Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

What does it take to raise confident, emotionally resilient kids in a world that feels louder, harsher, and more disconnected than ever? In this powerful episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Marine Officer, leadership mentor, and children’s author Olaolu Ogunyemi to talk about insecurity, identity, discipline, and why leadership always starts at home. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 4.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “You’re good enough as you are.” — Olaolu Ogunyemi Episode Description Before he became a Marine Officer, leadership mentor, and award-winning children’s author, Olaolu Ogunyemi was a kid who didn’t feel like he fit in. Growing up as the son of Nigerian immigrants in Louisiana, struggling with insecurity about his name, his appearance, and his identity, Olaolu found himself acting out just to belong. In this honest and heartfelt conversation, he shares how rebellion turned into resilience — and how those early struggles shaped his mission to help parents raise confident, emotionally strong children. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles dig into the real stuff: why discipline isn’t about punishment, how insecurity shows up in kids (and adults), the pressure boys feel to hide pain, and why connection at home is the foundation for leadership everywhere else. Olaolu opens up about fatherhood, military life, his son’s health challenges, and the hard lesson of learning you can’t control everything. This episode is for the parents who want to do better than what they were taught. For the dads who want to lead with empathy. For the moms raising boys to be emotionally aware men. And for anyone who needed to hear, at 12 years old, “You’re already enough.” Because raising resilient kids doesn’t start with control.It starts with connection. Keywords: Olaolu Ogunyemi, emotionally resilient children, confident kids, parenting tips, mental health, fatherhood, emotional intelligence, discipline vs punishment, leadership at home, raising boys, identity development, self-worth, resilience, family connection, positive parenting Meet Our Guest — Olaolu Ogunyemi Olaolu Ogunyemi is a Marine Officer, leadership mentor, parenting advocate, and award-winning children’s book author. As the founder of Parent-Child-Connect and author of Crow From the Shadow, Billy Dipper’s Time to Shine, and Horace the Horsefly, he equips parents with practical tools to build connection, confidence, and character in their children. His upcoming book, Lead Last, continues his mission to develop service-driven leaders at home and beyond. Website: https://parent-child-connect.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/olaolu.ogunyemiX: https://x.com/Olaolu_OgunyemiPinterest: https://pin.it/3heBVMvYouTube: https://youtube.com/@olaoluogunyemi?si=zL0_VWAq81g2B5hKInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/olaolu.ogunyemi/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaolu-ogunyemi-465ba453 Key Takeaways Discipline should build connection, not fear. Insecurity in kids often shows up as rebellion. Boys need emotional permission, not just toughness. You can’t control everything — and trying to will exhaust you. Leadership begins in the home, long before it shows up in the workplace. Actionable Items Tell your child one thing you genuinely admire about who they are — not what they achieve. Replace “Why did you do that?” with “Help me understand what was going on for you.” Schedule 15 minutes this week to enter your child’s world — their game, their hobby, their music. No correcting. Just connecting. References Mentioned Parent-Child-Connect: https://parent-child-connect.com/ Important Chapters 00:01:00 – Who is Olaolu Ogunyemi? From insecurity to impact 00:12:00 – Why fitting in nearly derailed his future 00:20:00 – The real meaning of discipline 00:30:00 – Military systems vs emotional intelligence 00:35:00 – Parenting through health scares and letting go of control 00:45:00 – Advice to his 12-year-old self Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #EmotionallyResilientKids #ParentingTips #ConfidentChildren #FatherhoodMatters #PositiveParenting #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment #RaisingBoys #FamilyConnection #IdentityAndSelfWorth #ResilientFamilies #ParentingPodcast ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the anxiety, control, and burnout you’re battling aren’t flaws — but outdated survival strategies from childhood? In this powerful episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Yvonne Trost to unpack subconscious programming, inner child healing, and what it really takes to escape the success trap and finally feel emotionally free. About the Show + Vote Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Help Us Bring This Award Home We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast. If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote. Voting is quick and easy: You do not need to sign up for Patreon Once you hit submit, your vote is sent Vote here: https://shorturl.at/mpReA Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time. Mental Health Quote “You have a mind, but you are not your mind — and you don’t have to let it slap you around anymore.” — Yvonne Trost Episode Description For 25 years, Yvonne Trost thrived in high-pressure corporate leadership roles. On paper, she had the success. The title. The image. The achievement. But underneath it all? She was running on empty. In this raw and honest conversation, Yvonne shares how her divorce became the wake-up call that forced her to confront the subconscious beliefs driving her perfectionism, control, and constant need to prove her worth. What she discovered changed everything: most of the “shit that goes on in our heads” was programmed before we were 10. Together, we talk about subconscious reprogramming, hypnotherapy, inner child healing, fear of failure, fear of success, and how anxiety often shows up as protection — not weakness. Yvonne introduces her three-step framework: Realize, Recode, Rewrite — a process designed to help high achievers stop operating from outdated survival scripts and start living from intention and emotional freedom. If you’ve ever felt trapped in the success trap — chasing achievement while secretly feeling unfulfilled — this episode is your permission slip to upgrade your internal operating system. Because real success isn’t about the title. It’s about how free you feel inside. Keywords: Yvonne Trost, inner child healing, subconscious reprogramming, hypnotherapy, anxiety recovery, emotional freedom, burnout recovery, perfectionism, fear of success, fear of failure, corporate burnout, mindset transformation, nervous system regulation, self-worth, high achievers Meet Our Guest — Yvonne Trost Yvonne Trost is a Mindset Transformation Expert, speaker, and co-founder of LimitlessYou, a transformational coaching company helping high-achieving professionals break free from subconscious limitations. With 25 years of experience in corporate leadership and business transformation, Yvonne now guides entrepreneurs and leaders through neuroscience-backed subconscious reprogramming, hypnosis, and coaching to create lives rooted in confidence, peace, and authenticity. Website: https://unlocklimitlessyou.com/why-us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unlocklimitlessyou/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unlocklimitlessyou/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnlockLimitlessYou Key Takeaways Most anxiety and control patterns are subconscious survival strategies formed before age 10. You are not your thoughts — you can retrain your mind. Depression and burnout are often protective responses, not personal failures. Compassion + curiosity are more powerful than judgment. Real freedom starts with healing your inner child. Actionable Items Try mirror work: Tell your younger self what you’re proud of, what you’re releasing, and what you’re committing to. Notice when fear, doubt, judgment, or self-pity show up — pause and ask what your body is trying to protect you from. Shift from “Why is this happening to me?” to “How is this happening for me?” References Mentioned Unlock Limitless You: https://unlocklimitlessyou.com/why-us/ Self-Love Quiz: https://unlocklimitlessyou.com/ Important Chapters 00:02:30 – The “Door to Anywhere” metaphor and breaking small-town limitations 00:07:00 – Why control is your subconscious mind trying to protect you 00:18:30 – Fear of success vs. fear of failure 00:24:00 – The Unfabulous Four: fear, judgment, doubt, and self-pity 00:34:00 – E = MC² redefined: Mindful thinking, compassion, and curiosity 00:44:00 – Mirror work and reconnecting with your inner child 00:48:50 – Favorite word: Breathe. Least favorite word: Fair. Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #InnerChildHealing #SubconsciousMind #AnxietyRecovery #BurnoutRecovery #EmotionalFreedom #MindsetShift #NervousSystemRegulation #CorporateBurnout #HighAchievers #SelfWorth #Hypnotherapy #PersonalGrowth #HealingJourney ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if buying a house wasn’t just a transaction—but a transformation? In this powerful episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Scott Harris to talk about addiction recovery, ADHD, emotional growth, and why finding a home is deeply tied to our mental health.   Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Help Us Bring This Award Home We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast. If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote. Voting is quick and easy: You do not need to sign up for Patreon Once you hit submit, your vote is sent Vote here: https://shorturl.at/mpReA Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time.   Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to do this alone. The moment you stop trying to be the hero is the moment everything changes.” — Scott Harris Episode Description When Scott Harris woke up on May 19, 2019, after drinking too much tequila, he made a decision that would change everything: he was done. Not because he hit rock bottom—but because he was tired of the anxiety, the noise in his head, and the feeling that he wasn’t living up to his potential. In this honest and unexpectedly emotional conversation, Scott joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about addiction recovery, ADHD, leadership, and the surprising mental health journey behind buying a home. As a top New York City real estate broker and author of The Pursuit of Home, Scott explains why purchasing a house is rarely “just a deal.” It’s a transition—one that tests relationships, communication styles, identity, and self-trust. Scott shares how alcohol once helped him self-medicate his ADHD and social anxiety, and how sobriety opened the door to clarity, vulnerability, and writing his bestselling book. Together, the trio unpacks the emotional rollercoaster of house hunting, why communication can make or break both marriages and real estate deals, and how the right support system changes everything. This episode is about more than property. It’s about healing, connection, courage, and learning that you don’t have to go through life—or recovery—alone. Keywords: Scott Harris, addiction recovery, ADHD, sobriety journey, mental health podcast, buying a home, emotional intelligence, anxiety recovery, leadership vulnerability, personal growth, real estate psychology, The Pursuit of Home, communication in relationships, life transitions Meet Our Guest — Scott Harris Scott Harris is a nationally bestselling author and top New York City real estate broker who has sold nearly $2 billion in residential property. Founder of MAGNETIC and creator of The Magnetic Method, Scott empowers clients to align their real estate decisions with their personal growth. His book, The Pursuit of Home: A Real Estate Guide to Achieving the American Dream, blends practical strategy with emotional insight. Connect with Scott: Website (Book): https://pursueyourhome.com Company: https://magneticre.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottieharris/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrisresidential/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottHarrisResidentialTeam YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@magneticre X: https://x.com/scottieharris TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scottharrisfindinghome?lang=en Substack: https://thepursuitofhome.substack.com/ Key Takeaways Sobriety can unlock clarity, leadership, and untapped potential. ADHD isn’t a flaw—it’s energy that needs direction and awareness. Buying a home is a psychological and emotional transition, not just paperwork. Communication styles matter—especially between partners during big life decisions. The right support system can steady you during life’s most stressful moments. You don’t have to be the hero. Connection heals.   Actionable Items Before making a major life decision, ask: Who’s in my support circle—and are they truly supportive? If you’re house hunting, clarify your communication style and share it with your partner and agent. If alcohol or another habit is quieting anxiety temporarily, explore what it might be covering—and consider reaching out for support.   References Mentioned The Pursuit of Home — https://pursueyourhome.com 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org/ Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:02:00 – Scott’s sobriety wake-up call 00:07:00 – ADHD, self-medication, and anxiety 00:15:00 – Writing The Pursuit of Home at 5 AM 00:22:00 – Why buying a home is emotionally intense 00:30:00 – Communication styles and relationship stress 00:40:00 – The house that contributed to a divorce 00:44:00 – Why you shouldn’t go through big transitions alone Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #AddictionRecovery #ADHDAwareness #SobrietyJourney #AnxietyRecovery #EmotionalWellness #HomeBuyingJourney #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #LifeTransitions #CommunicationSkills #RecoveryIsPossible #RealEstateLife #HealingThroughConnection #ThePursuitOfHome test to see if this is distribued to iHeart ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 2 of this powerful two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles continue their deep dive with Greg Vorst and Michael Nolan of Embodied Recovery — and this one hits straight at the heart of parenting, anxiety, emotional regulation, and breaking generational trauma cycles. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Help Us Bring This Award Home We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast. If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote. Voting is quick and easy: You do not need to sign up for Patreon Once you hit submit, your vote is sent Vote here: https://shorturl.at/mpReA Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time.   “It’s okay to be who you are.” — Michael Nolan Episode Description if Episode 1 was about personal recovery, Episode 2 is about what happens when that recovery starts shaping the next generation. Greg and Michael open up about parenting through the lens of emotional awareness, breaking generational trauma, and refusing to pass down unprocessed wounds. They talk honestly about anxiety, codependency, setting boundaries, and how to validate your child’s emotions without minimizing them — even when it feels uncomfortable. The conversation moves into leadership, accountability, and the hard truth that good intentions don’t always land the way we hope. From inner child healing to conscious parenting and staying “unhooked” from others’ reactions, this episode is about doing the inner work so your kids don’t have to undo it later. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I parent differently than I was parented?” — this episode is your starting point. Keywords: Greg Vorst, Michael Nolan, Embodied Recovery, parenting and mental health, generational trauma, anxiety management, codependency recovery, conscious parenting, emotional regulation, inner child healing, addiction recovery podcast, trauma-informed parenting, boundaries in families, mental health leadership Meet Our Guests — Greg Vorst & Michael Nolan Greg Vorst, LMFT is Co-Founder and CEO of Embodied Recovery in Los Gatos, California. Drawing from psychodynamic therapy, Internal Family Systems, humanistic psychology, and Korean Taoist breathwork (SunDo), Greg helps clients transform addiction and trauma into embodied living and spiritual growth. His personal healing journey began after a failed surgery left him in prolonged suffering, ultimately guiding him into therapy, inner child work, and decades of spiritual practice. Website: https://www.embodiedrecovery.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embodiedrecoverycenters/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/embodiedrecoverycenters YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@embodiedrecoverycenters Michael Nolan, CADC-II, ICADC is Co-Founder and COO of Embodied Recovery. Sober since August 8, 2007, Michael’s recovery began in Alcoholics Anonymous and evolved into a life of service. Through years of addiction counseling and deep personal work, he now supports clients in integrating accountability, humility, and embodied peace into their recovery journey. Key Takeaways You cannot break generational trauma without doing your own inner work. Emotional literacy must be modeled before it can be taught. Boundaries are not rejection — they are protection. Children need validation before correction. Staying “unhooked” keeps you from projecting your past onto the present. Recovery shapes families, not just individuals. Actionable Items When your child (or partner) expresses a big emotion, validate it before solving it. Notice where your reactions may be tied to your childhood experiences. Practice one clear boundary this week without apologizing for having it. References Mentioned Embodied Recovery — https://www.embodiedrecovery.com/ Melos Center (Nonprofit Partner) — https://meloscenter.org Alcoholics Anonymous — https://www.aa.org/ NAMI — https://www.nami.org/ SAMHSA — https://www.samhsa.gov/ Important Chapters 00:01:00 – Daily anxiety tools and grounding practices 00:10:00 – Inner child work and expressive healing 00:20:00 – Parenting differently than you were parented 00:32:00 – Breaking generational trauma cycles 00:40:00 – Leadership, accountability, and staying unhooked 00:50:00 – Words matter: favorite and least favorite words Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews   #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ParentingAndMentalHealth #GenerationalTrauma #ConsciousParenting #InnerChildHealing #CodependencyRecovery #AnxietyManagement #EmotionalRegulation #AddictionRecovery #BoundariesMatter #TraumaHealing #HealingGenerations #RecoveryJourney #MentalHealthLeadership podscan_kAnSuShcgs1b3mdEgys8N1z7XDPUQXFn ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When recovery becomes more than just staying sober — when it becomes embodied, lived, and deeply felt — everything changes. In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Greg Vorst and Michael Nolan to unpack addiction, inner child healing, breathwork, and what real transformation actually looks like. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Help Us Bring This Award Home We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast. If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote. Voting is quick and easy: You do not need to sign up for Patreon Once you hit submit, your vote is sent Vote here: https://shorturl.at/mpReA Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time.   “You don’t have to believe everything you think.” — Greg & Michael Episode Description In this first half of our conversation, Greg Vorst and Michael Nolan, co-founders of Embodied Recovery in Northern California, share how their personal journeys through addiction, anxiety, trauma, and spiritual crisis led them to build a treatment center rooted in lived experience — not just theory. Michael opens up about entering treatment at 20 and the humility of 12-step recovery. Greg shares his unexpected transition from opera singer to therapist after a failed surgery triggered years of physical and emotional suffering. Together, they unpack the wounded healer model and why authentic recovery requires more than clinical knowledge — it requires doing your own work. We talk about codependency, emotional regulation, nervous system healing, and the Korean Taoist breathwork practice SunDo — a cornerstone of their daily lives and programming. This episode dives deep into inner child work, identity, validation, and the courage it takes to stop performing and start living. If you’ve ever felt like you’re surviving instead of embodying your life, this conversation will hit home. Keywords: Greg Vorst, Michael Nolan, Embodied Recovery, addiction recovery, trauma healing, inner child work, breathwork, SunDo meditation, codependency recovery, 12-step program, mental health podcast, anxiety recovery, nervous system regulation, emotional healing Meet Our Guests — Greg Vorst & Michael Nolan Greg Vorst, LMFT is Co-Founder and CEO of Embodied Recovery in Los Gatos, California. Drawing from psychodynamic therapy, Internal Family Systems, humanistic psychology, and Korean Taoist breathwork (SunDo), Greg helps clients transform addiction and trauma into embodied living and spiritual growth. His personal healing journey began after a failed surgery left him in prolonged suffering, ultimately guiding him into therapy, inner child work, and decades of spiritual practice. Website: https://www.embodiedrecovery.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embodiedrecoverycenters/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/embodiedrecoverycenters YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@embodiedrecoverycenters Michael Nolan, CADC-II, ICADC is Co-Founder and COO of Embodied Recovery. Sober since August 8, 2007, Michael’s recovery began in Alcoholics Anonymous and evolved into a life of service. Through years of addiction counseling and deep personal work, he now supports clients in integrating accountability, humility, and embodied peace into their recovery journey. Key Takeaways Recovery is not just about abstinence — it’s about embodiment. You don’t have to believe every thought that runs through your mind. Codependency drains helpers faster than addiction drains users. Inner child work isn’t optional — it’s foundational. Daily practices create lasting emotional regulation. Healing requires accountability AND compassion. Actionable Items Try box breathing or diaphragmatic breathing when anxiety spikes. Notice one self-critical thought today and practice not attaching to it. Identify one daily practice (gratitude, breathwork, journaling) and commit to it for 30 days. References Mentioned Embodied Recovery — https://www.embodiedrecovery.com/ Melos Center (Nonprofit Partner) — https://meloscenter.org Alcoholics Anonymous — https://www.aa.org/ NAMI — https://www.nami.org/ SAMHSA — https://www.samhsa.gov/ Important Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + how Greg & Michael met 09:00 – Michael’s early addiction and entering treatment 16:00 – Greg’s spiritual crisis and opera-to-therapy journey 25:00 – Codependency and the wounded healer 35:00 – SunDo breathwork and nervous system regulation 45:00 – Inner child work and reclaiming authenticity Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews   #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #AddictionRecovery #TraumaHealing #InnerChildWork #EmbodiedRecovery #CodependencyHealing #12StepRecovery #AnxietyRecovery #BreathworkHealing #NervousSystemRegulation #EmotionalWellness #SobrietyJourney #HealingIsPossible #RecoveryCommunity #MentalHealthMatters ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles continue their discussion with Dr. Kristen Williamson, diving deeper into identity, relationships, work, and what it really means to thrive as a neurodivergent adult in a world that wasn’t built for your brain. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Help Us Bring This Award Home We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast. If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote. Voting is quick and easy: You do not need to sign up for Patreon Once you hit submit, your vote is sent Vote here:https://shorturl.at/mpReA Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time. Mental Health Quote “We’re different, not less — and understanding your brain can turn overwhelm into empowerment.”— Dr. Kristen Williamson Episode Description Part 2 continues the conversation with Dr. Kristen Williamson, moving from awareness into lived experience. This episode explores how neurodivergence shows up across different stages of life — from childhood to adulthood, through parenting, relationships, work, and major transitions like puberty, hormones, and menopause. Dr. Kristen explains how autism and ADHD don’t stay static over time. Instead, they evolve as life demands change. She breaks down why middle school is often when ADHD becomes more visible, how puberty and hormones can disrupt previously effective coping skills, and why adulthood often requires constant recalibration rather than “figuring it out once and for all.” The conversation also dives into friendships, marriage, and communication — including how neurodivergent and neurotypical partners can unintentionally clash over clutter, routines, and expectations. Dr. Kristen shares openly about masking, scripts, and the exhaustion of trying to fit into a world that doesn’t always make space for difference. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles ask thoughtful questions about inclusion, the workplace, gender identity, and how to support neurodivergent people without reducing them to their diagnoses. This episode is honest, funny, validating, and deeply human — a reminder that neurodivergence isn’t something to outgrow or fix, but something to understand, support, and honor. SEO Keywords: Dr. Kristen Williamson, neurospicy, autism and adulthood, ADHD across the lifespan, neurodivergent identity, masking, workplace neurodiversity, sensory overwhelm, relationships and autism, late diagnosis healing, mental health podcast Meet Our Guest — Dr. Kristen Williamson Dr. Kristen Williamson is a licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, speaker, and creator of neurodivergent-affirming resources. Diagnosed later in life with autism and ADHD, she brings lived experience, compassion, and humor into conversations about identity, parenting, relationships, and mental health. Connect with Dr. Kristen:Website: http://www.empowermindsolutionsllc.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573292573273#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowermindsolutionsllc/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwilliamsonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empowerminds.solu?_t=ZT-8uIRNSOAKvW&_r=1 Key Takeaways Neurodivergence changes as life stages, hormones, and responsibilities change. Coping skills may need to be rebuilt multiple times throughout life. Masking can help you survive, but it comes at an emotional cost. Diagnosis explains behavior; it doesn’t excuse harm or remove accountability. Supportive environments unlock extraordinary strengths in neurodivergent people. Actionable Items Reflect on which coping skills no longer work and what might need to change. Practice explaining your needs clearly instead of masking through discomfort. Look for environments — at home or work — where accommodations are normalized.   References Mentioned Neurodiversity in the workplace Sensory regulation and masking Autism and ADHD across the lifespan Neurodivergent-affirming mental health resources   Important Chapters 00:00 – Part 2 welcome and continuing the conversationPicking up where Part 1 left off and expanding the discussion. 04:30 – How autism and ADHD evolve over timeChildhood, puberty, adulthood, and constant change. 09:00 – Hormones, perimenopause, and emotional regulationWhy coping skills sometimes stop working. 14:15 – Masking, scripts, and fitting into social spacesThe exhaustion of wearing a “human skin suit.” 19:00 – Neurodiversity in the workplaceWhy accommodations benefit everyone. 23:00 – Diagnosis versus identityUnderstanding the difference between explanation and limitation. 27:00 – Relationships, clutter, and communicationNavigating neurodivergent–neurotypical partnerships. 30:00 – Advice to a younger selfWhat Dr. Kristen wishes she’d known sooner.   Closing CTA Subscribe, rate, and review.Remember to subscribe for more real conversations around mental health. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#NeurodivergentAdults #AutismAcceptance #ADHDAwareness #LateDiagnosis#NeurodiversityAtWork #MentalHealthMatters #NormalizeMentalHealth#IdentityAndHealing #Neurospicy ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the things you’ve always called “quirks” were actually your brain asking to be understood? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Kristen Williamson to discuss autism, ADHD, parenting neurodivergent kids, and the deep relief of finally feeling seen. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Help Us Bring This Award Home We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast. If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote. Voting is quick and easy: You do not need to sign up for Patreon Once you hit submit, your vote is sent Vote here:https://shorturl.at/mpReA Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time. Mental Health Quote “We’re different, not less — and understanding your brain can turn overwhelm into empowerment.”— Dr. Kristen Williamson Episode Description In Part 1 of this two-part episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles welcome Dr. Kristen Williamson, licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, and proud ringleader of a self-described “neurospicy” family. What begins as a conversation about autism and ADHD quickly turns into a deeply validating discussion about identity, masking, sensory overload, and self-acceptance. Dr. Kristen shares what it was like to be diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life — and how that diagnosis reframed decades of confusion, anxiety, and self-blame. She opens up about parenting a neurodivergent child before fully understanding her own neurodivergence, and why women are so often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Together, the trio talks honestly about sensory overwhelm, everyday burnout, and why “functioning” doesn’t always mean thriving. From food textures and crowds to noise and emotional regulation, this episode gives language to experiences that many people have struggled to explain. This conversation isn’t about labels for the sake of labels. It’s about understanding your nervous system, honoring your needs, and letting go of the belief that you’re broken. Part 1 is about awareness, permission, and the power of finally realizing there’s nothing wrong with you — your brain just works differently. SEO Keywords: Dr. Kristen Williamson, neurospicy, autism, ADHD, neurodivergent adults, late autism diagnosis, women and ADHD, sensory overload, mental health podcast, parenting neurodivergent kids, masking, self-acceptance, emotional wellness Meet Our Guest — Dr. Kristen Williamson Dr. Kristen Williamson is a licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, and speaker specializing in autism, ADHD, and mental health. Diagnosed later in life herself, she blends clinical knowledge, lived experience, and humor to help individuals and families understand their brains and thrive without shame. Connect with Dr. Kristen:Website: http://www.empowermindsolutionsllc.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573292573273#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowermindsolutionsllc/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwilliamsonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empowerminds.solu?_t=ZT-8uIRNSOAKvW&_r=1 Key Takeaways Neurodivergence often presents differently in women and is frequently missed. Late diagnosis can bring relief and grief at the same time. Sensory overwhelm is information, not a personal failure. Masking may help you survive, but understanding helps you heal. Feeling seen can reduce anxiety, burnout, and shame.   Actionable Items Start tracking what overstimulates you, including sounds, textures, crowds, and environments. Build in decompression time after social or sensory-heavy situations. Practice leading with curiosity instead of judgment — especially with yourself.   References Mentioned Neurodivergent-affirming mental health care Sensory regulation strategies Autism and ADHD advocacy concepts   Important Chapters 00:00 – Welcome and why this is a two-part conversationSetting the stage for a deeper discussion on neurodiversity and mental health. 04:30 – Dr. Kristen’s late autism and ADHD diagnosisHow adulthood finally brought clarity to a lifetime of unanswered questions. 09:45 – Autism and ADHD in womenMasking, perfectionism, and why so many women go unnoticed. 15:00 – Sensory overload in everyday lifeNoise, crowds, food textures, and nervous system burnout. 22:30 – Parenting neurodivergent kidsAdvocacy, accommodations, and releasing parental shame. 30:00 – The impact of feeling seenWhy understanding your brain can change everything.   Closing CTA Subscribe, rate, and review.Remember to subscribe for more real conversations around mental health. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#Neurodivergent #Neurospicy #AutismAcceptance #ADHDAwareness #LateDiagnosis#WomenAndADHD #SensoryOverload #ParentingNeurodivergent #NormalizeMentalHealth ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice + Crisis Support This episode includes discussion of sudden cardiac arrest, near-death experiences, suicidal ideation, and mental health crises. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available.Call or text 988 (U.S.) — Suicide & Crisis LifelineOr visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources. What happens to your mind when your heart stops and you come back? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jeff Luther, a father and athlete who survived sudden cardiac arrest, to talk about fear, trauma, resilience, and how rebuilding life sometimes starts in 30-second increments. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You still choose. Even when everything is taken away, you still get to choose.” — Jeff Luther Episode Description Jeff Luther was fit and competitive, training alongside his teenage son, when his heart suddenly stopped. No pulse. No breath. Two shocks from an AED brought him back — but life as he knew it was over. In this raw and deeply human episode, Jeff joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about surviving sudden cardiac arrest, living with trauma, and the mental health fallout no one prepares you for. From the fear of his own body betraying him again, to the shame of pretending to be strong instead of being honest, Jeff opens up about what it really means to rebuild a life after death. This conversation goes beyond survival. Jeff shares what it felt like to truly believe he was dying, why gratitude felt impossible at first, and how resilience didn’t come from pushing harder — but from choosing again and again to stay. Sometimes for a year. Sometimes for a day. Sometimes for just 30 seconds. They also explore how trauma reshapes identity, how children carry invisible fear, and why connection — not toughness — is the real currency of healing. Jeff’s story is a reminder that mental health struggles don’t always come from weakness. Sometimes they come from surviving something that should have ended you. If you’ve ever faced a life-altering event, lived with anxiety after trauma, or wondered how to keep going when fear takes over, this episode will meet you exactly where you are. SEO Keywords: Jeff Luther, sudden cardiac arrest survivor, near-death experience, trauma recovery, mental health podcast, resilience, anxiety after trauma, cardiac arrest recovery, mindset healing, overcoming fear, post-traumatic growth, emotional resilience Meet Our Guest — Jeff Luther Jeff Luther is a speaker, mindset coach, and sudden cardiac arrest survivor who helps people question the stories they tell themselves and rebuild their lives after trauma. After collapsing in front of his teenage son and being clinically dead for eight minutes, Jeff began a journey of resilience, belief work, and intentional living — 30 seconds at a time. Connect with Jeff:Website: https://www.jeffluther.comPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-inspector-alliance/id1658627241Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdluther2.0/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdluther2.0LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-luther/ Key Takeaways Surviving trauma doesn’t automatically bring gratitude — it brings reality. Fear often shows up after the crisis, not during it. You don’t have to rebuild your life all at once; sometimes 30 seconds is enough. Strength without connection can turn into silent suffering. Children notice more than we think, even when we try to protect them. Healing begins when we question the stories we tell ourselves.   Actionable Items When overwhelmed, ask: “What can I handle for the next 30 seconds?” Challenge catastrophic thoughts by asking: “Is that actually true?” Check in with loved ones using open-ended questions and listen without fixing.   References Mentioned 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.orgGlobal Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:03:00 – Jeff’s daily rituals and the guilt of slowing down 00:10:30 – Collapsing at the gym and surviving sudden cardiac arrest 00:18:45 – Fear, bitterness, and losing trust in his own body 00:29:00 – Emotional rock bottom and wanting to quit 00:32:30 – The 30-second decision that changed everything 00:38:00 – Trauma, parenting, and the cost of pretending you’re okay 00:47:00 – Being shocked back to life and facing fear again 00:53:00 – Advice to his younger self and the danger of comparison Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review.Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#SuddenCardiacArrest #TraumaRecovery #NearDeathExperience #ResilienceJourney#AnxietyAfterTrauma #PostTraumaticGrowth #MindsetHealing #SurvivorStories#EmotionalWellness #988Lifeline #YouAreNotAlone ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice + Support This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation, abuse, cancer, and trauma recovery.If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone.In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.For international support, visit: https://findahelpline.com What happens when life tries to break you—and you decide not to let it? In this powerful, unfiltered conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with therapist and survivor Zulma Williams to talk trauma, healing, and why you don’t need to be “fixed” to move forward. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “If you woke up today, your mission in life is not complete.” — Zulma Williams Episode Description Zulma Williams has survived more than most people can imagine—breast cancer, abusive relationships, depression, and suicidal ideation. But she never saw herself as a victim. In this raw, honest episode, Zulma joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share why survival isn’t about toughness—it’s about truth. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Zulma moved to the United States in her 30s, reinvented herself in midlife, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after cancer forced her to stop and reevaluate everything. Along the way, she learned something powerful: trauma doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you adapted. Zulma opens up about emotional and verbal abuse, how subtle control can dismantle your sense of self, and why so many people don’t realize they’re being harmed until they’re already isolated. She also explains why therapy only works when you’re allowed to be fully yourself—swearing included. As a Certified Master ART Practitioner, Zulma talks about trauma recovery, nervous system healing, and why short-term, evidence-based therapies can create real change. This conversation is bold, validating, and deeply human—especially for anyone who feels “too old,” “too damaged,” or “too far gone” to start over. This episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t require perfection. It requires honesty, courage, and the willingness to honor your own internal hero. SEO Keywords: Zulma Williams, trauma recovery, mental health podcast, therapy healing, PTSD support, emotional abuse recovery, anxiety and depression, ART therapy, survivor mindset, suicide prevention, healing trauma, self-worth, resilience, therapy that works Meet Our Guest — Zulma Williams, LCSW, ACSW, CTMH Zulma Williams is the founder of Dragonfly Therapy Services and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma recovery. A breast cancer survivor and Certified Master ART Practitioner, Zulma brings lived experience, direct honesty, and evidence-based care to help clients stop surviving and start healing. Connect with Zulma:Website: https://www.dragonflytherapyservices.net/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DragonflyTSLVInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theswearingtherapistYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theswearingtherapistLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulma-williams-ab7609214/ Key Takeaways Trauma doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you adapted to survive. Emotional and verbal abuse are real, damaging, and often invisible. You’re never “too old” to change your life or start over. Therapy only works when you’re allowed to be your authentic self. Being vulnerable is a strength, not a weakness. You are allowed to choose yourself—even if others don’t like it. Actionable Items If therapy doesn’t feel safe or real, give yourself permission to find a better fit. Ask yourself: “Am I honoring my internal hero—or ignoring them?” Notice where you’re minimizing your pain and name it honestly.   References Mentioned Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:02:00 – Zulma’s immigration journey and starting over 00:10:30 – Going back to school later in life 00:15:00 – Recognizing emotional and verbal abuse 00:22:00 – Therapy, trauma, and reclaiming your voice 00:30:00 – Why authenticity matters in healing 00:37:00 – Self-care, self-love, and choosing yourself 00:40:00 – Zulma’s message to anyone still struggling Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaRecovery #TherapyWorks #PTSDHealing #SurvivorStory #EmotionalAbuseRecovery#AnxietySupport #DepressionAwareness #HealingJourney #InternalHero #ARTTherapy#MentalHealthMatters #Resilience #SelfWorth ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice & Support Reminder This episode includes discussion of suicide, sexual assault, trauma, addiction, and cancer.If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available.Call or text 988 in the U.S. or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources. What if forgiveness wasn’t about letting someone off the hook — but about finally setting yourself free? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Katherine Giovanni to talk about trauma, anger, and how forgiveness can be a deeply personal, life-changing act of self-healing. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Forgiveness isn’t about them. It’s about getting your life — and your peace — back.”— Katherine Giovanni Episode Description Forgiveness gets thrown around a lot — but nobody really teaches us how to do it, or what to do when we don’t want to. In this deeply human and eye-opening episode, Katherine Giovanni joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to flip the script on forgiveness, trauma, and healing. A three-time award-winning author, transformation mentor, and stage 3 breast cancer survivor, Katherine shares her powerful personal journey through childhood trauma, addiction, loss, and survival — and how forgiveness became the tool that helped her reclaim her life. Not as a pass for harmful behavior, but as a boundary-setting, self-preserving act of freedom. Katherine introduces her practical, step-by-step forgiveness process, including her unique approach to forgiving not only people but also the energy around painful memories. Together, the trio explores why forgiveness is selfish (in the best way), why you don’t owe anyone a relationship, and why some things may never be forgivable — and that’s okay. They also dive into forgiving yourself, releasing guilt and shame, and even unpack why our relationship with money often needs forgiveness, too. This conversation is raw, insightful, and unexpectedly empowering — especially for anyone who feels stuck replaying old wounds or carrying anger that’s quietly draining their joy. If you’ve ever said, “I’ll never forgive them,” this episode might just change how you think about healing — and about yourself. Keywords: Katherine Giovanni, forgiveness, emotional healing, trauma recovery, self-forgiveness, mental health podcast, letting go, emotional freedom, healing from abuse, guilt and shame, boundaries, cancer survivor, addiction recovery, forgiveness process Meet Our Guest — Katherine Giovanni Katherine Giovanni is a three-time award-winning best-selling author, speaker, and one of the original founders of the independent concierge industry. A stage 3 breast cancer survivor and transformation mentor, she helps people release guilt, shame, and emotional blocks through forgiveness, intuition, and self-awareness. Connect with Katherine:Website: https://www.katharinegiovanni.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katharine.giovanniInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katharinegiovanniYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0PPtlSUPldGNl9mIRRtAmALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinegiovanni/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kathgiovanniSubstack: https://katharinegiovanni.substack.com/ Key Takeaways Forgiveness is not weakness — it’s a powerful act of self-protection. You can forgive someone without allowing them back into your life. Holding onto anger keeps you stuck in the past; forgiveness restores your freedom. Forgiving the energy around a memory helps stop emotional triggers. Self-forgiveness is often the hardest — and most important — healing step. Healing is a marathon, not a sprint. Actionable Items Write a forgiveness list and start with the easiest people first — not the biggest wounds. Practice forgiving the energy around painful memories, not just the people involved. Check in with your body after forgiveness work and pace yourself gently. References Mentioned The Ultimate Path to Forgiveness by Katherine Giovanni 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:03:00 – Why forgiveness is misunderstood and rarely taught 00:06:30 – The truth about forgiving without reconnecting 00:10:00 – Katherine’s step-by-step forgiveness process 00:14:30 – Forgiving trauma, abuse, and the “unforgivable.” 00:23:00 – Why forgiving yourself is often the hardest part 00:31:00 – Forgiving money and breaking old survival patterns 00:38:30 – Freedom, peace, and reclaiming your life Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#ForgivenessHealing #EmotionalFreedom #TraumaRecovery #SelfForgiveness#LettingGo #HealingJourney #BoundariesMatter #CancerSurvivor#AddictionRecovery #EmotionalWellness #InnerPeace #HealingTools ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when you do everything right, earn the degrees, land the title, and build security, yet still feel empty inside? In this powerful Season 16 opener, G Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Esther Zeldon to talk honestly about burnout, anxiety, people pleasing, and the moment you realize the life you built is slowly eroding your mental health. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “There is no such thing as real safety if you are betraying yourself to keep it.” — Dr. Esther Zeldon Episode Description Burnout does not always come from failure. Sometimes it comes from success. In this raw and deeply human conversation, Dr. Esther Zeldon joins G Rex and Dirty Skittles to unpack what happens when a lifetime of chasing stability, titles, and external validation leads straight to anxiety, depression, and disconnection from purpose. Esther shares her powerful story, from surviving a life-threatening illness as a child, to becoming a high-achieving diplomat and international development professional, to realizing that the “safe” life she built was quietly damaging her mental health. Together, they explore how childhood trauma can disguise itself as ambition, why people pleasing keeps so many of us stuck in toxic jobs, and how fear of failure often hides a deeper fear of finally being honest with ourselves. This episode is not about reckless quitting or overnight success. It is about alignment. It is about learning to say no. It is about recognizing that security is often an illusion, and that true safety comes from knowing you can rebuild, pivot, and survive hard seasons without abandoning who you are. Esther also opens up about anxiety, financial fear, boundaries, and the realities of entrepreneurship, including losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in contracts and choosing purpose anyway. If you are quietly burning out, questioning your career, or feeling guilty for wanting more meaning in your life, this conversation will resonate. Keywords: Esther Zeldon, career burnout, anxiety, mental health, toxic workplace, purpose-driven life, people pleasing, trauma healing, entrepreneurship stress, alignment, emotional wellness, burnout recovery, meaningful work Meet Our Guest, Dr. Esther Zeldon Dr. Esther Zeldon is a coach, best-selling author, social entrepreneur, and former diplomat dedicated to helping people uncover their unique superpower and live purpose-driven lives. With global experience spanning governments, nonprofits, and communities, Esther blends strategy, science, and compassion to help individuals and organizations create sustainable impact without sacrificing mental health. Website: https://beactchange.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beactchange/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be.act.change/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beactchange Key Takeaways Burnout can come from success just as easily as failure. Anxiety often stems from living out of alignment, not weakness. Safety is often a trauma response, not a true motivator. People pleasing keeps you stuck in toxic environments. Saying no is a mental health skill, not a personality flaw. Purpose is not found; it is remembered.   Actionable Items Write down what safety really costs you emotionally. Identify one boundary you need to set this month and honor it. Ask yourself, am I chasing security, or am I chasing alignment?   References Mentioned Purpose-driven coaching and alignment work: https://beactchange.com   Important Chapters 00:02 - Esther’s childhood trauma and how safety became her driving force 06:30 - High achievement, toxic workplaces, and silent burnout 12:45 - Anxiety, depression, and people pleasing patterns 18:00 - Leaving security and facing fear head-on 25:30 - Financial fear, entrepreneurship, and redefining success 33:00 - Boundaries, saying no, and protecting your peace 40:00 - Purpose, joy, and mental health alignment Closing Call to Action Subscribe, rate, and review. Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CareerBurnout #AnxietySupport #PurposeDrivenLife #ToxicWorkplace #EmotionalWellness #BurnoutRecovery #PeoplePleasing #TraumaHealing #MentalHealthMatters #AlignmentOverAchievement #HealingJourney ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Season 15 reminded us why this podcast exists. In this special season ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down as friends — not interviewers — to reflect on the stories, lessons, laughter, and growth that defined the season, and how healing shows up when you keep showing up for each other. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “Healing is easier when you’re not doing it alone — sometimes all it takes is someone willing to sit with you in the mess.” — G-Rex Episode Description This episode is different — and intentional. There are no guests this time. Just G-Rex and Dirty Skittles closing out Season 15 together, reflecting on what they learned, how they grew, and why this podcast has become more than just a show. Throughout the season, we heard stories about anxiety, OCD, PTSD, medical trauma, parenting through crisis, creativity as healing, and learning how to advocate for yourself when life doesn’t play fair. But as we looked back, something else stood out just as clearly — the power of connection, humor, and friendship in the middle of hard seasons. In this season ender, we talk honestly about growth, boundaries, resilience, and the lifelong work of healing. We reflect on how our guests helped us learn, laugh, and sometimes rethink the way we handle our own mental health. This conversation is about choosing hope, staying curious, and reminding ourselves that it’s okay to still be learning. Season 15 comes full circle here — grounded, grateful, and hopeful for what’s next. SEO Keywords: mental health podcast, season recap, healing journey, resilience, trauma recovery, anxiety support, PTSD healing, emotional wellness, self advocacy, hope, therapy tools, mental health awareness Season 15 Episodes, Air Dates & Lessons Learned Melissa — OCD & Anxiety Recovery: Real Tools That Actually HelpAired 12/2/2025Lesson: Intrusive thoughts don’t mean you’re broken — they’re signals you can learn to respond to instead of fear. Virginia — Rising Inch by Inch: Hope, Healing, and Reclaiming Your LifeAired 12/4/2025Lesson: Healing doesn’t require giant leaps; consistent, small steps can rebuild an entire life. Michael — Trauma Without the Pain: The Cortina Method That’s Changing PTSD ForeverAired 12/9/2025Lesson: You don’t have to relive trauma to heal it — effective therapy can reduce pain without re-traumatization. Kelly — Traumatic Brain Injury, Neurofatigue, and the Fight to Feel ‘Normal’ AgainAired 12/11/2025Lesson: Invisible injuries are still real, and listening to your body early can change long-term outcomes. Jenn Robb — Supporting a Child Through Anxiety, Depression, and Suicidal ThoughtsAired 12/16/2025Lesson: Loving someone through a mental health crisis requires fierce advocacy — and caregivers need care too. Adriene Caldwell — Foster Care, Abuse, Suicide Survival, and the Power of HopeAired 12/18/2025Lesson: Even the hardest beginnings don’t define your ending — hope can be learned and reclaimed. Carrie — Mental Health, Trauma, and Healing Through CreativityAired 12/23/2025Lesson: Creativity can be a powerful form of therapy and a way to choose yourself after trauma. Talaya — Cancer, Medical Gaslighting, and Emotional HealingAired 12/30/2025Lesson: Self-advocacy matters — especially when systems fail — and boundaries are part of healing. Susanna Calvert — How to Build Emotional ResilienceAired 1/6/2026Lesson: Emotional resilience is a skill that can be taught, practiced, and strengthened at any age. Amy Koford — Hypnotherapy for Anxiety, Fear, Trauma, and Deep Emotional HealingAired 1/8/2026Lesson: Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all — alternative therapies can work when traditional approaches don’t. Alisa — Trauma Therapy, EMDR, and Healing Without Re-TraumatizationAired 1/13/2026Lesson: Healing can be gentle, intentional, and effective without reopening old wounds. Friendship Reflection As we looked back on Season 15, what stood out most wasn’t just the topics — it was how much we learned together. Every guest taught us something new, challenged how we think, or reminded us that humor, honesty, and connection matter just as much as therapy tools. This season reflected the way G-Rex and Dirty Skittles have grown alongside the show — using laughter to cope, learning from other people’s pain, and supporting each other through real life in real time. Season 15 reinforced that healing doesn’t happen in isolation, and friendship can be one of the strongest tools we have. Key Takeaways Healing isn’t linear — progress still counts. Humor can be a coping tool, not an avoidance tactic. Friendship and connection matter in recovery. Advocacy and boundaries protect mental health. Choosing hope is an ongoing decision. Actionable Items Revisit one episode that resonated and apply one takeaway this week. Use humor or creativity as a grounding tool when things feel heavy. Check in on a friend — healing is easier together. Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#HealingJourney #Resilience #TraumaRecovery #Hope #EmotionalWellness #TherapyWorks #MentalHealthSupport #PodcastCommunity #ChoosingHope #SeasonFinale ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice This episode includes discussions of trauma and past suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised.If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S., or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources. What if healing trauma didn’t require reliving every painful detail? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with trauma therapist Alisa Gracheva to discuss EMDR, self-awareness, and how real healing occurs without retraumatization. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to relive the pain to heal it — you just have to feel safe enough to let it go.”— Alisa Gracheva Episode Description Trauma healing doesn’t have to mean reopening every wound — and in this deeply grounding episode, Alisa Gracheva explains why. Joining G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Alisa shares her journey from surviving early trauma and immigration upheaval to becoming a licensed trauma therapist specializing in EMDR and nervous-system–informed care. Together, they unpack one of the biggest myths about trauma therapy: that you have to relive every painful detail to heal. Alisa explains how trauma lives in the body, not just the mind, and why safety, pacing, and self-awareness matter more than storytelling alone. The conversation weaves through personal healing, therapy, “speed dating,” seasonal depression, grounding practices, and the reality of holding space for others without losing yourself. Alisa also shares the hardest lessons she’s faced — including financial loss, burnout, and learning to ask for help — while offering listeners a compassionate framework for change: self-awareness, willingness, and readiness. From boundaries and daily rituals to art, nature, and spirituality, this episode is a reminder that healing is not a destination — it’s a relationship with yourself. If you’ve ever felt broken by trauma, exhausted by therapy that didn’t fit, or afraid that healing would hurt more than staying the same, this conversation offers hope, clarity, and permission to do it differently. Keywords: Alisa Gracheva, trauma therapy, EMDR, healing trauma, nervous system regulation, mental health podcast, PTSD recovery, self-awareness, grounding techniques, therapy without retraumatization, spiritual healing, emotional wellness Meet Our Guest — Alisa Gracheva Alisa Gracheva is a licensed trauma therapist, EMDR practitioner, and author dedicated to helping people heal without re-traumatization. Blending evidence-based trauma therapy with spiritual awareness, Alisa supports clients in reconnecting with safety, self-trust, and wholeness after trauma. Website: https://since.life/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisa_art/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-gracheva-61081670/Book: Walking with Spirit: A Sacred Path to Wholeness Key Takeaways You don’t have to relive trauma in detail to heal it. Trauma lives in the body — healing must involve the nervous system. Finding the right therapist matters more than sticking with the first one. Self-awareness is the first step toward real change. Boundaries are essential for helpers, healers, and caregivers. Healing is a lifelong relationship, not a finish line.   Actionable Items If therapy hasn’t worked before, give yourself permission to try a different approach. Add one grounding practice to your day (stretching, nature, breathwork, or art). Ask yourself: “What would safety feel like right now?” — and honor that answer.   References Mentioned EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy Man’s Search for Meaning — Viktor Frankl The Myth of Normal — Dr. Gabor Maté 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com   Important Chapters 00:02 – Alisa’s journey into trauma therapy 07:30 – Why reliving trauma isn’t required for healing 12:00 – EMDR and trauma stored in the body 19:00 – Self-awareness, readiness, and willingness to change 28:00 – Grounding, nature, and nervous system regulation 38:00 – Boundaries, burnout, and caregiver self-care 45:00 – Advice to her younger self and hardest life lessons Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaHealing #EMDRTherapy #NervousSystemHealing #PTSDRecovery#TherapyWorks #EmotionalWellness #SpiritualHealing #GroundingPractices#SelfAwareness #HealingJourney #MentalHealthSupport ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice This episode includes discussions of anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is in crisis, you are not alone. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For international resources, visit https://findahelpline.com. What if anxiety wasn’t your enemy—just old programming that needs an update? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Amy Koford, also known as The Happy Hypnotist, to talk about fear, trauma, and how hypnotherapy can help rewire the subconscious mind for lasting emotional healing. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to believe every thought you have—especially the ones rooted in fear.” — Amy Koford   Episode Description Anxiety has a way of convincing us that control equals safety—but what if letting go is where healing actually begins? In this eye-opening episode, Amy Koford, bestselling author, clinical hypnotist, and motivational speaker, joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to break down how hypnotherapy helps people release fear, process trauma, and find real emotional peace. Amy shares her personal journey through depression, postpartum struggles, and life-threatening illness—experiences that shaped her mission to help others heal faster and deeper than traditional talk therapy alone. Together, the trio explores why anxiety often becomes a “security blanket,” how subconscious beliefs shape emotional reactions, and why so many people struggle to quiet their minds at night. This conversation dives into how hypnotherapy works with the subconscious mind to reframe trauma, release stored emotional responses, and replace fear with calm, confidence, and clarity. Amy also explains why sleep improves, anxiety eases, and emotional healing accelerates when the nervous system finally feels safe. If you’ve tried therapy, medication, or coping strategies and still feel stuck, this episode offers a hopeful, practical alternative. It’s a reminder that you’re not broken—you’re responding exactly how a nervous system learns to survive. Sometimes healing doesn’t come from pushing harder. It comes from reprogramming what’s been running quietly in the background all along. SEO Keywords: Amy Koford, hypnotherapy for anxiety, trauma healing, fear and anxiety, subconscious mind, emotional healing, mental health podcast, anxiety relief, hypnosis therapy, healing trauma, sleep anxiety, mindset reprogramming   Meet Our Guest — Amy Koford Amy Koford, known as The Happy Hypnotist, is a bestselling author, clinical hypnotist, motivational speaker, and CEO of Amy Koford. With thousands of one-on-one hypnotherapy sessions completed, Amy helps people overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, fear, insomnia, and self-doubt by reprogramming the subconscious mind. Her mission is to create a world where love wins over fear. Connect with Amy: Website: https://www.amykoford.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amythehappyhypnotist/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.koford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-koford-012637184/ Key Takeaways Anxiety is often learned, which means it can be unlearned. Fear is not protection—it is outdated programming. Hypnotherapy works by addressing subconscious patterns, not just surface thoughts. You do not need to remember trauma for healing to occur. Letting go of control can be the most empowering step toward peace. Actionable Items When anxiety hits, ask yourself: What thought am I believing right now? Practice allowing calm instead of fighting fear; resistance fuels anxiety. Explore alternative healing modalities like hypnotherapy alongside therapy. References Mentioned Hardwired to Rise – Live Fearlessly, Prosperously, and Optimally by Amy Koford 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources: https://findahelpline.com Important Chapters 00:06 – Amy’s journey into hypnotherapy and why traditional therapy wasn’t enough 00:12 – Why control fuels anxiety and how to release it 00:20 – Subconscious vs. conscious mind explained simply 00:29 – Trauma storage, memory blocking, and emotional release 00:37 – Why hypnotherapy improves sleep and calms the nervous system 00:45 – Fear as a “security blanket” and how to let it go 00:52 – Amy’s mission: creating a world where love beats fear Subscribe, Rate, and Review Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #Hypnotherapy #AnxietyRelief #TraumaHealing #EmotionalHealing #SubconsciousMind #FearRecovery #MindsetShift #HealingJourney #MentalWellness #AnxietySupport ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice This episode includes discussion of trauma, mental health challenges, and suicide statistics. If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For global resources, visit: https://findahelpline.com   What better way to kick off 2026 than with a conversation about emotional resilience? In the very first episode of the new year, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Susanna Calvert to talk about healing trauma, reclaiming personal power, and learning the skills most of us were never taught — but desperately need.   Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “Resilience isn’t about being tough or pushing through — it’s about learning how to come home to yourself after life knocks you down.” — Susanna Calvert   Episode Description As the first episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads for 2026, this conversation sets the tone for the year ahead — honest, hopeful, and rooted in real tools for mental health. Resilience is often treated like a personality trait — something you either have or you don’t. But Susanna Calvert is here to dismantle that myth and show why emotional resilience is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened at any stage of life. In this deeply thoughtful episode, Susanna joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how her own experiences with generational trauma, spiritual awakening, and repeated “dark nights of the soul” led her to create the Foundation for Family and Community Healing. Drawing from decades in higher education and well-being research, she explains why grit and “toughing it out” aren’t enough — and how unhealed trauma quietly shapes families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities. The conversation explores why emotional education should be as foundational as reading or math, how kids and adults alike benefit from learning resilience together, and why community-wide healing is the missing piece in today’s mental health crisis. Susanna also introduces the concept of the Hero’s — or “Shiro’s” — Journey, offering a powerful framework for turning crisis into growth and hopelessness into meaning. This episode is a reminder that healing isn’t about fixing what’s broken — it’s about reclaiming your power, learning new skills, and choosing to grow even when life feels overwhelming. If you’re looking for a grounded, hopeful way to start 2026, this conversation is it. Keywords: emotional resilience, mental health healing, trauma recovery, generational trauma, resilience skills, emotional wellness, community healing, childhood trauma, mental health education, personal growth, coping skills, self-healing   Meet Our Guest — Susanna Calvert Dr. Susanna (Sanna) Wu-Pong Calvert, MAPP, PhD is the Founder and Executive Director of the Foundation for Family and Community Healing, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching emotional resilience and well-being as learnable life skills. She is also the Founder of Sanctuary of Earth and the Community Director at MentalHealth.com, blending science, education, and spiritual growth to support healing for individuals and communities worldwide. Connect with Susanna: Website: http://www.HealingEdu.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familyandcommunityhealing/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FamilyandCommunityHealing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanna-wu-pong-calvert-551b616/   Key Takeaways Emotional resilience is a skill — not a personality trait. Unhealed trauma often gets passed down quietly through generations. Grit alone doesn’t heal; awareness and skill-building do. Kids and adults learn resilience best when communities heal together. A crisis can become a doorway to growth when we’re given the right tools.   Actionable Items Notice where you’re “pushing through” instead of checking in with yourself. Practice naming your emotions without judgment — awareness builds resilience. Seek out skill-based mental health resources, not just motivation or inspiration.   References Mentioned Foundation for Family and Community Healing — http://www.HealingEdu.org 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com   Important Chapters 00:01 – Why resilience must be taught, not assumed 06:40 – Generational trauma and the limits of “being tough” 14:30 – Why schools and workplaces miss emotional education 23:45 – The Hero’s (Shiro’s) Journey as a healing roadmap 31:10 – Social media, overwhelm, and reclaiming personal power 37:45 – Hope, healing, and building a better future together   Subscribe, Rate, and Review! As we step into a new year, we’re grateful you’re here — choosing healing, growth, and real conversations with us. Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories, rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews   #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #EmotionalResilience #TraumaHealing #GenerationalHealing #CommunityWellbeing #MentalHealthEducation #HealingJourney #ResilienceSkills #HopeFor2026 ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when your body knows something is wrong, but the system refuses to listen? In this robust conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with cancer thriver and advocate Talaya Dendy to talk about medical gaslighting, emotional survival, and what it takes to fight for your life, literally and emotionally. This is our final episode of 2025, and we are closing the year with a reminder that you deserve to be heard. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “Those gaps in the system are the problem, you’re not.” — Talaya Dendy   Episode Description Being told “it’s probably nothing” nearly cost Talaya Dendy her life. In this candid, emotionally grounded episode, Talaya joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share what it was like to be dismissed by a doctor, diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma a year later, and then left alone with the news on a Friday afternoon. What followed was not only a fight against cancer, but a battle against medical gaslighting, isolation, and a healthcare system that too often forgets the person behind the chart. Talaya opens up about navigating cancer in her early 30s, enduring months of chemotherapy and radiation, and managing the stress of a new workplace while trying to protect her insurance and privacy. She also shares the heartbreak of learning who shows up and who disappears when your life is upended, and how boundaries become survival tools, not “nice-to-haves.” Along the way, Talaya explains how journaling, mindset work, faith, and self-advocacy helped her stay grounded when support systems fell short. That lived experience ultimately became her purpose: serving others as a cancer doula and board-certified patient advocate, helping people ask better questions, get better care, and feel less alone. As we close out our last show of 2025, this episode is a powerful reminder as we enter the new year: you are not a burden, you are not “too much,” and you have every right to demand care that is competent and compassionate. Keywords: Talaya Dendy, cancer thriver, medical gaslighting, emotional healing, cancer trauma, self-advocacy, patient advocacy, cancer support, mental health podcast, emotional wellness, boundaries, healthcare trauma, survivorship, healing journey   Meet Our Guest — Talaya Dendy Talaya Dendy is a cancer thriver, Cancer Doula, Board-Certified Patient Advocate, Health & Wellness Coach, and host of the Navigating Cancer TOGETHER podcast. After surviving Hodgkin’s lymphoma, she dedicated her work to filling the emotional and advocacy gaps in cancer care. Hence, patients and families feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout the journey. Website: https://www.ontheotherside.life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ontheotherside17/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/NCTpodcastfan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talayadendy/   Key Takeaways Medical gaslighting is real, and trusting your body can save your life. You have the right to ask questions, seek second opinions, and walk away. Cancer impacts mental health just as much as it affects the body. Not everyone will show up, and that clarity can change your life. Advocacy is a skill that can be learned, even in survival mode.   Actionable Items Write down symptoms and concerns before appointments, and bring them with you. Practice one boundary this week that protects your health or energy. Ask yourself: “Do I feel heard here?” If not, consider another provider or a second opinion.   References Mentioned Journaling as a therapeutic practice Patient self-advocacy in healthcare   Important Chapters 00:01 — Talaya’s lump is dismissed, and the path to diagnosis begins 05:00 — Getting the diagnosis by phone and feeling abandoned 12:30 — Learning self-advocacy and reframing “doctor knows best.” 18:00 — Isolation in treatment spaces and rejecting negativity 27:30 — Work, disability leave, insurance stress, and lack of empathy 39:00 — Leaving corporate and becoming a cancer doula and advocate 45:40 — Advice to her younger self and reclaiming worth 50:45 — Favorite word: Thriver; least favorite word: Authenticity Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review. Thank you for being part of our 2025. This is our last episode of the year, and we will be back with a new episode on 1/6/26. Leave a review or visit: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews   #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CancerThriver #MedicalGaslighting #CancerSupport #PatientAdvocacy #EmotionalHealing #HealthcareTrauma #HealingJourney #CancerSurvivorship #BoundariesMatter #AdvocateForYourself #LifeAfterCancer ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the thing that saved your mental health wasn’t therapy alone—but your hands, your creativity, and your ability to choose differently? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Carrie to discuss trauma, abandonment, people-pleasing, and how creativity became her lifeline amid chaos. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3 million downloads and counting.   We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Listener Feedback We would love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “You can visit devastation, but you can’t live there.” — Carrie Episode Description Carrie’s mental health journey didn’t begin in adulthood—it started in childhood, shaped by sudden moves, family instability, abandonment, and the quiet expectation to “be okay” no matter what. In this deeply honest episode, Carrie joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how creativity became her survival tool when life felt completely out of control. From waking up to moving trucks without warning to becoming a parentified child at twelve, Carrie learned early how chaos can wire the nervous system. Rather than numbing out or self-destructing in obvious ways, she chose a more socially accepted—but equally damaging—path: people-pleasing, over-functioning, and carrying everyone else’s emotional weight. Through art, crafting, and intentional use of her hands, Carrie discovered a way to temporarily shut off trauma, regulate her nervous system, and reclaim a sense of power. This episode explores how creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s a form of mental health care. Carrie also opens up about breaking generational trauma, setting boundaries with family, redefining self-care, and teaching her children emotional agency instead of emotional suppression. This conversation is raw, validating, and deeply human. If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety, trauma, abandonment wounds, or the pressure to be “the strong one,” this episode will remind you that healing doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be intentional. Keywords: Carrie, mental health, trauma healing, creativity and mental health, childhood trauma, abandonment issues, people-pleasing, anxiety coping skills, generational trauma, boundaries, self-care, emotional regulation, creative healing Meet Our Guest Carrie is a creative mother and lifelong advocate for using hands-on creativity to support mental health and emotional regulation. Shaped by childhood trauma, family instability, and abandonment, she learned to transform chaos into meaning through art, crafting, and intentional self-reflection. Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is often built—not found. Key Takeaways Creativity can regulate the nervous system and quiet trauma responses. People-pleasing is a socially accepted form of self-abandonment. You can choose healing—even if you have to choose it daily. Boundaries protect mental health, even when they disappoint others. Trauma doesn’t disappear, but it can lose control over your life.   Actionable Items Find a “busy hands” activity that helps calm your mind (drawing, knitting, baking, crafting). Give yourself permission to feel devastation—then set a limit on how long you stay there. Ask yourself daily: Am I choosing myself or abandoning myself?   References Mentioned Between Two Worlds (book on the impact of divorce on children)   Important Chapters 00:04:20 – Waking up to a moving truck and the roots of abandonment 00:10:30 – How creativity helps turn off trauma 00:17:10 – People-pleasing as a hidden destructive coping skill 00:18:30 – “You can visit devastation, but you can’t live there.” 00:23:40 – Breaking generational trauma and setting boundaries 00:36:40 – Advice Carrie would give her younger self 00:38:10 – Self-love, anger, and permission to take up space Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #TraumaHealing #CreativeHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #AnxietySupport #PeoplePleasingRecovery #GenerationalTrauma #BoundariesMatter #EmotionalWellbeing #SelfCareTools #HealingJourney #MentalHealthMatters ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode contains explicit discussion of severe trauma, including emotional and physical abuse, childhood sexual assault, foster care abuse, extreme poverty, mental illness, eating disorders, homelessness, death, and suicide attempts. Adriene herself urges listeners to proceed with caution. Please prioritize your well-being and pause or skip this episode if needed. If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available: United States and Canada: Call or text 988, Suicide and Crisis Lifeline International resources: https://findahelpline.com You matter. You are not alone. From foster care and extreme poverty to abuse, homelessness, and surviving suicide attempts, Adriene Caldwell has lived through more trauma than most people can imagine. In this raw, unfiltered, and deeply human conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Adriene, author of Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, to talk about what it means to survive when the odds are stacked against you, and how hope can still take root in the most unforgiving places. Adriene shares the reality of growing up in systems that failed her, the teachers who quite literally saved her life, and the truth behind the statistic that fewer than 3 percent of former foster youth ever attend college. This is not a story wrapped in platitudes or false positivity. It is honest, heavy, and courageous. It is about staying when leaving felt easier, and choosing to believe that life could be different, even when there was no proof. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words.   Listener Feedback We would love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a   Mental Health Quote “I have done more than survive. I have thrived. Hope is the reason I am still here.” — Adriene Caldwell Episode Description Adriene Caldwell’s story is not easy to hear, but it is necessary. In this deeply honest conversation, Adriene joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share what it means to grow up in extreme poverty, endure horrific abuse, survive foster care, and attempt suicide, yet still choose to stay. From childhood trauma and an untreated mentally ill parent to homelessness and abusive foster placements, Adriene’s life was shaped by systems that failed her again and again. School became her refuge. Education became her way out. And hope, quiet, stubborn, and hard won, became her anchor. Adriene also opens up about the teachers who risked everything to protect her, the reality that fewer than 3 percent of foster youth ever attend college, and why emotional abuse can leave deeper scars than physical violence. She shares what finally led her to write her memoir, Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, and how revisiting her trauma forced healing she never expected. This episode is raw, heavy, and deeply human. It is also a reminder that your current chapter is not your final one. If you have ever felt trapped by your past or unsure whether staying is worth it, Adriene’s story offers proof that hope can survive even the cruelest circumstances.   Meet Our Guest — Adriene Caldwell Adriene Caldwell is the author of Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines, a memoir documenting her journey through foster care, extreme poverty, abuse, mental illness, and suicide survival. A former foster youth who defied overwhelming odds, Adriene uses her story to offer real, grounded hope that trauma can end and life can improve. Connect with Adriene: Website: https://www.unbrokencaldwell.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575765845419&sk=professional_dashboard X: https://www.twitter.com/@unbrokencaldwell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@unbrokencaldwell TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/unbrokencaldwel Key Takeaways Emotional abuse is real abuse, and its impact can last for decades. Foster care outcomes are not predetermined, but the odds are unfairly stacked against them. Education can be a lifeline when everything else feels unsafe. Survival does not mean you are broken. It means you adapted. Hope does not erase trauma, but it helps you outlive it.   Actionable Items If you feel overwhelmed, choose one small decision today that supports your future self. Learn your local and national crisis resources before you need them. If it feels safe, write your story, even if no one else ever reads it.   References Mentioned Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines by Adriene Caldwell https://988lifeline.org/ https://findahelpline.com   Important Chapters 00:02:00 — What being unbroken really means 00:08:00 — Losing safety and losing childhood 00:15:00 — Poverty, homelessness, and survival 00:22:00 — Teachers who changed everything 00:35:00 — Suicide attempts and choosing to stay 00:44:00 — Writing the book and reopening old wounds 00:50:00 — Hope as a radical act   Closing Call to Action Subscribe, Rate, and Review. Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #FosterCareAwareness #TraumaSurvivor #SuicidePrevention #HopeAfterTrauma #ChildhoodAbuseRecovery #CPTSD #ResilienceStory #HealingJourney #SurvivorVoices #MentalHealthMatters ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trigger Notice This episode contains discussions of child mental health, self-harm, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, and mental health crises involving minors. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone.In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.If you’re outside the U.S., visit https://findahelpline.com to find resources in your country. When Jenn Robb’s daughter was just 12 years old, subtle changes turned into terrifying realities—crippling anxiety, depression, self-harm, and a moment that nearly took her child’s life. What followed wasn’t a clean, linear healing journey, but a relentless fight fueled by intuition, love, and a mother’s refusal to give up. In this raw and deeply human episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jenn to talk about what it truly means to parent through a child’s mental health crisis—and how survival sometimes comes before understanding. Kicking off this robust conversation, Jenn discusses the warning signs many parents miss, the unbearable tension between protecting your child and not pushing them away, and the hard decisions no parent ever expects to make. From navigating therapy and medication to learning when to speak—and when to remain silent—this episode offers honesty, clarity, and hope for parents walking similar paths. If you’ve ever felt afraid, overwhelmed, or unsure how to help your child without losing yourself, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.   Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback Link We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You’re allowed to feel what you feel—but you don’t get to stay stuck there.”— Jenn Robb Episode Description What do you do when your child is hurting—and won’t tell you why? For Jenn Robb, nurse practitioner, author, and Warrior Mom coach, that question became her reality when her daughter began struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-harm at just 12 years old. In this profoundly moving episode, Jenn joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share what it looks like to fight for your child’s life while learning how to respond instead of react. Jenn walks us through the warning signs parents often second-guess, the importance of trusting your intuition, and why finding the right therapist can take time—and persistence. She speaks candidly about advocacy within the mental health system, pushing back against overmedication, and why “fixing it” isn’t always the goal. Sometimes, love looks like restraint. Sometimes, it’s a code word and a piece of cake instead of questions. This conversation also highlights the caregiver’s experience—the burnout, the guilt, the loss of identity, and the slow realization that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Jenn shares practical tools for parents in the trenches, reminders that perfection isn’t required, and proof that healing is possible—even after unimaginable fear. This episode is for parents, caregivers, and anyone who loves a child navigating mental health challenges. You are not failing. You are not alone. And you are stronger than you think. SEO Keywords: Jenn Robb, child mental health, parenting anxiety, childhood depression, suicidal thoughts in kids, self-harm awareness, parenting through crisis, caregiver burnout, mental health advocacy, therapy for teens, suicide prevention, Warrior Mom Meet Our Guest — Jenn Robb Jenn Robb is a nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in functional and integrative medicine, author of Warrior Mom Rising, and founder of Warrior Mom Coaching. Through faith, practical tools, and unapologetic honesty, Jenn helps moms move from burnout to clarity, confidence, and hope while advocating for their children’s mental health. Website: https://warriormomcoach.net/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriormom_jennrobbFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15ue2hq9PL/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-robb-msn-aprn-acnp-c-fim-p-fmp-c-346992106 Key Takeaways Trust your intuition—you often notice changes before your child can explain them. Advocacy sometimes means pushing back against “quick fixes.” The right therapist matters more than the first available one. Love doesn’t always look loud; sometimes it’s a quiet presence. Caregivers need care too—burnout helps no one. Healing isn’t linear, but it is possible. Actionable Items Create a code word with your child to signal “I need support, not questions.” If therapy isn’t helping, give yourself permission to find a better fit. Take 10 minutes a day to do something that restores you—no guilt required. Important Chapters 00:02:30 – Early warning signs parents often dismiss 00:09:45 – Discovering self-harm and navigating fear 00:17:30 – The moment everything changed 00:25:10 – Advocacy, therapy, and medication conversations 00:34:40 – Supporting without pushing 00:41:20 – Caregiver burnout and self-care realities 00:48:00 – Warrior Mom tools for everyday survival Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more real conversations around mental health. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ChildMentalHealth #ParentingThroughCrisis #SuicidePrevention #SelfHarmAwareness #CaregiverSupport #TeenMentalHealth #WarriorMom #AnxietyInKids #DepressionAwareness ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After a car crash left her with a traumatic brain injury, Kelly spent months believing she was “fine” — until neurofatigue, memory lapses, and frightening moments behind the wheel told a different story. In this emotional and eye-opening episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Kelly to talk about the invisible aftermath of TBI, the terror of feeling unlike yourself, and the long, patient fight to find your way back. Kicking off this powerful conversation, Kelly shares how she hid her brain injury for years, what neurofatigue actually feels like, and how therapy, mindfulness, and sheer determination helped her rebuild a life she thought she had lost. If you’ve ever felt “not yourself,” overwhelmed, or misunderstood in your healing process, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and hope. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You’re not ‘crazy’ — your brain is hurt, and hurt things need care before they can function again.” — Kelly Tuttle Episode Description When Kelly’s car accident in 2015 left her concussed, she did what so many of us do — she tried to push through it. What she didn’t know was that she was living with a traumatic brain injury that would slowly dismantle her energy, her clarity, and her sense of self. Months later, after falling asleep at the wheel, mixing up words, and feeling wildly unlike herself, Kelly finally learned the truth: her brain was fighting for its life, and she needed help. In this powerful episode, Kelly joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about neurofatigue, the fear of feeling “broken,” and the devastating impact of invisible injuries. She shares how she hid her disability for years, the therapies that actually helped, and the moment she realized she needed to tell her story so other survivors wouldn’t feel alone. From martial arts to mindfulness, from toast-and-coffee mishaps to rebuilding her identity one baby step at a time, Kelly’s journey is a reminder that recovery isn’t linear — and it isn’t fast. But it is possible. Whether you’re healing from a brain injury, dealing with cognitive overwhelm, or trying to understand a loved one’s struggles, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and hope to a conversation that desperately needs it. Keywords: traumatic brain injury, neurofatigue, concussion recovery, brain health, TBI survivor, cognitive fatigue, mindfulness for healing, speech therapy, brain injury support, invisible disabilities, Kelly Tuttle, mental health recovery, neuro rehabilitation, post-concussion symptoms Meet Our Guest — Kelly Tuttle Kelly Tuttle is a neurology nurse practitioner, TBI survivor, and author dedicated to helping people navigate the hidden challenges of life after brain injury. Through her book After the Crash and her online community, she offers practical tools, hope, and validation to those struggling to return to work, school, and daily routines. Kelly also brings decades of martial arts experience, a wicked sense of humor, and a deep passion for brain-loving habits to her advocacy. Website: https://kellytuttle.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brain_np_/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-tuttle-72589810/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084306369863TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brainlovingnp Key Takeaways Neurofatigue is real, disabling, and often misunderstood — and it can shut the brain down without warning. You’re not “fine” just because you look functional; invisible injuries still deserve care. A brain injury can change your identity, but it can also uncover deeper compassion and clarity. Recovery takes years, not weeks — and every tiny step forward counts. You cannot heal alone. The right people, tools, and structure make a world of difference. Actionable Items Treat your energy like currency—budget it intentionally and stop before you run out. Use external supports like timers, journaling, and visual cues to reduce cognitive load. Advocate for yourself: accommodations aren’t a weakness; they’re a matter of survival and sustainability. References Mentioned After the Crash by Kelly Tuttle Neurotherapy and speech therapy for cognitive rehabilitation Behavioral optometry for vision-related TBI symptoms Mindfulness and adult coloring as grounding practices Important Chapters 00:01:17 – The crash that changed everything 00:02:58 – Falling asleep at the wheel: the wake-up call 00:06:00 – What neurofatigue really feels like 00:11:17 – Losing martial arts skills and realizing “I’m not okay.” 00:13:43 – How her family carried her through the darkest moments 00:16:02 – Sound sensitivity, vision issues, and therapies that helped 00:18:34 – Meeting the “new me” after brain injury 00:23:30 – Writing After the Crash to help other survivors 00:24:35 – Finding joy again through small, intentional moments 00:38:45 – From forgetting toast to writing a book 00:41:48 – Kelly’s best advice: “Don’t do it alone.” 00:42:33 – Theme songs, favorite words, and the power of humor Subscribe, Rate, and Review!Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaticBrainInjury #Neurofatigue #BrainInjurySurvivor #ConcussionRecovery#InvisibleDisability #BrainHealth #HealingJourney #NeuroRehab #MindfulnessPractice#CognitiveFatigue #BrainInjurySupport #KellyTuttle #AfterTheCrash ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/)Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.