In this powerful throwback episode originally recorded in October 2024, Resilience Gone Wild host Jessica Morgenthal sits down one-on-one with Dr. Phil Richmond, a veterinarian and passionate mental health advocate. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this re-release sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health crisis within the veterinary profession—and the strength it takes to ask for help.

Dr. Richmond shares his deeply personal story of recovery from substance abuse and suicidal ideation, offering both vulnerability and hope. Jessica and Dr. Richmond explore how intentional breathing, reframing negative thoughts, and building psychological safety in workplaces can foster resilience. This conversation is a reminder that emotional well-being matters—for veterinarians, for caregivers, and for all of us.

Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers tangible tools and a powerful message: you are not alone.

This episode was part 2 of a 2 part episodes about alligators and breathing. Check out episode 1 here: https://pod.link/1765376951/episode/2c44901c343d2fc22c26896f7c369252

Takeaways

• This is a special re-release from October 2024 for Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Dr. Phil Richmond opens up about his journey through substance abuse and suicidal ideation.
• Veterinarians are at heightened risk for mental health challenges—and deserve more support.
• Breathing techniques and mindfulness can reduce stress and improve daily functioning.
• Negative self-talk can be disrupted with intentional, compassionate reframing.
• Psychological safety in the workplace is essential for well-being and retention.
• Building resilience requires practice, patience, and community.
• Positive psychology offers evidence-based tools for personal and organizational growth.
• Support systems are key—no one should struggle alone.
• Asking for help is one of the most courageous steps we can take.

Sound Bites

• “Resilience isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build.”
• “No one should have to suffer in silence.”
• “Breathing intentionally helped bring me back from the edge.”
• “Asking for help isn’t weak—it’s wildly brave.”
• “Mental health care should be a part of every workplace strategy.”

Resources

• If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org
• Not One More Vet (NOMV): https://www.nomv.org
• Learn more about Dr. Phil Richmond: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiprichmond/

Connect With Us

Listen Now: https://pod.link/J4yd77

Share your thoughts with host Jessica Morgenthal: jessica@winwinwinmindset.com

Explore More: Visit Resilience Gone Wild for show notes, photos, and resources: https://winwinwinmindset.com/the-resilience-gone-wild-podcast/

Produced by Balancing Life’s Issues (BLI Studios) in partnership with a WinWinWin Mindset.