In this edition of I Am Merkle, we’re celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month by getting to know several leaders across Merkle and dentsu. Read on to learn about their careers, interests, and perspectives on mental health.
 

1. Tell us about yourself; where did you grow up? Where do you live now?  

• Amy Thorne (AT): I’m a Wisconsin girl through and through. I spent 20 years in Chicago and now I live in Blue Island, IL.
• Anne-Marie Schaffer (AMS): I’ve spent most of my life in Southern California, but I don’t consider myself a typical SoCal gal. As the daughter of parents who immigrated to the US in 1960, I’m a unique blend of Irish and Los Angeleno, with a slight pinch of NYC to round me out as I lived there for two different stints during my adult life. I currently live in Hermosa Beach, CA.  
• Jas Singh (JS): I was born in India and came to the USA when I was 16. I now live in New Jersey.
• Amanda Bleich (AB): I am originally from NY where I pursued a professional dance career throughout my teens. I’ve lived in New York City, and I spent 2014-2021 in Los Angeles, CA. In April 2021 I moved to Sarasota, Florida where I currently reside. Next stop is TBD. 
   

2. What inspires you about Merkle’s workplace culture and how does it support mental health and wellness?

• AT: The opportunity to be an entrepreneur within an organization like dentsu is really a unique differentiator. The journey we’ve been on with our Mental Health and Wellness Business Resource Group (BRG) has helped me and so many others find ways to balance everything through focused awareness.
• AMS: Merkle’s culture is one which fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, transformation, and diversity. Over the last few years, diversity has been championed through the BRGs which have continued to grow and evolve. I’m proud of and inspired by the work the mental health and wellness pillar has contributed to the organization and individual team members, especially helping people gain resilience post-pandemic.
• JS: I am inspired and grateful that Merkle has a BRG dedicated to our Mental Health & Wellness. It provides a safe space for employees to get together. Leadership understands that providing and simply pointing to the benefits page is not enough. They give us the time, space, and budget to invest in our mental health. As an example, employees can educate themselves and then run ongoing programs.
• AB: I am continuously inspired by many people that I interact with – I have met some lovely individuals who have shown great kindness and willingness to help others out. This is especially true of the Wellness BRG, where I have had the privilege of engaging with truly great people. I believe that morals and values are established at the top and will cascade down. Our BRGs and other activities are encouraged by the highest levels of leadership. 
   

3. What does Mental Health Awareness Month and overall wellness mean to you?

• AT: For me, Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to remind ourselves of the importance of checking in with ourselves, but also to have an open dialogue about mental health that until very recently was hushed. Having been married to someone with bipolar disorder that led to numerous hospitalizations due to manic episodes, I understand too well the isolation, loneliness, and lack of support there has been in society. This month means that we are making more progress, so that others don’t have to suffer alone, without understanding or support.
• AMS: Mental Health Awareness Month is an incredibly important time for me, having had a brother who suffered with schizophrenia during his adult life. He had an extremely high intellect and was versed in a variety of topics both historical and current. I watched a bright mind turn dim over the last 30 years and made a commitment to myself that I would give back to the mental health community so that I could continue to help others where I was unable to help him. My brother passed away in 2019, which in many ways is a blessing as I think living through the pandemic would have been even more isolating than the existence he already had. Mental Health Awareness Month gives us the platform to help break the stigma of mental health, find ways to normalize people’s experiences, and to drive both focus and funding toward mental health solutions. 
• JS: Overall wellness to me means a state of equilibrium that transcends mere physical health. Embody well-being with a holistic approach to balancing body, mind, and spirit. Mental Health Awareness Month gives us another opportunity to share and raise awareness. Words are important: what we say, do, and share could help someone in need.
• AB: Mental Health Awareness Month, to me, is a time that we need to truly take a step back and focus on feeling good emotionally and achieving calmness. Overall wellness to me is a dedication to the healing and well-being of the mind, body, and soul. Battling cancer has allowed me to refocus my energy to what is most important for my well-being. This means repeating kind and loving affirmations to myself, nourishing my body with pure foods and water, moving my body, and spending time with loved ones.
   

4. What are some myths and misconceptions surrounding mental health, and how can we debunk them?

• AT: The myth that to compete in business, you had to tuck away any mental health struggles and be “tough as nails” is such a part of the old stigmas in the workplace. Hearing from leaders who have had their personal struggles has certainly helped debunk one of the big myths regarding mental health in the workplace.
• AMS: Too often we hear that only a small percentage of the population struggles with mental health or suffers from mental illness. In reality, this is far from the truth. Mental health issues are much more common than we had once understood. One in every four individuals will be affected by a mental health issue or neurological disorder at some point in their life. Being more open and vocal about the challenges people face will help to minimize the stigma that mental health happens to others.
• JS: Understanding the distinction between mental health and mental illness is crucial. More people need to hear this and learn that mental health is about realizing your abilities to cope with the normal stresses of life to be able to work productively.
• AB: So many of us struggle with our mental health and when we choose to seek professional help, it is often done in secret and with shame. We need to start looking at our mental well-being in the same way that we would look at a physical ailment. We wouldn’t be embarrassed going to the dentist for a toothache or if we needed to get a cavity filled. Struggling with our mental health does not mean that we are bad or shameful, but rather human. We should look at mental health professionals in the same way that we look at other healthcare providers.
   

5. How has the conversation around mental health and wellness evolved over the years, and what progress still needs to be made?

• AT: They used to say that mental illness was the only illness where no one brought casseroles over because there was no one talking about it out in the open. When my uncle was diagnosed as bipolar, my grandparents were embarrassed and didn’t have the words to describe what was going on with my uncle. That conversation and resources have truly evolved so much and I’m grateful that more and more people are finding comfort, acceptance, and community on the topic.
• AMS: The conversation around mental health has become just that − a conversation! In prior years and decades, people simply didn’t talk about mental health issues. But today, people are more open and able to provide advocacy for themselves or others in order to lead a life that is more harmonized and balanced.
• JS: The conversation around mental health and wellness has significantly evolved over the years. It has shifted from being a taboo or stigmatized topic to a more open and accepted discussion. More people are now recognizing the importance of mental health and its impact on overall well-being. However, there is still progress to be made – in my view, we need to bring a human element to everything we do. More needs to be done to educate that a mentally healthy workforce is not only beneficial for the employees but also contributes to the overall productivity and success of the business. As an example, we can keep time in meetings to inspire and motivate. Especially when things are tough, leaders can assure employees that we will get through this together – I think this will help reduce a lot of anxiety and stress.
• AB: It used to be something that was so hush hush and almost taboo. We’re now more open to discussing it. But we still need to remove the stigma attached to speaking with a therapist, being in a support group, or even needing medication.
   

6. What are some practical tips for managing stress and anxiety you use in your daily life?

• AT: I’m a big believer that practicing conscientious gratitude can put everything into perspective. This can show up daily through activities like exercise, playing with your pet, eating a healthy meal that you took care to prepare – these are all ways that I’ve found to help reduce stress and anxiety.
• AMS: Exercise can provide an amazing outlet for anyone who is stressed or anxious. Even a short brisk walk can elevate endorphins, which help to relieve pain, reduce stress, and enhance your overall mood.
• JS: When things are tough, pause & breathe! Have hope and know that no matter what is going on, it shall pass. You will survive and come out stronger.
• AB: When things seem a bit overwhelming, try to take a break and get some fresh air. A little time away can help to put things into their proper perspective. If something is gnawing at you, speak to a friend or family member. Try not to let things bottle up inside and then one day erupt.
   

7. What role can friends, family members, and allies play in supporting loved ones with mental health and wellness struggles?

• AT: Our support network and the importance of connecting with others cannot be underestimated. Getting out and back together with those you trust and love is activating your network to give them support and in that we support each other.
• AMS: Friends and family can provide a safe haven for anyone with a mental health or wellness issue, as they provide an environment that is non-judgmental.
• JS: Be aware and check in occasionally, especially when noticing something is not right. Be there and provide a space to listen without judgment. Sometimes we don’t need solutions, just words that someone is with us and that we will get through this.
• AB: Being there with open minds, open hearts, and a willingness to listen without having to “fix a problem.”
   

8. What is one way you intend to raise awareness for mental health and wellness this month?

• AT: I’m doing a sound healing session that is being held to raise awareness in my small southside community.
• AMS: A few years back, we had a Merkle book club that I supported among our Growth community and I’ve been thinking of bringing a version of it back this month so we can read a wellness-focused book that would provide a mental health boost to the people who participate. I’m thinking of picking the book “Wellness: A Novel” by Nathan Hill.
• JS: Share quotes and short videos. Keep time in meetings to increase awareness with personal stories and utilize simple techniques like breathing and mindfulness.
• AB: Taking the time to check in with others – sometimes silence does not mean that everything is okay. And setting boundaries for myself and maybe saying no a little more often. Leading by example by acting from a place of self-love.
   

9. Rapid fire:

• Favorite food?
  • AT: Passion fruit – ice cream, smoothies, flan… if it's on the menu, I’m probably ordering it.
  • AMS: Charcuterie (does that count?).
  • JS: Yellow daal (lentils), roti, and glass of mango lassi.
  • AB: Various smoothies (raw, vegan, gluten-free) by Bare Blends – delicious, nutritious, and supporting a small business.
• Favorite book?
  • AT: Mutiny on the Bounty trilogy
  • AMS: Catcher in the Rye (I read it every year)
  • JS: I have three: Be Your own Therapist by Lama Yeshe; Many Lives Many Masters; and Celestine Prophecy.
  • AB: I'm Not a Mourning Person: Braving Loss, Grief, and the Big Messy Emotions That Happen When Life Falls Apart by Kris Carr
• Favorite podcast?
  • AT: Smartless! I laugh for days!!
  • AMS: Also Smartless
  • JS: Mel Robbins
  • AB: Under the Skin – Russell Brand
• Favorite TV show/movie?
  • AT: Empire Records (the soundtrack is so fab)
  • AMS: The Bear
  • JS: Only You (1994)
  • AB: Curb Your Enthusiasm and We Were the Lucky Ones
• Favorite hobby/activity?
  • AT: Gardening. I love growing things.
  • AMS: Bootcamp, specifically Orange Theory. It’s my religion.
  • JS: Lifetime learning, sharing, and techniques from wisdom traditions for self-discovery and improvement.
  • AB: Hot yoga, long walks at Nathan Benderson Park, and playtime with my cat, Olaf
• Favorite Mental Health or Wellness App?
  • AT: Calm
  • AMS: Calm
  • JS: Calm
  • AB: Calm
• Favorite quote?
  • AT: “Keep your heels, head, and standards high.” - Coco Chanel
  • AMS: “If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.” - Napoleon Hill
  • JS: “This too shall pass.”
  • AB: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” ― Wendy Mass, “The Candymakers”
• Best advice or mantra to live by?
  • AT: Find beauty in each day.
  • AMS: If you can dream it, you can do it.
  • JS: Always be in CHARDI KALA – ASCENDING OPTIMISM. Chardi Kala means to rise above adversity, challenges, and difficult times. It is to accept whatever is going on in our lives with gratitude and optimism.
  • AB: Follow your own heart. Listen to your gut. Remember to breathe. Everything is temporary. Put on your own oxygen mask first.
     

About the Contributors

Amy Thorne | EVP, Performance Creative Business Lead – Dentsu Creative

Amy is a passionate and dynamic business leader with 20+ years of experience in integrated marketing communications. She excels in leading both B2B and B2C creative groups with a performance mindset. As a brand-to-demand and ad tech-enabled creative thinker, Amy thrives on building and reimagining creative solutions that effectively address the challenges facing brands in today’s complicated marketing landscape. She has a proven track record of building successful businesses, developing high-performing teams, and converting new opportunities with a focus on delivering measurable results.

Key passion areas for Amy include her DEI Executive Sponsorship @ dentsu, SATT Leadership Development and McKinsey Exec Program Mentor. When Amy isn’t delivering results for clients, business is still on her mind as her and her partner own a thriving coffee, wine + HiFi shop on Chicago’s southside. This, plus Pilates, distance running, and travel occupy her spare time.

Anne-Marie Schaffer | Chief Client Officer – Merkle

Anne-Marie is the Chief Client Officer at Merkle, responsible for ensuring that the company's clients receive top-notch service and results. With over 25 years of experience in marketing and technology, she helps shape the strategic direction of the organization and delivers innovative, data-driven solutions to clients. Anne-Marie is a seasoned marketing executive with a 360-degree approach to marketing across digital, CRM, mobile, promotions, and traditional channels.

Before joining Merkle, she was President of PHD West and expanded Ignited's media presence in New York. She has also held leadership roles at MEC, Team One Advertising, and TBWA/Chiat Day. Anne-Marie holds a bachelor's degree from UCLA and has completed management courses at Babson and Duke Universities. She is also a wife, mom, mentor, travel lover, world championship Irish dancer, and bootcamp fanatic. You can connect with Anne-Marie on LinkedIn here.

Jas Singh | VP, AI Integrations & Emerging Tech - Merkle

Jas is a passionate advocate for leveraging technology to drive digital transformation and innovation. With over 20 years of experience in the technology industry, he has had the privilege of leading initiatives at the intersection of artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and business strategy. As the Vice President of AI Integrations & Emerging Technologies at Merkle, Jas is strategically leading the inception and execution of AI productivity initiatives, both internally and externally, positioning the company as a pioneer in AI-driven solutions. 

Jas joined the Mental Health group in 2019 and helped to revisit its mission statement and added Wellness as an additional focus area that he is passionate about. As a founding member, he is co-lead of dentsu’s Wellness BRG. Jas has studied Psychology, Sociology, and Organizational Behavior and is certified in Mindfulness, Chopra Meditation, Health, Positive Psychology, & Resilience. He is also a well-being coach trained in transformation coaching.

Jas won the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion Award at the 2022 Merkle Employee Awards for his endless effort in supporting employees’ wellness across dentsu. He founded and leads an ongoing program, “Motivational Mondays,” which was launched in November 2020 as a pilot. The group now has 1000+ members and has had 300+ sessions. Merkle and dentsu employees meet every Monday at 8:30 am & 1:00 pm EST to start their “Mondays inspired, motivated and focused.”

Amanda Bleich | Senior Manager, Digital and Programmatic - dentsu

Amanda Bleich joined dentsu in October 2021 and has since had a focus on programmatic advertising working with clients in the healthcare vertical. Prior to this opportunity, Amanda worked at numerous advertising, media, and ad tech companies.

In addition to working in advertising/media, Amanda is dedicated to a consistent practice of hot yoga, teaching students in-person and virtually, leading a kind lifestyle as a vegan for more than 10 years, and advocating for fellow human beings and animals alike. Amanda began teaching yoga in Los Angeles, California in 2018 and continues to teach in Venice, Florida. She has done advocacy work for the Catskill Animal Sanctuary, NCJW/LA, and the City of West Hollywood where she served on the Women’s Advisory Board from 2017-2021. Amanda has been focused on the anti-human trafficking movement for more than 5 years and she currently volunteers for Selah Freedom, an organization dedicated to serving survivors of sex trafficking. Amanda is a breast cancer survivor.