In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Rachael Steil — author of Running in Silence and founder of the Running in Silence. A former All-American runner and award-winning coach, Rachael shares her lived experience with disordered eating and the culture of silence in athletics. We discuss warning signs, performance pressure, and how coaches, parents, and athletes can create healthier, more supportive environments where recovery — and thriving — are possible.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

In this episode of the be nice. Podcast, we sit down with Eleni Sabracos, who shares her journey of navigating mental health in the fast-paced worlds of New York City and the film and entertainment industry. We explore the power of community, the role of faith, and the importance of setting boundaries. Eleni opens up about the challenges of self-discovery, including how aging and a still-developing frontal lobe impact decision-making, and the sometimes tricky process of finding the right therapist. Tune in for an honest conversation about balance, growth, and the tools that help us thrive in demanding environments.

On this episode of the be nice. podcast, we talk with John and Gail Urso, founders of Kevin’s Song, about how losing their son Kevin to suicide led them to take action in suicide prevention. What began as a commitment to learn and share more has grown into a mission focused on education, connection, and support for survivors.

John and Gail share why they started Kevin’s Song and how their annual suicide prevention conference brings together professionals, advocates, and people with lived experience to break stigma and strengthen prevention efforts.

This conversation highlights the importance of open dialogue, community, and hope in suicide prevention.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

In this episode, Bella Buck—Christy’s daughter—shares what it was like growing up with be nice. From witnessing the organization’s early days to now being an integral part of the be nice. team and programs, Bella reflects on how her role has evolved over time. She also opens up about her own mental health journey, offering honest insight into growth, resilience, and the lasting impact of having the tools and confidence to take action.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

In this episode, we sit down with talented artist Ivan Jenson, who has discovered a powerful creative release through his art. Ivan shares how painting has become more than just a hobby—it’s a way to process emotions, find balance, and connect with his inner self. Join us as we explore the therapeutic power of creativity and the journey of turning passion into personal expression.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we talk with a Grand Rapids musician who turned heartbreak into hope after losing his brother to suicide. He shares how creating his song “Finding Peace” helped him process his grief — and how his brother’s death, while painful, is an important part of the story of his life, shaping who he is and the compassion he carries forward.

We explore how music can be a coping tool, how telling our stories reduces stigma, and how hope can grow in the most difficult places.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we sit down with Susan Meekhof to explore her powerful mental health journey and the role art has played as a protective factor in her life. Susan shares how creativity became both a refuge and a tool for resilience — and how she now uses her lived experience to educate others, spark conversations, and promote mental health awareness. Her story is a reminder that healing can take many forms, and that sharing our journeys helps empower others to take action.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.

In this episode, Brittany Midolo shares her extraordinary and painful journey, one that led to a life-changing moment in a courtroom where she was charged with the death of her husband. Unlike many stories of addiction, Brittany didn’t grow up in crisis or extreme hardship — she came from a middle-class family in a good community. Yet a series of events and decisions spiraled into a nightmare that almost destroyed her.

Through courage, love, and sacrifice, Brittany overcame addiction and emerged as a rare example of hope. Her story is not just about survival; it’s about resilience, recovery, and the possibility of redemption. Whether you’ve experienced addiction, know someone who has, or want to understand one of today’s most destructive social problems, Brittany’s journey offers insight, inspiration, and hope.

The be nice. Podcast is produced by WKTV Community Media.