The Survivors Podcast

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary Season Five of The Survivors took us into some of the hardest, most honest conversations we’ve had yet. Across 14 episodes, we talked about what happens after someone says “I’m fine.” We explored how our identities change after life changes us, what it means to live with suicide loss, grief as it’s actually happening, Pride and LGBTQ+ experiences, menopause and mental health, family estrangement, inpatient psychiatric care, surviving domestic abuse, surviving carbon monoxide poisoning, and the conversations that can help connect someone who’s struggling with the support they need. But more than anything, this season was about what it means to survive. We heard from people who’ve lived through experiences they never expected to face—and who were willing to talk openly about what happened, what helped, what didn’t, and what life looks like on the other side. Their stories reminded us that resilience doesn’t always look like strength. Sometimes it looks like asking for help. Setting a boundary. Leaving. Staying. Starting over. Telling the truth. Or simply getting through the next day. In this Season Five wrap-up, we revisit some of the guests and conversations that stayed with us, the lessons they shared, and the practical takeaways we can all use when we’re struggling—or when someone we care about is. And we celebrate something pretty incredible: The Survivors is now being heard in all 50 states and more than 90 countries. What started as a place for honest conversations has become a growing community of people around the world who understand one simple truth: We’re all surviving something. To every guest who trusted us with their story and every listener who listened, shared an episode, reached out, or came back week after week—thank you for being part of Season Five. And we’re not slowing down. Season Six starts next week, with more real stories, honest conversations, practical resources, and people willing to talk about the things we don’t talk about nearly enough. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for immediate support, and visit TheHelpHUB.co for trauma-informed resources, tools, and support.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways The lie of being 'fine' and the importance of honesty Dealing with the realization of not being who you used to be The impact of grief and the loneliness it brings Surviving estrangement and toxic relationships The journey of coming out and embracing pride Experiences with menopause and hormonal changes The power of seeking help through inpatient hospitalization Escaping abusive relationships and advocating for change Losing loved ones to suicide and honoring their memory Building resilience through life's hardest challenges   Chapters 00:00 - Season 5 Recap and Highlights 02:04 - The Lie We Tell Ourselves: 'I'm Fine' 04:54 - Realizing You're Not Who You Used to Be 13:52 - The Loneliness of Grief and Loss 21:57 - Estrangement and Setting Boundaries 30:00 - Losing a Spouse to Suicide: Resilience and Hope 37:07 - Surviving and Escaping Abuse 43:51 - The Power of Honest Conversations 46:55 - Season 6 Preview and Gratitude   Mental Health Resources If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/   Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In the final regular episode of Season Five of The Survivors, we’re talking about what happens after someone says, “I’m fine.” Because when you have a feeling they’re not fine, the most important part of the conversation may be what comes next. How do you move beyond “I’m fine” and create enough space for someone to tell you what’s really going on? What do you ask? What do you listen for? And if you’re worried that someone may be thinking about suicide or self-harm, how do you ask the question directly? In this episode, we walk through the conversation that could save a life—from noticing subtle signals and asking better follow-up questions to using clear, direct language about suicide. We talk about what to say if someone tells you they’re struggling, how to listen without judgment or immediately trying to fix the problem, and how to stay present when the conversation gets uncomfortable. And we talk about what happens after that conversation, because checking in once isn’t enough. We share practical ways to keep showing up: set a specific time to check in again, follow through when you say you will, stay connected after a crisis, and remind someone through your actions that they don’t have to carry what they’re going through alone. You don’t need to be a therapist or a crisis counselor to have a meaningful conversation with someone you’re worried about. You just need to be willing to ask another question, listen to the answer, and stay. We also share resources, including 988 and The HelpHUB™, where you can find additional crisis resources, tools, and guidance. Because sometimes the conversation that matters most begins after “I’m fine.”   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Key Topics Recognizing signs someone is struggling Effective ways to ask about mental health The role of follow-up after initial support How to support someone at risk of suicide Resources available for mental health support The impact of showing genuine concern The importance of not overstepping boundaries How to read between the lines in conversations The significance of persistent support Personal stories of overcoming mental health crises Takeaways Asking 'Are you thinking about harming yourself?' does not plant the idea but validates pain. Consistent follow-up can be life-saving, especially after crisis moments. Showing up and listening without judgment is crucial. People often mask their pain; trust your gut and look for subtle signs. Support should be ongoing, not just a one-time check-in.   Mental Health Resources If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide and may be triggering.   Episode Summary After losing her husband Sean to suicide, Reshma Kearney found herself navigating unimaginable grief while helping her children make sense of a loss that changed everything. In this episode of The Survivors, Reshma shares Sean's story, the mental health struggles he faced, and the lasting impact his death has had on their family. She opens up about the difficult conversations she had with her children, why honesty and age-appropriate transparency mattered, and how vulnerability became an important part of their healing. Together, we explore the unique challenges of suicide loss, the urgent need for more open conversations about men's mental health—especially within the military—and the importance of creating communities where people feel safe asking for help. Reshma also shares how she's transforming her grief into purpose through advocacy, building supportive spaces for suicide loss survivors, and developing new resources for solo moms and children living with profound loss. This is a conversation about heartbreak, resilience, hope, and the courage to keep moving forward—even after life changes forever.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways Reshma emphasizes the importance of discussing how loved ones lived, not just how they died. The conversation highlights the challenges of recognizing mental health struggles in high-functioning individuals. The stigma surrounding mental health in the military can prevent people from seeking help. The importance of open communication about mental health within families is stressed. Reshma's experience shows the complexities of grief and the different ways children cope with loss. The conversation underscores the need for societal change regarding mental health discussions and that navigating grief with children requires honesty and transparency. Vulnerability can lead to powerful healing experiences. Finding small bits of joy is essential in the grieving process. Community support is crucial for those dealing with loss. Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone. Grief is a unique journey for everyone, even within the same family. Mindfulness practices can aid in emotional healing. Creating safe spaces for grief discussions fosters healing. It's important to educate others about grief to prevent unintentional harm. Hope and healing are possible, even after profound loss.   Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Raish McCarney's Story 05:36 - The Life and Legacy of Sean 10:06 - The Circumstances of Sean's Passing 16:01 - Understanding Mental Health in the Military 22:19 - Navigating Grief with Children 30:08 - The Power of Vulnerability in Healing 33:27 - Finding Joy Amidst Grief 39:13 - The Journey of Healing and Advocacy 43:36 - Creating Community and Support 46:13 - Future Endeavors and Resources   Mental Health Resources If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ Connect with Reshma Kearney Website: www.reshmakearney.com Instagram: @reshmakearney Email: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa and Natasha delve into the complexities of mental health, exploring themes of isolation, vulnerability, and the importance of communication. Natasha shares her real-time struggle with depression and self-isolation, emphasizing the need for open dialogue about mental health challenges. The episode highlights the significance of building a support system, seeking therapy, and embracing imperfection in the journey of healing. Through their candid and emotional exchange, they encourage listeners to express their feelings and seek help, fostering a sense of community and understanding. This is a raw one.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways It's okay to not be okay. Self-isolation can exacerbate feelings of depression. Talking about mental health is crucial. Vulnerability can lead to healing. Finding joy amidst struggles is important. Building a support system is essential. Therapy can provide necessary tools for coping. It's okay to ask for help. Embracing imperfection is part of the journey. Community support can make a difference.   Chapters 00:00 Navigating Emotional Turmoil 03:03 The Weight of Isolation 05:45 Understanding Triggers and Stressors 08:31 The Importance of Communication 11:34 Coping with External Pressures 14:34 The Power of Vulnerability 16:20 Finding Joy Amidst Struggles 18:55 Building a Support System 21:54 Creating a Safety Plan 24:26 The Journey to Self-Compassion 26:47 The Role of Therapy 29:23 Embracing Imperfection 32:14 The Power of Speaking Out 35:29 Finding Light in Darkness 38:06 Next Steps for Healing 41:13 A Community of Support   Mental Health Resources If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.  

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In this conversation, Lisa and Natasha explore the complexities of compound grief and the layers of trauma that we all face in today's world. They discuss the importance of acknowledging personal and collective grief, the impact of external stressors, and the necessity of setting boundaries for self-care. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of community support and the need for open conversations about mental health, ultimately highlighting the journey of healing and hope amidst overwhelming challenges.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways Compound grief is a layered experience that can feel overwhelming. Disassociation and brain fog are common responses to trauma. It's important to acknowledge the collective stress affecting everyone. Setting boundaries is essential for self-preservation and mental health. Finding grounding techniques can help navigate overwhelming emotions. Engaging with supportive communities can foster healing. It's okay to take a step back from consuming news and information. Prioritizing grief can be challenging but necessary for healing. Emotional release, such as crying, can be therapeutic. Hope and connection are vital for moving forward in difficult times.   Chapters 00:00 Navigating Heavy Conversations 03:01 Collective Grief and Emotional Exhaustion 05:58 The Impact of Political and Social Divisions 08:51 Personal Boundaries and Self-Preservation 11:59 Finding Balance in Information Consumption 14:53 Raising Empathetic Children 18:03 The Role of Community and Activism 20:46 Understanding Different Perspectives 23:52 The Importance of Emotional Safety 26:34 Hope for Humanity's Resilience 39:21 S4 E2 Compound Grief Mental Health Resources If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.