In this episode of Through the Mental Lens, we explore what it really means to advocate for mental health in the workplace — and why it doesn’t require a title, a budget, or an HR mandate.

From breaking stigma through everyday conversations to being a “sign-poster” who connects colleagues with resources, small actions can spark ripple effects that transform workplace culture. We’ll dive into practical tools like micro-initiatives, active listening, and even policy nudges that make support structural, not optional.

You’ll also hear real-world stories — from anonymous “three kind words” programs to walk-and-talk meetings — that prove advocacy is less about grand gestures and more about human connection.

By the end, you’ll see how a single sentence, resource shared, or moment of listening can create workplaces where people don’t just survive, they thrive.

Want more on this? Check out my blog post Mental Health Advocacy in the Workplace where I unpack this idea with additional details and resources.

And if you want to take this further, don’t miss the free companion toolkit — packed with scripts, micro-initiatives, and examples you can put into action right away. Sign up for The Mental Lens newsletter, and you’ll get the toolkit delivered right to your inbox.

If you are looking for more information on mental health, check out our Mental Health Resources page.

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⚠️ Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a licensed professional if you need support.

It’s 2 a.m. and you can’t sleep. Instead of calling a friend or waiting weeks for a therapy appointment, you open an app. A friendly chatbot greets you by name and asks, “What’s on your mind?”

For millions of people, this isn’t science fiction, it’s everyday life. AI mental health tools like Woebot, Wysa, and Replika are becoming companions, coaches, and for some, what they actually call their “therapists.”

In this episode, Chris explores the rise of AI in mental health:

• What these tools actually are
• Why people are turning to them—from cost to accessibility to companionship
• The risks, limitations, and ethical questions we can’t ignore
• How AI might fit alongside—not replace—human therapists

Along the way, Chris shares his own story of resisting therapy, why these tools might have helped him start sooner, and what “bridges” like chatbots could mean for the future of mental health.

Because while AI can offer support, empathy still belongs to humans.

Want more on this? Check out my blog post Is AI My Therapist Now? where I unpack this idea with additional details and resources.

If you are looking for more information on mental health, check out our Mental Health Resources page.

Follow and subscribe on Apple podcasts, Spotify, or whever you get your podcasts!

Dive deeper and subscribe to the newsletter at The Mental Lens.
Free tools | Simple insights | 15% off your first order at The Mental Lens Store |
Zero overwhelm

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⚠️ Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a licensed professional if you need support.

Are you stuck in the endless loop of “just one more edit”? You’re not alone. In this episode of Through the Mental Lens, Chris digs into the hidden costs of perfectionism: why it keeps us stuck, how AI can make it worse, and what self-compassion can do to set us free.

From a five-year cookbook that’s still simmering, to lessons learned building a website, Chris shares personal stories, practical tools, and even conversations with his 8-year-old about why the world’s greatest athletes lose — a lot.

You’ll learn how to:

• Spot perfectionism when it’s holding you back
• Reframe your inner critic with self-kindness
• Use simple exercises like the “80% Rule” and “AI Timeboxing” to move forward
• Embrace the mindset of progress, not perfection

Because you deserve to do good work — and feel good about it — without chasing flawless.

Want more on this? Check out my blog post Break Free From Perfectionism: Embrace Self-Kindness And Flourish where I unpack this idea with additional details and resources.

If you are looking for more information on mental health, check out our Mental Health Resources page.

Follow and subscribe on Apple podcasts, Spotify, or whever you get your podcasts!

Dive deeper and subscribe to the newsletter at The Mental Lens.
Free tools | Simple insights | 15% off your first order at The Mental Lens Store |
Zero overwhelm

Join our Facebook community

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a licensed professional if you need support.