#98 Empowering Mental Health: A Conversation with Karen A. McCracken

Prepare to be inspired as "Mental Health Today" welcomes a true superstar, Karen A. McCracken, in an episode filled with wisdom, humor, and profound insights. Karen, a renowned Christian speaker, Amazon Best Selling author, and host of "The Woman Inspired Podcast," has graced nearly 400 women's conferences and retreats across the United States. Her mission is nothing short of remarkable: spreading the gospel message while bringing hope, laughter, and biblical wisdom to women from all walks of life. But Karen is far more than just an accomplished speaker and author. She wears many hats, including being a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors, a Disaster Relief Chaplain, and a Family Peer Support Specialist. In this episode, she shares her journey, one that began with a personal battle against Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) during a time when mental health issues remained largely unspoken. Growing up in an era where the conversation around mental health was shrouded in stigma, Karen's experiences navigating life with OCD were challenging. She candidly reveals how her first marriage faced difficulties related to her OCD, eventually leading to divorce. However, Karen's story is one of resilience and strength. Love found her again as she remarried, this time to a man who carried the heavy burden of severe PTSD from his time as a firefighter and paramedic. Their family further expanded when they adopted a son born with fetal alcohol syndrome and grappling with OCD. Karen's unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy shines brightly throughout this conversation. She underscores the pervasive nature of mental health issues in our society, emphasizing that she has encountered individuals struggling with these challenges in every corner of her extensive travels. A powerful theme emerges as we delve into the profound power of forgiveness. Karen is deeply passionate about this subject, and her upcoming book, "A Woman Let Go: Release the Grip of Unforgiveness," echoes this fervor. The discussion highlights how forgiveness, whether extended to others or oneself, possesses transformative potential for mental health and overall well-being. As this captivating episode draws to a close, Karen McCracken's infectious spirit and wisdom leave an indelible mark. Her journey, marked by personal trials and triumphant resilience, casts her as a superstar in the world of mental health advocacy and inspirational storytelling. "Mental Health Today" continues its mission to illuminate stories like Karen's, championing the importance of mental health awareness and the incredible strength of the human spirit. Stay tuned for more engaging conversations on this essential podcast, where everyday heroes like Karen shine brilliantly. Visit Karens Website to leaarn more: https://womaninspired.org   For more about Mental Health Today, visit our: Website:      https://www.thejar.live/about-mental-health-today-by-the-jar-foundation Full episodes with video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaTqB1dhDvl0Oh505ysdxTg Facebook:      https://www.facebook.com/podcast.thejar Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/thejar_podcast/ Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation. Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.   For more about Mental Health Today, visit our: Website:      https://www.thejar.live/about-mental-health-today-by-the-jar-foundation Full episodes with video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaTqB1dhDvl0Oh505ysdxTg Facebook:      https://www.facebook.com/podcast.thejar Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/thejar_podcast/ Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation. Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.