Retrieving Sanity | Mental Health & Recovery from Addictions and Traumas

Surviving the Divorce of a Narcissist with Kimber Foster

Reflection Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14NTC53ZMUbS9tSDHZvMnD1BpX5WX-KmF/view?usp=drive_linkKimber's website here: https://www.facebook.com/Datema.WendeSummary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Kemper Foster, author of 'The Year of Thorns', who shares her harrowing journey of surviving a 27-year marriage to a narcissist. They discuss the signs of narcissistic behavior, the emotional and psychological toll of living with a narcissist, and the importance of forgiveness and self-love in the recovery process. Kemper also highlights the impact of such relationships on children and offers insights into navigating the legal complexities of divorce. The conversation emphasizes the need for healing, setting boundaries, and moving forward towards a happier life.
Takeaways
Forgiveness is crucial for recovery from toxic relationships.Recognizing early signs of narcissism can prevent future pain.Emotional conditioning can take years to overcome.The importance of creating a support system during recovery.Children can be deeply affected by parental narcissism.Documenting experiences can provide clarity and validation.Setting boundaries is essential for personal safety.Healing is a gradual process that requires patience.Self-love and self-care are vital for moving forward.Sharing your story can help others in similar situations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Recovery02:35 Recognizing Narcissistic Behavior05:38 The Illusion of a Perfect Life08:16 The Manipulation Tactics of a Narcissist11:16 The Breaking Point and Realization14:17 Life After Leaving a Narcissist17:17 Navigating Co-Parenting with a Narcissist20:28 The Duality of Love and Betrayal24:06 Breaking Free from Toxic Relationships27:29 Forgiveness and Moving Forward31:46 The Divorce Checklist: A Survival Guide36:22 The Struggles of Leaving a Narcissistic Partner37:18 Navigating Parental Challenges38:54 The Impact of Divorce on Children40:25 Financial Struggles and Substance Abuse42:02 The Journey of Healing Post-Divorce44:12 Understanding Narcissism and Abuse46:24 Manipulation and Control in Relationships48:57 Finding Strength and Moving Forward51:59 Retrieving Sanity: Forgiveness and Growth#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #narcissist #divorce #relationships #marriage #surviving #traumarecovery #gaslighting #emotionalabuse #personalgrowth
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

Bad Wasn't Always Bad: A Journey of Maladaptive Traits

Reflection Sheet Here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gGhgtVhegmGh1-D_WbJZC_jm2QrtNBnm/view?usp=drive_link
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read delves into the complexities of identity formation and the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior. He shares personal anecdotes about feeling disowned and the struggle to understand oneself amidst trauma and maladaptive coping mechanisms. Keegan emphasizes that many of our identities are shaped by external influences, often leading to confusion and a sense of disconnection from our true selves. He discusses the importance of recognizing these influences and the need for self-advocacy in reclaiming one's identity.
Keegan further explores the concept of maladaptive traits, using the metaphor of fire to illustrate how survival mechanisms can sometimes cause more harm than good. He encourages listeners to reflect on their past, confront their inner voices, and embrace their uniqueness. The episode culminates in a call to action for self-love and the importance of seeking help in the healing journey, highlighting that understanding oneself is a crucial step towards transformation and growth.
 
Takeaways
"Sometimes a lot of our identity is formed whenever we're really, really young.""Maladaptive traits can be counterproductive in a lot of ways.""Resisting the urge to transform is what keeps us in a rut.""We were taught to not listen to ourselves.""If you believe you can go do X, Y, Z, I believe you can.""Love yourself first before you can love others.""We never know what someone else is going through at any point in time.""We can choose where we go, we can choose what we do.""We can lovingly give ourselves guidance instead of criticism.""Every breath we take changes us."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey00:52 Identity Formation and Childhood Trauma09:55 Understanding Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms15:08 The Importance of Self-Awareness22:35 Navigating Life and Healing27:02 Embracing Change and Transformation33:02 Conclusion and Next Steps
📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com 🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #identity #trauma #selfadvocacy #maladaptivetraits #selflove #personalgrowth #healingjourney #childhoodtrauma #emotionalhealing #addictionrecovery
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

How the Law of Attraction Helped Her Get Sober and More with Dr. Cali Estes

Reflection Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15diAwynpKXl-VztfwRitsYZZRGBobrmw/view?usp=drive_linkDr. Cali Estes websites: The Addictions Academy www.TheAddictionsAcademy.comThe Addictions Coach www.TheAddictionCoachOnline.comSober On Demand www.SoberOnDemand.comUnPause Your Life www.UnPauseYourLife.comSummary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read welcomes Dr. Callie Estes, a prominent figure in addiction recovery who challenges traditional rehab models. With over 27 years of experience, Dr. Estes discusses the flaws in conventional treatment approaches, emphasizing that many mental health issues may stem from physical causes. She critiques the reliance on quick diagnoses and medications, advocating for a more holistic approach that considers the individual's physical, mental, and social circumstances. Dr. Estes shares her journey from working in maximum security prisons to coaching high-profile clients, highlighting the need for personalized recovery strategies that address core issues rather than just symptoms.
Dr. Estes also opens up about her own struggles with addiction, detailing her transformation from a troubled college student to a successful recovery coach. She explains how her experiences shaped her understanding of addiction and recovery, leading her to develop innovative methods that incorporate physical health, emotional well-being, and trauma resolution. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of creating new neural pathways to replace harmful habits and the necessity of letting go of past traumas to achieve lasting recovery. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of addiction, recovery, and the potential for personal transformation. In this episode, Dr. Cali Estes shares her insights on addiction recovery and the importance of understanding the underlying causes of substance use. She emphasizes that many individuals believe they need drugs to cope, but often, it's just a routine that can be disrupted. By exploring the 'why' behind their habits, clients can break free from their dependencies and create a new blueprint for their lives. Dr. Estes also discusses her unique approach to recovery, which includes a variety of techniques such as blood work to uncover physical issues that may contribute to addiction, and the significance of intention, gratitude, and action in manifesting change through the law of attraction.
The conversation delves into the idea that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Dr. Estes encourages listeners to find their own path, whether through traditional meetings, alternative therapies, or personal exploration. She shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity, including homelessness and the loss of her husband, and how these experiences shaped her into a successful recovery coach. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that balance is key to maintaining sanity and well-being, urging listeners to prioritize their needs and find harmony in their lives.
Takeaways
Traditional rehab often blames clients for not being ready.90% of mental illness may actually be physical issues.Medication is not a one-size-fits-all solution for anxiety.Trauma can be re-triggered through traditional therapy methods.Creating new neural pathways is essential for recovery. You don't need the drug you think you need.If you can do something different for 32 days, you can break whatever bad habit you have.Everything you need is vibrational energy.Every pathway to recovery or sobriety is okay.It's okay to try and fail.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to a New Approach in Recovery01:50 Understanding Mental Illness Beyond Medication02:48 The Importance of Time in Recovery04:13 Innovative Techniques in Addiction Treatment05:21 The Impact of Trauma on Recovery05:50 Reevaluating Therapy and Treatment Models06:44 Personal Journey: From Addiction to Recovery07:54 The Role of Food and Body Image in Addiction09:48 Finding Sobriety Through Unconventional Methods12:25 The Shift in Perspective on Food and Health13:49 The Complexity of Triggers in Addiction16:16 Building a New Lifestyle Post-Recovery18:17 Social Pressures and Recovery Challenges19:58 The Social Experiment of Recovery21:28 Transforming Anger into Fuel23:20 The Shift from Resentment to Gratitude25:18 Creating New Neuro Pathways27:41 Understanding the Root of Addiction30:12 Empowering Change Through Action32:04 The Journey of Building a Recovery Empire34:07 Law of Attraction and Intentional Living40:19 Overcoming Fear of Change42:58 Manifesting Your Desires45:56 Finding Personal Validation48:35 Breaking Free from Familiar Patterns51:29 The Importance of Persistence in Recovery54:29 Breathing Techniques and Mental Health57:14 The Complexity of Addiction59:56 Retrieving Sanity Through Balance#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #addiction #addictionrecovery#recoveryjourney #recoveryempire #lawofattraction#soberlife #sober #personalgrowth #personaltransformation#holistichealing
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

Sobriety Doesn't Make Everything Better.... At First with Patrick Casey Jr.

Get the Reflection Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/140N6QXM3jjB02EIASIZxEyN5C3WSLpLR/view?usp=drive_linkCheck out his website here for Sober help: https://patrickcaseyjr.com/
Summary
In this conversation, Keegan Read and Patrick Casey delve into the complexities of recovery from addiction, exploring themes of childhood trauma, the importance of self-love, and the role of desperation in seeking help. Patrick shares his personal journey from addiction to sobriety, highlighting the significance of building a supportive network and understanding one's higher power. The discussion emphasizes the need for mental hygiene and the continuous journey of healing and growth, encouraging listeners to nurture their inner child and practice self-compassion. In this conversation, Patrick Casey and Keegan Read explore the profound impact of emotional expression on recovery and personal growth. They discuss the importance of allowing oneself to cry, the necessity of breaking down emotional barriers, and the journey of overcoming victim mentality. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of gratitude, self-discovery, and the lessons learned from past relationships, all while encouraging listeners to embrace their emotions as a vital part of healing.
Takeaways
Recovery is a journey that often begins with desperation.Childhood trauma can significantly impact adult behavior and self-perception.Sobriety is not just about abstaining from substances; it's about healing emotional wounds.Building a supportive network is crucial for long-term recovery.Understanding one's higher power can provide strength in recovery.Self-love is essential for overcoming past trauma and addiction.Mental hygiene practices can help maintain emotional well-being.Negative self-talk can hinder recovery and personal growth.It's important to parent oneself and nurture the inner child.Healing is a continuous process that requires self-compassion. Hurt people often hurt others, emphasizing the cycle of pain.Emotional healing requires feeling and processing emotions.Crying is a natural and necessary part of recovery.Anger is a valid emotion that needs healthy expression.Victim mentality can hinder personal growth and recovery.Past relationships can shape current behaviors and reactions.Gratitude can enhance the recovery journey and personal well-being.Self-discovery is a continuous process in recovery.It's important to seek help and support from others.Emotional vulnerability can lead to deeper connections and healing.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Self-Discovery02:30 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact05:34 The Turning Point: A Wake-Up Call07:36 The Journey Through Rehab and Early Sobriety09:59 Finding Purpose in Helping Others11:45 Navigating Relationships in Recovery14:01 The Importance of Community and Support17:35 The Role of Higher Power in Recovery18:26 The Gift of Desperation19:26 Desperation and Recovery21:13 Rewiring the Brain23:14 Emotional Triggers and Responses24:16 Quality of Recovery26:09 Parenting Ourselves28:04 The Importance of Vulnerability29:17 Feeling to Heal31:09 Crying as a Healing Tool32:56 Breaking Down Emotional Barriers39:13 The Journey of Healing and Recovery40:51 Overcoming Victim Mentality41:49 Failure to Thrive in Recovery43:52 The Importance of Self-Reflection45:38 Learning from Past Relationships47:29 The Role of Desperation in Change49:14 The Power of Experience50:31 Sharing Wisdom and Support55:32 Practices for Daily Gratitude#retrievingsanity #mentalhealthpodcast #recoverypodcast #recovery #addiction #addictionrecovery #traumahealing #selfdiscovery #childhoodtrauma #sobriety #selflove #supportnetwork #higherpower #healingjourney #vulnerability #cry #gratitude #victimmentality #relationships
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

Reclaiming Identity Through Sexual Exploration with Xanet Pailet

Sacred Pleasure Reflection Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1soQSCXNmOkTN_jwsfw-IZE4tjJt8wO92/view?usp=sharing Check out Xanet's website here: https://www.howtoimprovemylovelife.com/
In this engaging conversation, Keegan Read and Xanet Paylette explore the intricate relationship between sex and mental health. Xanet shares her personal journey from experiencing shame and trauma to becoming a sex and intimacy educator. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, the healing power of tantra, and the need to redefine sex beyond traditional norms. The conversation emphasizes the significance of open discussions about sexuality and the impact of personal transformation on relationships. In this conversation, Xanet and Keegan explore the intricate relationship between intimacy, vulnerability, and emotional safety. They discuss the importance of redefining intimacy, addressing body image issues, and the foundational role of emotional connection in sexual relationships. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of understanding different intimacy styles, creating emotional safety through eye contact, and the healing process for trauma. They also touch on the role of touch in trauma recovery and the importance of nervous system regulation for mental health and intimacy.
Takeaways
Sex and mental health are deeply interconnected.Shame trauma can significantly impact one's relationship with sex.Intimacy issues often arise in long-term relationships.Personal transformation can stem from exploring sexuality.Tantra can provide a safe space for sexual exploration.Reclaiming identity is crucial for healing from trauma.Vulnerability is a key component of intimacy.The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and evolving.Empowerment can come from redefining oneself.Open discussions about sex can lead to better mental health. Taking risks can lead to significant life changes.Shame is a major barrier to discussing sex openly.Normalizing conversations about sex can empower individuals.Redefining sex can broaden the understanding of intimacy.Performance pressure can hinder sexual experiences.Emotional safety is crucial for vulnerability in relationships.Understanding intimacy styles can enhance connections.And More!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sex and Mental Health03:01 Shame and Trauma in Sexuality05:59 The Impact of Marriage on Intimacy09:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery12:02 Transformation Through Tantra14:57 Reclaiming Identity and Empowerment19:32 Taking Risks and Embracing Change23:11 Normalizing Conversations About Sex27:49 The Pressure to Perform in Sexual Relationships34:45 Understanding Intimacy Styles37:55 Creating Emotional Connection Through Vulnerability39:57 Creating Safety in the Body41:45 The Journey of Trauma Recovery42:40 Empowerment Through Touch44:00 Understanding Trauma Release46:13 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation48:00 Upcoming Book and Future Conversations49:02 The Pleasure Principle Quickfire Game53:31 Retrieving Sanity and Daily Practices57:51 Pleasure as a Birthright
#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #sex #pleasure #intimacy #tantra #tantrahealing #emotionalhealing #healingjourney #identityjourney #sacredpleasure
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

Retrieving Sanity Trailer v.3

For more info and a list of guests with their episodes, head on over to retrievingsanity.comLet's help get addiction and trauma recovery to everyone, and let them know, they are not alone!
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

Our Pets Can Teach Us About Mental Health with Dr. Jeff Feinman

Upload days are changing! Monday and Friday/Saturday should be the new normal.
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with Dr. Jeff Feinman, a holistic veterinarian and molecular biologist, to explore the intersection of mental health, pet wellness, and the science of healing. Dr. Feinman shares his personal journey of living with undiagnosed symptoms for 35 years and how it shaped his understanding of health. The conversation delves into the BEAM approach to assessing pet wellness, the importance of energy flow, and how pets can mirror their owners' emotional states. Dr. Feinman emphasizes the need to embrace symptoms as clues to underlying issues and discusses practical strategies for improving the health and happiness of both pets and their owners.
Takeaways
Dr. Feinman's journey highlights the importance of understanding symptoms.The BEAM approach focuses on behavior, energy, appetite, and mood in pets.Pets can reflect their owners' emotional states and symptoms.Embracing symptoms can lead to better health outcomes.Energy flow is crucial for overall wellness in both pets and humans.Tracking health through journaling can provide valuable insights.Mitochondria play a significant role in health and energy balance.The Holistic Actions Happiness Protocol emphasizes joy and engagement for pets.Letting animals lead their healing can enhance their well-being.Connection with pets can help retrieve sanity and improve mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Holistic Pet Wellness02:41 Understanding Symptoms: A Personal Perspective04:48 The Science of Symptoms and Positive Psychology07:25 Embracing Symptoms: The Silent SOS09:32 BEME: A New Approach to Pet Health15:29 Scientific Wellness: A Paradigm Shift in Medicine19:30 The Importance of Energy Balance in Health21:32 Therapeutic Approaches: Helping Pets Heal24:30 The Happiness Protocol: Enhancing Pet Well-being26:11 Letting Animals Lead: The Sniff Walk Concept28:25 Understanding Safety and Freedom in Animals30:54 The Complexity of Aggression in Pets33:31 Training vs. Bonding: A New Approach to Pet Behavior37:01 Consciousness and Connection: The Energetic Link with Pets44:05 Retrieving Sanity: The Role of Animals in Mental Health#retrievingsanity #mentalhealthpodcast #recoverypodcast #emotionalhealing #holistichealing #pethealth #BEAM #healingjourney #pets #dogs #animals #nature #humaninteractions
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

Creating Your Own Reality with Dale Walsh & Andrew

With the New Year of 2026, we are moving upload days from Sunday & Thursday to Monday evening and Friday/Saturday Evening.
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with Dale Walsh and Andrew about mental health, spirituality, and the journey of self-discovery. They explore the importance of connection, the role of shame in personal growth, and the power of presence. The discussion also touches on the creation of a new calendar, the balance of expansion and contraction in life, and the significance of co-creation in relationships. The episode emphasizes the need for inner work and the potential for miracles in everyday life, culminating in a call to embrace one's own power and creativity.
Takeaways
The podcast serves as a platform for discussing mental health and addiction recovery.Dale and Andrew's friendship blossomed through shared experiences and mutual interests.The concept of 'conspiracy' is redefined as breathing together and connecting.Presence and connection are vital for personal growth and healing.Humor plays an essential role in navigating spirituality and mental health.Creating a new calendar symbolizes a fresh start and new perspectives.Shame can hinder personal growth, but acknowledging it is crucial for healing.Co-creation in relationships enhances the experience of life.Miracles are possible when one is open to them.The balance of expansion and contraction is necessary for a fulfilling life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests02:30 The Birth of a New Podcast04:56 The Power of Connection and Friendship07:35 Exploring Spirituality and Synchronicity10:14 The Journey of Co-Creation13:02 Humor in Spirituality and Mental Health15:12 Innovative Concepts in Time and Reality18:09 Insights from Spiritual Teachings20:36 Understanding Complex Ideas23:23 The Beauty of Nature and Co-Creation26:20 Miracles and the Nature of Reality28:53 The Power of Personal Responsibility30:56 Expansion vs. Contraction: The Balance of Life33:23 Finding Presence in Human Connection34:57 The Journey of Healing and Transformation37:30 Year Zero: A New Beginning39:25 Creating a Utopian Reality40:26 The Role of Safety in Personal Growth41:20 Embracing Our Inner Power48:24 Overcoming Shame and Guilt53:57 The Synergy of Connection and Creation📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com 🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week Mental Health Podcast
#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #reality #schizophrenia #dale #creatingreality #recovery #abstract #mentalhealth #religion
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