In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Blake Hunt, a recovery therapist and person in recovery. They discuss Blake's journey through addiction, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of empathy in recovery. Blake shares his experiences of hitting rock bottom, surrendering to help, and ultimately finding purpose in his work as a therapist, helping others navigate their own recovery journeys. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Blake Hunt explore the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing themes of structure, acceptance, and the importance of making amends. They share personal experiences that highlight the ongoing journey of recovery, the significance of community support, and the aspirations for future contributions to the field of addiction treatment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for humility, the power of connection, and the role of surrender in the recovery process.

Chapters (If you care)

00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Mental Health 04:54 The Impact of Family Dynamics 10:23 Hitting Rock Bottom 14:08 The Turning Point: Surrendering to Help 17:24 Becoming a Recovery Therapist 21:27 Navigating Recovery Milestones 24:20 Imposter Syndrome in Therapy 28:17 Finding Common Ground in Recovery 31:16 The Need to Be Heard 33:12 Childhood Influences on Adult Behavior 35:10 Balancing Structure and Freedom 38:51 Navigating Structure and Control in Recovery 39:58 Acceptance and Adaptation in Life 41:39 The Journey of Making Amends 43:58 The Power of Connection and Understanding 45:58 Future Aspirations in Recovery 48:57 Setting Directions Without Timelines 50:50 Addressing Addiction and Community Needs 53:12 The Role of Surrender in Recovery 54:47 Resources and Support in Recovery 57:35 Blake ending

Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!

Check out Blake's stuff here: https://www.blakehuntrecovery.com/ 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 #recovery #addiction #support #therapy #12steps #retrievingsanity #healing

Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!

Summary In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Willie Handler, a descendant of Holocaust survivors and author of 'Out From the Shadows.' Willie shares his journey of uncovering his family's history, the impact of intergenerational trauma, and the transformative process of writing his memoir. He discusses the challenges of growing up in a household affected by trauma and how it shaped his life. The conversation delves into the importance of storytelling and community healing, as Willie embarks on a new project addressing the hidden victims of trauma. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Willie Handler explore the complexities of intergenerational trauma, particularly in the context of Holocaust survivors. They discuss how trauma can be passed down through generations, the importance of breaking the cycle, and the emotional toll of sharing personal stories. Willie shares his experiences interviewing survivors and the challenges of understanding their childhoods, while also reflecting on his own relationship with his parents and the impact of their experiences on his life. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, support, and therapy in navigating these difficult topics. In this conversation, Willie Handler shares his journey of finding the right therapist, managing trauma, and the importance of storytelling in making a difference in others' lives. He discusses the challenges of healing from trauma, emphasizing that while trauma may not fully heal, it can be managed. The conversation also touches on the significance of seeking help and the resources available for mental health support. You can find Willie's website Here #trauma #traumahealing #mentalhealth #podcast #interview #retrievingsanity #intergenerationaltrauma #holocausteducation

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

summaryIn this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Brett Cortez, a retired physician whose life was dramatically altered by opiate addiction. Brett shares his journey from a successful medical career to the depths of addiction, detailing the pivotal moments that led to his struggles and eventual recovery. The conversation explores themes of personal experience, the impact of addiction, the importance of willingness in recovery, and the role of a higher power in the healing process. In this episode, Keegan and Brett delve into the complexities of recovery from addiction, discussing the importance of sponsorship, the nature of addiction as a choice versus a circumstance, and the significance of community support. They share personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and lessons learned throughout their journeys, emphasizing the need to avoid the first drink and recognizing addictive behaviors. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding addiction compared to other illnesses, and the importance of building supportive relationships in recovery. Brett shares valuable insights and wisdom from his experiences, reinforcing the idea that recovery is a continuous journey that requires self-awareness and community support.takeaways

• Brett found common ground with others in rehab.
• His upbringing emphasized academics and achievement.
• A cancer diagnosis led him to pursue medicine.
• Opiates were first introduced during his cancer treatment.
• Boredom became a significant trigger for his addiction.
• He began stealing medication from patients.
• Recovery started after a 90-day rehab stint.
• The gift of desperation is crucial for recovery.
• Willingness is essential for making progress in recovery.
• Building a relationship with a higher power is important. Working with a sponsor is a personal relationship.
• Addiction is not a choice; it's a disease.
• Avoiding the first drink is crucial in recovery.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of addiction.
• Stigma around addiction differs from other illnesses.
• Community support is vital for recovery.
• Friendships can change during recovery.
• Addiction is often viewed as a moral failing.
• Recognizing addictive behaviors is essential.
• Recovery requires ongoing self-awareness and support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Addiction Recovery

02:59 Brett's Journey: From Surgeon to Addiction

05:56 The Impact of Opiates on Brett's Life

08:57 Boredom and Triggers in Addiction

11:55 The Downward Spiral of Addiction

15:01 Recovery Begins: The Role of Rehab

18:13 The Gift of Desperation and Willingness

20:56 Practicing Willingness and Building Trust

23:59 The Importance of a Higher Power

25:33 The Role of Sponsorship in Recovery

28:09 Understanding Addiction: Choice vs. Circumstance

29:46 The Importance of Avoiding the First Drink

33:15 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons Learned

37:19 The Stigma of Addiction vs. Other Illnesses

40:15 Building a Supportive Recovery Community

43:00 Friendships and Relationships in Recovery

45:08 The Moral Perspective on Addiction

51:27 Recognizing Addictive Behaviors

57:22 Wisdom from Recovery Experiences

#addiction #recovery #addictionrecovery #opiate #drugs #alcoholism #desperatation #cancer #fight #onedayatatime

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

summaryIn this engaging conversation, Dale Walsh shares his profound journey through mental health challenges, particularly schizophrenia. He discusses his unique approach to poetry as a means of expression, the misconceptions surrounding mental illness, and the vital role of family support and therapy in his recovery. Dale also reflects on his personal history, the impact of societal perceptions, and his journey of self-reinvention, all while maintaining a humorous and insightful perspective on life. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Dale E Walsh explore the complexities of living with schizophrenia, touching on themes of self-perception, the impact of mental illness on relationships, and the importance of education for families. Dale shares his personal experiences with hospitalizations, coping strategies, and the humor he finds in his condition. The discussion emphasizes the need to challenge stereotypes surrounding mental illness and the significance of response versus reaction in managing relationships with loved ones. Dale also shares his aspirations for the future, including writing projects and personal growth.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dale Walsh and His Journey

02:55 The Poetic Expression of Mental Health

06:02 Understanding Schizophrenia and Its Misconceptions

08:58 Family Dynamics and Support in Mental Health

11:57 The Role of Therapy in Recovery

15:00 The Impact of Personal History on Mental Health

17:57 Reinventing Oneself: The Journey of Dale Walsh

20:59 Conspiracies and Generational Perspectives

27:39 Perceptions of Self and Others

28:47 Understanding Schizophrenia

30:46 Living with Schizophrenia

32:56 Hospitalizations and Rebirths

34:10 Finding Humor in Schizophrenia

37:29 Response vs. Reaction

39:23 Educating Families

40:45 Breaking Codependency

41:34 Future Aspirations

54:07 Challenging Stereotypes

Visit: https://www.dewlivelove.net/

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

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Zander, the Z Play coach, about the significance of play in our lives, especially as adults. Zander emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our childlike spirit through play, discussing techniques to activate a 'play flow state' and the benefits of activities like juggling and using a footbag. The conversation explores how play can enhance mental health, foster connections, and combat self-consciousness, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace playfulness in their daily lives. In this conversation, Zander shares his passion for play and the importance of creating connections through playful activities. He discusses the ultimate gift of play, the tools he creates to facilitate it, and the personal connections that arise from sharing these experiences. The dialogue explores the challenges of adulting, the need for permission to play, and the responsibility that comes with spreading joy. Zander emphasizes the significance of making time for play, especially in a digital age that often distracts from real human connections. The conversation concludes with a focus on combating digital isolation and the importance of fostering community through play. In this engaging conversation, Keegan Read and Zander explore the challenges of digital addiction, particularly among the younger generation, and the importance of finding balance between technology and real-life interactions. They discuss the significance of play in rediscovering purpose and joy, especially in a world increasingly influenced by AI. The conversation also highlights the power of gratitude in overcoming life's challenges and the importance of mental health awareness, emphasizing the need for accessible crisis support.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Play and Its Importance

03:06 Understanding the Play Flow State

05:57 The Role of Play in Adult Life

09:12 Techniques to Reconnect with Play

12:00 The Benefits of Juggling for Mental Health

15:02 Exploring the Footbag and Its Impact

19:36 The Ultimate Gift of Play

20:26 Creating and Sharing Play Tools

22:30 The Power of Personal Connection

23:43 The Gift of Play and Its Impact

24:37 Permission to Play

26:04 Navigating the Responsibility of Joy

27:40 Making Time for Play

29:00 Breaking Down Barriers to Play

30:36 Play in Serious Situations

32:18 Addressing Digital Distractions

35:20 Combating Digital Isolation

36:54 The Importance of Human Connection

39:13 The Struggle with Digital Addiction

42:06 Finding Balance in Gaming and Real Life

43:03 Rediscovering Purpose in a Tech-Driven World

44:41 The Role of Play in Finding Joy and Purpose

50:15 The Power of Gratitude in Overcoming Challenges

55:20 Crisis Support and Mental Health Awareness

#play #mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #personalgrowth #permission #flowstate #playstate #footbag #digitaladdiction #happiness

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Austin Page, a mindset and fitness coach, about his transformative journey from a reckless lifestyle to a purpose-driven life. Austin shares the harrowing details of a life-altering car accident that led him to reevaluate his choices and ultimately find a new identity through rehabilitation and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of mindset in overcoming adversity and encourages listeners to take control of their lives by building a better version of themselves. In this conversation, Keegan Read and Austin Page explore the themes of personal growth, mindfulness, and the importance of setting boundaries. They discuss the significance of living in the present, using regret as a guide for better decision-making, and the necessity of building oneself up before helping others. The dialogue emphasizes the need to identify and cut out negative influences, or 'anchors,' in life, and the power of saying 'no' to foster self-discipline. They also touch on the concept of creating a personal brand to define one's future self and the importance of learning from those we admire. In this conversation, Keegan and Austin explore the importance of implementing daily practices for personal growth, the value of role models, and the connection between physical and mental health. They discuss mindset training, the significance of actions in shaping identity, and the importance of accountability. The episode concludes with a focus on mental health awareness and crisis support resources.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Austin Page and His Journey

02:15 The Life-Changing Accident

06:17 Rehabilitation and Personal Growth

09:20 Finding Purpose Through Pain

12:42 Creating a New Identity

14:36 Mindset and Personal Development

17:21 Embracing the Present: The Power of Today

18:35 Using Regret as a Guide: Learning from Past Mistakes

20:12 Mindfulness and Control: Navigating Life's Challenges

21:55 Building Yourself First: The Path to Selflessness

24:38 Identifying and Cutting Anchors: Letting Go of Negativity

27:31 The Power of No: Setting Boundaries for Self-Improvement

30:41 Creating a Personal Brand: Defining Your Future Self

36:27 Implementing Daily Practices for Personal Growth

39:10 Finding Role Models and Learning from Them

42:22 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health

45:11 Mindset Training: Building Discipline and Accountability

51:44 Creating Identity Through Actions

54:36 Crisis Support and Mental Health Awareness

You can find his website here: https://gymflocoaching.com/

#newyou #retrievingsanity #recovery #reckless #recklesstoredemption #mentalhealth #coach #winthemorning #youcandoit #mentaltraining #self-improvement #personalgrowth #discipline #rolemodels

Summary

In this conversation, Holocaust survivor Benjamin Lesser shares his harrowing experiences during the Holocaust, detailing his life before, during, and after the atrocities. He discusses the importance of remembrance, mental health, and the legacy of sharing stories to educate future generations. Lesser emphasizes the need for schools to teach about the Holocaust comprehensively and the role of his foundation in preserving these memories. The discussion also touches on the impact of trauma, the significance of literature, and the use of technology to keep the stories alive. In this profound conversation, Benjamin Lesser shares his harrowing experiences as a Holocaust survivor, exploring themes of faith, free will, love, and the importance of remembrance. He reflects on the loss of trust and the journey towards forgiveness, emphasizing the need to choose love over hate in today's world. Lesser discusses the impact of his past on his parenting and the significance of teaching future generations about kindness and acceptance. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of love in overcoming trauma.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Holocaust Experience

02:48 Life Before the Holocaust

06:35 The Impact of the Nazi Occupation

10:50 Survival and Liberation

14:33 Books and Resources on the Holocaust

17:24 Mental Health After Trauma

21:09 The Importance of Remembrance

23:46 Continuing the Legacy

26:50 Empowering the Next Generation

30:19 Cherished Memories

32:20 Using Technology for Storytelling

36:21 Shouting Out for Peace

38:08 Open Conversation and Reflections

47:00 Faith and Free Will in the Face of Atrocity

50:05 Trust and Forgiveness After Trauma

53:06 The Power of Love Over Hate

53:57 Parenting Through the Lens of Trauma

56:52 The Complexity of Forgiveness

59:58 Resistance and Resilience During the Holocaust

01:03:01 The Importance of Teaching Love

01:06:07 Choosing Love in a Divided World

01:10:15 Finding Purpose After Trauma

01:11:56 The Role of Family in Healing

01:14:05 Final Reflections and Messages of Hope

#holocaust #survivor #mentalhealth #love #lovenothate #retrievingsanity #recovery #adversity #strong #overcome

Summary

In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Jessi Hartnett about her journey through addiction and recovery. Jessi shares her experiences with smoking, drinking, and the challenges she faced along the way. They discuss the concept of initiation in substance use, the interplay of nature and nurture in addiction, and the pivotal moments that led to recovery. Jessi emphasizes the importance of self-talk and the power of affirmations in overcoming negative beliefs and fostering self-love. In this conversation, Jessi Hartnett and Keegan Read explore the complexities of self-talk, emotional regulation, and the journey of addiction recovery. They discuss the importance of affirmations, the role of meditation in managing emotions, and the significance of accepting one's feelings. The dialogue also delves into the challenges of triggers and cravings, emphasizing the need for self-compassion and understanding in the healing process. Ultimately, they highlight the value of personal growth through adversity and the importance of nurturing oneself. In this conversation, Jessi Hartnett and Keegan Read explore themes of acceptance, gratitude, transformation, and the journey of self-discovery. They discuss the importance of moving forward from past traumas, the power of gratitude in recovery, and the necessity of embracing struggles as part of personal growth. Jessi shares insights from her book 'Honor Your Heart', emphasizing the significance of connecting with one's heart and intuition in the healing process. The conversation concludes with a reminder of the importance of community and support in navigating life's challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Recovery Journeys

02:56 The Struggles of Addiction

05:58 The Role of Initiation in Substance Use

09:08 Nature vs. Nurture in Addiction

11:59 The Pivot Points in Recovery

14:58 Self-Talk and Its Impact on Recovery

18:03 The Power of Affirmations

22:02 Mothering Yourself: A New Approach to Self-Care

27:57 Accepting Emotions: The Key to Healing

31:00 Triggers and Cravings: Managing Addiction

35:05 Deep Roots of Addiction: Understanding Personal Struggles

37:43 Acceptance and Moving Forward

39:03 The Power of Gratitude

40:45 Transformation Through Struggle

42:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery

44:38 Releasing the Need for External Validation

46:38 Healing from Trauma and Addiction

51:18 Connecting with the Heart

54:19 The Importance of Intuition

55:31 Introducing 'Honor Your Heart'

Check out her website here:

Honoryourheart.net

#interview #smoking #recovery #addiction #mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #honoryourheart #awareness #nicotine #smokingrecovery