Stay ConnectedEveryone has a story. Every story matters. And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply show up.
Hosted by Dwayne Morton, ShowUp2Heal™ explores resilience, mental health, personal growth, identity, purpose, and the power of healing through authentic conversations.
From thought leaders and entrepreneurs to athletes, coaches, and everyday people, our guests share powerful stories of adversity, transformation, and what it means to move forward with intention.
In this episode, Dwayne Morton sits down with James Fernandez—retired juvenile justice officer, AI systems architect, and mental health advocate—to discuss the core issues facing men's mental health today. Together, they explore systems of support, the importance of purpose and belonging, and innovative approaches to raising awareness and reducing suicide rates among youth and men.In this episode:The impact of systemic failure and how it affects youth mental health Commonalities found in at-risk youth and the importance of purpose and identityThe critical role of awareness, education, and responsible leadership in mental health How Utah succeeded in lowering youth suicide and what it reveals about community intervention Practical strategies for adults to influence young men's lives positively The significance of community, belonging, and self-awareness in healing The power of affirmations and ongoing self-talk in mental resilience Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and the purpose of the conversation00:31 - James Fernandez’s background and diverse hats01:14 - The importance of mental health awareness and systemic support03:49 - Common issues faced by youth in juvenile justice systems05:18 - What our current efforts in men's mental health are doing right—or missing10:37 - The pervasive impact of systemic flaws on at-risk youth12:52 - Commonalities among at-risk youth and the need for purpose and identity14:24 - Addressing the overmedication of youth and the need for solutions16:13 - Leadership responsibilities and mentorship opportunities22:35 - Utah’s success story in reducing youth suicide and lessons learned27:04 - Belonging, purpose, and addressing root causes of risky behaviors28:42 - The role of affirmations and ongoing self-talk in mental resilienceResources & Links:https://www.linkedin.com/company/affi...Connect with James Fernandez: / jim-hernandez-34484053
In this intimate conversation, Dwayne Morton and Joseph Cope explore healing, purpose, empathy, masculinity, integrity, and the power of creating space for other people. Timestamps0:00 — The conversation opens with gratitude and the start of the live interview1:05 — Dwayne introduces Joseph and frames the episode around men's mental health2:36 — Joseph reflects on the introduction and the meaning of being invited onto the show3:35 — Joseph explains how he became "the empathy guy" and the difference between empathy and sympathy5:31 — Dwayne asks what men's mental health is doing well, what's missing, and what needs to improve6:05 — Joseph says awareness is coming to the surface in men's mental health6:59 — Joseph says men need greater access to healthy masculine and feminine energy8:00 — Joseph explains why men need intentional connection with other men, without an agenda9:17 — Dwayne asks about receiving energy work and openness to new healing modalities9:46 — Joseph shares how he initially approached energy work from an intellectual perspective10:27 — Dwayne talks about staying open when you don't have the answer10:56 — They discuss divine timing, divine purpose, and balanced energy11:31 — Joseph reflects on identity, masks, and how energy work creates space beyond binary thinking12:25 — Joseph says it's not masculine or feminine—it's masculine and feminine13:13 — Dwayne explains his "lion" energy and how true strength doesn't require constant display14:05 — Joseph introduces Marianne Williamson's quote about fear and light15:39 — Dwayne reflects on the quote and the journaling practice behind it16:36 — Dwayne shares his healing journey through Reiki and other energy modalities17:05 — He tells the story of knee pain disappearing during a Zoom healing session18:03 — Dwayne emphasizes application, trust, and not needing to understand every "how"18:20 — Joseph admits he sometimes struggles to trust what works for others19:19 — Joseph talks about autonomy, faith, and learning to trust more fully20:29 — Dwayne closes the live conversation by discussing curiosity, allowing, and manifestation20:45 — The conversation continues after the live broadcast in a more personal podcast setting21:00 — Dwayne shares his daily foundations: gratitude, self-care, movement, and adaptability22:24 — Dwayne tells the story of his rare blood cancer diagnosis and the traumatic police shooting that impacted him and his family23:41 — He explains the medical misdiagnosis that ultimately led to discovering severe sleep apnea24:32 — Dwayne describes realizing he still had a purpose and a reason to keep going25:32 — He talks about being a former international basketball player and a speaker with a message to share27:32 — Joseph explains purpose and how our greatest gifts are revealed through life experience29:30 — Dwayne reframes his role as someone who facilitates lessons rather than teaches them30:24 — The conversation shifts from rejection to redirection32:10 — Joseph shares his perspective on rejection, value, and collecting the "receipts" from every no35:52 — Dwayne defines the values that guide his life: authenticity, integrity, justice, honesty, and confronting hypocrisy36:18 — Dwayne explains integrity as doing the right thing regardless of the outcome36:58 — Joseph introduces a broader framework: integrity as becoming the whole version of yourself38:48 — Dwayne describes himself as a resilience integrity coach40:24 — Joseph reflects on Martha Beck's The Way of Integrity and how it reshaped his understanding of values40:55 — Joseph defines curiosity as "wonder with awe and without judgment"Resources & Links:https://empathyguy.com/TEDx Talk • Lead from the heart without being last | J... Connect with Joseph Cope:IG: the.empathy.guy
In this episode, Dwayne opens up about his personal journey of transparency, struggles, and the power of showing up authentically to foster healing and connection with his co-hosts Kat Anna and Sarah Elkins.Main Topics:The importance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership and personal growthLessons learned from interviews with Frank King, Jimmy Carter, David Chametzky, and othersThe significance of strong support systems and healthy relationshipsHow resilience manifests in quiet, persistent actions rather than loud victoriesThe role of divine timing and divine support in personal and collective healingPractical steps for turning awareness into meaningful actionThe power of consistency, self-accountability, and self-care in sustaining momentumManaging nervous system regulation through breathwork and mental resilienceReflections on past limitations and embracing evolution, especially in the context of men's mental healthTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and personal reflections on a powerful week of conversations02:50 - Introduction to guests and the intention behind the series03:12 - Key lessons from Frank King on humor in addressing trauma04:37 - Frank King's raw honesty on mental health and suicide prevention06:47 - Learning from Jimmy Carter’s shift to nervous system-focused training09:04 - Parallels between Jimmy Carter’s evolution and personal growth11:28 - Reflecting on the power of shared struggles and healing journeys13:37 - Hosting oneself: lessons from interviewing himself and embracing transparency16:25 - The hardest truths uncovered and personal growth through vulnerability19:08 - The importance of support systems, love, and moving beyond ego21:28 - The journey from diagnosis to resilience with sleep apnea insights23:20 - Lessons from veteran James Land and the importance of perseverance27:38 - The significance of community and strong partnerships in transformation30:37 - Recognizing the evolution of men and the hope in vulnerability35:15 - The impact of breathwork on nervous system regulation and PTSD recovery37:09 - Connecting apnea and breathwork for holistic healing40:32 - The importance of creating crutch-free solutions, not just quick fixes43:54 - The role of inner strength and resilience in overcoming adversity46:36 - Celebrating powerful, supportive relationships in sport and life50:24 - Men's willingness to face adversity head-on and collective growth54:58 - The shift from hustle to sustainable self-care and awareness58:34 - Embracing transparency, resistance, and divine support on the journey61:27 - Reflection on the initial vision vs. the growth experienced through vulnerability64:24 - The growing hope for men's mental health and breaking stigma68:14 - Momentum as a key to sustaining collective and personal change71:29 - Turning awareness into action: practical next steps74:20 - Closing gratitude and commitment to continuing the conversationReflection & Action:This episode invites you to reflect on how vulnerability and consistent action are the true markers of strength. As Dwayne emphasizes, transformation begins when we tell the truth and show up wholeheartedly, trusting divine timing and support. The journey of healing is ongoing—and it’s shaped by patience, presence, and purpose.—Remember, winning isn’t defeating others; it’s about becoming fully present to your own life.Resources & Links:Connect with Dwayne: / dwaynemorton / dwmorton24 IG: showup2win
In this heartfelt conversation, Dwayne Morton sits down with Ilya Khazov, a Guinness World Record-holding strongman, entrepreneur, and inspiring example of resilience. They explore the mental and physical challenges faced by athletes and everyday people alike, emphasizing the importance of community, purpose, and shifting mindset through adversity.Key Topics:Ilya Khazov shares his journey from injury to record-breaking featsThe role of mentorship in resilience and recoveryHow having a plan and community fuels mental health and physical successThe importance of purpose and presence in overcoming setbacksInsights into leadership and inspiring others through sport and lifeThe significance of vulnerability and authenticity in true strengthTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: The power of presence in resilience01:25 - Meeting Ilya Khazov: From childhood friends to record holder02:13 - Ilya’s professional background and journey in strength sports03:23 - Lessons learned from adversity and injury04:31 - Addressing men’s mental health: What’s working and what’s missing05:42 - The importance of a plan and community in recovery06:48 - How mentorship shapes resilience and mindset07:41 - Overcoming medical setbacks: A pulmonary embolism story09:30 - Building strength from within: The mental game of lifting10:53 - The power of belief and setting exciting goals12:23 - The role of effort and intensity over weight lifted14:02 - The impact of support systems and accountability16:17 - Breaking limitations through mental resilience and science17:30 - Achieving the impossible: World records and pushing boundaries18:57 - The discipline of mental health and handling setbacks20:45 - Cultivating brotherhood and supportive relationships21:51 - Balancing personal life, sport, and shared responsibility23:21 - Leading by example: Inspiring other athletes and the next generation26:20 - Turning setbacks into opportunities: From injury to organizing competitions28:29 - Reflecting on future growth and advice for younger self29:37 - The importance of dreaming as a child and passing on that legacy30:19 - Connecting with Ilya: Upcoming events and how to follow his journeyResources & Links:Strongman Champions Leaguehttps://strongmancl.com/Connect with Ilya:IG: iliakhazov.strongman / ilya.khazov.cy Upcoming Events:Strongman Champions League - Sandusky, Ohio (Labor Day weekend)Strongman Champions League - Lake City, Florida (October 10th)
In this episode, James Land shares his journey from military service to founding a thriving gym community dedicated to mental health, leadership, and resilience. We explore the importance of community support, adaptable leadership, and integrating faith and daily routines for mental wellbeing.Key topics:The evolution of men's mental health awareness and bridging the gap in supportHow military experience influences leadership and mental health approachesThe role of community and brotherhood in healing and resilienceThe mental health challenges faced by veterans and transitioning out of the militaryThe powerful impact of fitness, hobbies, and routines on mental healthServant leadership as a core philosophy in community buildingPersonal stories of overcoming adversity and supporting others through traumaPractical tools for slowing down, gratitude, and communication in daily lifeThe importance of a faith-driven approach and morning routines for mental resilienceThe vision for expanding community support through gyms and mentorshipTimestamps:(00:00) - Introduction to James Land and his background(02:23) - Military roots shaping leadership and routines(03:36) - Common gaps in men's mental health awareness(04:52) - The importance of community, brotherhood, and peer support(05:22) - Veteran perspective on mental health challenges(06:54) - Transition struggles and finding purpose through fitness(08:15) - The pressure of leadership and mental health(09:20) - How James found his passion for fitness and community(11:41) - The therapeutic role of gyms and hobbies in mental health(13:25) - Building community out of military kinship(16:40) - Supporting others through adversity, like grief(18:24) - The role of spouses and loved ones in mental health journeys(20:44) - Approaches to supporting men and reading people’s needs(23:00) - Self-care routines when slipping into low mental states(25:14) - Daily faith routines and boundaries for resilience(27:49) - James’ plans for future podcasting and community expansion(30:26) - Final thoughts: the journey of healing and serviceResources & Links:https://www.setsbuilt.com/locations/t...Connect with James Land:IG: just_james_82
In this episode, Dwayne Morton sits down with Leland Holgate Sr. for a powerful conversation about men’s mental health, nervous system regulation, breathwork, and the journey from survival to self-leadership. Leland shares how military training, a broken neck, addiction, and eventual healing shaped the work he teaches today through the Willful Warrior and the Welcome Home Method.Key Topics:Why men’s mental health conversations matter nowThe role of competition, brotherhood, and trust in healingHow a broken neck led Leland to breathwork and nervous system regulationThe difference between pushing through and regulating the bodyAddiction, hitting bottom, and the long road back to wholenessVictim mentality, observer mindset, and metacognitionWhy surrender can create real changeHow breath connects the body, mind, and experienceWhere to find Leland’s work and free resourcesNotable TakeawaysAwareness is growing, but men still need more spaces for honest conversation.Breath is a direct path to regulating the nervous system.Feeling anger or grief is not weakness; it can be part of the healing process.The observer role helps people step back and choose aligned action.True transformation comes from working with the whole person, not just the body.Resources & Links: / @thewillfulwarrior Free ebook and free breathwork practices available on the websitethewillfulwarrior.comConnect withLeland Holgate Sr.: / leland-holgate-sr-b5214ba2 IG: thewillfulwarrior / leland.holgate
In this heartfelt conversation, Dwayne Morton hosts David Chametzky to explore the power of vulnerability, community, and purpose in mental health, leadership, and personal transformation. Together, they discuss how authentic presence and impactful storytelling can inspire healing, resilience, and meaningful connection in men’s lives and beyond.Key topics:The significance of making space for honesty and vulnerability in storytellingHow community and brotherhood support men’s mental health and impact personal growthThe ripple effect of impactful storytelling and TEDx experiencesPractical analogies, like open windows, to understand resilience and mental wellnessThe role of shared identity—sports, Brotherhood, or unique personal traits—in fostering belongingThe importance of authenticity over perfectionism in leadership and healingHow personal stories contribute to mental health awareness and impact livesThe transformational power of impactful conversations and intentional presenceThe journey of health, from a heart stent to renewed purpose and balanceBuilding supportive environments for men to thrive without hiding their truthsTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Making space for honest conversations00:42 – The purpose behind impactful storytelling and leadership01:46 – The importance of community and brotherhood for mental health03:30 – How TEDx changed perspectives and created ripple effects04:54 – Analogies for resilience and mental wellness: Opening windows06:17 – The value of authentic relationships in healing07:46 – Brotherhood's role in mental health and impact of shared experiences09:21 – Building safe spaces: Impact and belonging through community11:19 – The significance of trust, authenticity, and shared identity13:11 – The power of disagreement and diverse perspectives in growth15:31 – Personal meaning behind the number 18 and life’s significance19:24 – The impact of supporting others through platforms like TEDx21:34 – How storytelling helps with healing and mental health breakthroughs24:52 – Transforming narratives into generational wisdom and impact28:03 – Recent health journey and the importance of checking in on wellness28:54 – Vision for the next six months: Purpose, impact, and balance30:32 – Closing thoughts: Embracing presence, purpose, and authentic connectionResources & Links:Peace, Love, and Bring A Bat Podcast • Peace Love and Bring a Bat - podcast Connect with David:IG: davidchametzky / david-chametzky-a933b32 / david.chametzky
In this episode of ShowUp2Heal, Dwayne Morton talks with Jeff Pearson about men’s mental health, invisible conditions, resilience, faith, and the importance of community and self-advocacy. Jeff shares powerful lessons from living with hydrocephalus and navigating years of brain surgeries, dismissal, and recovery.Timestamps:0:02 — Intro to the episodeDwayne welcomes listeners, introduces Jeff Pearson, and explains why Jeff’s story is important for the men’s mental health conversation.0:40 — Jeff’s bioJeff is introduced as a speaker, author, business owner, TV host, and executive director of Hydro with Hope.1:32 — Jeff on bios and first impressionsJeff says a bio is only a teaser and not the full story.2:15 — Men’s mental health discussion beginsDwayne asks where men’s mental health awareness is doing well and what needs to change.2:51 — Men are taught not to ask for helpJeff challenges the idea that men should be self-sufficient, silent, and never show weakness.4:59 — Jeff’s parents gave him a healthy mindsetJeff explains how his parents taught him he was not sick and encouraged him to live like a normal kid while being smart.6:26 — Your story can help othersJeff encourages men to see their lived experience as something valuable that can help others.8:11 — Physical challenges and staying activeJeff talks about living with a physical condition, skateboarding, snowboarding, and learning to be cautious.9:36 — Band, choir, and meeting his wifeJeff shares how music shaped his life and led him to meet his wife in seventh grade band class.11:38 — Community in musicJeff explains that band created the same kind of camaraderie people often associate with sports.13:47 — His wife’s role in his mental healthJeff talks about how his wife has supported him deeply, especially as his condition became more difficult later in life.15:39 — Supporting young people with hydrocephalusJeff shares how he would encourage someone newly facing brain surgery or a chronic condition.17:56 — Invisible conditions and mental strainJeff explains how invisible conditions can take a major toll because people often can’t see the symptoms.18:23 — When doctors dismiss symptomsJeff discusses how people are often dismissed when their symptoms can’t be easily identified or treated.21:03 — Jeff’s high school storyJeff tells the story of knowing something was wrong for two years while doctors dismissed his concerns.23:28 — Finally being believedJeff describes the relief of finally being validated and treated after years of pain and doubt.24:15 — Advocate for yourselfJeff urges people to trust their bodies, keep pushing for answers, and seek help beyond the first opinion.26:15 — Trust, surgery, and faithJeff talks about how faith helps him face brain surgery and uncertainty with peace.28:11 — Grace and hopeJeff explains how grace helps him extend compassion to others and keep hope alive.28:52 — How to contact JeffJeff shares his best email for speaking, support, and conversations about the show or invisible conditions.30:02 — Closing thanksResources & Links:Hydro with Hope: www.HydrowithHope.comFB Page: / hydrowithhope Donate to Hydro with Hope:https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-...Invisible Condition e360tv: https://e360tv.com/networks/play_seri...FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InvisibleCon...Connect with Jeff:LinkedIn: / jeff-pearson-b57a564
In this honest conversation, Dwayne Morton shares his journey through trauma, vulnerability, and healing. He explores how men can break free from silence, embrace their true selves, and build meaningful support systems—highlighting that real strength lies in authenticity and presence.Main topics:Dwayne’s experience with mental health crises and seeking helpHow trauma reshapes mindset and personal growthThe masks men wear and why they’re hard to shedThe difference between suppression and strengthBuilding a healthy support system and brotherhoodProcessing trauma without defining oneself by itThe importance of vulnerability in healingPractical daily routines for resilience and self-careOvercoming shame and guilt from past mistakesThe role conversations and community play in transformationChallenging misconceptions about men’s mental healthTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Navigating questions when a guest can’t make it00:29 - The importance of honesty and safety in conversations01:45 - A pivotal moment: Dealing with police shooting and mental health02:10 - Traditional talk therapy and personal resilience journey03:04 - Social anxiety and the impact of trauma on daily life04:32 - Who I was before and who I am becoming: embracing love and authenticity05:22 - Masks of incapability and self-worth struggles06:21 - Overcoming feelings of not being valued or heard07:56 - The realization that pushing through isn’t always the answer09:24 - Why men struggle in silence and the idea of strength vs suppression10:11 - Redefining strength: asking for help and being vulnerable11:05 - Confusing suppression with strength and health risks12:27 - The fear men have to admit: needing support and help13:26 - How painful experiences reshape mindset and the power of solitude14:29 - The importance of community and feeling seen in healing15:40 - Personal breakthroughs and the journey from survival to purpose17:33 - Lessons from survival: making decisions for self-preservation18:41 - Processing trauma without letting it define you19:39 - The challenge of sharing stories and the value of defining oneself outside of trauma20:36 - Daily routines: gratitude, self-care, movement, and adaptability22:34 - Recognizing mental slipping and the role of self-awareness24:17 - Working with shadow self and inner work tools25:18 - Separating true self from survival identity26:45 - How conversation has played a key role in healing27:34 - Unexpected healing: overcoming guilt and shame from past relationships28:23 - Building a healthy support system for men29:08 - Brotherhood’s impact on healing processes30:11 - Handling relationships when not at your best32:16 - Breaking the stigma around men's mental health34:00 - The importance of asking for help; healing begins when open35:13 - Words of encouragement to men struggling in silence36:15 - Closing remarks and upcoming episode teaser
In this episode, Dwayne Morton sits down with sports performance coach Jimmy Carter for a powerful conversation about men’s mental health, emotional resilience, and the role of nervous system work in performance and healing. Main Topics:The societal conditioning of men to suppress emotions and its impact on mental healthHow emotions are powerful tools for growth and resilienceThe role of support systems, especially partners, in recovery and healingPersonal stories of struggle, silence, and eventual breakthroughThe significance of neuroplasticity and nervous system work in athletic and personal developmentPractical ways to rewire trauma and trauma responses for better performance and well-beingThe importance of spirituality, faith, and inner work in building resilienceHow men can embrace vulnerability without losing strengthThe influence of societal narratives on men’s mental health and the need to shift perceptionResources for healing, including books and podcasts that deepen understanding of the nervous system and traumaTimestamps0:02 — Dwayne thanks Jimmy for joining and supporting the 30-day podcast project0:38 — Jimmy shares why men’s mental health awareness matters1:36 — Episode introduction and guest setup2:34 — Jimmy’s bio and background in performance coaching3:41 — Jimmy reflects on how he views his impact and purpose4:34 — Dwayne asks what men’s mental health is doing well and what needs improvement4:51 — Jimmy explains how men misunderstand emotion and feeling5:56 — He describes the difference between using emotion as a tool versus as victimhood7:37 — Dwayne asks about personal responsibility when someone comes to Jimmy with pain8:07 — Jimmy says his first job is to make people feel seen and heard9:03 — Dwayne asks about shutting down and closing off emotionally9:35 — Jimmy shares his experience of suppressing emotions for years10:33 — He opens up about a devastating period in 202112:10 — Dwayne brings up the role of Jimmy’s wife in his healing12:40 — Jimmy explains how his wife supported and challenged him17:44 — Jimmy tells the story of being served court papers while at rock bottom19:05 — He shares the text message that shifted his mindset20:16 — The role of support systems and openness in growth22:33 — Dwayne asks about self-criticism in athletics22:55 — Jimmy explains the difference between self-reflection and self-criticism25:09 — Dwayne transitions into nervous system work and performance26:26 — Jimmy explains how nervous system blocks limit athletic performance27:50 — He gives an example of a wide receiver whose performance improved after rewiring the story30:45 — Jimmy shares where listeners can find him and his work31:07 — He introduces the Supernatural Strength Podcast32:35 — Dwayne closes the episodeResources & Links:Connect with Jimmy Carter:IG: ingrained2train / jimmy-carter-3338481a
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