TPiH 087 Bret Thomas – Feel Fest

This episode of That Podcast in Hutch is all about feelings – and an upcoming event that hopes to create more public conversation around the topic of mental health in our community. 

Bret Thomas visited the studio to talk about Feel Fest – which is being held in Downtown Hutchinson on Oct. 9 and 10. They’ll have a dance, a run, some movies, and a number of workshops – all built around normalizing feelings and discussions about their effects on our daily lives. 

I really enjoyed this conversation with Bret – who I first met a few years ago when he offered to record a live podcast interview with Brady Scott at the Hutchinson Library. I love Bret’s energy, his passion for our community, and his willingness to throw his effort into helping with fun and meaningful events in Hutchinson. 

Bret shared some of his own mental health experiences, both as a U.S. Army Veteran and as a young man trying to navigate modern life. I appreciated his vulnerability and openness about his life – and his hope that others might find some resources and tools to help them during Feel Fest. 

I hope you’ll take time to listen to our conversation – and that you’ll support the work they’re doing with Feel Fest. 

The event kicks off with a dance from 7-10 p.m. at the Farmer’s Market Pavilion, 103 W. 2nd Ave. 

Saturday morning begins at 9 a.m. with a Run to Remember – to honor those we’ve lost. You can run, walk, or ride in a golf cart if you have mobility issues. Feel Fest City will take place from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on 1st Avenue, in front of the Fox Theater. This segment will include workshops, an open mic event, and a grief tree – where community members can write the name of a loved one in remembrance. 

For more information, including comlete schedule of events, visit feelfest.org