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Radio Totally Normal Toronto

Radio Totally Normal Toronto

By Radio Totally Normal Toronto

Radio Totally Normal Toronto (RTNT) is a new monthly podcast produced by Progress Place, a mental health recovery centre. RTNT is excited to explore and showcase stories and new initiatives from Toronto's diverse mental health community.
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Episode 8 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: The Toronto Writer's Collective: Expressive Writing and Mental Health

Radio Totally Normal TorontoJun 13, 2018

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Ep. 46 - Food and Your Mood
Dec 19, 202332:52
Ep.45 - World Mental Health Day Special - Community Works!

Ep.45 - World Mental Health Day Special - Community Works!

In this very special episode for World Mental Health Day, we speak with the members of Progress Place about what the Clubhouse community means to them!
Join us this World Mental Health Day – October 10, as we partner with Clubhouse International and the World Federation for Mental Health in recognizing #community as a key to recovery for people living with mental illness.
We hope you enjoy the episode!
Music Credits:

Futurology by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/
Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com
Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Traveling Around The World by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/
Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com
Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
Free Relaxing Chill Music | ARNOR by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/
Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com
Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Oct 13, 202317:57
Ep.44 - Origin Story Revisited

Ep.44 - Origin Story Revisited

For our 44th episode we thought it would be fun to revisit our very first episode from January 2017.

This past month we were honoured to receive the Legacy on the Airwaves Award from CJRU 1280AM, recognizing RTNT as the longest running program on CJRU. To celebrate we'd like to turn back the clock and revisit RTNT Episode 1 - Origin Story.

Enjoy!

Jul 17, 202326:58
Ep. 43 - Mental Health and Sleep

Ep. 43 - Mental Health and Sleep

For our 43rd episode we host a round table discussion about how our sleep can greatly impact our mental health. We share tips and tricks and discuss healthy habits and routines.

Sweet dreams!


Music Credits:


Stars by Vlad Gluschenko | https://soundcloud.com/vgl9

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US


Glow by Scott Buckley | https://soundcloud.com/scottbuckley

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


Traveling Around The World by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US


Ethereal by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US


Free Relaxing Chill Music | ARNOR by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Jul 17, 202328:03
Ep.42 - Mental Health and Creative Writing

Ep.42 - Mental Health and Creative Writing

For our 42nd episode of RTNT we explore the benefits of creative writing on our mental health. Progress Place member Mark interview fellow members, Yael, Walter and Mattie about their creative pursuits and the positive effects it has on their mental health.

Yael is poet and discusses her process and inspiration and shares one of her favourite poems from her collection. Walter is a singer/songwriter and offers us a glimpse into what motivates his songwriting and contributes one of his own songs, titled Want to Help. And finally Mattie shares his unique approach to ambient songwriting and how the act of creating is by its very nature what helps in his metal wellness journey.


Music Credits:


Stars by Vlad Gluschenko | https://soundcloud.com/vgl9

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US


Glow by Scott Buckley | https://soundcloud.com/scottbuckley

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


Traveling Around The World by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US


Ethereal by Punch Deck | https://soundcloud.com/punch-deck

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US


Free Relaxing Chill Music | ARNOR by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Jul 17, 202328:19
RTNT World Mental Health Day: A collaboration with Independence Center - Episode 41

RTNT World Mental Health Day: A collaboration with Independence Center - Episode 41

Our 41st episode of RTNT a very special one, as we are coming together to recognize World Mental Health Day. The World Mental Health Day theme for 2022 is Make Mental Health and Well-Being for All a Global Priority. In addition, Clubhouse International has partnered with the World Federation for Mental Health. The 2022 Clubhouse Campaign is Wellness WORKS! This theme allows us to focus on the importance of integrating wellness programming into our mental health supports. And if we want to help make mental health and well-being for all a global priority, then why not focus on programming that is featured in Clubhouses all over the world?

Our special World Mental Health Day episode features a round-table discussion between Independence Center, a Clubhouse in St. Louis, Missouri, and Progress Place Clubhouse. We’ll be hearing all about different wellness programs and why they’re so important to the Clubhouse Model.

Happy World Mental Health Day to all of our listeners. May we continue to make mental health and well-being a priority for all, and remember… Wellness Works!A special thank you to members and staff from Independence Center for appearing in the 41st episode of RTNT. And thank you to all members and staff at Progress Place who helped record, edit, and produce this episode.

*If you are looking for a community to be a part of your Mental Health recovery; please visit a Clubhouse near you.  Clubhouse International reaches over 100,000 people living with mental illness per year in 320+ clubhouses in 34 countries. Please visit clubhouseinternational.org to find a clubhouse in your community.* To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. You can stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto. If you’d like to learn more about Progress Place you can: 

Visit progressplace.org

@progressplaceclubhouse on Instagram & Facebook

@Progress_Place on Twitter

Thanks again for listening to us and stay tuned for our new episode two months from now!

Oct 05, 202238:52
 RTNT Episode 40 - Mental Health and New Hobbies

RTNT Episode 40 - Mental Health and New Hobbies

Welcome to the July show of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. Belke will be your host for this June 13th, 2022 episode.

*Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.*

Today we are going to tune into a group discussion about Mental Health and New Hobbies!

Mental health can be impacted by many different things, from life-changing events to everyday tasks. And while there are many strategies we can actively engage in to improve our mental health, an often-overlooked factor is spending time on an activity that you enjoy – otherwise known as a hobby.

*Disclaimer: All recordings done for RTNT were using the Zoom platform to maintain social distancing through these times.

This episode features perspectives and information that are not directly from RTNT. We are NOT health professionals who specialize in Covid-19 or any other physical health matters. If you have any questions about Covid-19 please visit the website for either Toronto Public Health or Public Health Ontario or contact your doctor directly for any health questions or concerns.

If you are in crisis, please call 911 or the Gerstein Crisis Centre (if you’re in Toronto) at (416) 929-5200*

Enjoy the following group discussion on Mental Health and New Hobbies featuring members and staff of Progress Place

Here are some great tips for how hobbies can improve your mental health according to a Utah State University article:

Reduced stress: participating in activities during leisure or spare time has been shown to reduce stress levels. For instance, one study showed approximately 75% of participants’ cortisol levels (one of the most widely studied hormonal markers of stress) were lowered after making art. Don’t consider yourself to be an artistic person? That’s okay! This study also showed that prior experience wasn’t needed to reduce stress.

Enhanced well-being: a study in New Zealand found that engaging in creative activities can lead to an improved sense of wellbeing that may have long lasting effects. Participants felt a higher positive affect or mood and a sense of flourishing after days where they engaged in a creative activity.

Improved social connection, decreases in depression and anxiety: while there are many mental health benefits related to hobbies on your own, group or ‘team’ hobbies have also been shown to provide important opportunities for social connection, friendship and support. Research also shows that adults who regularly participate in some kind of team sport are less likely to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress.

Improved mental health: hobbies that include physical activity have been linked to many health benefits including reduced stress, reduced blood pressure, and a lower heart rate. But if you take physical activity outside, there are many additional positive benefits. Experts agree that spending as little as 10 minutes in nature can lead to improved mood, focus, and overall wellbeing.

*If you are looking for a community to be a part of your Mental Health recovery; please visit a Clubhouse near you.  Clubhouse International reaches over 100,000 people living with mental illness per year in 320+ clubhouses in 34 countries. Please visit clubhouseinternational.org to find a clubhouse in your community.*

A special thank you to our interviewers of RTNT. Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Thank you to our listeners. Please, share this episode with your friends and family.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. You can stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podbast if you search

Jul 13, 202232:51
RTNT Episode 39 - Black Mental Health Week

RTNT Episode 39 - Black Mental Health Week

Welcome to the March show of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. Belke is your host for this March 9th, 2022 episode number 39.

*Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.*

Today we are going to speak on Black Mental Health Week. We’re going to connect with staff and members of Progress Place and the Community HUB to their discussion on the topic. We recorded the interview over Zoom.

From the Black Mental Health Week Website:

"TAIBU Community Health Centre, in partnership with the City of Toronto, hosted the inaugural Black Mental Health Day in March, 2020, citing the Toronto Black community’s demand to end 400 years of oppression and the ongoing mental health impact of persistent, systemic anti-Black racism in all settings.

Partly due to high-profile incidents of anti-Black racism in 2020, a groundswell of momentum is slowly improving awareness and strengthening the demand from communities across the globe, to improve understanding and to initiate action to end anti-Black racism and the negative mental health impact it causes where Black communities live, work and play."

"Rates of depressive symptoms among Black individuals are nearly six times the 12-month prevalence reported for the general population in Canada," Jude Mary Cenat, an associate professor at the University of Ottawa, said in a press release.

A satellite program of Progress Place, Community Place Hub is a health access hub providing programs and services in Weston and Mount Dennis communities. To access them, please call 416-323-1429.

*Disclaimer: All recordings done for RTNT were using the Zoom platform to maintain social distancing through these times.

This episode features perspectives and information that are not directly from RTNT. We are NOT health professionals who specialize in Covid-19 or any other physical health matters. If you have any questions about Covid-19 please visit the website for either Toronto Public Health or Public Health Ontario or contact your doctor directly for any health questions or concerns.

This episode may contain conversations around suicide and suicide prevention. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or the Gerstein Crisis Centre (if you’re in Toronto) at (416) 929-5200*

*If you are looking for a community to be a part of your Mental Health recovery; please visit a Clubhouse near you.  Clubhouse International reaches over 100,000 people living with mental illness per year in 320+ clubhouses in 34 countries. Please visit clubhouseinternational.org to find a clubhouse in your community.*

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. You can stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

If you’d like to learn more about Progress Place you can:

Visit progressplace.org

@progressplaceclubhouse on Instagram & Facebook

@Progress_Place on Twitter

Thanks again for listening to us and stay tuned for our new episode two months from now!

Mar 09, 202242:17
RTNT Episode 38 - Mental Health and Routines

RTNT Episode 38 - Mental Health and Routines

Welcome to the December show of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. Mark was the host for this episode of RTNT December 8th, 2021 episode number 38.

*Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.*

Today we are going to speak on Mental Health and Morning Routines. First off, we’re going to connect with staff and members of Progress Place to listen in on their Round Table discussion on the topic. We recorded the discussion over Zoom as the Clubhouse is not currently open to record in our studio.

Cleaning, breakfast, working out, hydrating, making the bed, cooking, coffee, sleeping, hygiene and showering, the possibilities are endless for routines.

According to TherapyGroup of NYC: “By establishing a daily routine, we can set aside time to take care of tasks and focus on our mental and physical health. Routines are essential at every stage of life—from childhood and adolescence to adulthood. They help us cope with change, create healthy habits, improve interpersonal relationships, and reduce stress.”

*Disclaimer: All recordings done for RTNT were using the Zoom platform to maintain social distancing through these times.

This episode features perspectives and information that are not directly from RTNT. We are NOT health professionals who specialize in Covid-19 or any other physical health matters. If you have any questions about Covid-19 please visit the website for either Toronto Public Health or Public Health Ontario or contact your doctor directly for any health questions or concerns.

This episode may contain conversations around suicide and suicide prevention. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or the Gerstein Crisis Centre (if you’re in Toronto) at (416) 929-5200*

Enjoy the following Round Table discussion on Mental Health and Routines featuring staff and members of Progress Place.

*If you are looking for a community to be a part of your Mental Health recovery; please visit a Clubhouse near you.  Clubhouse International reaches over 100,000 people living with mental illness per year in 320+ clubhouses in 34 countries. Please visit clubhouseinternational.org to find a clubhouse in your community.*

We would like to thank all those involved with this episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

A special thank you to our interviewers of RTNT. Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Thank you to our listeners. Please, share this episode with your friends and family.

*To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. You can stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

If you’d like to learn more about Progress Place you can:

-visit progressplace.org.

-Follow us on social media

@progressplaceclubhouse on Instagram & Facebook

@Progress_Place on Twitter*

For this month we’ll be listening to a familiar Canadian artist by the name of Charles Thomas "Stompin' Tom" Connors. Tom was a Canadian country and folk  singer-songwriter. Focusing his career exclusively on his native Canada, he is credited with writing more than 300 songs and has released four dozen albums, with total sales of nearly four million copies. We picked out a Christmas song called Merry Christmas Everybody and it has an amazing energy to it. Happy Holidays, stay tuned and stay connected.

Dec 08, 202146:23
RTNT Episode 37 - Mental health and Resilience

RTNT Episode 37 - Mental health and Resilience

Welcome to the August show of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. The show aired on August 11, 2021. It’s our 37th episode!

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, provides a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place; a psycho-social clubhouse approach to mental health recovery; situated in downtown Toronto.

This month's episode is about Mental Health and Building resilience. You will get an opportunity to listen to a discussion over Zoom between members and staff of Progress Place about the importance of resilience when it comes to our mental health.

As Harold Kushner, the author of "When bad things happen to good people", said "Sometimes bad things have to happen before good things can", resilience can be defined as one's capacity to withstand hardship and be able to recover quickly from life's challenges." The participants shared their own definitions of resilience and their personal experiences going through challenges and recovering from them.  

By no means should any of the information or opinions presented be considered as advice. What we do advise is that the info be taken with a grain of salt and for our listeners to form their own opinions.  

Thank you to all the members and staff that were part of this interesting conversation about Mental health and Building resilience, and that were part of the production of the 37th episode of RTNT.

Please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health wellness.

Are you or someone you know looking for a community resource to support Mental Health Wellness? If so, a Clubhouse near you offers tours. Every year, Clubhouse International reaches 100,000+ people in 320+ clubhouses in 34 countries. To find a clubhouse in your community, go to
clubhouseinternational.org.  

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. Also, we’re happy to announce that you can now stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

If you’d like to learn more about Progress Place you can:

- visit progressplace.org.   

- Follow us on social media. _@progressplaceclubhouse on Instagram & Facebook

_ @Progress_Place on Twitter

Aug 13, 202134:26
RTNT Episode 36 - Mental Health & Creative Outlets

RTNT Episode 36 - Mental Health & Creative Outlets

Welcome to the 36th episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. 

This month's episode is about Mental Health and Creativity. You will get an opportunity to listen to a discussion over Zoom between members and staff of Progress Place about how having a creative outlet can impact our mood and mental health.

Several scientific studies have shown that having a creative outlet can help increase positive emotions and reduce depressive symptoms and anxiety.

By no means should any of the information or opinions presented be considered as advice. What we do advise is that the info be taken with a grain of salt and for our listeners to form their own opinions.

We would like to thank all those involved with this episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto and a special thanks to Catherine, a facilitator from the Toronto Writers Collective, a non-profit organization that provides free creative writing workshops to vulnerable communities in the GTA and other Canadian cities. 

Thank you to our listeners and all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

*To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. You can stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

If you’d like to learn more about Progress Place you can:

-Visit progressplace.org.

-Follow us on social media

@progressplaceclubhouse on Instagram & Facebook

@Progress_Place on Twitter*

Jun 11, 202140:27
RTNT Episode 35 - Staying Paws-itive with Pets

RTNT Episode 35 - Staying Paws-itive with Pets

Welcome to the April show of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. Julie of RTNT was the host for this April 14, 2021 episode number 35.

Today we are going to speak on Mental Health and Pets. First off, we’re going to connect with staff and members of Progress Place to listen in on their Round Table discussion on the topic. We recorded the discussion over Zoom as the Clubhouse is not currently open to record in our studio.

This episode features perspectives and information that are not directly from RTNT. We are NOT health professionals who specialize in Covid-19 or any other physical health matters. If you have any questions about Covid-19 please visit the website for either Toronto Public Health or Public Health Ontario or contact your doctor directly for any health questions or concerns.

This episode may contain conversations around suicide and suicide prevention. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or the Gerstein Crisis Centre (if you’re in Toronto) at (416) 929-5200

Afterwards, we are spoke with Liane Weber of The LifeLine Canada Foundation. They have an amazing program, among others, called Companion Paws Canada.

Taken from the Companion Paws website: “Medical studies have confirmed what we all know from experience, spending time with an affectionate pet makes us feel better. In fact, contact with a compassionate animal can significantly improve mental and physical health, as well as reduce stress, depression and anxiety. A pet can make a huge difference in your life.”

Our round table discussion involves a group of animal loving staff and members. We are really fortunate to be able to draw from their knowledge and experience around pets. It’s difficult to know the true benefits of owning a pet until it's something you experience for yourself. This discussion was so fun to do that they lost track of time!

We would like to thank all those involved with this episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Please check out the Lifeline Canada Foundation website and on the app store. Thank you Liane Weber.

A special thank you to our interviewers of RTNT. Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Thank you to our listeners. Please, share this episode with your friends and family.

*To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. You can stream RTNT on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

If you’d like to learn more about Progress Place you can:

-visit progressplace.org.

-Follow us on social media

@progressplaceclubhouse on Instagram & Facebook

@Progress_Place on Twitter*

Thanks again for listening to us and stay tuned for a new episode in two months!

Apr 14, 202147:57
RTNT Episode 34 - Nutrition and Mental Health

RTNT Episode 34 - Nutrition and Mental Health

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 34 was hosted on February 10th, 2021. This month we sat down with Racquel from Regent Park Communty Centre and Diabetes Education Program and Kaltuma from Weston Mount Dennis at the Community Hub.

The episode was recorded using an online platform and all the participants were in their own homes to comply with the social distancing recommendation. 

On this episode we have an interview with Kaltuma from Weston Mount Dennis at the Community Hub in Toronto.  She shared with us the changes that have been made at The Community Hub since the beginning of the pandemic.  Then we interviewed Racquel, a nutritionist from Regent Park and Diabetes Education Program.  She shares tips and tricks to stay healthy throughout the pandemic.  

Progress Place Warm Line have extended their hours to offer support to anyone feeling isolated or needing a friendly chat during these times.

Between 12pm - 8pm, Call 416-323-3721

Between 8pm - Midnight, Call 416-960-WARM (9276)

Text 647-557-5882

You can also chat online on warmline.ca

Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to keep the RTNT production going through these times.

Thank you to our listeners, and we want to let you know that you are not alone. During these uncertain times, stay connected with a community that supports you can help us go through the worry and overwhelming news.  We are here for you.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website radiototallynormaltoronto.org

Also, the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast and many more if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Feb 10, 202148:25
RTNT Episode 33 - In Conversation with Steven and Criss about the Clubhouse Model for WMHD

RTNT Episode 33 - In Conversation with Steven and Criss about the Clubhouse Model for WMHD

Happy World Mental Health Day from all of the members, staff and directors of Progress Place!

This year's theme for WMHD is all about investing in mental health and access to care. So we decided to produce a very special episode of our podcast, Radio Totally Normal Toronto, that takes a deep and engaging look at the Clubhouse Model, which is, of course, the model that we follow at Progress Place.

Join RTNTers Mark, Mairon, Richard and Andrew as they are joined in conversation with Steven, a longtime member of Progress Place, and Criss, Progress Place's Executive Director as they discuss the Clubhouse Model, it's amazing impact on the lives of people living with mental illness and why it's so important to invest in programs like it - especially in times like these.

Enjoy, stay safe and happy World Mental Health Day!

Oct 10, 202044:36
RTNT Episode 32 LIVE on CJRU: #SickNotWeak an interview with Michael Landsberg

RTNT Episode 32 LIVE on CJRU: #SickNotWeak an interview with Michael Landsberg

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.  Episode 32 was hosted by Janice on CJRU 1280AM, Wednesday, August 12, 2020. This month we're talking about Mental Health and Sports. We had an opportunity to interview Michael Landsberg after an event hosted by Progress Place Clubhouse and the Rotary Club Toronto. The first part of the show features this interview and afterwards we will listen to a recorded table discussion about mental health and sports with members and staff from Progress Place.

Michael Landsberg is a well known Sports Journalist and the current host of TSN s: “First Up with Landsberg and Colaiacovo”.  In 2012, the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Health named Landsberg one of its Champions of Mental Health.  Landsbergs' documentary, “Darkness and Hope: Depression, Sports and Me”, earned a Canadian Screen Award nomination in 2013.  For his longstanding dedication to promoting mental health awareness, Landsberg was honoured with the Humanitarian Award at the 2015 Canadian Screen Awards.

In 2017, he was awarded a Meritous Service Medal, (Civil Division), for his mental health advocacy, presented by the Governor General of Canada, at a ceremony held at Rideau Hall.  Michael created the hashtag #sicknotweak and has transformed that into the website sicknotweak.com  The website provides a forum for people to share their struggles with mental illness. On the website you can read stories written by people who suffer from the many forms of mental illness.  Also you can watch the daily “Landsblog”, in which Michael shares his thoughts and stories.

Michael's objectives on the website are: To help people understand that mental illness is a sickness, not a weakness.  To create a community of people who come to gain strength and stay to give strength.  To help both sufferers and the people who care about them.  Get as many people as possible, in a loud, firm, confident voice to share the words “I am SickNotWeak”  To see the Toronto Maple Leafs win a Stanley Cup in my lifetime  Michael also states: “ I am unconventional. I am not limited like other initiatives by corporate correctness or medical agendas. I believe that the traditional way - whispered, clinical, formal and the sanitized, adds to the shame and reinforces the belief that people are weak, not sick.”  SickNotWeak can also be found on Twitter and Facebook. There is also a SickNotWeak channel on Youtube. On his channel, check out the clip “What is SickNotWeak”, it is hilarious and informative.

Progress Place Warm Line have extended their hours to offer support to anyone feeling isolated or needing a friendly chat during these times.

Between 12pm - 8pm, Call 416-323-3721

Between 8pm - Midnight, Call 416-960-WARM (9276)

Text 647-557-5882

You can also chat online on warmline.ca

Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to keep the RTNT production going through these times.  Thank you to our listeners, and we want to let you know that you are not alone. During these uncertain times, stay connected with a community that supports you can help us go through the worry and overwhelming news.  We are here for you.  To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website radiototallynormaltoronto.org.  Also, the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast and many more if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Sep 18, 202032:59
RTNT Episode 31 LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health, Community, and Coping

RTNT Episode 31 LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health, Community, and Coping

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 31 was hosted on July 8th, 2020. This month we sat down with Norma and Linda from the St. James Town Seniors Program at the Community Corner. 

The second part of the show features VOXPOPs that we had produced over Zoom! We asked several questions surrounding how members and staff have been coping with changes during the COVID19 pandemic.

The episode was recorded using an online platform and all the participants were in their own homes to comply with the social distancing recommendation.

St. James Town is the largest highrise community in Canada and is also the most densely populated area in Canada. It is a multi cultural, multi ethnic and multi linguistic neighbourhood.

In May 2011, the St. James Town Community Corner at 200 Wellesley opened doors.

The Corner is a fully accessible set of offices, meeting spaces, program rooms and community kitchen dedicated to local initiatives and services to benefit the neighbourhood.

The Corner is part of The St. James Town Service Providers’ Network (SJTSPN)   It consists of service providers and community members who work collaboratively to support the St. James Town Community. One of the subcommittees of the SPN is the Older Adult Consortium of St. James Town that comprises of representatives from service providers, local senior group leaders and residents that work together, to identify and support older adults living in the community.

The Senior Mental Health Day Program is run in collaboration with  Dixon Hall,  Hospice Toronto, Toronto Public Health and The  Corner that provides us the space for the program. Progress Place is the lead of the program. The program is located at 200 Wellesley Street E, in a safe, cheerful and friendly environment. The program operates right in the heart of the community where members/participants live. The program currently runs three days of the week from Tuesdays to Thursdays, is attended by seniors 55+ that are exceptionally vulnerable, isolated and without much social connections.

Progress Place Warm Line have extended their hours to offer support to anyone feeling isolated or needing a friendly chat during these times.

Between 12pm - 8pm, Call 416-323-3721

Between 8pm - Midnight, Call 416-960-WARM (9276)

Text 647-557-5882

You can also chat online on warmline.ca

Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to keep the RTNT production going through these times.

Thank you to our listeners, and we want to let you know that you are not alone. During these uncertain times, stay connected with a community that supports you can help us go through the worry and overwhelming news.  We are here for you.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website radiototallynormaltoronto.org

Also, the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast and many more if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Jul 08, 202030:00
RTNT Episode 30 LIVE on CJRU: Laughter Yoga with Steven Hughes

RTNT Episode 30 LIVE on CJRU: Laughter Yoga with Steven Hughes

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 30 was hosted on June 10th, 2020. This month we sat down with Steven Hughes.

The episode was recorded using an online platform and all the participants were in their own homes to comply with the social distancing recommendation. 

On this episode we have an interview with Steven Hughes, a Laughter Yoga teacher and Education Specialist from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto. He has been a certified Yoga teacher since 1985 and today he is going to explain what Laughter Yoga is and what are its benefits to our physical and mental health. We think that this topic is important at this time because it can provide us with better ways to cope with stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Progress Place Warm Line have extended their hours to offer support to anyone feeling isolated or needing a friendly chat during these times.

Between 12pm - 8pm, Call 416-323-3721

Between 8pm - Midnight, Call 416-960-WARM (9276)

Text 647-557-5882

You can also chat online on warmline.ca

Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to keep the RTNT production going through these times.

Thank you to our listeners, and we want to let you know that you are not alone. During these uncertain times, stay connected with a community that supports you can help us go through the worry and overwhelming news.  We are here for you.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website radiototallynormaltoronto.org

Also, the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast and many more if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Jun 11, 202039:21
RTNT Episode 29 LIVE on CJRU: Mental health and supports during self-isolation

RTNT Episode 29 LIVE on CJRU: Mental health and supports during self-isolation

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 29 was hosted by RTNT’s Donhaila on May 13th, 2020. This month we’re continuing  discussing Mental health and supports during self-isolation.

The episode was recorded using an online platform and all the participants were in their own homes to comply with the social distancing recommendation. We have a double feature this show: an interview with the Warm Line and a teaser of an interview we did with Steven Hughes, a Laughter Yoga Leader and Education Specialist at the Center for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH).

We recorded an interview with the Warm Line so that they may give us an overview of the services they offer. Due to confidentiality we will be leaving them nameless. Thank you to the Warm Line for their involvement with the show this month.

Progress Place Warm Line have extended their hours to offer support to anyone feeling isolated or needing a friendly chat during these times.

Between 12pm - 8pm, Call 416-323-3721

Between 8pm - Midnight, Call 416-960-WARM (9276)

Text 647-557-5882

You can also chat online on warmline.ca

The interview with Steven Hughes was so fun that we decided we wanted to show our listeners a teaser so that everyone can tune in next month (June 10th) for the full interview!

Thank you to everyone that worked so hard to keep the RTNT production going through these times.

Thank you to our listeners, and we want to let you know that you are not alone. During these uncertain times, stay connected with a community that supports you can help us go through the worry and overwhelming news.  We are here for you.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website radiototallynormaltoronto.org

Also, the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

https://open.spotify.com/show/35FOGmRKNzMB11vXee3elL

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radio-totally-normal-toronto/id1464398185?uo=4

https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9iNmVkOGE4L3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz

Our website:

https://www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org

May 15, 202025:09
RTNT Episode 28 LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Self-Isolation

RTNT Episode 28 LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Self-Isolation

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto. 

Episode 28 was hosted by RTNT’s Susan on April 8, 2020. This month we’re focusing on Mental health and self-isolation. 

The episode was recorded using an online platform and all the participants were in their own homes to comply with the social distancing recommendation. We focused the conversation on how we can protect our mental health during this COVID19 pandemic outbreak and the strategies that we can use to stay connected even when we can't leave our homes. 

The participants of this conversation, members and staff of Progress Place, share their ways to cope with self-isolation and how they stay informed trying to avoid "fake news" and misinformation.  

In the era of Social Media, a lot of unverified information can cause confusion and can reduce the effectiveness of public health advice 

The World Health Organization created the term “infodemic” to refer to this misinformation that can have real health effects on many people, especially in a population that already struggles with mental health issues. 

Also, during this episode we share some resources that anyone can access for mental health support.  

Progress Place Warm Line have extended their hours to offer support to anyone feeling isolated or needing a friendly chat during these times. 

Between 12pm - 8pm, Call 416-323-3721 
Between 8pm - Midnight, Call 416-960-WARM (9276) 
Text 647-557-5882 
You can also chat online on
warmline.ca 

Thank you to our listeners, and we want to let you know that you are not alone. During these uncertain times, stay connected with a community that supports you can help us go through the worry and overwhelming news.  We are here for you. 

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website radiototallynormaltoronto.org  

Also, the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

https://open.spotify.com/show/35FOGmRKNzMB11vXee3elL
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radio-totally-normal-toronto/id1464398185?uo=4
https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9iNmVkOGE4L3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz


Apr 08, 202033:01
RTNT Episode 27 LIVE on CJRU: Musically Speaking Pt. 2

RTNT Episode 27 LIVE on CJRU: Musically Speaking Pt. 2

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 27 was hosted by RTNT’s Matthew on March 11, 2020 . This month we’re focusing on music and mental health.

It is estimated that 1 in 5 Canadians will suffer from mental illness in their life, and billions are estimated to be lost by employers annually as a result, it is always a pertinent topic.

Milena, who is a worker at Progress Place, leads members in a discussion about how music can affect our mental health.

It is amazing how music has impacted all of the individuals in the discussion in such a positive manner.

In a article found on livescience.com Suzanne Hanser, from Berklee College of Music in Boston said:  "Music-making is linked to a number of health benefits for older adults,"

"Research shows that making music can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, reduce stress, and lessen anxiety and depression. There is also increasing evidence that making music enhances the immunological response, which enables us to fight viruses,"

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to the members and staff for their participation on this episode of RTNT.

Thank you to our listeners, and please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health wellness.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Mar 31, 202029:30
RTNT Episode 26 Live on CJRU: Musically Speaking

RTNT Episode 26 Live on CJRU: Musically Speaking

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

This month we’re talking about Mental Health and Music. In an article;  “How Listening to Music Can Have Psychological Benefits”,

b Kendra Cherry, the positive effects of music are investigated. The article can be found in verywellmind.com, (updated Dec 10,2019 and medically reviewed By Dr Daniel D Block. We have used this article as a startpoint for discussion by members and staff of Progress Place. The article looks at and suggests ways that may be helpful for things like: Cognitive performance, stress reduction, diet, memory and pain management.

We’re going to mention a couple of cool tips of how music can affect our mental health:

Music can improve your mood

In an examination of the reasons why people listen to music, researchers discovered that music played an important role in relating arousal and mood. They rated that music helps achieve better moods and become more self-aware are the most important functions of music.

Music can improve your cognitive performance

One study found that playing more upbeat music led to improvements in processing speed while both upbeat and downbeat music led to benefits in memory. 

Here are some extra tips for our listeners:

Music can reduce stress

In one 2013 study the results suggested that listening to music had an impact on the human stress response. Those who listened to music tended to recover more quickly following a stressor.

Music might help you sleep better

In a study that involved college students. The study found that participants who had listened to music had significantly better sleep quality than those who had listened to the audiobook or received no intervention.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Feb 12, 202027:55
RTNT Episode 25 Live on CJRU: Keeping Warm

RTNT Episode 25 Live on CJRU: Keeping Warm

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

This month we’re talking about Mental Health during Winter. A season when everyone tends to spend more time indoors. For those easily withdrawn and isolated; it’s especially important to keep active in winter. Even though the weather may not be perfect for outdoor and community activities there are ways to beat the cold, stay active, and even celebrate the colder months.

In our first segment, two Progress Place members, Mark and Johnny, are going to go over some research they did about winter jackets and help you decide which coat to choose. You can find inexpensive winter coats at thrift stores such as Value Village, Double Take, Johns Thrift Store, or Vintage Depot

Our second segment will be from a show we had done before on Youth and Homelessness. We interviewed Jesse Sudirgo who worked at Yonge Street Mission. The Yonge Street Mission is an organization in the downtown sector that aims to help support Toronto's most susceptible population. They aid families, children, youth, and even communities existing in daily poverty.

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to the members and staff for their participation on this episode of RTNT.

Thank you to our listeners, and please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health and wellness.

If you are in need of a shelter you can call 211 Central Access. 211 service provides Information and Referral for callers to community and social services 24/7 for Central Region (Toronto, Peel Region, York Region and Durham Region), and overnight and on weekends for the rest of Ontario: Dial 2-1-1

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Dec 30, 201926:09
Episode 24 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health through the Winter Months

Episode 24 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health through the Winter Months

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 24 was hosted by RTNT’s Toby on November 13, 2019. This month we’re focusing on winter activities to stay happy and healthy.

It is estimated that 1 in 5 Canadians will suffer from mental illness in their life, and billions are estimated to be lost by employers annually as a result, it is always a pertinent topic.

Mark, a Progress Place regular will ask members a host of questions related to how they spend their free time during the cold winter months. We will learn how different Progress Place members are affected by the reduction of sunlight, how they get around and how they dress best for the weather. A host of community resources are discussed as well. Toby then shares he knowledge of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) a depressive condition caused by decreased exposure to sunlight that is usually experienced during winter in northern regions.

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to the members and staff for their participation on this episode of RTNT.

Thank you to our listeners, and please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health wellness.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Out of the Cold:

www.outofthecold.org

RTNT: 
www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org

For more information about Progress Place please visit: 
www.progressplace.org

Nov 13, 201924:44
Episode 23 RTNT Live on CJRU: World Mental Health Day

Episode 23 RTNT Live on CJRU: World Mental Health Day

Welcome to the October show of Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca. Camelia was the host for the show on October 9th, 2019. This will be Episode 23!

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental health recovery centre in downtown Toronto.

This year’s focus for World Mental Health Day is Mental Health ll parts of the world and, in the past few decades, has reached alarming statistical levels.

The prevention of suicide has not been adequately addressed due to a lack of awareness of suicide as a major public health problem and the taboo in many societies to openly discuss.

Our contribution to Suicide Prevention is a collection of voxpops from inside the clubhouse that is meant to offer insight to maintaining positive mental health. We will also be sharing the content that we created to send to the clubhouse in Calgary called Potential Place which features similar content.

It’s important to take care of yourself and get the most from life. We’ve looked up 10 practical ways to look after your mental health. Making simple changes to how you live doesn’t need to cost a fortune or take up loads of time. Anyone can follow this advice.

The following comes from

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/how-to-mental-health

If you or someone you know are in crisis contact 911 for immediate help. If you are thinking about suicide please call 416-408-HELP.

You may contact Crisis Services Canada toll free at 1-866-456-4566. You may also text them at 45645 from 4pm - 12am. Their website offers online chat support

For friends or family who suspect someone who is in need of suicide prevention please visit www.ontariosuicidepreventionnetwork.ca or call 211.


Oct 09, 201927:27
Episode 22 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and the Arts

Episode 22 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and the Arts

You are listening to Radio Totally Normal Toronto on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca in Toronto. Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

We are now on episode 22! This month we’re focusing on mental health and the arts.  As information and awareness spreads we are seeing an increasingly holistic approach to mental health; that is looking at physical, mental, emotional and social factors as important parts of someone’s overall health. This episode we spoke with Kelly Straughan from Workman Arts about their work and evolution of the workspace. As we will see in this episode, the arts can play an important role in overall mental wellness, providing not only an important outlet for expression but a chance to develop skills and confidence as well.

Some facts about Mental Health and the arts are: 

Drawing, painting, or molding objects from clay has been shown to help people deal with different kinds of trauma. In The Connection Between Art, Healing, and Public Health, Heather L. Stuckey and Jeremy Nobel say that "art helps people express experiences that are too difficult to put into words, such as a diagnosis of cancer."

"Artistic self-expression," they continue, "might contribute to maintenance or reconstruction of a positive identity."

Additionally, a review published in 2014 suggests that individuals with musical training — such as those who learned how to play an instrument — have improved connectivity between the two hemispheres of their brains.

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to Kelly Straughan of Workman Arts for coming down to Progress Place to record the interview.

Thank you to our listeners, and please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health and wellness.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.


Sep 11, 201925:51
Episode 21 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and the Workplace

Episode 21 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and the Workplace

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.

Episode 21 was hosted by RTNT's Mathiaus on August 14th, 2019. This month we’re focusing on mental health in the workplace.  

It is estimated that 1 in 5 Canadians will suffer from mental illness in their life, and billions are estimated to be lost by employers annually as a result, it is always a pertinent topic.  Let’s get right into our first interview with Oliver who’s representing the Waterfront Business Improvement Association, an employment partner for people living with mental illness. For this segment Oliver was interviewed by Matthew from RTNT.

We also will hear the audio presentation of Progress Place's transitional employment program. We hear RTNT's Paul introduce Freta, Ali,  Sara and Mariza. If you are interested in Progress Place. 

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to Oliver from the Waterfront BIA for being involved in episode 21 of RTNT.

Thank you to our listeners, and please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health wellness.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out our website. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Waterfront BIA:

www.waterfrontbia.com
RTNT: 
www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org
For more information about Progress Place please visit: 
www.progressplace.org

Aug 14, 201923:26
Episode 20 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and LGBTQ+

Episode 20 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and LGBTQ+

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto.


Our topic for this month is Mental Health and LGBTQ+. The acronym stands for: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer, plus. This posted version of the show includes the full version of both interviews. 

Today we’ll be hearing from two wonderful organizations that were kind enough to donate their time during Pride Month to share information about their agencies. First we’ll be hearing from Ronnie of Sherbourne Health and then we’ll be hearing from Chris Shillington of the Umbrella Mental Health Network.
The reason we’ve chosen to cover the connection between LGBTQ+ and mental health is not only because of Pride Month, but to address and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ services available in our community. 

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, LGBTQ+ people may face:

Higher rates of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and phobic disorders, suicidality, self-harm, and substance use among LGBTQ+ people

Double the risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than heterosexual people.

Although the community may be considered vulnerable, its important to note that the community has overcome a lot of adversity and displayed resilience to create a space for themselves.

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to Ronnie of Sherbourne Health and Chris Shillington of Umbrella Mental Health Network for being involved in episode 20 of RTNT.

Thank you to our listeners, and please share this episode with your friends and family.  Together we can transition from mental health stigmas to a continued focus on mental health wellness.

To learn more about RTNT or listen to previous episodes please check out radiototallynormaltoronto.org. We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto.

Sherbourne Health:
sherbourne.on.ca
Umbrella Mental Health Network:
www.umhn.ca
RTNT: 
www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org
For more information about Progress Place please visit: 
www.progressplace.org

Jul 10, 201947:39
Episode 19: RTNT LIVE ON CJRU JUNE 12TH, 2019 - MENTAL HEALTH AND EDUCATION

Episode 19: RTNT LIVE ON CJRU JUNE 12TH, 2019 - MENTAL HEALTH AND EDUCATION

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a clubhouse and mental health recovery centre in downtown Toronto. Today’s episode is all about mental health and education. We will be focusing on an amazing program at George Brown College.

Children and youth spend a great deal of their lives at school; struggling with a mental health issue can affect their school life. They may behave in different ways with teachers and classmates, have difficulty making friends, or avoid going to class. Having difficulties can affect their grades. All of these issues can make things worse for them. (Source: smh-assist.ca)

It is encouraging to see our community strive to improve awareness to reduce stigma and increase the amount of supports that are available in and outside schools. 

Emily of RTNT was our interviewer for our 18th episode. We were fortunate to have interviewed Teresa Doell, Job Coordinator of the Augmented Education program at George Brown College. Teresa presents lots of insight on the program and the type of support they offer in both the classroom and for the workplace. 

Thank you to all the members and staff of Progress Place who work hard each month to create a recurring episode of Radio Totally Normal Toronto. Special thank you to Teresa Doell for being involved in episode 18 of RTNT.

We are pleased to announce that the show is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast if you search up Radio Totally Normal Toronto!

This episode originally aired on June 12th, 2019 on CJRU 1280 AM and www.cjru.ca. Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse.

George Brown College - Augmented Education: 
www.georgebrown.ca/augmentededucation
RTNT:
www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org
For more information about Progress Place please visit:

www.progressplace.org

Jun 12, 201924:00
Episode 18 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Comedy

Episode 18 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Comedy

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a clubhouse and mental health recovery centre in downtown Toronto. Today’s episode is all about mental health and comedy and how the two interact. 

First up is Bart Campbell from the organization Laughing Like Crazy.  Laughing Like Crazy aims to empower participants and audiences alike, breakdown isolation and anxiety, build self-esteem, and challenge stigma. Looking at difficult issues through the lens of humour provides an empowering perspective on mental health issues, builds confidence, and improves communication.  RTNT listeners may recognize the first interview with Bart Campbell as it is from our third episode we did back in 2017.

In the second half of the episode we will be hearing from Jordan Foisy, a stand-up comedian from Toronto.  You may know him from his first album “Standing on the edge of unspeakable anxiety” as well as his written work for Vice Magazine and “This hour has 22 minutes.”  Most recently he is entertaining crowds with his show “The I’m back on my Antidepressants” tour.  He is an inspiration for people who suffer from Mental Health challenges.

A special thanks to all of the staff and members who helped to make this episode possible. Huge thanks to comedian Jordan Foisy and Bart Campbell from Laughing Like Crazy for taking time out of his schedule to sit down with us here at RTNT. If you are interested in finding out more about Laughing Like Crazy visit: mooddisorders.ca/program/laughing-like-crazy

This episode originally aired on May 8th, 2019 on CJRU 1280 AM and www.cjru.ca. Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse.

RTNT: www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org

Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/radiototallynormaltoronto

For more information about Progress Place please visit: www.progressplace.org

May 08, 201930:16
Episode 17 RTNT LIVE on CJRU - Nature and Mental Health

Episode 17 RTNT LIVE on CJRU - Nature and Mental Health

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health and is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, which is a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto. On this winning Wednesday April 10, 2019, as always we have an eager member of RTNT host the show.

Today you will hear an interview with Bretton Dabous, who is the Program Manager at Street To Trail, an inspiring organization that takes homeless and marginalized individuals on hiking and overnight camping trips. This flows nicely with our Vox Pops of willing members of Progress Place who discuss their feelings about nature and mental health.

Do you get out in nature as much as you would like? Are you satisfied with the amount of green spaces in Toronto? Ask yourself these questions the next time you feel overwhelmed by the daily grind of the work week.

A special thanks to all of the staff and members who helped to make this episode possible and a huge thanks to Bretton Dabous from Street To Trail for taking time out of his schedule to sit down with us here at RTNT. If you are interested in finding out more about Street To Trail or would like to donate to a worthy cause visit: street-to-trail.ca

This episode originally aired on April 10, 2019 on CJRU 1280 AM and www.cjru.ca. Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse.
RTNT: www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org
Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/radiototallynormaltoronto
For more information about Progress Place please visit: www.progressplace.org

Apr 10, 201934:58
Episode 16 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Spring Cleaning
Mar 13, 201929:05
Episode 15 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Family

Episode 15 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mental Health and Family

Radio Totally Normal Toronto, or RTNT for short, is a voice for community mental health; produced by the members and staff of Progress Place, a mental wellness clubhouse in downtown Toronto. This wonderful Wednesday, February 13th, 2019, we had Ovita, a member of RTNT, hosting the show with Toby helping with tech!

Today we have two interviews lined up for our listeners. They surround topics of Mental Health and Family. Family and a healthy social environment are crucial to anyone’s recovery and maintenance of a First up we spend time with Hilary Brown, a former foreign and war correspondent for CBC News. After that interview we’ll be hearing from Ryan Tucker, the Executive Director of F.A.M.E. for Families.

Family Day is not a national statutory holiday, it is only observed in New Brunswick, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan and in British Columbia. Two other provinces have holidays in February: In PEI Islander Day is celebrated on the 3rd Monday in February and in Manitoba the 3rd Monday in February is the Louis Riel Day holiday.

Family Day was originally created to give people time to spend with their families but it also provides a day off between New Year's Day and Good Friday as they are approximately three months apart.

Here is a short list as to why family and supportive circles are important to any individual living with a mental illness: 
- Act as informal case managers, encouraging and supporting treatment; identifying and - securing housing; and arranging for income assistance
- Provide information on the context of a loved one’s life, to assist professionals in understanding them as a whole person

Studies have shown that family involvement in these roles results in significant benefits in: 
- Decreased rates of hospitalization and relapse
- Enhanced adherence to treatment choices 
- Decreased involvement with the criminal justice system 
- Increased rates of recovery 
- Savings to the mental health and addiction systems

This episode originally aired on February 13th, 2019 on CJRU 1280 AM and www.cjru.ca. Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse.
RTNT: www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org
Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/radiototallynormaltoronto
For more information about Progress Place please visit: www.progressplace.org

Feb 13, 201929:19
Episode 14 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Holiday Mental Health and Tea

Episode 14 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Holiday Mental Health and Tea

Happy New Years' to all! Hope everyone had an excellent Holiday season. Radio Totally Normal Toronto is back at it again ready for 2019. This January 9th show was hosted by Toby with Kam and Ryan working tech.  

The first part of this show talks about the meaning of National Hot Tea Month. RTNT's Elliada interviewed Carina, a tea enthusiast about history, traditions, culture, benefits and fun facts about tea!

A warm, steaming cup of tea is welcome at any time of day especially during the cooler months. Whether as an alternative to coffee in the morning, or as a quiet cap to the end of the day, settling your nerves with Chamomile and Lavender, tea is amazing. We can drink it with lemon, sugar, honey, milk and/or creamer. However we do it, having tea is a great way to celebrate the holidays, mental health and National Tea Month, that can warm our hearts and bodies.

In case you missed it in our December show, you will also hear from members of Progress Place who were interviewed about the holidays. Tara, Dan and Julie talked to various members, exploring how they maintain their mental health during the holiday season.

This episode originally aired on January 9th, 2019 on CJRU 1280 AM and  www.cjru.ca. Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse.

RTNT: www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org/

Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/radiototallynormaltoronto

For more information about Progress Place please visit:  www.progressplace.org 

Jan 09, 201924:13
Episode 13 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Holidays and Mental Health

Episode 13 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Holidays and Mental Health

This month’s RTNT show was hosted by Clinton as we discuss the holiday season.

First up you will hear Johnny from RTNT interview Megan Kee, the executive director of TwentyTwenty Arts. TwentyTwenty Arts is united by a shared belief that art can influence social change and is a powerful tool for erasing stigma and improving access to care. 20/20 is used to refer to visual acuity and a sharpness and clarity of vision, a sentiment closely aligned with their goals and strategy. From November 19th, 2018 to January 6th, 2019, TwentyTwenty Arts is presenting “Life on the Line,” which is a mental health awareness campaign on the TTC that is raising awareness, visibility and funds for the Canadian Mental Health Association Toronto’s (CMHA) Holiday Gift Program.

One-hundred posters will be exhibited on the TTC Subway from November 2018 to January 2019. Twenty unique designs are available for sale on the TTC Shop website; 80% of all sales will be donated to the CMHA Toronto’s Holiday Gift Program. CMHA Toronto created the Holiday Gift Program over 60 years ago for people living with mental health issues who are isolated during the holidays. The program buys gifts and necessities that are assembled by hundreds of volunteers and delivered by front-line workers.

You will also hear from members of Progress Place who were interviewed about the holidays. Tara, Dan and Julie walked around the clubhouse and talked to various members, exploring how they take care of themselves during the holiday season.

This episode originally aired on December 12th, 2018 on CJRU 1280 AM and www.cjru.ca

Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff
of Progress Place Clubhouse

​RTNT Website www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org

For more information about Progress Place please visit: www.progressplace.org

Dec 12, 201828:15
Episode 12 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Movember

Episode 12 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Movember

This month’s RTNT show was in support of Movember’s movement towards increasing awareness about men’s health. Movember is the annual event involving growing mustaches to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health and suicide prevention. The show featured Frank, a student, and Mitch Hermansen, the Development Director at Movember Canada in separate interviews.

First up, Richard, from RTNT, interviewed Frank, a Neuroscience student from the University of Toronto. Frank is involved at Progress Place for a Health and Wellness Initiative as a student placement. Frank discussed neuroscience and the growing awareness in men’s mental health.
In the next interview, we heard RTNT’s Bobby interview Mitch Hermansen, the Development Director at Movember Canada who called in via Skype from British Columbia!

Movember is the leading charity changing the face of men’s health. They understand what works for men, and how to find and fund the most innovative research to have both a global and local impact. The Movember Foundation continuously challenges the status quo and invests quickly in what works. In 15 years they’ve funded more than 1,200 men’s health projects around the world.

Globally, the rate of suicide is alarmingly high, particularly in men. Around the world, on average we lose a man to suicide every minute of every day. Six out of ten suicides are men. Too many are toughing it out and struggling alone. Movember Canada is working towards a world where men and boys take action to be mentally healthy and well, and are supported by their friends, family and community during tough times.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact 911 for immediate help. If you live in Ontario and are thinking about suicide, please call 416-408-HELP. For friends or family who suspect someone who needs suicide prevention please visit ontariosuicidepreventionnetwork.ca or your local emergency services.

For those outside Ontario please visit International Association for Suicide Prevention’s Crisis Centres at www.iasp.info

This episode originally aired on Wednesday, November 14th, 2018 on CJRU 1280AM and cjru.ca.

More information about Movember Canada can be found: ca.movember.com/?home

Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse

RTNT Website: www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org

For more information about Progress Place please visit: www.progressplace.org

Nov 14, 201830:10
Episode 11 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: MENTAL HEALTH DAY SPECIAL 1 HOUR SHOW

Episode 11 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: MENTAL HEALTH DAY SPECIAL 1 HOUR SHOW

This month’s episode of RTNT is a one hour special for World Mental Health Day. Vincent and Annie are our hosts while we explore impact on young people and mental health in a changing world.

​In this episode you will also hear from three different Clubhouses across Canada; Progress Place based in Toronto , Montreal’s Donald Berman Up House and Potential Place in Calgary, Alberta.
First up, RTNT’s Belke explains what a Clubhouse is and the model it follows.

Caitlin, Joey and Cal from Potential Place, a Clubhouse based in Calgary, Alberta, discuss Social Media and Cyber bullying and how it affects our Mental Health. Joey and Caitlin express how social media has impacted their lives and how they manage stress created by social media.
You will also hear an interview with James and Christine from Donald Berman Up House, a clubhouse in Montreal. They share their personal story and their experience with suicide.
This podcast also explores the Transitional Employment Program (TEP) offered by Clubhouses. Progress Place’s Sana shares her experience while working at Minden Gross law firm. This interview ends with three staff members expressing their experience with the TEP program.
Throughout the show you will hear from RTNT’s Bobby, who went to the streets of Toronto and asked various individuals about common myths about Mental Health. For more information about these myths and facts, please visit www.cmha.ca

This episode originally aired on October 10th, 2018 on CJRU 1280 AM and www.cjru.ca

​For more information regarding Clubhouse International please visit www.clubhouse-intl.org
For more information about Potential Place, please visit: www.
potentialplace.org
For more information about Donald Berman Up House,
please visit: www.uphouse.org
To listen to Up House’s radio show please visit: www.radio-up.org
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact 911 for immediate help If you live in Ontario and are thinking about suicide please
call 416 408 HELP
For those outside Ontario please visit International Association for Suicide Prevention’s Crisis Centres at www.iasp.info.com
For more information regarding Cyber Bullying please visit World Federation for Mental Health
For more information regarding bullying please visit www.stopbullying.org

Radio Totally Normal Toronto is produced by the members and staff of Progress Place Clubhouse
RTNT Website www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org
For more information about Progress Place please visit: www.progressplace.org

Oct 10, 201850:01
Episode 10 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Supporting Marginalized Women

Episode 10 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Supporting Marginalized Women

On this episode of RTNT, Kristi hosts as we explore two agencies that support women.

First up you will hear had RTNT’s Saretta interview Patricia O’Connell Sistering's Executive Director, Tina Shapiro the Drop in and Employment Support Coordinator and Karen, a Peer Support Worker from Sistering. Sistering is a multi-service agency supporting women from across Toronto who experience first-hand the impact of marginalization and poverty. They may be homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless. They are a diverse group, from 16 to 80-plus years old: women with substance use or mental health issues; sex workers; women who have interactions with the criminal justice system; women who have experienced, or are experiencing, trauma and violence; immigrant and refugee women; women with health issues and disabilities; and women.

We also hear from RTNT’s Judith who interviewed Harmeet and Kimberly from Up With Women. Up With Women is a registered charity dedicated to helping recently homeless and at-risk women to build sustainable, prosperous careers and businesses with the aim of permanently exiting poverty. Both Harmeet and Kimberly were previous clients of Up With Women and now play a big role in the organization.

This episode originally aired on September 12th, 2018 on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca.

For more information about Sistering, please visit: sistering.org/.

Find Sistering on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sisteringto/ and on Twitter at twitter.com/search?q=sistering&src=typd

For more information about Up With Women, please visit: upwithwomen.org/

Find Up With Women on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UpWithWomen.Org and on Twitter at twitter.com/upwithwomen

RTNT Website
www.radiototallynormaltoronto.org

For more information about Progress Place please visit:
www.progressplace.org

Sep 12, 201824:13
Episode 9 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mobile Crisis Intervention Team (MCIT) and Furthering Our Community (FOCUS)

Episode 9 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Mobile Crisis Intervention Team (MCIT) and Furthering Our Community (FOCUS)

On this episode of RTNT, hosted by Julie, we explored mental health and crisis. In this week's episode we interviewed members of the Mobile Crisis Intervention Team (MCIT) and a member of FOCUS Toronto.
First up, RTNT's Lou sits down with Constable Paul Regan and his partner, nurse Leona Anthony, from MCIT. We gained great insight about the creation, purpose, and benefit of MCIT. The Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams are collaborative partnerships between participating Toronto area hospitals and the Toronto Police Service (TPS). The program partners a mental health nurse and a specially trained police officer to respond to situations involving individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Coverage is now available throughout the City of Toronto.
Next, we had RTNT's Jerry sit down with Evon Smith of Furthering Our Community by Uniting Services (FOCUS) Toronto to learn about their organization. FOCUS Toronto is an innovative Community Safety and Well-Being Initiative led by the City of Toronto, United Way Toronto and Toronto Police Service that aims to reduce crime, victimization and improve community resiliency and well-being.
This episode originally aired on July 11, 2018 on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca.
More information about the Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams can be found: 
http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/community/mcit.php
More information about FOCUS Toronto can be found: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/public-safety-alerts/community-safety-programs/focus-toronto/
Songs used can be found on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

Jul 11, 201824:44
Episode 8 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: The Toronto Writer's Collective: Expressive Writing and Mental Health

Episode 8 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: The Toronto Writer's Collective: Expressive Writing and Mental Health

On this episode of RTNT, Jerry hosts as we dive deep into The Toronto Writers Collective. The TWC was founded in 2012 to encourage voice and illuminate undiscovered strength in Toronto’s most vulnerable communities. 

First up, RTNT’s Julie sits down with Erdine Hope, a TWC Facilitator to gain insight into the inner workings of the workshops. Next, Luis speaks with Roberta Taylor, a longtime member and a newly trained facilitator. Roberta also shares a few wonderful pieces she has created through participating in the TWC workshops, with a bit of sound design by the RTNT team. Our final interview is with Dr. Kelly McShane, a professor and researcher from Ryerson University. Emily and Dr. McShane explore the role of measuring the effectiveness of community based mental health programs. As always, immense thanks to our guests and everyone who helped us put together this episode.

This episode originally aired on June 13 2018 on CJRU 1280AM and cjru.ca

Find the Toronto Writer's Collective on Facebook and Twitter

Music on this episode is by Broke for Free

Sounds used can be found on freesound.org
freesound.org/people/haldigital97/sounds/241824/
freesound.org/people/videog/sounds/149190/
freesound.org/people/listeningto…les/sounds/323048/
freesound.org/people/mario1298/sounds/181255/

Jun 13, 201830:59
Episode 7 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Hip Hop Youth and Mental Health

Episode 7 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Hip Hop Youth and Mental Health

Radio Totally Normal Toronto sat down with Mahad and Adrian from Unity Charity to talk about youth, hip hop and mental health. Unity helps youth to flourish using a variety of programs designed to empower youth. This episode originally aired on May 9th 2018 on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca

May 09, 201818:23
Episode 6 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Healthy Food and Mental Health

Episode 6 RTNT LIVE on CJRU: Healthy Food and Mental Health

FoodShare is a non-profit organization that works with communities and schools to deliver healthy food and food education. FoodShare's Executive Director Paul Taylor joins Jerry Gluckowsky to discuss food justice and the implications on one's mental health. Rae hosts this episode, which originally aired on March 14th on CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca.

At first glance, healthy food and mental health might not have clear links. But while researching and recording our Mental Health and Money episode, the cost of food became a topic of conversation for the RTNT crew. As well, Jerry, who interviewed Paul Taylor, had picked up a Good Food box at St. James Church. All of this led us to FoodShare and a deeper understanding of food insecurity here in Toronto. If you are not sure what food insecurity is, check out this month's episode and the helpful  infographic below.

Mar 14, 201822:04
Episode 5 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Mental Health, Youth and Homelessness: A Conversation with Yonge Street Mission's Jesse Sudirgo

Episode 5 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Mental Health, Youth and Homelessness: A Conversation with Yonge Street Mission's Jesse Sudirgo

Since October 2017, Radio Totally Normal has expanded to have a live radio show on Ryerson University's CJRU 1280 AM and cjru.ca.
The
Yonge Street Mission is an organization in the downtown sector that aims to help support Toronto's most susceptible population. They aid families, children, youth, and even communities existing in daily poverty. Jerry from RTNT sat down with Jesse Sudirgo, Director of Street Involved Services, to discuss mental health, homelessness, and youth. Hosting the show is RTNT member Chris but, as alway, this episode was made possible by a large number of members and staff of Progress Place.  
We love this episode and we hope you enjoy it too!

Feb 14, 201825:48
Episode 4 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Circus Arts and Mental Health

Episode 4 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Circus Arts and Mental Health

On today's episode of RTNT we jump into CIRCUS!! And how it relates to mental health, of course. RTNT member Julie speaks with Rachel, Izzy and Dai (pictured above) about Social Circus Circle or SoCirc, for short. 

SoCirc is a Toronto based non-profit organization, that uses circus to provide social development and support through the physical activity and creativity of circus arts, for young people living on the margins, 14-29 years old. Social Circus is a concept that uses circus arts as a tool for social change.

The reason we at RTNT hooked onto this topic in the first place is because RTNT member Gaetan is a circus performer and began his practice through a social circus program located in Montreal, Quebec, called Cirque Hors Piste. He shares some of his experiences throughout the episode as well, and he put together a list of youtube videos that demonstrate various circus arts in today's episode. Click on the photos ion the slideshow below to see the videos he chose.

Enjoy!

Sep 13, 201729:47
Episode 3 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Mental Health and Money
May 10, 201747:01
Episode 2 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Creativity and Mental Health Part 1

Episode 2 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Creativity and Mental Health Part 1

The RTNT crew is so happy to bring you our second episode. A little late, but better late than never, right?

This episode explores comedy and theatre as ways of exploring and understanding what it means to live with mental illness. 

(3mo4), (11m13)
Our first two interviews are with Bart Campbell and Michael Arnold  from
Laughing Like Crazy, a peer support program that comes out of the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario, in partnership with STAR Learning at St. Michael's Hospital, here in Toronto. A few RTNT'ers took in their last performance in December 2016, so we can tell you that the jokes coming out of Laughing Like Crazy left us (ahem) laughing like crazy :)

(18m00)
Also in this show, Grant Ellis, a spoken word artist and Progress Place member, shares a piece about his life in Toronto entitled Justify. It's a beautiful piece and we're sure you will agree, what.a.voice.

(19m05)
Rounding out the show, we have an interview with Toronto writer, performer, and speaker Laurel Brady. We discussed the links between mental health and performance, and specifically her one woman show Surfacing. ​You can find out more about Laurel by visiting her website

Bookending our show, we have some jokes from Progress Place members. We hope they give you a giggle.

Music in today's show is Instrumental #2 Revisited by Gillicuddy. Find more work by this artist here.

Thank you to all of our guests and contributors, as well as to the whole Progress Place community for their ideas and support.

​Enjoy the episode!

Mar 08, 201729:04
Episode 1 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Origin Story
Jan 05, 201728:45
Episode 0 RTNT LIVE on CRJU: Talk About It!
Dec 01, 201604:37