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The Just A Mom Podcast
Trailer
Bonus
Episode 57
Season 1
Episode 57: Will Gurley--an update
Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, where we kick off Season Five with a heartfelt and personal update. In today's episode, Susie is excited to be joined in the studio by a very special guest – her son, Will. As Susie expresses her joy at having Will home for the recording, the focus of this episode is centered around providing listeners with a detailed and intimate update on Will's life.
School Journey:
- Will details his transition from Shenandoah Conservatory to Mid-American University, studying acting and directing, and anticipated graduation next year.
- Will reflects on his time at TCU, the decision to transfer to Shenandoah, and the challenges he faced with anxiety and social circles.
Shenandoah Experience:
- Will discusses feeling isolated and the impact on his mental health.
- Will candidly opens up about his ongoing mental health struggles, highlighting that transferring to Shenandoah didn't eliminate the challenges.
Support and Intervention:
- Susie intervenes after Will expresses depression, ensuring his safety and exploring therapy and medication adjustments.
- Will's psychiatrist increases his dosage to address current circumstances, emphasizing the importance of medication adjustments.
Loneliness and Isolation:
- Despite a busy schedule, Will shares his experience of loneliness, challenges with roommates, and feeling like an outsider.
- Will discusses challenges in classes, rehearsals, and breaking into established relationships as a "freshman sophomore."
Emergency Visit:
- Susie narrates the decision to fly Will home during a difficult month, emphasizing the difference between FaceTime and in-person observations.
- Will contemplates alternatives to going back to school, expressing determination not to give up and considering job options.
Drive Back Home:
- The 16.5-hour drive home reflects on Will's hesitation to return to Shenandoah, navigating a challenging storm, and the importance of being together.
- Will shares positive aspects of the summer back home, acknowledging the internal struggle of giving college another try.
Decision to Return to Shenandoah:
- Family discussions lead to the decision to encourage another try, emphasizing the importance of auditions and a new class.
- Will gets callbacks for several shows at Shenandoah, receiving positive feedback from industry professional professors.
- Susie praises Will's lead role as the only non-senior cast, highlighting his experience playing dark characters.
Challenges Faced:
- Will reflect on challenges during the rehearsal and performance period, discussing the disconnect between personal values and the adaptation.
Closing Thoughts:
- Susie summarizes Will's journey from struggles to returning to Shenandoah, teases upcoming episodes, and expresses gratitude for Will's openness.
- Susie asks Will about mental health preparations, leading to discussions on counseling as a couple, premarital counseling, and planning.
- Will discusses planning with fiancée Kayley, seeking advice from experienced couples, and staying flexible.
Therapy and Professional Support:
- Susie emphasizes Will's ongoing medication and regular psychiatrist visits, recognizing the need for professional help.
- Will discusses ongoing therapy with personal therapist Dana Dahl, encouraging everyone to benefit from therapy.
- Will emphasizes the importance of being proactive and seeking support, acknowledging that mental health challenges require ongoing effort.
Support System:
- Will describes reaching out to his wife, parents, and therapist if needed, emphasizing the importance of a united front.
- Discussions highlight the reality of ups and downs in every marriage, with Will emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.
- Will seeks advice from experienced couples, recognizing their wisdom and acknowledging ongoing struggles with depression.
Acknowledging Personal Growth:
- Despite ongoing challenges, Will acknowledges personal growth and positive changes, emphasizing the non-linear nature of the mental health journey.
- Recap of "The Brightest It's Ever Been":
- Susie recaps "The Brightest It's Ever Been," a play about anxiety, sharing its impact and plans for a regional tour.
Fundraising Opportunity:
- A fundraising The Culture House link (designate Balladeer Theatre Company) is mentioned for supporting the regional tour, encouraging contributions from those interested in mental health and theater.
- Susie shares her impact from the play, urging listeners to attend when it tours and acknowledging bias as the director.
Encouragement and Gratitude:
- Susie expresses gratitude for Will's openness, encourages listeners, and emphasizes the non-linear nature of mental health journeys.
- Susie mentions potential future updates from Will, thanks listeners for their support, and appreciates Will for the conversation.
- Closing remarks express gratitude, anticipation for future episodes, and thanks to the listeners for their support.