Mental Health

Stream on: Apple Spotify Empowering Through Songwriting Adam Christoferson exemplifies the transformative power of music and community. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, Adam shared his experiences and insights of using music as a vehicle for empowerment, particularly for marginalized and neglected communities. His journey, from facing personal challenges to founding Musical Intervention serves as an inspiring example of how pursuing one’s passion can lead to creating a positive impact in the communities around us.   The Transformative Power of Music and Community Adam’s journey began with a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of music and the sense of community it fosters. He emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for individuals who may be cast out of society for expressing themselves differently, highlighting the need for these individuals to be celebrated for their differences. This sentiment forms the cornerstone of Musical Intervention, a space he created where people from diverse backgrounds and situations come together to play music, build connections, and find a sense of belonging.   Redefining Purpose In our conversation, Adam delved into the significance of purpose, stating that it should be something passionate, serve the greater good, and hopefully be sustainable financially even if that’s not always the case. His message emphasizes the idea that purpose isn’t just about individual fulfillment, but about positively impacting and uplifting others as well. Discussing his purpose, we talked about his emphasis on giving people their identity back through their passion and expression, rather than through their a diagnosis of an illness. This approach challenges the traditional hierarchical dynamic between a traditional therapist/doctor and patient relationship, offering a more empowering and positive outlook on supporting individuals that need support.   Mental Health and Music Adam’s experiences playing and writing music with people from all walks of life as well as his collaborations with Yale University on using music to positively impact mental health reflect his dedication healing through music. He believes in breaking down barriers and creating inclusive spaces where people can engage in the transformative power of music together, regardless of their circumstances. Adam’s previous efforts to provide open mic nights at soup kitchens, working with the homeless, and partnering with the Connecticut Mental Health Center demonstrates how he has translated his passion for music into concrete opportunities.   Building a Safe Sober Space The journey towards creating Musical Intervention was not without its challenges. From securing a physical space to facing obstacles from city entities and landlords, Adam’s resilience and commitment to his vision have been unwavering. His ability to attract community support and secure financial backing from the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services further underscores the impact and sustainability of his work. Through his perseverance and determination, Adam has not only created a safe and sober environment through music but he has also advocated for the needs of those he serves.   Inspiring Others to Find Their Purpose Adam’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how individuals can work towards their purpose in ways that positively impact their communities. By leveraging the transformative power of music and creating inclusive spaces, he has shown that purpose isn’t just about personal fulfillment but also about empowering and uplifting others. His story encourages us to seek out our passions, overcome challenges, and work towards creating positive change in the world. Adam’s journey with Musical Intervention is a testament to the profound impact that can be achieved when passion, purpose, and community come together in harmony. Adam Christoferson’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment, demonstrating that music and inclusive spaces have the potential to transform lives and uplift communities. His message is clear: by embracing our passions and fostering a sense of belonging, we can work towards our purpose in ways that enrich the lives of others, ultimately creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.     To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “I want to use music and the arts to really bring people out of the shadow, celebrate diversity, and bring them into community. To be able to give back, and recognize that everybody has value.” Adam Christoferson Topics in this episode: The impact of music on mental health Community songwriting  Music as a safe place for expression Recreational therapy  Empowering the disenfranchised by not defining by their diagnosis Creatives not fitting into the existing social system   The importance of giving people their identity back with music  Impact of purpose on neglected communities The transformative power of music Collaboration with Yale University to show the impact music has on individuals with auditory hallucinations Solidifying identity and providing a sense of being valued, seen, and heard View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gino Cordone (@pleasantpodcasts) Bio: Adam Christoferson  Adam Christoferson’s passion for music started at a young age when his uncle had a big hit on the radio the year he was born. After attending some of his concerts at a young age and experiencing the power of music, his father bought him a drum set at the age of 8 and he fell in love with playing. Music became a safe place for him to communicate and connect with others, spending hours jamming with friends during his adolescents. After writing and playing his own songs, he became an advocate for using music as a tool for healing and connection.  He got a degree in recreational therapy from Southern Connecticut University and then started working with elderly in the hospitals and the homeless at shelters to write songs together and hold open mic nights.  Adam took him ability to create music with others to the community giving people a space to feel like they have purpose no matter their history or situation.  Connect with Adam:  Musical Intervention Website  Musical Intervention IG Watch the FB Live open mic Visit Musical Intervention 

Stream on: Apple Spotify More Like a Dart Than a Feather SAINT Phifer is an enigmatic abstract artist, and in this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose we have a thought-provoking conversation that delves into the deep well of personal growth, creative inspiration, and the power of building meaningful connections within a community. Our discussion kicks off with the concept of networking, with both SAINT and I advocate for as a way for community building.  He emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and meaningful conversations over traditional networking, a sentiment that reverberates through the entire episode. SAINT offers a refreshingly poignant definition of success, one that transcends the conventional markers of wealth and status. For him, success lies in being the best version of himself, being present, and prioritizing his son. This emphasis on personal growth and meaningful connections sets the stage for a conversation that goes beyond the surface and delves into the depths of authentic fulfillment. The narrative unfolds to reveal SAINT’s journey of self-discovery, from the challenges of feeling different and seeking knowledge in his formative years to the pivotal moments that shaped his artistic path. His resilience in the face of adversity, coupled with his unwavering pursuit of personal development, serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of curiosity and self-exploration. The episode is punctuated by SAINT’s profound insights into the value of time over money and the importance of saying no to anything that does not contribute to personal growth. A pivotal moment arises as he unveils his future plans, including organizing a group art show and embracing his identity as an artist. Through all this, his dedication to remaining a student of life and consistently seeking different perspectives emerges as a guiding principle. SAINT also touches on the practice of meditation as a tool for harnessing creativity and maintaining mental well-being. His perspective on the significance of clarity and mental space in nurturing artistic endeavors resonates with my journey, offering a shared understanding of the transformative power of self-care and introspection. A defining moment arrives as SAINT shares his deep-rooted inspiration from his late parents, weaving their resilience and positivity into the tapestry of his art. I noticed the profound impact of SAINT’s mother on his work, shining a light on the enduring legacy that permeates his creations. The importance of honoring and continuing their story through his art becomes a poignant testament to the profound influence of familial connections. As the episode draws to a close, SAINT’s unwavering commitment to personal growth and community-building leaves an indelible mark. The artful intertwining of personal anecdotes, introspective wisdom, and the power of genuine connections shapes the narrative, inviting listeners to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and creative expression. As SAINT’s mesmerizing narrative reverberates through the airwaves, a resounding message emerges – the pursuit of purpose is not merely a solitary journey, but a collective endeavor fueled by curiosity, resilience, and the power of building a community.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “It’s like, this is a lifestyle for me now, and I love this thing. I’m glad I got presented with this gift, and I’m like, cherishing every moment and, doing my due diligence.” Saint Phifer Topics in this episode: Facing personal challenges like the loss of parents at a young age Discovering a passion for painting in 2018 as a means of battling depression and suicidal thoughts Dedication to Art as a Lifestyle Personal growth through learning and seeking knowledge Influence of a mother’s positivity and strength  Genuine conversations and connections in building a community Emphasizing the importance of self-care Using curiosity to see things differently Importance of being true to oneself and acting as a pillar of strength Using meditation for mental health and creative development Bio: Saint Phifer SAINT was born in White Plains, New York and later moved to Norwalk, Connecticut as a child. Growing up as the only child, he faced the loss of his father at the age of 9 and his mother at the age of 21. Despite these hardships, SAINT found solace in sports, particularly football, and later discovered his passion for art. He is now a proud father to a 17-year-old son. SAINT’s attributes a difficult night to the discovery of his artistic gifts which are a testament to his resilience and determination. Connect with SAINT:  Follow Saint Phifer on IG Follow WABI Art on IG