So, you might already know, but I did a thing.

If you couldn’t guess it based on the article’s thumbnail, the title of the article itself, AND the subtitle, you might need to start reading a different blog. If you need an extra hint, it begins with a P-O-D and ends in cast.

That’s right, I decided to do what every writer, actor, comedian, athlete, and internet personality resolves to do when they’ve hit rock bottom: start a podcast. I’m not necessarily thrilled to enter into the same category as Gavin Newsom, Russell Brand, David Spade and Joe Rogan, but luckily I was never famous to begin with.

So, what’s it called?

Dylan’s Public Journal is a heartfelt space where I share personal stories, explore life’s ups and downs, and offer honest reflections on the journey toward healing and self-discovery.

It’s a podcast for anyone who wants to learn more about mental health and for those who want to improve their own. On a weekly basis, I will cover a plethora of different topics, including important news and resources in the mental health community, to ensure your personal growth as a human.

I created this podcast to share my own experiences overcoming post traumatic stress disorder through the years. I also plan to cover topics like combating toxic masculinity and reimagining the American Dream. Dylan’s Public Journal was made with passion, love and care, and I hope you enjoy it.

The first episodes

Since I’m so great at advertising, you might be surprised to know that I’ve already dropped two episodes. The first one hit Spotify and all other podcast hosting platforms on 5 March, and I released the second this afternoon.

In the debut episode, I introduce myself and explain the inspiration behind creating a podcast that feels like a journey inside my mind. You’ll get to know a bit about my background, what motivates me to speak so candidly, and why I believe transparency can foster genuine connections among us all.

As the first episode unfolds, I discuss the foundational steps I’ve taken to start overcoming post traumatic stress disorder, focusing on the wisdom found in the Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. These four guiding principles profoundly influenced my mindset, helping me redefine my reactions to daily challenges and reshape how I see myself.

Whether you’re navigating your own mental health journey or simply curious to learn new ways to find clarity, you’ll discover insights on how applying these agreements can offer peace and direction.

In the second episode, which premiered today, I pose a simple question: is the American Dream dead? In the first half of the episode, I focus on the evolution of the American Dream over time, so everyone can understand how we got to the place we precariously sit (or stand) now.

In the second half of the episode, I propose a few ideas on where we go from here (A Dream Reimagined, if you will*). Ultimately, I believe reimagining the American Dream doesn’t mean discarding the idea that opportunity and prosperity should be available to all. Rather, it’s about broadening and modernizing the concept.

By prioritizing collective prosperity, social justice, environmental sustainability, and personal well-being, we can ensure that the Dream remains relevant - and attainable - in an era marked by rapid change.

Future topics

I hope you join me as I share the lessons I’ve learned (and continue to learn) in real time. My goal with Dylan’s Public Journal is to remind us all that healing is possible, personal growth is achievable, and that our stories, when told freely, can help each other feel less alone.

In next week’s episode, I plan to examine the rise of toxic masculinity in American culture and around the world. This will be the first of many episodes where I review case studies of prominent males within the “manosphere” in an effort to understand how they gained notoriety in the first place. Eventually, I will propose ways to combat toxic masculinity in society, in an effort to degrade and dissolve the influence of the “manosphere” over time.

In other episodes, I will delve into further detail on what haunts me and how I cope with PTSD, anxiety and depression. I will also cover some of the books I’ve read and habits I’ve formed to develop a greater awareness of myself and the world around me.

Thank you in advance for tuning in! I look forward to traveling this winding road of self-improvement alongside you.

Hey, thanks for reading! If you enjoy my content, I encourage you to become a free subscriber. I plan to post new articles nearly every day, delivered right to your inbox.

*A Dream Reimagined is the name of an independent, reader-supported newsroom I created in late 2024.