90: Depression Doesn't Always Look Sad- ASMM Small Business Connections

In this episode of Small Business Connections, Ann talks about how depression doesn't always look sad with The Mental Health Comedian, Motivational Speaker, and TEDx Talk Trainer, Frank King. As a suicide prevention and postvention speaker, Frank has been on TEDx Talk several times. As a keynote speaker, he talks with companies and meets with their teams about mental health, suicide prevention and postvention. He talks about the serious side and also adds some humor to educate people in knowing the signs of depression and the importance of speaking up about mental health.

We discuss:

-Why he became a comedian

-His TEDx Talks

-How he became a TEDx Talks coach

-Tips for you to apply to be on your own TEDx Talk

-You are not alone

Frank has been a stand-up comedian for 34 years and joins us from Eugene, Oregon. Stand-up comedy is his way of making a living and a difference in the world. He found his way to Tedx Talks when his wife mentioned he should apply. As a person who battles his depression and chronic suicidal ideation, Frank shares his self-care plan and the analogy of Sisyphus, his rock and the hill.

Frank shares how to apply to invited to speak on a TEDx Talk. You have to have an idea worth sharing, something you are passionate about. Google TEDx Talk applications to see what is already out there and be creative in your title and hook.

Ann and Frank stress that you can find hope in something you love. They discuss hopelessness and helplessness and stress the importance of if you think someone is showing signs of depression, ask them if they are having thoughts of suicide. Ask them if they have a plan. If they are having these thoughts and do not have a plan, make the phone call to the crisis line. If you are not physically with them, call the police to do a wellness check. You can make a difference and you can save a life.

Franks Favorite Books of Business:

The Message of You: Turn Your Life Story into a Money-Making Speaking Career by Judy Carter

Liv to Tell by Olivia Sain

You may reach Frank at each of these links:

Your TEDxCoach.com

TheMentalHealthComedian.com

858-405-5653

Also mentioned in this episode:

Suicide Crisis Line Text- 741741

Burgers & Bands for Suicide Prevention- this charity is where Ann expresses her passion for stopping suicide. Burgers & Bands is an event built in and around our, Anne Arundel County community to not only bring awareness and raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention but also to show people in our community that they are not alone.

The Small Business Connections Podcast is hosted by Ann Brennan, owner of ASMM Digital Marketing. The podcast was created as a means of helping her clients build a community around their brands. Since its inception, the podcast has grown to include guests from around the world and has been listened to in over 20 countries.

Thank you for listening, be sure to subscribe and most importantly- #YouAreNotAlone