Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

Trigger Notice + Crisis Support This episode includes discussion of sudden cardiac arrest, near-death experiences, suicidal ideation, and mental health crises. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available.Call or text 988 (U.S.) — Suicide & Crisis LifelineOr visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources. What happens to your mind when your heart stops and you come back? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jeff Luther, a father and athlete who survived sudden cardiac arrest, to talk about fear, trauma, resilience, and how rebuilding life sometimes starts in 30-second increments. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You still choose. Even when everything is taken away, you still get to choose.” — Jeff Luther Episode Description Jeff Luther was fit and competitive, training alongside his teenage son, when his heart suddenly stopped. No pulse. No breath. Two shocks from an AED brought him back — but life as he knew it was over. In this raw and deeply human episode, Jeff joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about surviving sudden cardiac arrest, living with trauma, and the mental health fallout no one prepares you for. From the fear of his own body betraying him again, to the shame of pretending to be strong instead of being honest, Jeff opens up about what it really means to rebuild a life after death. This conversation goes beyond survival. Jeff shares what it felt like to truly believe he was dying, why gratitude felt impossible at first, and how resilience didn’t come from pushing harder — but from choosing again and again to stay. Sometimes for a year. Sometimes for a day. Sometimes for just 30 seconds. They also explore how trauma reshapes identity, how children carry invisible fear, and why connection — not toughness — is the real currency of healing. Jeff’s story is a reminder that mental health struggles don’t always come from weakness. Sometimes they come from surviving something that should have ended you. If you’ve ever faced a life-altering event, lived with anxiety after trauma, or wondered how to keep going when fear takes over, this episode will meet you exactly where you are. SEO Keywords: Jeff Luther, sudden cardiac arrest survivor, near-death experience, trauma recovery, mental health podcast, resilience, anxiety after trauma, cardiac arrest recovery, mindset healing, overcoming fear, post-traumatic growth, emotional resilience Meet Our Guest — Jeff Luther Jeff Luther is a speaker, mindset coach, and sudden cardiac arrest survivor who helps people question the stories they tell themselves and rebuild their lives after trauma. After collapsing in front of his teenage son and being clinically dead for eight minutes, Jeff began a journey of resilience, belief work, and intentional living — 30 seconds at a time. Connect with Jeff:Website: https://www.jeffluther.comPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-inspector-alliance/id1658627241Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdluther2.0/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdluther2.0LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-luther/ Key Takeaways Surviving trauma doesn’t automatically bring gratitude — it brings reality. Fear often shows up after the crisis, not during it. You don’t have to rebuild your life all at once; sometimes 30 seconds is enough. Strength without connection can turn into silent suffering. Children notice more than we think, even when we try to protect them. Healing begins when we question the stories we tell ourselves. Actionable Items When overwhelmed, ask: “What can I handle for the next 30 seconds?” Challenge catastrophic thoughts by asking: “Is that actually true?” Check in with loved ones using open-ended questions and listen without fixing. References Mentioned 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.orgGlobal Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:03:00 – Jeff’s daily rituals and the guilt of slowing down 00:10:30 – Collapsing at the gym and surviving sudden cardiac arrest 00:18:45 – Fear, bitterness, and losing trust in his own body 00:29:00 – Emotional rock bottom and wanting to quit 00:32:30 – The 30-second decision that changed everything 00:38:00 – Trauma, parenting, and the cost of pretending you’re okay 00:47:00 – Being shocked back to life and facing fear again 00:53:00 – Advice to his younger self and the danger of comparison Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review.Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favo

Trigger Notice + Support This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation, abuse, cancer, and trauma recovery.If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone.In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.For international support, visit: https://findahelpline.com What happens when life tries to break you—and you decide not to let it? In this powerful, unfiltered conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with therapist and survivor Zulma Williams to talk trauma, healing, and why you don’t need to be “fixed” to move forward. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “If you woke up today, your mission in life is not complete.” — Zulma Williams Episode Description Zulma Williams has survived more than most people can imagine—breast cancer, abusive relationships, depression, and suicidal ideation. But she never saw herself as a victim. In this raw, honest episode, Zulma joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share why survival isn’t about toughness—it’s about truth. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Zulma moved to the United States in her 30s, reinvented herself in midlife, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after cancer forced her to stop and reevaluate everything. Along the way, she learned something powerful: trauma doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you adapted. Zulma opens up about emotional and verbal abuse, how subtle control can dismantle your sense of self, and why so many people don’t realize they’re being harmed until they’re already isolated. She also explains why therapy only works when you’re allowed to be fully yourself—swearing included. As a Certified Master ART Practitioner, Zulma talks about trauma recovery, nervous system healing, and why short-term, evidence-based therapies can create real change. This conversation is bold, validating, and deeply human—especially for anyone who feels “too old,” “too damaged,” or “too far gone” to start over. This episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t require perfection. It requires honesty, courage, and the willingness to honor your own internal hero. SEO Keywords: Zulma Williams, trauma recovery, mental health podcast, therapy healing, PTSD support, emotional abuse recovery, anxiety and depression, ART therapy, survivor mindset, suicide prevention, healing trauma, self-worth, resilience, therapy that works Meet Our Guest — Zulma Williams, LCSW, ACSW, CTMH Zulma Williams is the founder of Dragonfly Therapy Services and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma recovery. A breast cancer survivor and Certified Master ART Practitioner, Zulma brings lived experience, direct honesty, and evidence-based care to help clients stop surviving and start healing. Connect with Zulma:Website: https://www.dragonflytherapyservices.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DragonflyTSLVInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theswearingtherapistYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theswearingtherapistLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulma-williams-ab7609214/ Key Takeaways Trauma doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you adapted to survive. Emotional and verbal abuse are real, damaging, and often invisible. You’re never “too old” to change your life or start over. Therapy only works when you’re allowed to be your authentic self. Being vulnerable is a strength, not a weakness. You are allowed to choose yourself—even if others don’t like it. Actionable Items If therapy doesn’t feel safe or real, give yourself permission to find a better fit. Ask yourself: “Am I honoring my internal hero—or ignoring them?” Notice where you’re minimizing your pain and name it honestly. References Mentioned Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:02:00 – Zulma’s immigration journey and starting over 00:10:30 – Going back to school later in life 00:15:00 – Recognizing emotional and verbal abuse 00:22:00 – Therapy, trauma, and reclaiming your voice 00:30:00 – Why authenticity matters in healing 00:37:00 – Self-care, self-love, and choosing yourself 00:40:00 – Zulma’s message to anyone still struggling Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaRecovery #TherapyWorks #PTSDHealing #SurvivorStory #EmotionalA

Trigger Notice & Support Reminder This episode includes discussion of suicide, sexual assault, trauma, addiction, and cancer.If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available.Call or text 988 in the U.S. or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources. What if forgiveness wasn’t about letting someone off the hook — but about finally setting yourself free? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Katherine Giovanni to talk about trauma, anger, and how forgiveness can be a deeply personal, life-changing act of self-healing. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Forgiveness isn’t about them. It’s about getting your life — and your peace — back.”— Katherine Giovanni Episode Description Forgiveness gets thrown around a lot — but nobody really teaches us how to do it, or what to do when we don’t want to. In this deeply human and eye-opening episode, Katherine Giovanni joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to flip the script on forgiveness, trauma, and healing. A three-time award-winning author, transformation mentor, and stage 3 breast cancer survivor, Katherine shares her powerful personal journey through childhood trauma, addiction, loss, and survival — and how forgiveness became the tool that helped her reclaim her life. Not as a pass for harmful behavior, but as a boundary-setting, self-preserving act of freedom. Katherine introduces her practical, step-by-step forgiveness process, including her unique approach to forgiving not only people but also the energy around painful memories. Together, the trio explores why forgiveness is selfish (in the best way), why you don’t owe anyone a relationship, and why some things may never be forgivable — and that’s okay. They also dive into forgiving yourself, releasing guilt and shame, and even unpack why our relationship with money often needs forgiveness, too. This conversation is raw, insightful, and unexpectedly empowering — especially for anyone who feels stuck replaying old wounds or carrying anger that’s quietly draining their joy. If you’ve ever said, “I’ll never forgive them,” this episode might just change how you think about healing — and about yourself. Keywords: Katherine Giovanni, forgiveness, emotional healing, trauma recovery, self-forgiveness, mental health podcast, letting go, emotional freedom, healing from abuse, guilt and shame, boundaries, cancer survivor, addiction recovery, forgiveness process Meet Our Guest — Katherine Giovanni Katherine Giovanni is a three-time award-winning best-selling author, speaker, and one of the original founders of the independent concierge industry. A stage 3 breast cancer survivor and transformation mentor, she helps people release guilt, shame, and emotional blocks through forgiveness, intuition, and self-awareness. Connect with Katherine:Website: https://www.katharinegiovanni.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katharine.giovanniInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katharinegiovanniYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0PPtlSUPldGNl9mIRRtAmALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinegiovanni/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kathgiovanniSubstack: https://katharinegiovanni.substack.com/ Key Takeaways Forgiveness is not weakness — it’s a powerful act of self-protection. You can forgive someone without allowing them back into your life. Holding onto anger keeps you stuck in the past; forgiveness restores your freedom. Forgiving the energy around a memory helps stop emotional triggers. Self-forgiveness is often the hardest — and most important — healing step. Healing is a marathon, not a sprint. Actionable Items Write a forgiveness list and start with the easiest people first — not the biggest wounds. Practice forgiving the energy around painful memories, not just the people involved. Check in with your body after forgiveness work and pace yourself gently. References Mentioned The Ultimate Path to Forgiveness by Katherine Giovanni 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:03:00 – Why forgiveness is misunderstood and rarely taught 00:06:30 – The truth about forgiving without reconnecting 00:10:00 – Katherine’s step-by-step forgiveness process 00:14:30 – Forgiving trauma, abuse, and the “unforgivable.” 00:23:00 – Why forgiving yourself is often the hardest part 00:31:00 – Forgiving money and breaking old survival patterns 00:38:30 – Freedom, peace, and reclaiming your life Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your

What happens when you do everything right, earn the degrees, land the title, and build security, yet still feel empty inside? In this powerful Season 16 opener, G Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Esther Zeldon to talk honestly about burnout, anxiety, people pleasing, and the moment you realize the life you built is slowly eroding your mental health. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “There is no such thing as real safety if you are betraying yourself to keep it.” — Dr. Esther Zeldon Episode Description Burnout does not always come from failure. Sometimes it comes from success. In this raw and deeply human conversation, Dr. Esther Zeldon joins G Rex and Dirty Skittles to unpack what happens when a lifetime of chasing stability, titles, and external validation leads straight to anxiety, depression, and disconnection from purpose. Esther shares her powerful story, from surviving a life-threatening illness as a child, to becoming a high-achieving diplomat and international development professional, to realizing that the “safe” life she built was quietly damaging her mental health. Together, they explore how childhood trauma can disguise itself as ambition, why people pleasing keeps so many of us stuck in toxic jobs, and how fear of failure often hides a deeper fear of finally being honest with ourselves. This episode is not about reckless quitting or overnight success. It is about alignment. It is about learning to say no. It is about recognizing that security is often an illusion, and that true safety comes from knowing you can rebuild, pivot, and survive hard seasons without abandoning who you are. Esther also opens up about anxiety, financial fear, boundaries, and the realities of entrepreneurship, including losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in contracts and choosing purpose anyway. If you are quietly burning out, questioning your career, or feeling guilty for wanting more meaning in your life, this conversation will resonate. Keywords: Esther Zeldon, career burnout, anxiety, mental health, toxic workplace, purpose-driven life, people pleasing, trauma healing, entrepreneurship stress, alignment, emotional wellness, burnout recovery, meaningful work Meet Our Guest, Dr. Esther Zeldon Dr. Esther Zeldon is a coach, best-selling author, social entrepreneur, and former diplomat dedicated to helping people uncover their unique superpower and live purpose-driven lives. With global experience spanning governments, nonprofits, and communities, Esther blends strategy, science, and compassion to help individuals and organizations create sustainable impact without sacrificing mental health. Website: https://beactchange.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beactchange/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be.act.change/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beactchange Key Takeaways Burnout can come from success just as easily as failure. Anxiety often stems from living out of alignment, not weakness. Safety is often a trauma response, not a true motivator. People pleasing keeps you stuck in toxic environments. Saying no is a mental health skill, not a personality flaw. Purpose is not found; it is remembered. Actionable Items Write down what safety really costs you emotionally. Identify one boundary you need to set this month and honor it. Ask yourself, am I chasing security, or am I chasing alignment? References Mentioned Purpose-driven coaching and alignment work: https://beactchange.com Important Chapters 00:02 - Esther’s childhood trauma and how safety became her driving force 06:30 - High achievement, toxic workplaces, and silent burnout 12:45 - Anxiety, depression, and people pleasing patterns 18:00 - Leaving security and facing fear head-on 25:30 - Financial fear, entrepreneurship, and redefining success 33:00 - Boundaries, saying no, and protecting your peace 40:00 - Purpose, joy, and mental health alignment Closing Call to Action Subscribe, rate, and review. Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CareerBurnout #AnxietySupport #PurposeDrivenLife #ToxicWorkplace #EmotionalWellness #BurnoutRecovery #PeoplePleasing #TraumaHealing #MentalHealthMatters #AlignmentOverAchievement #HealingJourney ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to

Season 15 reminded us why this podcast exists. In this special season ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down as friends — not interviewers — to reflect on the stories, lessons, laughter, and growth that defined the season, and how healing shows up when you keep showing up for each other. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Healing is easier when you’re not doing it alone — sometimes all it takes is someone willing to sit with you in the mess.” — G-Rex Episode Description This episode is different — and intentional. There are no guests this time. Just G-Rex and Dirty Skittles closing out Season 15 together, reflecting on what they learned, how they grew, and why this podcast has become more than just a show. Throughout the season, we heard stories about anxiety, OCD, PTSD, medical trauma, parenting through crisis, creativity as healing, and learning how to advocate for yourself when life doesn’t play fair. But as we looked back, something else stood out just as clearly — the power of connection, humor, and friendship in the middle of hard seasons. In this season ender, we talk honestly about growth, boundaries, resilience, and the lifelong work of healing. We reflect on how our guests helped us learn, laugh, and sometimes rethink the way we handle our own mental health. This conversation is about choosing hope, staying curious, and reminding ourselves that it’s okay to still be learning. Season 15 comes full circle here — grounded, grateful, and hopeful for what’s next. SEO Keywords: mental health podcast, season recap, healing journey, resilience, trauma recovery, anxiety support, PTSD healing, emotional wellness, self advocacy, hope, therapy tools, mental health awareness Season 15 Episodes, Air Dates & Lessons Learned Melissa — OCD & Anxiety Recovery: Real Tools That Actually HelpAired 12/2/2025Lesson: Intrusive thoughts don’t mean you’re broken — they’re signals you can learn to respond to instead of fear. Virginia — Rising Inch by Inch: Hope, Healing, and Reclaiming Your LifeAired 12/4/2025Lesson: Healing doesn’t require giant leaps; consistent, small steps can rebuild an entire life. Michael — Trauma Without the Pain: The Cortina Method That’s Changing PTSD ForeverAired 12/9/2025Lesson: You don’t have to relive trauma to heal it — effective therapy can reduce pain without re-traumatization. Kelly — Traumatic Brain Injury, Neurofatigue, and the Fight to Feel ‘Normal’ AgainAired 12/11/2025Lesson: Invisible injuries are still real, and listening to your body early can change long-term outcomes. Jenn Robb — Supporting a Child Through Anxiety, Depression, and Suicidal ThoughtsAired 12/16/2025Lesson: Loving someone through a mental health crisis requires fierce advocacy — and caregivers need care too. Adriene Caldwell — Foster Care, Abuse, Suicide Survival, and the Power of HopeAired 12/18/2025Lesson: Even the hardest beginnings don’t define your ending — hope can be learned and reclaimed. Carrie — Mental Health, Trauma, and Healing Through CreativityAired 12/23/2025Lesson: Creativity can be a powerful form of therapy and a way to choose yourself after trauma. Talaya — Cancer, Medical Gaslighting, and Emotional HealingAired 12/30/2025Lesson: Self-advocacy matters — especially when systems fail — and boundaries are part of healing. Susanna Calvert — How to Build Emotional ResilienceAired 1/6/2026Lesson: Emotional resilience is a skill that can be taught, practiced, and strengthened at any age. Amy Koford — Hypnotherapy for Anxiety, Fear, Trauma, and Deep Emotional HealingAired 1/8/2026Lesson: Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all — alternative therapies can work when traditional approaches don’t. Alisa — Trauma Therapy, EMDR, and Healing Without Re-TraumatizationAired 1/13/2026Lesson: Healing can be gentle, intentional, and effective without reopening old wounds. Friendship Reflection As we looked back on Season 15, what stood out most wasn’t just the topics — it was how much we learned together. Every guest taught us something new, challenged how we think, or reminded us that humor, honesty, and connection matter just as much as therapy tools. This season reflected the way G-Rex and Dirty Skittles have grown alongside the show — using laughter to cope, learning from other people’s pain, and supporting each other through real life in real time. Season 15 reinforced that healing doesn’t happen in isolation, and friendship can be one of the strongest tools we have. Key Takeaways Healing isn’t linear — progress still counts. Humor can be a coping tool, not an avoidance tactic. Friendship and connection matter in recovery. Advoc

Trigger Notice This episode includes discussions of trauma and past suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised.If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S., or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources. What if healing trauma didn’t require reliving every painful detail? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with trauma therapist Alisa Gracheva to discuss EMDR, self-awareness, and how real healing occurs without retraumatization. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to relive the pain to heal it — you just have to feel safe enough to let it go.”— Alisa Gracheva Episode Description Trauma healing doesn’t have to mean reopening every wound — and in this deeply grounding episode, Alisa Gracheva explains why. Joining G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Alisa shares her journey from surviving early trauma and immigration upheaval to becoming a licensed trauma therapist specializing in EMDR and nervous-system–informed care. Together, they unpack one of the biggest myths about trauma therapy: that you have to relive every painful detail to heal. Alisa explains how trauma lives in the body, not just the mind, and why safety, pacing, and self-awareness matter more than storytelling alone. The conversation weaves through personal healing, therapy, “speed dating,” seasonal depression, grounding practices, and the reality of holding space for others without losing yourself. Alisa also shares the hardest lessons she’s faced — including financial loss, burnout, and learning to ask for help — while offering listeners a compassionate framework for change: self-awareness, willingness, and readiness. From boundaries and daily rituals to art, nature, and spirituality, this episode is a reminder that healing is not a destination — it’s a relationship with yourself. If you’ve ever felt broken by trauma, exhausted by therapy that didn’t fit, or afraid that healing would hurt more than staying the same, this conversation offers hope, clarity, and permission to do it differently. Keywords: Alisa Gracheva, trauma therapy, EMDR, healing trauma, nervous system regulation, mental health podcast, PTSD recovery, self-awareness, grounding techniques, therapy without retraumatization, spiritual healing, emotional wellness Meet Our Guest — Alisa Gracheva Alisa Gracheva is a licensed trauma therapist, EMDR practitioner, and author dedicated to helping people heal without re-traumatization. Blending evidence-based trauma therapy with spiritual awareness, Alisa supports clients in reconnecting with safety, self-trust, and wholeness after trauma. Website: https://since.life/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisa_art/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-gracheva-61081670/Book: Walking with Spirit: A Sacred Path to Wholeness Key Takeaways You don’t have to relive trauma in detail to heal it. Trauma lives in the body — healing must involve the nervous system. Finding the right therapist matters more than sticking with the first one. Self-awareness is the first step toward real change. Boundaries are essential for helpers, healers, and caregivers. Healing is a lifelong relationship, not a finish line. Actionable Items If therapy hasn’t worked before, give yourself permission to try a different approach. Add one grounding practice to your day (stretching, nature, breathwork, or art). Ask yourself: “What would safety feel like right now?” — and honor that answer. References Mentioned EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy Man’s Search for Meaning — Viktor Frankl The Myth of Normal — Dr. Gabor Maté 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:02 – Alisa’s journey into trauma therapy 07:30 – Why reliving trauma isn’t required for healing 12:00 – EMDR and trauma stored in the body 19:00 – Self-awareness, readiness, and willingness to change 28:00 – Grounding, nature, and nervous system regulation 38:00 – Boundaries, burnout, and caregiver self-care 45:00 – Advice to her younger self and hardest life lessons Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaHealing #EMDRTherapy #NervousSystemHealing #PTSDRecovery#TherapyWorks #EmotionalWellness #SpiritualHealing #GroundingPractices#Sel

Trigger Notice This episode includes discussions of anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is in crisis, you are not alone. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For international resources, visit https://findahelpline.com. What if anxiety wasn’t your enemy—just old programming that needs an update? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Amy Koford, also known as The Happy Hypnotist, to talk about fear, trauma, and how hypnotherapy can help rewire the subconscious mind for lasting emotional healing. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to believe every thought you have—especially the ones rooted in fear.” — Amy Koford Episode Description Anxiety has a way of convincing us that control equals safety—but what if letting go is where healing actually begins? In this eye-opening episode, Amy Koford, bestselling author, clinical hypnotist, and motivational speaker, joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to break down how hypnotherapy helps people release fear, process trauma, and find real emotional peace. Amy shares her personal journey through depression, postpartum struggles, and life-threatening illness—experiences that shaped her mission to help others heal faster and deeper than traditional talk therapy alone. Together, the trio explores why anxiety often becomes a “security blanket,” how subconscious beliefs shape emotional reactions, and why so many people struggle to quiet their minds at night. This conversation dives into how hypnotherapy works with the subconscious mind to reframe trauma, release stored emotional responses, and replace fear with calm, confidence, and clarity. Amy also explains why sleep improves, anxiety eases, and emotional healing accelerates when the nervous system finally feels safe. If you’ve tried therapy, medication, or coping strategies and still feel stuck, this episode offers a hopeful, practical alternative. It’s a reminder that you’re not broken—you’re responding exactly how a nervous system learns to survive. Sometimes healing doesn’t come from pushing harder. It comes from reprogramming what’s been running quietly in the background all along. SEO Keywords: Amy Koford, hypnotherapy for anxiety, trauma healing, fear and anxiety, subconscious mind, emotional healing, mental health podcast, anxiety relief, hypnosis therapy, healing trauma, sleep anxiety, mindset reprogramming Meet Our Guest — Amy Koford Amy Koford, known as The Happy Hypnotist, is a bestselling author, clinical hypnotist, motivational speaker, and CEO of Amy Koford. With thousands of one-on-one hypnotherapy sessions completed, Amy helps people overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, fear, insomnia, and self-doubt by reprogramming the subconscious mind. Her mission is to create a world where love wins over fear. Connect with Amy: Website: https://www.amykoford.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amythehappyhypnotist/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.koford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-koford-012637184/ Key Takeaways Anxiety is often learned, which means it can be unlearned. Fear is not protection—it is outdated programming. Hypnotherapy works by addressing subconscious patterns, not just surface thoughts. You do not need to remember trauma for healing to occur. Letting go of control can be the most empowering step toward peace. Actionable Items When anxiety hits, ask yourself: What thought am I believing right now? Practice allowing calm instead of fighting fear; resistance fuels anxiety. Explore alternative healing modalities like hypnotherapy alongside therapy. References Mentioned Hardwired to Rise – Live Fearlessly, Prosperously, and Optimally by Amy Koford 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources: https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:06 – Amy’s journey into hypnotherapy and why traditional therapy wasn’t enough 00:12 – Why control fuels anxiety and how to release it 00:20 – Subconscious vs. conscious mind explained simply 00:29 – Trauma storage, memory blocking, and emotional release 00:37 – Why hypnotherapy improves sleep and calms the nervous system 00:45 – Fear as a “security blanket” and how to let it go 00:52 – Amy’s mission: creating a world where love beats fear Subscribe, Rate, and Review Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHea

Trigger Notice This episode includes discussion of trauma, mental health challenges, and suicide statistics. If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For global resources, visit: https://findahelpline.com What better way to kick off 2026 than with a conversation about emotional resilience? In the very first episode of the new year, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Susanna Calvert to talk about healing trauma, reclaiming personal power, and learning the skills most of us were never taught — but desperately need. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Resilience isn’t about being tough or pushing through — it’s about learning how to come home to yourself after life knocks you down.” — Susanna Calvert Episode Description As the first episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads for 2026, this conversation sets the tone for the year ahead — honest, hopeful, and rooted in real tools for mental health. Resilience is often treated like a personality trait — something you either have or you don’t. But Susanna Calvert is here to dismantle that myth and show why emotional resilience is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened at any stage of life. In this deeply thoughtful episode, Susanna joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how her own experiences with generational trauma, spiritual awakening, and repeated “dark nights of the soul” led her to create the Foundation for Family and Community Healing. Drawing from decades in higher education and well-being research, she explains why grit and “toughing it out” aren’t enough — and how unhealed trauma quietly shapes families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities. The conversation explores why emotional education should be as foundational as reading or math, how kids and adults alike benefit from learning resilience together, and why community-wide healing is the missing piece in today’s mental health crisis. Susanna also introduces the concept of the Hero’s — or “Shiro’s” — Journey, offering a powerful framework for turning crisis into growth and hopelessness into meaning. This episode is a reminder that healing isn’t about fixing what’s broken — it’s about reclaiming your power, learning new skills, and choosing to grow even when life feels overwhelming. If you’re looking for a grounded, hopeful way to start 2026, this conversation is it. Keywords: emotional resilience, mental health healing, trauma recovery, generational trauma, resilience skills, emotional wellness, community healing, childhood trauma, mental health education, personal growth, coping skills, self-healing Meet Our Guest — Susanna Calvert Dr. Susanna (Sanna) Wu-Pong Calvert, MAPP, PhD is the Founder and Executive Director of the Foundation for Family and Community Healing, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching emotional resilience and well-being as learnable life skills. She is also the Founder of Sanctuary of Earth and the Community Director at MentalHealth.com, blending science, education, and spiritual growth to support healing for individuals and communities worldwide. Connect with Susanna: Website: http://www.HealingEdu.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familyandcommunityhealing/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FamilyandCommunityHealing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanna-wu-pong-calvert-551b616/ Key Takeaways Emotional resilience is a skill — not a personality trait. Unhealed trauma often gets passed down quietly through generations. Grit alone doesn’t heal; awareness and skill-building do. Kids and adults learn resilience best when communities heal together. A crisis can become a doorway to growth when we’re given the right tools. Actionable Items Notice where you’re “pushing through” instead of checking in with yourself. Practice naming your emotions without judgment — awareness builds resilience. Seek out skill-based mental health resources, not just motivation or inspiration. References Mentioned Foundation for Family and Community Healing — http://www.HealingEdu.org 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:01 – Why resilience must be taught, not assumed 06:40 – Generational trauma and the limits of “being tough” 14:30 – Why schools and workplaces miss emotional education 23:45 – The Hero’s (Shiro’s) Journey as a healing roadmap 31:10 – Social media, overwhelm, and reclaiming personal power 37:45 – Hope, healing, and building a better future together Subscribe, Rate, and Review! As we step i

What happens when your body knows something is wrong, but the system refuses to listen? In this robust conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with cancer thriver and advocate Talaya Dendy to talk about medical gaslighting, emotional survival, and what it takes to fight for your life, literally and emotionally. This is our final episode of 2025, and we are closing the year with a reminder that you deserve to be heard. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Those gaps in the system are the problem, you’re not.” — Talaya Dendy Episode Description Being told “it’s probably nothing” nearly cost Talaya Dendy her life. In this candid, emotionally grounded episode, Talaya joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share what it was like to be dismissed by a doctor, diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma a year later, and then left alone with the news on a Friday afternoon. What followed was not only a fight against cancer, but a battle against medical gaslighting, isolation, and a healthcare system that too often forgets the person behind the chart. Talaya opens up about navigating cancer in her early 30s, enduring months of chemotherapy and radiation, and managing the stress of a new workplace while trying to protect her insurance and privacy. She also shares the heartbreak of learning who shows up and who disappears when your life is upended, and how boundaries become survival tools, not “nice-to-haves.” Along the way, Talaya explains how journaling, mindset work, faith, and self-advocacy helped her stay grounded when support systems fell short. That lived experience ultimately became her purpose: serving others as a cancer doula and board-certified patient advocate, helping people ask better questions, get better care, and feel less alone. As we close out our last show of 2025, this episode is a powerful reminder as we enter the new year: you are not a burden, you are not “too much,” and you have every right to demand care that is competent and compassionate. Keywords: Talaya Dendy, cancer thriver, medical gaslighting, emotional healing, cancer trauma, self-advocacy, patient advocacy, cancer support, mental health podcast, emotional wellness, boundaries, healthcare trauma, survivorship, healing journey Meet Our Guest — Talaya Dendy Talaya Dendy is a cancer thriver, Cancer Doula, Board-Certified Patient Advocate, Health & Wellness Coach, and host of the Navigating Cancer TOGETHER podcast. After surviving Hodgkin’s lymphoma, she dedicated her work to filling the emotional and advocacy gaps in cancer care. Hence, patients and families feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout the journey. Website: https://www.ontheotherside.life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ontheotherside17/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/NCTpodcastfan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talayadendy/ Key Takeaways Medical gaslighting is real, and trusting your body can save your life. You have the right to ask questions, seek second opinions, and walk away. Cancer impacts mental health just as much as it affects the body. Not everyone will show up, and that clarity can change your life. Advocacy is a skill that can be learned, even in survival mode. Actionable Items Write down symptoms and concerns before appointments, and bring them with you. Practice one boundary this week that protects your health or energy. Ask yourself: “Do I feel heard here?” If not, consider another provider or a second opinion. References Mentioned Journaling as a therapeutic practice Patient self-advocacy in healthcare Important Chapters 00:01 — Talaya’s lump is dismissed, and the path to diagnosis begins 05:00 — Getting the diagnosis by phone and feeling abandoned 12:30 — Learning self-advocacy and reframing “doctor knows best.” 18:00 — Isolation in treatment spaces and rejecting negativity 27:30 — Work, disability leave, insurance stress, and lack of empathy 39:00 — Leaving corporate and becoming a cancer doula and advocate 45:40 — Advice to her younger self and reclaiming worth 50:45 — Favorite word: Thriver; least favorite word: Authenticity Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review. Thank you for being part of our 2025. This is our last episode of the year, and we will be back with a new episode on 1/6/26. Leave a review or visit: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CancerThriver #MedicalGaslighting #CancerSupport #PatientAdvocacy #EmotionalHealing #HealthcareTrauma #HealingJourney #CancerSurvivorship #BoundariesMatter #AdvocateForYourself #LifeAfterCancer **************************

What if the thing that saved your mental health wasn’t therapy alone—but your hands, your creativity, and your ability to choose differently? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Carrie to discuss trauma, abandonment, people-pleasing, and how creativity became her lifeline amid chaos. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Listener Feedback We would love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You can visit devastation, but you can’t live there.” — Carrie Episode Description Carrie’s mental health journey didn’t begin in adulthood—it started in childhood, shaped by sudden moves, family instability, abandonment, and the quiet expectation to “be okay” no matter what. In this deeply honest episode, Carrie joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how creativity became her survival tool when life felt completely out of control. From waking up to moving trucks without warning to becoming a parentified child at twelve, Carrie learned early how chaos can wire the nervous system. Rather than numbing out or self-destructing in obvious ways, she chose a more socially accepted—but equally damaging—path: people-pleasing, over-functioning, and carrying everyone else’s emotional weight. Through art, crafting, and intentional use of her hands, Carrie discovered a way to temporarily shut off trauma, regulate her nervous system, and reclaim a sense of power. This episode explores how creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s a form of mental health care. Carrie also opens up about breaking generational trauma, setting boundaries with family, redefining self-care, and teaching her children emotional agency instead of emotional suppression. This conversation is raw, validating, and deeply human. If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety, trauma, abandonment wounds, or the pressure to be “the strong one,” this episode will remind you that healing doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be intentional. Keywords: Carrie, mental health, trauma healing, creativity and mental health, childhood trauma, abandonment issues, people-pleasing, anxiety coping skills, generational trauma, boundaries, self-care, emotional regulation, creative healing Meet Our Guest Carrie is a creative mother and lifelong advocate for using hands-on creativity to support mental health and emotional regulation. Shaped by childhood trauma, family instability, and abandonment, she learned to transform chaos into meaning through art, crafting, and intentional self-reflection. Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is often built—not found. Key Takeaways Creativity can regulate the nervous system and quiet trauma responses. People-pleasing is a socially accepted form of self-abandonment. You can choose healing—even if you have to choose it daily. Boundaries protect mental health, even when they disappoint others. Trauma doesn’t disappear, but it can lose control over your life. Actionable Items Find a “busy hands” activity that helps calm your mind (drawing, knitting, baking, crafting). Give yourself permission to feel devastation—then set a limit on how long you stay there. Ask yourself daily: Am I choosing myself or abandoning myself? References Mentioned Between Two Worlds (book on the impact of divorce on children) Important Chapters 00:04:20 – Waking up to a moving truck and the roots of abandonment 00:10:30 – How creativity helps turn off trauma 00:17:10 – People-pleasing as a hidden destructive coping skill 00:18:30 – “You can visit devastation, but you can’t live there.” 00:23:40 – Breaking generational trauma and setting boundaries 00:36:40 – Advice Carrie would give her younger self 00:38:10 – Self-love, anger, and permission to take up space Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #TraumaHealing #CreativeHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #AnxietySupport #PeoplePleasingRecovery #GenerationalTrauma #BoundariesMatter #EmotionalWellbeing #SelfCareTools #HealingJourney #MentalHealthMatters ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you kno

This episode contains explicit discussion of severe trauma, including emotional and physical abuse, childhood sexual assault, foster care abuse, extreme poverty, mental illness, eating disorders, homelessness, death, and suicide attempts. Adriene herself urges listeners to proceed with caution. Please prioritize your well-being and pause or skip this episode if needed. If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available: United States and Canada: Call or text 988, Suicide and Crisis Lifeline International resources: https://findahelpline.com You matter. You are not alone. From foster care and extreme poverty to abuse, homelessness, and surviving suicide attempts, Adriene Caldwell has lived through more trauma than most people can imagine. In this raw, unfiltered, and deeply human conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Adriene, author of Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, to talk about what it means to survive when the odds are stacked against you, and how hope can still take root in the most unforgiving places. Adriene shares the reality of growing up in systems that failed her, the teachers who quite literally saved her life, and the truth behind the statistic that fewer than 3 percent of former foster youth ever attend college. This is not a story wrapped in platitudes or false positivity. It is honest, heavy, and courageous. It is about staying when leaving felt easier, and choosing to believe that life could be different, even when there was no proof. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Listener Feedback We would love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “I have done more than survive. I have thrived. Hope is the reason I am still here.” — Adriene Caldwell Episode Description Adriene Caldwell’s story is not easy to hear, but it is necessary. In this deeply honest conversation, Adriene joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share what it means to grow up in extreme poverty, endure horrific abuse, survive foster care, and attempt suicide, yet still choose to stay. From childhood trauma and an untreated mentally ill parent to homelessness and abusive foster placements, Adriene’s life was shaped by systems that failed her again and again. School became her refuge. Education became her way out. And hope, quiet, stubborn, and hard won, became her anchor. Adriene also opens up about the teachers who risked everything to protect her, the reality that fewer than 3 percent of foster youth ever attend college, and why emotional abuse can leave deeper scars than physical violence. She shares what finally led her to write her memoir, Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, and how revisiting her trauma forced healing she never expected. This episode is raw, heavy, and deeply human. It is also a reminder that your current chapter is not your final one. If you have ever felt trapped by your past or unsure whether staying is worth it, Adriene’s story offers proof that hope can survive even the cruelest circumstances. Meet Our Guest — Adriene Caldwell Adriene Caldwell is the author of Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, a memoir documenting her journey through foster care, extreme poverty, abuse, mental illness, and suicide survival. A former foster youth who defied overwhelming odds, Adriene uses her story to offer real, grounded hope that trauma can end and life can improve. Connect with Adriene: Website: https://www.unbrokencaldwell.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575765845419&sk=professional_dashboard X: https://www.twitter.com/@unbrokencaldwell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@unbrokencaldwell TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/unbrokencaldwel Key Takeaways Emotional abuse is real abuse, and its impact can last for decades. Foster care outcomes are not predetermined, but the odds are unfairly stacked against them. Education can be a lifeline when everything else feels unsafe. Survival does not mean you are broken. It means you adapted. Hope does not erase trauma, but it helps you outlive it. Actionable Items If you feel overwhelmed, choose one small decision today that supports your future self. Learn your local and national crisis resources before you need them. If it feels safe, write your story, even if no one else ever reads it. References Mentioned Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines by Adr

Trigger Notice This episode contains discussions of child mental health, self-harm, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, and mental health crises involving minors. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone.In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.If you’re outside the U.S., visit https://findahelpline.com to find resources in your country. When Jenn Robb’s daughter was just 12 years old, subtle changes turned into terrifying realities—crippling anxiety, depression, self-harm, and a moment that nearly took her child’s life. What followed wasn’t a clean, linear healing journey, but a relentless fight fueled by intuition, love, and a mother’s refusal to give up. In this raw and deeply human episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jenn to talk about what it truly means to parent through a child’s mental health crisis—and how survival sometimes comes before understanding. Kicking off this robust conversation, Jenn discusses the warning signs many parents miss, the unbearable tension between protecting your child and not pushing them away, and the hard decisions no parent ever expects to make. From navigating therapy and medication to learning when to speak—and when to remain silent—this episode offers honesty, clarity, and hope for parents walking similar paths. If you’ve ever felt afraid, overwhelmed, or unsure how to help your child without losing yourself, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback Link We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You’re allowed to feel what you feel—but you don’t get to stay stuck there.”— Jenn Robb Episode Description What do you do when your child is hurting—and won’t tell you why? For Jenn Robb, nurse practitioner, author, and Warrior Mom coach, that question became her reality when her daughter began struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-harm at just 12 years old. In this profoundly moving episode, Jenn joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share what it looks like to fight for your child’s life while learning how to respond instead of react. Jenn walks us through the warning signs parents often second-guess, the importance of trusting your intuition, and why finding the right therapist can take time—and persistence. She speaks candidly about advocacy within the mental health system, pushing back against overmedication, and why “fixing it” isn’t always the goal. Sometimes, love looks like restraint. Sometimes, it’s a code word and a piece of cake instead of questions. This conversation also highlights the caregiver’s experience—the burnout, the guilt, the loss of identity, and the slow realization that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Jenn shares practical tools for parents in the trenches, reminders that perfection isn’t required, and proof that healing is possible—even after unimaginable fear. This episode is for parents, caregivers, and anyone who loves a child navigating mental health challenges. You are not failing. You are not alone. And you are stronger than you think. SEO Keywords: Jenn Robb, child mental health, parenting anxiety, childhood depression, suicidal thoughts in kids, self-harm awareness, parenting through crisis, caregiver burnout, mental health advocacy, therapy for teens, suicide prevention, Warrior Mom Meet Our Guest — Jenn Robb Jenn Robb is a nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in functional and integrative medicine, author of Warrior Mom Rising, and founder of Warrior Mom Coaching. Through faith, practical tools, and unapologetic honesty, Jenn helps moms move from burnout to clarity, confidence, and hope while advocating for their children’s mental health. Website: https://warriormomcoach.net/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriormom_jennrobbFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15ue2hq9PL/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-robb-msn-aprn-acnp-c-fim-p-fmp-c-346992106 Key Takeaways Trust your intuition—you often notice changes before your child can explain them. Advocacy sometimes means pushing back against “quick fixes.” The right therapist matters more than the first available one. Love doesn’t always look loud; sometimes it’s a quiet presence. Careg

After a car crash left her with a traumatic brain injury, Kelly spent months believing she was “fine” — until neurofatigue, memory lapses, and frightening moments behind the wheel told a different story. In this emotional and eye-opening episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Kelly to talk about the invisible aftermath of TBI, the terror of feeling unlike yourself, and the long, patient fight to find your way back. Kicking off this powerful conversation, Kelly shares how she hid her brain injury for years, what neurofatigue actually feels like, and how therapy, mindfulness, and sheer determination helped her rebuild a life she thought she had lost. If you’ve ever felt “not yourself,” overwhelmed, or misunderstood in your healing process, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and hope. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You’re not ‘crazy’ — your brain is hurt, and hurt things need care before they can function again.” — Kelly Tuttle Episode Description When Kelly’s car accident in 2015 left her concussed, she did what so many of us do — she tried to push through it. What she didn’t know was that she was living with a traumatic brain injury that would slowly dismantle her energy, her clarity, and her sense of self. Months later, after falling asleep at the wheel, mixing up words, and feeling wildly unlike herself, Kelly finally learned the truth: her brain was fighting for its life, and she needed help. In this powerful episode, Kelly joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about neurofatigue, the fear of feeling “broken,” and the devastating impact of invisible injuries. She shares how she hid her disability for years, the therapies that actually helped, and the moment she realized she needed to tell her story so other survivors wouldn’t feel alone. From martial arts to mindfulness, from toast-and-coffee mishaps to rebuilding her identity one baby step at a time, Kelly’s journey is a reminder that recovery isn’t linear — and it isn’t fast. But it is possible. Whether you’re healing from a brain injury, dealing with cognitive overwhelm, or trying to understand a loved one’s struggles, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and hope to a conversation that desperately needs it. Keywords: traumatic brain injury, neurofatigue, concussion recovery, brain health, TBI survivor, cognitive fatigue, mindfulness for healing, speech therapy, brain injury support, invisible disabilities, Kelly Tuttle, mental health recovery, neuro rehabilitation, post-concussion symptoms Meet Our Guest — Kelly Tuttle Kelly Tuttle is a neurology nurse practitioner, TBI survivor, and author dedicated to helping people navigate the hidden challenges of life after brain injury. Through her book After the Crash and her online community, she offers practical tools, hope, and validation to those struggling to return to work, school, and daily routines. Kelly also brings decades of martial arts experience, a wicked sense of humor, and a deep passion for brain-loving habits to her advocacy. Website: https://kellytuttle.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brain_np_/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-tuttle-72589810/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084306369863TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brainlovingnp Key Takeaways Neurofatigue is real, disabling, and often misunderstood — and it can shut the brain down without warning. You’re not “fine” just because you look functional; invisible injuries still deserve care. A brain injury can change your identity, but it can also uncover deeper compassion and clarity. Recovery takes years, not weeks — and every tiny step forward counts. You cannot heal alone. The right people, tools, and structure make a world of difference. Actionable Items Treat your energy like currency—budget it intentionally and stop before you run out. Use external supports like timers, journaling, and visual cues to reduce cognitive load. Advocate for yourself: accommodations aren’t a weakness; they’re a matter of survival and sustainability. References Mentioned After the Crash by Kelly Tuttle Neurotherapy and speech therapy for cognitive rehabilitation Behavioral optom

Kicking off this mind-blowing conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina, the creator of The Cortina Method. This groundbreaking, brain-based approach helps people heal trauma without reliving a single moment of pain. From frustration with outdated therapy models to developing a 90% effective trauma-healing process, Michael brings the kind of hope and clarity our hurting world desperately needs. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Hope is great — but real healing is when you leave with joy, energy, and relief.” — inspired by Michael Cortina Episode Description What if healing trauma didn’t have to hurt? What if you never had to relive a single painful memory again? In this powerful and eye-opening episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Michael Cortina, founder and creator of The Cortina Method — a brain-based methodology designed to resolve trauma, PTSD, and deeply rooted emotional pain without retraumatization. And yes… It’s as life-changing as it sounds. Michael shares how years of witnessing clients suffer through traditional therapy models — reliving trauma, crying through sessions, leaving drained instead of hopeful — pushed him to rethink everything we’ve been taught about healing. His frustration with old-school approaches and his belief that “there has to be a better way” led him to develop a method so effective that many people report complete symptom resolution in a single session. Together, the trio dives into why reliving trauma isn’t necessary, how the brain actually reprocesses pain, what “conscious ketchup” means, and why hope isn't the goal — true resolution is. Michael also opens up about the backlash he faced for challenging outdated mental health systems… and why he refuses to stop. If you’ve ever wished healing could be faster, gentler, or more empowering, this episode will expand your entire understanding of what’s possible. Real transformation doesn’t have to be torture — and Michael is here to prove it. Keywords: trauma resolution, PTSD healing, brain-based therapy, emotional healing, The Cortina Method, trauma recovery without reliving, subconscious reprocessing, mental health innovation, trauma treatment breakthrough, healing trauma gently, therapist burnout solutions, brain rewiring, limiting beliefs healing, emotional pain relief, sustainable trauma healing Meet Our Guest — Michael Cortina Michael Cortina is a Trauma Resolution Expert and the Founder, Creator, and CEO of The Cortina Method. This brain-based healing methodology resolves trauma and disturbing emotions without requiring people to revisit painful memories. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, Michael is a national keynote speaker, international PTSD authority, and leader in cutting-edge trauma intervention. His groundbreaking work on PTSD was published in Frontiers in Psychiatry in 2024. People worldwide seek Michael’s services and trainings, and his work has been featured across ABC, FOX, NBC, CBS, THE CW, and 400+ media outlets. Connect with Michael:Website: https://michaelcortina.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelcortinamethod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.cortina.184/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQIPdyf3qwC3rJck9fwBwgQLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-cortina-ptsd-expert/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mike_dancing_therapist?_r=1&_t=ZP-91wxIo0fV0g Key Takeaways Healing trauma does not require reliving trauma — and it can even feel energizing. The “mission of the organism” is to avoid pain, not bathe in it — and therapy should honor that. Resistance isn’t real; it’s the brain protecting you in the only way it knows. The Cortina Method aims for completion, not coping — resolution rather than lifelong symptoms. Practitioners deserve healing too; they shouldn’t leave sessions drained or traumatized. Healing is possible — not just theoretically, but measurably, joyfully, and sustainably. Actionable Items If past trauma still triggers you, explore modalities that don’t require retelling the story — your healing doesn’t have to hurt. Ask yourself: “Is t

Kicking off this conversation with a story that reminds us what real resilience looks like, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with the extraordinary Virginia Oman, licensed clinical mental health therapist, mindset coach, and living proof that transformation is possible inch by inch. From losing her mobility and her music to rebuilding her life through intuition, movement, nature, and radical hope, Virginia brings a deep, soul-level understanding of what it means to rise again. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheadsImportant Dates:• Voting ends December 25, 2025• Judging begins in January• Shortlist announced January 26• Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Hope isn’t a feeling — it’s a decision you make one inch at a time.” — inspired by Virginia Oman Episode Description When life pulls the rug out from under you, inch-by-inch progress can feel impossible — but for Virginia Oman, it became the blueprint that saved her life. In this powerful and deeply human episode, Virginia shares her journey from a wheelchair, chronic pain, and total hopelessness to becoming a licensed mental health therapist, mindset coach, positive psychology practitioner, and wellness master who helps others rebuild their lives with intention and joy. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles talk with Virginia about the moment a quiet inner voice told her, “Listen to what your body is telling you,” and how following that intuition — even when it contradicted medical advice — led her to design her own healing plan fueled by perseverance, movement, gratitude, and nature. She opens up about swimming inch by inch, trusting her instincts, and refusing to let outside forces define her future. Together, they explore the emotional exhaustion of hopelessness, the power of small wins, and why joy is something you intentionally create rather than stumble into. Virginia explains how she now guides clients through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions using holistic, mind-body practices rooted in freedom, joy, and self-trust. This episode is a reminder that healing isn’t linear — it’s a choice, a practice, and an act of courage. If you’ve ever felt stuck, defeated, or like your life has shrunk around you, Virginia’s story is the spark you’ve been waiting for. Keywords: mindset coach, trauma recovery, emotional healing, chronic illness resilience, hope after despair, mind-body wellness, positive psychology, gratitude practice, anxiety tools, depression support, nature healing, movement therapy, rebuilding your life, personal transformation, resilience stories Meet Our Guest — Virginia Oman Virginia Oman, LCMHC, NCPT, is a licensed clinical mental health therapist, mindset coach, personal trainer, and wellness master who helps people move from despair to joy-filled living. After rebuilding her own life from the depths of hopelessness and physical collapse, Virginia now guides clients through holistic mind-body practices that foster resilience, freedom, and fulfillment. Connect with Virginia:Website: https://virginiaoman.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/virginiaomanofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virginiaomanofficial/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSfzfJKG2YGi3FRB_TYeMigLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/virginia-oman/ Key Takeaways Healing starts with one decision: don’t give up on yourself — even when progress is microscopic. Your body holds wisdom your mind may not yet be ready to hear. Learn to listen. Joy is intentional. You create it through movement, gratitude, and connection with nature. Medical advice matters, but only you get to be the captain of your life. Laughter, friendship, and community are powerful forms of medicine. Trauma and darkness don’t erase your future — they prepare you for it. Actionable Items Try Virginia’s “triple shot”: gratitude + movement + nature to shift your state fast. Identify one area where you’re letting outside voices overrule your intuition — and reclaim it. Take one tiny, inch-by-inch step toward something your future self will thank you for. References Mentioned 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.orgVirginia Oman’s Website — https://virginiaoman.com Important Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + Virginia’s introduction 00:04:00 – Losing hope and hearing the voice that changed everything 00:06:00 – Swimmi

Kicking off Season 15 with a conversation that hits straight at the heart of what so many people silently struggle with, Dr. Melissa Dufrene joins us to unpack the mental noise, overwhelm, and emotional exhaustion that OCD and anxiety can create — and what becomes possible when someone finally gets the right support. From the battles people fight behind closed doors to the quiet courage it takes to challenge fear rather than accommodate it, this opening episode sets the tone for a season rooted in honesty, healing, and hope. In this deeply human conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Melissa — board-certified clinical psychologist and co-owner of Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety — to explore recovery, resilience, and the real work of reclaiming your life. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a We have been nominated for Best Mental Health Podcast We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote has real impact. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads​ Important Dates:​ • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your love and support have carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Mental Health Quote “You don’t rise by avoiding fear — you rise by walking with it.” — inspired by Dr. Melissa Dufrene Episode Description When the world shut down in 2020, anxiety didn’t shrink — it intensified. Clinicians were overwhelmed, families were struggling, and people with OCD suddenly found themselves trapped in a nightmare of uncertainty and isolation. In this powerful Season 15 opener, Dr. Melissa Dufrene joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to pull back the curtain on what OCD and anxiety actually feel like from the inside — and why healing is absolutely possible with the right tools. Melissa shares how she and her business partner launched Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety during the pandemic, driven by the urgent need for specialized care. She explains why accommodating anxiety might feel comforting in the moment but can create long-term hardship — especially for kids who slowly retreat into smaller, safer worlds without realizing what they’re losing. Together, they explore the emotional exhaustion that comes with living in a noisy, fear-driven mind, the power of being truly heard, and why sometimes the most healing phrase in the world is, “Yeah… that sucks.” G-Rex shares her experience helping a stranger through a grounding exercise in a crowded conference hall. At the same time, Melissa offers practical, research-backed strategies rooted in exposure therapy, values-based action, and learning to let fear exist without feeding it. This episode is heartfelt, hopeful, and packed with real-talk reminders that anxiety isn’t weakness — it’s a signal. And when people get the right support, they rise higher than they ever imagined. Keywords: OCD recovery, anxiety tools, exposure therapy, intrusive thoughts help, cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP therapy, mental health support, emotional resilience, anxiety recovery tips, social anxiety, mental wellness, OCD specialist, pandemic mental health, fear response, coping skills, Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety Meet Our Guest — Dr. Melissa Dufrene Dr. Melissa Dufrene, PsyD, ABPP, is a board-certified clinical psychologist and the co-owner of Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety, where she specializes in evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders, and related conditions. Trained at Rogers Memorial Hospital, one of the nation’s top OCD programs, Melissa blends clinical expertise with compassion, clarity, cultural humility, and humor. She is devoted to increasing access to high-quality OCD and anxiety treatment, training clinicians, and empowering clients to stop avoiding life and step toward the things they value most. When she’s not working with clients, Melissa can be found chasing after her two boys, enjoying New Orleans food and festivals, diving into music with her husband, or daydreaming about her next scuba trip. Connect with Melissa:Website: https://riseocdandanxiety.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseocdandanxietyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/riseocdandanxietyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/riseocdandanxiety/ Key Takeaways Anxiety doesn’t mean you’re broken — it means you’ve been carrying too much alone. Accommodating anxiety feels good short-term, but becomes restrictive long-term. OCD recovery requires willingness, courage, and letting discomfort exist without

We made it — Season 14 is officially in the books! In this special season-ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down to reflect on the incredible humans who opened their hearts, shared their truths, and reminded us that healing is anything but linear. This season was all about joy, boundaries, and the beautifully messy middle — the place where real growth happens. Together we laughed, cried, fangirled, and found purpose in the hard sh!t life throws our way. And that’s what makes Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads: real talk, real stories, no shame, no judgment. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a We have been nominated for Best Mental Health Podcast We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote has real impact. Vote here:https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads​ Important Dates: Voting ends December 25, 2025 Judging begins in January Shortlist announced January 26 Winners revealed February 28 Your love and support have carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Mental Health Quote “Healing isn’t a straight line — sometimes the messiest moments are where you rediscover yourself.” Episode Description This isn’t your average episode — it’s our Season 14 Ender, and damn, what a season it was. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles kick back to reflect on the stories, breakthroughs, laughter, chaos, and deeply human moments that made this year unforgettable. From the absolute holy sht* excitement of interviewing Mayim Bialik, to Joe’s powerful return-to-his-roots story of helping kids through trauma… from Diane’s fearless humor and resilience while navigating chronic pain, to B-Side’s raw honesty about MS, identity, and finding your worth… every guest brought something real, tender, and necessary. We revisit Tabitha’s bravery as a listener-turned-guest sharing her healing journey, Jewel’s heartwarming conversation about friendship and belonging (yes, the one that made G-Rex cry), Brenda’s blend of spooky-season fun and anxiety awareness, Melissa’s courage during her “ER wakeup calls,” Arlene’s reminder to chase joy over titles, Heather’s laughter-packed conversation about womanhood and menopause, Dr. Pete’s sports-psychology wisdom, and Angie’s story of shame, survival, and rebuilding from the inside out. Season 14 was a beautiful mix of grit and grace — a reminder that healing isn’t linear, that boundaries matter, that joy is essential, and that connection keeps us going. Whether you’ve been here since Episode 1 or you joined us this year, this season finale is your invitation to honor your own messy middle. SEO Keywords: mental health stories, healing journey, women’s mental health, trauma recovery, friendship and belonging, anxiety tools, MS journey, chronic illness, boundaries, joy, resilience, emotional wellness, coping skills, community healing, podcast for mental health Meet Our Guests — Season 14 Lineup Mayim Bialik — Actor, neuroscientist, podcaster, and mental health advocate, reminding us that even people we idolize struggle. Joe — Survivor-turned-mentor helping kids through trauma with compassion and presence. Diane — A hilarious, resilient soul living with rheumatoid arthritis and choosing joy daily. B-Side (Robert) — Musician navigating life and purpose after MS changed everything. Tabitha — A Listener who became part of the story, sharing her truth and healing with courage. Jewel — Friend, connector, and reminder that belonging is a lifeline. Brenda Ganske — Host of Horrifying History, blending spooky stories with real talk on anxiety and OCD. Melissa — Creator of Embracing Layers, teaching us to stop abandoning ourselves. Arlene — Former attorney turned coach, helping people rediscover joy beyond burnout. Heather — A vibrant, hilarious voice speaking honestly about womanhood and perimenopause. Dr. Pete — Sports psychologist advocating for mental strength on and off the field. Angie — Survivor who turned shame into purpose and built a community out of pain. Key Takeaways Healing isn’t linear — joy, pain, and growth coexist. Boundaries aren’t selfish; they’re protection for your peace. Everyone has a messy middle, even people who seem confident or accomplished. Laughter and connection make the hard stuff survivable. Community is medicine — and this one keeps getting stronger. Actionable Items Check in with yourself weekly: Where do I need more joy? Where do I need more boundaries? When anxiety hits, try grounding — 5-4-3-2-1, breathing rituals, or a quick emotional inventory. Practice reaching out — one text, one call

Trigger Notice This episode contains discussion of suicide, a suicide attempt, trauma, and themes of hopelessness. Please take care of yourself while listening.If you are in the United States or Canada and need immediate support, you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.For listeners outside these regions, visit https://findahelpline.com for global crisis resources. From childhood wounds and people-pleasing to moving across the ocean in search of happiness, Angie Hawkins has lived a thousand emotional lifetimes. In this raw and deeply human conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Angie — Inner Glow Coach and author of Running in Slippers — to discuss self-worth, emotional survival, and the courage to be seen after years of hiding behind a smile. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Hopelessness is dangerous — one tiny thread of belief can be the thing that keeps you alive.” — inspired by Angie Hawkins. Episode Description When Angie Hawkins hit emotional rock bottom in 2020, she truly believed she had no reason left to stay alive. After a lifetime of people-pleasing, chasing external validation, and struggling to feel lovable, she reached a moment of sheer hopelessness that led to a suicide attempt — one she openly and bravely discusses in this episode. In this candid conversation, Angie joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how that moment became the turning point that changed everything. She talks about what it was like growing up in a home with emotionally unavailable parents, the patterns she carried into adulthood, and why moving to Hawaii didn’t magically fix the internal pain she was running from. Instead, it was the moment a friend said, “It’s not your time,” that sparked her decision to rebuild her life from the inside out. Together, they explore how boundaries, intuition, and true emotional regulation became her foundation for healing. Angie opens up about working with a coach who helped her relearn how to respect herself, what it means to become a “functional adult” after years of survival-mode living, and how sharing her story (including in her memoir Running in Slippers) has become part of her purpose. This episode is raw, hopeful, and packed with real-talk reminders that you are not alone — and that the most painful chapters of your life can become the ones that help someone else feel seen. Keywords: Angie Hawkins, suicide attempt survivor, emotional healing, boundaries, intuition, trauma recovery, people-pleasing, self-worth, emotional regulation, women’s mental health, resilience, healing journey, Hawaii, Running in Slippers, Inner Glow Coach, mental health awareness, hopelessness, purpose Meet Our Guest — Angie Hawkins Angie Hawkins is an Inner Glow Coach, author, and powerful voice in women’s emotional healing. She specializes in helping high-achieving women who have lost themselves in people-pleasing, perfectionism, and chronic self-doubt reconnect with their self-worth and build unshakable confidence from the inside out. Her work centers on two core pillars — boundaries and intuition — the very tools that helped her rebuild her own life after years of emotional suppression and a near-fatal suicide attempt. Angie is the author of Running in Slippers, a raw and vulnerable memoir that chronicles her journey through grief, heartbreak, island upheaval, and her eventual emotional resurrection. Her story cuts through the noise and gets straight to the truth: survival is messy, healing is nonlinear, and self-love is a skill you can learn no matter how far you feel you've fallen. Despite jumping out of helicopters, skydiving, bungee jumping, and cliff diving, Angie’s bravest act has been choosing to be seen — sharing her story openly so others don’t feel alone in theirs. She now blends life experience, emotional literacy, and compassionate coaching to help women stop performing for approval and finally feel worthy just as they are. Connect with Angie:Website: http://www.runninginslippers.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/angiehawkins808/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angie.hawkins.50/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiehawkins1/ Key Takeaways Hopelessness can be deadly — even one small spark of belief can interrupt it. Boundaries are an act of self-respect, not selfishness. External validation can’t fix internal wounds. Healing requires being honest with yourself, not just everyone else. You don’t have to hit rock bottom to get help — but if you do, your story isn’t over. Sharing your truth removes shame and creates connection. Actionable Items If you’re feeling

From bartending and modeling in New York City to becoming a Zen psychologist working with elite athletes, Dr. Pete Economou’s story is all about transformation, discipline, and radical self-awareness. In this honest and often hilarious conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Pete to discuss healing from the inside out, breaking the stigma around men’s mental health, and finding peace in a world that never stops moving. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Whatever you’re in right now — it will pass. Everything moves. Everything changes.” — Dr. Pete Economou Episode Description Dr. Pete Economou has lived a few lifetimes in one. From swimming at Olympic trials to tending bar at one of New York City’s most exclusive nightclubs, his journey eventually led him to the one place he never expected to land—inside his own mind. Now a Zen teacher, sport psychologist, and professor, Dr. Pete brings a rare blend of science, spirituality, and straight talk to the world of mental health. In this powerful and refreshingly real conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles dive deep into how Dr. Pete bridges East and West, blending Buddhist philosophy with cognitive behavioral therapy to help people heal from burnout, anxiety, and perfectionism. He shares how working on the sidelines with elite athletes has taught him that mental health struggles don’t discriminate—everybody, no matter how successful, has their own internal battles. Together, they unpack the power of boundaries, why vulnerability is a form of strength, and how the “middle path” can transform our approach to healing. Dr. Pete also opens up about his long-term meditation practice, his work mentoring future psychologists at Rutgers University, and how moderation—not extremes—is the foundation of sustainable wellness. This episode is part pep talk, part mindfulness lesson, and part wake-up call for anyone who’s ever tried to “fix” themselves into wellness. Whether you’re a high performer, an athlete, or someone simply trying to stay grounded in a chaotic world, Dr. Pete’s insight reminds us that healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Keywords: Dr. Pete Economou, mindfulness, Zen psychology, men’s mental health, sports psychology, emotional wellness, athlete mindset, healing journey, meditation, CBT, stress management, boundaries, resilience, self-care, psychology, mind-body connection, wellness Meet Our Guest — Dr. Pete Economou Dr. Peter J. Economou, Ph.D., ABPP, is a Board-Certified Cognitive Behavioral Psychologist, Zen teacher, author, and professor at Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, where he directs the Master of Applied Psychology program. As a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC), he has spent over 15 years working with professional and collegiate athletes to integrate mindfulness, performance optimization, and mental wellness. Dr. Pete’s background uniquely bridges science and spirituality. With advanced training in neuropsychology and sport psychology, and formal Zen training under the White Plum lineage, he combines modern therapy with ancient wisdom. His work focuses on helping people cultivate awareness, compassion, and emotional regulation in their daily lives. He is the author of Mindfulness Workbook for Beginners and Meditation Journal for Anxiety, co-host of the podcast When East Meets West, and an active advocate for mental health normalization across industries—from locker rooms to boardrooms. Connect with Dr. Pete: Website: https://officialdrpete.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialdrpete/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peterjeconomou X (Twitter): https://x.com/officialdrpete LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-j-economou-4b4000a/ Key Takeaways Mental health isn’t weakness—it’s part of being human. Healing begins when we stop overcomplicating and start listening to ourselves. Mindfulness is about moderation, not perfection. Boundaries protect both peace and purpose. Vulnerability, especially for men, is a sign of strength. Everything in life moves—nothing stays stuck forever. Actionable Items Set healthy tech boundaries: keep your phone out of the bedroom and shut it off at a consistent time each night. Try a mindfulness practice that fits your life, not someone else’s—whether it’s breathwork, meditation, or movement. When stress spikes, remind yourself: this moment will pass; everything changes. References Mentioned Mindfulness Workbook for Beginners — by Dr. Pete Economou Meditation Journal for Anxiety — by Dr. Pete Economou When East Meets West Podcas

When PMDD, shame, and self-silencing took over, Heather Hendrie discovered that laughter could be its own kind of medicine. In this raw and real conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Heather — bestselling author and nature-based therapist — to talk about using humor, wilderness, and truth-telling to heal from the inside out. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark honest, unfiltered conversations about mental health. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “When we laugh at what once shamed us, we take our power back.” — Heather Hendrie Episode Description PMDD has a way of turning everyday life into emotional chaos — but what if laughter, honesty, and nature could help calm the storm? In this deeply human episode, Heather Hendrie, bestselling author of the awfully hilarious series and founder of True Nature Wilderness Therapy, joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about what happens when mental health meets humor and wild places. Heather opens up about her own battles with PMDD and the shame so many women carry around their bodies, moods, and “messy” moments. Through her candid storytelling and nature-based counseling work, she’s made it her mission to remind us that we’re never as alone — or as broken — as we think. The conversation is equal parts emotional and hilarious as they explore what it means to heal without hiding, find peace in imperfection, and use humor as both a coping tool and a connector. From therapy sessions in the woods to writing about awkwardly human moments, Heather proves that healing doesn’t have to look polished — it just has to be honest. This episode is a love letter to everyone navigating PMDD, burnout, or emotional exhaustion, showing that humor and self-compassion aren’t distractions from healing — they’re essential parts of it. Keywords: Heather Hendrie, PMDD, humor and healing, nature-based therapy, mental health awareness, women’s wellness, shame resilience, storytelling, emotional health, wilderness therapy, self-acceptance, empowerment, laughter therapy, destigmatizing mental health Meet Our Guest — Heather Hendrie Heather Hendrie is an Amazon #1 bestselling author, counsellor, and creator of Awfully Hilarious: Stories We Never Tell. Based in Whistler, British Columbia, she runs True Nature Wilderness Therapy, helping people reconnect with themselves through nature-based healing. Her writing and therapy work both aim to end shame, uplift women’s health, and make space for messy, honest conversations about mental health. Website: https://heatherhendrie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heather.hendrie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heatherannehendrie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherhendrie/ Key Takeaways Humor can be a radical act of healing — especially when we use it to face shame. PMDD and mental health struggles thrive in silence; storytelling breaks that silence wide open. Nature isn’t just a backdrop for therapy — it’s a co-therapist. Healing doesn’t mean being “fine”; it means being honest. Laughter helps us metabolize pain and reconnect with joy. Actionable Items Write your own “awfully hilarious” story — something you once felt ashamed of — and notice how it feels to name it. Spend 15 minutes outdoors daily without your phone, just breathing and observing. Share one truth with someone safe this week — even if your voice shakes. References Mentioned awfully hilarious: stories we never tell — by Heather Hendrie True Nature Wilderness Therapy — https://heatherhendrie.com/ PMDD Awareness — https://iapmd.org Important Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + Why laughter belongs in mental health conversations 05:40 – Heather’s story: From PMDD chaos to compassion 13:20 – The birth of awfully hilarious and ending shame through storytelling 21:10 – Nature as a mirror for emotional healing 31:00 – What PMDD taught Heather about self-trust 43:00 – How humor and vulnerability change therapy 52:30 – Closing reflections + mental health reminder Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #PMDD #WomenInTherapy #HealingThroughHumor #AwfullyHilarious #WildernessTherapy #ShameResilience #SelfAcceptance #EmotionalHealth #StorytellingHeals #LaughterTherapy #WomensWellness #TherapyWorks #NatureHealing #MindBodyConnection ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to r

When burnout hit, former attorney Arlene Miller didn’t just slow down — she transformed her life. In this powerful episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Arlene to talk about identity loss, stress recovery, and what it really takes to lead and live from the heart. Together, they explore how letting go of ego and embracing love can turn chaos into calm and fear into focus. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark honest, unfiltered conversations about mental health. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You’re not your title, your past, or your burnout. You’re a human being learning to lead from love.” — Arlene Miller Episode Description What happens when your career becomes your identity — and then you realize it’s burning you out? For Arlene Miller, that moment of truth became the turning point toward healing. After more than three decades as an attorney, Arlene sold her law firm, traded the courtroom for compassion, and rebuilt her life as a Work-Life Harmony and Leadership Coach. In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles dive deep into Arlene’s journey from doing it all to being enough. They talk about the real costs of perfectionism, why women in high-stress careers often ignore their own needs, and how to reconnect to purpose after burnout. Arlene shares her tools for self-regulation, mindfulness, and what she calls “negotiating from the heart” — a method that replaces control with connection. Through laughter, honesty, and a few “been there” moments, this conversation reminds us that healing doesn’t mean giving up who you were; it means remembering who you are. Whether you’re rebuilding after burnout, craving emotional peace, or learning to set boundaries with grace, Arlene’s story will inspire you to trade hustle for harmony — and choose your mental health every time. Keywords: Arlene Miller, burnout recovery, emotional wellness, women’s mental health, work-life balance, self-compassion, executive presence, leadership coaching, mindfulness, anxiety relief, career burnout, emotional healing, boundaries, personal growth, resilience Meet Our Guest — Arlene Miller Arlene Cohen Miller is a Work-Life Harmony & Leadership Coach, retired attorney, and CEO of Jewel Consultancy. With over 30 years of legal experience and credentials as a Professional Certified Coach (ICF), Arlene helps women reclaim calm, confidence, and clarity in their personal and professional lives. A long-time yoga and meditation practitioner, she blends practical strategy with heart-centered wisdom to guide others from stress to serenity. Website: https://jewelconsultancy.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arlene.jewel/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/JewelCoachPCCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jewelcoach2/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arlenecmillerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlene-cohen-miller-54435b59/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jewelcoach2 Key Takeaways Burnout isn’t weakness — it’s a signal for change. You’re not your job title; you’re a person who deserves peace. Boundaries are love in action. Authentic leadership starts with self-awareness. We grow most when we learn to celebrate small wins. Actionable Items Pause before saying “yes.” Ask: Does this honor my peace? Practice a daily gratitude or breathing ritual to reset your nervous system. Identify one area where you can replace hustle with heart this week. References Mentioned Jewel Consultancy: https://jewelconsultancy.com International Coaching Federation: https://coachingfederation.org 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): https://988lifeline.org Important Chapters 00:05 – From attorney life to heart-centered coach 00:08 – Identity loss, ego, and learning to let go 00:13 – Burnout in the legal profession 00:17 – What coaching really looks like (vs. therapy) 00:21 – Saying no to fear and following inspiration 00:23 – Age, resilience, and redefining success after 60 Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #BurnoutRecovery #EmotionalWellness #WomenInLeadership #WorkLifeBalance #MindfulnessMatters #SelfCompassion #AnxietyRelief #HealingJourney #Resilience #HeartOverHustle #CareerPivot #MentalHealthSupport #CoachingForWomen #Bleav ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someon

Trigger Notice: This episode discusses anxiety, burnout, and mental health crises. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help.988 (U.S. & Canada) — Suicide & Crisis LifelineFind a global helpline: https://findahelpline.com When anxiety and perimenopause collided, Melissa Crook’s body said “no more.” In this episode, Dirty Skittles and G-Rex sit down with the inspiring Melissa — founder of The Embracing Layers Network and host of The F.E.E.L. Podcast — to talk about anxiety, burnout, and finding peace through emotional healing and self-discovery. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote:“You don’t have to hit the wall to start healing. You have to stop abandoning yourself.” — Melissa Crook Episode Description When Melissa Crook hit 50, her body and mind forced her to face decades of anxiety, burnout, and people-pleasing. Two ER visits later, she realized the panic wasn’t random — it was her body’s way of demanding change. In this candid conversation, Melissa joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how she went from panic to peace by learning to listen to her body, trust her intuition, and honor her emotional truth. Melissa opens up about her journey through perimenopause, therapy, and the creation of her F.E.E.L. Framework—a guide that helps women navigate life’s chaos with compassion rather than control. Together, they talk about setting boundaries, learning to rest without guilt, and finding laughter even in the middle of the storm. This episode is a reminder that anxiety doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’ve been strong for too long. Whether you’re managing burnout, struggling with self-worth, or craving emotional freedom, Melissa’s story offers fundamental tools and hope for healing. Keywords: Melissa Crook, Embracing Layers, F.E.E.L. Framework, anxiety, menopause, self-discovery, therapy, emotional health, boundaries, burnout, women’s mental health, healing journey, self-compassion, empowerment Meet Our Guest — Melissa Crook Melissa Crook is a thought-leader, speaker, and creator dedicated to helping women break free from performance pressure, reclaim their emotional truth, and live unapologetically aligned. Based in Fresno, California, she’s the founder of The Embracing Layers Network and host of The F.E.E.L. Podcast, creating brave spaces for women to connect with their emotional and physical well-being. After a health crisis at 50 forced her to confront decades of anxiety and codependency, Melissa turned her healing journey into her life’s work—helping women cultivate emotional literacy, boundaries, and self-compassion. Connect with Melissa:Website: https://www.embracinglayers.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracinglayers/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@embracinglayersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084428100763LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/embracinglayers/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqVVXe8SbTtBuzOyFTMjNFAX: https://twitter.com/embracinglayersPersonal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melmcrook2025Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-crook-967395106 Key Takeaways Anxiety isn’t something to “fix” — it’s a signal that something needs attention. Perimenopause can heighten anxiety, but awareness and support change everything. Healing begins when you stop abandoning yourself for others. Boundaries are a form of self-respect, not selfishness. Curiosity fuels growth; comfort keeps you stuck. True friends celebrate your healing, not question it. Actionable Items Check your bandwidth vs. time: if you’re overextended, permit yourself to cancel something. Create a grounding ritual to start your day calmly — like Melissa’s sunrise breathing routine. Ask yourself daily: “Is this asking me to abandon myself?” If yes, pause and choose differently. References Mentioned The F.E.E.L. Framework — https://www.embracinglayers.com/ 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org/ Global Crisis Resources) — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:05:00 – Melissa’s “shitstorm week” and learning to honor her emotions 00:09:00 – Canceling plans without guilt and redefining self-care 00:22:30 – The health scare that forced her to face anxiety head-on 00:28:00 – Therapy breakthroughs and redefining her relationship with anxiety 00:43:00 – Morning rituals, grounding, and emotional literacy 00:47:40 – Why curiosity matters more than comfort 00:51:00 – Melissa’s favorite word: Curiosity; least favorite: Comfort Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninour

Ever wonder why haunted houses can sometimes feel like your own anxious mind? Today, Dirty Skittles and G-Rex sit down with the incredible Brenda Ganske, creator and host of Horrifying History — the show where history, science, and the supernatural collide. Together, we unravel how fear, empathy, and history intersect with mental health and anxiety. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote:“You can’t heal what you don’t face — even if what you’re facing has a ghost attached to it.” Episode DescriptionParanormal meets personal healing in this hauntingly honest episode with Brenda Ganske, host of Horrifying History. We talk anxiety, OCD, and the surprising ways spooky stories and mental health collide — from haunted houses to healing minds. Tune in for empathy, humor, and real talk about finding calm in the chaos. Brenda opens up about her journey living with generalized anxiety and OCD, and how exploring history’s darkest corners became her therapy. From the Salem witch trials to haunted hotels, she explains why understanding fear helps us better understand ourselves. This episode is equal parts eerie and empowering — just in time for Halloween. We also talk about therapy wins, boundary-setting, and real-world anxiety tools, such as the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method. It’s spooky season with a dose of serotonin — because healing doesn’t always come wrapped in calm music and crystals. Sometimes it’s in the stories we tell. Brenda shares how storytelling and curiosity helped her manage anxiety and OCD, while the trio dives deep into therapy wins, coping skills, and how humor makes healing possible — even when life feels haunted. Expect honest conversation, a little history, and a reminder that anxiety doesn’t define you; it teaches you to feel deeply. Keywords: Brenda Ganske, Horrifying History, anxiety, OCD, mental health, podcast, healing, haunted houses, therapy, empathy, history, spooky season, trauma healing, coping tools, self-care, Halloween Meet Our Guest — Brenda GanskeBrenda Ganske is the creator and host of Horrifying History, the podcast where history, the supernatural, and science collide. An amateur historian and expert “spookstoryian,” Brenda brings her analytical background and love of mystery to explore urban legends and historical hauntings in search of truth. She was born and raised in Alberta, Canada, and when she’s not uncovering ghostly tales, she’s hanging with her co-host Gizmo the Shih Tzu — the most loyal (and snoring) sidekick in podcasting. Listen to Horrifying History: https://bleav.com/shows/horrifying-historyWebsite: https://horrifying-history-shop.fourthwall.comX: https://x.com/HorrifyingHist1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/horrifying_history/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/horrifyinghistory Key Takeaways History and mental health often mirror each other — we repeat what we don’t understand. Anxiety doesn’t make you weak; it makes you deeply aware. Empaths and creatives often carry emotional residue from places and people. The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique is a powerful way to manage anxiety. Therapy and self-awareness help turn old fear responses into healing moments. It’s okay to love spooky things and talk about mental health. Actionable Items Try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise when you feel anxious. Write down what “haunts” your thoughts — then ask what truth it’s trying to tell you. Make space for fear and curiosity; both can lead to healing. References Mentioned Horrifying History Podcast: https://bleav.com/shows/horrifying-history 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique (for anxiety management) EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy Important Chapters00:00 – Welcome + Why this episode is Dirty Skittles’ “Jimmy Jam” 02:00 – Brenda on the Salem Witch Trials & the psychology of fear 06:00 – Haunted energy and being an empath in spooky spaces 19:00 – Living with anxiety and OCD 25:00 – Tools and therapy that actually work (EMDR, grounding) 34:00 – Advice Brenda would give her younger self 39:00 – Learning to walk away from toxic people 41:00 – Closing + our mental health reminder Closing CTASubscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #AnxietyRelief #HauntedHistory #OCDRecovery #PodcastCommunity #HealingJourney #TraumaHealing #HauntedMind #WomenInPodcasting #EmpathEnergy #ParanormalPodcast #SelfCareTools #HalloweenPodcast #GhostStories #HorrifyingHistory #Bleav ************************************************************

Welcome to another episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads—the podcast where we stop pretending everything’s fine and actually talk about it. This week, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jewell Hohman, a friendship and connection coach who proves that the antidote to loneliness isn’t another self-help trend—it’s learning how to build real human bonds. Jewell opens up about her journey through social anxiety, people-pleasing, and isolation—and how she turned those struggles into a movement that helps people rediscover authentic friendship and true belonging. We’re proud recipients of the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health) and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast). With over 2 million downloads, this community continues to grow stronger every day. Episode Description She drops truth bombs about how loneliness can wreck your mental health, why vulnerability matters more than perfection, and how friendship can be your most powerful form of therapy. This conversation isn’t fluff—it’s real talk on the emotional mechanics of connection, and it might just make you rethink how you show up for the people who matter most. “True belonging is about embracing your authentic self so much that you can confidently share who you are with the world—and still stand strong when you’re alone.” — Jewell. If you’ve ever felt unseen, disconnected, or stuck in your head about whether people actually like you, this one’s for you. Let’s break down the stigma, laugh through the pain, and remember that connection is medicine. Listeners are invited to leave feedback—written or voice—at: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Keywords: friendship, mental health, loneliness, social anxiety, connection, vulnerability, belonging, emotional wellness, self-confidence, healing through friendship Meet Our Guest — Jewell Hohman Jewell Hohman is a certified friendship and self-confidence coach, speaker, and soon-to-be clinical social worker. She helps people around the world create meaningful friendships, overcome high-functioning social anxiety, and rediscover joy in being themselves. Jewell is the founder of Connection with Jewell, a platform that teaches practical tools for belonging, vulnerability, and emotional wellness. Her mission: to help 10,000+ people find real connection—not performative, surface-level “friendship.” Follow Jewell: Website: https://www.connectionwithjewel.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connectionwithjewel Why she matters: Jewell gets it. She’s lived the loneliness, learned the science, and built a framework for friendship that actually heals. She’s not talking theory—she’s lived this, and she’s here to help you stop overthinking and start connecting. Key Takeaways Friendship isn’t optional—it’s a vital part of your mental health ecosystem. Loneliness and social anxiety feed each other, but neither is permanent. True friendship requires vulnerability, not perfection. Meaningful connections heal shame, boost emotional safety, and build resilience. You don’t have to fix yourself to be loved—you need to show up honestly. Actionable Items Reconnect intentionally. Pick one person this week and send them a real message—no memes, no filler. Ask how they truly are. Notice your inner critic. When you catch yourself thinking “I’m too much” or “I’m not enough,” pause and reframe. Create consistency. Friendship grows in the small, steady moments—text, coffee, or call. Just keep showing up. References Mentioned ConnectionWithJewell.com — Friendship and belonging resources Jewell’s trainings: “How to Belong at Any Event” and “How to Turn People You Meet Into Friends” Listener feedback: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Episode Chapters 00:00 – 02:30 | Welcome back + podcast updates02:31 – 10:45 | Jewell’s story—social anxiety, loneliness, and rebuilding connection10:46 – 20:00 | The science behind friendship and mental health20:01 – 33:00 | Overcoming social anxiety and creating emotional safety33:01 – 45:00 | The three essentials for real friendship45:01 – End | Closing thoughts and actionable takeaways Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #FriendshipAndMentalHealth #Connection #Loneliness #SocialAnxiety #EmotionalWellness #Authenticity #Community #SelfConfidence #Belonging #HealingThroughFriendship #JewelHohman ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide:

Today on Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, we’re talking with the powerhouse that is B-Cide — rapper, producer, and Author of Myelin My Shoes. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2011, B-Cide went from rocking stages to fighting for his health and sanity. But instead of giving up, he turned his pain into power — using music as therapy and mental resilience as his foundation. Recently featured in over 170 media outlets, including Yahoo Finance and Digital Journal, B-Cide’s story isn’t just about illness — it’s about survival, creativity, and grit. From managing a record deal to building his streetwear brand, 55 Strong, he proves that no diagnosis can silence your drive. We also talk about the brutal mental toll of losing independence, the power of creative outlets, and how choosing optimism can literally save your life. “You don’t get to choose what knocks you down, but you do get to choose how loud you get back up.” — Unknown. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is proud to be the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast) winner — with over 2 million downloads and counting. Got thoughts on this episode? We wanna hear ‘em — written or voice feedback welcome at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Episode Description In this episode, Robert “B-Cide” Cardillo II takes listeners on a brutally honest ride through the highs and lows of his life. Known across the underground hip-hop scene for his raw lyrics and fearless storytelling, B-Cide built his career on perseverance and passion — long before his diagnosis ever entered the picture. He toured the country, produced tracks with major underground acts, and earned a reputation for being unapologetically authentic. Then, in 2011, everything changed. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, B-Cide suddenly faced a world of hospitals, medication, and losing control of his own body. What followed wasn’t just a health battle — it was a mental one. He speaks candidly about depression, identity loss, and how music became his escape and lifeline. This episode dives deep into how B-Cide rebuilt his world piece by piece: transforming his pain into poetry, launching his 55 Strong clothing brand, and writing his memoir Myelin My Shoes — a raw and powerful look at life, illness, and reinvention. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles guide the conversation into what resilience really looks like when life takes away what you love most. It’s not just a story about surviving MS. It’s a story about refusing to be silenced, about finding new purpose, and about using creativity to fight back when your body, your mind, and the world say you can’t. Meet Our Guest — Robert “B-Cide” Cardillo II Featured on 170+ news outlets, including Yahoo Finance, Digital Journal, and Benzinga. Rapper, producer, and author of Myelin My Shoes — a raw, unfiltered memoir about life with MS, mental health battles, and a 25-year underground music grind. After his MS diagnosis, B-Cide turned his creativity toward resilience — building 55 Strong, a clothing brand and record label that embodies his “never quit” mindset. His story isn’t just about surviving a diagnosis; it’s about redefining what’s possible when life hits hard. Connect with B-Cide: Website: http://www.b-cide.com Memoir: http://www.myelinmyshoes.com Bandcamp: https://bcide.bandcamp.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bcide X: https://x.com/RealBCIDE YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@btvstudio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcide/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bcide Key Takeaways Music can be therapy — creativity gives purpose and relief when life feels unbearable. Mental health isn’t linear — some days suck, and that’s okay; the trick is to keep showing up. Chronic illness doesn’t define you — your story does. Community matters — connecting with others breaks the cycle of isolation. Resilience is a daily decision — even when your body quits, your spirit doesn’t have to. Actionable Items Write or record what you’re feeling — even raw emotion counts as therapy. Reach out to someone today and talk about what’s on your mind. Explore creative outlets (art, music, journaling) to release emotional tension. References Mentioned Myelin My Shoes by Robert “B-Cide” Cardillo II — https://www.myelinmyshoes.com B-Cide Clothing & Music — https://www.b-cide.com Easy Anxiety by Krizz Kaliko Important Chapters 00:00 – Intro: G-Rex & Dirty Skittles welcome B-Cide04:00 – Growing up with music and discovering rap10:00 – The MS diagnosis that changed everything15:00 – Turning pain into music and mental healing20:00 – Creating 55 Strong: clothing and resilience27:00 – Lessons from heartbreak and loss30:00 – B-Cide’s message on mental health, gratitude, and creativity33:00 – Closing thoughts and call to action Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://go

In this episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, Tabitha shares her perspective on living with trauma and her ongoing mental health recovery. The discussion covers therapy, dissociative disorder, communication challenges, and the importance of professional support. The show continues its mission to present authentic conversations on mental health topics. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has reached more than three million downloads and received recognition from the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health) and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast). Listeners are encouraged to provide written or voice feedback at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Episode Description Tabitha first connected with the podcast as a listener who found the content supportive during a difficult period. After reaching out to share her experience, she was invited to appear on the show. During the conversation, Tabitha outlines her early experiences with trauma, her diagnosis of dissociative disorder, and the steps she has taken through therapy to establish boundaries and improve communication. She explains how structured therapeutic support and reflection helped her develop strategies for personal stability and growth. This episode highlights the practical aspects of therapy, the role of consistent self-work, and the process of rebuilding self-trust after trauma. Keywords: trauma, therapy, mental health podcast, dissociative disorder, childhood abuse, self-worth, forgiveness, healing, anxiety, depression recovery, emotional resilience Meet Our Guest — Tabitha Tabitha is a professional in the baseball industry, a wife, and a mother. She has experienced multiple forms of trauma and has worked to rebuild stability through therapy and personal reflection. After discovering Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, while searching for mental health podcasts, she contacted the hosts to share how the show supported her recovery process. She was later invited to appear as a guest to discuss her progress and her perspective on therapy, family communication, and setting healthy boundaries. Key Takeaways Recovery begins when individuals address their experiences directly. Finding an appropriate therapist is essential for long-term progress. Communication and boundaries improve emotional regulation. Self-forgiveness supports sustained mental health. Speaking openly about mental health can reduce stigma. Actionable Items Note one practical goal for improving personal well-being each day. Establish one clear boundary with a trusted person or within a relationship. Contact a licensed therapist or use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate support if needed. References Mentioned Mel Robbins Podcast: https://www.melrobbins.com/podcast 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): https://acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com Important Chapters 00:01:00 — Introduction: Overview of Tabitha and her background.00:05:00 — Discovery: How she found Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads.00:10:00 — Early Trauma: Discussion of childhood experiences and their long-term impact.00:20:00 — Therapy Progress: Identifying practical therapeutic approaches.00:30:00 — Boundaries: Communication and relationship adjustments.00:50:00 — Reflection: Key lessons and advice for others in recovery. Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and ReviewSubscribe for more conversations about mental health and personal development. Rate and review on your preferred podcast platform, or visit:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #TraumaHealing #TherapyJourney #SelfWorth #AnxietySupport #ChildhoodTrauma #HealingTogether #MentalHealthRecovery #EndTheStigma #EmotionalHealing #WomenSupportingWomen #PodcastCommunity #Mindfulness #DissociativeDisorder ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today on Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with the unstoppable force that is Dyan — an artist, meditator, and self-proclaimed “witchy free spirit” who’s been living with rheumatoid arthritis for fifty years and still finds ways to laugh through it all. Dyan’s story is one of strength, humor, and pure heart. She talks about growing up wild in the ’60s, getting hit by a bus as a kid (yep, literally), and finding peace through meditation and tai chi. Diagnosed in her twenties, Dyan refused to let pain define her life — instead, she built a toolbox of mindfulness, creativity, and compassion that’s kept her grounded through every twist. She shares how to live with acceptance instead of resistance, why laughter is medicine, and how joy always starts within. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, wrapped in warmth and wit. Proud winner of the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health) and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast), with over 2 million downloads! We want to hear from YOU! Leave your written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote: “Even when life hurts like hell, there’s still room for laughter, light, and love.” — G-Rex Episode Description Dyan’s voice radiates calm, compassion, and just the right amount of sass. She opens up about growing up during the wild ‘60s, where “sex, drugs, and rock and roll” shaped her fearless outlook on life. But when rheumatoid arthritis hit in her early twenties, everything changed — her body, her plans, and her perspective. Instead of giving up, Dyan leaned into life itself. She found meditation, tai chi, and yoga long before they were trending hashtags. She talks about learning to listen to her body, to stop people-pleasing, and to embrace the messy, magical reality of aging with humor and grace. What’s so powerful about Dyan’s story isn’t just her survival — it’s her mindset. She still creates art, leads chair yoga at her local library, and shares hugs like they’re oxygen. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles dive into how she handles chronic pain, anxiety, and those “can’t-get-out-of-bed” days with self-compassion and laughter. This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt broken, stuck, or worn down by life. Dyan reminds us that healing isn’t about going back — it’s about finding peace right where you are. SEO Keywords: rheumatoid arthritis, chronic illness, chronic pain, mindfulness, meditation, mental health awareness, resilience, positive mindset, women’s health, healing journey, self-care, mental wellness, acceptance, finding joy, chronic illness stories Meet Our Guest — Dyan Dyan is a lifelong seeker, artist, and advocate for self-healing. Born in New York City, she spent her early years exploring everything life threw at her — from hitchhiking across the country to diving deep into meditation and tai chi. Living with rheumatoid arthritis for five decades, Dyan has become a model of perseverance and joy, teaching chair yoga at her local library, creating vibrant watercolor art, and spreading love wherever she goes. Why She Matters:Because she’s living proof that pain doesn’t get to call the shots. Dyan shows us how to live fully — body, mind, and soul — with humor, wisdom, and zero apologies. Key Takeaways Chronic illness doesn’t define your worth — your attitude does. Meditation and breathing can ground you even on the hardest days. Joy is an inside job; stop waiting for perfect circumstances. Acceptance beats resistance — what you fight owns you. A good laugh and a good hug can change everything. Actionable Items Try box breathing (inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4) next time anxiety hits. Practice gratitude grounding — step outside barefoot and say one thing you’re thankful for. Start a 5-minute meditation routine, even if it’s messy. References Mentioned Dalai Lama quote on letting go of what you can’t change Box breathing technique (used by Navy SEALs) Tai Chi and meditation practices for chronic pain “The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire” (Dyan’s current read) Important Chapters 00:01:00 – Meet Dyan: From New York City to upstate New York — and a wild ‘60s upbringing.00:10:00 – Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: How Dyan found strength through meditation and movement.00:17:00 – Coping and Perseverance: Learning to be her own advocate and embrace alternative healing.00:25:00 – Finding Joy in the Everyday: Gratitude, hugs, and saying “f*ck it” to what you can’t control.00:33:00 – Wisdom for the Next Generation: Advice to her younger self and lessons from a life well lived. Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #RheumatoidArthritis #ChronicPain #Mindfulness #Meditation #Resilience #SelfCare #HealingJourney

This week, we sit down with Joe McQueen, a powerhouse educator and mental health professional who’s spent over two decades working with youth that the world often turns away from. Joe doesn’t just talk the talk — he’s in the trenches daily, helping young people navigate trauma, crisis, and the messy reality of mental health struggles. As a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads, we’re honored to bring you another raw, eye-opening conversation that pulls no punches. Joe’s work through Therapeutic Perspectives LLC is grounded in real-life experience, not just theory. His approach to trauma-informed de-escalation, restorative practices, and mental health education for schools changes the way teachers, parents, and youth workers connect with kids who are hurting. In this episode, we unpack how trauma shapes behavior, why relationships matter more than rules, and how empathy can literally save lives. 🧠 “The kids who need love the most will ask for it in the most unloving ways.” — Unknown If you’ve ever felt burned out, frustrated, or helpless working with youth, this one’s for you. Joe’s message: hope lives in hard work. 👉 Drop your thoughts or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Meet Our Guest — Joe McQueen Joe McQueen has spent over 20 years working in education and mental health, dedicating his life to helping the youth others send away. He calls himself “a kid who can relate to the kids I work with every day,” and his passion shows in every training, keynote, and mentoring session. As the founder of Therapeutic Perspectives LLC, Joe delivers trauma-informed de-escalation, restorative practices, and school mental health awareness training that blend research, experience, and heart. He’s also the Author of “Calming Young Minds: Understanding Escalation and De-Escalation in Youth.” 🌐 Website: https://www.theraputicperspectives.com/ 📘 Book: https://www.amazon.com/Calming-Young-Minds-Understanding-Escalation/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-mcqueen-360729240/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookcalmingyoungminds/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CalmingYoungMindsBook Key Takeaways Real change in youth work starts with understanding trauma, not punishment. Crisis de-escalation is about connection, not control. Educators need healing, too — burnout is real. Relationships are the foundation of mental wellness in schools. Data doesn’t fix kids — empathy and consistency do. Actionable Items Learn trauma-informed language — replace “What’s wrong with you?” with “What happened to you?” Implement daily check-ins with youth to build safety and trust. Read Joe’s book “Calming Young Minds” for practical de-escalation tools. References Mentioned Calming Young Minds: Understanding Escalation and De-Escalation in Youth – Joe McQueen https://www.theraputicperspectives.com/ Important Chapters (Timestamps + Context) 00:00 – Welcome & Joe’s backstory 08:45 – Growing up “that kid” who gets sent away 16:10 – Why trauma-informed care matters more than policy 23:30 – How burnout shows up in educators and youth workers 31:00 – De-escalation in real time: practical stories from the field 40:20 – Healing through relationships, not consequences 50:00 – Final thoughts: choosing hope daily Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #TraumaInformedCare #YouthMentalHealth #DeEscalation #RestorativePractices #SchoolMentalHealth #Education #BurnoutRecovery #EmpathyMatters #CalmingYoungMinds #TraumaHealing #AnxietySupport #EmotionalWellness #HealingJourney #YouthAdvocacy ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Season 14 of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads—and we’re opening with a powerhouse: Mayim Bialik. You know her from Blossom, The Big Bang Theory, and Jeopardy!, but in this conversation, she steps off the stage lights and speaks from the heart. This podcast is proud to be a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award winner (Best Health) and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award winner (Best Mental Health Podcast). With over 2 million downloads, we’re building a global community where mental health conversations are real, raw, and stigma-free. 💬 Got thoughts on this episode? Please leave us a written or voice review: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Quote of the Episode: "No one is alone. And even when we feel alone, there is always a lifeboat." – Mayim Bialik Episode Description In this powerful Season 14 opener, Mayim Bialik gets real about what it was like growing up on Blossom, navigating the pressures of fame, and surviving the harsh criticism that came with life in the spotlight. She opens up about the insecurities behind her confident on-screen characters, the mental health struggles she faced as a teen actor, and the ongoing journey of therapy and self-discovery. We dive into conversations around anxiety, depression, and the stigma of speaking openly about mental illness—especially in families where silence was the norm. Mayim also shares why she started her own podcast, Bialik’s Breakdown, and how her PhD in neuroscience inspired her mission to make mental health conversations more accessible. We explore topics like codependency, addiction, spirituality, and the small joys that keep her grounded (spoiler: cats, cooking, and stickers make the list). From advice for teenagers who feel out of place to the importance of borrowing someone else’s faith in you when your own runs out, this episode is full of wisdom, humor, and raw humanity. It’s not just a celebrity interview—it’s a masterclass in being human, messy and all. Meet Our Guest — Mayim Bialik Mayim Bialik is best known for her lead role as Blossom Russo in the early-1990s NBC television sitcom Blossom. She played the role of Amy Farrah Fowler on the critically acclaimed CBS comedy, The Big Bang Theory, a role for which she received 2 Critics’ Choice Award wins, 4 Emmy nominations and a SAG Award nomination. She served as host of Jeopardy! for 2 seasons, earning her fifth Emmy nomination for her contributions to the iconic show, which won its first Primetime Emmy the year she hosted. In 2021, Bialik wrote and directed the feature film As They Made Us, starring Dustin Hoffman, Candice Bergen, Dianna Agron, and Simon Helberg. She hosts the popular mental health podcast Mayim Bialik’s Breakdown, which has garnered over 60 million downloads. Bialik holds a BS and PhD in Neuroscience from UCLA, and she has authored four books, two of which are New York Times Bestsellers: "Girling Up: How to Be Strong, Smart, and Spectacular" and "Boying Up: How to Be Brave, Bold, and Brilliant." Socials: Instagram: https://instagram.com/missmayim Substack: https://bialikbreakdown.substack.com/ Podcast IG: https://instagram.com/bialikbreakdown Why Mayim matters: This woman is a force. From Blossom to The Big Bang Theory to Jeopardy! to directing films, Mayim’s résumé is stacked—but what makes her matter here is her willingness to get honest about the hard stuff. She has taken her scientific brain, her Hollywood grit, and her own lived experiences to open up conversations that make people feel less alone. That’s the kind of guest who doesn’t just inspire—you feel her words. Key Takeaways Being “quirky” or different doesn’t go away—it just bothers you less with time. Mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all; healing looks different for everyone. Secrets keep us sick—honesty and vulnerability are the keys to connection. Fame doesn’t shield anyone from insecurity or anxiety. Joy often comes from the small, simple things—like cooking, cats, or stickers. Borrowing someone else’s faith in you can be the lifeline you need. Actionable Items Start a gratitude practice—list three small things daily that bring you joy. If you’re struggling, try “speed-dating therapists” until you find one who’s the right fit. Drop the shame: share your truth with someone you trust—you’re only as sick as your secrets. References Mentioned NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): https://nami.org Mayim Bialik’s Breakdown Podcast: https://www.bialikbreakdown.com Whitney Cummings (on codependency): https://whitneycummings.com Important Chapters [00:02:00] Blossom Days – Mayim opens up about the groundbreaking role and how it shaped conversations on TV. [00:06:15] Tackling Heavy Topics – Behind the scenes of handling episodes on consent, drugs, and family dynamics. [00:15:00] Starting a Mental Health Podcast – Why Mayim launched Bialik’s Breakdown. [00:22:00] Breaking Family Silence – From secrecy to speaking openly about mental health and recovery. [00:36:10] Advice for Young Girls – Wi

We made it — Season 13 is officially in the books! In this special season ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down to reflect on the incredible humans who shared their stories with us this season. This season has been about resilience, rediscovery, and purpose — all of us taking the hard sh!t life throws and turning it into something that helps others. That’s what makes Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, what it is: a place for real talk, no stigma, no judgment. We’re honored to have won the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health) and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast) — and with over 2 million downloads, it’s clear this community is growing stronger every day. 💬 We’d love your feedback — leave us a written or voice review here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a ✨ Mental health reminder: “Every time you share your story, you unlock someone else’s prison.” 💸 Grab Your Free $20 Wellness Credit from Maavee We’ve partnered with Maavee, a wellness platform doing amazing things in mental health. How to claim: Click: https://lnk.gomaavee.com/inourheads​ Use activation code: STG20 (required to unlock the credit) Download the app + explore 🎧 Episode Description ⚠️ Trigger Notice: This episode touches on grief, trauma, and eating disorders. Please take care while listening. If you are struggling or in crisis, dial 988 in the U.S. for immediate support. You are never alone. 💜 This isn’t your average episode — it’s our Season 13 Ender, baby! 🎉 G-Rex and Dirty Skittles kick back and unpack the wild, emotional, and downright inspiring ride this season has been. We revisit each guest, starting with Susan’s gut-wrenching yet powerful three-parter on grief, rolling into Jennifer’s brilliant Moody Monster, Kim’s wisdom on food and emotions, Dr. Paul’s refreshing “whole human” approach to medicine, Laurie’s badass resilience after loss and betrayal, Simon’s late ADHD/autism diagnosis and advocacy work, and Dr. Nina breaking down what our food cravings really mean. This episode is part recap, part gratitude fest, and part pep talk for what’s next. You’ll hear us laugh, reflect, drop a few f-bombs (because duh), and tease Season 14. Think of this one as a highlight reel with heart — a reminder of how far we’ve come as a community and why these stories matter. If you’ve been with us since Episode 1 or you just jumped in this season, this episode ties it all together with a big bow of hope, resilience, and “holy shit, we survived another one.” 💜 👥 Meet Our Guests (Season 13 Lineup) This wasn’t just a season — it was a movement. Our guests shared their most profound truths, and we’re better for it: Susan – Author & speaker who shared her grief journey and healing through faith and community. Jennifer – Creator of Moody Monster, helping kids (and adults!) name and manage emotions. Kim – Food & emotions coach who connected cravings with feelings in new, powerful ways. Dr. Paul – Compassionate physician championing holistic, whole-person medical care. Storm – Survivor, advocate, and total badass turning trauma into empowerment. Simon – Podcaster and advocate for ADHD/autism awareness, helping kids find their voices. Dr. Nina – Psychologist digging deep into emotional eating and healing from the inside out. 🔑 Key Takeaways Sharing your story isn’t just healing for you — it opens doors for others. Emotions and food are deeply connected than we realize. Doctors like Dr. Paul demonstrated that compassion in medicine is still alive. Resilience comes from choosing yourself, even when life kicks you down. ADHD and autism diagnoses in adulthood can bring relief, clarity, and purpose. Grief, anxiety, and trauma don’t define you — they can fuel growth. 🛠️ Actionable Items Practice naming your emotions daily — journaling, art, or even a “Moody Monster” can help. Notice what foods you crave and connect them to the emotions underlying them. Find a community (online, local, or through podcasts like this one) where you can share your story safely. 📚 References Mentioned Jennifer’s Moody Monster tool. Kim’s food-emotion framework (Yucky, Yummy, Savory, Sweet). Dr. Nina’s insights on food cravings and emotions. Simon’s podcast and work with neuro divergent kids. ⏱️ Important Chapters [00:06] Season 13 Wrap Kickoff – G-Rex & Dirty Skittles reflect on a lucky number 13. [06:30] Susan’s Three-Part Story – Grief, faith, and healing through community. [10:30] Jennifer & Moody Monster – Naming emotions and tools for kids and adults. [14:30] Kim’s Food & Emotions – What cravings really mean. [18:20] Dr. Paul’s Holistic Medicine – Doctors who really listen. [21:00] Laurie’s Strength – Divorce, illness, and finding her badass self. [23:30] Simon’s ADHD/Autism Journey – Diagnosis, clarity, and advocacy. [25:40] Dr. Nina on Emotional Eating – The hidden stories behind cravings. [27:30] Gratitude & Season 14 Teaser – A look ahead to what’s coming next. 📢 Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Rememb

Food is never the problem—it’s the solution to the problem. That’s the game-changing perspective Dr. Nina Savelle Rocklin brings to this episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads. A psychoanalyst, bestselling author, and podcast host, Dr. Nina has made it her mission to help people overcome binge eating and emotional eating by addressing what’s really going on underneath. We’re honored to bring you this conversation fresh off our wins at the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health) and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast). With over 2 million downloads, our community is growing—and this talk with Dr. Nina is one you won’t want to miss. We swap stories about food as a form of comfort, donuts as a means of stress relief, and why being harsh to ourselves fuels the cycle. Dr. Nina explains her Food-Mood Formula, demonstrating how cravings indicate underlying needs—whether it’s comfort, anger, or loneliness. She also reminds us that changing our inner dialogue from “you’re not enough” to “I am enough” can transform not just eating habits, but our entire mental health journey. 💬 Share your thoughts after the episode—we want to hear from you! Drop written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a “You can’t tear yourself down and lift yourself up at the same time.” – Dr. Nina Savelle Rocklin Episode Description In this raw and honest conversation, Dr. Nina Savelle Rocklin shares how binge-eating, emotional eating, and food struggles are never about food—they’re about what’s going on beneath the surface. From her Food-Mood Formula to the power of self-compassion, Dr. Nina helps us rethink comfort food, body image, and mental health with tools you can use right away. Keywords: Dr. Nina Savelle Rocklin, binge-eating, emotional eating, mental health podcast, Food-Mood Formula, body image, food freedom, eating disorder recovery, self-compassion, therapy tools Meet Our Guest — Dr. Nina Savelle Rocklin Dr. Nina Savelle Rocklin is a psychoanalyst, author, and podcast host known worldwide for her groundbreaking work in the psychology of eating. As the founder of The Binge Cure Method, she helps people break free from emotional eating, enabling them to feel good in their bodies and lives. Her message—“It’s not what you’re eating, it’s what’s eating at you”—has reached listeners in 57 countries. 🌐 Website: https://drninainc.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnina4help/ Why does she matter? Because Dr. Nina isn’t just another “diet culture” expert. She lived through eating disorders herself, healed, and now dedicates her life to showing us that food freedom comes from compassion, not willpower. Key Takeaways Food is rarely the problem—it’s a response to deeper emotional needs. The “Food-Mood Formula” links cravings with emotions such as comfort, anger, or loneliness. Self-criticism fuels destructive cycles; self-compassion opens the door to healing. Success isn’t about “not eating the donut”—it’s about noticing why you want it. Changing inner dialogue from “you” to “I” strengthens self-worth and mental health. Actionable Items Next time you crave food, pause and ask: What’s eating at me? Switch self-talk to first person—replace “You’re not good enough” with “I’m doing my best.” Comfort yourself the way you’d comfort a loved one—use words, not food. References Mentioned Dr. Nina’s book: The Binge Cure: 7 Steps to Outsmart Emotional Eating – https://drninainc.com/ The Binge Cure Journal (Companion Workbook) Podcast: The Binge Cure with Dr. Nina Important Chapters (Timestamps + Context) [00:03:00] Dr. Nina’s journey from “poster child for eating disorders” to psychoanalyst. [00:08:30] Why food is comfort—and why it never solves the real problem. [00:13:30] The story of “Jenna” and how ice cream wasn’t the issue—it was family triggers. [00:16:30] The Food-Mood Formula explained (comfort, filling, crunchy, sweet). [00:26:00] How harsh self-talk drives eating struggles—and how to reframe it. [00:34:00] Body image, culture, and why “beauty is not an achievement.” [00:42:00] Hardest life lessons and the advice Dr. Nina would give her younger self. [00:46:00] Self-care rituals, murder mysteries, and Zane the Great Dane. Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #DrNina #EmotionalEating #BingeEatingRecovery #FoodFreedom #EatingDisorderAwareness #FoodMoodFormula #SelfCompassion #BodyImage #StopDietCulture #InnerCritic #TherapyWorks #FoodHealing #MindBodyHealth #Psychoanalysis #PodcastCommunity ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in you

In this episode, Simon takes us inside his raw and remarkable journey of living with ADHD and autism — from 42 years of silence and memory loss, to discovering his inner voice “Mo,” to building strategies that help him and others thrive. We explore the impact of late diagnosis, the challenges of medication, the healing power of podcasting, and the unexpected ways light language is giving non-speaking autistic kids a voice. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is proud to be the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast. With over 2 million downloads, we’re here to break stigma, amplify real stories, and remind you that you’re not alone. We want to hear what you think. Leave us a voice message or written feedback at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote of the Episode "Sometimes the hardest conversations lead us to the deepest healing." — Unknown. What This Episode Is About Simon’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. For decades, he lived without memories, struggling with connection and learning. After his ADHD diagnosis in 2019, medication opened the door to memory, understanding, and an inner voice he calls “Mo.” Later, an autism diagnosis layered on even more complexity — and clarity. Through writing The 13 Hour Life Coach, podcasting on AUDHD Me & Mo, and experimenting with light language therapy, Simon has turned pain into purpose. We talk about ADHD strategies, the 13-hour “window of clarity” medication provides, the reality of memory loss, and his deeply vulnerable work helping non-speaking autistic kids begin to communicate. Simon reminds us that healing isn’t linear, that diagnosis doesn’t have to be a dead end, and that even the most brutal truths can become the foundation of purpose. Keywords: ADHD strategies, autism acceptance, late diagnosis, neurodivergence, light language therapy, parenting ADHD, podcast therapy, mental health storytelling Meet Our Guest – Simon Arnold Simon Arnold is the creator of The 13 Hour Life Coach and host of the podcast AUDHD Me & Mo. Diagnosed with ADHD in 2019 and autism in 2023, Simon transformed his struggles into resources for others: 155 ADHD success strategies, an award-winning podcast, and light language therapy sessions for non-speaking autistic kids. 👉 Connect with Simon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonarnold-audhd Simon isn’t just teaching strategies—he’s living them. From memory loss to healing breakthroughs, his story demonstrates that even in the most challenging chapters, resilience and creativity can pave the way forward. Key Takeaways How ADHD medication unlocked Simon’s ability to read, remember, and connect. He lives in a 13-hour “window of clarity” each day. How his podcast became therapy and community. The impact of an autism diagnosis later in life. Why does he use light language therapy to support non-speaking autistic kids? Why reframing ADHD and autism narratives is essential for healing. Actionable Items Journal or podcast your own journey to process emotions and track growth. Use checklists and routines to stay grounded and get tasks done. Revisit old notes, writings, or ideas—you may already have your own roadmap. References Mentioned The 13 Hour Life Coach by Simon Arnold (Lulu.com) Podcast: AUDHD Me & Mo Simon’s Stand Store: AUDHD Me & Mo resources Chapters & Timestamps 00:01:00 – ADHD diagnosis and meeting “Mo”00:04:00 – The 13-hour medication window00:08:00 – Writing The 13 Hour Life Coach00:15:00 – Autism diagnosis and its impact00:17:30 – Dragons, light language, and healing work00:25:00 – Why podcasting became Simon’s therapy00:29:30 – Parenting tips for ADHD and autism00:34:20 – Simon’s biggest personal success00:46:00 – Hardest lesson: daily memory loss and contrast Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Love what you hear? Don’t miss a single story. Subscribe to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads wherever you listen to podcasts. ⭐️ Leave us a rating and review — it helps more people find these powerful conversations.Visit us: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#ADHD #ADHDAwareness #AutismAcceptance #Neurodivergence #NeurodivergentVoices#HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #MoAndMe #ParentingADHD #PodcastTherapy#LightLanguageHealing #Resilience #MentalHealthStorytelling #LivingWithADHD #AutismCommunity ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: go

In Part 2 of our two-part conversation with Storm, we continue uncovering the raw, unfiltered truths behind surviving medical trauma, chronic illness, and emotional isolation — and how one woman pulled herself out of the darkest corners of her life to reclaim her voice, her joy, and her power. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is proud to be the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast. With over 2 million downloads, we’re here to break stigma, amplify real stories, and remind you that you’re not alone. We want to hear what you think. Leave us a voice message or written feedback at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote of the Episode "It’s not weak to acknowledge your pain. It’s not weak to share it. And if you don't deal with your sh!t, it will deal with you." — Storm What This Episode Is About In this continuation of Storm’s journey, we dive into what happens after you’ve lost everything — your health, your child, your marriage, your career, and your voice — and how one woman chose to rise. Storm opens up about what it really takes to rebuild a life from rubble. We talk about Medicaid and medical poverty, managing invisible illnesses, grieving family loss, finding community after isolation, healing through music, and learning how to be your own damn hero. Storm doesn’t sugarcoat it: recovery isn’t linear, self-love isn’t easy, and waiting for someone else to save you might keep you stuck. This is a story about owning your truth, speaking it out loud, and refusing to go quietly. Keywords: mental health recovery, chronic illness survivor, toxic relationships, trauma healing, female empowerment, fluoroquinolone toxicity, self-worth, manifestation, emotional resilience Meet Our Guest – Storm Storm is a survivor, a storyteller, and a force of nature. After enduring a catastrophic reaction to a commonly prescribed antibiotic, Storm found herself bedridden, silenced by the medical system, and abandoned by the people who should have stood by her. Her journey took her through the darkest depths of chronic illness, emotional abuse, medical gaslighting, divorce, financial instability, and the heartbreaking estrangement from her only child. But she refused to stay down. Armed with resilience, radical self-talk, and a deep well of inner fire, Storm clawed her way back—physically, mentally, emotionally, and creatively. She transformed pain into purpose, reclaiming her identity as a writer, singer, and woman in full. Through music, manifestation, and unmatched grit, Storm built a new life brick by broken brick. Today, she uses her voice to speak out against medical injustice, normalize hard conversations about mental health, and remind others that it’s never too late to start over. She isn’t just weathering the storm. She is the storm. Key Takeaways Why Storm refused to stay down after losing her son, parents, and partner How grief, anger, and loss can fuel a comeback What “toxic positivity” is and why it’s harmful to healing The importance of building a support circle that truly sees you Why it’s okay not to be okay — and to say so out loud Storm’s thoughts on love, trust, and dating after narcissistic abuse Actionable Items Find your fire. Rediscover the thing that makes you feel alive — creativity, movement, music, anything. Start small. Tiny checkboxes, such as “take a shower” or “go outside,” can help rebuild a routine. Avoid toxic positivity. Surround yourself with people who let you speak your truth. Reclaim your voice. Whether through writing, music, or therapy, your story matters. Rethink your circle. Be around people who make space for your healing, not your silence. Prioritize self-care. It's not optional — it’s survival. References Mentioned Fluoroquinolone toxicity & black box warnings Cipro-induced mitochondrial damage Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome MTHFR genetic mutation Medicaid’s critical role in medical recovery Neuroplasticity exercises for mental healing Music as somatic and emotional therapy The suicide prevention hotline: 988 (USA & Canada) Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Opening: Medicaid, finances, and the fallout03:00 – Breaking bones and breaking cycles07:00 – Losing her son: “What’s the point anymore?”10:00 – Music therapy, friendships, and laughter return14:00 – Losing both parents, and her father's reaction to Cipro17:00 – Calling out the broken healthcare system21:00 – Toxic positivity and the right to speak your truth25:00 – Self-love, empathy, and protecting your energy28:00 – Advice to women: Red flags, financial abuse, and boundaries33:00 – Letter to her younger self: “Never lose who you are”36:00 – The power of self-approval38:00 – Bonus questions: Favorite word, theme song, and lessons learned Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Love what you hear? Don’t miss a single story. Subscribe to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads wherever you listen to podcasts. ⭐️ Leave us a rating and review — i

In this gripping first part of a two-part conversation, we sit down with Storm, a true survivor who endured a catastrophic spiral of chronic illness, medical gaslighting, emotional abandonment, and mental trauma — and lived to tell the story. This episode is a raw, unfiltered look into the devastating impact of fluoroquinolone toxicity, medical betrayal, and what happens when your support system disappears at the exact moment you need it most. "Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads" is an award-winning podcast, honored as the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads and growing strong. We want to hear from YOU. Leave us written feedback or a voice message at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote of the Episode "Find your fire. Everybody's fire is different—but when life burns you to the ground, that fire is how you rise." — Storm What This Episode Is About Storm's story is an intense mental health journey through hell — one filled with physical collapse, emotional devastation, and being completely alone while navigating one of the most misunderstood pharmaceutical injuries of our time. After being poisoned by a commonly prescribed antibiotic, Storm experienced 83 debilitating symptoms in just 36 hours, triggering a near-complete breakdown of her body and mind. Left to rot by a narcissistic partner, dismissed by doctors, and eventually served divorce papers while bedridden, Storm had every reason to give up. But she didn’t. This episode is an honest and emotional conversation about surviving when survival feels impossible, navigating the fallout of medical abuse, and the gritty, daily work of rebuilding your identity from the ground up. Keywords: fluoroquinolone toxicity, chronic illness, medical gaslighting, narcissistic abuse, divorce, isolation, mental health recovery, female empowerment, resilience, trauma survival Meet Our Guest – Storm Storm is a survivor, a storyteller, and a force of nature. After enduring a catastrophic reaction to a commonly prescribed antibiotic, Storm found herself bedridden, silenced by the medical system, and abandoned by the people who should have stood by her. Her journey took her through the darkest depths of chronic illness, emotional abuse, medical gaslighting, divorce, financial instability, and the heartbreaking estrangement from her only child. But she refused to stay down. Armed with resilience, radical self-talk, and a deep well of inner fire, Storm clawed her way back—physically, mentally, emotionally, and creatively. She transformed pain into purpose, reclaiming her identity as a writer, singer, and woman in full. Through music, manifestation, and unmatched grit, Storm built a new life brick by broken brick. Today, she uses her voice to speak out against medical injustice, normalize hard conversations about mental health, and remind others that it’s never too late to start over. She isn’t just weathering the storm. She is the storm. Key Takeaways How fluoroquinolone antibiotics can cause long-term neurological and physiological damage Why narcissistic abuse and emotional abandonment amplify mental health struggles The role of manifestation, mindset, and micro-goals in recovery How to reclaim your identity after medical trauma and relationship loss Why medical gaslighting is a real and dangerous experience, especially for women Actionable Items Ask questions about your prescriptions — Know what drug class you're being given, especially if it's a fluoroquinolone. Track your symptoms — Even if doctors dismiss you, document everything. Join a support group — Seek out communities that understand what you're going through. Start a tiny goals journal — Storm began her comeback with daily goals like “stand for 10 minutes.” Focus on one fire — Whether it's music, art, writing, or walks, find what lights you up and lean into it. References Mentioned Cipro and fluoroquinolone toxicity Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome MTHFR genetic mutation Functional medicine and gut-brain connection Returnship programs for women in tech and marketing ReverbNation music platform Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Meet Storm00:47 – “This is going to be a sad story, but there's a happy ending”02:00 – Storm’s medical collapse begins06:00 – The Cipro connection and tendon rupture risks10:30 – Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and fluoroquinolone dangers13:00 – The loneliness of chronic illness and abandonment17:00 – Divorce while bedridden22:00 – Storm’s son and mental health collapse28:00 – How isolation led to internal healing30:00 – Music, manifestation, and the comeback begins35:00 – From bedridden to rebuilding a career37:00 – Next: Finding her voice again Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Love what you hear? Subscribe to “Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads” on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. ⭐️ Leave us a rating and review to help others find the s

Episode Summary This powerful episode features Dr. Paul Corona, MD — known as The Doctor for Depression — who joins hosts G-Rex and Dirty Skittles for a deep conversation on mental health, suicide prevention, and the future of integrative care. With over 30 years of clinical experience and a mission rooted in compassion, Dr. Paul shares real-life stories, expert strategies, and a revolutionary mind-body approach that is changing lives. We also take a look at how outdated medical education and mental health stigma are failing patients — and what Dr. Paul is doing to train the next generation of doctors. 🎉 We’re proud to be the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast — with over 2 million downloads! 💬 We want to hear from you! Please share your feedback or leave us a voice message at https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a. 🧠 Quote of the Episode “Mental illness is a medical problem, a neurological problem in our brains, and it’s real.” – Dr. Paul Corona Meet Our Guest: Dr. Paul Corona, MD Dr. Paul is a trailblazer in the field of mental health who pivoted from traditional family medicine to develop an innovative and deeply personalized approach to healing. Known for his “Mind-Body Healing” method, Dr. Paul treats emotional distress as a whole-body experience—addressing neurochemical imbalances, lifestyle, and trauma, rather than masking symptoms. He's also the author of Healing the Mind and Body (Volumes 1–3) and The Corona Protocol—a groundbreaking book tackling addiction, suicide, school shootings, and more through a scientific yet human-centered lens. 🔗 Website: https://drpaulcoronamd.com/ 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drpaulcoronamd/ 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpaulcoronamd/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-corona-b090669a/ 📺 The Dr. Paul Show (YouTube & Roku): search “thedrpaulshow” as one word Keywords Mental health, suicide prevention, integrative psychiatry, mind-body medicine, Dr. Paul Corona, depression treatment, holistic mental health, anxiety, healing stories, trauma, mental illness stigma, personalized mental health care, medication and therapy, neurochemical imbalance Key Takeaways Mental illness is not weakness. It’s a treatable medical condition rooted in neurochemistry. Pills aren't always the answer. Effective mental health care must be personalized and holistic. Stigma kills. Many patients suffer in silence or are misdiagnosed due to outdated practices. Rural areas are suffering. Lack of access and education worsens the crisis. There is always hope. Dr. Paul’s mission is to restore that hope, one patient at a time. Actionable Items Don’t accept “a little better” — push for full recovery. Seek doctors who listen, not rush. Explore various treatment modalities, including medication, therapy, movement, and rest. Advocate for yourself — keep looking until you find the proper support. Read The Corona Protocol for guidance on healing and advocacy. Episode Chapters 00:00:06 – Intro & Welcome 00:01:01 – Meet Dr. Paul 00:02:43 – Mental Illness is Real: Fighting Stigma 00:04:12 – Dr. Paul’s Passion & Path 00:06:07 – About The Corona Protocol 00:09:10 – Why Doctors Miss the Mark 00:12:51 – Physical Health & Mental Health: The Connection 00:18:05 – The Power of Listening in Medicine 00:22:15 – Healing, Access & Hope 00:30:00 – Global Mental Health Crisis 00:35:00 – Self-Care for Caregivers 00:42:00 – About the Dr. Paul Show & Final Thoughts Resources & References 📘 Healing the Mind and Body Vols 1–3 – by Dr. Paul Corona 📘 The Corona Protocol – A scientifically grounded guide to mental wellness 📺 The Dr. Paul Show – www.youtube.com/@thedrpaulshow 📞 Dr. Paul’s Office: (949) 481-0118 Subscribe, Rate & Review! Love this episode? Subscribe to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads on your favorite platform, and leave us a review! It helps others find the show and join our mental health movement. 🌐 Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews Connect with Us 🌐 Website: https://www.goesoninourheads.net 📧 Newsletter: https://sh-t-that-goes-on-in-our-heads.ck.page/profile #ShitThatGoesOnInOurHeads #MentalHealthPodcast #DrPaulCorona #MentalHealthAwareness #TheDrPaulShow #MindBodyMedicine #HolisticHealth #DepressionSupport #SuicidePrevention #HealingStories #EndTheStigma #Neurochemistry #TraumaInformedCare #MentalWellness #AnxietyRelief #DirtySkittles #Grex #Podmatch #PodcastLife #HealthPodcast #BreakTheStigma ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and

Kim Korte, creator of the Sensory Sync Method, joins us to discuss how understanding the "ingredients" of our emotions can transform the way we live, heal, and connect. From personal betrayal to emotional empowerment, Kim’s story is both relatable and transformative. She introduces listeners to the concept of interoception—our internal sense of emotion—and how to use it to reclaim emotional agency. “We construct our emotions, and understanding the ingredients can give us autonomy over our lives.” 💬 Share your thoughts or voice message: castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a 🎧 Over 2M downloads | 2024 People’s Choice & Best Mental Health Podcast (Women in Podcasting Awards) Keywords for SEO interoception, emotional intelligence, mental health podcast, emotional awareness, emotion management, personal growth, neuroscience, self-awareness, emotional healing, Kim Korte Meet the Guest: Kim Korte Kim is a Perception and Emotion Management Strategist and creator of the Sensory Sync Method™. This unique framework teaches people how to break down emotions like recipes—identifying, adjusting, and managing the “ingredients” that shape their internal world. Book: Yucky Yummy Savory Sweet: Understanding the Flavors of Emotions Website: sensorysyncmethod.com IG: @thekimkorte LinkedIn: Kim Korte YouTube: The Kim Korte Channel Episode Takeaways Emotions function like recipes—with changeable ingredients Interoception helps us “catch” feelings before reacting Writing unlocks subconscious insight and emotional clarity You can’t feel joy and anger at the same time—so choose wisely Learning to love the unlovable frees up emotional space Action Items Practice interoception: Tune into physical sensations tied to emotion Use journaling for subconscious clarity—no editing Identify emotional triggers by labeling your feelings Redirect focus toward what brings joy or relief Dive into Kim’s Sensory Sync Method™ for structure and support Timestamps [00:00] Welcome & Intro [00:02] Meet Kim Korte [00:06] What is Interoception? [00:12] Emotions = Recipes [00:20] How Past Trauma Shapes Present Feelings [00:30] Managing Emotions with Intention [00:40] Writing as Therapy [00:50] Wrap-Up & Resources Referenced in This Episode Yucky Yummy Savory Sweet by Kim Korte How Emotions Are Made: The Secret Life of the Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett Subscribe, Rate & Review Don’t miss future episodes! ✅ Subscribe 🌟 Leave a Review #MentalHealthPodcast #EmotionalAwareness #HealingJourney #SensorySyncMethod #WritingTherapy #Interoception #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfCare #Mindfulness #KimKorte #Neuroscience #PersonalGrowth #DirtySkittles #GRex #Podmatch #MentalHealthMatters #NormalizeTherapy ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This powerful episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads brings you the raw, honest, and resilient story of Jennifer Ginty—entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and founder of My Moody Monster. Jen lives with Complex PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder stemming from childhood trauma, and she shares how she finally faced her emotional pain, built a healing team, and created tools to help kids and adults express emotions in healthy ways. We are proud to share that our podcast is the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast—with over 2 million downloads worldwide. Please help us continue to grow and improve: leave your feedback (written or as a voice message) at https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a. Mental Health Quote of the Episode "Control isn’t necessary for life. You don’t need control to live a happy, healthy life." – Jennifer Ginty What You’ll Hear in This Episode In this episode, Jennifer opens up about years of postponing her healing journey, confronting her abuser, and navigating the deep emotional weight of trauma, motherhood, and identity loss. We explore: What triggered her decision to heal finally Her experience with inpatient care and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Creating My Moody Monster, a tool for emotional regulation How generational trauma and people-pleasing behaviors held her back Raising children with mental health challenges The importance of creating a personalized support team SEO Keywords: trauma recovery, emotional healing, PTSD, mental health podcast, childhood trauma, therapy journey, DBT, emotional regulation, parenting mental health, My Moody Monster, coping skills for kids, mental wellness, breaking the stigma, women’s mental health Meet Jennifer Ginty Jennifer is the founder of My Moody Monster, a therapeutic plush toy designed to help children express emotions through physical play. Diagnosed with Complex PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder, Jennifer built a support team, embraced inpatient therapy at McLean Hospital, and now shares her story to help others begin their healing. She also hosts the When Not Yet Becomes Right Now podcast—born from the realization that the right time to heal is now. Website: https://www.mymoodymonster.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mymoodymonster/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymoodymonster BlueSky: @mymoodymonster.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mymoodymonster TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@mymoodymonster Key Takeaways Healing takes readiness, not permission — It’s okay to say “not yet,” until your mind says “right now.” Coping skills must be practiced before you need them — Just like muscles, emotional regulation tools require repetition. Kids need emotional tools too — Jennifer’s My Moody Monster is a creative, tactile way to help children express and understand emotions. Actionable Tools DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) — Focus on mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. Build your therapy team — Don’t settle for the wrong therapist. Speed-date until you find the right fit. Coping Skill Tools — Try frozen washcloths, modeling clay with essential oils, or tools like My Moody Monster to interrupt intense emotional spirals. Chapters & Time Stamps [00:00] Intro: Welcome to our award-winning show [01:10] Jennifer’s journey begins – Trauma, college, and “not yet” moments [02:57] The breaking point: Bankruptcy, identity loss, and finally saying “right now” [06:38] Confronting her abuser and community shame [10:09] Motherhood and mental health—her son’s early suicidal ideation [15:57] Barriers to mental health care access and insurance frustrations [20:52] DBT & McLean Hospital: Building her mental health toolkit [26:05] Real-time coping tools (box breathing, frozen towels, modeling clay) [30:22] The birth of Moody: Creating an emotional outlet [34:06] The love letter: Why Moody is a symbol of hope and self-compassion [36:51] Learning to accept love and let go of control [40:37] Bonus Questions: Her anxiety theme song, tattoos, and the word she hates References & Mentions McLean Hospital – Premier mental health hospital: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/ DBT Therapy Overview: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/dialectical-behavior-therapy Crayola Model Magic Clay – Great tactile tool: https://shop.crayola.com/modeling/model-magic My Moody Monster: https://www.mymoodymonster.com Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Enjoying Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback fuels our mission. You can also leave us a message at: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews Let’s continue breaking the silence around mental health—together. #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #CPTSDRecovery #MyMoody

What does it really mean to choose peace—especially when it means letting go of family? In the final part of Susan Snow’s gripping three-part series, we witness the hard-won clarity that comes after trauma, truth-telling, and transformation. This conversation dives into toxic family dynamics, radical self-worth, and the freeing power of walking away from what no longer serves your mental health. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads and a loyal global audience. We’re breaking stigma, one honest story at a time. We’d love your feedback. Leave us a written message or voice note at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a "Just because they gave birth to you doesn’t mean you owe them a relationship—especially when that relationship threatens your peace." — Susan Snow. Episode Summary: This episode is about confronting hard truths, establishing healthy boundaries, and the emotional freedom that comes from prioritizing our mental health over lifelong dysfunction. Susan Snow reflects on the moment she was written out of her mother’s will—and why she still chose peace. She shares how understanding her self-worth allowed her to walk away without hate, guilt, or shame. Susan and the hosts explore how generational trauma, guilt-based parenting, and enabling behaviors can trap us in cycles of self-doubt. With courage, grace, and deep empathy, Susan discusses walking away from a toxic parent, standing in her truth, and becoming the mother, partner, and coach she always hoped to be. SEO Keywords: mental health boundaries, toxic family relationships, PTSD recovery, trauma coaching, choosing peace, mother-daughter estrangement, emotional freedom, forgiveness and healing, Susan Snow, journaling for mental health Meet Susan Snow Susan Snow is a courageous and heartfelt speaker whose life story shines as a beacon of healing and hope. At just 17, Susan’s world was shattered when her father, LAPD Detective Thomas C. Williams, was ambushed and murdered on Halloween night in 1985. That moment changed everything, pulling her into the depths of grief and trauma. In the years that followed, Susan faced PTSD, loss, and the long, complicated process of rebuilding her life. But instead of letting the darkness define her, she turned her pain into purpose. By embracing vulnerability and speaking her truth, she has shown that healing is possible—even after unimaginable events. Today, Susan is the Author of a profoundly moving book that reminds us of two powerful truths: life can change in an instant, and recovery is always within reach. Whether speaking on stage or connecting through virtual events, Susan doesn’t just share her story—she invites people into it. She creates space for others to see themselves, to grieve, to forgive, and to find their own resilience. Her signature talks, “Other Side of the Gun: Hope Through the Journey of Grief, PTSD, and Empowerment” and “Forgiveness vs. Forgetting,” go beyond inspiration. They offer honest guidance, compassion, and a roadmap for choosing hope over pain. Connect with Susan:Website: https://susansnowspeaks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susan_snow1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/SusanSnowTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@susansnow1lifecoachYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/susansnowspeaks2023 3 Key Takeaways: Boundaries are an act of self-respect, not betrayal—especially when they protect your mental health. Self-worth is learned through action, not just affirmation. You can love someone and still choose to walk away. Actionable Items: Practice gratitude journaling each morning—focus on 3 things you’re thankful for and why. Protect your peace by naming what feels toxic, even if others don’t understand. Use curiosity instead of judgment when reacting to others—you never know what pain they’re carrying. Chapters & Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Part 3Susan returns for the final part of her mental health story. [01:00] The Will and the Wake-Up CallSusan finds out she’s been cut from her mother’s will—and why it brought clarity, not conflict. [06:00] Walking Away Without HateA powerful reflection on choosing peace, not pain, even with a parent. [13:00] “I Am My Father’s Daughter”Susan shares how her dad’s legacy guides her work and her identity today. [20:00] Helping Others Through Her PurposeSusan recounts helping a young LGBTQ+ father reconnect with gratitude and healing. [28:00] Healing Is Not LinearGrief, healing, and joy are allowed to coexist. Susan explains why. [34:00] The Future of Healing and SpeakingSusan’s message to anyone feeling stuck: You are not alone, and your story has power. [41:00] Lightning Round FunTheme songs, favorite words, and emotional takeaways. [42:50] How to Find Susan + Final WordsLinks, book info, and what’s next for Susan Snow. References & Resources: Susan Snow’s book: The Other Side of the Gun: My J

Some stories leave you breathless. This is one of them. In Part 2 of our raw, deeply human conversation with Susan Snow, we continue exploring how trauma reshapes a life—and how healing is always possible with the proper support, tools, and truth. Susan opens up about living with PTSD, learning to trust again, and the small but powerful steps that began her transformation. Welcome back to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads—your space for honest, gritty, and healing conversations around mental health. We’re proud to be the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads and counting. We’d love your feedback!Visit https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a to leave us a message or written input. "Healing is not an ego thing. It's the bravest, most necessary thing you'll ever do." — Susan Snow. Episode Summary: In this emotionally rich second installment, Susan Snow shares the real work of healing from complex PTSD, extreme trauma, and generational wounds. After a tragic and violent loss changed her world at 17, Susan opens up about her years-long battle with anxiety, insomnia, and panic—and how finding the right therapist finally gave her hope. This episode covers critical mental health topics, including trauma recovery, journaling for sleep, breathwork, emotional boundaries, forgiveness, and how to build a support system when you feel entirely alone. Whether you're just beginning your healing journey or helping someone else through theirs, Susan’s story is your reminder that hope is real—and transformation is possible. SEO Keywords: PTSD recovery, trauma healing, journaling and sleep, panic attacks, breathwork therapy, finding the right therapist, mental health podcast, grief recovery, trauma coaching, emotional boundaries, Susan Snow Meet Susan Snow Susan Snow is a courageous and heartfelt speaker whose life story shines as a beacon of healing and hope. At just 17, Susan’s world was shattered when her father, LAPD Detective Thomas C. Williams, was ambushed and murdered on Halloween night in 1985. That moment changed everything, pulling her into the depths of grief and trauma. In the years that followed, Susan faced PTSD, loss, and the long, complicated process of rebuilding her life. But instead of letting the darkness define her, she turned her pain into purpose. By embracing vulnerability and speaking her truth, she has shown that healing is possible—even after unimaginable events. Today, Susan is the Author of a profoundly moving book that reminds us of two powerful truths: life can change in an instant, and recovery is always within reach. Whether speaking on stage or connecting through virtual events, Susan doesn’t just share her story—she invites people into it. She creates space for others to see themselves, to grieve, to forgive, and to find their own resilience. Her signature talks, “Other Side of the Gun: Hope Through the Journey of Grief, PTSD, and Empowerment” and “Forgiveness vs. Forgetting,” go beyond inspiration. They offer honest guidance, compassion, and a roadmap for choosing hope over pain. Connect with Susan:Website: https://susansnowspeaks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susan_snow1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/SusanSnowTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@susansnow1lifecoachYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/susansnowspeaks2023 Key Takeaways: Healing is a personal journey, not a one-size-fits-all process—you must find the right therapist for your trauma. Journaling can be a game-changer in managing anxiety and improving sleep, especially when done before bed. Boundaries, forgiveness, and coaching are powerful tools in healing both yourself and your relationships. Actionable Items: Try expressive journaling nightly—write without censoring or editing, especially before bed. Practice box breathing or tapping to manage panic attacks and regulate your nervous system. Interview your therapist—ask about their specialties and be willing to walk away if it’s not the right fit. Episode Chapters & Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome + Recap of Part 1G-Rex and Dirty Skittles introduce Part 2 of Susan’s story. [01:00] When Therapy Finally WorkedSusan explains how a therapist specializing in trauma and PTSD changed her life. [06:00] Journaling to Sleep AgainSusan shares how nighttime journaling helped her escape anxiety-induced insomnia. [09:00] Breathwork, Tapping & Nervous System RegulationEarly tools Susan learned that helped control panic attacks and stress. [17:00] Rewriting Patterns: Coaching and BoundariesSusan’s mindset shift through coaching and powerful conversations about forgiveness. [23:00] From Pain to PurposeHow healing led Susan to write her memoir and step into her life’s mission. [35:00] Facing the Fear of Telling Her StorySusan talks about the fear of publishing her book—and doing it anyway. References & Resources Mentioned: Susan Snow’s website: https://susansnowspeaks.com/ 988 Suici

Welcome to Season 13 of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, the award-winning podcast that normalizes mental health conversations with raw honesty, laughter, and connection. This episode kicks off a robust three-part conversation with Susan Snow, a courageous and heartfelt speaker whose story embodies resilience, forgiveness, and hope in the face of trauma. At just 17, Susan’s world was forever changed when her father, LAPD Detective Thomas C. Williams, was ambushed and murdered. She faced PTSD, grief, and unimaginable loss, but ultimately chose to transform her pain into purpose. We’re proud to be the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads worldwide. We’d love your feedback on this episode. Please visit https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a to share your thoughts or leave us a voice message. Mental Health Quote"I feel like that night I lost my dad, I lost my mom too—but in the end, I chose not to live as a victim. I chose to live with hope." – Susan Snow What This Episode is About In this first part of Susan’s journey, we explore the lasting impact of sudden loss, the invisible weight of PTSD, and the survival instincts that shaped her teenage years. Susan’s story highlights the importance of mental health awareness, resilience after trauma, and the lifelong pursuit of healing. This episode serves as a potent reminder that life can change in an instant, but recovery and hope are always attainable. Keywords for SEO: Susan Snow, mental health podcast, PTSD recovery, resilience after trauma, grief and healing, LAPD, forgiveness, empowerment, emotional resilience, mental health awareness, hope after loss Meet Susan Snow Susan Snow is a courageous and heartfelt speaker whose life story shines as a beacon of healing and hope. At 17, Susan’s life was torn apart when her father, LAPD Detective Thomas C. Williams, was ambushed and murdered. In the years that followed, she faced PTSD, loss, and the long road of rebuilding her life. Rather than staying in the shadows, Susan found her strength in vulnerability and turned her pain into purpose. Today, Susan is the Author of a profoundly moving book and a nationally recognized speaker. Through her signature talks—“Other Side of the Gun: Hope Through the Journey of Grief, PTSD, and Empowerment” and “Forgiveness vs. Forgetting”—Susan shares her story to help others discover resilience, forgiveness, and the power of choosing hope. Website: https://susansnowspeaks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susan_snow1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/SusanSnow TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@susansnow1lifecoach YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/susansnowspeaks2023 Key Takeaways Trauma can reshape our lives, but healing is always possible with the proper support. Vulnerability and honesty are powerful tools for recovery and connection. Choosing hope and resilience over victimhood creates space for forgiveness and growth. Actionable Items from This Episode Write down one way you can create a safe space for someone in your life who may be grieving or struggling. Consider seeking therapy or support if you’ve experienced trauma—healing begins with asking for help. Practice one act of forgiveness this week, whether toward yourself or someone else. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Season 13: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles kick off with energy and purpose. 01:00 – Introducing Susan Snow: Susan shares her background and the tragic event that shaped her life. 05:00 – The Day Everything Changed: The night her father was ambushed and murdered. 12:00 – Navigating Trauma in Silence: Growing up with PTSD in a time when mental health wasn’t discussed. 20:00 – Coping, Masking, and Survival: How Susan built an emotional mask to get through her teenage years. 30:00 – Breaking Cycles and Finding Purpose: Susan’s determination to parent differently and rewrite her story. 40:00 – Closing Reflections: Lessons from pain, resilience, and the ongoing process of healing. References Susan Snow’s Website: https://susansnowspeaks.com/ Book & Speaking Engagements: Available via her website Mental Health Resources: https://988lifeline.org Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Don’t miss the rest of Susan’s powerful story in this three-part series. Subscribe to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads for more inspiring conversations. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform or share your thoughts directly at:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #GriefRecovery #PTSDRecovery #HealingJourney #Resilience #Forgiveness #HopeAfterLoss #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #PodcastCommunity #AwardWinningPodcast #TraumaHealing #SusanSnow #MentalHealthSupport #PodcastSeason13 #BleavNetwork #HealingThroughStories #ShitThatGoesOnInOurHeads ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf

In this heartfelt Season 12 ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles reflect on a season filled with powerful mental health conversations—from navigating grief and trauma to celebrating resilience, growth, and the healing power of laughter. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or just discovered us, this recap hits home with lessons that stay with you long after the mic cuts off. We’re proud to be the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the Best Mental Health Podcast at the 2024 Women in Podcasting Awards 🏆🏆. With over 2 million downloads and counting, Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads continues to break the stigma one conversation at a time. 💬 Got thoughts about this episode? We’d love your feedback—drop us a written message or voice note here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a 🧠 Mental Health Quote of the Week "You don’t have to fix everything in one day. Whatever helps you get to the next minute, the next hour, or the next day—do that." — G-Rex What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeThis Season 12 finale is packed with powerful reflections on mental health, emotional healing, and personal growth from some of the most moving conversations we've had all year. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles revisit each guest from the season, sharing real talk and raw takeaways for anyone dealing with anxiety, grief, burnout, trauma, depression, or recovery. You’ll hear firsthand stories about surviving suicidal ideation, overcoming addiction, embracing journaling, healing from childhood trauma, and navigating perimenopause with compassion. The episode also explores emotional regulation, boundary setting, plant medicine experiences, and the caregiver perspective on mental illness. With a mix of deep insights and lighthearted laughter, this is a must-listen for those seeking emotional resilience, healing tools, and relatable voices in the mental health space. 🎧 Meet Our Season 12 Guests & What They Taught Us Kate Key Takeaways: Burnout is a message—listen before it screams. Your brain and heart must work together for true well-being. Action Items: Set a daily check-in to evaluate your emotional boundaries. Try heart-focused breathing as a grounding practice. Tim Key Takeaways: Masculinity and vulnerability can (and should) coexist. Healing yourself is essential before guiding others. Action Items: Reflect on your self-worth beyond your profession. Have an honest check-in with a male friend or mentor. Richard Key Takeaways: Addiction recovery is possible through love and purpose. Creating safe spaces saves lives. Action Items: Support a local recovery center by volunteering or making a donation. Begin a daily gratitude practice focused on your healing journey. Marie Key Takeaways: Grief doesn’t end love—it evolves it. You can choose light, even in darkness. Action Items: Write a letter to someone you’ve lost. Begin a ritual (like lighting a candle) to honor grief. Melissa Key Takeaways: Plant medicine can help unlock buried trauma. True healing requires trust and surrender. Action Items: Research trauma-informed ayahuasca retreats. Start a journal to record your emotional blocks and breakthroughs. Beth & Noel Key Takeaways: DBT and mindfulness are powerful in long-term recovery. Caregiving impacts mental health—and deserves its support. Action Items: Create a self-care routine for both partners. Explore caregiver-specific support groups and DBT tools. Amita Key Takeaways: Menopause is a new chapter, not the end of your story. Mindfulness and holistic care help women reclaim this stage. Action Items: Visit https://nourishdoc.com for curated wellness support. Track your symptoms mindfully using journaling or a dedicated app. Leigh Key Takeaways: Journaling is one of the most accessible healing tools. Expressive writing brings clarity and emotional release. Action Items: Begin a “3-minute check-in” journal daily. Use emojis or color codes to reflect your mood. Emily Key Takeaways: Surviving trauma gives you the power to support others. Speaking out is the first step to breaking stigma. Action Items: Learn more about the 988 Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org Share that number with others in your life—it could save someone. Special Shout-Out: Women Supporting WomenLight Your Story, Fuel Your FireMeet Amy Nubson of Nufire Collective—where brand clarity meets soul strategy. Her “Rebrand You” framework empowers individuals to unlock their voice and own their worth.🎟️ Don’t miss her virtual workshop: Exploring Your Origin Story on August 20🌐 Learn More: https://nufirecollective.com/ From the Hosts: G-Rex & Dirty SkittlesHost Reflections: Dirty Skittles shares how a 30-minute paint exercise became a life-changing anxiety tool—and how she’s found healing through curiosity, WWI love letters, and gaming. G-Rex opens up about the lifesaving role of boundaries, therapy, laughter, and even a daily raccoon video habit. The duo gets honest about podcasting challenges, co-hosting wins, and the episodes that

Trigger Warning: This episode includes open and honest discussions about suicide attempts, mental illness, emotional abuse, and childhood trauma. Please listen with care. In this Part 2 of a 2-part series, we reconnect with Emily as she shares what life has looked like since her last suicide attempt—unpacking what real recovery feels like when it’s layered with parenting, relationship trauma, childhood emotional neglect, and navigating the pressure to “look okay” on the outside. This is a story about fighting to stay, even when your brain tries to convince you otherwise. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads across more than 100 countries. We’re here to normalize mental health conversations through laughter, truth-telling, and a whole lot of heart. We want to hear your thoughts on this episode: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a You can leave a voice message or a written note. We listen to all of them. “I’m not proud of my story because it’s pretty—it’s ugly. But I’m proud I’m still here.” — Emily What This Episode is About Emily opens up about what came next after the suicide attempts, what healing looks like on the ground level, and the daily work it takes to quiet the internalized voices of shame. She talks about masking, being in survival mode, and the confusion of being a high-functioning person with severe depression. You’ll also hear about her struggles in romantic relationships, what it felt like to have emotional abuse reinforced in adulthood, and how becoming a parent inspired her to change the narrative in her family line. SEO Keywords: Suicide attempt recovery, high-functioning depression, emotional abuse, trauma-informed parenting, mental health support, post-attempt healing, invisible pain, self-worth, generational trauma, PTSD recovery, inner child work, coping with shame, childhood emotional neglect Meet Our Guest: Emily Emily is a trauma survivor, a nurse, a mother, and a woman doing the hard work to heal while still showing up for everyone else. In Part 1, she shared her early struggles with mental illness, beginning with cutting at age 11 and two suicide attempts before she turned 21. In this episode, she takes us deeper into the “after”—into the quiet, messy, nonlinear work of recovery. She explains how her trauma carried into her adult relationships, how she learned to identify emotional abuse in real-time, and how she’s slowly starting to believe she is worthy of being loved without condition. Emily’s story is not tied up in a neat little bow—and that’s precisely why it matters. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmiewillyy/ 3 Key Takeaways You can look “fine” and still be in survival mode. High-functioning depression is real. Unresolved childhood trauma can impact every adult relationship. But awareness is power. Recovery is daily work. It’s not a one-time decision; it’s a commitment to stay. Actionable Items Use grounding tools when shame kicks in—like naming your feeling out loud or writing it down. Audit your relationships for emotional safety: Do they help you grow or keep you in patterns? If you’re struggling, reach out to someone. You don’t have to wait until you're in crisis to ask for help. Chapters & Time Stamps [00:01:22] Living With the Aftermath Emily reflects on what life looked like after her second attempt and why she thought she had to act “fine.” [00:04:45] The Masking We Learn The dangers of pretending everything is okay, even when it’s not—and how people missed the signs. [00:09:12] Surviving Toxic Love Emily shares her experience with emotionally abusive relationships and how it mirrored her childhood. [00:21:30] Parenting as a Cycle Breaker What she’s doing differently to raise her daughter with emotional honesty and safety. [00:29:55] Healing Isn’t Pretty The real, gritty parts of staying alive—and staying connected to yourself. References 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – https://988lifeline.org The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo BetterHelp Online Therapy – https://www.betterhelp.com Mental Health America – https://mhanational.org Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or drop your feedback at: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaRecovery #SuicideAttemptSurvivor #Grex #DirtySkittles #PostAttemptRecovery #BreakTheStigma #ParentingWithTrauma #HealingIsMessy #RealConversations #GenerationalHealing #InvisiblePain #YouMatter #PodcastForHealing #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay #ShameResilience #EmotionalAbuseAwareness #Podmatch #HighFunctioningDepression ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing ment

Trigger Warning: This episode includes honest discussions of depression, self-harm, suicide attempts, trauma, and emotional neglect. Please listen with care. In this Part 1 of a 2-part series, we sit down with Emily, a brave and thoughtful guest who opens up about her early struggles with depression, self-harm, and suicide attempts—and how she’s navigating healing while parenting, working in healthcare, and showing up for herself. This episode is packed with vulnerability, insight, and hope. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads across more than 100 countries. We’re on a mission to normalize mental health conversations by keeping it real, raw, and full of heart. We’d love to hear your feedback on this episode: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Leave us a voice message or written note—your input helps us maintain this space as honest and supportive as possible. “I didn’t want to die—I just didn’t want to feel the way I was feeling anymore.” – Emily What This Episode is About Emily shares her deeply personal mental health journey—from childhood trauma and generational depression to two suicide attempts before the age of 21. She opens up about masking her pain, learning to recognize her triggers, and trying to raise her daughter differently, with emotional safety and open conversation at the core. Topics covered include: Surviving major depression Suicide prevention and recovery Parenting with trauma awareness The long tail of childhood emotional neglect The importance of support systems and safe spaces SEO Keywords: Mental health journey, depression survival story, suicide prevention, parenting with trauma, mental health awareness, generational trauma, triggers, healing from abuse, recovery, living with depression, emotional support, self-worth, 988 lifeline Meet Our Guest: Emily Emily is a registered nurse, a survivor, and a mom raising her daughter with the emotional validation she never received as a child. Her mental health journey began at just 11 years old, when she first experienced the weight of emotional pain without words to explain it. Self-harm and isolation followed, eventually leading to two suicide attempts—one during her freshman year of college and another at 20 years old. Despite surviving those moments, Emily was met with silence and shame instead of support. She speaks candidly about being the only young person in a psychiatric unit, about nurses treating her with judgment instead of compassion, and about the decades-long work of learning to feel worthy of love. Her healing is ongoing. And she doesn't pretend otherwise. Emily also talks about being the child of young parents who were navigating their own recovery and mental health challenges—and how that shaped her understanding of love, trust, and emotional connection. Today, she’s raising her daughter with intention, focusing on emotional safety, validating feelings, and breaking generational cycles. She’s also working in healthcare, where she uses her lived experience to bring compassion and awareness into patient care. Her story is messy, raw, honest, and incredibly powerful. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmiewillyy/ Key Takeaways Healing is not linear. You can still struggle and still be healing—those truths can coexist. Emotional neglect leaves deep scars. Silence around mental health in childhood often echoes into adulthood. Showing up imperfectly is still powerful, especially for those we love. Actionable Items Save the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in your phone—and share it with someone who might need it. Talk to your kids about emotions at an early age. Validate their feelings now to build trust later. Pay attention to your triggers. Recognizing them is the first step to healing. Chapters & Time Stamps [00:01:41] Emily’s Why What inspired her to share her story publicly, and how a surprising message from a friend changed everything. [00:04:25] The First Cut The moment at age 11 that started it all—and how her mother’s silence shaped years of hiding. [00:06:56] Survival in Silence Emily’s first overdose in college, the ICU stay, and her terrifying experience in the psych unit. [00:08:48] The Shift of Motherhood Why having a daughter didn’t cure her depression, but changed her purpose. [00:24:13] Breaking Generational Cycles How Emily’s learning to be the emotionally available parent she never had. [00:32:00] What Healing Looks Like Now The daily habits, support system, and honest reflection it takes to keep moving forward. References 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – https://988lifeline.org The Trevor Project – https://www.thetrevorproject.org BetterHelp Therapy – https://www.betterhelp.com Stories of Hope Project (via Greg Eaves) Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring and honest conversations. Rate and review us on you

In this powerful episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, we explore the healing power of journaling with our incredible guest, Leigh Shulman — writer, mentor, and founder of The Inspired Writer Community. Leigh shares her deeply personal journey through mental health challenges and how putting pen to paper became her anchor through grief, uncertainty, and transformation. Whether you're new to journaling or a seasoned writer, this episode offers raw truth, helpful techniques, and inspiration for healing through words. We’re proud to be the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women In Podcasting Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast. With over 2 million downloads, we’re here because of YOU, and we want to hear from you! Please share your feedback or leave us a voice message at: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a "Writing is not about being perfect—it's about being present with your truth." – Leigh Shulman Mental Health Keywords for SEO: Journaling therapy, writing as healing, expressive writing, mental health podcast, therapeutic journaling, impostor syndrome, perfectionism, trauma recovery, writing for wellness, self-reflection, women’s mental health, emotional processing, self-care habits, storytelling therapy, mindfulness writing Meet Our Guest: Leigh Shulman Leigh Shulman is a writer, international speaker, and mentor who’s helped thousands of aspiring authors take control of their stories. With over 20 years of experience, she created The Inspired Writer Community and wrote the bestselling book The Writer's Roadmap: Paving the Way to Your Ideal Writing Life. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Longreads, Guernica, and other notable publications. Leigh lives in Argentina with her family, and proudly does not like dulce de leche. Website: https://leighshulman.com X/Twitter: http://twitter.com/theleighshulman Instagram: http://instagram.com/theleighshulman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighshulman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighshulman/ BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/theleighshulman.bsky.social Key Takeaways Writing is Therapy – Journaling can be as healing as talk therapy. It’s a safe space to express, reflect, and release. Small Moments Matter – Often, it’s not the significant events but the quiet realizations that lead to growth. There Are No Rules – Your journal doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be yours. Actionable Items Start journaling with no rules—write for 10 minutes without editing or overthinking. Create a digital or photo “joy album” to capture what makes you happy daily visually. If you're stuck, voice-record your thoughts and use transcription tools to reflect later. Chapters & Timestamps [00:01:39] Leigh’s mental health journey through storytelling and writing [00:03:36] The tomato moment — how small shifts in perspective lead to big change [00:06:43] Why gratitude journaling and capturing joy visually heals [00:10:37] Writing without rules — and why you don’t need to reread it [00:24:34] Facing imposter syndrome and perfectionism as a writer [00:33:28] Why sharing your story is a revolutionary act [00:41:23] Leigh’s self-care routine for mental wellness [00:46:32] Lightning round: Anxiety's theme song, self-love rituals, and advice for her younger self References The Writer’s Roadmap by Leigh Shulman The War of Art by Steven Pressfield Julia Cameron’s “Morning Pages” TED Talk on the brain’s negativity bias Subscribe, Rate & Review! If this episode moved you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Every rating helps us reach more listeners who need to hear these stories. Leave a review directly at: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews We’d love your thoughts or a voice message at: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #JournalingForHealing #ExpressiveWriting #SelfCareDaily #WomenInPodcasting #PodcastAwardWinner #TherapyThroughWriting #AnxietyRelief #WritingForTherapy #TraumaHealing #WellnessTools #PodcastCommunity #LeighShulman #WritersRoadmap #InspiredWriterCommunity #HealingThroughCreativity ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goeso

Today’s guest, Amita Sharma, shares her deeply personal experience with perimenopause in the corporate world, the mental health toll it took, and how she turned that struggle into NourishDoc, a global wellness platform for women 40 and over. This award-winning episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads brings you a powerful, eye-opening conversation about the intersection of menopause, mindfulness, and mental health. With over 2 million downloads, we are proud to be the 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast. We want to hear from YOU. Drop us a voice message or leave your thoughts at:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote:"The sooner you embrace yourself, the sooner you start living your truth. Otherwise, you're just wearing a mask." — Amita Sharma What This Episode CoversAmita opens up about the invisible toll of perimenopause, from brain fog and depression to sleep deprivation and lost libido—all while trying to survive in a high-stakes, male-dominated tech career. We explore how mindfulness, acupuncture, holistic nutrition, and boundary-setting became her survival tools, and how that journey became the seed for NourishDoc. This comprehensive wellness platform helps thousands of midlife women worldwide. SEO Keywords:Menopause mental health, perimenopause anxiety, midlife women support, mindfulness for menopause, holistic wellness, mental health for women over 40, Amita Sharma, NourishDoc Meet Our Guest: Amita SharmaA former high-tech executive turned wellness innovator, Amita Sharma is the founder of NourishDoc. Her lived experience as a perimenopausal woman in corporate America ignited a mission to support other women through the mental and physical chaos of midlife. NourishDoc offers integrative, evidence-based programs for women 35+, tackling sexual health, menopause symptoms, mental clarity, and long-term chronic condition prevention. Amita’s Links:Website: http://www.nourishdoc.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nourishdoc/X (Twitter): https://x.com/nourishdocYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nourishdocInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/nourish_docLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amita-sharma-nourishdoc/ Key Takeaways: Perimenopause isn’t just hot flashes—it deeply impacts mental health, identity, and daily functioning. Holistic wellness tools, such as yoga, journaling, and red-light therapy, can help restore balance. There’s a serious education gap in healthcare—many doctors are not trained to recognize or treat perimenopause. Actionable Tips from Amita: Track your symptoms and advocate for testing—don’t wait for your doctor to connect the dots. Start mindfulness and journaling daily to help process changes and center yourself. Explore integrative therapies, such as acupuncture, dietary changes, and vaginal health supplements, to enhance quality of life. Important Chapters & Timestamps00:00 – Intro & Meet Amita03:00 – From Architecture to High-Tech to Holistic Health07:00 – What Perimenopause Really Feels Like12:00 – Mental Health Impact: Depression, Anxiety & Fog16:00 – Cultural Stigma & Workplace Silence22:00 – Loss of Libido, Intimacy, and Sexual Health28:00 – How NourishDoc Empowers Women35:00 – Systemic Gaps in Women’s Healthcare43:00 – Amita’s Advice to Her Younger Self References: NourishDoc Research & Programs – http://www.nourishdoc.com/ WHO and NIH studies on menopause-related mental health PubMed clinical research (as referenced by Amita) Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Love what you heard? Don't forget to subscribe for more bold, unfiltered stories about the real stuff going on in our heads. Please take a moment to rate & review us on your favorite podcast platform or on our website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews For feedback, stories, or shoutouts, visit:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #PerimenopauseSupport #MidlifeWomenWellness#MenopauseJourney #NourishDoc #AmitaSharma #Grex #DirtySkittles #MindfulnessHealing#HormoneHealth #WomenOver40 #HolisticMentalHealth #AnxietySupport #BurnoutRecovery#SelfCareTips #PodcastForWomen #ChronicConditionPrevention #Podmatch #HealthEquityForWomen ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substac

*** Trigger Warning: *** This episode contains discussions of suicidal ideation, overdose, caregiver burnout, and mental health crisis response. Listener discretion is advised. If these topics are distressing, please consider skipping this episode or listening with someone you trust. This is Part 2 of our conversation with Beth and Noel, continuing one of the most personal and powerful stories ever shared on Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads. In this episode, we focus on Noel’s experience as a caregiver, from crisis preparation to emotional exhaustion, and everything in between. Our podcast is proud to be a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Best Mental Health Podcast. With over 2 million downloads, we’re deeply committed to keeping mental health real, raw, and accessible. We’ve been nominated again for the 2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards — in both the Adam Curry Legacy and Health categories. 🗳️ Vote for us by July 31, 2025, at: https://www.podcastawards.com 💬 Share your thoughts or leave us a voice message at: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote of the Episode: "If people love you, they’re going to accept it and do anything for you. That’s what I do for Beth." – Noel Episode Description: Noel opens up about the unimaginable weight of caregiving for someone facing constant mental health crises. From making the house “suicide-proof” to navigating his depression and recent ADHD diagnosis, Noel shares the emotional reality behind supporting Beth. This episode offers a rare and compassionate glimpse into the perspective of a caregiver — the confusion, the calm under pressure, the isolation, and the love that holds it all together. SEO Keywords: caregiver mental health, suicide prevention, partner support, ADHD and caregiving, crisis management, mental health relationships, trauma response, men and mental health, emotional regulation, support systems Meet Our Guests: Beth is a microbiologist and survivor who has overcome severe mental health challenges with the help of DBT, supportive care, and her determination. Her honesty and insight make this a truly moving story. Noel is a musician and podcast editor (and the one who makes us sound good!). He has spent more than two decades by Beth’s side — a caregiver, partner, and advocate — often quietly holding things together when everything else fell apart. Key Takeaways: Caregiving requires resilience and preparation — from managing medication to handling emergency hospitalizations. Even caregivers need care — Noel shares how therapy, music, and dogs became his therapy. Love doesn’t mean fixing someone — it means standing by them even when it gets hard. Actionable Items: Don’t ignore the mental health of caregivers — check in, offer help, or simply listen. Have a safety plan in place for households managing suicide risk. Explore creative coping tools, such as mindfulness, DBT, or music therapy. Chapters / Timestamps: [00:00] Noel’s Role as a Caregiver From partner to protector — how Noel managed the crisis side of Beth’s illness. [02:00] Suicide-Proofing the Home Practical ways Noel tried to keep Beth safe. [06:00] The Turning Point Moments When the ambulance had to stop for critical care, the dog that saved a life. [10:00] Mental Health & Masculinity Noel’s experience with depression and his ADHD diagnosis. [15:00] Love Without Conditions Why emotional support sometimes means going it alone — and still showing up. [22:00] Self-Care That Works From gardening to music to dog grooming — finding peace in the chaos. References: Vote in the Podcast Awards: https://www.podcastawards.com Share feedback: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Review our podcast: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews Mental Health Resources Australia Lifeline – https://www.lifeline.org.au/ 24-hour crisis counselling and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, or chat online. Suicide Call Back Service – https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/ 24/7 phone and online support. Call 1300 659 467. Beyond Blue – https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Mental health support for depression and anxiety. Call 1300 22 4636, 24/7, or chat online. MindSpot – https://www.mindspot.org.au/ Free online and phone services for anxiety, depression, and stress. Call 1800 61 44 34. Medicare Mental Health – https://www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au/ Connects you to local mental health services. Call 1800 595 212. MensLine Australia – https://mensline.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/ 24/7 mental health support for men. Call 1300 78 99 78. Butterfly Foundation (Eating Disorders) – https://butterfly.org.au/get-support/chat-online/ Eating disorder support 7 days/week, 8 am–midnight AEST. Call 1800 33 4673. United Kingdom Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org/ Free 24/7 emotional support. Call 116 123 or email [email protected]. SHOUT – https://giveusashout.org/ Free, confidential text support

*** Trigger Warning: *** This episode contains personal stories involving eating disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and hospitalization for mental health crises. Listener discretion is advised. If these topics are triggering for you, please consider skipping this episode or listening with support. Welcome to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, where we talk honestly about what mental health really looks like — messy, real, and deeply human. In this powerful two-part series, we sit down with Beth and Noel to hear their shared story of survival, love, and resilience. We are incredibly proud to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health, and was named Best Mental Health Podcast by the 2024 Women in Podcasting Awards. With over 2 million downloads, we’re honored to keep bringing conversations like this into the light. We're also nominated in two categories for the 2025 Podcast People's Choice Awards — the Adam Curry Legacy Category and the Health Category. 🗳️ Please vote for us before July 31, 2025, at: https://www.podcastawards.com (you’ll need to verify your email). 💬 We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us a voice message or written feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a This is Part 1 of a 2-part episode. Part 2 will be released on Thursday, July 31st, 2025. Mental Health Quote of the Episode: "You don’t have to act on every emotion. Sometimes, noticing the storm is enough to survive it." Episode Description: In this emotionally raw and eye-opening episode, Beth shares her mental health journey, spanning childhood trauma, eating disorders, misdiagnoses, and suicide attempts. She opens up about growing up in a volatile household, dealing with body image and control issues, and finding hope in therapy later in life. Her partner, Noel, joins to reflect on his role as both a loving spouse and a caregiver, offering a rare perspective on what it means to support someone through mental health crises. Together, Beth and Noel tell a story of heartbreak, hospitalizations, and ultimately, healing. This episode focuses on: The experience of living with an undiagnosed mental illness The emotional toll of caregiving in a long-term relationship The differences in mental health support systems in the UK vs. Australia SEO Keywords: mental health, eating disorders, suicide survival, caregiver mental health, borderline personality disorder, DBT, UK mental health system, Australia mental health services, trauma healing, mental illness recovery Meet Our Guests: Beth is a microbiologist and survivor who has overcome severe mental health challenges with the help of DBT, supportive care, and her determination. Her honesty and insight make this a truly moving story. Noel is a musician and podcast editor (and the one who makes us sound good!). He has spent more than two decades by Beth’s side — a caregiver, partner, and advocate — often quietly holding things together when everything else fell apart. Key Takeaways: Recovery is non-linear — Beth’s healing came with setbacks, detours, and growth across decades. Caregivers are deeply affected — Noel’s experience shows how supporting someone through mental illness takes an emotional toll. Getting the right help matters — The difference in care between the UK and Australia was life-changing. Actionable Items: Don’t wait for a crisis — Seek therapy or support early, even if things feel manageable. Check on caregivers — Partners, family members, and friends supporting someone may be suffering in silence. Explore DBT — Dialectical Behavior Therapy gave Beth the tools to regain control of her life. Chapters / Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome & Introductions Meet Beth and Noel and learn why this episode is so personal for the hosts. [03:00] Childhood & Trauma Beth reflects on growing up with emotional instability and disordered eating patterns. [13:00] University Collapse An inside look at her breakdown during graduate school and the silent battles she fought. [23:00] Suicide Attempts & Overdoses Beth speaks openly about her darkest moments and her hospitalizations. [31:00] Discovering DBT A turning point in her recovery journey — learning tools that made hope possible. [36:00] Mental Health Systems: UK vs. Australia Noel and Beth explain how access to proper care changed everything. References: Vote for us in the 2025 Podcast People's Choice Awards: https://www.podcastawards.com Leave feedback: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Add your review: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews Mental Health Resources Australia Lifeline – https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Provides 24-hour crisis counselling, suicide prevention, and support groups. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, or chat online. Suicide Call Back Service – https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/ 24/7 telephone and online support for people in emotional crisis. Call 1300 659 467. Beyond Blue – https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

In this powerful episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, we talk with trauma survivor, speaker, and Author Melissa Osorio, who shares her raw and deeply moving journey of rediscovering her childhood trauma and healing through ayahuasca and intentional self-work. As a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health, a 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, and with over 2 million downloads, we’re proud to keep amplifying real, unfiltered stories like Melissa’s. 🎧 We want to hear from YOU! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a We’ve been nominated again — in the Adam Curry and Health categories of the Podcast People’s Choice Awards! Vote for us before July 31, 2025, at: https://www.podcastawards.com/ (Use a valid email — they’ll verify it!) Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to heal all at once—just show up for yourself, one small step at a time.” What This Episode Covers In this episode, we explore: How suppressed trauma shapes adult identity What ayahuasca is—and isn’t The path from personal breakdown to community healing The importance of safe spaces for trauma processing How healing your past transforms your present and impacts future generations SEO Keywords: mental health podcast, ayahuasca healing, childhood trauma recovery, Melissa Osorio, psychedelic therapy, hidden memories, trauma integration, self-compassion, healing retreats, Rythmia Costa Rica, women’s healing stories, reclaiming your life Meet Our Guest – Melissa Osorio Melissa Osorio is a trauma survivor, speaker, entrepreneur, and author of Hidden Memories: Discover What’s Blocking You From Life and Love. After unlocking long-buried memories of childhood abuse triggered by the sudden death of her father, Melissa found profound healing through ayahuasca. Today, she helps others reclaim their wholeness by teaching at Rythmia, a life advancement retreat center in Costa Rica. Website: https://melissa-osorio.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissaosorio_remembers Key Takeaways Healing isn’t linear — Grief and growth go hand-in-hand. Your body remembers what your mind forgets — Trauma is stored physically and spiritually. You don’t have to be where you’ve always been — Sometimes, the most significant healing starts with a single step in a new direction. Actionable Tools From This Episode Practice Self-Compassion Daily: Start your morning by saying one kind thing to yourself out loud. Choose Community Over Isolation: Join a healing circle, retreat, or online support group—even if it feels scary. Educate Yourself on Trauma: Read Melissa’s book or others that explain the neuroscience behind trauma and healing. Episode Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and Welcome 01:07 – Melissa's journey from the East Coast to San Diego 04:23 – The moment everything changed: “You don’t have to be here anymore.” 10:46 – Melissa’s early life, family secrets, and childhood in Venezuela 15:22 – Discovering Rythmia and ayahuasca 18:56 – Remembering the trauma and understanding hidden memories 24:29 – The grief cycle and navigating acceptance 28:04 – Life after the retreat: What integration means 33:36 – Finding purpose through healing and becoming a teacher 41:47 – Healing later in life and how it helps your family too 46:19 – Advice to your younger self & reclaiming your essence 49:43 – Melissa’s tools for self-love and daily care References Hidden Memories: Discover What’s Blocking You From Life and Love by Melissa Osorio Rythmia Life Advancement Center – https://rythmia.com Cast Feedback – https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Vote in the 2025 Podcast People’s Choice Awards – https://www.podcastawards.com/ Subscribe, Rate, and Review! If this episode touched you, subscribe to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads. Please leave us a review, and share it with a friend. Help us keep the conversation going at: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #AyahuascaHealing #TraumaRecovery #HiddenMemories #MelissaOsorio #PsychedelicTherapy #SelfCompassion #HealingJourney #DirtySkittles #GRex #Podmatch #WomensMentalHealth #EmotionalWellbeing #Rythmia #ChildhoodHealing #PodcastAwards2025 #HealingWithAyahuasca #MentalWellness ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles

In this powerful episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, we’re joined by Marie Alessi — grief advocate, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author. After the sudden loss of her husband, Marie found herself raising two young sons while navigating an ocean of grief. But instead of sinking, she built a new life rooted in healing, purpose, and compassion. This episode is an honest and inspiring conversation about choosing resilience over despair, finding strength in vulnerability, and how emotional intelligence transforms the way we support each other through grief. We’re honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health and the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, with over 2 million downloads and a growing global community. Help Us Win Again! We've been nominated for the 2025 Podcast People’s Choice Awards in two categories: The Adam Curry Category and Health. Vote before July 31, 2025, at: https://www.podcastawards.com/ (Use a valid email address — email verification is required.) Share Your Feedback We’d love to hear from you. Send us your thoughts, questions, or personal stories using this link: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Quote from the Episode “When you fall apart, you see what's left in you — and that was power.” — Marie Alessi Episode Description After losing her husband to a sudden brain aneurysm, Marie Alessi was thrust into a new reality: single parenthood, unimaginable grief, and a choice — stay buried in sorrow or rise and heal. She chose healing. In this episode, we explore the mental, emotional, and spiritual components of grief, parenting through trauma, and how mindset can change everything. Whether you're experiencing loss or supporting someone who is, Marie’s journey will leave you with tools, hope, and a reminder that light can exist even in the darkest spaces. SEO Keywords: mental health podcast, grief and healing, emotional intelligence for kids, Marie Alessi interview, overcoming trauma, support for widows, healing journey, grief support, parenting through grief, resilience after loss Meet Our Guest: Marie Alessi Marie Alessi is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and internationally recognized grief advocate. She became a widow at age 45 and turned her personal tragedy into a movement to help others heal after loss. Through books, retreats, and coaching, Marie has guided thousands in transforming grief into a catalyst for growth. Website: https://www.mariealessi.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marie.alessi.speaker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarieAlessiPublicFigure LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-alessi Key Takeaways Grief isn’t just sadness — it can also be the gateway to empowerment and connection. Children need more than comfort — they need the language to name their emotions. Allowing support into your life is a sign of strength, not weakness. Actionable Items When helping a grieving friend, offer specific options (e.g., “Tuesday or Thursday?”) instead of saying “Call me if you need anything.” Use affirming grief language: “There’s a space in my heart for them,” rather than “There’s a hole in my heart.” Write a letter from your loved one to yourself — a powerful reframe for healing and self-connection. Chapters & Timestamps [00:01:36] Marie on Being in a Good Place — mindset, structure, and allowing help [00:04:20] Therapy at 21 — breaking out of the victim mindset [00:20:53] The Day Rob Died — shock, intuition, and loss [00:27:13] Spiritual Epiphany — soul contracts and acceptance [00:29:51] Grieving Kids — helping children name and process emotions [00:40:26] Power in Falling Apart — grief as transformation [00:56:56] Self-Love as the Hardest Lesson — unconditional acceptance Mental Health & Grief Resources: Tools, Books, and Education Books & Tools Women Who Love Too Much by Robin Norwood This book helped Marie recognize relationship patterns that were rooted in unresolved emotional trauma, and ultimately led her to therapy. *(Search on Amazon or local bookstores.)* Books by Marie Alessi Explore Marie’s personal stories and healing frameworks in her published works. https://www.mariealessi.com/ Education & Community Simon Sinek’s “8 Minutes” (YouTube) A short but emotional talk on the importance of truly listening. It Means "I Need You": The Power of 8 Minutes Children’s Collaborative (US) An organization bringing grief education to schools is essential for emotional development and peer understanding. https://childrenscollaborative.us/ Special Shout-Out: Women Supporting Women A big thank you to Melissa Crook of The F.E.E.L Podcast, who is helping women reconnect with themselves through intentional wellness. Learn More: https://www.embracinglayers.com/ Enroll in the Course: Course Link Workbook: https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-L-Fueled-Life-Empowerment/dp/B0FCDML1FB Subscribe, Rate & Review Love the show? Please subscribe, rate us, and

In this emotionally charged episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, addiction recovery expert and entrepreneur Richard Taite shares the powerful story of how he turned his own struggles with addiction and trauma into a mission to save lives and create lasting change. From founding groundbreaking treatment centers to launching a top-ranked podcast, Richard speaks candidly about healing, purpose, and fighting back against the fentanyl crisis. We’re proud to be the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner for Health, the 2024 Women In Podcasting Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, and have been heard in over 80 countries with more than 1.8 million downloads. We’d love your feedback—whether you want to drop us a note or a voice message, visit: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a We’ve also been nominated for the 2025 Podcast People's Choice Awards in the Adam Curry and Health categories. Voting is open until July 31, 2025, at https://www.podcastawards.com/. Please ensure you use a valid email address, as verification is required. Thank you so much for your support! Mental Health Quote from the Episode “What kills people is not knowing that they’re loved and worthy of healing.” Episode Description Richard Taite’s life and work are proof that healing from addiction isn’t just possible—it’s purposeful. In this raw and timely conversation, Richard opens up about the abuse and trauma that led him into addiction, how he clawed his way to sobriety, and why he’s using his platform to fight back against the fentanyl epidemic. As the founder of multiple top-tier treatment centers and host of the #3-ranked mental health podcast, We’re Out of Time, Richard delivers powerful insights on recovery, identity, and what the system gets wrong—and right—about addiction. He shares the emotional cost of being publicly successful but privately broken, as well as the crucial role of compassion, data, and honesty in saving lives. SEO Keywords: addiction recovery, fentanyl crisis, Richard Taite interview, trauma and healing, mental health and sobriety, men in recovery, overcoming childhood abuse, treatment centers, purpose after addiction, solutions for the opioid crisis, recovery podcast, drug overdose awareness, healing from trauma Meet Our Guest: Richard Taite Richard Taite – Addiction Recovery Expert | Founder | Advocate | Host of “We’re Out of Time” Richard Taite is a nationally recognized leader in addiction recovery and trauma-informed care. He is the founder and executive chairman of Carrara Treatment Wellness & Spa and 1 Method, and the former founder of Cliffside Malibu. Across decades of work, Richard has helped thousands—including celebrities and high-risk individuals—achieve lasting recovery. Currently hosting the acclaimed podcast We’re Out of Time, Richard is using his platform to advocate for urgent national action on fentanyl, overdose prevention, and compassionate recovery services. His life is a testament to the idea that recovery is not only possible but also transformational. Connect with Richard Taite: Website: http://wereoutoftime.com Twitter: https://x.com/RichardTaite Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardtaiteofficial/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardTaiteOfficial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardtaite/ Key Takeaways The root of addiction is often deep trauma and shame, not just chemical dependency. Compassion, structure, and data must all be part of effective treatment. Your past does not define you; purpose and healing are always possible. Actionable Items Educate yourself and loved ones on the signs of fentanyl exposure and how to respond. Listen to We’re Out of Time to understand the real-time impact of the addiction crisis: http://wereoutoftime.com Practice telling your own story, even if just to yourself—it’s the first step to healing. Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & how Richard met G-Rex 03:10 – Richard’s childhood trauma and roots of addiction 09:30 – The spark that led to sobriety 14:00 – Building treatment centers rooted in empathy and science 18:45 – Why addiction treatment in America needs to evolve 22:30 – What the fentanyl crisis is doing to families 27:00 – Mental health, identity, and finding purpose 32:20 – Starting We’re Out of Time and sounding the alarm 38:00 – Final thoughts: compassion and accountability #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #FentanylCrisis #RichardTaite #TraumaHealing #OverdosePrevention #Grex #DirtySkittles #RecoveryIsPossible #HealingThroughPurpose #DrugAddictionAwareness #OpioidCrisis #SoberLiving #PodcastAwardWinner #CarraraTreatment #WereOutOfTimePodcast #MenAndMentalHealth #RecoveryWarrior #AddictionAndHealing Subscribe, Rate & Review Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories and authentic conversations around mental health. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews ***************