<p>In this powerful episode of <em>Hey Man; It’s Ok</em>, we sit down with <strong>American Ninja Warrior champion Jackson Erdos</strong> for one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever had.</p><p>Jackson shares his journey from elite youth athlete to world-class competitor—while quietly battling depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation as a teenager. He opens up about checking himself into residential treatment, losing close friends to suicide, and learning that success without identity and support can still feel empty.</p><p>At just 18 years old, Jackson speaks with rare wisdom about:</p><ul><li>Why your identity is not your performance</li><li>How mental toughness isn’t about being emotionless</li><li>The danger of tying self-worth to success</li><li>What rehab, therapy, and community truly changed for him</li><li>Why “climbing the mountain” takes years—not 30 seconds</li><li>How coaching kids and serving others saved his life</li><li>Navigating fame, pressure, and expectations as a young man</li><li>Bridging mental health conversations in sports and youth culture</li></ul><p>Jackson also talks about his “You Matter / 988<strong>”</strong> initiative, donating proceeds to suicide prevention, and why showing vulnerability—especially as an athlete—is not weakness, but leadership.</p><p>This episode is for:</p><ul><li>Athletes and coaches</li><li>Parents of teens</li><li>Young men struggling silently</li><li>Anyone who feels like they should be “doing better” but isn’t</li></ul><p>If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or afraid to ask for help—this conversation is proof that <strong>healing is possible</strong> and that you don’t have to climb alone.</p><p>📍 <em>If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text 988 for the Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline.</em></p>