The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte & Jason Haglund
The Stepping In It Podcast is a weekly discussion of the latest news and trends in behavioral health policy development and practice. Each episode features interviews with experts from across the field, including policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and advocates. The podcast provides listeners with practical tips and resources for improving the quality and access to behavioral health care.
The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte & Jason Haglund
138. Where the Money Is: How to Fund Behavioral Health Innovation & Technical Support
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In this episode, we break down a question many rural leaders and providers are asking: where do you actually find funding for technical support, innovation, and system change? From foundations and state agencies to local service clubs and unexpected funding streams, we explore how thinking broadly—and strategically—can unlock dollars that fuel long-term impact. We also discuss why starting small matters, how projects can grow over time, and the critical role data plays in sustaining and expanding your work.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- How to identify diverse funding sources for behavioral health and community initiatives.
- Why thinking beyond traditional grants can open doors to innovation.
- The role of partnerships, foundations, and local organizations in funding projects.
- How to use data to demonstrate impact and connect outcomes to financial sustainability.
- Practical next steps to start securing funding in your own community.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction & Opening Segment (Whiny Farmer Intro + Welcome)
00:02:00 - Framing the Question: Where Do You Find Funding?
00:04:30 - Thinking Broadly About Funding Innovation & Technical Support
00:07:15 - Key Funding Sources: State Agencies, Associations & Foundations
00:11:20 - Leveraging Community Connections & Local Funders
00:14:45 - Real-World Examples of Grant-Funded Collaboration
00:17:30 - Why Data Matters: Measuring Impact & Telling the Story
00:20:10 - Connecting Outcomes to Dollars & Sustainability
00:22:40 - Starting Small: Local Resources & First Steps
00:25:00 - Closing Thoughts & Encouragement
Connect with us:
https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners
https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gh9jnt2EX58