Jackson Erdos - Climbing the Mountain Takes Years: American Ninja Warrior on Depression, Identity, and Resilience

In this powerful episode of Hey Man; It’s Ok, we sit down with American Ninja Warrior champion Jackson Erdos for one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever had.Jackson shares his journey from elite youth athlete to world-class competitor—while quietly battling depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation as a teenager. He opens up about checking himself into residential treatment, losing close friends to suicide, and learning that success without identity and support can still feel empty.At just 18 years old, Jackson speaks with rare wisdom about:Why your identity is not your performanceHow mental toughness isn’t about being emotionlessThe danger of tying self-worth to successWhat rehab, therapy, and community truly changed for himWhy “climbing the mountain” takes years—not 30 secondsHow coaching kids and serving others saved his lifeNavigating fame, pressure, and expectations as a young manBridging mental health conversations in sports and youth cultureJackson also talks about his “You Matter / 988” initiative, donating proceeds to suicide prevention, and why showing vulnerability—especially as an athlete—is not weakness, but leadership.This episode is for:Athletes and coachesParents of teensYoung men struggling silentlyAnyone who feels like they should be “doing better” but isn’tIf you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or afraid to ask for help—this conversation is proof that healing is possible and that you don’t have to climb alone.📍 If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.