Episode #31 | Promise to Live: The Conversation that Saves Lives | Brandy Vega and Adam Fisher

This episode of the Counterfeit Emotions podcast focuses on suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and the power of human connection. Curtis is joined by Brandy Vega and Adam Fisher, founders of Promise to Live, who share deeply personal stories—including nearly losing their daughter to suicide—and how that experience led them to create a movement centered on making a simple but powerful promise: to reach out for help in moments of darkness.The conversation emphasizes that suicide is not about wanting to die, but about wanting to end pain. Through stories, frameworks (like ASK: Acknowledge, Support, Keep in Touch), and tangible tools like “pocket hugs,” the episode provides practical ways for anyone to support others and themselves. The core message is clear: there is always hope, you are not alone, and your life matters.Key Themes & TakeawaysThe Power of a PromiseMaking a promise to reach out can increase the likelihood of seeking help by up to 60%.People may not stay for themselves—but they will stay for someone they love.“ASK” Framework (Simple but Life-Saving)Acknowledge the painSupport without trying to fixKeep in touch consistentlyYou don’t need expertise—just presence.Suicide is About Ending Pain, Not Life“People don’t want to kill themselves—they want to kill the pain.”Removing suicide as an “option” reframes thinking during crisis moments.Connection is the CureSitting with someone, listening, and loving them is often enough.Secrets and shame lose power when spoken out loud.Emotions Are Temporary (90-Second Rule)Intense emotional waves typically last ~90 seconds.Interrupting that moment (e.g., with a tactile object like a coin) can save a life.Small Actions Have Massive ImpactA hug, a question, or a small token (“pocket hug”) can interrupt harmful thoughts.One conversation can literally save a life.Everyone Is NeededYour influence reaches people others can’t.The world is not better without you—that’s a lie.Pain Expands Capacity for JoyThe deeper the pain, the greater the future capacity for love, joy, and meaning.CONNECT WITH BRANDY VEGA AND PROMISE TO LIVEhttps://www.promise2live.org/ https://www.instagram.com/promise2liveofficial https://www.instagram.com/brandyvega77/ LISTEN/WATCH/SUBSCRIBE TO THE “COUNTERFEIT EMOTIONS” PODCAST:*Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/counterfeit-emotions-podcast-with-curtis-morley/id1815869994*Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0aGzO1BVLAXyGKfb4absPn?si=8c746decf9514fe3 *YouTube Podcasts - https://www.youtube.com/@AuthenticCurtis/podcasts *Amazon Music Podcasts - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/05e74308-205e-4416-bc73-8fecd006f528/counterfeit-emotions-podcast-with-curtis-morley *iHeartRadio Podcasts - https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-counterfeit-emotions-podca-276824817 *Audible - CONNECT WITH THE “COUNTERFEIT EMOTIONS” PODCAST*Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/authenticcurtis *LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtismorley/ *YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@AuthenticCurtis *TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@authenticcurtis *Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AuthenticCurtis *X - https://twitter.com/AuthenticCurtis *Website - https://www.counterfeitemotions.com/ *Email for general messages - [e-mail] *Collab with us - [e-mail] *Book me to speak = [e-mail] *Sponsor Us - [e-mail] WE LOVE MAIL AND CARE PACKAGES!: Email us for the address: PRODUCTION CREDITS:Recorded at Mindset Content Creation StudiosProduced by Tommy MooreBrought to you by Vodcasts by Tommy Moore Presents - https://www.instagram.com/vodcasts_by_tommymoore/