Retrieving Sanity | Mental Health & Recovery from Addictions and Traumas

Escaping Abuse to Thriving with Julie Barth

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, we speak with Julie Barth, a writer and trauma survivor, about her journey through immense personal tragedy, caregiving, and the challenges of navigating toxic relationships. Julie shares her experiences of emotional and financial abuse, the importance of self-advocacy, and the lessons learned from her struggles. We like to emphasize the significance of finding strength in vulnerability, the complexities of parenting, and the impact of grief and loss on mental health. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, encouraging everyone to prioritize their well-being and seek support. You can find her website here: https://www.juliebarthauthor.net/
Takeaways
Julie Barth's journey highlights the importance of self-advocacy in overcoming trauma.Writing served as a therapeutic outlet for Julie during her husband's illness.Caregiving can be an overwhelming responsibility that often leads to caregiver burnout.It's essential to find strength in vulnerability and allow oneself to grieve.Navigating toxic relationships requires recognizing one's worth and setting boundaries.Substance abuse can complicate relationships and hinder personal growth.The court system can be challenging for those seeking to protect their children.It's crucial to prioritize mental health and seek help when needed.People often fear losing what they don't truly possess, leading to unhealthy attachments.True friendships are built on open communication and mutual respect.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Julie Barth's Journey01:34 The Writing Process Behind 'Notes from a Blackberry'04:30 The Challenges of Caregiving and Motherhood07:30 Navigating Grief and Identity After Loss10:24 The Struggles of a Second Marriage13:25 The Illusion of a Perfect Family16:23 Confronting Reality and Moving Forward20:34 The Impact of Relationships on Self-Perception22:47 Guilt and the Role of Motherhood26:15 The Turning Point: Protecting the Children30:39 Fighting for Self-Identity34:30 The Challenges of Family Court36:28 The Fear of Losing Control as a Caregiver38:01 Manipulation and the Illusion of Control38:59 Cherry-Picking Truths: Context Matters40:49 The Duality of Hero and Villain43:01 Inherent Goodness vs. Bad Actions45:58 Navigating Custody Battles and Parental Motives48:51 Power Moves vs. Pressure Points: A Game of Awareness54:00 Retrieving Sanity: The Importance of Self-Responsibility📣Check out the website for a list of all guests!  https://retrievingsanity.com 🔔Subscribe for more content ~2x/weekYour Mental Health Podcast #podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #traumarecovery #emotionalabuse #financialabuse #relationshipabuse #grief #loss #specialneedsmother #survivor #healingjourney #nonprofit
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 is Dissociation a Part of Healing? with Naomi Morad

Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages in a profound conversation with Naomi Morad, a trauma-informed psychosomatic practitioner. Naomi shares her journey from a life of trauma and dissociation to one of healing and empowerment. The discussion delves into the importance of understanding triggers, the role of the body in emotional healing, and the necessity of self-forgiveness. Naomi emphasizes that healing is an ongoing journey, where every individual has the power to choose their response to life's challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of support, the layers of healing, and the transformative power of choice in reclaiming one's life.
Be sure to stop by her website here: https://www.naomimorad.com/
Takeaways
Healing is a birthright and possible for everyone.Dissociation can be a survival mechanism during trauma.Understanding triggers is key to managing emotional responses.Childhood memories can resurface during the healing process.The decision to heal fully can transform one's life.Healing is an ongoing journey, not a destination.Coping can be a form of processing pain.We have the power to choose our reactions to circumstances.Forgiveness starts with self-forgiveness.Every part of us has a voice that needs to be heard.
Chapters
00:00 The Journey to Healing Begins02:08 Understanding Triggers and Patterns06:59 The Decision to Heal10:09 Dissociation: A Coping Mechanism11:50 Peeling the Layers of Trauma14:27 The Role of the Subconscious in Healing15:42 Emotions and the Body17:53 Verbal Processing and Gut Feelings19:13 Differentiating Between Fear and Excitement21:37 Coping and Healing24:05 Victimhood vs. Responsibility25:41 The Role of Therapy in Healing27:21 Everyday Healing Actions30:22 Trusting Intuition in Healing32:46 The Journey of Healing and Dedication34:47 Embracing Imperfection and Expectations36:40 The Journey of Healing39:01 Transformative Power of Healing40:05 Understanding Root Causes41:52 Navigating Pain and Identity42:46 The Essence of Forgiveness43:48 The Body's Role in Healing44:47 The Importance of Silence45:35 Finding Your Voice46:29 Creating Inner Safety47:20 Reclaiming Power Through Healing48:05 The Journey of Motherhood48:46 The Power of Choice49:44 Retrieving Sanity and Personal GrowthMusic being used: Music: Read Your Mind [Feat. Jason Walker] [Instrumental] by Atch is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Stream: https://linktr.ee/atchmusic Free Download: https://hypeddit.com/atchh/readyourmi... Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/471q5Yy Music: Reflection by Samurai Zack is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Support by RFM - NCM: • Reflection - Samurai Zack | @RFM_NCM Music: Addictions by Jay Someday is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Download / Stream: https://hypeddit.com/jaysomeday/addic... Support by RFM - NCM: • Addictions - Jay Someday | @RFM_NCM Music: Wanderer by Atch x Hotham is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Stream: https://linktr.ee/hothammusic Free Download: https://hypeddit.com/atchxhotham/wand... Support by RFM - NCM: • Wanderer - Atch x Hotham | Royalty Free Mu... Music: First Rain by Tokiwave / トキ波 is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://www.creativecommons.org/licen... Support by RFM - NCM: • First Rain - Tokiwave / トキ波 | Royalty Free...
#healing #trauma #mentalhealth #recovery #selfdiscovery #empowerment #psychosomatictherapy #emotionalhealing #personalgrowth #resilience #podcast #surivival #healingjourney #intuition #therapy
 
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

Quitting Addictions Using Lasers! with Meridee Hlokoff

Summary
In this conversation, Meridee Hlokoff shares her personal journey through addiction, trauma, and recovery, highlighting the impact of family dynamics and the importance of communication. She introduces cold laser therapy as a transformative method for overcoming addiction, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and self-reflection in the recovery process. The discussion delves into the science of addiction, the role of trauma, and the significance of finding hope and healing in one's journey.Be sure to check out her website here: https://laserquittherapy.ca/
Takeaways
Trauma can stem from small events, not just major incidents.Addiction often serves as a coping mechanism for underlying trauma.Cold laser therapy can aid in addiction recovery by balancing brain chemistry.Open communication within families can help address and heal trauma.Understanding the science of addiction is crucial for recovery.Relapse does not equal failure; it's part of the learning process.Self-reflection is key to understanding one's triggers and needs.Support systems play a vital role in maintaining sobriety.Meditation and quiet time can help in retrieving one's sanity.Finding hope is essential for those struggling with addiction.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Trauma and Addiction09:28 The Journey of Healing and Cold Laser Therapy19:39 The Role of Communication in Healing29:30 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth38:21 Understanding Emotions and Needs38:50 Internal Family Systems and Self-Dialogue39:46 Childhood Memories and Parental Impact40:41 Taking Responsibility for Our Reactions42:08 Communication and Apologies in Parenting43:22 The Role of Trust in Relationships44:52 Addiction and Communication Challenges49:10 The Science of Addiction and Endorphins52:04 Rehab and the Importance of Trauma Work56:28 Laser Therapy and Addiction Recovery01:01:09 Tools for Transformation and Personal Growth#addiction #recovery #nicotine #substanceuse #addictionrecovery #smoking #traumas #relapse #lasers #science #energies #energy #retrievingsanity #coldlasers #mentalhealth #healing #growth
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

Celebrating Milestones in Recovery with Past Co-Host Yunoel Cortes aka "Simba"

Summary
Simba is back for an update! He's doing well, and doing many great things with his Recovery! He's even engaged! Anyways, he's back to help shed some light on some past experiences, but to also catch us up with his milestones in Recovery! We might be able to see him back on from time to time more often, but we will just have to play it by ear. If y'all want him on more, let me know and we'll figure something out as best we can!
Takeaways
Yunoel's journey to becoming HIV undetectable was a significant milestone.Vulnerability is essential for healing and growth.Support systems play a crucial role in recovery.Pain is a universal experience that should not be compared.Healing is an ongoing process that requires self-reflection.Music can trigger memories and emotions that aid in healing.Teaching and learning often occur simultaneously in life experiences.Guilt can be a heavy burden, but accountability is important.The inner child needs nurturing and understanding for healing.Growth comes from recognizing and addressing past wounds. Healing can become an addiction if we constantly seek what needs fixing.Admitting we have parts to heal acknowledges our ongoing journey.Relationships serve as mirrors, reflecting our best and worst selves.Recognizing patterns in behavior helps us change outcomes.Creating a life worth living involves embracing small joys and goals.Support systems are crucial for navigating recovery and personal growth.Trust is built through experience and observation of others' actions.Emotional intelligence grows through uncomfortable conversations and experiences.Reflecting on past versions of ourselves can provide valuable insights.Growth through experience is essential for personal development.
Chapters
00:00 Journey of Acceptance and Celebration04:37 Reflections on Pain and Healing10:47 The Impact of Community and Change13:43 Learning from Loss and Moving Forward16:42 Healing Through Helping Others19:38 Cleaning Out Old Wounds22:46 The Power of Emotional Intelligence29:16 The Power of Music and Nostalgia30:22 Healing Through Memories and Experiences32:11 The Importance of a Clean Cup: Healing and Growth34:04 Financial Freedom and Life Lessons35:10 Reflecting on Relationships and Personal Growth37:28 Teaching and Learning Through Life Experiences39:52 The Inner Child and Personal Healing41:21 Living Authentically and Embracing Change43:09 Navigating Relationships and Support Systems46:13 Creating a Life Worth Living48:10 Gratitude and Acknowledging Support55:57 Graduating to New Levels of Healing57:19 Navigating Personal Relationships and Healing58:17 The Art of Reading People and Trust01:00:37 Trust: Evolving Perspectives and Experiences01:02:39 The Importance of Connection in Recovery01:04:20 Planning for Future Conversations01:05:46 Reflections on Growth and Connection01:08:50 Looking Back: Observing Past Versions of Ourselves01:11:39 The Journey of Recovery and Reinvention01:16:57 Shared Experiences and Learning from the Past01:22:53 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
#mentalhealth #addiction #recovery #HIV #vulnerability #supportsystems #healing #personalgrowth #emotionalintelligence #innerchild #resilience #healing #selfreflection #relationships #supportsystems #trust #vulnerability #personalgrowth #addictionrecovery #emotionalhealing #lifelessons #guilt #shame #remorse 
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

Mind Mapping to Truly Discover Yourself So You Can Heal with John Diggs

Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with John Diggs, a former NFL player turned mortgage mogul, about his transformative journey through adversity and the power of mind mapping. John shares his personal experiences of loss and recovery, emphasizing the importance of clarity and self-discovery through his I Am Mind Map. He introduces the concept of Mappineering, a unique approach to mind mapping that aids in personal development and mental health. The conversation explores practical applications of mind mapping for problem-solving, decision-making, and achieving personal goals, ultimately highlighting the significance of understanding one's identity and purpose in life.
Be sure to stop by his website here: https://johndiggs.com/ Takeaways
John Diggs transformed his life from NFL player to mortgage mogul.Adversity can lead to profound personal growth.Mind mapping is a powerful tool for clarity and organization.The I Am Mind Map helps define personal identity and purpose.Mappineering combines mind mapping with personal development.Active learning through mind mapping enhances understanding.Clarity in life leads to better decision-making and fulfillment.You don't need to prove your worth to anyone.Journaling is beneficial, but keep your entries for reflection.Mind mapping can help manage stress and overwhelm. 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to John Diggs and His Journey02:12 From NFL to Mortgage Mogul: A Life Transformed05:20 The Turning Point: Overcoming Adversity08:13 The Power of Mind Mapping: A New Perspective11:18 Creating the I Am Mind Map: Discovering Self14:15 Sharing the Message: Mind Mapping for Everyone21:59 The Power of Mind Mapping for Problem Solving25:20 Understanding the 'I Am' Concept29:47 Transformative Clarity Through Self-Discovery35:05 Building Confidence and Purpose38:46 The Mission of Helping Others42:04 Partnership for Positive Change42:34 Game Show: Map It or Scrap It44:03 Healing Through Reflection46:07 Proving Your Worth48:00 The Power of Journaling49:49 Planning Your Dream Vacation51:03 Mapping Motivation51:53 Honesty Over Busyness53:33 Establishing New Habits55:21 Mind Mapping: The Swiss Army Knife of Growth57:28 Mappineering: A Unique Approach to Mind Mapping58:55 Retrieving Sanity Through Mapping01:03:44 Exploring Mind Mapping Techniques#johndiggs #mindmapping #mentalhealth #personaldevelopment #overcomingadversity #iammindmap #mappineering #nfl #motivation #clarity #obstacles #overcome
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

Healing Your Mind After You're Paralyzed with Ken Kunken

(Host's Note: I'm changing some of my upload schedule, and with that comes extra content, so thank you for understanding as I get my guests awesome episodes out for everyone to hear!)Be sure to check out his website here: https://kenkunken.com/
Summary
In this inspiring conversation, Ken Kunken shares his journey from a promising football player to a quadriplegic after a life-altering injury. He discusses the challenges he faced, including depression and societal perceptions, and how he overcame them with the support of his family and friends. Ken's determination led him to become the first quadriplegic to graduate from Cornell University, pursue a successful legal career, and advocate for individuals with disabilities. He emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and the power of resilience, ultimately finding joy in his personal life as a husband and father of triplets.#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #resilience #advocacy #quadriplegia #education #legal #family #publicspeaking #inspiration #overcomingadversity #wheelchair #depression #sanity #healing #audiobook
Takeaways
Ken's injury did not define his spirit or potential.Support from family and friends is crucial in overcoming adversity.Education can be a powerful tool for empowerment.Resilience is about pushing through challenges and finding purpose.Advocacy for individuals with disabilities is essential.Believing in oneself is key to achieving goals.Life can be beautiful despite significant challenges.Public speaking can inspire and motivate others.The importance of setting high expectations for individuals with disabilities.Personal fulfillment comes from giving back and helping others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Overcoming Adversity02:03 The Life-Changing Injury: Ken's Football Accident04:43 The Journey from Despair to Hope07:31 Facing Challenges: The Reality of Spinal Cord Injury09:58 Returning to Cornell: A New Beginning12:25 Navigating College Life with a Disability15:06 Public Perception and Personal Struggles17:40 Finding Strength in Vulnerability19:17 Overcoming Adversity: Ken's Journey Back to School24:04 The Power of Public Speaking and Sharing Stories26:18 Pursuing a Career in Counseling and Education31:41 Breaking Barriers: Employment Challenges for Disabled Individuals36:58 A New Path: Transitioning to Law and Advocacy40:49 The Journey of Achievement and Humility41:58 Love and Relationships Beyond Limitations44:12 Fatherhood Against All Odds46:18 The Power of Storytelling: Ken's Book48:27 Fun and Games: A Lighthearted Segment56:41 Retrieving Sanity: Finding Happiness and Purpose
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

Reflections for Inner Healing and Burnout with Zoe Smith

Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan and guest Zoe Smith delve into the intersection of mental health, tarot, and intuition. They explore how tarot can serve as a tool for self-reflection and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of listening to one's intuition. The conversation also addresses the challenges of burnout, the significance of community support, and various techniques for reflection and stress management. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the ongoing journey of healing and the need for self-compassion in navigating life's complexities.Be sure to check out her website: https://yourvitalitycoaching.com/
Takeaways
Tarot can be a powerful tool for self-introspection.Intuition often provides clarity in decision-making.Life is a complex web of experiences and emotions.Burnout can manifest when we ignore our needs.Creating a holistic approach to wellness is essential.Community support plays a vital role in healing.Reflection techniques can aid personal growth.Healing occurs in layers, revealing deeper insights over time.It's important to prioritize self-care and reflection.We often feel trapped by our own choices, but change is possible.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating the Noise of Life02:20 Holistic Approaches to Wellness04:38 The Journey of Self-Discovery07:04 Creating a Toolbox for Mental Health09:06 The Importance of Community in Healing11:54 Reflection and Personal Growth14:20 Understanding Burnout and Overwhelm16:52 Finding Balance in Reflection19:08 The Power of Intuition and Energy21:49 Breaking Free from Self-Imposed Limitations29:47 Exploring the World of Tarot34:24 Intuition and Self-Reflection36:05 Gut Check Game Show40:14 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement#podcast #mentalhealthpodcast #retrievingsanity #tarot #intuition #selfreflection #burnout #wellness #community #personalgrowth #healing #stressmanagement
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

Healing Through Compassion: Ghosts and Grief with Tina Erwin

Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read engages with Tina Erwin, a metaphysical author and former Navy commander, to explore the intersections of mental health, spirituality, and the unseen world. Tina shares her unique insights on how military experiences have shaped her understanding of psychic abilities, the importance of compassion in healing grief, and the role of karma in our lives. The conversation delves into the significance of prayer, the impact of addiction on spiritual health, and the necessity of balance in relationships. Listeners are encouraged to experiment with spiritual practices and to consider the profound connections between the living and the dead.Be sure to check out her website: https://ghosthelpers.com/
Takeaways
Tina Erwin blends hard science with spiritual insight.Military experience can enhance psychic abilities.Understanding dimensions is key to metaphysical studies.Healing grief can involve helping spirits cross over.Suicide impacts families deeply and requires compassion.Alcohol can attract spirits and lower one's frequency.Karma is about action and reaction, not punishment.Generosity creates positive karma and balance.Setting boundaries is essential for healthy relationships.Prayer connects us to the divine and raises our frequency.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Metaphysics and Healing02:10 The Submarine Experience and Psychic Abilities04:48 Understanding Dimensions and Quantum Entanglement07:21 Grief, Suicide, and the Crossing Over Prayer09:58 Healing Through Helping Others12:35 Alcoholism, Spirits, and Frequency15:20 Karma, Spiritual Service, and Healing17:47 The Nature of Karma and Its Impact20:10 Balancing Karma and Life Lessons26:26 Community Generosity and Its Impact27:53 Intentional Giving and Personal Fulfillment29:16 Quiet Acts of Service and Environmental Stewardship31:13 Karma and Spiritual Protection32:38 Ego, Balance, and Team Dynamics35:58 Maintaining Balance in Relationships38:46 The Importance of Courtesy and Respect40:15 Exploring the Unseen: Ghosts and Healing46:27 Retrieving Sanity: Connection to the Divine#ghosts #afterlife #compassion #healing #retrievingsanity #mentalhealth #grief #loss #lifeafterloss #supernatural #prayer #psychic #unseen #magickMusic used: Reflection Music: Reflection by Samurai Zack is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Support by RFM - NCM: • Reflection - Samurai Zack | @RFM_NCM Addictions Music: Addictions by Jay Someday is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Download / Stream: https://hypeddit.com/jaysomeday/addic... Support by RFM - NCM: • Addictions - Jay Someday | @RFM_NCM First Rain Music: First Rain by Tokiwave / トキ波 is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://www.creativecommons.org/licen... Support by RFM - NCM: • First Rain - Tokiwave / トキ波 | Royalty Free... Wanderer Music: Wanderer by Atch x Hotham is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Stream: https://linktr.ee/hothammusic Free Download: https://hypeddit.com/atchxhotham/wand... Support by RFM - NCM: • Wanderer - Atch x Hotham | Royalty Free Mu...
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