Retrieving Sanity

Tired of feeling like you’re playing mental health whack-a-mole? Tune into ”Retrieving Sanity”, your no-BS guide to navigating addiction and championing recovery. This podcast blends serious insights with a healthy dose of reality and a dash of dark humor, because healing doesn’t have to be humorless. Discover tangible tools, hear inspiring personal stories, and learn how to truly reclaim your well-being. Featured on radio and TV across the nation, we’re here to end the stigma on mental health! Ready to share your personal story, whether it be with addiction, trauma, or a hurricane of bad luck story? We provide a platform for your voice to make an impact. Don’t just survive, thrive – subscribe to Retrieving Sanity! Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
Episodes
Episodes



3 days ago
3 days ago
Be sure to check Zoe's website!Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read and guest Zoe Smith delve into the concept of Star Children, including Indigo, Crystal, and Rainbow Children. They discuss the importance of self-discovery, the impact of societal expectations, and the need for a supportive educational environment that nurtures individual interests. The conversation emphasizes the significance of allowing children to explore their identities and the journey of personal growth, while also addressing the challenges of burnout and the importance of self-care.
Takeaways
Understanding that other people's expectations are not your own is crucial.Self-discovery is a journey that requires patience and effort.Star Children, including Indigo and Crystal Children, have unique traits and needs.Education should be tailored to the interests and strengths of children.Encouraging exploration can lead to greater self-understanding in children.Burnout can change a person, but it also teaches valuable lessons.Life is about the journey, not just reaching a destination.Labels can limit individuals; they can be changed or removed.Embracing change is essential for personal growth and happiness.Finding peace within oneself is a continuous process that requires effort.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Self-Discovery02:25 Understanding Expectations and Self-Worth04:59 Exploring Star Children and New Age Concepts07:55 Characteristics of Star Children10:43 The Role of Labels in Understanding Children13:17 Education and Tailored Learning Approaches15:44 Practical Skills and Real-World Applications in Education29:02 Embracing Individual Journeys30:54 The Importance of Exploration32:56 Navigating Parental Expectations35:12 Encouraging Social Connections37:32 Overcoming Labels and Anxiety40:24 The Intersection of Fear and Excitement41:49 The Control Factor in Life44:29 The Constant of Change46:29 Evolving Self-Identity50:10 Recognizing Burnout and Its Lessons#mentalhealth #starchildren #newperspective #indigochildren #rainbowchildren #self-discovery #parenting #emotionalwellbeing #parenting
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Can Laughter Heal Wounds of War? with Oksana Prisavera
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Summary
In this episode, Keegan Read and Oksana Pysareva discuss the transformative power of art therapy, particularly in the context of helping children and families cope with trauma. They explore the importance of humor in healing, the role of creative expression through poetry and storytelling, and the significance of building trust and communication in therapeutic settings. Oksana shares insights from her work with adolescents and the impact of documenting stories through film, emphasizing the need for a safe space for expression. The conversation also touches on the cultural relevance of memes as a modern form of communication and support.
Takeaways
Art therapy is crucial for recovery and healing.Humor plays a significant role in mental health.Creative expression can help children process trauma.Building trust is essential in therapy.Adolescents often need tailored approaches in therapy.Storytelling can be a powerful therapeutic tool.Documenting experiences through film can aid healing.Family dynamics greatly influence mental health.Coping mechanisms can include simple, everyday activities.Memes serve as a modern language of support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Art Therapy and Humor02:59 The Role of Humor in Healing06:03 Art Therapy as a Resource08:55 Engaging Families in Recovery12:07 Supporting Adolescents Through Creative Expression14:53 The Power of Storytelling and Filmmaking17:48 Creating Safe Spaces for Expression20:49 Transforming Trauma Through Creativity23:56 Finding Balance in Healing26:45 The Importance of Metaphor in Therapy33:42 The Power of Memes in Communication40:23 Using Humor to Cope with Trauma45:55 Finding Joy Amidst Adversity51:48 The Role of Family in Mental Health01:00:25 Future Conversations on Family Dynamics#mentalhealth #arttherapy #humor #recovery #children #storytelling #trauma #familydynamics #copingmechanisms #retrievingsanity #podcast #ukraine #warDon't forget to stop by Voices of Children to donate if you can! Every little bit helps, and helps bring another child laughter in a dark world!
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Thursday May 29, 2025
How One Coach Beat Binge Eating For Good! with Max Radovanic
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read interviews Max Radovanic, a men's transformation coach who has lost over 220 pounds and overcome significant mental health challenges. Max shares his journey of transformation, emphasizing the importance of mindset, structure, and community support. He discusses how technology aids in mental health management and the role of social media in connecting with others. As he prepares for the Radical Body Transformation event, Max inspires listeners with his story and encourages them to take healthy risks and never give up on their goals.
Takeaways
Max Radovanic is a men's transformation coach and founder of Fat2Fit Lifestyle LLC.He lost over 220 pounds and overcame binge eating disorder and mental health struggles.Max emphasizes the importance of mindset in transformation, stating it's more about mental change than physical.Building a support system is crucial for overcoming challenges and maintaining motivation.Structure and discipline from gym routines significantly improved Max's mental health.Max uses technology, including ChatGPT, to aid in self-reflection and mental health management.Positive self-talk is essential for overcoming setbacks and maintaining motivation.Max creates personalized plans for clients, recognizing that one size does not fit all.Social media played a significant role in Max's journey, helping him connect with others and document his progress.Max is preparing for the Radical Body Transformation event, showcasing his journey and inspiring others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Transformation and Coaching02:07 The Journey of Weight Loss and Mental Health05:06 Overcoming Addiction and Building Discipline07:26 The Role of ADHD and Bipolar Disorder in Transformation09:50 Creating a Supportive Online Community12:04 The Importance of Passion in Coaching14:45 Applying Gym Discipline to Entrepreneurship17:36 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth19:26 Utilizing AI for Self-Reflection22:07 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts26:41 Navigating Holidays and Personal Connections29:01 Finding Effective Organizational Systems32:45 The Journey to Bodybuilding: From Social Media to Stage35:57 Building a Supportive Community41:10 Overcoming Challenges with Positive Self-Talk43:58 The Art of Posing in Bodybuilding Competitions#transformation #coaching #mentalhealth #additcion #recovery #personalgrowth #mindset #supportsystem #discipline #socialmedia #bodybuildingBe sure to check out his Instagram and other socials!
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Sunday May 25, 2025
What Happens When You Ask For Help With Mental Health with Mike Forrester
Sunday May 25, 2025
Sunday May 25, 2025
Summary
In this conversation, Keegan Read and Mike Forrester delve into the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on men's emotional struggles and the journey of self-discovery. Mike shares his personal experiences with childhood trauma, dyslexia, and the impact of negative beliefs on his life. They discuss the importance of recognizing self-sabotage, understanding emotions, and the role of relationships in personal growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection, the challenges of changing ingrained beliefs, and the significance of emotional awareness in achieving a fulfilling life. In this conversation, Mike Forrester and Keegan Read explore the complexities of emotional healing, forgiveness, and the impact of family dynamics on personal growth. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, the journey of self-affirmation, and the significance of supportive relationships in navigating life's challenges. The dialogue emphasizes the need for accountability and the power of taking action to create a better future, while also acknowledging the difficulties of changing family legacies and the role of men in mental health discussions.
Takeaways
Mike's journey into coaching stemmed from personal struggles.Beliefs formed in childhood can significantly impact adult life.Self-sabotage often stems from feelings of unworthiness.Emotions can be seen as weaknesses, leading to avoidance.Understanding emotions is crucial for personal growth.Relationships can thrive when individuals work on themselves.Catching anger early requires self-reflection and awareness.It's important to analyze past behaviors to understand triggers.Change takes time and consistent effort.Emotional awareness can lead to healthier relationships and self-acceptance. Embracing emotions is crucial for personal growth.Forgiveness is often more for oneself than for others.Setting boundaries is essential in unhealthy relationships.Family dynamics can significantly impact personal development.Self-affirmation helps in overcoming past traumas.Healing is a continuous journey that requires effort.Supportive relationships are vital for emotional well-being.Changing family legacies is possible through conscious effort.Taking action today can lead to a better future.Accountability and responsibility are key to personal transformation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Coaching03:04 Mike's Journey: From Struggles to Coaching05:53 The Impact of Beliefs on Personal and Professional Life08:42 Self-Sabotage and Its Consequences11:12 Understanding Anger and Its Roots13:58 The Path to Change and Self-Discovery16:43 The Importance of Internal Change for External Success19:25 Building a Supportive Relationship and Overcoming Insecurities21:45 Transforming Self to Transform Surroundings23:08 Understanding Emotions and Logic25:21 Catching Emotional Triggers28:08 The Hindsight Approach to Behavior30:29 Practicing Emotional Awareness32:15 Navigating Emotional Pain33:52 Forgiveness and Boundaries36:48 Reconnecting with Parents40:36 Self-Affirmation and Personal Responsibility42:43 Redefining Masculinity and Emotional Awareness45:17 The Journey of Self-Forgiveness and Growth48:45 Transforming Family Dynamics and Legacy52:45 Navigating Change in Relationships55:43 Finding Supportive Connections59:51 Taking Action for a Healthier Future01:03:18 Launching Men's Mental Health InitiativesBe sure to check out his website here: https://www.hicoachmike.com/Also, don't forget to check out mensmentalhealth.fm#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #recovery #trauma #childhood #memories #family #relationships #rebuilding #discovery #feelings #emotions
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Thursday May 22, 2025
Special Forces Breathing with Tim Thomas
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
Summary
In this episode, Keegan Read and Tim Thomas explore the critical role of sleep in mental health and recovery, particularly for veterans dealing with PTSD and addiction. Tim shares his personal journey from the battlefield to discovering the transformative power of breathwork. The conversation delves into how breathwork can empower individuals, improve sleep quality, and foster connections among those who have faced similar struggles. Tim emphasizes the importance of understanding one's breath as a means to reclaim personal sovereignty and enhance overall well-being. The episode concludes with practical breathwork techniques that listeners can incorporate into their daily lives for better health and sleep. In this conversation, Tim Thomas discusses the transformative power of breathwork, emphasizing its ability to connect individuals to their bodies, enhance energy levels, and foster deeper connections with others. He shares practical techniques for breathwork, highlights the importance of generosity in personal growth, and guides listeners through a breathwork session to experience its benefits firsthand. The discussion also touches on breaking isolation and the role of mindfulness in mental health, ultimately encouraging listeners to explore their own breath as a tool for healing and connection.
Takeaways
Sleep is crucial for mental health and recovery.Breathwork can help regulate emotions and improve sleep quality.Understanding one's own breath can lead to personal empowerment.Veterans often struggle with PTSD and sleep issues.Transforming pain into purpose can help others heal.Connection with others is vital for recovery.Breathwork can be a simple yet effective tool for insomnia.Daily breathwork practices can enhance overall well-being.The body has a natural ability to heal through breath.Breathwork can be integrated into daily routines for better health. Breath connects us back to our body and energy.Breathwork can help alleviate physical and mental tension.Generosity enhances our energy and connection with others.Breathwork can be a powerful tool for healing.Isolation can hinder recovery and connection.Mindfulness through breath can improve mental health.Breathwork allows for deeper self-awareness and relaxation.Practicing breathwork can lead to transformative experiences.Generosity can be expressed through small acts.Breathwork can help unlock dormant potential within us.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sleep and Mental Health01:21 Understanding the Importance of Sleep03:34 The Journey of Breathwork and Recovery06:56 Transforming Pain into Purpose08:57 The Power of Connection and Community11:11 Overcoming Resistance to Change14:17 Breathwork Techniques for Better Sleep18:10 Making Breathwork Accessible to All23:20 Breaking Isolation and Connection25:34 The Journey Through Addiction27:50 Breathwork as a Solution for Insomnia29:42 Finding Satisfaction Through Breathwork31:02 Breathwork Techniques for Daily Life33:13 The Science of Breath and Nitric Oxide35:42 Connecting to Our Body Through Breath40:10 The Power of Breathwork in Healing42:12 Authenticity in Sharing Breathwork Benefits44:48 Breaking Isolation and Fatigue in Recovery48:57 The Power of Generosity50:03 Breathwork Basics: Connecting to Your Body52:38 Understanding Breath and Energy54:31 Breaking Lifelong Breathing Habits01:00:32 Breath of Possibility: Self-Regulation Techniques01:01:32 Breath of Peace: Deep Relaxation Techniques01:09:01 Unlocking Your Potential Through Breathwork#sleep #mentalhealth #breathwork #recovery #PTSD #addiction #mindfulness #veterans #wellness #self-care #healing #connection
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Sunday May 18, 2025
Finding Harmony with Work and Life with Arlene Cohen Miller
Sunday May 18, 2025
Sunday May 18, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with Arlene Cohen Miller, a leadership coach specializing in work-life harmony. They explore the challenges of achieving balance in today's fast-paced world, the importance of gratitude, and the role of nature in mental health. Arlene shares her journey from being a lawyer to a coach, emphasizing the significance of self-compassion and authenticity. The conversation also delves into metaphysical practices and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive relationships. Arlene offers insights on how to navigate fears and responsibilities while fostering a kind and patient relationship with oneself.
Takeaways
Work-life harmony is a state of being, not perfection.Setting realistic expectations is crucial for mental well-being.Nature has healing properties that can enhance mental health.Gratitude can significantly improve mental well-being.Responsibility can be viewed as a gift rather than a burden.Coaching involves creating a judgment-free space for clients.Authenticity is essential in both personal and professional life.Surrounding yourself with supportive people is vital for growth.Self-compassion is key to overcoming challenges.Metaphysical practices can aid in personal transformation.#work-lifeharmony #leadership #coaching #mentalhealth #gratitude #authenticity #responsibility #nature #metaphysical
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Work-Life Harmony03:10 The Journey to Work-Life Harmony06:14 Understanding Perfectionism and Balance08:52 The Role of Nature in Mental Health11:55 The Power of Gratitude14:43 Responsibility as a Gift17:52 Coaching Through Paralyzing Fears20:56 The Importance of Not Taking Things Personally23:40 Building Healthy Relationships26:57 Balancing Authenticity in Life30:33 The Courage to Be Authentic32:12 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People37:14 Navigating Friendships and Growth40:12 Embracing Feelings for Healing46:11 Daily Practices for Inner Peace51:26 The Power of Crystals and Metaphysics56:05 New Outro Test 1.mp4
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Thursday May 15, 2025
Climbing the Dopamine Mountain with Andy Y West
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with author Andy West about her journey through addiction and recovery, focusing on the role of dopamine in mental health. They discuss the science behind dopamine, techniques to interrupt addictive thoughts, and the importance of pain and challenge in regulating dopamine levels. Andy shares her personal experiences and insights on using rewards to manage dopamine, the significance of small steps in achieving success, and the concept of neuroplasticity in personal growth. The conversation concludes with practical tips for enhancing GABA and creating effective morning routines. In this conversation, Andy Y West and Keegan Read explore the intricate relationship between neurotransmitters like GABA and dopamine, mindfulness practices, the cycle of addiction, and the importance of effort and reward in our daily lives. They discuss how modern technology impacts our mental health and the necessity of finding balance in our lives to foster growth and recovery. The dialogue emphasizes the power of the mind in influencing our physical and emotional states, and the importance of facing challenges head-on to cultivate resilience and a growth mindset.
Takeaways
Andy West wrote her book to pull herself out of a rut.Dopamine affects motivation, mood, and drive.Anhedonia is a chemical lack of dopamine, not self-esteem issues.Interrupting addictive thoughts can help manage cravings.Pain can lower dopamine, allowing it to rise again.Using rewards can help manage dopamine levels effectively.Small steps can lead to significant changes in behavior.Neuroplasticity allows the brain to grow and adapt.Morning routines can set a positive tone for the day.GABA can be enhanced through relaxation techniques. GABA acts as the incoming signal to the brain, promoting relaxation.Mindfulness practices can enhance our sensory experiences and connection to the present.Dopamine is crucial for both mental health and physical movement.The cycle of addiction often involves a struggle with dopamine levels.Effort, reward, and rest are essential components of our daily lives.Modern technology may hinder our natural dopamine and GABA balance.Facing challenges can lead to personal growth and resilience.Understanding the dynamics of neurotransmitters can aid in recovery from addiction.Gratitude for our abilities and opportunities can enhance mental health.We must actively engage with our emotions to prevent them from becoming trapped.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dopamine and Personal Struggles02:44 The Impact of Addiction on Dopamine05:38 Understanding Dopamine: Wanting vs. Liking08:32 Interrupting Addictive Thoughts11:23 The Role of Pain and Challenge in Dopamine Regulation14:19 Using Rewards to Manage Dopamine Levels17:04 Finding Success in Small Movements19:57 Neuroplasticity and Rebuilding Movement Circuits20:23 Building a Growth Mindset21:19 Transforming Challenges into Growth22:04 The Power of Morning Routines23:29 Harnessing Dopamine for Productivity24:49 Enhancing Relaxation and GABA Levels27:27 Increasing GABA Naturally29:13 Mindfulness and Sensory Awareness31:00 The Connection Between Thoughts and Physiology34:24 Understanding Dopamine and Addiction40:36 The Impact of Instant Gratification41:44 Effort, Reward, and Rest: The Cycle of Life44:13 The Evolution of Human Behavior45:43 The Balance of Pleasure and Pain47:10 Moderation and the Cycle of Life48:04 The Role of Dopamine and GABA51:43 Navigating Pain and Pleasure53:10 Facing Challenges Head-On57:55 Reframing Hard Work59:04 Gratitude and Growth Mindset
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast



Sunday May 11, 2025
Tapping Through Healing with Amy Vincze
Sunday May 11, 2025
Sunday May 11, 2025
Be sure to check out her website here:https://soarwithtapping.com/podcast-special/
Summary
In this episode, Keegan Read interviews Amy Vincze, a wellness expert, about the practice of tapping, a technique that combines elements of acupuncture, cognitive therapy, and somatic therapy to promote emotional and physical healing. Amy shares her journey into tapping, its benefits, and how it can be used to address various emotional and physical issues. The conversation explores the importance of emotional awareness, the role of anger in healing, and the significance of addressing foundational fears. Listeners are introduced to the Soar with Tapping app, which provides resources for individuals looking to incorporate tapping into their lives. The episode emphasizes that healing is a lifelong journey and encourages listeners to lean into their emotions for personal growth.
Takeaways
Tapping is a powerful tool for emotional and physical healing.It combines elements of acupuncture, cognitive therapy, and somatic therapy.Tapping can lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm.The technique is accessible and can be done anywhere, anytime.Emotional awareness is crucial for effective tapping.Tapping can help release trauma and phobias quickly.The Soar with Tapping app provides resources for users.Anger is a vital emotion that can lead to personal empowerment.Foundational fears often underlie anxiety and depression.Healing is a lifelong journey that requires ongoing effort.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tapping and Its Origins02:56 Understanding the Mechanism of Tapping06:02 The Benefits and Accessibility of Tapping08:59 Tapping Techniques and Points11:56 Emotional Release and Positive Affirmations14:59 Tapping for Physical Ailments and Allergies20:01 The Power of Tapping for Emotional Healing23:30 Creating a Tapping App for Accessibility29:02 Identifying and Addressing Foundational Fears32:43 The Role of Trauma in Emotional Health34:48 Facing Fears and Finding Freedom38:42 Transformative Power of Tapping40:05 Healing in Layers: The Journey of Self-Discovery41:49 The Importance of Personalizing Tapping Scripts43:12 Rage Tapping: Embracing Anger for Healing45:54 Understanding and Accepting Anger48:00 The Role of Passion in Personal Growth50:06 Overcoming Emotional Awareness Barriers53:04 Engaging with Emotions for Lasting Change56:32 Resources and Future Engagements
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast