Sometimes, the most powerful words are the simplest. In this deeply human episode, Will Wagner shares how small mindset shifts, support systems, and honest conversations helped him rebuild his life after a suicide attempt. This is more than a podcast—it’s a reminder that even in your darkest moments, your story isn’t over.

This episode features a compelling dialogue with Will Wagner, a master electrician and suicide attempt survivor, who shares his harrowing yet inspiring journey through mental health struggles. Wagner's narrative is a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay between personal hardship and societal expect...

A New Approach to Helping Veterans Thrive

In this episode of One Minute Can Save a Life, Dr. Julie Elledge shares how coaching—not therapy—can unlock motivation, resilience, and performance for veterans and their families. Drawing on decades of experience as a therapist and master certified coach, she explains how programs like Veterans Talking to Veterans empower veterans to support one another and build community-based solutions to mental health and life challenges.

Takeaways:

The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between therapy and coaching, particularly in the context of mental health supp...

Carrie Bullock shares how one of the most painful periods of her life became the foundation for a deeper sense of purpose. In this episode, she reflects on her journey through suicidal ideation, treatment, and recovery—and how restoration didn’t come from erasing the past, but from learning how to live alongside it with support and intention.

This conversation centers on hope, resilience, and the power of using lived experience to help others. If you’ve ever wondered whether your hardest moments could still lead to something meaningful, this episode offers a reminder that restoration is possib...

In this powerful episode of One Minute Can Save A Life, Dr. Kent Corso speaks with Dr. Silas Sessions, Executive Director of the Kentucky Office of Veteran Services, about the critical intersection of faith, veteran mental health, and suicide prevention. The conversation explores how faith communities, public policy, and clinical resources can work together to support veterans, reduce suicide risk, and strengthen protective factors across communities. This episode offers meaningful insight for veterans, faith leaders, clinicians, and anyone committed to saving lives.

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Takeaways:

In this podcast episode, we...

Author and seasoned clinician Brittany Bennett joins Dr. Kent Corso to break down common difficulties like depression, explaining how to recognize when life transitions, emotional strain, or prolonged discomfort may signal a need for professional support. They discuss novel approaches to seeking help, including the decision-making process and gaining support from those who are not our closest loved ones. Together, they explore mental health from the frontlines where Brittany has worked as a licensed mental health counselor for over a decade. Finally, they crack the door on a critical issue regarding isolation and mental health, and truly reinforce the...

As we reflect on the past year's programs, we recognize the positive impact of community-driven efforts and the necessity of fostering connectedness among individuals, especially during the holiday season, which can evoke feelings of isolation for many. Our esteemed guest, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, revisits the ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing behavioral health challenges in the state, particularly in light of recent observations during Suicide Prevention Month.

Takeaways:

Governor Mark Gordon emphasizes the importance of community connection in preventing suicide, especially during difficult times of the year. The state of Wyoming has implemented various initiatives to...

In this episode of One Minute Can Save a Life, Marlene and Debbie speak from the heart about the profound loss of their children to suicide. Through their stories, they reveal the raw realities of grief and the strength it takes to keep moving forward.

Together, they reflect on the signs they wish they had recognized, the importance of open conversations about mental health, and the power of community in breaking the silence surrounding suicide. Their courage to speak out offers comfort to those who are grieving and inspiration to those seeking to make a difference.

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Dr. Kent Corso speaks with Amber, a suicide loss survivor, about the importance of open dialogue surrounding mental health and suicide. She opens up about her profound sense of loss and her post traumatic growth after her son Teagan's suicide in 2021.

Amber shares her the details of her own journey for healing following the tragic death of her son. She introduces the concepts of ‘clean grief’ and ‘messy grief,’ providing listeners with a framework to understand the different facets of their emotional experiences and suggesting how they might consider coping with it. Her journey underscores the importance of manag...

In this enlightening discussion, Jason Lux, the Wyoming Injury and Violence Prevention Program manager, elucidates the multifaceted state-wide efforts for suicide prevention and intervention.

 

Jason emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and actionable strategies to combat this crisis. He discusses the significance of evidence-based practices in suicide prevention, distinguishing between general awareness of suicide and the implementation of structured intervention strategies.

Takeaways:

The importance of understanding both intentional and unintentional injuries in suicide prevention has been emphasized during our discussions. Our guest, Jason Lux, highlighted how community efforts in Wyoming are diverse a...

In a deeply impactful conversation, Dr. Kent Corso and Ashley Bright examine the critical intersection of youth mental health, community resources, and suicide prevention in Central Wyoming. Bright, with his extensive background in youth programs, discusses the alarming trends in mental health diagnoses among adolescents, attributing increased rates of anxiety and depression to various societal factors, including the influence of social media. Central to their discussion is the Boys and Girls Club's holistic approach, which integrates mental health resources directly into their programming, thereby reducing barriers to access for vulnerable youth. Bright emphasizes the importance of engaging young people...

Takeaways:

The role of a superintendent encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, similar to that of a CEO overseeing district operations. Mental health issues within the school system have gained more attention since the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for open discussions. Stigma surrounding mental health remains a significant barrier to accessing support and resources in educational settings. Parents must prioritize their mental health in order to effectively support their children through various challenges they may face. Community involvement is crucial in addressing mental health, as it is a collective responsibility rather than solely the schools' duty. Providing...

The conversation delves into the intricate relationship between law enforcement and mental health, particularly in the context of suicide prevention. Sheriff Brookwell's extensive experience in the Washakie County Sheriff’s Office provides a rich backdrop for the exploration of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers when confronted with individuals in suicidal crises.

Takeaways:

The episode emphasizes the importance of open dialogue regarding mental health and suicide prevention. Sheriff Austin Brookwell shares insights from his personal and professional experiences with suicide crises. Training for law enforcement is crucial in addressing suicidal individuals and enhancing response effectiveness. Th...

This podcast episode features a profound dialogue with Kimberly, a courageous survivor of a suicide attempt. Her narrative illuminates the stark reality that suicidal thoughts can afflict anyone, regardless of their mental health history or life circumstances. We delve into the intricate layers of her experiences, revealing the interplay of personal hardship, societal expectations, and the vital importance of connection and support during times of despair. Kimberly articulates the necessity of compassion—both toward oneself and others—as a means to navigate the complexities of mental health struggles. Ultimately, this episode serves as a poignant reminder that no feeling is p...

The intricacies of mental health policy and community engagement come to the forefront in a profound discussion with Fred Baldwin, a former Wyoming State Senator with a rich background in both healthcare and public service. Baldwin's insights regarding the legislative landscape surrounding mental health reveal a complex interplay between political will, funding, and community needs. He articulates the challenges faced by rural areas, particularly the limited availability of mental health professionals, which necessitates a reliance on primary care providers who often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health crises. This reliance underscores the critical...

Jen Davis from Governor Gordon's office discusses the critical intersection of mental health and policy in Wyoming, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in addressing issues like loneliness, disconnection, and high suicide rates. With a background in physical therapy, Jen shares how her experiences led her to focus on systemic change and behavioral health initiatives. She highlights the collaborative efforts between state agencies, the legislative body, and the judiciary to create effective solutions, such as the behavioral health diversion court aimed at supporting individuals with chronic mental health conditions. The conversation also touches on the challenges presented by the...

This podcast episode features an impactful conversation with Jenny Hunter, a suicide loss survivor and the founder of JR's Hunt for Life. Jenny shares her journey following the tragic loss of her son, who ended his life in 2015, highlighting her commitment to supporting others affected by suicide. The episode emphasizes the importance of connectedness and open dialogue about mental health, challenging the stigma surrounding discussions of suicide. Jenny's grassroots efforts have fostered a supportive community that encourages people to ask direct questions about suicidal thoughts, reinforcing that hope can be a powerful antidote to despair. Listeners are reminded that...

Mental health and suicide prevention are critical issues that resonate deeply within communities, particularly in Wyoming, which has faced alarming rates of suicide for years. Governor Gordon shares his personal experiences and the importance of connecting with friends and family during times of hardship, especially if people are disinclined to seek professional help. He highlights the need for cultural change in how we perceive mental health, moving away from stigma and towards a more supportive environment where seeking help is normalized. He wraps up with a message about how the holidays are a time for widespread celebration, but many p...

Tina and Madelyn share their poignant and personal experiences of losing a loved one to suicide, highlighting the complexities of grief and the stigma surrounding mental health professionals. Tina's partner, James, a mental health professional, took his own life without clear signs of distress, challenging the common belief that those who die by suicide always exhibit warning signs. The discussion delves into the isolating nature of grief for suicide survivors, particularly in small communities, where stigma can prevent open conversations about loss and mental health. Both guests emphasize the importance of acknowledging the deceased's life and struggles, rather than...

This podcast episode features a crucial conversation about the pressing issue of suicide in Rock Springs, Wyoming, led by host Dr. Kent Corso and Mayor Max Mickelson. Mayor Mickelson shares his insights on the alarming suicide rates in his community, emphasizing that many individuals who take their own lives often appear to be thriving, challenging common misconceptions about warning signs. The discussion reveals the complexities of mental health, particularly how societal pressures and expectations contribute to the suicide crisis among affluent youth. Highlights include the importance of community connectedness and proactive measures to support individuals struggling with mental health...

From Investigation to Prevention Coroner James Whipps on Reducing Suicide Rates

In this episode, Natrona County Coroner James Whipps discusses his background and role in investigating deaths, with a special emphasis on suicide prevention. He shares insights into the frequency and preventability of suicides in his community, underlining the importance of public awareness, early intervention, and community involvement. Whipps elaborates on signs and symptoms of suicidal tendencies, emphasizing the need for education and proactive measures to reduce suicide rates. He also describes his involvement in various task forces aiming to mitigate preventable deaths and highlights the shift...

Empowering Communities: The PROSPER Approach to Suicide Prevention

Welcome to our dedicated space where we explore innovative and community-focused strategies for reducing suicide risk. In this blog post, we'll dive into the profound work of PROSPER, a program designed by Dr. Kent Corso, a clinical psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst, and suicidologist. Learn how PROSPER is transforming how communities address suicide prevention, focusing on long-term, sustainable solutions rather than fear-based, short-term measures.

About Dr. Kent Corso and PROSPER

Hi, my name is Kent Corso. I'm a clinical psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst, and suicidologist. I...

A Conversation with Director Darin Westby: Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace

In this episode of 'One Minute Can Save a Life,' host Kent Corso speaks with Darin Westby, Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation, about the importance of addressing mental health and suicide prevention in the workplace. Westby shares the recent tragedy of a suicide within his organization and the ensuing initiatives, such as the 'Everybody Needs a Pickup Man' campaign in Cheyenne and the Wyoming Contractors Association's yellow feather stickers, aimed at raising awareness and providing support. They discuss the significance of aligning...