In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we talk with a Grand Rapids musician who turned heartbreak into hope after losing his brother to suicide. He shares how creating his song “Finding Peace” helped him process his grief — and how his brother’s death, while painful, is an important part of the story of his life, shaping who he is and the compassion he carries forward.

We explore how music can be a coping tool, how telling our stories reduces stigma, and how hope can grow in the most difficult places.

In this episode of the be nice. podcast, we sit down with Susan Meekhof to explore her powerful mental health journey and the role art has played as a protective factor in her life. Susan shares how creativity became both a refuge and a tool for resilience — and how she now uses her lived experience to educate others, spark conversations, and promote mental health awareness. Her story is a reminder that healing can take many forms, and that sharing our journeys helps empower others to take action.

Join us for a powerful conversation on the be nice. podcast with former Detroit Lions quarterback Eric Hipple, who turned personal tragedy into a lifelong mission to break the stigma around mental illness. After losing his 15-year-old son to suicide, Eric began using his platform to promote mental fitness, resilience, and hope. His journey from professional athlete to mental health advocate reminds us that real strength comes from vulnerability, reflection, and the courage to speak up—for ourselves and for others.