Ep. 16: Hospitality: from Hangovers to Happiness; Water As An Anti-Oxidant

Our first segment explores the mental health challenges faced by the hospitality industry, highlighting the work of CHOW, an organization dedicated to supporting hospitality workers through mental health struggles, addiction, and risk of suicide. Jasmine Parks Papadopoulos, a former chef turned coach and head of community for CHOW, shares her journey and the impact of CHOW's mission. The second segment focuses on cancer research, with Philip Bresnahan, a cancer research analyst, sharing research-based insights into the root causes of cancer, emphasizing the importance of molecular hydrogen water and the role of positive and negative electrical charges in cellular health.

Part. 1:

Transforming the Hospitality Industry: An In-depth Discussion on Mental Health with Jasmin Parks-Popdopoulis

We deep-dive into an insightful conversation where Cary and Ashley speak with Jasmin Popdopoulis, a former 'toxic chef', now a well-respected coach, consultant, and head of the community for CHOW - an organization dedicated to supporting mental health within the hospitality industry.

## Navigating the Pressures of the Hospitality Industry

We start off introducing the importance of mental health support within the hospitality industry. Statistics reveal the immense pressure experienced by hospitality workers due to the high-paced, demanding nature of their jobs.

Jasmin Popdopoulis articulated that the hospitality industry, with its stresses and demands, plays a significant role in the mental health struggles faced by its workers. Cary likened the environment of a bustling restaurant or hotel to that of the opening night of a Broadway show, emphasizing the constant, tense atmosphere industry workers cope with daily.

## CHOW: A Beacon for Hospitality Workers

Jasmin Popdopoulis introduced CHOW, an organization providing a sanctuary for restaurant staff, cultivating a space where they are heard, valued, and supported. Offering assistance for challenges such as mental health struggles, addiction, and the risks of suicide, CHOW stands united in nurturing the very souls who've made our dining experiences unforgettable.

## From Toxic Chef to Mental Health Advocate

Jasmin shared her journey from being a 'toxic chef' to becoming a vital part of CHOW. She opened up about her experiences facing the stressors of the industry, and how she saw the need to change. She shared her insights on the industry, highlighting that her transformation from a toxic chef to a mental health advocate symbolized her journey of making amends and driving positive change in the industry.

## Creating Brave Spaces for Struggles and Successes

Popdopoulis detailed how CHOW creates 'brave spaces' where participants can share both struggles and successes while supporting each other in their journeys. These brave spaces are not just for those experiencing extreme discomfort; they encompass all levels and are inclusive of the entire community.

## The Power of Hospitality and Self-Care

A powerful part of the discussion revolved around the intersectionality of mental health, addiction, wellness, and self-care in the hospitality industry. Popdopoulis explained that a cornerstone of CHOW's mission is to recognize and address these all-encompassing aspects to ensure lasting changes in the food, beverage, and hospitality industry.

The conversation with Jasmin Popdopoulis shed light on the important work CHOW is doing to address mental health issues within the hospitality industry. By examining industry-specific challenges, implementing innovative support models, and fostering an inclusive community, CHOW is truly making a difference in the way industry players navigate their mental healt