Summary

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with Melissa Hepner about vulnerability, healing from childhood trauma, and the importance of emotional availability. Melissa shares her personal journey through trauma, the impact of her upbringing, and the struggles with perfectionism and shame. They discuss the significance of holding space for emotions, the process of self-discovery, and the necessity of authenticity in healing. The conversation culminates in Melissa's framework for living a fulfilling life, emphasizing the need to quiet the noise, connect with oneself, and embody one's true light. #trauma #childhoodtrauma #shame #perfectionism #mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #fulfilling

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Vulnerability and Strength 01:34 Melissa's Childhood Trauma Story 05:40 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact 10:55 Healing from Generational Wounds 16:10 The Journey of Self-Compassion 21:24 Identifying and Processing Emotions 23:46 Using Personal Experience to Help Others 24:42 Authenticity in Therapy 27:24 The Struggle with Emotional Expression 30:36 Understanding Gender Differences in Emotionality 33:18 The Power of Storytelling 36:40 Building Connections Through Vulnerability 39:22 Navigating Uncomfortable Feelings 43:11 The Impact of Betrayal and Rejection 46:41 Embracing Happiness and Healing 48:50 Framework for a Fulfilling Life 53:04 Exploring Vulnerable Strength 53:05 Mental Health and Cancer Coaching

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In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Fred Moss, a seasoned psychiatrist and mental health advocate. Dr. Moss shares his journey from a chaotic childhood to becoming a healer, emphasizing the importance of communication in mental health. He discusses the impact of psychiatric medications, particularly Prozac, and critiques the prevailing chemical imbalance theory. The conversation explores the flaws in psychiatric treatments, the illusion of relief they provide, and the long-term effects on patients. #mentalhealth #medication #prozac #diagnosis #un-doctor #retrievingsanity #communication #connection

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Fred Moss and His Journey 00:45 Dr. Fred's Early Life and Communication Challenges 05:41 Transition to Psychiatry and Early Experiences 10:05 The Impact of Prozac and the Chemical Imbalance Theory 14:26 The Flaws in Psychiatric Medications 17:51 The Illusion of Relief from Medications 22:42 Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Psychiatric Drugs 25:08 The Journey to Self-Acceptance 26:34 Understanding Misdiagnosis and Treatment 27:31 Life's Challenges and Perceptions of Normalcy 29:15 The Impact of Environment on Mental Health 31:53 The Dangers of Labels and Diagnoses 33:30 Identity and the Influence of Labels 35:13 Psychosis and Reality Perception 37:23 The Regenerative Power of the Human Mind 38:32 The Limits of Human Knowledge 40:06 Ego, Pride, and the Quest for Knowledge 42:21 Healing Through Connection 48:25 Unlearning and Embracing Humanity 53:58 Finding Your True Voice 55:09 Embracing Human Experience 58:18 The Importance of Authenticity 01:00:37 Lessons from Nature 01:01:32 Finding Our True Voice 01:01:43 The Power of Vulnerability

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In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Blake Hunt, a recovery therapist and person in recovery. They discuss Blake's journey through addiction, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of empathy in recovery. Blake shares his experiences of hitting rock bottom, surrendering to help, and ultimately finding purpose in his work as a therapist, helping others navigate their own recovery journeys. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Blake Hunt explore the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing themes of structure, acceptance, and the importance of making amends. They share personal experiences that highlight the ongoing journey of recovery, the significance of community support, and the aspirations for future contributions to the field of addiction treatment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for humility, the power of connection, and the role of surrender in the recovery process.

Chapters (If you care)

00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Mental Health 04:54 The Impact of Family Dynamics 10:23 Hitting Rock Bottom 14:08 The Turning Point: Surrendering to Help 17:24 Becoming a Recovery Therapist 21:27 Navigating Recovery Milestones 24:20 Imposter Syndrome in Therapy 28:17 Finding Common Ground in Recovery 31:16 The Need to Be Heard 33:12 Childhood Influences on Adult Behavior 35:10 Balancing Structure and Freedom 38:51 Navigating Structure and Control in Recovery 39:58 Acceptance and Adaptation in Life 41:39 The Journey of Making Amends 43:58 The Power of Connection and Understanding 45:58 Future Aspirations in Recovery 48:57 Setting Directions Without Timelines 50:50 Addressing Addiction and Community Needs 53:12 The Role of Surrender in Recovery 54:47 Resources and Support in Recovery 57:35 Blake ending

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Check out Blake's stuff here: https://www.blakehuntrecovery.com/ Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources! Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast #recovery #addiction #support #therapy #12steps #retrievingsanity #healing

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Summary In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Willie Handler, a descendant of Holocaust survivors and author of 'Out From the Shadows.' Willie shares his journey of uncovering his family's history, the impact of intergenerational trauma, and the transformative process of writing his memoir. He discusses the challenges of growing up in a household affected by trauma and how it shaped his life. The conversation delves into the importance of storytelling and community healing, as Willie embarks on a new project addressing the hidden victims of trauma. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Willie Handler explore the complexities of intergenerational trauma, particularly in the context of Holocaust survivors. They discuss how trauma can be passed down through generations, the importance of breaking the cycle, and the emotional toll of sharing personal stories. Willie shares his experiences interviewing survivors and the challenges of understanding their childhoods, while also reflecting on his own relationship with his parents and the impact of their experiences on his life. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, support, and therapy in navigating these difficult topics. In this conversation, Willie Handler shares his journey of finding the right therapist, managing trauma, and the importance of storytelling in making a difference in others' lives. He discusses the challenges of healing from trauma, emphasizing that while trauma may not fully heal, it can be managed. The conversation also touches on the significance of seeking help and the resources available for mental health support. You can find Willie's website Here #trauma #traumahealing #mentalhealth #podcast #interview #retrievingsanity #intergenerationaltrauma #holocausteducation

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Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!

Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast

Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!

Summary In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Brett Cortez, a retired physician whose life was dramatically altered by opiate addiction. Brett shares his journey from a successful medical career to the depths of addiction, detailing the pivotal moments that led to his struggles and eventual recovery. The conversation explores themes of personal experience, the impact of addiction, the importance of willingness in recovery, and the role of a higher power in the healing process. In this episode, Keegan and Brett delve into the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing the importance of sponsorship, the nature of addiction as a choice versus a circumstance, and the significance of community support. They share personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and lessons learned throughout their journeys, emphasizing the need to avoid the first drink and recognizing addictive behaviors. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding addiction compared to other illnesses, and the importance of building supportive relationships in recovery. Brett shares valuable insights and wisdom from his experiences, reinforcing the idea that recovery is a continuous journey that requires self-awareness and community support.takeaways

• Brett found common ground with others in rehab.
• His upbringing emphasized academics and achievement.
• A cancer diagnosis led him to pursue medicine.
• Opiates were first introduced during his cancer treatment.
• Boredom became a significant trigger for his addiction.
• He began stealing medication from patients.
• Recovery started after a 90-day rehab stint.
• The gift of desperation is crucial for recovery.
• Willingness is essential for making progress in recovery.
• Building a relationship with a higher power is important. Working with a sponsor is a personal relationship.
• Addiction is not a choice; it's a disease.
• Avoiding the first drink is crucial in recovery.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of addiction.
• Stigma around addiction differs from other illnesses.
• Community support is vital for recovery.
• Friendships can change during recovery.
• Addiction is often viewed as a moral failing.
• Recognizing addictive behaviors is essential.
• Recovery requires ongoing self-awareness and support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Addiction Recovery

02:59 Brett's Journey: From Surgeon to Addiction

05:56 The Impact of Opiates on Brett's Life

08:57 Boredom and Triggers in Addiction

11:55 The Downward Spiral of Addiction

15:01 Recovery Begins: The Role of Rehab

18:13 The Gift of Desperation and Willingness

20:56 Practicing Willingness and Building Trust

23:59 The Importance of a Higher Power

25:33 The Role of Sponsorship in Recovery

28:09 Understanding Addiction: Choice vs. Circumstance

29:46 The Importance of Avoiding the First Drink

33:15 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons Learned

37:19 The Stigma of Addiction vs. Other Illnesses

40:15 Building a Supportive Recovery Community

43:00 Friendships and Relationships in Recovery

45:08 The Moral Perspective on Addiction

51:27 Recognizing Addictive Behaviors

57:22 Wisdom from Recovery Experiences

#addiction #recovery #addictionrecovery #opiate #drugs #alcoholism #desperatation #cancer #fight #onedayatatime

Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!

Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast

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Summary In this engaging conversation, Dale Walsh shares his profound journey through mental health challenges, particularly schizophrenia. He discusses his unique approach to poetry as a means of expression, the misconceptions surrounding mental illness, and the vital role of family support and therapy in his recovery. Dale also reflects on his personal history, the impact of societal perceptions, and his journey of self-reinvention, all while maintaining a humorous and insightful perspective on life. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Dale E Walsh explore the complexities of living with schizophrenia, touching on themes of self-perception, the impact of mental illness on relationships, and the importance of education for families. Dale shares his personal experiences with hospitalizations, coping strategies, and the humor he finds in his condition. The discussion emphasizes the need to challenge stereotypes surrounding mental illness and the significance of response versus reaction in managing relationships with loved ones. Dale also shares his aspirations for the future, including writing projects and personal growth.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dale Walsh and His Journey

02:55 The Poetic Expression of Mental Health

06:02 Understanding Schizophrenia and Its Misconceptions

08:58 Family Dynamics and Support in Mental Health

11:57 The Role of Therapy in Recovery

15:00 The Impact of Personal History on Mental Health

17:57 Reinventing Oneself: The Journey of Dale Walsh

20:59 Conspiracies and Generational Perspectives

27:39 Perceptions of Self and Others

28:47 Understanding Schizophrenia

30:46 Living with Schizophrenia

32:56 Hospitalizations and Rebirths

34:10 Finding Humor in Schizophrenia

37:29 Response vs. Reaction

39:23 Educating Families

40:45 Breaking Codependency

41:34 Future Aspirations

54:07 Challenging Stereotypes

Visit: https://www.dewlivelove.net/

Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!

Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast

Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Zander, the Z Play coach, about the significance of play in our lives, especially as adults. Zander emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our childlike spirit through play, discussing techniques to activate a 'play flow state' and the benefits of activities like juggling and using a footbag. The conversation explores how play can enhance mental health, foster connections, and combat self-consciousness, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace playfulness in their daily lives. In this conversation, Zander shares his passion for play and the importance of creating connections through playful activities. He discusses the ultimate gift of play, the tools he creates to facilitate it, and the personal connections that arise from sharing these experiences. The dialogue explores the challenges of adulting, the need for permission to play, and the responsibility that comes with spreading joy. Zander emphasizes the significance of making time for play, especially in a digital age that often distracts from real human connections. The conversation concludes with a focus on combating digital isolation and the importance of fostering community through play. In this engaging conversation, Keegan Read and Zander explore the challenges of digital addiction, particularly among the younger generation, and the importance of finding balance between technology and real-life interactions. They discuss the significance of play in rediscovering purpose and joy, especially in a world increasingly influenced by AI. The conversation also highlights the power of gratitude in overcoming life's challenges and the importance of mental health awareness, emphasizing the need for accessible crisis support.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Play and Its Importance

03:06 Understanding the Play Flow State

05:57 The Role of Play in Adult Life

09:12 Techniques to Reconnect with Play

12:00 The Benefits of Juggling for Mental Health

15:02 Exploring the Footbag and Its Impact

19:36 The Ultimate Gift of Play

20:26 Creating and Sharing Play Tools

22:30 The Power of Personal Connection

23:43 The Gift of Play and Its Impact

24:37 Permission to Play

26:04 Navigating the Responsibility of Joy

27:40 Making Time for Play

29:00 Breaking Down Barriers to Play

30:36 Play in Serious Situations

32:18 Addressing Digital Distractions

35:20 Combating Digital Isolation

36:54 The Importance of Human Connection

39:13 The Struggle with Digital Addiction

42:06 Finding Balance in Gaming and Real Life

43:03 Rediscovering Purpose in a Tech-Driven World

44:41 The Role of Play in Finding Joy and Purpose

50:15 The Power of Gratitude in Overcoming Challenges

55:20 Crisis Support and Mental Health Awareness

#play #mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #personalgrowth #permission #flowstate #playstate #footbag #digitaladdiction #happiness

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In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Austin Page, a mindset and fitness coach, about his transformative journey from a reckless lifestyle to a purpose-driven life. Austin shares the harrowing details of a life-altering car accident that led him to reevaluate his choices and ultimately find a new identity through rehabilitation and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of mindset in overcoming adversity and encourages listeners to take control of their lives by building a better version of themselves. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Austin Page explore the themes of personal growth, mindfulness, and the importance of setting boundaries. They discuss the significance of living in the present, using regret as a guide for better decision-making, and the necessity of building oneself up before helping others. The dialogue emphasizes the need to identify and cut out negative influences, or 'anchors,' in life, and the power of saying 'no' to foster self-discipline. They also touch on the concept of creating a personal brand to define one's future self and the importance of learning from those we admire. In this conversation, Keegan and Austin explore the importance of implementing daily practices for personal growth, the value of role models, and the connection between physical and mental health. They discuss mindset training, the significance of actions in shaping identity, and the importance of accountability. The episode concludes with a focus on mental health awareness and crisis support resources.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Austin Page and His Journey

02:15 The Life-Changing Accident

06:17 Rehabilitation and Personal Growth

09:20 Finding Purpose Through Pain

12:42 Creating a New Identity

14:36 Mindset and Personal Development

17:21 Embracing the Present: The Power of Today

18:35 Using Regret as a Guide: Learning from Past Mistakes

20:12 Mindfulness and Control: Navigating Life's Challenges

21:55 Building Yourself First: The Path to Selflessness

24:38 Identifying and Cutting Anchors: Letting Go of Negativity

27:31 The Power of No: Setting Boundaries for Self-Improvement

30:41 Creating a Personal Brand: Defining Your Future Self

36:27 Implementing Daily Practices for Personal Growth

39:10 Finding Role Models and Learning from Them

42:22 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health

45:11 Mindset Training: Building Discipline and Accountability

51:44 Creating Identity Through Actions

54:36 Crisis Support and Mental Health Awareness

You can find his website here: https://gymflocoaching.com/

#newyou #retrievingsanity #recovery #reckless #recklesstoredemption #mentalhealth #coach #winthemorning #youcandoit #mentaltraining #self-improvement #personalgrowth #discipline #rolemodels

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