Meet Justine Rodes

We recently connected with Justine Rodes and have shared our conversation below.

JUSTINE, we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

I’ve developed coping mechanisms that help me navigate my mental health, like understanding my limits and recognizing when I need to take a break. I’ve learned that an eight-hour shift isn’t ideal for my well-being, so I prioritize balance in my schedule. Having a strong support system—including my friends, family, and boyfriend—has also been crucial. On top of that, the incredible feedback I receive from my podcast guests reminds me that the work I’m doing truly makes a difference in the mental health space. Knowing that I’m creating change keeps me motivated to keep going.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m the creator of Mentally a Badass, a brand and podcast dedicated to fostering real, unfiltered conversations about mental health. My mission is to encourage vulnerability and authenticity, helping people feel less alone in their struggles. Through my podcast, I create a space where guests openly share their experiences, breaking down stigmas and inspiring others to embrace their journeys—no matter how messy they may be.

What excites me most about Mentally a Badass is the impact it has on people. I often receive messages from listeners who say an episode helped them feel seen or gave them the courage to open up about their own mental health. Knowing that these conversations are making a difference keeps me motivated to push forward.

Beyond the podcast, Mentally a Badass has expanded into an apparel line designed to spark conversations and spread mental health awareness. Each piece carries a message that challenges the stigma and encourages self-acceptance.

Looking ahead, I’m focused on growing the brand, getting Mentally a Badass into more stores, and reaching even more people with these important conversations. At its core, Mentally a Badass is about creating a ripple effect—where one honest conversation leads to another and, eventually, a world where mental health is talked about as openly as physical health.

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?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are self-awareness, resilience, and the ability to connect with others.

Self-awareness has helped me understand my limits, recognize when I need rest, and structure my life in a way that supports my mental health. For those just starting out, I’d recommend taking time to reflect on what truly works for you—whether that’s journaling, therapy, or simply checking in with yourself daily.

Resilience has been crucial in pushing forward despite challenges. There were moments when I questioned if Mentally a Badass was making an impact, but reminding myself why I started and celebrating small wins kept me going. My advice? Embrace setbacks as part of the process and find ways to keep showing up, even on the tough days.

The ability to connect with others has made a huge difference. From podcast guests to my support system, having genuine conversations and building relationships has been both fulfilling and essential to my growth. For those early in their journey, I’d encourage them to be open, seek out like-minded people, and create spaces where honest conversations can happen.

No matter what path you’re on, growth comes from consistency, self-compassion, and surrounding yourself with people who uplift you.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

One book that has played a significant role in my development is The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson. This book really shifted the way I approach both personal growth and the journey of Mentally a Badass. The core message is about the power of small, consistent actions over time and how they compound to create massive results. It helped me realize that even on days when I don’t feel like I’m making huge progress, the little steps I take add up in ways I may not immediately see.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/mentallyabadass
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallyabadass/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/6904076716293461

Image Credits

Nathalie Cortez