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Living Undeterred

Living Undeterred

by Jeff Johnston

Self-Improvement Mental Health

Season 3

Being a Better Teammate to Yourself with Luke Lachey

In this episode of the Brightn Podcast, host Jeff Johnston sits down with standout Iowa tight end and future NFL player Luke Lachey for a candid conversation about resilience, identity, and mental wellness both on and off the field. From carrying the legacy of an NFL father to overcoming a season-ending injury, Luke shares how adversity has shaped his perspective and how positive self-talk has become one of his greatest tools. Together, they explore: Growing up with the shadow—and strength—of an NFL legacy The culture of Iowa football and leading by example How injuries taught him patience, perspective, and purpose The role of support systems: from teammates to teachers to family The power of mental conditioning and becoming a teammate to yourself Navigating identity beyond the game and life after football Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or someone navigating your own challenges, Luke’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership starts with how we talk to ourselves—and how we lift others up in the process. 🎧 Subscribe and share if this conversation inspires you. #MentalWellness #AthleteMindset #LukeLachey #BrightnPodcast #Leadership #SelfTalk #IowaFootball #NextPlayMentality

Turning Tragedy Into Purpose with Mike Farr

In this deeply moving episode of Living Undeterred, Jeff Johnston welcomes Mike Farr—founder of Project SAFE and a courageous advocate for suicide prevention—for a vulnerable, purpose-driven conversation about loss, hope, and action. After losing his son Garrett to suicide in 2017, Mike transformed unimaginable grief into a mission to save lives. From launching community conversations and building local mental health resources to helping other families navigate the aftermath of loss, Mike’s work has become a lifeline for many across Iowa and beyond. Key Themes Explored: The signs of suicidal ideation and the power of asking direct, difficult questions How trauma impacts entire families—and how early intervention can prevent generational loss The unique mental health challenges facing youth athletes and why licensed counselors are needed in schools and sports Why peer-to-peer programs and technology must evolve to meet people where they are The importance of support after the first 90 days of loss—when the casseroles stop and the silence begins Stories of transformation: how one conversation at Garrett’s visitation saved another life Project SAFE’s work, from “Strike Out the Stigma” to funding therapy access and grief groups Mike’s story is one of strength, service, and faith—a reminder that even in the darkest moments, we can become beacons of light for others. Whether you’re a parent, coach, advocate, or simply someone who wants to do more, this conversation will leave you both heartbroken and inspired. 🎧 Together, we’re saving lives—one life at a time. #LivingUndeterred #ProjectSAFE #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthMatters #JeffJohnston #MikeFarr #YouthMentalHealth #StrikeOutTheStigma #GriefSupport #MentalWellness #HopeAfterLoss #PeerSupport #FaithDrivenHealing

Gen Z Mental Wellness with Ben Trotter

In this episode of Living Undeterred, Jeff Johnston sits down with Ben Trotter—a Gen Z voice with a passion for mental health and personal development—for a raw, wide-ranging conversation about what it means to pursue mental wellness in a digital age. Ben shares his journey from studying finance at the University of Iowa to becoming a key voice on the Brightn Thriver Council, advocating for practical mental health solutions designed for his generation. Together, Jeff and Ben explore the powerful intersection of discipline, technology, and mindset—examining both the promise and the peril of growing up online. Key Themes Discussed: Why Gen Z needs intentional digital tools—not just access to information The paradox of motivation vs. discipline in building mental strength Cold plunging and other physical habits as metaphors for mental resilience The dangers of dopamine-driven social media use and algorithmic rabbit holes How AI can both enable and erode mental clarity Daily wins, non-negotiables, and gratitude as anchors in personal growth What it means to live your mission—one season at a time Ben also opens up about his faith, journaling practices, and book recommendations that shaped his mindset—including Atomic Habits, How to Win Friends & Influence People, and The Magic of Thinking Big. This conversation isn’t just for Gen Z—it’s for anyone who’s ready to stop chasing happiness and start building sustainable, meaningful wellness. 🎧 Listen in for a grounded, honest look at what it means to live undeterred in a distracted world. #LivingUndeterred #GenZMentalHealth #Brightn #MindsetMatters #ColdPlunge #MentalWellness #JeffJohnston #BenTrotter #FaithAndDiscipline #DigitalMentalHealth #AtomicHabits #PersonalGrowth

Navigating Mental Health from the Frontlines with Dr. Richard Lopez

In this thought-provoking episode of Living Undeterred, Jeff Johnston is joined by Dr. Richard Lopez—an Assistant Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and director of the Social Neuroscience of Affective Processes (SNAP) Lab—for a conversation that bridges the gap between research and real-world mental health care. With expertise in the science of emotion, digital media use, and youth mental health, Dr. Lopez brings a grounded perspective on today’s challenges, highlighting both the progress made and the pressing needs that remain. His work explores how psychological science can inform practical strategies for supporting young people inside and outside the classroom. Core Topics Covered: The current state of youth mental health and how early we need to intervene The challenge of reaching “kids who don’t talk”—and why behavior is communication The ripple effect of suicide and why survivor support is crucial The role of schools as access points for care—and the need for scalable solutions Faith, family, and community as stabilizing forces amid emotional chaos The importance of checking in, not checking out—how to show up consistently Why mental health must be a daily conversation, not a reactive one Dr. Lopez shares actionable insights for parents, educators, and anyone working with youth—urging a collaborative, persistent approach to destigmatizing and addressing mental health. His passion is clear: better systems, deeper compassion, and more trained professionals at the table. 🎧 This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to move from awareness to action. #LivingUndeterred #YouthMentalHealth #DrRichardLopez #MentalHealthAwareness #SchoolBasedSupport #JeffJohnston #MentalWellness #SuicidePrevention #BehaviorIsCommunication #FaithAndHealing #EarlyIntervention #LivingUndeterredPodcast

Leading with Love: Kenyon Murray on Grief, Growth, and Giving Back

In this heartfelt episode of Living Undeterred, Jeff Johnston is joined by Kenyon Murray—former Iowa Hawkeye, mental health advocate, and founder of the Murray Foundation—for a vulnerable and empowering conversation about turning pain into purpose. From losing his son Patrick to suicide, to mentoring the next generation of student-athletes, Kenyon opens up about how faith, family, and community fuel his mission to make a lasting impact both on and off the court. 🔑 In This Episode, You'll Hear: The emotional story behind Patrick’s passing and its lasting impact How Kenyon is redefining masculinity through vulnerability and service The origins of the Murray Foundation and its mental health mission What it means to “show up” for your kids in an increasingly distracted world The intersection of athletics, mental health, and generational healing How small actions and consistent presence create real legacy A powerful message for parents navigating grief, growth, and second chances 💡 “Legacy isn’t what you leave behind. It’s what you live every day.” – Kenyon Murray 🎧 Whether you're a parent, coach, or simply someone who cares about mental wellness, this conversation will remind you of the power of presence—and the strength found in shared struggle.

Faith Without Proof: Redefining Belief, Morality, and the Human Journey

In the powerful conclusion to his three-part solo series, Living Undeterred host Jeff Johnston dives headfirst into one of life’s most debated themes: faith. But this isn't a sermon—it’s a soul-searching exploration of doubt, belief, and what it means to be a good person in a complex, polarized world. Through raw reflections on grief, philosophy, and the search for meaning, Jeff challenges listeners to rethink what anchors their values—whether it’s God, humanity, or simply hope. 🔑 This Episode Explores: The difference between faith, hope, and evidence—and why it matters Jeff’s personal journey from atheism to agnosticism after unimaginable loss Why morality doesn't require religion—and why love, not labels, should define us How Stoicism and Marcus Aurelius shaped Jeff’s worldview The concept of “being the path” rather than staying on a path What it means to build a life of purpose, no matter your belief system A universal call to kindness, service, and daily acts of good 💡 “You don’t need a religion to love your neighbor. You just need a reason.” 🎧 Whether you're devout, doubting, or somewhere in between, this episode will meet you where you are—and invite you to live with more intention, more love, and more courage.

From Addiction to Advocacy: Dr. Nate Harold on Reforming Pharmacy and Restoring Purpose

In this eye-opening episode of Living Undeterred, Jeff Johnston sits down with Dr. Nate Harold, Chief Pharmacy Officer at MedOne, for a vulnerable and visionary conversation about family, faith, and the broken state of pharmaceutical care. What starts as a discussion about PBMs and prescription access quickly unfolds into a story of personal trauma, moral courage, and system-wide reform. Together, Jeff and Dr. Harold explore how their shared experiences with addiction and loss have fueled a mission to rethink mental wellness from the inside out. 🔑 In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Dr. Harold’s mother’s opioid addiction shaped his purpose in life Why the pharmacy industry is broken—and what MedOne is doing to fix it The dangerous misalignment between profit and patient care in prescription benefits How faith, service, and transparency can guide organizational leadership Why holistic mental wellness must include financial literacy and purpose The future of AI as a tool for connection, not just information Why “pivoting” is sometimes the most courageous thing a person can do 💡 “If you’re unhappy, don’t settle—pivot. Change the game.” – Dr. Nate Harold 🎧 Tune in to discover how pharmacy reform and personal healing can converge to spark real, systemic change—for our communities, and for ourselves.

The Intersection of Health, Wealth & Purpose: Building a Life That Flourishes

In this deeply personal solo episode, host Jeff Johnston unpacks the foundational pillars that shape both the Brightn app and his personal philosophy on mental wellness: health, wealth, and purpose. Following the emotional groundwork of “The Road to Resilience,” this second segment explores how lived experience, loss, and legacy led to a reimagined approach to flourishing—rooted not in treatment, but in empowerment. Jeff shares the story behind the app’s name, the lessons learned from decades in wealth management, and the bold vision to reframe mental health as proactive mental wellness planning. 🔑 In This Episode, Jeff Explores: Why “purpose becomes passion when it gets personal” How small daily choices can radically change your health trajectory The overlooked role of financial insecurity in mental health struggles What Gen Z’s crisis of meaning teaches us about modern life How Brightn uses human asset classes—health, wealth, and purpose—to reduce suffering and promote flourishing The power of service, gratitude, and giving without expectation Why the future of mental wellness must go beyond labels and pills 💡 “Suffering will be my opportunity.” —Viktor Frankl 🎧 Subscribe and stay tuned for Part 3: a candid, soul-stirring segment on faith—the unseen force that holds it all together.

Redefining Education: How Charter Schools are Saving Kids w/ Dr. Cynthia Knight

In this powerful episode of The Living Undeterred Podcast, host Jeff Johnston sits down with Dr. Cynthia Knight, founder of Iowa Choice Charter School, for a deeply personal and eye-opening conversation about education, equity, and second chances. After years in special education and with a daughter who struggled in traditional schools, Dr. Knight saw firsthand how many students fall through the cracks of the public school system. What began as a dream became a statewide innovation: an online charter school built specifically for kids who have been bullied, expelled, overwhelmed, or simply left behind. Jeff and Dr. Knight dive into: The emotional toll of school-based trauma on kids and families How Iowa’s new charter school laws created an opportunity for change Why testing and rigid pacing hurt more than help The power of meeting students where they are Success stories from students who found purpose in farming, welding, parenting, and more What the future holds for education that centers empathy, flexibility, and individual growth This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and advocates who believe that all kids—regardless of circumstance—deserve a chance to thrive. Learn more or enroll: iowachoicecharterschool.org Learn more about the Brightn app at brightn.app #LivingUndeterred #MentalHealth #CharterSchools #EmpowerKids

The Road to Resilience: Choosing Hope After Unimaginable Loss

In this powerful solo episode, Living Undeterred host Jeff Johnston opens up like never before in part one of a new three-part series exploring the core pillars of his journey. Titled The Road to Resilience, this raw and deeply personal episode traces Jeff’s path through devastating tragedy, including the loss of his son to fentanyl poisoning, his wife to alcoholism, and his own near-suicide. With unwavering honesty and vulnerability, Jeff shares how he transformed grief into a mission—one rooted in purpose, mental wellness, and the belief that we can all choose a different path, no matter how dark things become. Whether you’re navigating loss or simply seeking a way forward, this episode reminds us that resilience isn’t just a trait—it’s a choice. 👉 Stay tuned for Part 2: “The Intersection of Health, Wealth, and Purpose.” #LivingUndeterred #MentalWellness #GriefRecovery #Resilience #FentanylAwareness #AlcoholismRecovery #Brightn #HopeAfterLoss

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