Homegirl Nation
Being a woman has never been easy and when the going gets tough, we can all use a homegirl to lean on. Join entertainment host Brigitte Truong each week as she meets with courageous guests who have found their lane despite the odds. From business failures to mental health, sex to hate crimes, the candid discussions you hear will give you a new perspective on how freeing and empowering it can be when you own your story. Let’s make it easier to talk about tough things when it comes to womanhood because when we do, we’ll see that we’re more alike and connected than we think.
Homegirl Nation
#68 Mary Deacon | The Three No's That Led to Canada's Biggest Mental Health Movement
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Today, I’m sitting down with Mary Deacon, the woman behind Bell Let’s Talk.
Before Bell Let’s Talk became one of the biggest mental health movements in Canada, it took three no's for Mary to finally find her yes. But what makes her story so powerful isn't just what she built, it's what shaped her long before Bell Let's Talk ever existed.
We talk about growing up at a time when mental health wasn't part of the vocabulary, when people didn't always have the words for depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction, or suicide. And because they didn't have the words, a lot of people suffered quietly.
We also talk about the personal losses that shaped Mary’s life, and how she continues to dedicate her life to changing the way Canadians think and talk about mental health. Mary is also a member of RALLY’s advisory board, and it’s been such a gift to learn from and work alongside her.
Before we begin, a gentle note that this episode includes conversations about depression, suicide, and addiction. If this brings anything up for you, support is available by calling or texting 9-8-8 in Canada.
I’m so grateful you’re here. Let’s hangout!