Why Speak Your Mind Exists

Speak Your Mind started after Mario experienced firsthand what many men live with quietly.

On the outside, life looked successful. On the inside, he felt disconnected, overwhelmed, and unsure how to ask for help. When he finally found support through honest conversation and community, he realized how many other men were struggling in the same way.

Speak Your Mind exists to make sure men don’t have to carry it alone.

The gap we see from hosting thousands of men’s groups

Our work with thousands of men has revealed a common gap: stigma discourages openness, isolation limits support, and loneliness takes hold when meaningful connection is missing.

The People Behind the Mission

Mario Spano

Founder & Executive Director

Mario Spano is the founder of Speak Your Mind, a social enterprise rooted in connection, support, and community. After navigating his own mental health challenges, he saw how many men struggle without support or a place to speak openly.

With an MBA and a background in business and entrepreneurship, Mario focuses on building purpose-driven ventures that blend impact with sustainability. Across his work, he is driven by learning, growth, and creating spaces where people can connect honestly, support one another, and show up more fully in their lives.

Matthew Laskowski

Co-Founder & Program Director

Matt plays a central role in creating and holding safe, welcoming spaces for men at Speak Your Mind. As the lead navigator of our Facebook community and one of the group leaders of our virtual men's groups, he brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a natural ability to encourage open, honest conversation.

Matt is deeply passionate about connection, helping men feel seen, supported, and confident enough to speak up, while also valuing the importance of giving others, including women, safe spaces to express themselves. Outgoing, motivating, and grounded, Matt helps guide our community with care, presence, and heart.

Why We're Different?

Speak Your Mind has is developed by coaches and approved by therapists. We have researched and apply real world and modernized strategies to meet men exactly where they are. We believe this is key. There is no fixing, labels, and no pressure. Just real conversations and authentic support that leads to a sense of belonging and natural growth.