Episode Summary

As technology becomes embedded in daily life, the conversation around mental health has grown more complex. We hear constantly about the risks. But there is a less discussed perspective: technology may be one of our most powerful tools for improving mental health outcomes and preventing suicide.

Dr. Dan Reidenberg has spent decades at the forefront of suicide prevention. He serves as Managing Director at the National Council for Suicide Prevention and is the founder of Safe Online Standards — the world's first rating system for technology companies on mental health and wellbeing.

In this conversation, we explore the dual nature of technology in mental health, what leaders most misunderstand about suicide prevention, the responsibility of technology platforms, and why Dan believes AI may be the field's greatest source of hope.

Key Themes

• The dual role of technology — risk and protective factor in mental health

• How algorithms amplify mental health vulnerability

• Why suicide never has a single cause — and what that means for prevention

• What leaders most misunderstand about suicide in the workplace

• Safe Online Standards: the world's first rating system for social media platforms

• AI as a protective factor — 24/7 access to support when clinicians aren't available

• The human-in-the-loop imperative in behavioral healthcare

• Why young people's willingness to talk gives Dan his greatest hope

About the Guest

Dr. Dan Reidenberg is one of the leading voices in suicide prevention and behavioral health. He serves as Managing Director at the National Council for Suicide Prevention and is the founder of Safe Online Standards — the world's first comprehensive rating system for technology companies on mental health, wellbeing, suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders, released February 2026. Throughout his career he has advised technology companies, healthcare organizations, and corporate leaders on evidence-based approaches to prevention and breaking through stigma.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-reidenberg-9264864/

Safe Online Standards: https://www.safeonlinestandards.org/

About the Host

Amanda Verner Thompson is the founder of Madison Advisory AI and host of the Madison Advisory AI Podcast. With nearly two decades of investment banking experience, she has advised founders, operators, and investors on healthcare and behavioral health transactions — from capital raises to sell-side M&A. Madison Advisory AI is a boutique advisory firm at the intersection of strategy, capital, and AI adoption, focused on healthcare services and behavioral health.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-verner-thompson/

Madison Advisory AI Website: https://www.madisonadvisory.ai/

Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (US)

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741