The Force for Good cover art

The Force for Good

The Force for Good

Written by: Miller-Dwan Foundation
Listen for free

About this listen

The need for mental health solutions is greater than ever. The Force for Good is a podcast that breaks down topics related to our own mental health and the well-being of the communities we belong to and love. Episodes feature insightful conversations, personal experiences, expertise, and strategies covering a wide range of mental health themes. Tune in as host Rick Gertsema, Senior Mental Health Adviser at the Miller-Dwan Foundation, and his guests share transformative information that you can apply in your life.

2026 Miller-Dwan Foundation Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • Navigating Mental Health in the Military

    Navigating Mental Health in the Military
    Feb 5 2026

    In this episode of The Force for Good, Rick interviews Christopher Allen, a retired Army National Guard member with extensive experience in suicide prevention and mental health training. Christopher shares his journey from military service to his current role in integrated primary prevention, emphasizing the importance of teaching problem management skills to service members. The conversation explores the need for proactive training, the significance of in-person interactions, and the potential impact of Problem Management Plus (PM Plus) in addressing mental health challenges within the military community.
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • Mental Health Healing Doesn't Need to be Complicated

    Mental Health Healing Doesn't Need to be Complicated
    May 20 2025

    In this episode of The Force for Good, Rick Gertsema, along with Traci Marciniak and Dr. Adam Brown, discuss the importance of mental health awareness and the idea that healing does not need to be complicated. They explore personal experiences, the power of small habits, the significance of reciprocal relationships, and the role of environment in mental health care. The conversation emphasizes the need for kindness towards oneself and the importance of reaching out to others for support.

    Chapters
    00:00 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
    01:08 Healing Doesn't Need to Be Complicated
    04:50 The Power of Small Habits
    10:45 Reciprocal Relationships and Support
    17:08 Making Mental Health Care Accessible
    21:56 The Role of Environment in Healing
    25:02 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    www.mdfoundation.org
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • From Struggle to Strength: The Power of Peer Support

    From Struggle to Strength: The Power of Peer Support
    Dec 23 2025

    In this compelling episode of "The Force for Good," we sit down with Chrissy Barnard, a dedicated mental health advocate and peer support specialist. Chrissy shares her personal journey from overcoming mental health struggles to becoming a beacon of hope and recovery for others. Discover how her lived experiences have shaped her role as the Executive Director of NAMI Lake Superior South Shore and her impactful work with Hope Haven. Join us as we explore the transformative power of peer support and the initiatives driving change in mental health advocacy. Tune in to be inspired by stories of resilience, hope, and the relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow.

    www.mdfoundation.org
    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
No reviews yet