It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Sly Arinto on Mental Wellness in the Workplace
Why is mental wellness still a taboo topic in workplaces?
In this episode of Breaking The Mould, Marie Ampeloquio and co-host Randy Lobiano sit down with Sly Arinto to tackle misconceptions surrounding mental health. Sly bravely shares her personal journey from denial to acceptance of depression and anxiety, revealing how stigma can affect even the strongest leaders. Randy emphasizes why mental wellness must be a foundational part of any organization, not an afterthought.
Together, they discuss practical ways companies can normalize mental health, preemptively support employees, and create environments where it’s okay not to be okay.
Key Highlights:
Misconceptions about mental illness as a character flaw or weakness.
Sly Arinto’s personal journey: denial, diagnosis, and acceptance of depression and anxiety.
The importance of professional help: psychologists, psychiatrists, and life coaches.
How cultural and generational paradigms affect mental wellness discussions.
Mental wellness as a foundational element, not a subset of HR or engagement.
Creating preemptive and normalized conversations about mental health in companies.
The role of leadership in modeling openness and support.
Encouraging safe, authentic, and supportive workplace environments.
Radical Thoughts from the Episode:
Marie Ampeloquio (Host)
“It’s okay not to be okay, and it’s time we normalize that at work.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“Leaders cannot pour from an empty cup mental wellness is foundational.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“We have to make mental health part of how we operate, not just an afterthought.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“Acknowledging struggles isn’t weakness; it’s strength.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“If we treat workplaces as families, we must support each other fully.” - Marie Ampeloquio
Randy Lobiano (Co-host)
“Every leader who is mentally weak cannot be a productive leader.” - Randy Lobiano
“Wellbeing should be the first scorecard, not the fifth.” - Randy Lobiano
“Mental wellness is the foundation that feeds the mind, body, and soul.” - Randy Lobiano
“Acceptance and normalization of mental health should start from within.” - Randy Lobiano
“Small steps in mental health initiatives create big impacts.” - Randy Lobiano
Sly Arinto (Guest)
“Mental illness does not define me; it’s something I manage and grow from.” - Sly Arinto
“It’s hard to accept, but being open about your struggles is a strength.” - Sly Arinto
“Companies must provide safe spaces where employees can be authentic.” - Sly Arinto
“Seeking professional help is not a flaw, it's an essential step.” - Sly Arinto
“If mental wellness is normalized, more people will ask for help before it’s too late.” - Sly Arinto
