There’s something deeply profound about the human spirit’s resilience.

Many people who’ve endured the darkest parts of life—struggling with suicidal thoughts or attempts, addiction, anxiety, depression, or self-harm—often find themselves driven to give back once they’ve emerged from their own battles. It’s as if, through their pain, they discover a deeper purpose: to help others avoid or heal faster from the struggles they’ve faced.

Take my friend Susan Stewart, (author, speaker and comedian) for example. In the Summer of 2023, she experienced a crisis that nearly consumed her. Susan found help. But instead of retreating further into the shadows, Susan (with help) chose to transform her pain into purpose. She spent all of 2024 touring with a mental health-focused comedy show, using humor to connect, heal, and educate others about the importance of mental well-being.

And then there’s Woody, a first-time guest on this year’s Kickback Marathon. His story is one of raw honesty and courage. Woody hit rock bottom because of his addiction, but as soon as he began his journey to sobriety, he knew that sharing his story could be part of his recovery. He wanted others to hear that recovery is possible, to inspire hope where despair once reigned.

These are not isolated examples.

At Kickback, we’ve been privileged to host countless guests who have shared their personal mental health journeys for the first time. Many have never spoken about their struggles publicly before. Their bravery is nothing short of remarkable. To be so vulnerable, to feel so deeply, and then to open up in hopes that it might prevent someone else from suffering—it’s an act of both healing and profound generosity.

But why share?

Is it part of the healing process?

We believe so.

There’s something deeply cathartic in giving voice to your pain and knowing that by doing so, you might be helping someone else feel less alone. Sharing a personal story allows others to see that they are not the only ones who feel broken, who have faced overwhelming darkness, or who have struggled to see a way out. It creates a bond—a shared humanity—and that connection can be a lifeline.

At Kickback, we created this platform to start important conversations.

Our mission is simple: to break the stigmas that surround mental illness and to create a safe space where we can talk openly about the challenges we face. When we shed the shame and silence, we make room for healing—for ourselves and for others.

If you’re struggling right now, know that you’re not alone. There’s strength in sharing, and there’s even more strength in seeking help.

Whether it’s through a friend, a therapist, a community, or a support group, healing begins when we reach out.

Sharing your story could save a life—perhaps even your own.

- Ben

Photo : Susan and Ben at Roger’s TV January 2024