Retrieving Sanity | Recovery from Addictions and Traumas
Are you tired of feeling stuck in toxic cycles? Whether you are battling addiction, healing from trauma, or trying to reclaim your mental sovereignty, you don't have to walk the path alone.
Hosted by Keegan Read, Retrieving Sanity is a deep-dive recovery podcast featuring raw personal stories and expert insights from the fields of mental health and personal development. We explore the past without staying there, giving you the tools to overcome substance abuse, defeat alcohol problems, and foster personal growth.
From veterans to those struggling with homlessness, we are building a community dedicated to healing the world one conversation at a time.
Connect with the Mission:
- Watch on TV: Catch us on Reveel!
- Listen on Radio: WDJY 99.1 FM (Fridays 7am EST)
- Resources & Guest Profiles: https://retrievingsanity.com
- Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread
- Merch: https://retrieving-sanity-shop.fourthwall.com
Retrieving Sanity is more than a podcast; it's a journey toward reclaiming your life!
Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
Are you tired of feeling stuck in toxic cycles? Whether you are battling addiction, healing from trauma, or trying to reclaim your mental sovereignty, you don't have to walk the path alone.
Hosted by Keegan Read, Retrieving Sanity is a deep-dive recovery podcast featuring raw personal stories and expert insights from the fields of mental health and personal development. We explore the past without staying there, giving you the tools to overcome substance abuse, defeat alcohol problems, and foster personal growth.
From veterans to those struggling with homlessness, we are building a community dedicated to healing the world one conversation at a time.
Connect with the Mission:
- Watch on TV: Catch us on Reveel!
- Listen on Radio: WDJY 99.1 FM (Fridays 7am EST)
- Resources & Guest Profiles: https://retrievingsanity.com
- Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread
- Merch: https://retrieving-sanity-shop.fourthwall.com
Retrieving Sanity is more than a podcast; it's a journey toward reclaiming your life!
Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
"This is unreal that this is my life." Matt Von Boecklin sat down with Keegan Read to share how a massive health scare became the ultimate wake-up call, leading to the creation of the QuitKit. Whether you are struggling with Kratom, nicotine, or substance dependence, this episode explores the innovative mechanics of recovery and the vital role of self-love.
Learn how to change your relationship with substances and find a path to spiritual health and joy.
Key Topics
Mechanics of addiction and withdrawalThe development and impact of QuitKitThe role of hope and self-love in recoveryRisks of kratom and synthetic supplementsPractical activities to build resilience and joyThe importance of changing relationships with substances
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Innovation02:28 The Quit Kit: A Personal Journey05:22 Understanding Kratom and Its Risks08:21 Finding Hope in Recovery11:15 Building a Life Beyond Addiction14:12 Testimonials and Real-Life Impact17:02 The Role of Technology in Recovery20:10 Navigating Challenges in Sobriety28:11 Understanding Addiction and Recovery35:28 The Journey of Quitting Nicotine40:57 Recognizing the Impact of Addiction47:24 Turning Points in Addiction55:14 Hope and Encouragement in RecoveryCheck out the Quit Kit at: https://TryQuitKit.com
Use: RETRIEVE20 for 20% off (No Commissions)📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com
🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week
💸Support the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread
Recovery & Mental Health Podcast
#mentalhealthpodcast #recovery #retrievingsanity #kratomaddiction #kratom #addictionrecovery #recoveryjourney #personalgrowth #personaldevelopment #nicotineaddiction #spiritualhealth #empowerment
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

7 days ago
7 days ago
Is depression "all in the family"? Noah May opens up about the role of genetics, family support, and overcoming the scars of childhood bullying. From journalism to podcasting, learn how Noah turned his personal struggles into a platform for advocacy.
Key Topics
Mental health struggles and personal journeyThe role of family and genetics in depression and anxietyThe significance of tattoos in mental health and healingBreaking stigma and encouraging open conversationsThe impact of childhood bullying and social influences
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Advocacy05:14 Navigating Early Life Challenges13:06 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health16:02 The Importance of Advocacy and Community18:41 Reflections on Bullying and Success23:56 Navigating Personal Struggles and Mental Health27:45 The Role of Struggles in Personal Growth35:11 Tattoos as Symbols of Resilience38:58 Tattoos and Their Meanings44:54 The Journey of Getting Tattoos48:49 Podcasting Journey and Mental Health53:33 Retrieving Sanity and Personal Insights
Be sure to check out his website and podcast over at: https://noahspodcasts.com/
📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com
🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week Recovery & Mental Health Podcast
💸Support the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread
#mentalhealthpodcast #recovery #retrievingsanity #depression #anxiety #tattoos #advocacy #storytelling #stigma #survivor #bullying
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

Monday Mar 02, 2026
Monday Mar 02, 2026
Is your past on autopilot? Sophia Torrini, a trainer under Dr. Joe Dispenza, joins Retrieving Sanity to reveal how your emotional chemistry literally dictates your physical reality. If you feel stuck in cycles of trauma or addiction, this episode is your roadmap to neurologically dismantling those old patterns. We dive deep into why "thoughts are electric and emotions are magnetic," the power of the heart-brain coherence, and how to use EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) to rewrite your subconscious map. It’s time to stop surviving your personality and start creating your reality. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hacking Reality
03:22 The Role of Emotions in Personal Reality
09:30 The Cycle of Betrayal and Healing
12:16 Talk Therapy vs. Emotional Release
16:01 Rewriting Memories and Emotions
19:47 The Connection Between Emotion and Belief
26:46 Building Positive Character Attributes
34:00 The Role of Coherence in Manifestation
41:19 Visualizing Freedom from Addiction
51:34 Creating Lasting ChangeBe sure to check out her website here: https://www.tapintoyourbestself.com/📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com
🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week
Recovery & Mental Health Podcast
#MentalHealthPodcast #Recovery #Neuroplasticity #DrJoeDispenza #Manifestation #MentalHealth #RetrievingSanity #SubconsciousMind #EFT #PersonalTransformation
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

Friday Feb 27, 2026
Friday Feb 27, 2026
Are you tired of "watered-down" love? In this episode, relationship coach and Reiki master Violet Lange joins Retrieving Sanity to discuss how to rewire your brain and heart for authentic connection. We dive deep into healing attachment styles, overcoming trauma, and why self-trust is the ultimate foundation for love.
Key Topics
The intersection of analytical mind and spiritual heartRedefining love beyond scarcity and watered-down versionsHealing attachment styles and rewiring traumaThe role of chakras and energy centers in loveAuthentic self-expression and embodiment in relationshipsUsing metaphysical tools like pendulums and crystals in datingThe importance of self-trust and boundary settingNavigating the spiritual and cultural influences on love
Chapters01:54 Redefining Love: Beyond Niceness04:59 Violet's Journey: From Trauma to Transformation08:07 The Impact of Expectations on Identity11:00 Navigating Connection in a Digital Age19:13 Navigating Attachment Styles and Self-Discovery21:56 The Journey of Trust and Self-Acceptance24:49 Mind, Heart, and Body Connection28:48 Empowerment and the Feminine Principle33:33 Embodying Pleasure and Emotional Awareness38:25 Trusting Your Path and Personal Growth40:41 Embracing External Wisdom for Personal Growth42:04 Setting Intentions for Authentic Connections43:23 Navigating Fear and Trust in Relationships44:43 Exploring Spiritual Practices for Intuition48:14 The Love Alchemist Lightning Round: Dating Scenarios55:42 Understanding the Goldilocks Phase in Relationships57:49 Retrieving Sanity: Connecting to WholenessCheck out her website: https://violetlange.com/
Her podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/violet-langes-pleasure-path/id1439037845
#Recovery #AttachmentStyles #RelationshipAdvice #MentalHealth #HealingTrauma #VioletLange #RetrievingSanity #SelfLove
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

Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
How to Use Music as a Toll for Trauma Recovery | Solo
Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Summary
Keegan explores the emotional power of music, how it ties to memories, trauma, and healing, and offers insights on reclaiming music's positive influence in our lives.
Key Topics
Music and emotional memoryTrauma and music associationHealing through music and self-awareness
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Music and Memory00:07 The Emotional Impact of Music02:53 Reclaiming Music After Heartbreak05:43 The Connection Between Music and Memory07:53 Understanding Music's Influence on Emotions10:43 Healing Through Music13:15 Navigating Painful Memories with Music16:00 The Role of Acceptance in Healing18:53 Finding Strength in Music21:33 The Therapeutic Nature of Music24:00 Conclusion and EncouragementSupport the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com
🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week
Recovery & Mental Health Podcast
#mentalhealthpodcast #recovery #retrievingsanity #music #traumarecovery #recoveryjourney
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

Monday Feb 23, 2026
Monday Feb 23, 2026
Summary of this Sanity Journey
In this insightful interview, Daniela Wolfe explores the nuanced relationship between passion, boundaries, and burnout. She shares practical strategies for achieving balance, understanding the eight pillars of self-care, and transforming mindset to prevent burnout and foster thriving.Daniela Wolfe's website: https://www.bestdlife.com/
Key Topics
The relationship between passion and burnoutThe eight pillars of self-careThe exhausted to empowered formulaMindset shifts for burnout prevention
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Burnout: A Hidden Threat02:38 The Importance of Balance in Passion05:35 Daniella's Journey Through Burnout08:34 Defining Balance: Resilience and Adaptation11:24 Mental Fitness: Training Your Mind14:24 The Eight Pillars of Self-Care19:16 Responding vs. Reacting: The Importance of Self-Care21:31 Mindset Matters: Changing Your Thought Process25:14 Rethinking Money: From Evil to Tool29:09 Time Planning: Prioritizing Self-Care35:32 Sustainable Self-Care: Making Time for Yourself37:40 The Importance of Movement in Daily Life39:12 Mindset, Time Planning, and Self-Care Synergy41:16 Breaking Free from Unproductive Habits45:51 Recognizing and Overcoming Burnout47:39 The Necessity of Daily Self-Care50:07 Asking for Help and Overcoming Hyper-Independence52:45 Retrieving Sanity: Embracing Self-CareSupport the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com 🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week #retrievingsanity #mentalhealthpodcast #selfcare #balance #mentalfitness #boundaries #passion #resilience #timeplanning #selfcompassion #personalgrowth #burnoutrecovery #preventburnout #selfcaretechniques
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

Friday Feb 20, 2026
Friday Feb 20, 2026
Summary
In this insightful interview, Dr. Bruce Chalmer explores the paradoxes of love, stability, and intimacy in relationships, emphasizing the importance of accepting contradictions and embracing life's inherent conflicts. He shares practical wisdom on how to cultivate faith, trust, and resilience in the face of life's uncertainties, drawing from his extensive experience in psychology and therapy. Dr. Bruce Chalmer explores the nature of faith, gratitude, cultural influences on mindset, and the importance of self-awareness in relationships. He shares practical techniques for recognizing and managing emotions, fostering genuine intimacy, and cultivating a resilient mindset to navigate life's challenges.
Dr. Bruce Chalmer's website: https://brucechalmer.com/Key Topics
The paradox of love and passion in relationshipsBalancing stability and intimacy in partnershipsThe role of faith and trust in healing and growthAccepting contradictions as a vital life skillThe importance of tolerating anxiety for intimacyUnderstanding the function of addiction as a coping mechanismThe generative nature of conflict and growthDeveloping faith through exposure to positive influences The skill of recognizing faith and gratitudePracticing gratitude through journaling and mindfulnessCultural influences on mindset and beliefsExpanding perspective by engaging with different culturesThe importance of differentiation in relationshipsManaging emotions and avoiding being a 'dick'The role of self-awareness in communicationUsing physiological tools like pulse oximeters to understand emotional statesThe concept of faith in struggle and sufferingFinding meaning in adversity and the importance of hope
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Relationship Healing00:31 The Passion Paradox Explained02:24 Stability vs. Intimacy in Relationships05:28 Tolerating Anxiety for Intimacy08:29 Conflict as a Part of Life11:13 Embracing Clarity and Uncertainty14:12 Navigating Conflict in Relationships17:11 Accepting Contradictory Truths20:55 The Nature of Conflict and Growth23:16 Understanding Addiction and Its Purpose26:36 The Role of Faith in Relationships29:12 Building Trust and Consistency34:27 Cultural Influences on Mindset38:20 The Importance of Individuality in Relationships40:01 Communication Beyond Techniques41:22 Navigating Anger and Honesty in Relationships42:20 The Dangers of Therapy Speak43:48 Understanding Emotional Triggers45:20 Calming the Mind for Better Communication46:51 The Role of Self-Awareness in Relationships48:44 Finding Meaning in Struggle50:10 The Importance of Faith in Relationships55:47 Exploring Depression and Meaning59:25 Embracing Courage and Vulnerability
Reflection Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Uw8x-UjFXwfU0JR_3_mibT5UuzThwyw1/view?usp=drive_link
Support the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganread#mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #paradox #stability #intimacy #faith #trust #conflict #growth #therapy #gratitude #selfawareness #relationships #emotionalmanagment #resilience #communication #personalgrowth #healingrelationships #couplestherapy
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

Monday Feb 16, 2026
Gaining Self-Worth After Medical Gaslighting with Deborah Weed
Monday Feb 16, 2026
Monday Feb 16, 2026
Support the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganreadDeborah's websites: http://www.selfworthinitiative.net/ http://www.paisleysfashionforest.com/ https://deborahweed1.hopp.to/amazonReflection Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qAemL3NNhGvWenSsJLQS32FFlcK58fYx/view?usp=sharing
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a profound conversation with Deborah Weed, who shares her journey through medical gaslighting and chronic illness. Deborah discusses the importance of self-worth versus self-esteem, the healing power of creative expression, and the necessity of authentic connections in recovery. They explore how trauma can be transformed into empowerment and the impact of disappointment on self-worth. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community support and the role of storytelling in healing, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of sanity as alignment with one's true self.
Takeaways
Medical gaslighting can lead to a loss of self-worth.Self-esteem is based on achievements, while self-worth is intrinsic.Creative expression is essential for healing and self-discovery.Storytelling and theater can help process trauma.Authentic connections are crucial for mental health.Disappointment can deter individuals from pursuing their goals.Helping others can enhance one's sense of purpose.Community support plays a vital role in recovery.Sanity is defined by alignment with one's true self.Self-love is a foundational aspect of mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Medical Gaslighting and Self-Worth02:16 The Journey from Illness to Empowerment05:19 Understanding Self-Esteem vs. Self-Worth08:15 The Role of Creativity in Healing11:20 The Impact of Trauma on Identity14:04 The Dichotomy of Being Seen vs. Unseen17:24 The Pressure of Societal Expectations20:10 Creative Expression as a Healing Tool23:01 Finding Worth Beyond Metrics25:57 The Power of Individual Connection31:19 The Power of Creative Expression37:45 Understanding Disappointment and Its Impact44:59 Self-Worth and Personal Growth50:20 The Journey of Self-Discovery55:10 Defining Sanity and Alignment📣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 #medicalgaslighting #selfworth #creativeexpression #traumarecovery #mentalhealth #empowerment #storytelling #authenticity #communitysupport #personalgrowth #personaldevelopment
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

Friday Feb 13, 2026
The Alchemist of Endurance with John Borden
Friday Feb 13, 2026
Friday Feb 13, 2026
Support the Podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganreadJohn's website: http://www.getpsychedfitness.com/Reflection Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13tyCL9Arw3YL9buXbvPBnLHnMGR2E3E-/view?usp=sharing
Summary
In this episode, Keegan Read welcomes back John Borden, who shares his incredible journey of transformation through endurance running and the use of psychedelics. John discusses his recent achievement of running 100 miles, the mental and physical challenges he faced, and how his mindset shifted from addiction to athleticism. The conversation delves into the importance of community support, the role of psychedelics in enhancing performance, and the personal growth that comes from embracing challenges. John also reflects on his relationship with his father and the impact of kindness from others on his journey. As he looks to the future, John shares his aspirations for even greater challenges ahead, including an Ironman competition.
Takeaways
Your mindset can change your reality.Endurance running can be a transformative experience.Psychedelics can enhance mental clarity and performance.Community support is crucial in personal growth.Digging deep taps into our primal instincts.Gratitude plays a significant role in recovery.Healing involves confronting and embracing the past.Personal challenges can lead to profound insights.The journey of transformation is ongoing and evolving.Setting ambitious goals can inspire others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Transformation02:24 The Journey of Running 100 Miles05:22 Mindset and Mental Resilience08:29 The Role of Psychedelics in Performance11:24 Digging Deep: Personal Challenges and Growth14:25 Strongman Competition and Overcoming Limits17:17 The Power of Presence and Mindfulness21:25 Exploring the Primal Self28:22 The Journey of Self-Discovery35:25 Reflections on Relationships and Redemption41:10 The Power of Support and Kindness43:21 Gratitude and Perspective Shift44:41 The Psyched Circuit Game Show46:35 Reflections on Healing and Recovery48:38 The Alchemist of Endurance51:09 Future Endeavors and Aspirations📣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 #psychedelics #endurance #personalgrowth #communitysupport #running #marathon #addictionrecovery #mindset #fitness
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

Monday Feb 09, 2026
Sober Magic: The Healing Power of Tarot
Monday Feb 09, 2026
Monday Feb 09, 2026
Support the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/keeganreadSarah Potter's website: https://www.iamsarahpotter.com/Reflection Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M3C8Vd6t7cuQnMCOqkDkzWA1YsOLmCWD/view?usp=drive_link
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Sarah Potter, a renowned psychic and tarot reader, about her journey through recovery and the transformative power of tarot. They discuss the importance of self-reflection, the role of rituals in daily life, and how tarot can serve as a tool for understanding oneself better. Sarah shares her insights on the intersection of spirituality and recovery, emphasizing the need for community support and the acceptance of discomfort as part of the healing process. The conversation highlights the ongoing nature of recovery and encourages listeners to embrace their unique paths.
Takeaways
Tarot can help individuals navigate their feelings and relationships.Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth and recovery.Recovery is a multi-dimensional process that requires various tools.Embracing discomfort can lead to personal empowerment.Community support is vital in the recovery journey.Rituals can provide structure and stability in daily life.Vulnerability in sharing one's story can inspire others.Curiosity about oneself can lead to deeper understanding and healing.Change is often challenging but ultimately beneficial.Every small victory in recovery should be celebrated.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tarot and Healing09:13 The Journey of Recovery and Sobriety14:58 The Fool's Journey: Embracing the Unknown20:48 Rituals and Daily Practices for Recovery24:18 Creating a Recovery Toolkit27:04 The Journey of Recovery and Self-Discovery29:36 Embracing Curiosity in Recovery32:03 The Creative Process and Vulnerability35:49 The Role of 12 Steps in Recovery38:29 Living One Day at a Time41:01 Managing Triggers and Discomfort43:51 The Ongoing Nature of Recovery45:58 Spirituality and Recovery54:23 Connecting with the Community📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com 🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week#retrievingsanity #recovery #sobermagic #tarot #selfdiscovery #spirituality #healing #addiction #rituals #community #witchcraft
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









