Playbill for This Is My Brave - The Show in New Hampshire

presents:
WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 2022

Great Science
Deep Compassion
Real Impact
Working together
to address addiction,
serious mental illness
and cancer.
For more information about
Alkermes, please visit:
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2

Production Team
Executive Producer Karen Jantzen
Lead Producer Rebecca Wolfe
Show Director Ellen Desmond
Mental Health Clinician Walker Mondok
Fidelity Coordinator Johane Telgener
This Is My Brave - The Show in New Hampshire is presented by
ABOUT RIVERBEND COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH
Founded in 1963, Riverbend Community Mental Health is a private, nonprofit organization
providing specialized behavioral health services in central New Hampshire. Core services include
24/7 emergency mobile crisis services; counseling services for children, adults, and families;
addiction recovery; and community support, vocational services, and residential programs for
adults and seniors. Evidence-based models of treatment guide all the organization’s work, and
they strongly believe in the power of self-directed growth and recovery.
www.thisismybrave.org
@thisismybrave
3

Community
is connection,
and connection
is everything.
It’s an honor to
support the mission of
Riverbend Community
Public Health.
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189 North Main St., Ste. 101 Concord, NH
1 in 5 adults in the
U.S. experience
mental illness in the
average year.
Our nation's youth are
facing a mental health
emergency.
You Are Not Alone. We Can Help.
NAMI NH provides free support,
education, and advocacy for
individuals and families affected by
mental illness and suicide.
Find Help. Find Hope.
1-800-242-6264 (Press 4)
www.NAMINH.org

Raising awareness of mental health,
where it matters most.
We’re proud to be a Mental Health Awareness Month
Sponsor for Riverbend Community Mental Health.
Dartmouth Health and Riverbend are committed to helping people
live happier, healthier lives in the community we call home. We all
live, work and play here together – so we’re all in this together.
Learn more at Dartmouth-Health.org
The best, where it matters most.
Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital I Cheshire Medical Center I Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinics
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center I Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center
New London Hospital I Visiting Nurse and Hospice for Vermont and New Hampshire
In partnership with Dartmouth and the Geisel School of Medicine.

DEAR FRIENDS,
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR JOINING US IN THE AUDIENCE TODAY!
What a journey it has been since This Is My Brave produced its very first show in Arlington, Virginia, in 2014 – a show
inspired by our co-founder and former Executive Director, Jennifer Marshall. I know that she and her partner, Anne Marie
Ames, never imagined at that time the success that Brave would realize. Since 2014, This Is My Brave has produced 81
more shows in 49 cities across the U.S. and in Australia. Story by story, This Is My Brave is shining a light on mental
illness and addiction and helping end the stigma that has so long surrounded these issues.
The COVID pandemic presented us (and the world) with challenges we never could have expected. While our live events
had to pause, we at Brave were able to pivot our programming to a virtual platform and continue to offer inspiration and
hope to those who need it the most, maybe even those who didn’t need it before. As we all adjust to this “new normal,”
our society is finally understanding the need to prioritize mental health and wellness. And we at This Is My Brave are
here for it! Storytelling has and will always be a path to authentic connection and healing. We are especially proud to
have a platform in place where all stories can be shared and all storytellers can be affirmed and celebrated.
We are thrilled to be back in front of a live audience in 2022! And we are especially proud to be back for the fourth
This Is My Brave - The Show in Concord, which is presented by Riverbend Community Mental Health. I am incredibly
honored that this cast of amazing individuals has come together to be with us here tonight to share their powerful
personal stories. I know their stories will bring a new understanding of navigating mental health challenges in the world
today. Especially now, opening up conversations in our communities about mental health through storytelling will have
a lasting impact on all of us.
Every time a story is told — every time we shine a light on mental illness and addiction — we let someone know that
they are not alone. We can give someone the gift of hope and provide them with a sense of community based on
shared experiences.
YOU ARE A VITALLY IMPORTANT PART OF THIS STORY, TOO.
Mental illness does not discriminate. It could happen to you. It could happen to someone you
love. We need to acknowledge that mental illness is something that we may encounter in
our lifetime. We must break the silence that stigma has imposed on us and begin to speak
openly about our experiences. Together, we can work to end the stigma. We have come
so far in eight years, but we still have so much more work to do. There are millions more
stories to be shared, and we will start by sharing a few more on this stage here with
you tonight.
THANK YOU FOR JOINING US ON THIS JOURNEY.
Erin Gallagher,
Interim Executive Director
6

OUR MISSION
The mission of This Is My Brave is
to empower individuals to put their
names and faces to their personal
stories of recovery from mental
illness and/or addiction.
“So much power in real stories of struggle & hope.”
DAWN LITTLEFIELD, AUDIENCE MEMBER, DEKALB SHOW
OUR VISION
Someday, we will live in a world where we won’t
have to call it “brave” for talking openly about
mental illness. WE WILL SIMPLY CALL IT “TALKING.”
This Is My Brave, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is the leading platform for individuals to share their
stories of living successful lives despite a diagnosis of a mental illness or addiction. Our main event is This Is My
Brave - The Show, a live stage production featuring a cast of individuals who use the performing arts to share their
stories and inspire others. We’re opening up the conversation about mental health disorders in communities all
across the country.
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 7

THE
SHOW
We believe in the power of storytelling to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. This
Is My Brave - The Show is a live theater presentation of touching essays, original music, poetry,
and comedy created and performed by individuals living with – or loving someone with – a mental
illness. Our storytellers are here to inspire you to find hope in your own challenges or give hope to
someone you love who may be facing similar circumstances. This Is My Brave is honored to work
with volunteer production teams around the country to produce these shows in order to normalize
conversations about mental health, break down stigma and offer hope.
ORDER OF SHOW
Tell Them I’m Brave
Sharing An Omelet:
Our Journey with Mental Illness
How I Was/ Life on Life’s Terms
A Work in Progress
The Past Ten Years
All Strung Out
Learning to Breathe. Again. And Again.
Here I Stand
Voices Then, Voices Now
Virginia Nugent &
Alexandria Darrah-Easter
Karen & Ed Prive
Sammie Hackett
Jenni Shaw
Emily Shirlock
Heather Tobin
Rob Hirschfeld
Moira Cordelia
Teresa Moler
8

BRAVE AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE
Please DO take out your cell phones during performances and
SHARE on your social media platforms that you are watching!
SHARE your photos, favorite lines or takeaways using the hashtag
#STORYTELLINGSAVESLIVES and tagging us @THISISMYBRAVE
Help us tell the world that we’re here, and you’re watching!
Laugh at the funny, be comfortable with the sad,
be inspired by the resilience.
Need a break during the show? We understand. Things can get heavy.
Please exit quietly, and let your friends and family know that you’re okay.
We’ll be here when you’re ready :)
THIS IS MY BRAVE’S 2022 NATIONAL SPONSORS
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 9

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
At Associated Grocers of New England,
we recognize the importance of
awareness and support the well-being
of our associates, their families and the
communities we serve.
We are in this together.

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We celebrate
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TELL THEM
I’M BRAVE
New theme song announcement! After years of licensing the
Sara Bareilles song “Brave” as our unofficial anthem to open
our shows across the US, we felt it was time for a new song to
take center stage. In July 2020, we launched our first singer/
songwriter theme song competition and were so impressed
with the touching songs that came in. Ultimately, we had to
select a final winner, and we landed on “Tell Them I’m Brave”
which was submitted by Natalie Layne and Phoebe Scott,
recent graduates of Belmont University in Nashville, TN.
Be sure to download the song on iTunes!
THIS IS MY BRAVE
MERCH SHOP
Are you looking to add some #BraveGear to your wardrobe?
Check out our new merch shop, and wear your Brave for all
to see! We update the options frequently, so be sure to check
back often. Visit our website to order yours today!
12

A NOTE
FROM THE PRODUCERS
Riverbend’s mission is to care for the behavioral health of our community, and our tagline is that “treatment works”
and recovery is possible. Over the last several years, we’ve increased efforts to educate the public about behavioral
health issues and normalize the conversation around mental illness and substance use disorders. We believe it’s
imperative to break down the individual and systemic barriers to treatment and reduce the stigma surrounding
mental illness, and we are thrilled to partner with This Is My Brave to reach even more people tonight.
There are no words to express the infinite gratitude that we have for our storytellers. Your stories are unique, raw,
heartbreaking, inspiring, vulnerable, courageous, and most importantly – yours. We are so grateful that you chose
this platform to share your story, and we hope that you’ll continue to share it bravely and inspire others - as you have
us - for a lifetime to come. The world needs your bravery; it needs this discussion; it needs this awareness, and it
needs you. We cannot thank you enough.
We’d like to thank our entire production team - Karen, Rebecca, Ellen, Walker and Johane – for their dedicated efforts
in continually supporting and championing this wonderful group of storytellers. We’d also like to thank Riverbend’s
Board of Directors, the Educated Community Workgroup (Dellie Champagne, Leslie Combs, Jaime Corwin, Johane
Telgener, Robin Nafshi, and Terry Sturke), and Riverbend’s Executive Director, Lisa Madden, for their steadfast
support, involvement and encouragement in all of our Mental Health Awareness Month events. We could not do it
without you!
We’d also like to thank our intern, Virginia Nugent, and wish her well on her journey to college! A special thanks to our
photographer, Samantha Captain of Captain Artistries, and our videographer, Derek Thompson of Digital Purpose
Co., for expertly capturing the evening. We’d also like to thank Eatxactly Sweet Cafe for their kind donation of
desserts for our post-show reception.
And finally - thank YOU. We are incredibly grateful for your presence in the audience tonight. Our storytellers will
be exposing parts of themselves that, for some, have never been shared with a group this large. Your willingness to
listen to these stories gives our storytellers a place to heal at the same time as it promotes community education.
Thank you for giving them space to inspire and prove that healthy, successful lives are in reach for those who have
or are currently struggling with a mental illness.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you are not alone. Our storytellers and other resources
will be available after the show. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
The 2022 New Hampshire Production Team.
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 13

THANK YOU TO OUR
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
14

Mental Health Awareness
FACT
Mental health is essential
to everyone’s overall health
and wellbeing.
While 1 in 5* people will experience a
mental illness during their lifetime,
everyone faces challenges in life that
can impact their mental health.
*Mental Health America . (2021). Mental Health Month 2021 . Mental Health America.
https://mhanational.org/mental-health-month-2021-toolkit-download.
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THE
CAST
MOIRA CORDELIA
Moira Cordelia is a compassionate entrepreneur who presently lives
in Concord, NH. She loves animals, being out in nature and singing.
Moira owns three micro-businesses: Earthly Roots Hair Studio, Earthly
Roots Yoga and Synergy Virtual Assistance. At Earthly Roots Hair
Studio, Moira inspires others to lessen their chemical body burden.
She also facilitates trauma-informed hatha yoga to help other women
cope in a safe and accessible way. A survivor herself, Moira has been
in counseling since she was a child for Complex Trauma, Complex
PTSD and Anxiety.
ALEXANDRIA DARRAH-EASTER
Alexandria is a Junior at Merrimack Valley High School, and is hoping
to attend Southern New Hampshire University when she graduates
to pursue a career in Psychology. She owns her own art business
and enjoys making art for other people and participating in theatre
productions. She has two lizards, two cats, and a dog, and is looking
forward to being a part of This Is My Brave!
SAMMIE HACKETT
Sammie Hackett (Samantha Jean) was born in Franklin, NH, and grew
up in Laconia, NH. She was named after her mom’s childhood Irish
Setter dog, and her middle name is named after her grandmother.
Sammie is actively in recovery and enjoys supporting and finding
support within that community. She comes from a family of addiction
and battles mental health issues (PTSD, depression, bi-polar) every
day, but wants you to know that no matter what struggles you may go
through, there is always a possibility for a positive outcome.
16

ROB HIRSCHFELD
Rob Hirschfeld is discovering and pursuing a role as a mental health
advocate by sharing his story about depression, especially among
persons of faith who mistakenly believe that mental illness is a
moral or spiritual failing. An Episcopal bishop, he is the author of
the book “With Sighs Too Deep For Words: Depression and Grace.”
He lives with his spouse in the Concord area.
TERESA MOLER
Teresa Moler was originally diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1984
and is currently in remission. Teresa is a puppeteer, voiceover
artist, watercolorist, song composer, karaoke regular, mental health
advocate, NAMI NH volunteer, political activist, and selectman. After
appearing in This Is My Brave in 2019, Teresa has continued to improve
her life and add more meaningful achievements. She enjoys visiting
family in California and spending time with her partner, Stephen.
VIRGINIA NUGENT
Virginia is a Senior at Merrimack Valley High School. She is interning
at Riverbend for her Senior Project, and has enjoyed working on
This Is My Brave and learning more about the mental health field,
as she hopes to pursue a career in Psychology and is starting at
SNHU in the Fall. Outside of school she enjoys martial arts, theatre,
singing and spending time with her cats and family.
ED & KAREN PRIVÉ
Ed and Karen Privé have been together for over 28 years. They both
are mental health advocates and believe storytelling saves lives and
spreads hope. Karen’s blog, Invincible Hope, featuring writing about
her journey can be found at https://karenprive.com. They live in
Franklin, NH, with their black lab Gracie and cats Hope and Dusty and
they enjoy spending time with their gaggle of grandkids.
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 17

THE
CAST
JENNI SHAW
Jenni Shaw is a Colorado native who moved to Massachusetts
eight years ago for a position with Boston Public Schools. She has
traveled around the world to Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Canada,
Mexico, Thailand, Nepal, and worked as a contractor with the United
States Antarctic Program. She has successfully battled Ovarian
cancer, Bipolar Depression II, Alcoholism, and an Eating Disorder.
But like all humans, she is a work in progress.
EMILY SHIRLOCK
Emily Shirlock is from Bow, New Hampshire. She is a survivor of
schizoaffective, borderline personality, and major depressive
disorders, as well as PTSD, yet she continues to add to her
successes every day. She loves to go to the beach, exercise and
make art. She loves to help others through volunteering and hopes
to pursue a career as an LNA. Emily hopes to help families end the
stigma against mental illness and is looking forward to doing that
by being a part of this show!
HEATHER TOBIN
Heather Tobin is an award winning author, poet, and musician from
Kingston, New Hampshire. She works as a Certified Positive Psychology
Coach nationally and is an active mental health awareness advocate.
Heather has been featured on the cover of BP Hope Magazine, and has
co produced and hosted podcasts “Into The Mystic’’ as well as “Vibrantly
Visible, Thriving With Invisible Chronic Illness”. Heather lives with her
husband, Ken, three precious cats, and an assortment of other small
pets. She is an avid gardener and nature lover.
18

Working
for Better
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care is proud to support Mental
Health Awareness Month. Together, we can work toward
better for everyone in our communities.
Visit us at www.harvardpilgrim.org
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 19

TOGETHER WE THRIVE
We want New Hampshire to be a
community where everyone can thrive.
The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation is proud to sponsor
Riverbend’s Mental Health Awareness Month programming; and
proud to support the many nonprofit organizations across the state
that help people get the resources and care they need to thrive.
When a community can draw on the potential, strength, ingenuity
and grace of every person in it, that community will be healthier,
happier, more prosperous and a better place to live for all.
37 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH www.nhcf.org

This Is My Brave is proud to partner with Principle
Pictures to present season 1 of OUR TURN TO TALK,
a podcast series that focuses on the life-saving
power of storytelling through interviews with
teens, parents, and mental health experts. OTTT
is sure to inspire teen listeners to open up about
their own experiences and start lifesaving brave
conversations with their friends and family.
AVAILABLE WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS.
VIRTUAL 5K June 10-12, 2022
Join us this June 10-12 for a weekend of celebration and community by participating virtually in the third annual
Brave The Storm 5k to shine a light on mental health.
Register to run, walk, or hike a 5k in the location of your choice and be a part of the inspiration and movement to
spread hope and end the stigma around mental illness. We invite you to register for our Brave The Storm 5k and
participate for reasons that are important to you — for health, for well-being, for a loved one.
thisismybrave.org/BraveTheStorm5k
Register Now!
Whatever your motivation may be, join us and help spread a message of hope.

PRODUCTION
TEAM
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
KAREN JANTZEN
Karen Jantzen is passionate about the arts, the environment, food and
healthy living. When not promoting mental well-being and advocating for
those living with substance use disorders through her work at Riverbend,
Karen enjoys spending her time hiking with her Bernese Mountain Dogs,
kayaking on remote lakes, trying new eateries, and gardening.
LEAD PRODUCER
REBECCA WOLFE
Rebecca Wolfe is a lifelong Concord, NH, resident and enjoys bringing
mental health awareness and conversation to her community through her
important work at Riverbend. Outside of work she enjoys spending quality
time with her husband and two daughters, visiting with family, spending
time outdoors (especially in the Adirondacks), volunteering for her children’s
many activities, and caring for a variety of animals through her on-the-side
pet-services business!
DIRECTOR
ELLEN DESMOND
Ellen Desmond is pleased to direct This Is My Brave: New Hampshire for
another year! As someone who deeply believes in the impact of storytelling
and supports mental wellbeing for all, she is honored to work with the team
at Riverbend once again to produce this show. Congratulations to our cast
on their bravery!
22

MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN
WALKER MONDOK
Walker Mondok is a world traveler currently nestled in the Lakes
Region of NH. Walker has spent the last few years working in
behavioral health in different roles. Walker sits on the board for a
local Peer Support organization and enjoys volunteer work in mental
health. When not at work, Walker can be found collaborating in other
artistic mediums, playing video games, or kayaking on Opeechee Bay.
FIDELITY COORDINATOR
JOHANE TELGENER
Johane Telgener is an active member of her community and is
passionate about making Concord a healthier place to live. She is
the proud mother of two adult sons. Johane’s non-profit community
involvement includes work with The Friendly Kitchen,The Crisis Center
of NH, and the Concord Garden Club. She has served on the board of
New Futures, an advocacy hub whose mission is to improve the health
and wellness of all New Hampshire residents through advocacy,
education and collaboration. She also serves on The Riverbend Board
of Directors and its Educated Community workgroup.
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 23

24

AbbVie remains committed to bringing
together the bipolar I disorder community.
Visit GettingHereToThere.com to learn how advocacy
organizations, musicians, music lovers, and others come
together to reduce stigma and raise awareness of mental
health. While you’re there, sign up to be notified about
additional support and resources.
GettingHereToThere.com
UNB148562 07/21
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 25

2022 SHOWS / EVENTS
• SEASON 1 OF OUR TURN TO TALK PODCAST LAUNCHES IN MAY!
• Upcoming Live Productions of This Is My Brave - The Show:
Sept 22 - Broward County, FL
Sept 25 - Los Angeles, CA
Oct 9 - Philadelphia, PA
Oct 16 - DeKalb, IL
Oct 29 - Deafinitely, Inc. presents
This Is My Brave - Stories from the Deaf Community
• Upcoming Virtual Productions of This Is My Brave:
Oct - Stories from the Brave Ambassador Community
Nov - Stories from the Veteran Community
• Brave Days - May 2022 for Mental Health Month
• Brave the Storm Virtual 5K - June 10-12, 2022
NEW THIS YEAR...
• JayWalkers - A Suicide Prevention Month Virtual Event
More Information Coming Soon!
26

IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF IMMEDIATE HELP
PLEASE CALL 911
THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION
LIFELINE IS:
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
SUICIDEPREVENTIONLIFELINE.ORG
TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH SCREENING...
IT’S EASY AND FREE!
THE CRISIS TEXT LINE CAN BE ACCESSED
BY TEXTING:
STORY TO 741-741
Taking a mental health screening is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether
you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.
Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
We are thrilled to partner with Mental Health America, which offers 10 mental health screens.
You can share your results with your physician or health care provider.
TAKE A FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL SCREENING
TODAY BY VISITING:
HTTP://BIT.LY/BRAVESCREEN
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 27

THIS IS MY BRAVE
LEADERSHIP
Photo credit: EmmiClaire Photography
ERIN GALLAGHER
Interim Executive Director
Erin is proud to be a part of the This is My Brave team as Interim Executive
Director. Following the suicide of her son, Jay, in 2016, Erin and her husband
became passionate mental health advocates and have worked tirelessly to
influence policy on appropriate responses, particularly in the public schools,
to suicide warning signs. She enjoys working with This Is My Brave volunteers
towards ending the stigma associated with mental health and substance use
disorders in honor of Jay. When Erin is not working, she enjoys spending time
at her alma mater, James Madison University, visiting her oldest daughter,
Lindsay. She also loves logging hours with husband Tim while watching fastpitch
softball played by her youngest, Laurenne, who is a student at Mt. St.
Mary’s University in Maryland.
KATIE GRANA
Director of Programming
Katie (she/her) was diagnosed with PTSD-induced anxiety and depression
after being robbed at gunpoint in 2010. Not really understanding how trauma
can have such powerful mental and physical effects, her tipping point
was losing a friend in a car accident the following year. She spent her 20’s
redefining herself and learning to heal through trauma. Katie found This is
My Brave after a close friend died by suicide in June 2018 and quickly decided
to produce a show. This is My Brave was something she wanted to share with
her community. When a full time position opened up with This is My Brave,
Katie knew it was time to move from the corporate world back to her roots in
nonprofit. Katie lives in St. Louis MO with her two dogs. She volunteers as a
coach for an all girls high school racquetball team. She loves spending time
with her friends and family - especially her niece and nephew.
NATASHA WEST
Director of Marketing
Natasha joined This Is My Brave in 2022 as the Director of Marketing, with
more than eight years of marketing experience in mental health and health
care. Prior to joining This Is My Brave, Natasha worked for various mental
health nonprofits as a digital marketing consultant where she focused on
data-driven strategy development.
Natasha received a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in Social
Media and Communication Technology and a M.S. in Integrated Marketing
Communications from West Virginia University. When Natasha is not working,
she loves backpacking, hiking, concerts, and planning future travel with
Peanut and Khaleesi (dog and cat).
28

Photo credit: Alicia Bruce
JENNIFER MARSHALL
Co-Founder
Board of Directors
Jessica Kennedy, Chairperson
Dr. Kyaien Connor
Tammy George
Ric Waldman
Jenn (she/her) was diagnosed with Type 1 Bipolar Disorder in 2006
at the age of 26. She’s had four hospitalizations within five years
– two in 2005 before any diagnosis was reached, and two more
because she was trying to protect her newborn son (postpartum
psychosis) in 2008 and her unborn daughter in 2010 – and all
were because she was unmedicated at the time. Writing her way
through life with a mental illness became her way of healing, and
her award-winning blog BipolarMomLife became an inspiration to
many. Jenn created This Is My Brave because she learned first
hand how powerful and therapeutic it was to live openly and not
hide her diagnosis. She wanted to give brave individuals from
the community a platform through which to creatively share
their stories of living with mental illness to educate and inspire
others. After leading This Is My Brave, Inc. for seven years, Jenn
stepped down from her role as Executive Director in 2022. She
lives outside Washington, DC with her husband and two children.
Advisory Board
Doreen Gentzler
Dr. Mark Komrad
Dr. Robert Post
Hayley Sherwood, PhD
Photo credit: Shoot Photo Inc.
ANNE MARIE AMES
Co-Founder
Anne Marie held a variety of PR and strategic communications
positions throughout her career, but her favorite job was creating
and producing This Is My Brave. She found her passion and her
mission – to help others share their stories – and made tremendous
contributions to the organization from launching the initial concept
to strategizing on growth and expansion over the four years of her
tenure. Anne Marie’s sudden passing on August 23, 2017, was a shock
to the many who loved her, and she is deeply missed.
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 29

THIS IS MY BRAVE
HISTORY
FROM A BLOG TO A SHOW
In August of 2011, more than six years after Jennifer
Marshall’s bipolar disorder first surfaced, she decided
to start a blog. It became a place where she turned to
write about her life as a wife and young mom to two
small kids, and writing helped her begin to heal. She
titled it: Bipolar Mom Life. Jennifer wrote anonymously
at first, because she was afraid of being judged. She
also worried that disclosing her mental illness may make
future employment opportunities difficult. For eighteen
months, Jennifer wrote and found community online.
Other writers who were openly sharing their stories of
overcoming mental illness inspired her, and when she
landed her first paid writing job, Jennifer decided to stop
hiding behind a pen name.
When WhatToExpect.com published her first article with
Jennifer’s byline, it was also picked up by AOL.com (the
parent company). The outpouring of support and gratitude
when that piece hit the Internet with her real name was
overwhelming. She knew immediately that disclosing was
the right decision. She could finally talk about all parts of
her life, and not just the shiny, fun moments.
About six months later, Jennifer had the idea to launch
a theater show. A simple storytelling show where
individuals from the community could tell their stories
through creative expression to break down the stigma
associated with mental illness. She wanted to give
individuals from the community the same opportunity
she had – a stage on which to share their story of living
a successful life despite mental illness. Jennifer met her
Co-Founder, Anne Marie Ames, at a mutual friend’s party
and recruited her to help put the project out to the world.
Jennifer and Anne Marie launched This Is My Brave
on Kickstarter in October of 2013 and the excitement
surrounding the project grew and grew. They offered
tickets to the first show and handmade “BRAVE”
bracelets, among other items, as rewards for financial
pledges of support. Within 31 days, the campaign had
surpassed their goal of $6,500 to fund the first show,
ending up with over $10,000 in contributions. It was clear
that the community wanted to help bring this show to life
– they believed in the vision and Jennifer and Anne Marie
were dedicated to delivering an exceptional production.
After the success of the debut show in 2014, Jennifer
and Anne Marie began receiving interest from
individuals in other cities to bring the show to their
community. This Is My Brave, Inc was formed
as a 501(c)(3) and the organization began to
expand to new cities through the support of
volunteers willing to donate their time and
expertise to coordinate shows.
Photo credit: Jim Folliard
30

“I finally feel comfortable with my mental
health story in a way I never have before.
Like the power it used to hold over me is gone.”
ERIN TROIA, 2018 ARLINGTON STORYTELLER
FROM ONE SHOW TO NATIONWIDE + AUSTRALIA
Since 2014, This Is My Brave has produced more than 65
unique shows in cities across the United States featuring
over 800 storytellers sharing true, personal stories on
overcoming depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD,
psychosis, OCD, postpartum depression, borderline
personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder,
trichotillomania, anorexia, bulimia, sexual assault,
alcoholism, substance use disorder and more.
In 2017, This Is My Brave expanded internationally with the
help of mental health advocate Tim Daly, who leads our
NPO in Canberra, Australia – This Is My Brave Australia,
or TIMBA for short.
Jennifer and Anne Marie may have created the space
for these brave stories to exist, but This Is My Brave
wouldn’t be the incredible community it is if it weren’t
for all the amazing people who have bravely come
forward to share their stories. “It’s my opinion that we
won’t be able to end the stigma surrounding mental
illness and addiction until we put our names and faces
on our stories,” says Jennifer.
THIS IS MY BRAVE
IS DOING THIS
ONE PERSON
& ONE STORY
AT A TIME
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 31

THIS IS MY BRAVE’S IMPACT
Since 2014, This Is My Brave has...
produced
80
shows
2021
Stories from the
Black Community - vol 1*
Stories from the
Black Community - vol 2*
College Edition - season 2*
New Hampshire*
National Teen Show*
Stories from the
APIDA Community*
BraveTV*
Brave Beyond the Stage*
#BraveDays*
•
2020
BraveTV pilot*
Napa Valley
& St Helena, CA
Houston, TX*
St Louis, MO*
Washington, DC-area*
Hampton Roads, VA*
New Hampshire*
•
2019
High School Edition Pilot
College Edition Pilot
Baltimore, MD
Concord, NH
DeKalb, IL
Houston, TX
Orlando, FL
Columbus, OH
Carroll County, MD
Northwest AR
32
Boise, ID
with over
900
storytellers
2018
Arlington, VA - Spring
Arlington, VA - Fall
Baltimore, MD
Bentonville, AR
Bethesda, MD
Boise, ID
Boston, MA - Spring
Boston, MA - Fall
Charlotte, NC - Spring
Charlotte, NC - Fall
Elkins Park, PA
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Iowa City, IA
Lansing, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Mullumbimby, Australia
New York City, NY
Orlando, FL
Philadelphia, PA
Sterling, VA
www.thisismybrave.org
17,250+
audience
members
in 49 cities
in the U.S.
and Australia
2017
Bentonville, AR
Boise, ID
Boston, MA
Canberra, Australia
Cedar Rapids, IA
D.C. Women’s Summit,
Washington, DC
Des Moines, IA
Germantown, MD
Jacksonville, FL
Kansas City, MO
Lewiston, ME
Los Angeles, CA - Spring
Los Angeles, CA - Fall
Napa, CA
Perth, Australia
Sedona, AZ
Valparaiso, IN
Washington, DC
Wheeling, WV
and 300k
YouTube
video views
2016
Arlington, VA
Baltimore, MD
Denver, CO - Spring
Denver, CO - Fall
Greenville, SC
Iowa City, IA
Oklahoma City, OK
Valparaiso, IN
Washington, DC
•
2015
Arlington, VA
Boston, MA
Harrisburg, PA
Iowa City, IA
Los Angeles, CA
New York City, NY
2014
Arlington, VA
* indicates virtual programming
@thisismybrave

AND
PRESENT THE UPCOMING FILM
OUR TURN TO TALK
Teens today are at the center of a mental health epidemic
in America. Anxiety, trauma, depression, eating disorders
and addiction are responsible for the highest rates of
suicide ever recorded among young people.
OUR TURN TO TALK is a documentary film focused on
teenagers who say they’re the generation to put an end to
mental health stigma. To do it, they’re telling their own stories
– raw and unfiltered. From skyrocketing rates of anxiety and
depression to the impacts of racial and intergenerational
trauma, these teens share their struggles and triumphs and
carry a powerful message: Storytelling Saves Lives.
COMING FALL 2022
OUR TURN TO TALK is a production of Principle Pictures
for WETA in partnership with Well Beings, a major public
media, multi-platform campaign from WETA committed to
demystifying and de-stigmatizing our physical and mental
health through storytelling. OUR TURN TO TALK features
storytellers from This Is My Brave, Inc. an organization
committed to destigmatizing mental health issues through
live storytelling and scientific research.
www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 33

THIS IS MY BRAVE’S
PROGRAMS
We believe in the power of storytelling to break down
the stigma surrounding mental illness. This Is My Brave
– The Show is a live presentation of touching essays,
original music, poetry, and comedy performed by a dozen
individuals living with—or loving someone with—a mental
illness. Shows are held in cities and towns across the
United States, as well as in Australia. Auditions are held
in each city in advance of the show, creating a cast made
up of members of the local community. They rehearse
together with a local producer before presenting their
stories live on stage in front of an audience. There
is strength found in people coming together as a
community, propelling a movement forward toward a
common goal.
Are you a college student – in
person OR online? Then YOU
can be a Brave Ambassador!
This is YOUR opportunity to become a ground level, off
the stage storyteller for This Is My Brave aka a Brave
Ambassador! YOU have the power to change the culture
on your college campus and open up the conversation
around mental health. YOU have the power to smash
the stigma of mental illness for future generations. YOU
have the power to make your fellow students feel heard,
validated, and empowered. Not all students live with
mental illness, but ALL students are affected by mental
health. Let’s do this!
34

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www.thisismybrave.org @thisismybrave 35

SUPPORT
THIS IS MY BRAVE TODAY!
Were you inspired, moved, or transformed by
WHAT YOU HEARD ON STAGE TODAY?
Are you ready to join the
movement and help end
the stigma surrounding
MENTAL ILLNESS?
Your tax-deductible gift helps build a trusted platform for individuals
to share their stories of recovery from mental illness and addiction.
YOUR GIFT ALLOWS SOMEONE TO BE BRAVE.
Scan this QR code now
Join as a
to make a one-time donation
right from your phone
https://bit.ly/donatebrave
and become a sustaining member
for as little as $10 per month.
https://bit.ly/BraveChampion
YOUR GIFT PROVIDES PEOPLE LIVING WITH MENTAL
ILLNESS THE OPPORTUNITY TO COME FORWARD
AND SHARE THEIR STORIES, BOLDLY AND BRAVELY.