Jim and Andi discuss the Gold Sauce at the Golden Arches and the Gold Standard mentioned int he new SAMHSA Priorities.

Host and executive director, Jim Hajny, speaks with special guest Heidi, a peer supporter, wife, daughter, sister, stepmom, friend, and mother to three girls. Having met Jim through peer support training, Heidi joins the podcast to share her courageous story of mental health recovery.

Join Executive Director Jim Hajny as he welcomes a Lucie Bruno. Lucie is the director of the Strength Found program, which provides crucial support to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). She is also a peer mentor for the Ethical Peer Support (EPS) training, operating out of Ottawa, Canada. In this essential discussion, Jim and Lucie address why the topic of CSA remains often "taboo," despite its prevalence and widespread impact on individuals' lifetimes, often leading to mental health issues, substance use, and failed relationships. Lucie shares her passion for peer support and details the successful, peer-led Strength Found program.

Erin Olson, CBHPSS at St. Peter's in Helena, MT joins Jim for a discussion of leadership and recovery month activities. He is also the president of NAMI Helena, Vice chair of Lewis and Clark County Local Advisory Council, NAMI Montana Board Member, and CIT trainer.

Misti Johnston, Drop in Center Director at the Butte, MT Rescue Mission sits down with Jim to discuss recovery and more.

Peer leader April Seat shares her mental health struggles in a very candid and honest conversation with Jim.

In this episode of Recovery Talks, Jim Hajny sits down with long-time friend and guest Todd Tecca to discuss how they manage their mental health and stay well during tough times. They reflect on personal experiences with mental health diagnoses, share daily wellness practices, talk about the power of supportive relationships, and highlight the importance of education, routine, and community support. As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, this honest and heartfelt conversation offers valuable insights for anyone on a recovery journey.

In this episode, Jim and April delve into the federal funding freeze executive order issued in January 2025 and its ramifications for grantees and contractors. They discuss how this sudden policy shift has impacted organizations reliant on federal grants, particularly those in Montana's behavioral health and recovery sectors. The conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by nonprofits and service providers amid the freeze, including funding uncertainties and operational disruptions. Listeners will gain insight into the broader implications of federal policy changes on local communities and the importance of advocacy and resilience in navigating such challenges.

In this episode, Jim and April explore the essential skills and qualities necessary to become an effective peer supporter. They discuss the importance of lived experience, active listening, empathy, and maintaining healthy boundaries in peer support roles. The conversation also touches on the training and certification processes, such as Montana's Peer Support 101 program, and the personal and professional growth opportunities that come with supporting others on their recovery journeys. Whether you're considering a role in peer support or seeking to enhance your existing skills, this episode offers valuable insights into the responsibilities and rewards of being a peer supporter.

Lawrence Rhone, Project Manager with Farmer Veteran Coalition National, talks about his unique project in north eastern Montana. This project strives to help veterans access agricultural resources through resiliency training, classroom and field instruction, and connection to regional resources and funding. Farmer Veteran Coalition https://farmvetco.org/ Program Article https://farmvetco.org/2024/07/30/program-to-provide-holistic-approach-skills-to-farming/ Application Form https://qr.mtpeernetwork.org/g/2fFLMEc5uJR

Nikki and Jim provide an update on community organizing which leads to an in depth conversation about recovery language.

Jim and special guest Sami share their experiences with mental health crisis, the aftermath, what helped and how others can support.

Beth, Kayla, and Jim share their takeaways from our trip to Chicago for the Federation of Families Conference.

Lea talks to Ryan Jackson who offers Wellbriety from the 8th Judicial Veterans Court Program. Ryan has been involved in the criminal justice system and found purpose through offering a support group at Rocky Mountain Treatment Center.

Lea and Jim share their experiences as advocates and the challenges we often do not talk about. Everyone wants to be an advocate but very few are willing to work towards solutions.

Jim and Kayla talk about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in honor of ADHD Awareness month. Kayla shares her experiences with ADHD including how she copes what it looks and feels like.

Jim, Andi, and Beth share their experienced with depression diagnoses, how they affected their lives, and how they manage their symptoms.

Jim talks to Kayla and Beth about their experiences navigating the systems in Montana for children and youth with special health care needs.

Jim introduces our new podcast format. We will be increasing our podcast episodes and discussing current events to keep you informed of what is happening in the world of recovery and peer support!

MPN plays an important role in the state funded Drop in Centers. Lea and Jim discuss the history and development of DICs along with a vision of the future.