In this episode of Question It., with its *Trigger Warning*, we use Google’s Notebook LM to review how a friend’s suicide impacted me and why Emotional Health—not Mental Health—could be the critical link society is missing. I reflect on the deeper emotional struggles that often go unnoticed and how our ability to give and receive love, connection, and belonging plays a crucial role in our well-being. By questioning conventional narratives around mental health, we explore how shifting the focus to Emotional Health could lead to real, lasting change.

Key Takeaway: Emotional Health—the ability to give and receive love, connection, and belonging—may be the missing link in preventing suicide and other destructive behaviors that society often mislabels as mental health issues.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Article:

• A Suicide Close To Home & A Plea – https://kevinrstrauss.com/a-suicide-close-to-home-and-a-plea/
• Can We Rethink Suicide – Before Someone We Love Is Next? | Ep. 34

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-35-AI

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. What specific actions or words from someone make you feel truly seen, heard, or valued in a conversation?
2. Can you recall a moment when someone you cared about made you feel judged or shamed? How did it impact your relationship?
3. What do you need in order to feel like you truly belong in a group or community, and how can you help others experience that same feeling?
4. What situations or behaviors trigger your emotions, and what do you think that reveals about your past experiences or unmet needs?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there.

Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

#suicide #SuicideAwareness #emotionalpain #ConnectionSavesLives #peace #love #connect #connection #belonging #questionit #podcast #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #spiritualhealth #relationships

In this episode of Question It., with its *Trigger Warning*, we are once again discussing suicide and the deep emotional pain that often drives people to it. I share a personal story about a childhood friend who died by suicide and explore the crucial distinction between mental health and emotional health. By understanding how unmet emotional needs shape our behaviors, we can shift our approach to well-being and connection. Join me in rethinking how we support ourselves and others in times of distress.

Key Takeaway: Understanding that emotional pain, not a broken brain, often drives destructive behaviors can help us foster deeper compassion, connection, and support for those struggling—and finally make significant progress toward preventing suicide.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Article: A Suicide Close To Home & A Plea

https://kevinrstrauss.com/a-suicide-close-to-home-and-a-plea/

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-34

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. When was the last time you felt truly heard and understood by someone? How did that make you feel?
2. What are some ways you’ve tried to cope with emotional pain, and how effective have they been for you?
3. How do you show love and connection to the people closest to you, and how do they show it to you in return?
4. What do you think it means to feel valued, and how can we help others feel more valued in their lives?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there.

Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

#suicide #SuicideAwareness #emotionalpain #ConnectionSavesLives #peace #love #connect #connection #belonging #questionit #podcast #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #spiritualhealth #relationships

In this episode of Question It., we’re using Google’s Notebook LM to review and summarize an article I wrote about elite athletes “cracking.” We discuss how their struggles are often misinterpreted as mental health problems or weaknesses, when in reality, they are symptoms of poor emotional health and unresolved emotional pain. It's not a breakdown or a sign of mental weakness, but rather a reflection of unmet emotional needs. Tune in to explore how reframing this understanding can provide better support for those who are perceived as having it all together.

Key Takeaway: The key takeaway is that elite athletes "cracking" is not a mental breakdown or weakness, but a symptom of unresolved emotional pain and poor emotional health, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of emotional well-being.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Article:

• When Compensatory Behaviors No Longer Work — The rise in “mental health” “cracking”. - https://fejguy.medium.com/when-compensatory-behaviors-no-longer-work-8084d8526b63
• Is the Pursuit of Greatness Crushing Us All? | Ep. 32

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-Ep33-AI

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. Does the idea of mental health "cracking" being rooted in unmet emotional health needs and not feeling loved resonate with you? Why or why not?
2. Do you believe that emotional health plays a role in your performance? If so, how?
3. Can you recall a time when you felt overwhelmed by the expectations of others? How did that affect your emotional well-being?
4. How do you distinguish between emotional pain and mental health issues in your own life or in others?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there.

Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

#mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #love #connection #belonging #relationships #QuestionIt #podcast #unconditionallove #simonebiles #naomiosaka #michaelphelps #tigerwoods #GOAT

In this episode of Question It., with its *Trigger Warning*, I explore how our drive for athletic success is often tied to a form of conditional love—seeking validation and worthiness through achievement. From elite athletes to kids in Little League, I examine how we use sports as a way to meet emotional health needs, striving to feel seen, accepted, and valued. But what if all we truly want is to be loved unconditionally, for who we are beyond our accomplishments? Join me as I question the cultural narratives around sports and consider a healthier path to fulfilling our deeper emotional needs.

Key Takeaway: Our pursuit of success in sports often reflects a deeper longing to be loved unconditionally by our parents, not for what we achieve, but simply for who we are.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Article: When Compensatory Behaviors No Longer Work — The rise in “mental health” “cracking”.

https://fejguy.medium.com/when-compensatory-behaviors-no-longer-work-8084d8526b63

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-Ep32

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. How do you think society's focus on achievement influences the way we seek love and validation?
2. Have you ever felt that your worth was tied to your performance in an activity? How did that impact you emotionally?
3. When was a time you felt truly loved for who you are, regardless of your achievements or abilities?
4. What messages about success and love do you think children pick up from watching their parents’ reactions to wins and losses?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there.

Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

#mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #love #connection #belonging #relationships #QuestionIt #podcast #unconditionallove #simonebiles #naomiosaka #michaelphelps #tigerwoods #GOAT

In this episode of Question It., with its **Trigger Warning**, we’re using Google’s Notebook LM to summarize and streamline a longer conversation I provided on a college student’s suicide note from 2018. We examine the devastating impact of early childhood environments and parental dynamics, which often shape the emotional foundations for disconnection and unmet needs. This conversation sheds light on the underlying issues contributing to such tragedies, offering valuable insights and an alternative perspective to deepen our understanding of emotional health. Join us for a compassionate and thought-provoking exploration of this critical topic.

Key Takeaway: The key takeaway from this episode is that nurturing emotional health through meaningful connections, supportive early childhood environments, and a belief in having purpose(s) (i.e. spiritual health) is essential to addressing the root cause of suicide and other destructive behaviors.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Video:

• John’s Suicide Note – He's Telling Us Why But Are We Listening? (a 2018 blog post)
• Why Would Someone Choose Suicide? | Ep. 30

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-Ep31-AI

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. When do you feel most at peace with yourself?
2. What’s one thing you believe gives your life meaning and gets you out of bed each day?
3. How do you cope with feelings of being misunderstood or disconnected?
4. What actions or behaviors make you feel truly supported by others?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there.

Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

#suicide #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #spiritualhealth #love #connection #belonging #relationships #QuestionIt #podcast #suicidenote

In this episode of Question It., with it’s **Trigger Warning** I delve into the deeply emotional and complex topic of uicide, exploring the question, 'Why would someone choose suicide?' I discuss the profound role that emotional pain, feeling unseen, and a lack of connection can play in driving such decisions. By examining these underlying factors, I aim to foster greater understanding and empathy around this sensitive issue. Join me as I share insights and reflections that encourage us to approach this topic with compassion and openness.

Key Takeaway: Emotional pain often stems from unmet needs for love, connection, and belonging, highlighting the critical distinction between emotional health and mental health in understanding and supporting those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts and other extreme behaviors, both destructive and constructive.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Video: John’s Suicide Note – He's Telling Us Why But Are We Listening?

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-Ep30

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. When was the last time you felt truly seen and heard by someone?
2. In what ways do the definitions shared in this episode regarding Emotional Health and Mental Health resonate with you? Or, do they not? Why?
3. What makes you feel most connected to others, even during difficult times?
4. In what ways can you increase the chances of someone you're engaging with feeling heard, understood, and valued?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there.

Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

#suicide #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #spiritualhealth #love #connection #belonging #relationships #QuestionIt #podcast #suicidenote

In this episode of Question It., we’re using Google’s Notebook LM, an advanced AI, to explore the root causes of joint pain, tendonitis, and "overuse" injuries. Learn how these often-overlooked trigger points are actually contracted or "knotted" muscle fibers that contribute to chronic discomfort and pain. Practical, at-home self-care techniques are shared to release knots and reduce or eliminate pain. From foam rolling tips to identifying key areas for relief, this episode provides actionable insights for managing pain and improving your body’s performance. Don’t miss this deep dive into taking control of your physical wellness!

Key Takeaway: The key to managing joint pain and "overuse" injuries lies in identifying and releasing knotted muscle fibers through simple, effective self-care techniques like foam rolling and targeted relief strategies.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Video: Joint Pain, Tendinitis, & “Overuse”?! What’s Really Happening? – https://youtu.be/ARk2BfGsrr4

Are We Wrong About Joint Pain & Tendinitis? Here's a Root Cause Solution. | Ep. 28

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-Ep29-AI

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. Have you experienced chronic joint pain or tendinitis? Describe your issue—how you tried to solve it, what worked, and what didn’t work.
2. If you saw a healthcare provider for your joint pain, what was their diagnosis and treatment plan?
3. Have you tried foam rolling consistently? What was the outcome?
4. In what ways did this episode's explanation of chronic joint pain and tendinitis resonate with you?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there. Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.

In this episode of Question It., we’re diving into the misconceptions surrounding joint pain and tendinitis, exploring why conventional approaches might be missing the mark. I unpack the surprising root causes behind these common issues and share practical, actionable insights to address them. If you’ve been struggling with chronic pain or recurring injuries, this episode will help you better understand what’s really going on in your body—and how you can take steps toward lasting relief. Tune in to discover a fresh perspective on healing and recovery.

Key Takeaway: Joint pain and tendinitis are often signs of deeper, overlooked issues, and addressing the root cause can lead to more effective and lasting solutions.

Peace. Love. Connect.

Links/References:

Original Source Video: Joint Pain, Tendinitis, & “Overuse”?! What’s Really Happening? – https://youtu.be/ARk2BfGsrr4

uchiTribe Episode Code: Request to join this episodes uchiTribe, for up to 4 weeks after this episode goes live, using the code: QI-Ep28

Here’s the Google Form: https://forms.gle/wgv8mUk8NU9DnHKcA

And a few sample questions we might discuss:

1. Have you experienced chronic joint pain or tendinitis? Describe your issue—how you tried to solve it, what worked, and what didn’t work.
2. If you saw a healthcare provider for your joint pain, what was their diagnosis and treatment plan?
3. Have you tried foam rolling consistently? What was the outcome?
4. In what ways did this episode's explanation of chronic joint pain and tendinitis resonate with you?

Contact Info:

Kevin’s social media is typically: @KevinRStrauss

Website: https://KevinRStrauss.com – Connect directly using the Contact Form there. Uchi: https://uchiconnection.com – Real conversations. Real connections.