#159: Former TV Reporter Was Suicidal But Now Helps You Tackle The Mental Game

Run The Race

He battled depression for 15 years, half his life. I worked at a TV station with him 7+ years ago and didn't even know it. During this Mental Health Awareness Month, Brandon Saho is this week's guest, being open and vulnerable about his journey, and how he got help that saved his life! Make sure to subscribe to "Run The Race" to hear more inspiring stories like his. (3:45) We start off talking about the stigma of mental health, which this now-former TV sports reporter hopes to break by with his own podcast called "The Mental Game" - talking weekly to pro athletes, musicians, celebrities about mental health. This comes a year after he wrote an open letter (that went viral) while checking into a hospital. (10:24) How did his depression start at age 14? As the years went by, alcohol played a big role. Going far from home to work in TV didn't help. Brandon talks about serious suicidal thoughts of jumping off a bridge, laying in traffic. While he appeared on the outside like he was living the dream, covering sports in his hometown of Cincinnati OH, he was lost...wrote a goodbye letter, took pills, but woke up. What are the (18:25) red flags for all of us to look out for, especially when depression is disguised? You may save a life. Brandon also has two key pieces of advice for those feeling like they want to end it. (24:20) Getting help, going to therapy, talking to your family are big steps! And it's a misconception that it makes you look weak. Brandon says "therapy is cool" and its like having an unbiased coach. Fitness and faith also fit into his mental health healing. This "casual Catholic" prays all the time, and also feels much better when going to the gym. But he doesn't miss working in TV, the stress and odd hours. Now, he's a one-man-show with (34:45) The MENTAL GAME podcast, going all over the nation to interview well-known guests, even getting national attention for his recent chat with QB Joe Burrow's parents. Brandon describes the behind-the-scenes of this podcast now being his full time job. Check it out on YouTube too: https://www.youtube.com/@MentalGamePods. (43:35) After drinking almost daily for the last 6-7 years, Brandon made it to more than 100 days sober! He feels so much better vs. being depressed when drunk. To go with nonalcohol drinks, what food does he recommend in Cincy? Hear about Skyline Chili. (51:51) I close the episode in prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast! Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and all past episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.