30: Starts With Me (with Mike Stroh)

30: Starts With Me (with Mike Stroh)

Mike Stroh’s story is one of transformation and resilience. Growing up in Toronto, Mike was not only a drug user but also a dealer, navigating a labyrinth of anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. But his challenges didn’t stop there—he also took on the role of caregiver for his brother, who lives with schizophrenia.

In this episode of Pop& Down, Shaunna Quin sits down with Mike to explore his journey from those turbulent teenage years to becoming an advocate for mental health and addiction recovery through his organization, Starts With Me. Mike opens up about seeing himself and his friends reflected in the gritty film 'Kids' by Larry Clark, and how pro-skateboarder Rodney Mullen and rapper Eminem became unexpected sources of inspiration.

These pop culture icons provided a mirror to his own struggles and triumphs, offering solace and motivation during his darkest times. But Mike’s story doesn’t end with personal anecdotes. He has channeled his experiences into action, facilitating mental health programs and workshops for youth in Toronto. His message? Mindfulness and self-care are paramount in the journey to recovery.

Through Starts With Me, he aims to help others find their path to healing, emphasizing the importance of accepting one's circumstances and practicing kindness towards oneself. This episode is a raw and relatable conversation that dives deep into the intersections of addiction, mental health, and pop culture. Whether you’re grappling with similar issues or supporting someone who is, Mike’s insights offer both hope and practical advice.

Tune in for an engaging discussion that might just change the way you see your own struggles and triumphs.