(Ep 410) Finding Purpose and Stewardship in Mental Health Leadership

Feb 19, 2026

In this episode of "Crafting a Meaningful Life," host Mary Crafts welcomes Tom Telford, CEO of Levo, to delve into the intricate relationship between mental health and overall well-being. Mary and Tom discuss the importance of radical honesty in fostering authentic connections and how true happiness is linked to mental health rather than material possessions. After a recent transformative trip to Egypt, Mary reflects on the emptiness of material accumulation, drawing contrasting insights with Tom about the rich life found in prioritizing mental health.

The conversation shifts to Tom's entrepreneurial journey and his eventual foray into the mental health sector. Tom shares his transformational experience of selling his financial services company and supporting his wife in achieving her dream of becoming a therapist. Together, they invest in Levo, a mission-driven company aiming to address the root causes of mental health issues and provide comprehensive care encompassing hormonal, psychological, and social aspects. The episode is rich with insights into leadership, trust, and the profound impact of stewardship in both personal and professional contexts.

About the Guest:

Tom Telford is a seasoned entrepreneur and the CEO of Levo, a company that focuses on improving mental health care. Tom has an extensive background in financial services, having built and sold two companies before venturing into the mental health industry. After partnering with his wife, a licensed marriage and family therapist, Tom invested in and later became an integral part of Levo, driven by a mission to "lift and make lighter" the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. Tom is renowned for his advocacy of authentic intelligence over artificial intelligence, emphasizing the importance of genuine connection and leadership in business.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Mental Health Care: Levo offers a comprehensive approach to mental health care, addressing biological, psychological, and social aspects to provide personalized and effective support.
• Importance of Authentic Leadership: Tom Telford emphasizes the value of authentic intelligence, fostering environments where trust and integrity form the foundation of leadership.
• Stewardship and Vulnerability: Both Mary and Tom highlight the significance of embracing stewardship and vulnerability in promoting personal growth and healing.
• Radical Honesty as a Healing Tool: The episode illustrates how radical honesty can be a catalyst for healing, breaking down the barriers of hidden traumas and opening pathways to recovery.
• Empowering Future Leaders: Tom’s dedication to empowering others by sharing his experiences and guiding them in their leadership journeys shines through as a key element of his mission.

Notable Quotes:

• "Showing up authentically is about radical honesty and being willing to share your true self." — Tom Telford
• "Stewardship of suffering is a form of love and duty to lift others along their journeys." — Tom Telford
• "Trust isn't just granted, you earn it and then hold it as a stewardship." — Tom Telford
• "The healing starts the moment the hiding stops." — Mary Crafts
• "Leveraging our life experiences for the benefit of others is our ultimate mission." — Tom Telford

Resources:

• Tom Telford on LinkedIn: Follow Tom Telford for insights on mental health and leadership.
• Levo's Website: Learn more about Levo's services and mission at levomind.com.

Explore this enlightening episode further to understand how embracing honesty, integrity, and authentic stewardship can craft a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Keep tuning in for more conversations that delve into the heart of genuine personal and professional growth.