From Honest Storytelling to Inspiring Keynote

Using humor, storytelling and vulnerability, Colin makes the challenging subject of mental health accessible and discussible. This talk/performance will show you how your ability to manage your mind directly affects your ability to have the life you want. Skills Taught: the value of seeking out counseling; wellness strategies and systems for success; how to have authentic, connecting conversations; building confidence and sharing your story. [60 min]

COVERS:

In this entertaining and educational one-hour experience, your audience will learn:

• how to use mindfulness to identify and respond to unwanted thoughts

• how to replace coping mechanisms with habits for health and happiness

• how to build positive relationships that strengthen your self-image

• the value of counseling and building a support network

• how to navigate inner critic and impostor syndrome

Colin will also spotlight your resources and upcoming programming.

DETAILS:

Length is 60 minutes. Can be performed in a theater or a typical presentation environment. Technical Requests One-Pager.

PERFECT FOR:

Students, Professionals, Entrepreneurs, Educators, Mental Health Counselors, Allies & Advocates

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Understanding Learned Rejection:

Growing up in a chaotic environment, you are rewarded for not making a fuss and not honoring your feelings. You self-soothe through coping mechanisms like emotion suppression and denial of your self-worth. In other words, you replace loyalty to yourself with loyalty to the external world.

Distinguishing an Inherited vs. Chosen Confirmation Bias:

Impostor syndrome creates a version of reality where you are suspicious of other’s affection, because it doesn’t confirm your own bias that you really know yourself and have rejected yourself before others have the chance to do it for you.

The Brain’s Instinct for Protection and Projection:

Authentic relationships threaten the alter ego you create — a version of yourself you cannot access but you can fake. This alter ego starts out as a way of protecting yourself but it also prevents you from progressing and working through your real feelings. And * double bind alert * you judge yourself for not living up to your alter-ego’s reputation as someone who always knows what to do and what to say.