Is Kindness the KEY to Better Choices?
Chad Wable
President and CEO at Advanced Behavioral Health, Inc.
In this episode of Anchoring Hope, David Mansilla sits down with Chad Wable, President and CEO of Advanced Behavioral Health, to explore the profound impact of kindness, faith, and resilience in both personal and professional life. With decades of experience in healthcare leadership, Chad shares insights into the challenges and joys of serving others, the value of kindness, and how faith has played a role in shaping his journey.
Serving Others: A Multifaceted Approach to Behavioral Health
Chad Wable leads Advanced Behavioral Health, an organization dedicated to providing mental health, addiction recovery, and social support services.
“Our secret sauce,” Chad explained, “is our ability to be multidimensional. From supporting foster kids to managing money for those with disabilities, we strive to make a difference in every corner of the community.”
Under Chad’s leadership, the organization emphasizes innovation and nimbleness, creating a culture that prioritizes creativity and impact over rigidity.
The Power of Faith in Healthcare
Though Advanced Behavioral Health is not faith-based, Chad’s career has deep roots in Catholic healthcare, where he served for years as CEO of Saint Mary’s Health System.
“When you’re in a hospital—faith-based or not—you often see people finding their faith in the toughest moments,” Chad reflected. “It’s about shining love and care through actions, not just words.”
David and Chad agreed that kindness and love transcend religious affiliations, creating environments where people feel safe, supported, and valued.
Overcoming Life’s Challenges with Resilience and Faith
When asked about his toughest life challenges, Chad spoke candidly about two pivotal experiences:
Physical Challenges: “I had my first hip replacement at 40, and now I’m facing my second,” Chad shared. “It’s tough losing the ability to do what brings you joy. But I’ve learned to adapt and stay hopeful.”
Losing a Parent: Chad recounted the emotional difficulty of losing his mother, highlighting the importance of leaning on faith and family during such times.
David connected with Chad’s experiences, sharing his own journey of losing a parent and finding solace in prayer and trust in God’s plan.
Kindness: A Simple Yet Profound Guiding Principle
When asked what he would write on a billboard for all to see, Chad’s answer was simple yet profound: Be kind.
“In a world where complexity often overwhelms us, it’s the simple things—like kindness—that make the biggest difference,” Chad emphasized.
David and Chad discussed how kindness aligns with biblical teachings, specifically the commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself.” They explored how small, kind decisions can ripple outward, shaping not only our lives but also the lives of those around us.
Conclusion
Chad Wable’s journey reminds us that kindness is a powerful force, capable of creating better choices and brighter futures. In a world that often prioritizes complexity, Chad’s message to “be kind” serves as a timely reminder to return to the simple, profound values that connect us all.
As David Mansilla summed up beautifully, “When you have kindness at your core, you’ll make decisions that not only benefit you but also everyone around you.”
Written by Dhan Ababa
“In a world where complexity often overwhelms us, it’s the simple things—like kindness—that make the biggest difference.”
