#39 Mental Health Today With Jon Katz

Welcome to "Mental Health Today." Today, we have a remarkable guest whose personal journey from pain and despair to transformation and purpose serves as an inspiration to us all. Please join us in welcoming Jon Katz, founder of Foodways Coaching and a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health challenges. Jon's story is one of resilience and redemption. Raised in the intense environment of the Upper West Side of Manhattan, he experienced both the richness of cultural exposure and the weight of intergenerational pain. His early adulthood was marked by a tumultuous period in New Orleans, where he found himself immersed in a cycle of self-destructive behavior and a lack of commitment. In his mid-20s, Jon embarked on a transformative journey, traveling the world and engaging in sustainable local agriculture projects. This experience fostered his love for local food, food systems, and alternative ways of living. However, he soon realized that running away from his inner struggles was an impossible endeavor. It was a devastating breakup in late 2020, coupled with a history of poor choices and habits, that pushed Jon to the edge of despair. At the age of 34, he found himself battling obesity, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. But within this darkness, Jon discovered the power to change his life. With unwavering determination, Jon turned his pain into purpose. He established a citywide food rescue program that feeds thousands of families each week, utilizing edible but unsalable food donations that would have otherwise gone to waste. This initiative became a manifestation of his own healing journey, an opportunity to address the broken food system while nourishing his own soul. Jon's path to personal growth took an unexpected turn when he experienced a life-altering apartment fire in 2022. Stripped of material possessions, he gained a profound understanding that true value lies within our internal assets. Even in the face of adversity, Jon continued his mission, undeterred by the challenges he encountered. Driven by the transformative power of coaching, Jon discovered that there is no greater fulfillment than helping others overcome their pain and reclaim their lives. Having emerged from his own struggles, he now dedicates himself to guiding individuals out of the depths of suicidality, anxiety, depression, repression, and denial. Jon's life's mission is to empower others to step back from negativity, embrace positive mental health, and find the strength to rebuild their lives. Join us as we delve into Jon's incredible journey, exploring the lessons he has learned, the wisdom he imparts, and the hope he brings to those who need it most. Welcome, Jon Katz, to "Mental Health Today."