Rural Policy Partners

See Where Jason, Renee, and Brent Have Been Making an Impact! Our new map highlights the journey across the U.S. where Jason Haglund, Renee S., and Brent Schulte have shared powerful insights into behavioral health, rural healthcare, and building resilient communities. Each tractor marks a city they’ve visited, including Tuscaloosa, AL, Annapolis, MD, Champaign, IL, Fort Pierre, SD, and many more. From tackling the unique challenges of rural behavioral health to discussing effective ways to support mental wellness in farming communities, they’re driving change with actionable strategies. They’ve covered topics like managing stress, burnout, and addiction in rural areas, addressing policy and workforce challenges, and guiding conversations on mental health in the workplace. Check out the map and see how they’re inspiring communities nationwide—have they been to a city near you? #CommunityImpact #BehavioralHealth #RuralHealthcare #HealthLeadership

Kick off our Workplace Series on the Stepping In It podcast with "Why Mental Health Matters at Work"! In this episode, Jason Haglund and Renee S. dive into the powerful impact of mental health on today’s workplace, covering essential topics like stress, burnout, suicide prevention, addiction, and anxiety. After our signature whiny farmer intro, the two get real about starting these critical conversations and share both success stories and lessons from missteps in mental health training. Discover why investing in workplace mental health is a game-changer—from reducing stigma and supporting managers to creating a healthier, more productive environment for everyone. You can listen here on Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gV-5jJQh Watch this episode on Youtube: https://lnkd.in/gNMkEbEM #MentalHealthAtWork #WorkplaceWellness #BurnoutPrevention #EmployeeWellbeing

We Want to Hear from You! Your voice matters, and we’re always looking to dive into topics on the Stepping In It podcast that resonate with you. What issues, challenges, or conversations are on your mind? Whether it's rural mental health, innovative solutions in behavioral health, or stories of resilience and recovery—we’re here to bring them to light. Drop your podcast topic ideas in the comments or send us a message. Let’s work together to keep these important conversations going and inspire real change. We’re excited to hear what matters to you! #MentalHealth #RuralHealth #PodcastTopics #CommunityHealth

In the latest episode of the Stepping In It podcast, Renee S. and Jason Haglund bring you highlights from the VitAL Alabama Conference with the National Association of Rural Mental Health (NARMH) in Tuscaloosa! From Johnny Manziel’s inspiring story of resilience to Dr. Ashley Norwood Strickland’s mission to expand mental health access, this episode digs into the unique mental health challenges—and solutions—facing rural America. Join Renee and Jason to hear proven strategies for navigating and improving behavioral health access in rural areas, insights on how rural settings shape mental health needs, and practical solutions to bridge these gaps. Discover the game-changing role of technology and innovations transforming rural mental health, plus key conversations on 988 implementation, suicide prevention, and maternal health in underserved communities. Whether you’re a mental health professional, community advocate, or passionate about rural wellness, this episode is packed with insights to drive real change. Let’s champion a healthier future together! You can listen here on Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gV-5jJQh Watch this episode on Youtube: https://lnkd.in/gvNjfYHJ #RuralMentalHealth #CommunityWellness #NARMH #HealthcareAccess

Brent Schulte and Jason Haglund recently led an engaging session on the critical improvements needed in Wisconsin's behavioral health system at the Wisconsin Mental Health & Substance Use Conference - hosted by University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point - with over 100 in-person attendees and many more joining via livestream! Their discussion highlighted the pressing challenges faced by rural, remote, and frontier communities, particularly around system readiness, workforce development, and care coordination. They also explored the gap between policy intentions and real-world implementation, offering actionable solutions to address these issues. Thank you to all who joined—together, we’re driving change for a healthier Wisconsin! #BehavioralHealth #RuralHealth #HealthSystemReform #HealthcareLeadership

What happens when the game ends? In the latest episode of the Stepping In It podcast, Renee S. and Jason Haglund take a closer look at the incredible highs and devastating lows of Johnny Manziel, the football phenom who took the sports world by storm after leading Texas A&M to a historic victory over Alabama. Manziel's rapid rise to fame, including becoming the youngest Heisman Trophy winner, was followed by personal battles with substance use and mental health that derailed his career. In this episode, listeners will learn: -How young athletes can overcome the pressures of fame and expectations -The importance of mental health in maintaining long-term success, on and off the field -Johnny Manziel’s candid reflections on addiction, recovery, and what he would do differently -The impact of social media on an athlete's mental health and personal identity -Practical mental wellness strategies like journaling for athletes navigating high-pressure environments Manziel’s story serves as a stark reminder that success in the spotlight comes with its own set of challenges. His message to the next generation? Stay grounded, take care of your mental health, and be careful what you wish for. You can listen here on Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gV-5jJQh Watch this episode on Youtube: https://lnkd.in/gKGh2sp3 #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthcare #Recovery #SubstanceUse

Stay Informed on Rural Healthcare and More! Sign up for our monthly newsletter to get the latest strategies and expert advice on rural healthcare, plus updates on where Renee and Jason have been throughout the month and a recap of the latest Stepping In It podcast episodes! Whether you're looking for practical insights or want to stay connected with the rural health community, our newsletter has you covered. Don’t miss out—subscribe today! https://lnkd.in/gfUNVQcV #Newsletter #RuralHealthcare #SteppingInItPodcast #RuralPolicyPartners

Cannabis, Psychedelics, and Vaping: Is It Really Safer? In the latest podcast episode of the Stepping In It podcast, Jason Haglund and Renee S. dive deep into the growing trends of cannabis, psychedelics, and vaping. As vaping becomes a more popular method for consuming THC and other substances, is it actually a safer alternative? The pair explore the impact on lung health, the harmful chemicals in e-liquids, and the rising popularity of Delta-8 THC. Tune in to: -Navigate the behavioral health system with confidence -Learn the surprising health risks of vaping vs. smoking -Uncover the potential dangers of cannabis use, including its link to psychosis -Understand how new legalization policies are affecting workplaces nationwide -Explore the significant influence of vaping on youth and public health Let’s get informed on these critical issues and start important conversations about health, safety, and community impact. You can listen here on Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gV-5jJQh Watch this episode on Youtube: https://lnkd.in/gT4x2FqN #VapingRisks #CannabisSafety #BehavioralHealth #WorkplacePolicies #PublicHealth

Are you a Knoxville community member or staff with Knoxville Hospital and Clinics? Grab your lunch and join Jason Haglund tomorrow for a Lunch and Learn at the KHC Learning Center from 12:15 - 12:45 PM! Can't join in person? You can still catch it live on Facebook over on the KHC Facebook page. #LunchAndLearn #EmotionalWellbeing #RuralHealthcare

Join Jason Haglund at the ABA Agricultural Bankers Conference, hosted by the American Bankers Association, in Milwaukee! In November, Jason will lead an important session titled "Guiding Borrowers Through Challenging Conversations" at this year's conference. Agricultural professionals often juggle the pressures of business demands and family expectations, which can create intense stress and emotional strain. In this session, Jason will explore effective strategies for navigating these tough conversations, offering practical tools for supporting borrowers through periods of uncertainty and stress, while fostering better decision-making. 📅 Date: November 12-15, 2024 📍 Location: Milwaukee, WI Register today! #ABAConference #AgriculturalBanking #FarmLeadership #EffectiveCommunication