Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges
Grand Challenges represent the wicked problems that society faces—complex, persistent, and difficult to solve due to incomplete, contradictory, and ever-changing demands. Yet, addressing them is essential for humanity and life on Earth to survive and thrive. My work is dedicated to confronting these monumental issues.
These challenges are too vast for any single mind to fully comprehend or solve. They are multi-dimensional, with deep systemic roots that are reflected in legislation, policies, social behavior, and even individual thoughts and mindsets. These factors limit our ability to effectively address them.
However, there are models and frameworks I’ve developed to help organizations and activists collaborate in making tangible progress. These stem from my experience at the World Bank, where I’ve witnessed both the successes and failures of multinational efforts, and from my work with Grand Challenges in sectors that include maternal health in Kenya, earth science, finance, nursing, and mental health.
Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges
Turning Pain Into Purpose with Filmmaker Max Blaska
In this episode, I talk with filmmaker and mental health advocate Max Blaska, whose short film Last Rung on the Ladder—an adaptation of a Stephen King story—became both a tribute to his late aunt and a lifeline in his own battle with anxiety and depression.
Max shares how the project nearly fell apart amid a personal crisis, how seeking inpatient care became a turning point, and how a dedicated team helped him bring the film to life. Since then, he has screened it nationwide, partnering with local mental health organizations to ensure audiences leave with both inspiration and resources.
Now, Max is launching the Mental Health Warrior Film Festival (Sept 16–30, 2025), featuring over 20 short films from across the U.S. and beyond—each exploring themes of suicide prevention and mental health from diverse perspectives.
Tune in for an honest conversation about art, recovery, and the power of storytelling to save lives.
👉 Learn more at mentalhealthwarriorfilmfest.com
Attend the festival, or connect with Max:
Mental Health Warrior Film Festival
September 16 - 30th, 2025
Email: warrior@mentalhealthfilmfest.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/people/Mental-Health-Warrior-Film-Festival/61557935377670/
Instagram: @mentalhealthwarriormax
TikTok: Max Mental Health Warrior
For all the podcasts, highlight videos, resources, and everything you want to know about Grand Challenges, click visit grandchallenges.info
