Lifelines with
David and John:
The 988 Podcast

Click on the episodes below to watch and/or listen to pre-recorded podcasts.

Discover the Heart of Crisis Intervention

Join us on Lifelines with David and John, a 988 Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating
world of crisis intervention and explore the inception and growth of the transformative 988
lifeline. Since its launch on July 16, 2022, 988 has become a beacon of hope and innovation in
suicide and crisis prevention.

988 podcast

MEET YOUR HOSTS:
DAVID COVINGTON &
DR. JOHN DRAPER

Embark on this voyage with our esteemed hosts, David Covington and Dr. John Draper, as they share their professional paths and contributions to the field. David, the visionary behind the Atlanta crisis center, and Dr. John, a key figure in post-9/11 mental health disaster response, have played crucial roles in shaping the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the emergence of 988.

Lifelines with David & John: The 988 Podcast is not just a podcast; it’s a movement towards a future where every call for help is met with understanding, and every individual in crisis finds a beacon of hope. Tune in to be part of this crucial conversation.

CELEBRATING CRISIS INTERVENTION HEROES

Lifeline is more than a platform for discussion—it’s a tribute to the dedicated crisis workers in call centers, mobile teams, and stabilization units. Through captivating stories and engaging dialogue, Lifelines with David & John aims to inspire, inform, and advocate for a future where crisis support is synonymous with genuine care.

Do you have an inspiring story? Click here to share your story and be considered for a future podcast.

Podcast Recordings

Facility Crisis Care: Did You Feel Received? – Ep 013

In this conversation, Kevin Curtis, the Director of Hospital Crisis Services for the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, discusses the development of the Kevin Carolyn Gardner Mental Health Crisis Care Center in Salt Lake City. The center aims to provide a warm and...

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Improving Access: Overcoming Cultural Disparities – Ep012

David Covington, John Draper, and Pierluigi Mancini discuss the importance of linguistic and cultural focus in behavioral health services, the value of peer support, and the need for linguistic access in crisis care. Pierluigi shares his recovery journey and the...

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Beyond Beds: A Core Crisis Continuum – Ep 011

  David Covington, Dr. John Draper, and Dr. Brian Hepburn delve into the world of crisis intervention and mental health care. Through personal anecdotes, they explore the evolution of crisis care, the critical role of Medicaid, and the significance of...

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Change Maker: Fighting While Wounded – Ep 010

In this conversation, Tonja Myles discusses her recovery journey, spirituality's role in mental health, and her work with the Huntsman Family Foundation. She emphasizes the importance of faith and hope in the recovery process and the need for high-quality treatment...

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Training: Preparing Professionals for Crisis – Ep 009

  In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Singer, a renowned suicide prevention specialist and professor of social work, delves into crisis intervention, the future of mental health treatment for children, and the vital role schools play in teaching mental health....

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Living: A Need for Connection and Belonging – Ep 008

In this episode, David and John interview Dr. Thomas Joiner, an expert in suicide research. They talk about how suicide connects to evolutionary biology. The discussion covers: Self-sacrifice in social insects and its relation to human suicide. Higher suicide rates...

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Courage: The Papageno Effect – Ep 007

  David and John welcome Dr. Thomas Niederkrotenthaler, a suicidologist and mental health researcher, to discuss the Papageno Effect, which focuses on stories of hope and recovery. During this episode, the trio discusses the power of storytelling and its impact...

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Making an Impact: Crisis Care for Everyone – Ep 006

David Covington and John Draper discuss various topics related to crisis care and suicide prevention. They are joined by guest Joy Brunson-Nsubuga, who shares insights on her career and focus in crisis care. The conversation covers themes such as expanding crisis care...

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Work To Do: Feeling Safe to Talk – Ep 004

In this podcast episode, David and Dr. John are joined by guest Professor Chan Lai Fong, who shares insights on suicide prevention efforts in Malaysia. The conversation covers themes such as: The importance of decriminalizing suicide Reducing access to lethal means...

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Guardian: We Work the Golden Gate Bridge – Ep 003

Kevin Briggs, the “Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge,” joins David and John at the Lifelines Podcast. They discuss his book, “Guardian of the Golden Gate,” and his experiences as a crisis negotiator, particularly dealing with individuals contemplating suicide on the...

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History: Our Long and Winding Road with 911 – Ep 002

Dr. Richard McKeon from SAMHSA joins David and John to discuss the pivotal integration of 988 and 911 services. They explore the evolution of suicide prevention, highlighting the shift toward proactive support for individuals in crisis and detailing strategies to aid...

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