Truth in the Shadows: Mental Health, Identity & the Stories We Tell Ourselves

Some of the most important conversations happen in the gray areas. In this episode of Notes From the Edge, Lisa Lacy sits down with author and former military officer Richard Spegal for an honest conversation about leadership, identity, creativity, mental health, and the stories we build around ourselves to survive. Richard shares his journey from serving in the military to becoming an award-winning fantasy and paranormal author, explaining how writing became more than a career. It became a lifeline. Together, they explore: Why creativity can become a survival strategy The difference between media myths and the reality of living with bipolar disorder Why morality is rarely black and white How fiction can reveal deeper truths about the human experience The importance of talking openly about mental health instead of relying on stereotypes The question at the heart of Notes From the Edge: What did you perform in order to survive? Whether you’re interested in psychology, leadership, trauma, storytelling, or simply understanding people a little better, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at the complexities that make us human.