Retrieving Sanity | Mental Health & Recovery from Addictions and Traumas

Learning Grit & Gratitude the Hard Way with Laura Bratton

Learn Grit & Gratitude from Laura herself over at: https://www.laurabratton.com/ Get the reflection sheet here
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Laura Bratton, who shares her inspiring journey of losing her sight due to a rare eye disease. Laura discusses the emotional challenges she faced, including anxiety and depression, and how she navigated these feelings with the support of her community. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, grit, and gratitude in overcoming adversity and highlights the significance of allowing oneself to grieve while also moving forward. Laura's insights on intuition, self-compassion, and the power of emotions provide valuable lessons for anyone facing their own challenges.
Takeaways
Laura's journey of losing her sight began at age nine.She emphasizes the importance of community support during tough times.Mindfulness helped Laura manage her anxiety and depression.Grit is about acknowledging difficulties and choosing to move forward.It's okay to grieve while also moving forward in life.Self-compassion is crucial for mental wellness.Laura's intuition has strengthened since losing her sight.Emotions should be acknowledged, not shamed.Laura's book, 'Harnessing Courage', shares her life story and insights.Daily practices are essential for maintaining mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Laura's Journey03:04 Navigating Loss of Sight07:52 Emotional Reactions to Blindness10:18 The Power of Mindfulness12:33 Grit and Gratitude in Adversity18:20 Permission to Grieve20:39 Stress and Its Effects22:52 Redefining Grit and Bravery24:03 Understanding Emotions and Control27:21 Holding Space for Emotions29:15 Navigating Emotions and Self-Compassion30:15 Harnessing Courage: A Personal Journey31:29 Daily Practices for Mental Wellness32:56 The Role of Shame in Emotional Health34:55 Understanding and Managing Grief36:19 Visualizing Nature: A Unique Perspective38:59 The Power of Intuition42:01 Empathy and Energy Awareness45:09 The Gratitude Gauntlet: Real-Life Scenarios54:53 Retrieving Sanity: Embracing Our Humanity
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

Self Expression Leads to Profound Recovery with Keegan Read

Mental health can be a huge struggle to handle on your own, and it's even harder when you grow up sacrificing yourself to make others happy. Get the reflection sheet hereGo to retrievingsanity.com for all guests, their websites, and more.
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read delves into the complexities of mental health and addiction recovery, exploring themes of self-acceptance, the impact of societal expectations, and the journey towards liberation from shame. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing one's true self, while also addressing the challenges of conforming to external pressures. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Keegan encourages listeners to prioritize self-love and compassion as essential steps in the healing process.
Takeaways
It's important to embrace the darkness within ourselves.Being true to oneself is liberating and essential for growth.Societal expectations can lead to self-sacrifice and disconnection from our true selves.Childhood experiences shape our emotional responses and coping mechanisms.Healing requires facing our demons rather than running from them.Self-advocacy is crucial in the journey of personal growth.We often act out of our past traumas, not our current age.Accepting oneself is a continuous journey that takes time and effort.Compassion for ourselves leads to compassion for others.Healing is paradoxical; we may push people away while trying to grow.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Self-Discovery02:43 The Impact of Societal Expectations09:20 Childhood Trauma and Emotional Expression16:14 Individuation and Self-Actualization22:59 The Paradox of Healing and Connection#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #recoveryjourney #addictionrecovery #traumarecovery #sacrifice #cptsd #ptsd #selfadvocacy #societalexpectations #liberation #compassion #selfcompassion
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 Self-Acceptance Helps Heal the Traumas That Others Cause with Vanessa Cardenas

Be sure to check out her website hereGet the Reflection Sheet here
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, Keegan Read and Vanessa Cardenas delve into the complexities of healing from betrayal and the importance of resilience. Vanessa shares her personal journey of overcoming betrayal and the development of her Hope Framework, which emphasizes holding on through pain. They discuss the significance of self-love, the role of AI in mental health support, and the importance of recognizing red and green flags in relationships. The conversation culminates in a powerful message about reclaiming one's identity and the journey towards self-acceptance.
Takeaways
Vanessa emphasizes the importance of hope in recovery from betrayal.The Hope Framework consists of holding on, organizing the truth, and protecting boundaries.Self-love is crucial for healing and reclaiming one's identity.Trust and communication are essential in rebuilding relationships.AI can serve as a supportive tool but should not replace human connection.Recognizing red flags in relationships can prevent further pain.Taking small steps is vital in the recovery process.Compliments and positive reinforcement can strengthen relationships.It's important to acknowledge and accept compliments from others.Retrieving sanity involves embracing one's true self and identity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Healing and Resilience02:22 Vanessa's Journey and the Impact of Betrayal05:11 The Power of Storytelling and Sharing Experiences07:57 The Hope Framework: Hold On, Pain Ends10:43 Practical Steps for Overcoming Inner Criticism13:31 Taking Action: The Importance of Small Steps16:23 Building Trust in Yourself and Your Journey19:29 Building Purpose and Accomplishment20:22 The Power of Connection and Understanding21:10 Overcoming Pain and Feeling Stuck23:02 The Relationship Reset: Trusting Yourself24:49 Navigating Relationships Through Challenges25:39 The Importance of Support Groups27:01 Sharing Dreams and Aspirations31:31 The Impact of AI on Mental Health36:14 Creating a Personalized AI for Support40:42 The Role of AI in Personal Guidance42:02 Human Connection vs. AI Interaction43:24 AI as a Temporary Solution45:04 Understanding Emotional Triggers45:50 Red Flags and Green Flags in Relationships48:11 The Importance of Trust and Respect54:09 Retrieving Sanity Through Self-Acceptance
#mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #emotionalhealing #betrayalrecovery #hopeframework #hope #painends #innercritic #relationships #selflove #AIsupport #redflags #greenflags #selfacceptance #selfies
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

Has Your Inner Critic Been Something Else This Whole Time?!?! with Emma Lyons

Emma Lyons just brought a game changer to Retrieving Sanity and the way I look at mental health and recovery from now on. Check out her website here: https://traumamatrix.substack.com/ & https://subscribepage.io/GtaJ5sGet the reflection sheet here @ retrievingsanity.comSummary
In this episode, Keegan Read and Emma Lyons delve into the concept of the inner narcissist and its connection to shame and trauma. Emma shares her personal journey of discovering her role as a scapegoat in a dysfunctional family and how this shaped her understanding of the inner critic as a manifestation of narcissism. They discuss the toxic nature of shame, its role in addiction, and how societal norms perpetuate this cycle. Emma introduces her BREAK method as a practical approach to combat shame and reclaim personal power, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and rejecting the inner narcissist. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Emma Lyons delve into the complex relationship between shame and authenticity. They explore how shame is a learned behavior that inhibits true self-expression and authenticity, often perpetuated by societal norms and family dynamics. Emma emphasizes the importance of recognizing and dismantling shame to reclaim personal power and authenticity. The discussion also touches on the societal implications of shame, particularly in the context of mental health and trauma. Through engaging dialogue and practical insights, they encourage listeners to break free from the shackles of shame and embrace their true selves.
Takeaways
The inner critic can often be an internalized narcissist.Shame is a common tool used to control behavior.Addiction is frequently driven by underlying shame.Conventional wisdom often misguides us about the role of shame.Shame is toxic and does not lead to positive behavior change.The BREAK method can help individuals combat shame effectively.Recognizing the uselessness of shame is crucial for healing.Shame is deeply embedded in societal structures and norms.The cycle of shame can lead to self-destructive behaviors.Empowerment comes from rejecting the inner narcissist.  Shame is a learned behavior, not an innate quality.Authenticity cannot coexist with shame.Shame is a tool of control used by the ego.Breaking free from shame is essential for personal empowerment.Shame perpetuates trauma across generations.The family system plays a crucial role in shaping shame.Recognizing shame is the first step to dismantling it.Self-acceptance is key to overcoming shame.Shame is often projected by others and can be returned to sender.Healing from shame can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Inner Narcissism and Shame02:34 Understanding the Scapegoat Role in Dysfunctional Families05:34 The Inner Narcissist: A Toxic Voice08:32 Shame: The Root of Addiction and Self-Destruction11:31 The Ineffectiveness of Shame in Behavior Change14:30 Breaking the Cycle of Shame and Addiction18:32 The Uselessness of Shame19:58 Breaking the Shame Trance22:14 Anchoring in Truth24:15 The Cycle of Shame and Control27:22 Shame and Authenticity30:01 The Misconception of Healthy Shame32:12 Shame as a Control Mechanism34:55 Taking Back Power from Shame38:17 The Role of AI in Therapy and Shame Dynamics39:26 Authenticity and Identity Transformation40:25 Shame's Impact on Self-Discovery41:18 Shame in Family Systems42:53 Breaking the Cycle of Shame44:14 Posture, Shame, and Self-Expression45:46 The Scapegoat and the Cycle of Shame46:59 Shame and Spirituality47:45 Reclaiming Power from Shame48:19 Eviction Notice Game: Confronting Inner Criticism53:53 The Power of Alignment and Authenticity56:08 Retrieving Sanity: The Journey Beyond Shame#mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #addictionrecovery #addiction #selfcriticism #empowerment #emotionalhealth #recovery #shame #authenticity #mentalhealth #trauma #narcissism #familydynamics #societalimpact #healing #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

Exploring the Healing Factor of Dark Tourism and Healing From a Liver Transplant with Dr. Chad Scott

Get the reflection sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mQ__pGei-PoVR6JfYniS1do-yij937GH/view?usp=sharingSummary
In this conversation, Dr. Chad Scott shares his profound journey through personal illness and dark tourism, exploring how visiting historically significant sites of suffering has shaped his understanding of healing and resilience. He discusses the importance of confronting darkness, the lessons learned from historical trauma, and the impact of politics on mental health. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the need for empathy, reflection, and the courage to engage with difficult truths in order to foster personal growth and societal change. In this conversation, Dr. Chad Scott discusses the profound impact of dark tourism on personal growth and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in suffering, the role of hope in recovery, and the lessons learned from visiting historical sites of tragedy. The discussion also touches on the concept of hallowed ground, personal connections to history, and the necessity of reflection in retrieving sanity. Dr. Scott shares his experiences and insights on how confronting darkness can lead to greater emotional intelligence and resilience.
Check out his website here: https://www.drchadscott.com/
Takeaways
Dr. Chad Scott's journey through illness and dark tourism reveals profound insights about healing.Dark tourism can illuminate personal suffering and foster empathy.Experiencing historical tragedies can shift one's perspective on life and death.Memento mori serves as a reminder to live with intention and awareness of mortality.Trauma can be passed down through generations, affecting future descendants.The importance of remembering history to prevent repeating past mistakes.Politics significantly impacts mental health in today's society.Engaging with dark history can inspire action and advocacy for change.Personal experiences of suffering can lead to greater compassion for others.Finding meaning in suffering can transform one's outlook on life. Viktor Frankl's logotherapy highlights the importance of meaning in suffering.Hope, even in small amounts, can help individuals choose life.Riding out emotions is a crucial part of mental health recovery.Even in terminal illness, dignity and hope can provide meaning.Dark tourism can lead to profound personal reflections and insights.Emotional intelligence is often more important than traditional intelligence.Visiting historical sites can create a deep emotional connection to the past.Reflection is essential for understanding and processing experiences.Expanding comfort zones can lead to personal growth and resilience.Confronting trauma is necessary for emotional healing and growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Darkness and Healing02:17 Chad's Journey Through Illness and Recovery05:13 The Impact of Dark Tourism on Perspective08:01 Reflections from Historical Sites10:49 Memento Mori: Remembering Life and Death13:48 The Role of Trauma and Healing16:25 Comparative Reflections on Historical Tragedies19:18 Intergenerational Trauma and Its Legacy20:29 Reflections on History and Politics22:47 The Importance of Remembering Our Past25:08 The Role of Hope in Dark Times27:59 Finding Meaning Through Adversity33:51 Emotional Intelligence and Personal Growth36:45 Lessons from History and Personal Struggles40:53 Divine Intervention and Life-Saving Moments42:45 Hallowed Ground: The Energy of Sacred Spaces44:38 Personal Connections to Historical Figures46:53 Dark Tourism: Reflecting on Suffering and History47:51 The Game of Dark or Delightful54:15 Expanding Comfort Zones for Mental Health56:44 Reflection as a Path to Sanity
#mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #darktourism #addictionrecovery #alocholicrecovery #personalgrowth #healing #historicaltrauma #perspectiveshift #mementomori #resilience #livertransplant #reflection #death 
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

The Deceptive Truth Behind Troubled Youth Programs with Dr. Corey Jentry

Get the reflection sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Up8q-nBWQTIKZgivMiW9_KcD_HgJ0VMF/view?usp=sharingCheck his website here: https://www.jentryconsultingservices.com/
Summary
In this episode, Keegan Read and Dr. Corey Jentry discuss the complexities of the troubled teen industry, the impact of environmental factors on adolescent development, and the challenges faced in treatment programs. Dr. Jentry shares his personal journey through addiction recovery, highlighting the disconnect between treatment expectations and reality, the importance of compliance in treatment, and the struggles of transitioning back to life after treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for better advocacy and understanding of mental health and recovery, as well as the significance of education and self-discovery in personal growth. In this conversation, Dr. Corey Jentry discusses the complexities of the treatment industry, particularly focusing on the troubled teen industry and the efficacy of various treatment methods. He shares his personal experiences and insights into the mythology surrounding recovery, the disillusionment he faced in the treatment world, and the importance of understanding the science behind treatment efficacy. The conversation also touches on the societal expectations placed on men regarding mental health and the ethical concerns surrounding the business of treatment.
Takeaways
The troubled teen industry often profits from trauma.Teenage years are a critical developmental phase, not a mental health diagnosis.External factors like family environment significantly impact teen behavior.Treatment programs can sometimes exacerbate existing issues rather than resolve them.Compliance in treatment is often mistaken for progress.The disconnect between treatment expectations and reality can lead to further issues.Life after treatment can be challenging without proper support and skills.Cultural perspectives on recovery can vary greatly between regions.Education and self-discovery are crucial for personal growth post-treatment.Advocacy for better treatment practices is essential. The treatment industry often promotes a mythology of the 'good life' that is misleading.Disillusionment can arise when one sees the business side of recovery.Many treatment programs lack scientific grounding and evidence-based practices.The troubled teen industry is fraught with ethical concerns and questionable practices.Adolescents often face complex mental health challenges that require nuanced understanding.Identity formation is crucial in therapy, especially for teenagers.Men's mental health struggles are often overlooked in discussions about treatment.Families should approach treatment options with the same scrutiny as they would for education.The financial dynamics of the treatment industry can lead to exploitation.It's essential to question the legitimacy of treatment programs and their claims.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Troubled Youth and Recovery02:13 Core Experiences of Growing Up in a Troubled Environment05:07 The Allure of Treatment Programs07:40 The Reality of Treatment Programs10:34 The Struggles of Compliance and Control13:29 The Impact of Group Dynamics in Treatment16:08 The Transition Out of Treatment Programs19:08 Navigating Life After Treatment21:41 The Struggles of Early Recovery23:44 Finding Purpose in Education26:20 The Journey into Academia27:33 Transitioning to the Professional World31:23 Disillusionment with the Recovery Industry36:03 Understanding the Troubled Teen Industry38:35 The Reality of Behavioral Health Treatment41:11 Navigating Teenage Mental Health44:54 The Male Perspective on Mental Health47:00 Educating Families on Treatment Options52:21 The Economics of Behavioral Health Care53:42 Understanding Healthcare Fraud in Treatment Centers56:15 The Deregulated Nature of the U.S. Healthcare System57:31 The Importance of Community in Healing59:08 Challenges in Mental Health Funding01:01:49 The Role of Identity in Recovery01:04:14 Navigating Transitions and Change01:05:38 The Journey of Self-Discovery01:07:58 Integrating Mental Health Practices01:12:30 Retrieving Sanity: Personal Reflections and Practices#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #troubledteenindustry #addictionrecovery #addictiontreatment #healingjourney #traumarecovery #traumahealing #roughchildhood #resilience
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

The Kratom Addiction Trap, How Matt Got Out, And How He Helps Others with Matt Von Boecklin

Be sure to check out https://tryquitkit.com/ and use code: RETRIEVE20 for your discount! Get the Reflection Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KI0kE7j9jobI8C8mvuHo5KTRUeKOqKYN/view?usp=sharing
 
Summary
In this episode, Keegan and Matt von Boecklin discuss the journey of recovery from addiction, focusing on the Quit Kit and its impact on individuals seeking to overcome their struggles. They explore the importance of community, the role of the subconscious in addiction, and the necessity of reframing one's perspective towards sobriety. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-confidence, love, and finding joy in life after addiction, while also addressing misconceptions about substance use and the mental health challenges that accompany recovery.
Takeaways
The Quit Kit has helped over 2,000 people in their recovery journey.Many individuals struggle with addiction in silence, seeking help without wanting to go to rehab.Addiction often leads to a private battle that feels isolating.Curiosity about sobriety can help shift the subconscious mind.Building a new life post-addiction involves engaging in fulfilling activities.Community and connection are vital for recovery.Misconceptions about addiction can hinder the recovery process.Finding joy and purpose in sobriety is essential for long-term success.Self-confidence and love are antidotes to addiction.Engaging with content that challenges addiction can help reframe one's perspective.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Addiction Recovery02:23 The Journey of QuitKit and Personal Growth05:06 Understanding Addiction and the Role of Subconscious07:43 Reframing Addiction: Curiosity and Recovery10:29 The Power of Content in Changing Perspectives13:22 Finding Excitement in Recovery and Healing16:56 Breaking Free from Addiction20:31 Finding Purpose in Sobriety23:43 The Role of Curiosity in Recovery27:35 Navigating Existential Questions30:36 The Power of Connection and Love33:46 Misconceptions About Addiction35:43 The Illusion of Substance Benefits37:47 Breaking Free from Nicotine Addiction40:37 The Mental Game of Quitting43:30 Suicidal Ideation and Addiction46:30 Finding Community in Recovery49:50 Filling Your Cup: Self-Care and Content Creation55:07 Retrieving Sanity: Personal Reflections on Recovery#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #kratom #kratomaddiction #thequitkit #quitkit #Recovery #substanceabuseawareness #opiodrecovery #curiousaboutrecovery #personalgrowth #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

How Childhood Wounds Are Running Your LIfe with Julian Bermudez

Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with therapist Julian Bermudez about the complexities of healing, self-discovery, and the integration of emotional experiences. They explore the importance of recognizing and addressing childhood wounds, the patterns of pain that often lead to addiction, and the necessity of being present with one's emotions. Julian emphasizes the significance of nurturing the inner child, practicing self-compassion, and breaking generational patterns of trauma. The discussion highlights the power of choice in healing and the importance of seeking support while navigating the journey of recovery.
Check out his website here: http://www.psychedelic-integration.net/Get the Reflection Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HaMzvgObVhkV3AGpK10CGBQF4Hz_Uov1/view?usp=sharing
Takeaways
Healing requires recognizing and addressing childhood wounds.Integration involves applying lessons learned to daily life.Patterns of pain can lead to addiction and suffering.Being present with emotions is crucial for healing.Self-compassion is essential in the recovery process.Nurturing the inner child helps in emotional healing.Breaking generational trauma patterns is possible.Asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.Practicing gentleness and humor aids in self-acceptance.Self-care is vital for personal growth and healing.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Healing and Awareness05:20 Understanding Default Patterns08:17 The Relationship with Work and Play11:06 Navigating Pain and Addiction14:13 The Nature of Recovery17:11 Emotional Defense Mechanisms19:41 Finding Humor in Pain21:01 The Need for Connection22:16 Understanding Emotional Pain24:25 Patterns of Trauma and Connection26:23 Recognizing Internalized Pain29:00 Being There for Yourself31:30 Attunement and Emotional Needs34:41 Navigating Self-Care and Productivity38:12 The Search for Role Models39:00 Navigating Pain and Self-Connection40:23 Prioritizing Self-Care41:23 The Dilemma of Self-Sacrifice42:40 Recognizing Adaptations and Patterns43:18 The Practice of Self-Priority43:48 Creating New Pathways45:08 Finding Support and Resources46:13 Understanding Inherited Patterns48:08 Choosing New Responses49:03 The Lifelong Journey of Change50:50 Empowerment Through Work52:26 The Importance of Self-Care53:54 Changing the World Through Self-Work54:40 Looking Ahead to Future Conversations#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #recovery #addictionrecovery #emotionalhealing #childhoodwounds #innerchild #selfcompassion #generationaltrauma #emotionalexpression #crying #support #healingjourney #emotionalgrowth
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