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



Sunday Nov 23, 2025
Navigating Life and Healing TBIs with Kelly Tuttle
Sunday Nov 23, 2025
Sunday Nov 23, 2025
Download The Worksheet HereSummary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Kelly Tuttle, a neurology nurse practitioner, about the complexities of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its impact on mental health. They discuss the various causes of TBI, the importance of understanding overstimulation, and the identity changes that can occur post-injury. Kelly emphasizes the role of journaling in recovery, the significance of sleep, and the necessity of support systems. The conversation also touches on the challenges of substance use and the management of headaches associated with TBI. Throughout the discussion, Kelly shares valuable insights on mindfulness, neuroplasticity, and the importance of seeking help from specialists.
Check out her website here: https://kellytuttle.org/
Takeaways
TBI can result from various incidents, not just severe trauma.Overstimulation can lead to anxiety and panic attacks post-TBI.Identity changes are common after a TBI, affecting personal and social life.Journaling can help individuals process their experiences and emotions post-TBI.Mindfulness practices can aid in neuroplasticity and recovery.Sleep is crucial for brain health and recovery from TBI.Support systems are essential for mental health during recovery.Substance use can complicate recovery and lead to additional health issues.Headaches are a common symptom of TBI and can vary in severity.Seeking help from specialists is important for managing invisible injuries.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to TBI and Identity Rebuilding02:21 Understanding Brain Injuries05:03 Overstimulation and Mental Health07:52 Loss of Identity After TBI10:41 Journaling as a Tool for Recovery13:34 The Role of Mindfulness and Gratitude16:06 Neuroplasticity and Positive Thinking19:01 Rest and Recovery in TBI22:05 Facing Demons During Recovery25:28 Navigating Support Systems During Tough Times27:32 Identifying Invisible Injuries and Seeking Help30:25 The Journey of Writing and Recording a Book33:13 Understanding Auditory Hallucinations and Seizures35:04 The Dangers of Substance Withdrawal37:00 Rebound Headaches and Medication Dependency42:25 The Importance of Sleep for Brain Health50:14 Finding Your North Star in Recovery
#retrievingsanity #mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcast #journaling #tbi #braininjury #healing #recovery #rehabilitation
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 Nov 20, 2025
Choosing To Live and Laugh Instead of Ending It with Gretchen (G-Rex) Schoser
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
Sanity Check Worksheet DownloadSummary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read welcomes Gretchen Schoser, an award-winning podcast co-host, to discuss her personal journey through mental health struggles, the importance of seeking help, and the healing power of laughter. Gretchen shares her experience with the 988 crisis hotline, the birth of her podcast, and her transition into entrepreneurship. The conversation emphasizes the significance of kindness, self-care, and normalizing mental health discussions, encouraging listeners to take off their masks and embrace their true selves. In this conversation, Gretchen Schoser and Keegan Read explore the themes of recovery, mental health, and the importance of joy and connection. They discuss personal experiences with triggers, boundaries, and the significance of sharing one's story. The dialogue emphasizes the power of listening, vulnerability, and the role of humor in healing. They also touch on the use of technology in mental health support and the journey of reinvention, highlighting that it's never too late to start over and choose joy over material pursuits.
Check out her podcast here: https://goesoninourheads.net/aboutand Her website here: https://schosersolutions.com/
Takeaways
Gretchen's mental health breakdown led to her podcasting journey.The 988 hotline provided crucial support during her crisis.Laughter can be a powerful tool for healing.It's important to take off the mask and be authentic.Setting boundaries is essential for self-care.Kindness costs nothing and can make a big difference.Normalizing mental health conversations helps reduce stigma.Self-discovery is a journey that requires honesty and effort.Entrepreneurship can be a path to fulfillment after personal struggles.Sharing stories can unlock healing for others. Finding joy in recovery is essential for mental health.Setting boundaries is crucial for protecting mental well-being.Recognizing triggers can help in managing mental health.Connection and support from others can be life-saving.Listening without the need to fix can be powerful.Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.It's never too late to reinvent yourself.Humor can be a vital part of the healing process.Choosing joy over money leads to a more fulfilling life.Sharing your story can help others feel less alone.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Podcasting Journey02:33 Gretchen's Personal Struggles and the Importance of 98805:25 The Healing Power of Laughter and Podcasting08:25 The Impact of Sharing Stories and Normalizing Mental Health11:08 Starting a New Chapter: Entrepreneurship and Mental Wellness13:54 Setting Boundaries and the Role of Therapy17:48 Prioritizing Self-Care Over People-Pleasing19:00 The Journey of Healing and Hope19:50 The Power of Kindness in a Troubled World20:51 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health22:34 The Role of Podcasting in Mental Health Awareness23:39 Honesty as the First Step to Recovery24:51 Finding Gratitude in Adversity26:24 Grounding Yourself in Nature28:17 Recognizing Triggers and Setting Boundaries29:24 The Importance of Sharing Your Story30:47 The Freedom of Owning Your Own Path32:29 The Impact of Podcasting on Mental Health Conversations35:28 The Importance of Listening and Being Present36:57 Finding Support in Recovery38:30 Personal Strategies for Mental Health40:15 The Importance of Joy and Gratitude43:37 Reinventing Yourself in Recovery46:23 The Journey of Recovery48:46 Tech in Mental Health Support54:48 Final Thoughts on Recovery and Self-Care#sh!tthatgoesoninourheads #mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #suicide #attempt #988 #lifeafter #morethan #resilience #resourceful #brave #recovery #traumas
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 Nov 16, 2025
Sunday Nov 16, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a profound conversation with Ken Kunken, a remarkable individual whose journey from a devastating football injury to becoming a quadriplegic lawyer exemplifies resilience and determination. They explore themes of family dynamics, the importance of inclusion and diversity, overcoming challenges, and the role of faith in navigating life's adversities. Ken shares insights on raising triplet sons with strong values of empathy and kindness, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and validating others' experiences. The discussion culminates in reflections on personal growth, the impact of choices, and the power of love and support in building a meaningful legacy.
Checkout his website here: https://kenkunken.com/
Takeaways
Resilience is a daily choice we make.Family support can strengthen bonds during adversity.Inclusion and diversity are essential for societal growth.Overcoming challenges often requires creative solutions.Faith can provide comfort and perspective in difficult times.Helping others fosters connections and community.Raising children with empathy leads to compassionate adults.Recognizing pain validates individual experiences.Adaptation is key to navigating life's challenges.Life's journey can lead to unexpected and beautiful outcomes.
#retrievingsanity #handicap #mentalhealth #handicapable #DEI #family #familyvalues #strength #trailblazer #resilience #challenge
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 Nov 13, 2025
How to Adjust Your Burnout Graph to Optimize Your Life with Rob Tracz
Thursday Nov 13, 2025
Thursday Nov 13, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with performance coach Rob Tracz about his journey from experiencing burnout to helping others navigate their own struggles. Rob shares his personal story of overcoming challenges, the impact of his father's illness, and the importance of recognizing the signs of burnout. He emphasizes the need for self-reflection, community support, and aligning one's work with personal passions to avoid burnout and achieve fulfillment. In this conversation, Rob Tracz and Keegan Read delve into the complexities of burnout, self-reflection, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of recognizing signs of burnout, the balance between physical and cognitive challenges, and the concept of the 'comfort corner.' Rob introduces the 'Diamond Matrix' as a tool for assessing one's state of well-being and emphasizes the need for collaboration and understanding one's uniqueness to create opportunities. The discussion also touches on the evolution of projects and the significance of connection in overcoming challenges.
Check out his website here: https://robtracz.com/
Takeaways
Burnout can sneak up on you if you're not aware.Personal experiences shape our professional paths.Finding a supportive community is crucial for recovery.Distractions can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms.Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step to recovery.Transitioning careers can be a challenging but rewarding process.It's important to align your work with your passions.Self-reflection is key to personal growth.Helping others can also aid in your own healing.Creating a balanced life is essential for mental health. Recognizing burnout involves self-reflection and awareness.The Diamond Matrix helps balance physical and cognitive challenges.The comfort corner represents a lack of challenge in life.Creating luck involves leveraging uniqueness and collaboration.Understanding the audience is crucial for effective communication.Burnout can stem from a lack of challenge and clarity.Connection with others is key to overcoming isolation.Small steps can lead to significant personal growth.Evolving projects often require adapting to new circumstances.Setting up systems can help prevent burnout.
Chapters
00:00 Rob's Journey: From Childhood to Coaching00:00 The Struggles of Overworking and Burnout03:15 Coping with Loss and the Impact of Grief07:31 The Turning Point: Recognizing the Need for Change12:07 Evolving from Strength Coach to Performance Coach15:46 Navigating Burnout and Chaos17:10 Finding Direction and Motivation19:02 Embracing New Challenges20:31 Juggling Multiple Projects23:38 Recognizing Burnout Signs26:55 The Comfort Corner Concept32:32 Navigating the Continuum of Skills and Challenges34:23 Understanding Physical and Cognitive Exhaustion36:07 The Journey of Writing and Overcoming Writer's Block38:28 Identifying and Addressing Burnout40:46 Creating Your Own Luck and Opportunities44:43 The Importance of Collaboration and Continuous Growth49:51 The Power of Connection in Retrieving Sanity51:43 Introduction to Burnout and Its Impact52:37 Understanding the Sneaky Nature of Burnout53:58 Finding Balance and Utilizing Burnout Positively#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #burnout #cookedzone #coacing #resilience #personaldevlopment #addictionrecovery #sidehustle #selfreflection #comfortcorner #awareness
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 Nov 09, 2025
Exploring The Roots of ADHD For Healing with Jeremy Van Wert
Sunday Nov 09, 2025
Sunday Nov 09, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, Keegan Read and Jeremy Van Wert explore the complexities of ADHD, the importance of self-love, and the healing potential of psychedelics. They discuss the challenges of navigating corporate life with ADHD, the significance of building boundaries and friendships, and the impact of childhood trauma on emotional processing. Jeremy shares insights on mindfulness, exercise, and the role of community in managing ADHD, while also emphasizing the need for self-reflection and forgiveness. The conversation highlights the journey of understanding oneself and the importance of embracing life in the present moment.
Check out his website here: https://mindfulmutiny.com/
Takeaways
Seize life now; don't wait for the right moment.ADHD individuals often struggle with oversharing due to trust.Building boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships.Exercise and mindfulness are essential for managing ADHD.Psychedelics can facilitate deep emotional healing.Childhood trauma can significantly impact adult emotional processing.Forgiveness is a key step in healing from past trauma.Community and connection are vital for emotional well-being.Self-reflection helps in understanding personal triggers and responses.Creating structure and discipline can aid in managing ADHD.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey02:56 Life on the Road: Embracing Adventure05:56 Navigating Corporate Life with ADHD11:37 Setting Boundaries and Building Relationships17:19 Managing ADHD: Strategies for Success19:21 The Power of Sound Frequencies21:26 Understanding Neurodivergence and Trauma24:28 The Impact of Childhood Experiences27:14 Breaking Free from Masking30:13 Building Authentic Relationships33:06 Distinguishing Between ADHD and Autism34:53 Strategies for Managing ADHD Disorganization36:10 Strategies for Focus and Memory38:56 Managing ADHD and Communication39:54 Creating Structure and Outsourcing Tasks43:00 Understanding Discipline and Order in ADHD46:07 Healing from Childhood Trauma53:03 The Role of Psychedelics in Healing#retrievingsanity #mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcast #adhd #audhd #neurodivergence #neurodivergent #mindfulness #mindfulmutiny #boundaries #community #connection
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 Nov 06, 2025
Recovery and Healing Using Source Energy with Justin Shaw
Thursday Nov 06, 2025
Thursday Nov 06, 2025
Summary
In this conversation, Keegan Read and Justin Shaw explore the themes of healing, addiction recovery, and the concept of source energy. Justin shares his transformative experience of a 'bliss attack' that led him to create a map for healing, emphasizing the importance of spiritual well-being. They discuss the limitations of traditional medical approaches to mental health and the need for a holistic understanding of healing that includes the mind, body, and spirit. Justin introduces his 13 rungs of recovery, contrasting it with the rigid structure of 12-step programs, and highlights the significance of change and self-discovery in the healing journey. The conversation also touches on the role of meditation and the questioning of traditional beliefs surrounding death and spirituality. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Justin L Shaw explore the transition from traditional religious practices to a more fluid and inclusive approach to spirituality and recovery. They discuss the limitations of programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, emphasizing the need for a more holistic understanding of recovery that incorporates mental health, emotional healing, and personal growth. The dialogue delves into the importance of self-awareness, shadow work, and the necessity of stepping outside one's comfort zone to foster growth and healing. In this conversation, Justin L Shaw shares insights on personal growth, the importance of intention, and the distinction between instinct and intuition. He emphasizes the need for a positive mindset, the significance of following one's passion, and the role of perception in mental health. The discussion also covers the importance of understanding chakras and the value of mentorship in personal development. Shaw concludes with a reflection on the daily practices necessary for maintaining mental health and retrieving sanity.
Find His Book Here: https://www.amazon.com/Sourcery-101-Higher-Elevation-Consciousness/dp/B0DTV5ZXSM
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Healing and Source Energy02:56 The Bliss Attack Experience06:01 Understanding Spiritual Bankruptcy and Healing09:02 The 13 Rungs of Recovery11:57 The Role of Change in Recovery15:03 Meditation and the Journey to Self-Discovery18:06 Questioning Traditional Beliefs and Control22:01 The Shift from Religion to Spirituality23:20 Navigating Recovery and Spirituality25:48 Critique of Traditional Recovery Programs28:09 Understanding Power and Control in Recovery30:01 The Need for Inclusive Recovery Options32:32 Introducing the 13 Rungs of Sorcery33:25 Exploring Shadow Work and Self-Awareness35:50 The Importance of Meditation and Serenity37:15 Health as Wealth: Mind, Body, and Spirit38:12 Emotional Alchemy and Forgiveness39:39 Comfort and Discomfort in Personal Growth41:01 Embracing Uncomfortable Situations41:48 The Power of Intention42:45 Goats vs. Sheep: Mindset Matters44:11 Following Your Bliss45:33 Understanding Simulation Theory46:58 Perception and Mental Health47:53 Instinct vs. Intuition49:46 The Importance of Chakras50:43 The Role of Mentorship52:54 Retrieving Sanity: Daily Practices
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 Nov 02, 2025
Acting Away Imposter Syndrome with Dr. Albert Bramante
Sunday Nov 02, 2025
Sunday Nov 02, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with Albert Charles Bramante, a unique figure in the realms of psychology and acting. They explore Bramante's journey from a nonconventional childhood to becoming a psychology professor and talent agent. The conversation delves into the challenges actors face, including self-sabotage, the fear of success, and the impact of identity on mental health. Bramante emphasizes the importance of reframing negative beliefs and cultivating a growth mindset. The episode concludes with a game segment, 'Mindset GPS,' where Bramante offers practical advice for overcoming common mental barriers in the creative industry.
Check out his website here: http://www.albertbramante.com/
Takeaways
Albert Bramante is a psychology professor and talent agent.He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in acting and life.Actors often struggle with self-sabotage and the fear of success.The person in the mirror can be the biggest obstacle.Reframing negative beliefs is crucial for personal growth.Money is a neutral concept that can be used for good or bad.Actors should focus on their own journey rather than comparing themselves to others.Cultivating a growth mindset is essential for overcoming challenges.Bramante's work aims to help actors thrive in their careers.Retrieving sanity means finding peace of mind and living authentically.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Albert Charles Bramante05:45 The Role of a Talent Agent08:52 Challenges Faced by Actors10:11 Understanding Self-Limiting Beliefs12:04 Identifying Signs of Self-Sabotage12:41 Deep Dive into Personal Challenges15:49 Common Scripts Holding Actors Back18:06 Resistance to Change19:35 Identity and Self-Perception21:35 The Struggle of the Artist's Identity24:39 Fear of Success26:19 Exploring the Fear of Success28:10 The Impact of Change on Success29:21 Reframing Our Relationship with Money31:38 The Struggles of the Artist's Journey35:07 Helping Others Shine38:10 Overcoming the Victim Mentality40:50 Confronting Imposter Syndrome44:14 Mindset GPS: Navigating Challenges48:42 Retrieving Sanity: Finding Peace of Mind#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #addictionrecovery #acting #selfsabotaging #fearofsuccess #growthmindset #talentagents #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



Thursday Oct 30, 2025
What If You Could Use Light To Heal Your Brain with Dr. Theodore Henderson
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Summary
In this enlightening episode of Retrieving Sanity, Dr. Theodore Henderson discusses revolutionary approaches to brain health, focusing on the role of mitochondria and the potential of infrared light therapy. He challenges traditional views on depression, emphasizing that it is not merely a chemical imbalance but a degenerative disease that can be treated through innovative methods. The conversation explores the synergy between ketamine and infrared light, the importance of neuroplasticity, and the need for a paradigm shift in mental health treatment. Dr. Henderson shares his personal journey and insights on meditation as a crucial practice for maintaining mental well-being.
Check out his website here: https://neuro-luminance.com/
Takeaways
Every brain condition may share a common underlying issue.Improving mitochondrial health can enhance overall brain function.Infrared light therapy shows promise in treating various brain disorders.Depression is a degenerative disease, not just a chemical imbalance.Neuroplasticity is key to recovery from mental health issues.Ketamine and infrared light can work synergistically for better outcomes.Meditation can significantly aid in mental health recovery.The medical community is slow to adopt new treatments due to entrenched beliefs.Personal experiences can drive passion for innovative medical practices.Understanding the brain's complexity is essential for effective treatment.
Chapters
00:00 Revolutionizing Brain Science02:08 The Power of Mitochondria06:48 Infrared Light and Healing11:22 The Future of Photobiomodulation16:57 Applications Beyond the Brain17:53 The Microbiome and Parkinson's Treatment19:28 Long-lasting Effects of Multi-Watt Infrared Light20:45 Rethinking Depression: A Degenerative Disease22:37 Ketamine and Neuroplasticity: A New Approach25:08 The Myths of Ketamine Treatment27:36 Challenging Conventional Psychiatry29:51 Personal Journey: From Darkness to Advocacy34:30 The Journey of Healing and Transformation36:19 Understanding Mental Health Through Neuroimaging38:46 The Challenges of Paradigm Shifts in Psychiatry40:17 Innovations in Brain Treatment: ExoMind and Beyond42:09 Addressing Long COVID and Brain Health43:36 Neuroplasticity and Recovery from Brain Injuries45:55 The Resilience of the Human Brain47:43 Retrieving Sanity: Personal Insights and Practices
#RetrievingSanity #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthTreatment #infraredlighttherapy #depression #neuroplasticity #photobiomodulation #ketamine #recovery #neuroscience #future
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









