Coast Mental Health’s Rabble Rousers gathered at the Red Gate Arts Society to celebrate the launch of Season 2 of They Called Me Mental – a podcast created by young people, for young people.  

Rabble Rousers are part of the Young Adult Program at Coast Mental Health, and they aim to raise awareness of the stigma and challenges young people face on their mental health recovery journeys. 

Amplifying Youth Voices Through Storytelling   

They Called Me Mental centres honest, unfiltered conversations in which young people speak openly about recovery, stigma, and the ongoing barriers to accessing mental health care. Through personal storytelling, the podcast creates space for voices that are too often unheard fostering connection, understanding, and community. 

“This podcast gave us a platform to speak openly about our experiences — to connect, be heard, and remind ourselves and others that the voices of young people matter,” said Rabble Rouser. 

Supported by Industry Partners

The podcast was selected by Everything Podcasts’ Non‑Profit Selection Committee to receive in‑kind production support, including mentorship and consultation throughout the development process. 

“Bringing this important work around mental health into the light through storytelling gives youth a voice in this complicated world we live in today.  I consider it a privilege to be able to work alongside the They Called Me Mental team and provide insight and learnings for this brilliant and courageous youth group,” says Jennifer Smith, Founder & CEO of Everything Podcasts. 

Youth‑Led, Community‑Driven Impact 

Program Manager Şeyda Yalçın reflected on the power of the project from start to finish: 

“It’s been an incredible experience being part of this project from the get-go right through to the finish! I’ve learned so much from Rabble Rousers, and it’s truly inspiring to see how powerful young people’s voices are when it comes to sparking real change in our communities.” 

The conversations featured in They Called Me Mental highlight persistent gaps within mental health services, while also reflecting the resilience, advocacy, and sense of community that emerge when young people are empowered to speak for themselves. 
 
“We’re proud to support initiatives that amplify youth voices and promote open, honest conversations about mental health,” said Justin Hachlaf, Director Community Services. “Projects like this help reduce stigma and strengthen community connection.”  

About Rabble Rousers 

Rabble Rousers is a youth‑led initiative within Coast Mental Health’s Young Adult Program, made possible with your generous support, and with support from the group’s lead funder, the Westminster Foundation. The project supports young people to build skills, share their stories, and create meaningful change through advocacy and creative expression. 

You can support this initiative by donating, following us on Instagram, and most importantly by tuning in to They Called Me Mental Podcast.