Retrieving Sanity

Has Life got you beat down? Feeling overwhelmed and need to take the edge off? Maybe you want some tips and tricks to improve your mental health? Look no further and join Keegan as we go along the journey to retrieve our sanity. Speaking with everyday people, to experts in the mental health field, we explore the depths of mental health while getting inspiring stories to learn how to better oneself in multiple ways! The podcast has grown through the years, so please be mindful when listening to older episodes. Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
Episodes
Episodes



Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Navigating the Maze of Anxiety with Barbara
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Anxiety and Panic06:27 Understanding Anxiety and Its Triggers12:22 Changing Your Relationship with Anxiety15:30 Grounding Techniques and Self-Awareness19:34 Understanding Anxiety and Calm Skills21:55 The Importance of Calm in the Face of Panic22:54 Communicating with Anxiety: Letter Writing Techniques23:22 Building a Foundation of Calm25:31 Anxiety as an Overreactive Protector29:11 Societal Pressures and Anxiety31:00 The Healing Power of Facing Fears36:00 Transforming Anticipatory Anxiety into Curiosity37:40 Understanding Anxious Thoughts40:04 Managing Input and Boundaries42:24 Reclaiming Life and Healing43:22 The Ripple Effect of Recovery46:22 Distinguishing Between Panic and Heart Attack49:16 Changing Anxious Self-Talk52:24 Practicing Calmness53:02 Resources for RecoverySummaryIn this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Barbara Spaulding, an LCSW and anxiety coach, about her personal journey with panic attacks and anxiety. Barbara shares her experiences of living with anxiety for over 15 years, the challenges she faced, and the strategies she developed to overcome it. The conversation delves into the importance of practical skills in managing anxiety, changing one's relationship with anxiety, and the significance of self-awareness and grounding techniques in the recovery process. In this conversation, Barbara Spaulding, an anxiety coach, discusses various techniques for managing anxiety, emphasizing the importance of recognizing anxious reactions and developing calm skills. She introduces the concept of communicating with anxiety through letter writing, the significance of building a foundation of calm, and the impact of societal pressures on anxiety levels. The discussion also touches on the healing power of facing fears and transforming anticipatory anxiety into curiosity. In this conversation, Barbara Spaulding, an anxiety coach, discusses the nature of anxious thoughts, the importance of managing input and setting boundaries, and the journey of reclaiming one's life from anxiety. She emphasizes the need for self-care, the ripple effect of recovery, and practical strategies for distinguishing between panic attacks and heart issues. The discussion also covers the significance of changing self-talk and practicing calmness, along with resources available for those struggling with anxiety.#retrievingsanity #recovery #anxiety #self-talk #boundaries #onedayatatime #youcandoit
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 Feb 27, 2025
Food Warriors for Mental Health with Shannon Dobbs (Radio Edit)
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Food Justice and Mental Health05:56 Building a Grocery Store: Challenges and Setbacks11:57 Innovative Food Rescue Strategies17:58 Navigating the Nonprofit Landscape24:32 The Search for a Simpler Life30:52 Challenging Food Regulations37:02 Impending Crises and Societal Ignorance42:56 The Role of Money in Food Politics48:08 The Impact of Environment on Mental Health54:14 Empowering Communities to Combat Food Insecurity01:00:15 The Journey Towards Self-Sufficiency and Community BuildingSummaryIn this episode, Keegan Read interviews Shannon J Dobbs, a food justice warrior and veteran, who shares his journey from running nightclubs to advocating for food justice and mental health. Shannon discusses the challenges he faced in establishing a grocery store in a food desert, the impact of the pandemic on his personal growth, and innovative strategies for food rescue. He highlights the connection between food waste and climate change and navigates the complexities of the nonprofit sector while seeking collaboration with the farming community. In this conversation, Shannon J Dobbs discusses the complexities of modern food systems, the mental health implications of food insecurity, and the urgent need for new farmers. He shares personal experiences and insights into the bureaucratic challenges faced by those trying to innovate within the food industry. The discussion highlights the hidden truths about food distribution, the narrative surrounding food waste, and the societal ignorance towards impending crises related to food and agriculture. In this conversation, Shannon J Dobbs and Keegan Read explore the intricate relationship between mental health, addiction, and community environment. They discuss the Rat Park experiment, which highlights how environment influences addiction, and emphasize the importance of community in improving mental health. The dialogue also covers practical solutions for food insecurity and waste management, advocating for grassroots initiatives that empower communities to take charge of their health and environment. The conversation concludes with reflections on finding community and support in the journey of self-discovery and mental well-being.#mentalhealth #foodjustice #recovery #crazy #foodwarrior #foodforall #worldhunger #hungergames
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 Feb 23, 2025
Empowerment Through Adversity with Zulma Williams (Audio)
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zulma Williams03:42 Overcoming Cancer: A New Beginning06:11 Pursuing Dreams at Any Age10:24 Shifting Perspectives: From Victim to Survivor12:53 Finding Hope in Hopelessness15:45 The Power of Choice in Recovery18:50 Continuous Growth and Learning20:31 Finding Lessons in Difficult Experiences22:06 Understanding Suicidal Ideation and Pain24:31 The Importance of Self-Worth and Resilience26:53 Setting Goals and Overcoming Challenges28:20 Living in the Present Moment30:55 Grounding Techniques for Anxiety Management32:35 Mindfulness and Parenting Strategies38:53 Challenging Negative Thoughts40:35 The Power of External Perspectives42:51 Reframing Self-Perception45:42 The Birth of Dragonfly Therapy51:13 The Symbolism of Dragonflies53:42 Final Thoughts and EncouragementSummaryIn this episode, Keegan Read interviews Zulma Williams, a licensed trauma therapist who shares her inspiring journey from working in accounting to becoming a therapist after overcoming breast cancer. Zulma discusses the importance of pursuing dreams at any age, shifting perspectives from victimhood to empowerment, and the power of choice in recovery. She emphasizes the need for community support in finding lessons in difficult experiences and encourages listeners to embrace their value and potential. In this conversation, Zulma and Keegan delve into the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on suicidal ideation, self-worth, and resilience. They discuss the importance of recognizing pain without equating it to a desire for death, emphasizing the need for rest and recovery. The dialogue highlights the significance of setting achievable goals, living in the present moment, and employing grounding techniques to manage anxiety. Zulma shares practical mindfulness strategies, especially for parents, to help children navigate their emotions and reactions. Overall, the conversation is a powerful reminder of the strength within individuals to overcome challenges and the importance of self-compassion. In this conversation, Zulma Williams discusses the importance of challenging negative self-perceptions and reframing thoughts to foster self-love and acceptance. She emphasizes the power of external perspectives in combating anxiety and depression, and shares her journey in founding Dragonfly Therapy, which focuses on helping clients navigate their mental health challenges. The symbolism of dragonflies as agents of change is highlighted, along with the importance of finding the right therapist for personal growth.#mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #therapy #recovery #cancer #youcandoit #nottooold #college
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 Feb 20, 2025
Navigating Life’s Systems for Success (Audio)
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Change03:00 Simplifying Life: The Roadmap to Enjoyment05:57 Navigating Systems: Choices and Strategies08:58 Academic Journey: Overcoming Challenges11:58 Transitioning to Consulting: New Beginnings14:57 Building Relationships and Recognizing Opportunities18:02 Understanding Ego and Self-Worth20:58 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Perception24:00 Authenticity in Communication and Life26:58 Taking Risks: Embracing Opportunities29:45 Pushing Beyond Comfort Zones30:58 Understanding Addiction as a Choice32:52 The Paradox of Addiction and Choice34:38 The Comfort of Addiction36:30 The Role of Technology in Modern Addiction39:00 Using Social Media Effectively40:32 Controlling Life's Complications44:02 Experiences vs. Materialism48:44 The Power of Personal Stories53:48 Making Better Decisions for a Better LifeSummaryIn this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with psychologist and author Angelo Valenti, exploring the complexities of mental health, the importance of simplifying life, and the impact of social media on self-perception. Valenti shares insights from his extensive career, emphasizing the significance of recognizing opportunities, understanding ego, and fostering authentic relationships. The conversation highlights strategies for navigating life's challenges and encourages listeners to embrace their unique journeys. In this engaging conversation, Keegan Read and Angelo Valenti explore the themes of self-worth, addiction, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of stepping outside comfort zones, the choices that lead to addiction, and the power of personal stories in shaping our lives. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and social media on our connections and decision-making, emphasizing the value of experiences over material possessions. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to take control of their lives through better decision-making and to embrace the journey of self-discovery.#mentalhealth #self-improvement #recovery #easylife #challenges #socialmedia #interview #makeitworkforyou
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 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Meditation and Martial Arts02:53 The Journey of a Martial Arts Teacher06:01 Understanding Different Paths of Meditation09:00 Starting Your Meditation Journey12:00 The Importance of Consistency in Practice15:06 The Concept of Yielding in Meditation17:58 Applying Yielding in Daily Life21:00 The Yielding Warrior Philosophy24:00 Yielding vs. Surrender27:02 Overcoming Obstacles to Meditation30:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts32:06 Integrating Meditation into a Busy Lifestyle35:17 Personal Transformation Through Meditation37:43 Facing Inner Demons and Finding Authenticity39:53 The Process of Returning to Center43:40 The Five Regulations of Meditation49:19 The Journey Towards Enlightenment54:59 Gratitude and Support in Meditation PracticeSummaryIn this conversation, Keegan Read and Jeff Patterson explore the intersection of meditation and martial arts, discussing the various paths of meditation, the importance of consistency, and the philosophy of yielding. Jeff shares his journey as a martial arts teacher and the impact of meditation on personal growth and mental health. The discussion emphasizes the need for guidance in meditation practice and the misconceptions surrounding yielding and surrender. In this conversation, Jeff Patterson discusses the transformative power of meditation, emphasizing its role in personal growth, mental health, and daily life. He shares insights on integrating meditation into a busy lifestyle, the importance of facing inner demons, and the process of returning to center. Jeff introduces the five regulations of meditation, which include regulating the body, breath, mind, energy, and spirit, and highlights the journey towards enlightenment. The conversation concludes with a focus on gratitude and the support needed in meditation practice.#mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #meditation #warrior #yielding #mindfullness #meditationjourney #community
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 Feb 13, 2025
Curveballs: Overcoming Life’s Challenges with Gail Taylor (Audio)
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Music02:57 Gail's Journey from Finance to Music06:02 Facing Trauma and Addiction08:51 The Path to Recovery and Self-Discovery12:00 Parenting and Addiction: A Cycle14:56 Understanding Alcoholism and Recovery17:56 Mental Health Stigma and Self-Care21:32 Empathy for Families Affected by Addiction24:50 The Healing Power of Music27:27 Understanding Control and Internal Dialogue31:04 Reprogramming the Subconscious Mind34:15 The Importance of Self-Care and Nutrition39:56 Rediscovering Music and Its Healing Power43:02 Designing Your Life: Overcoming Ageism and Embracing Change44:57 The Transformative Nature of Personal Growth Tools48:00 The Healing Power of Music: A Life-Changing Experience51:05 Empowerment Through Choices: Music and Life Lessons54:00 The Importance of Community and Support in RecoverySummaryIn this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Gail Taylor, a storyteller and author, about her journey from a successful career in finance to becoming a musician and author. Gail shares her experiences with trauma, addiction, and recovery, emphasizing the importance of self-care and personal growth. She discusses her book 'Curveballs,' which combines personal stories with tools for overcoming life's challenges, and highlights the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. In this conversation, Gail Taylor shares her journey through the challenges of addiction, both personally and as a family member. She emphasizes the importance of empathy for families affected by addiction, the healing power of music, and the necessity of self-care and internal dialogue in personal growth. Gail discusses techniques for reprogramming the subconscious mind and the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support mental well-being. In this conversation, Gail Taylor shares her journey of rediscovering music after a period of absence due to addiction. She discusses the healing power of music, the importance of personal growth tools, and the need to design one's life rather than letting circumstances dictate it. Gail emphasizes that age should not be a barrier to pursuing dreams and that everyone can benefit from personal growth, regardless of their past. The conversation highlights the transformative nature of music and the choices we make in life, encouraging listeners to embrace change and seek support in their journeys.#addiction #recovery #music #retrievingsanity #curveballs #life #unexpected #self-care
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



Saturday Feb 08, 2025
From Addiction to Inspiration: Nathan’s Journey Audio
Saturday Feb 08, 2025
Saturday Feb 08, 2025
SummaryIn this episode of 'Retrieving Sanity', host Keegan Read engages in a heartfelt conversation with motivational speaker Nathan, who shares his inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and hardships. They discuss the importance of family support, the role of hope in recovery, and the significance of building positive habits. Nathan emphasizes the need for self-acceptance and the power of will in creating a vision for the future. The conversation also touches on the nature of goodness in people, the impact of money, and the importance of accountability in the recovery process. Ultimately, Nathan's story serves as a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar challenges.#addiction #recovery #retrievingsanity #personalgrowth #podcast #interview #mentalhealth #gym #youcandoit
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 Feb 06, 2025
From Engineer to Recovery Engineer with Crystal Robinson
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Summary
In this conversation, Crystal Robinson shares her transformative journey from a successful engineering career to becoming a recovery engineer and holistic health coach. She discusses her struggles with health challenges, including anaphylactic reactions, lupus, and a brain tumor, and how these experiences led her to discover the importance of emotional and mental well-being. Crystal emphasizes the power of meditation, self-discovery, and holistic healing in overcoming adversity and finding authenticity in life. Her story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, highlighting the significance of resilience and personal growth. In this conversation, Crystal Robinson and Keegan Read explore the journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of living in the present, processing past experiences, and defining one's identity beyond labels. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of core beliefs, breaking free from victim mentality, and the role of compassion in healing relationships. They also touch on the desire for change, the quest for authenticity, and the realization of one's wholeness. Ultimately, the conversation encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and live authentically.
#recovery #mentalhealth #selfempowerment #personalgrowth #holistichealing #identity #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