Retrieving Sanity | Mental Health & Recovery from Addictions and Traumas

"Recovery focused healing from addictions and traumas with personal experiences."
Hey there! My name is Keegan, Host of ”Retrieving Sanity”, a podcast aiming to become a non-profit for mental health resources and services for veterans, people struggling with homelessness, addiction, and traumas. Are you looking to help kick an addiction? Maybe you've got some traumas you'd like to heal from? There's plenty of that to be found here, and we're just getting started!
I want you to know, whatever it is you're going through; you're not alone and there is someone willing to help. I know in the middle of it all, it seems crazy and never-ending, so that's why me and my guests are here to walk with you and show you the ways out.
If you like what you hear, leave a comment, subscribe to the YouTube Channel, and check us out on air on WDJY 99.1 FM (Every Friday 7am EST) or on Reveel!
Get the merch here!
Retrieving Sanity is here to help you pick up the pieces of yourself, reclaim your mental sovereignty, and together, we can help make the world a better place, one conversation at a time!
Check out https://www.retrievingsanity.com for a list of all guests and their websites!
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



Thursday Apr 10, 2025
The Mind-Body Connection and Cancer Coaching with Shruti Sethi
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
In this episode, Keegan Read speaks with Shruti Sethi, a cancer survivor and coach, about her journey through cancer and the holistic methods she employs to help others heal. Shruti emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul, and shares her insights on nutrition, lifestyle changes, and the importance of emotional health in preventing and recovering from cancer. She encourages listeners to take responsibility for their health and to seek support in their healing journeys.
Takeaways
Healing is possible if you take responsibility for your health.Cancer develops over time, not overnight.Mind, body, and soul are interconnected in health.Lifestyle changes can significantly impact cancer recovery.Nutrition plays a crucial role in preventing cancer.Stress management is essential for overall health.Gratitude and mindfulness can transform your life.Personal responsibility is key in health management.Building a support system is vital for healing.You can live a fulfilling life after cancer.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Healing and Responsibility02:47 Shruti's Cancer Journey and Lifestyle Factors05:21 Holistic Health and Mind-Body Connection07:52 The Power of Intuition and Personal Transformation10:49 The Growing Cancer Epidemic and Environmental Factors13:33 Lifestyle Changes for Cancer Prevention16:21 Understanding Food Labels and Nutrition18:41 The Impact of Processed Foods and Plastics21:14 Mindset and Gratitude in Healing24:20 Embracing Acceptance and Emotional Release27:08 Transformative Power of Cancer28:36 Becoming a Cancer Coach31:04 Holistic Healing and Nutrition32:45 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Success33:55 The Importance of Listening36:21 Understanding Root Causes of Cancer40:59 The Role of Stress in Cancer50:57 Final Thoughts on Health and Wellness#cancer #healing #coaching #holistichealth #mindset #prevention #lifestylechanges #emotionalhealth #retrievingsanity #podcast #interview
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 Apr 06, 2025
#1 Official Intro to Retrieving Sanity
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Hello hello and welcome to Retrieving Sanity, and I'm your host, Keegan.
This is a re-do of a 13 minute intro to the podcast when I had little-to-no-idea of what I was doing. Quick highlights of the podcasts' history are noted and condensed. Here's the whole script if you want to read it yourself.
"Here on Retrieving Sanity, we talk to everyday people getting their stories of triumph, from situations, addictions, circumstances, or even themselves and how they came to improve their life and seek to help others do the same. We also speak with mental health experts to get their perspectives and experiences to help us better understand The Human Condition and how we can Retrieve some Sanity in our Lives. This is the second Official Intro, a re-do, to mark the growth of the podcast since its inception in January of '23. Early episodes depict myself exploring aspects of Recovery and some early interviews that helped pave the way to getting the show on the air. A little later, I'm joined with my co-host, Simba, as we discuss Recovery, and what Life situations we've handled. Simba had to take a leave for an undetermined amount of time, but he will return for some specials when he is able! Now, with listener and guest feedback, the episodes will have more prominent conversational aspect as opposed to being more narrative to really get to know our guests and pick their brains. Be sure to check out retrievingsanity.com for a list of guests that have been on the show and all of their links, and if you want to be on the show, just email me which you can find on the website. Episodes will be released on Sundays and Thursdays to accommodate the influx of guests that I've had recently. Livestreams will be on Podbean on Saturdays near the evening if I'm able, and interviews shall be livestreamed which could be found on Youtube. Thank you for listening, and please leave this episode a like or comment to let me know you made it all the way through! Also, could I ask you, my favorite listener, to please rate the podcast after listening to a few episodes, and subscribe if you want to hear more! I appreciate each and everyone of you that listen, and I hope to bring better content as the podcast continues to grow! Thank you again, and much love. Slan!"#podcast #retrievingsanity #introduction #beginning #middle #mentalhealth #addiction #recovery #trauma #depression #anxiety
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 Apr 06, 2025
Vulnerable Strength with Malisa Hepner
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with Melissa Hepner about vulnerability, healing from childhood trauma, and the importance of emotional availability. Melissa shares her personal journey through trauma, the impact of her upbringing, and the struggles with perfectionism and shame. They discuss the significance of holding space for emotions, the process of self-discovery, and the necessity of authenticity in healing. The conversation culminates in Melissa's framework for living a fulfilling life, emphasizing the need to quiet the noise, connect with oneself, and embody one's true light.#trauma #childhoodtrauma #shame #perfectionism #mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #fulfilling
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Vulnerability and Strength01:34 Melissa's Childhood Trauma Story05:40 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact10:55 Healing from Generational Wounds16:10 The Journey of Self-Compassion21:24 Identifying and Processing Emotions23:46 Using Personal Experience to Help Others24:42 Authenticity in Therapy27:24 The Struggle with Emotional Expression30:36 Understanding Gender Differences in Emotionality33:18 The Power of Storytelling36:40 Building Connections Through Vulnerability39:22 Navigating Uncomfortable Feelings43:11 The Impact of Betrayal and Rejection46:41 Embracing Happiness and Healing48:50 Framework for a Fulfilling Life53:04 Exploring Vulnerable Strength53:05 Mental Health and Cancer Coaching
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 Apr 06, 2025
The Illusion of Relief in Mental Health Treatment with Dr. Fred Moss
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Fred Moss, a seasoned psychiatrist and mental health advocate. Dr. Moss shares his journey from a chaotic childhood to becoming a healer, emphasizing the importance of communication in mental health. He discusses the impact of psychiatric medications, particularly Prozac, and critiques the prevailing chemical imbalance theory. The conversation explores the flaws in psychiatric treatments, the illusion of relief they provide, and the long-term effects on patients.#mentalhealth #medication #prozac #diagnosis #un-doctor #retrievingsanity #communication #connection
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Fred Moss and His Journey00:45 Dr. Fred's Early Life and Communication Challenges05:41 Transition to Psychiatry and Early Experiences10:05 The Impact of Prozac and the Chemical Imbalance Theory14:26 The Flaws in Psychiatric Medications17:51 The Illusion of Relief from Medications22:42 Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Psychiatric Drugs25:08 The Journey to Self-Acceptance26:34 Understanding Misdiagnosis and Treatment27:31 Life's Challenges and Perceptions of Normalcy29:15 The Impact of Environment on Mental Health31:53 The Dangers of Labels and Diagnoses33:30 Identity and the Influence of Labels35:13 Psychosis and Reality Perception37:23 The Regenerative Power of the Human Mind38:32 The Limits of Human Knowledge40:06 Ego, Pride, and the Quest for Knowledge42:21 Healing Through Connection48:25 Unlearning and Embracing Humanity53:58 Finding Your True Voice55:09 Embracing Human Experience58:18 The Importance of Authenticity01:00:37 Lessons from Nature01:01:32 Finding Our True Voice01:01:43 The Power of Vulnerability
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 Apr 03, 2025
Healing From a Decade Addiction with Blake Hunt
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Blake Hunt, a recovery therapist and person in recovery. They discuss Blake's journey through addiction, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of empathy in recovery. Blake shares his experiences of hitting rock bottom, surrendering to help, and ultimately finding purpose in his work as a therapist, helping others navigate their own recovery journeys. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Blake Hunt explore the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing themes of structure, acceptance, and the importance of making amends. They share personal experiences that highlight the ongoing journey of recovery, the significance of community support, and the aspirations for future contributions to the field of addiction treatment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for humility, the power of connection, and the role of surrender in the recovery process.
Chapters (If you care)
00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Mental Health04:54 The Impact of Family Dynamics10:23 Hitting Rock Bottom14:08 The Turning Point: Surrendering to Help17:24 Becoming a Recovery Therapist21:27 Navigating Recovery Milestones24:20 Imposter Syndrome in Therapy28:17 Finding Common Ground in Recovery31:16 The Need to Be Heard33:12 Childhood Influences on Adult Behavior35:10 Balancing Structure and Freedom38:51 Navigating Structure and Control in Recovery39:58 Acceptance and Adaptation in Life41:39 The Journey of Making Amends43:58 The Power of Connection and Understanding45:58 Future Aspirations in Recovery48:57 Setting Directions Without Timelines50:50 Addressing Addiction and Community Needs53:12 The Role of Surrender in Recovery54:47 Resources and Support in Recovery57:35 Blake ending
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!
Check out Blake's stuff here: https://www.blakehuntrecovery.com/Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast#recovery #addiction #support #therapy #12steps #retrievingsanity #healing
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 Mar 30, 2025
From Shadows to Light: The Story of Intergenerational Trauma
Sunday Mar 30, 2025
Sunday Mar 30, 2025
Summary In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Willie Handler, a descendant of Holocaust survivors and author of 'Out From the Shadows.' Willie shares his journey of uncovering his family's history, the impact of intergenerational trauma, and the transformative process of writing his memoir. He discusses the challenges of growing up in a household affected by trauma and how it shaped his life. The conversation delves into the importance of storytelling and community healing, as Willie embarks on a new project addressing the hidden victims of trauma. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Willie Handler explore the complexities of intergenerational trauma, particularly in the context of Holocaust survivors. They discuss how trauma can be passed down through generations, the importance of breaking the cycle, and the emotional toll of sharing personal stories. Willie shares his experiences interviewing survivors and the challenges of understanding their childhoods, while also reflecting on his own relationship with his parents and the impact of their experiences on his life. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, support, and therapy in navigating these difficult topics. In this conversation, Willie Handler shares his journey of finding the right therapist, managing trauma, and the importance of storytelling in making a difference in others' lives. He discusses the challenges of healing from trauma, emphasizing that while trauma may not fully heal, it can be managed. The conversation also touches on the significance of seeking help and the resources available for mental health support. You can find Willie's website Here#trauma #traumahealing #mentalhealth #podcast #interview #retrievingsanity #intergenerationaltrauma #holocausteducation
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!
Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!
Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! 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 Mar 27, 2025
A Surgeons Addiction : Brett’s Story
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
SummaryIn this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Brett Cortez, a retired physician whose life was dramatically altered by opiate addiction. Brett shares his journey from a successful medical career to the depths of addiction, detailing the pivotal moments that led to his struggles and eventual recovery. The conversation explores themes of personal experience, the impact of addiction, the importance of willingness in recovery, and the role of a higher power in the healing process. In this episode, Keegan and Brett delve into the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing the importance of sponsorship, the nature of addiction as a choice versus a circumstance, and the significance of community support. They share personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and lessons learned throughout their journeys, emphasizing the need to avoid the first drink and recognizing addictive behaviors. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding addiction compared to other illnesses, and the importance of building supportive relationships in recovery. Brett shares valuable insights and wisdom from his experiences, reinforcing the idea that recovery is a continuous journey that requires self-awareness and community support.takeaways
Brett found common ground with others in rehab.
His upbringing emphasized academics and achievement.
A cancer diagnosis led him to pursue medicine.
Opiates were first introduced during his cancer treatment.
Boredom became a significant trigger for his addiction.
He began stealing medication from patients.
Recovery started after a 90-day rehab stint.
The gift of desperation is crucial for recovery.
Willingness is essential for making progress in recovery.
Building a relationship with a higher power is important. Working with a sponsor is a personal relationship.
Addiction is not a choice; it's a disease.
Avoiding the first drink is crucial in recovery.
Personal experiences shape our understanding of addiction.
Stigma around addiction differs from other illnesses.
Community support is vital for recovery.
Friendships can change during recovery.
Addiction is often viewed as a moral failing.
Recognizing addictive behaviors is essential.
Recovery requires ongoing self-awareness and support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Addiction Recovery
02:59 Brett's Journey: From Surgeon to Addiction
05:56 The Impact of Opiates on Brett's Life
08:57 Boredom and Triggers in Addiction
11:55 The Downward Spiral of Addiction
15:01 Recovery Begins: The Role of Rehab
18:13 The Gift of Desperation and Willingness
20:56 Practicing Willingness and Building Trust
23:59 The Importance of a Higher Power
25:33 The Role of Sponsorship in Recovery
28:09 Understanding Addiction: Choice vs. Circumstance
29:46 The Importance of Avoiding the First Drink
33:15 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons Learned
37:19 The Stigma of Addiction vs. Other Illnesses
40:15 Building a Supportive Recovery Community
43:00 Friendships and Relationships in Recovery
45:08 The Moral Perspective on Addiction
51:27 Recognizing Addictive Behaviors
57:22 Wisdom from Recovery Experiences
#addiction #recovery #addictionrecovery #opiate #drugs #alcoholism #desperatation #cancer #fight #onedayatatime
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!
Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
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 Mar 23, 2025
Breaking Schizophrenia Stereotypes with Dale Walsh
Sunday Mar 23, 2025
Sunday Mar 23, 2025
SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Dale Walsh shares his profound journey through mental health challenges, particularly schizophrenia. He discusses his unique approach to poetry as a means of expression, the misconceptions surrounding mental illness, and the vital role of family support and therapy in his recovery. Dale also reflects on his personal history, the impact of societal perceptions, and his journey of self-reinvention, all while maintaining a humorous and insightful perspective on life. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Dale E Walsh explore the complexities of living with schizophrenia, touching on themes of self-perception, the impact of mental illness on relationships, and the importance of education for families. Dale shares his personal experiences with hospitalizations, coping strategies, and the humor he finds in his condition. The discussion emphasizes the need to challenge stereotypes surrounding mental illness and the significance of response versus reaction in managing relationships with loved ones. Dale also shares his aspirations for the future, including writing projects and personal growth.Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dale Walsh and His Journey
02:55 The Poetic Expression of Mental Health
06:02 Understanding Schizophrenia and Its Misconceptions
08:58 Family Dynamics and Support in Mental Health
11:57 The Role of Therapy in Recovery
15:00 The Impact of Personal History on Mental Health
17:57 Reinventing Oneself: The Journey of Dale Walsh
20:59 Conspiracies and Generational Perspectives
27:39 Perceptions of Self and Others
28:47 Understanding Schizophrenia
30:46 Living with Schizophrenia
32:56 Hospitalizations and Rebirths
34:10 Finding Humor in Schizophrenia
37:29 Response vs. Reaction
39:23 Educating Families
40:45 Breaking Codependency
41:34 Future Aspirations
54:07 Challenging Stereotypes
Visit: https://www.dewlivelove.net/
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!
Be sure to check out Retrievingsanity.com for all past guest resources!Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis! 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









