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 Oct 19, 2025
You ARE NOT Your Negative Thoughts with Betsy Holmberg
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Summary
In this episode, Keegan Read and Betsy Holmberg delve into the pervasive issue of negative self-talk, exploring its origins, effects, and the neuroscience behind it. Betsy shares her personal journey with negative self-talk, detailing her struggles and the insights she gained through her research and experiences as a therapist. They discuss the concept of the Default Mode Network (DMN) and its role in perpetuating negative thoughts, as well as the importance of separating oneself from these thoughts to foster healing and emotional intelligence. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of thoughts, emotions, and the body's nervous systems, highlighting the need for self-acceptance and understanding in the journey towards mental wellness. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Betsy Holmberg explore the concept of self-awareness through the HALT method, emphasizing the importance of recognizing emotional states such as hunger, anger, loneliness, and tiredness. They discuss the significance of connection in combating negative thoughts generated by the default mode network (DMN) and the role of trust in self-perception. The dialogue delves into the challenges of neurodivergence, the power of authenticity in relationships, and the necessity of embracing discomfort for personal growth. Ultimately, they highlight the journey of self-discovery and the importance of connecting with one's heart to retrieve sanity.
Visit her website here: https://betsyholmberg.com/Takeaways
Negative self-talk is a universal experience.Betsy's journey highlights the impact of personal struggles on mental health.The Default Mode Network (DMN) plays a crucial role in negative thinking.Understanding the DMN can help in managing negative thoughts.Emotional intelligence is key to recognizing and addressing negative self-talk.The heart and gut have their own nervous systems that influence our emotions.Separating oneself from negative thoughts is essential for healing.Suffering is optional; we can choose how to respond to pain.Awareness of the DMN can lead to better mental health outcomes.Healing involves connecting with our feelings and understanding our thoughts. HALT is a useful tool for self-assessment.Connection with others helps combat negative thoughts.Trust is essential for self-acceptance.The DMN can distort self-perception.Mindfulness practices can help shift focus from the DMN.Discomfort can indicate personal growth opportunities.Neurodivergence requires understanding and acceptance.Authenticity fosters trust in relationships.Finding your unique community is vital for well-being.Retrieving sanity involves connecting with your heart.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Negative Self-Talk02:34 Betsy's Journey with Negative Self-Talk05:39 Understanding the Default Mode Network08:40 The Impact of the Default Mode on Mental Health11:44 Rebalancing the Default Mode Network14:38 Escaping the Self: The Role of Distractions17:28 Understanding the Default Mode Network (DMN) and Self-Perception20:51 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Health24:18 Navigating Heartbreak and Emotional Pain26:10 The Role of Connection in Mental Health29:56 The Importance of External Validation32:41 Reframing the Subconscious and Healing34:56 Cultivating Positive Thoughts and Mindfulness37:05 The Journey of Self-Discovery39:55 Embracing Uniqueness and Authenticity42:57 Finding Comfort in Individuality45:46 Navigating Social Discomfort50:38 The Power of Connection and Community54:40 Retrieving Sanity Through Heartfelt Connection#RetrievingSanity #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #DefaultMode #DefaultThinking #NegativeThoughts #Reprogramming #LearningYourself #PositiveThinking #Intentional
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 16, 2025
Thursday Oct 16, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with guests Alan Lazaros and Kevin Palmieri to explore the themes of recovery, personal development, and the journey of turning passion into a profitable business. They discuss the evolution of their podcast, Next Level University, and the importance of setting boundaries in helping others while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. The conversation delves into the balance of passion, purpose, and profit, the courage to face success and failure, and the impact of criticism on personal growth. In this engaging conversation, Alan Lazaros, Kevin Palmieri, and Keegan Read delve into the complexities of personal growth, responsibility, and the balance between self-worth and success. They explore the challenges of maintaining relationships while pursuing ambitious goals, the importance of reflecting on past experiences to inform future decisions, and the necessity of vulnerability in personal and professional development. The discussion emphasizes the significance of setting goals, the invisible nature of daily progress, and the potential regrets of not reaching one's full potential. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a motivational guide for listeners seeking to navigate their own journeys of growth and fulfillment.Check out their website here: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/
Takeaways
Next Level University started as a passion project.Turning passion into profit requires commitment and boundaries.Setting boundaries is crucial in helping professions.Martyrdom can hinder personal growth and effectiveness.Goal boundaries are essential for maintaining relationships.Success can lead to feelings of villainization.Fulfilled individuals do not engage in negativity.Criticism often reflects the critic's own struggles.Courage is needed to face both success and failure.Self-worth is vital in navigating external criticism. The more you age, the less time you have available.It's alarmingly selfless to the point where that almost burnt the business.My social life is very challenging, but my real life is magnificent.From day to day, progress is invisible, but from month to month, it is impossible to miss.You will regret not reaching your full potential.If you don't grow and set goals, the pool goes away.Vulnerability is necessary because it requires courage.Fear of success is more dangerous than fear of failure.What you're capable of long term is unbelievable.You have to learn how to swim to stay in the pool.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Personal Growth01:47 The Evolution of Next Level University03:26 Turning Passion into Purpose and Profit07:31 Setting Boundaries in Helping Others10:31 Balancing Goals and Relationships14:45 The Challenges of Entrepreneurial Commitment18:01 Facing Fear and Embracing Failure18:59 Handling Criticism and Misunderstanding21:05 The Weight of Misunderstanding and Villainization21:49 Dealing with Critics and Negative Influences25:27 Self-Worth and Reminders of Purpose28:54 Reflecting on Progress and Self-Belief32:45 Learning from the Past to Build the Future36:00 The Importance of Goals and Mentorship37:04 Game Show Segment: Fear vs. Success39:38 Self-Belief vs. Self-Worth40:58 The Challenge of Consistency41:24 Inward vs. Outward Growth42:20 Metrics vs. Vulnerability45:49 Regret vs. Fear of Success
#RetrievingSanity #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #NextLevelUniversity #PersonalGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #Recovery #Healing #Passion #Purpose #Entrepreneurship #Coaching #Self-Worth #Success #Consistency #Metrics #Vulnerability #Regret
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 Oct 12, 2025
How To Delete Self-Limiting Beliefs with Dr. Alain Salas
Sunday Oct 12, 2025
Sunday Oct 12, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with Alain Salas, a chiropractic physician, who shares his transformative journey from a carefree life in France to a dedicated career in mental health and addiction recovery. Alain discusses the importance of understanding the subconscious mind, how it shapes our behaviors and beliefs, and introduces a three-step process to reprogram it: delete negative patterns, download positive ones, and create a new reality. The conversation delves into the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships and behaviors, particularly in the context of addiction and emotional pain. Alain emphasizes the need for alignment between thoughts, emotions, and actions for true healing and personal growth. In this conversation, Alain Salas discusses the profound connection between the mind and body, emphasizing how thoughts can influence our DNA and overall health. He explores the concept of generational trauma and its impact on our lives, advocating for the importance of reprogramming our subconscious beliefs to foster personal growth and healing. Alain shares his personal journey of overcoming significant obstacles, including a cancer diagnosis, and highlights the importance of aligning thoughts, emotions, and actions for a fulfilling life. The discussion also touches on the duality of existence, the significance of experience in healing, and the power of knowledge in empowering others. The conversation concludes with practical insights on identifying root causes of problems and creating new realities through focused intention and reprogramming.Check out his website here: https://themindclearing.com/
Takeaways
Your subconscious mind can be programmed at any time.The main programming happens from ages zero to seven.Addiction is often a way to numb trauma and pain.Healing requires alignment of thoughts, emotions, and actions.You can change your programming through visualization.The three steps to change are delete, download, and create.Expectations can lead to disappointment and confusion.Past experiences shape our present reality.True healing can happen quickly with the right approach.We are meant to be creators, not victims. Changing your thoughts can physically alter your DNA.Generational trauma can imprint on our DNA and behavior.The mind operates beyond the physical brain; it's an energetic entity.Our past experiences shape our present and future.True healing comes from understanding and addressing root causes.Empowerment comes from knowledge and experience.The duality of existence is essential for understanding life.Focus is crucial in the process of creation and change.Clearing old programming is necessary for personal growth.Cooperation is more beneficial than competition in 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



Thursday Oct 09, 2025
Is ADHD More Than We Think with Ron Souers
Thursday Oct 09, 2025
Thursday Oct 09, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a deep conversation with Ron Souers, who shares his personal journey with ADHD, addiction, and recovery. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding ADHD, the importance of self-advocacy, and the role of mindfulness in maintaining mental health. Ron emphasizes the significance of building connections and the power of vulnerability in relationships. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating workplace dynamics and the importance of open communication. Ron's passion for helping others with ADHD shines through as he shares insights and strategies for personal growth and connection.
Check out his website here: http://youradhdguy.com/
Takeaways
ADHD can be seen as a competitive edge rather than a flaw.Self-advocacy is crucial for those with ADHD.Mindfulness practices can help in recognizing and managing ADHD symptoms.Building connections can alleviate feelings of isolation.Vulnerability in communication fosters deeper relationships.Therapy can be a transformative tool for self-discovery.It's important to challenge societal misconceptions about ADHD.Open communication in the workplace enhances productivity and well-being.Personal experiences with addiction can inform advocacy work.Passion for helping others can stem from personal struggles.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to ADHD and Personal Journey02:05 Understanding ADHD: Myths and Realities04:39 The Impact of Addiction and Recovery07:26 Navigating Work and ADHD10:01 Finding Passion and Purpose12:56 Building Connections and Communication Skills16:23 Navigating Emotions and Boundaries17:47 The Power of Vulnerability18:30 Self-Medication and Its Consequences19:45 The Magic of Everyday Conversations23:47 Self-Advocacy and Communication27:43 The Challenge of Opening Up29:49 Learning Through Conversations34:06 The Importance of Listening and Support in the Workplace37:00 Building Workplace Friendships and Mental Health Awareness38:10 Transformations Through Support and Mindfulness38:47 Understanding Passion and Advocacy for ADHD40:53 Advocating for Mental Health and Safety in the Workplace42:27 The Power of Conversations and Connections47:48 Retrieving Sanity: Mindfulness and Reflection in Daily Life#RetrievingSanity #MentalHealthPodcast #ADHD #neurodivergent #neurospicy #different #weird #itsoktobedifferent #socialsettings #anxiety #stress #personalgrowth #personaldevelopment #friend #support
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 Oct 05, 2025
Learning How To Stop Fighting Yourself with Daryl Dittmer
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with Darrell Dittmer, who shares his journey of battling addiction and the insights he gained through recovery. Dittmer discusses the importance of finding a mentor, the role of gratitude, and the lessons learned from struggles. He emphasizes the need for self-honesty, setting boundaries, and living intentionally. The conversation explores the paradox of freedom that comes with responsibility and the significance of developing faith in something greater than oneself. In this conversation, Daryl Dittmer shares his insights on belief systems, moral clarity, and the importance of allowing life to unfold naturally. He emphasizes the significance of individual journeys in recovery, the need for self-reflection, and the path to contentment. Daryl discusses how personal growth involves discarding old beliefs and embracing new perspectives, ultimately leading to a fulfilling life.
Check out his website here: https://www.daryldittmer.com/
Takeaways
Many people struggle with fighting themselves due to addiction.Dittmer started drinking at a young age and faced many challenges.Finding a mentor in recovery can be transformative.Gratitude is essential and should be practiced like a muscle.Lessons learned through struggles often come with consequences.It's important to turn off the inner critic or 'ass-kicking machine.'Setting boundaries is crucial for personal well-being.The road to recovery may narrow, but freedom expands.Self-honesty is vital for personal growth and recovery.Developing faith in something greater can aid in recovery. Your belief system can be unimaginably big.Clarity comes when you remove substances from your life.Moral growth is about knowing what feels right for you.Recovery is a personal journey; no one can dictate your path.Allowing life to happen can lead to better mental health.Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth.You can change your belief system as you grow.Contentment is more sustainable than fleeting happiness.Blame hinders personal growth and recovery.Embrace the childlike wonder in life to find joy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Fighting Yourself02:33 Daryl's Journey Through Addiction05:30 The Role of Mentorship in Recovery08:23 Gratitude and the 12 Steps11:22 Lessons Learned from Sobriety14:26 Embracing Vulnerability and Honesty17:22 Turning Off the Ass-Kicking Machine22:22 Living Intentionally and Forgiving Ourselves24:16 Understanding Regret and Personal Growth27:03 The Importance of Boundaries29:31 The Paradox of Freedom and Restrictions31:45 Finding Personal Responsibility in Recovery34:12 Moral Clarity and Personal Beliefs36:06 Individual Journeys in Recovery38:32 Allowing Life to Happen40:05 Connecting with Nature and Self-Reflection45:05 Navigating Self-Reflection and Change46:47 The Importance of Authenticity48:34 Understanding Inner Conflict50:32 The Role of Allowing in Life52:31 Embracing Emotions and Life's Transience55:23 Retrieving Sanity: A Personal Journey59:07 The Power of Change and Self-Discovery01:02:00 Living a Life You Love#recovery #addictionrecovery #mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #gratitude #personalgrowth #12steps #boundaries #lifelessons #resilience #beliefsystems #moralclarity #allowinglife #selfreflection
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 Oct 05, 2025
How an Alcoholic Nun Recovered Her Sobriety with Gina Economopolous
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Gina Economopoulos, a first-time author and former nun, about her tumultuous journey through health struggles, the loss of her mother, and her battle with alcoholism. Gina shares her experiences of finding faith, becoming a nun, and ultimately navigating the complexities of addiction and recovery. Her memoir, 'Shake the Dust Off Your Feet and Walk,' serves as a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community in healing. The conversation delves into the importance of self-discovery, the impact of grief, and the ongoing journey of recovery, emphasizing that no one is alone in their struggles. Check her website out here: https://www.ginaecon.com/
Takeaways
Gina's journey reflects the struggle of losing foundational aspects of life.Health issues shaped Gina's identity and perspective on life.The loss of her mother at a young age led to a deep search for meaning.Gina's experience in the convent was both a spiritual journey and a struggle with addiction.Relationships can complicate recovery, especially when addiction is involved.Gina's path to sobriety involved confronting her past and embracing faith.Writing her memoir was a cathartic process for Gina.Gina emphasizes the importance of community and support in recovery.The game segment highlighted Gina's insights on personal growth and decision-making.Gina's story is a testament to resilience and the power of hope.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gina's Journey02:28 Health Struggles and Family Dynamics05:28 Loss and Grief: The Death of a Mother08:27 Finding Faith and Becoming a Nun11:19 Love and Loss: The Story of Danny14:20 Descent into Darkness and Seeking Help17:54 The Struggle with Alcohol in the Convent21:04 Writing My Story25:11 The Journey of Self-Discovery26:55 The Importance of the Steps29:18 Deprogramming and Reprogramming Faith32:43 Spiritual Awakening in Recovery34:02 Facing the Pain of Alcoholism36:31 Finding Freedom in Recovery38:00 The Common Denominator of Pain38:46 The Journey of Healing and Faith40:31 The Ongoing Process of Recovery44:06 Tools for Managing Life's Challenges44:48 Shake the Dust: A Game of Choices51:24 Retrieving Sanity: Living in Gratitude#alcoholicnun #recovery #addictionrecovery #faithwounds #healingjourney #loss #grief #triumph #overcomingstory
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 02, 2025
How To Beat Anxiety and Limiting Beliefs Without Drugs with Lauren Fonvielle
Thursday Oct 02, 2025
Thursday Oct 02, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with EFT coach Lauren Fonvielle about the transformative power of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). Lauren shares her personal journey with anxiety and how tapping has helped her and her clients find relief from emotional and physical pain. The conversation delves into the science behind EFT, its practical applications, and the importance of acknowledging emotions. They discuss the connection between mind and body, the role of intention in healing, and how tapping can be a versatile tool for personal growth and recovery. Lauren emphasizes the need for self-care and encourages listeners to explore different modalities to support their mental health journey.
Check her website out here: http://www.mindshiftwithlauren.com/
Takeaways
EFT is a practice that combines tapping on specific body points with emotional acknowledgment.
Personal experiences with anxiety can enhance empathy in coaching others.
Tapping can help release both emotional and physical pain.
Listening to the body is crucial for emotional and physical health.
EFT can reduce cortisol levels significantly, promoting calmness.
The practice is adaptable and can be integrated with other modalities like yoga and Reiki.
Acknowledging uncomfortable emotions is essential for healing.
Skepticism is common, but openness can lead to positive experiences with EFT.
Tapping can assist in overcoming limiting beliefs and enhancing self-confidence.
Self-care is vital; you cannot help others if you do not take care of yourself first.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to EFT and Personal Journey
02:32 The Impact of Tapping on Anxiety and Physical Pain
05:30 Understanding Emotions and Their Physical Manifestations
08:36 The Science Behind EFT and Its Effectiveness
11:23 Practical Application of EFT Techniques
14:20 EFT and Emotional Healing
17:25 Exploring the Connection Between Body and Mind
20:22 Incorporating Other Modalities with EFT
23:21 EFT in Everyday Life
26:16 Recognizing Changes and Healing with EFT
29:00 The Power of Intention in Energy Work
31:20 Acknowledging Emotions: The Key to Healing
32:23 Understanding Emotional Discomfort
36:24 Tapping as a Tool for Addiction and Cravings
39:47 Safety in Emotional Healing: The Gentle Approach
40:39 The Importance of Feeling to Heal
48:43 Real-Time Transformation Through Tapping
53:37 Integrating Tapping into Daily Life
📣Check out the website for a list of all guests! -- https://retrievingsanity.com
🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/week Mental Health Podcast
#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #EFT #emotionalfreedomtechnique #mentalhealth #anxiety #stressrelief #tappingtherapy #emotionalhealing #selfcare #personalgrowth #recovery
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 Sep 28, 2025
Breaking The Silence of Addiction with Damian Bloss
Sunday Sep 28, 2025
Sunday Sep 28, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Damian Bloss about his journey through addiction and recovery. Damian shares his experiences with trauma, survivor's guilt, and the impact of addiction on his life and relationships. He emphasizes the importance of breaking the silence around addiction, building a support system, and finding one's identity in recovery. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle of managing addiction as a disease and the significance of community support in the recovery process.
Takeaways
Breaking the silence is crucial for accountability.Trauma can trigger self-destructive behaviors.Survivor's guilt often leads to addiction.Alcohol can become a coping mechanism.Addiction is a disease that requires ongoing management.Support systems are vital in recovery.Outreach helps others and reinforces personal recovery.Recovery is a journey of self-discovery.It's important to build new habits in sobriety.Community support can provide a sense of belonging.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Breaking the Silence01:13 Damian's Journey Through Addiction05:16 The Impact of Trauma on Addiction08:54 The Cycle of Alcoholism and Self-Destruction12:55 Understanding Addiction as a Disease16:48 The Role of Support Systems in Recovery20:17 Finding Your Own Path in Recovery24:04 The Importance of Community in Sobriety27:52 Rock Bottom and the Turning Point31:35 The Detox Experience35:14 Identity Loss and Rediscovery in Recovery39:05 Building New Habits for a New Life42:45 The Role of Higher Power in Recovery46:29 The Importance of Family Support50:24 Conclusion and Resources for Help#mentalhealth #mentalhealthpodcasts #addictionrecovery #recoveryjourney #breakingthesilence #retrievingsanity #trauma #survivorsguilt #outreach #supportsystems #communitysupport #self-care #identity #loss #grief #coping
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









