Meet Christopher Adell

We were lucky to catch up with Christopher Adell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Christopher, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

I believe my resilience stems from my experiences and training in the military, where I learned the importance of discipline, perseverance, and adaptability. During my service, I faced numerous challenges that pushed me to my limits both physically and mentally. Those experiences taught me how to stay focused under pressure, and find strength even in the most difficult circumstances.

Transitioning into civilian life, I had a strong connection with family and learning about my ancestoral history. I applied that same resilience to overcome new obstacles. Protective factors like a strong support system, continuous learning, and maintaining physical and mental wellness have been pivotal. My military background instilled a sense of duty and purpose that drives me to not only face adversity head-on but also to help others do the same as a mental health advocate and author of the book Mental Health Now.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

My name is Christopher Adell, and I’m proud to share my journey as an Army veteran with over two decades of experience dedicated to suicide prevention, mental health advocacy, and empowering individuals through life coaching and development counseling. Having served my country, I’ve gained a profound understanding of the unique challenges that veterans face, particularly in the areas of mental health and community reintegration. This experience has fueled my passion for making a difference in the lives of others.

In 2013, I founded Untitled Production Team, a venture born from my desire to create impactful solutions for those grappling with various life challenges. Through this platform, I have been able to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to raise awareness and provide resources for mental health support, diversity representation, and life coaching. What excites me most about this work is the opportunity to foster connections and create safe spaces for individuals to share their stories, seek help, and ultimately heal.

One of my most significant initiatives is the development of UPT Community, a nonprofit organization specifically focused on veteran support and youth development. Our mission is to assist those transitioning from military to civilian life by offering comprehensive programs that address mental health, financial planning, and overall well-being. We’re committed to creating a supportive network for veterans and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of this transition period.

The CSRA (Central Savannah River Area) and Fort Eisenhower in Georgia will serve as the primary locations for our events, partnering with the Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) to reach and engage our community effectively. We’re thrilled to announce that we have several exciting events planned for the upcoming months, including workshops, seminars, and support groups tailored to reinforce our mission. These events will not only provide essential resources but also foster camaraderie among attendees as they share their experiences and support one another.

I believe that every story matters, and through UPT Community and Untitled Production Team, I aim to highlight the voices of those who often go unheard. Our work is not just about addressing immediate concerns but also about building a brighter, more inclusive future for veterans and youth alike. I’m eager to connect with others who share this vision and collaborate on initiatives that will create lasting positive change in our communities. Thank you for allowing me to share my story, and I look forward to the opportunity to make a meaningful impact together.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that three pivotal qualities significantly shaped my path: self-awareness, authentic expression, and self-love. These principles not only guided my personal growth but also influenced my work and relationships with others.

Firstly, the **knowledge of self** stands as the foundation of my journey. Understanding who I am, where I come from, and the legacy of my ancestors has been transformative. This awareness goes beyond mere identity; it encompasses recognizing the epigenetic influences—both skills and traumas—that have been passed down through generations. By delving into my family history and understanding the context that shaped my upbringing, I have been better equipped to navigate my own challenges and embrace my strengths. For those early in their journey, I advise them to invest time in reflecting on their personal history. Journaling, engaging in conversations with family members, or even exploring their heritage can help them uncover valuable insights into their identity.

The second area, **expression of self**, is crucial. To truly thrive, one must embrace their authentic self. When we live inauthentically, we not only deceive others but also betray ourselves, leading to internal conflict and discontent. In my book, “Mental Health Now,” I emphasize that being true to oneself is a powerful catalyst for healing. The journey to authenticity might be daunting, especially in a world that often pressures conformity. My advice to those starting out is to practice vulnerability. This can be through sharing thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals, expressing creativity through art or writing, or simply allowing themselves to speak their truth in everyday situations. The process might be uncomfortable at first, but it’s essential for genuine self-expression and emotional freedom.

Lastly, the principle of **loving thyself** cannot be overstated. Self-hatred is one of the leading barriers to mental wellness. When we fail to appreciate our worth, it not only affects our relationship with ourselves but also colors how we interact with others. The central message I impart is that the journey of self-love begins within. It requires conscious effort to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that may have been ingrained over time. For those just beginning this journey, I recommend cultivating self-compassion. This can be done through positive affirmations, mindfulness practices, or seeking support from mental health professionals. Understanding that everyone has flaws and that these do not define one’s worth is vital to nurturing a loving relationship with oneself.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

During my deployment, I had the opportunity to read “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, which profoundly influenced my journey toward finding purpose and pursuing entrepreneurship. The book tells the story of Santiago, a shepherd who embarks on a quest to discover his personal legend, and it resonated deeply with me during a time of uncertainty and introspection.

One of the most valuable lessons I took from “The Alchemist” is the idea that “when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” This concept fueled my belief that determination and passion can open doors and create opportunities, even in the most challenging situations. It encouraged me to embrace my dreams and actively work towards them, no matter how lofty they seemed.

Another impactful nugget is the emphasis on following one’s heart and intuition. Coelho brilliantly illustrates that we often know what we truly desire deep down, but fear or doubt can hold us back. This lesson served as a reminder to trust myself and take risks—essential qualities for any entrepreneur. It inspired me to pursue my aspirations with confidence and to remain resilient in the face of obstacles.

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