In this episode of Fear Less, Zack interviews Hann Bernardi, the Animal and Farm Coordinator at Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Hann shares their journey from working as a conventional farmer to now using animal husbandry and farm work to help youth heal from their mental health challenges. Hann discusses how the farm at Mountain Valley is used to help residents overcome fears and anxieties, emphasizing the therapeutic impact of fostering a deeper connection between humans, animals, and the land. They dive into the concept and philosophy of “stewardship”, and how working with animals on the farm helps residents develop life skills, foster self-efficacy, and find a greater sense of purpose as they become active contributors to something bigger than themselves.

Listeners can expect to learn more about what the day-to-day farm work is like at Mountain Valley, the different animals and projects included in the farm, and how farm life provides valuable lessons in communication, boundaries, and self-care. Hann also shares vulnerably about how their work at Mountain Valley has served as a powerful mirror for their own struggles and has played a large role in their personal growth. Hann is a beautiful soul, full of wisdom and insight, and this episode is a must listen for anyone who is curious about the healing power of farming, animals, and working with the land.

Zack’s Hack: In this week’s anxiety hack Zack talks about how having a pet can help you fear less!

Fear Less is sponsored by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.