Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Bleav
  • 4.3 (92)
  • Mental Health
  • Semiweekly

”Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads” is a podcast that emerged from G-Rex’s personal mental health journey, starting with a breakdown in 2022. Supported by her wife, 988, and a higher power, G-Rex found healing and vowed to destigmatize mental health struggles. With best friend Dirty Skittles, the podcast tackles life’s challenges with humor and honesty, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue. Listeners join their engaging discussions on relationships, parenting, pop culture, and mental health, gaining practical tips and a sense of community. Through laughter and camaraderie, the podcast offers empowerment and solidarity, reminding everyone that it’s okay not to be okay and encouraging reaching out for support. Ultimately, ”Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads” is a beacon of hope, humor, and companionship, advocating for mental health awareness and inclusivity.

  1. 2d ago

    Tsvety Roo: Healing Through Solo Travel and Finding Yourself Again

    What happens when you’ve done everything society says you should, but still feel completely lost? In this episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Tsvety Roo to talk about emotional healing, overcoming fear, and how one six-hour walk led to a life-changing solo travel journey that helped her rediscover confidence, purpose, and the courage to live on her own terms. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “What if I gave myself permission to go after it?” — Tsvety Roo Episode Description Imagine living in one of America's sunniest cities and still feeling completely lost. That was Tsvety Roo’s reality in San Diego after a career layoff, years of following the “checklist life,” and the growing belief that she was somehow falling behind. She had checked all the boxes—college, career, bigger opportunities—but happiness wasn't showing up just because she did everything “right.” Then came a six-hour walk. Tsvety cried, questioned what actually made her feel alive, and asked herself something powerful: What if she gave herself permission to pursue it? Nine months later, she sold her car, stored her belongings, and booked a one-way ticket to Málaga, Spain. What she thought would be a three-month adventure became three and a half years of predominantly solo travel. With G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Tsvety gets real about loneliness, self-worth, fear, and the pressure to hit life's milestones on someone else's timeline. She shares how meeting new people and experiencing different cultures helped her reconnect with herself—and how those small acts of courage eventually gave her the confidence to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, a dream she'd carried since age 12. She also shares lessons from her photobook, 21 Small Acts: Lessons in Living Boldly from Around the World, including how a candle shop in Finland changed her understanding of home. You'll hear practical ideas for starting small: take yourself to lunch, try a weekend trip, connect with new people, and challenge the beliefs holding you back. Because finding yourself again doesn't require a passport. Sometimes it starts with one brave question and the courage to listen to your own answer. Keywords: Tsvety Roo, healing through solo travel, mental health and travel, finding yourself again, self-discovery journey, overcoming fear, building self-confidence, emotional healing, loneliness versus solitude, redefining success, personal growth, women traveling solo, overcoming societal expectations, 21 Small Acts, intentional living Meet Our Guest — Tsvety Roo Tsvety Roo is a speaker, visual storyteller, designer, photographer, and creator of 21 Small Acts: Lessons in Living Boldly from Around the World. After three and a half years of mostly solo travel and visits to 46 countries, she has transformed her experiences with loneliness, fear, and self-doubt into powerful lessons about courage, connection, and personal growth. Through photography, storytelling, speaking, and her book, she encourages others to question limiting beliefs, redefine success, and discover how small, intentional actions can create meaningful change. Connect with Tsvety: Website: https://www.21smallacts.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsvetyroo/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tsvety.roo/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TsvetyRoo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsvetyroo/ Key Takeaways You can do everything “right” and still feel lost. Tsvety discovered that career success, financial goals, and following society’s checklist couldn't replace a genuine sense of purpose and connection with herself. Loneliness and solitude aren't the same thing. Feeling isolated in San Diego taught Tsvety that being surrounded by people doesn't guarantee connection. Solo travel helped her discover the difference between feeling alone and becoming comfortable with herself. Confidence grows through small acts of courage. From booking her first one-way ticket to eventually climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Tsvety learned that taking action despite fear helped her recognize abilities she'd underestimated for years. You're not behind in life because your timeline looks different. Whether you're 22, 39, or 62, there's no single right age to travel, change direction, pursue a dream, or redefine success. Home can be a feeling, not just an address. An emotional moment in a candle shop in Finland taught Tsvety that belonging can come from rituals, meaningful relationships, and the communities we build wherever life takes us. Healing doesn't require changing your entire life overnight. Tsvety's transformation began with a six-hour walk and honest self-reflection, proving that even the biggest personal changes can start with one intentional step. Actionable Items Take yourself on a small solo adventure. Start with lunch, a movie, or a day trip by yourself. Notice what feels uncomfortable, what feels freeing, and what you learn about your own company before considering bigger adventures. Challenge the “shoulds” in your life. Think about one expectation you've been carrying around your career, relationships, age, or personal milestones. Ask yourself whether it's something you genuinely want or something you've been taught you're supposed to achieve. Create your own sense-of-home ritual. Borrow inspiration from Tsvety's candle tradition. Choose a small, meaningful object or routine that helps you feel grounded and connected, especially during periods of uncertainty or transition. Important Chapters 00:02:32 — The Childhood Dream of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 00:07:24 — Reaching the Summit and Experiencing Every Emotion 00:11:08 — Emotional Disconnection and the Beginning of Tsvety's Healing Journey 00:12:52 — The Six-Hour Walk That Changed Everything 00:15:35 — Breaking Free From the Checklist Life 00:18:00 — The One-Way Ticket to Spain That Started It All 00:24:29 — Challenging Age Expectations and Society's Timeline 00:28:23 — Letting Go of Shame and Redefining Success 00:34:57 — Building Confidence Through Small Solo Adventures 00:38:08 — Creating 21 Small Acts and Turning Travel Into Life Lessons 00:41:52 — Finding Home and Belonging in Unexpected Places 00:44:12 — The Hardest Lesson: Learning to Believe in Yourself 00:47:05 — Where to Connect With Tsvety Roo Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #TsvetyRoo #21SmallActs #SoloTravelHealing #SelfDiscoveryJourney #OvercomingFear #EmotionalWellness #BuildingConfidence #RedefiningSuccess #FindingYourself #LonelinessToSolitude #MentalHealthJourney #PersonalGrowth #IntentionalLiving *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official 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.

    Tsvety Roo: Healing Through Solo Travel and Finding Yourself Again

  2. 4d ago

    Stop Trying to Fit In: Eric Gee on Personality Types, Self-Acceptance, and Mental Health

    After years of wondering why he felt different from everyone else, Eric Gee turned his curiosity into a way to help people better understand themselves and each other. In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Eric to talk about personality types, self-acceptance, emotional wellness, and why trying to fit into someone else's version of normal can hold us back. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote "I don't think it's always healthy to try to be like others." — Eric Gee Episode Description Why do we spend so much of our lives trying to become the person everyone else expects us to be? For Eric Gee, Author of The Power of Personality, that question started when he was young and felt different from the people around him. Instead of accepting that he needed to fit in, he became curious about what makes each of us unique. In this funny, refreshingly honest conversation, Eric joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to explore personality types, self-acceptance, and the connection between understanding ourselves and emotional well-being. He introduces his animal-based personality framework, which groups 16 personality types into four packs: gatherers, hunters, smiths, and shamans. But this isn't about slapping another label on yourself. It's about recognizing your natural strengths, understanding your struggles, and realizing that someone else's way of doing things might not work for you. G-Rex shares why her butterfly personality feels ridiculously accurate, while Dirty Skittles opens up about her frustration with traditional personality assessments. Eric explains how his work with students, teachers, and parents revealed the limits of one-size-fits-all expectations. The conversation also gets personal. Eric discusses self-doubt, confidence, the fear of not being good enough, and the advice he'd give his younger self about worrying less about other people's opinions. Whether you've struggled with fitting in, questioned your strengths, or wondered why certain relationships feel complicated, this episode offers a different perspective on personal growth. Because understanding who you are isn't about becoming someone better than everybody else. It's about becoming more comfortable being yourself. Keywords: Eric Gee, The Power of Personality, personality types, self-acceptance, mental health, self-awareness, emotional wellness, self-discovery, personality assessment, confidence building, personal growth, understanding personality differences, healthy relationships, parenting and personality, overcoming self-doubt Meet Our Guest — Eric Gee Eric Gee is an Author, life coach, and writing coach with more than 20 years of experience in personality-based coaching. Through his education company, he developed and applied a personality typing method that has helped more than 20,000 students, parents, and teachers better understand individual differences. His book, The Power of Personality, brings together decades of research and practical experience to help people recognize their strengths, understand others, and embrace what makes them unique. Connect with Eric: Website: https://www.projectyoutopia.com/university Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_power_of_personality/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.c.gee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-gee-3565a79/ Key Takeaways Being different doesn't mean something is wrong with you. Eric's journey reminds us that personal growth starts with understanding our natural tendencies, not constantly trying to meet someone else's expectations. Personality types are tools, not limitations. Eric encourages people to recognize their strengths and motivations without assuming they can only behave in one particular way. Your greatest strengths can also become your biggest struggles. Eric's concept of "deviant roles" explores how our natural tendencies can work against us when they're taken too far. Understanding personality differences can strengthen relationships. Parents, teachers, partners, and coworkers can communicate more thoughtfully when they stop expecting everyone to think and respond the same way. Self-doubt doesn't have to define your confidence. Eric openly discusses questioning whether he's good enough and why reminding ourselves of our abilities matters. Self-acceptance requires letting go of outside expectations. One of Eric's most important life lessons is learning that other people's opinions shouldn't determine how we live. Actionable Items Get curious about your personality. Explore Eric's personality framework and reflect on which descriptions resonate with you. Use the results as a starting point for self-reflection, not a permanent label or clinical assessment. Question one: An expectation you're trying to meet. Think about something you do because you believe you're supposed to. Ask yourself whether it genuinely supports your goals or whether you're trying to fit someone else's definition of success. Practice understanding before judging. The next time someone approaches a problem differently, ask what might motivate their perspective instead of assuming your way is the only right one. Important Chapters 00:00:36 — Meet Eric Gee: Personality, Humor, and Finding Your Own Way 00:04:18 — Why Eric Became Interested in Personality Types 00:07:42 — Understanding Personality Through Animal Types 00:09:58 — The Four Personality Packs: Gatherers, Hunters, Smiths, and Shamans 00:12:07 — Why Being Yourself Matters for Emotional Health 00:15:29 — How Personality Awareness Can Help Students and Teachers 00:17:47 — G-Rex Discovers Her Butterfly Personality 00:19:00 — Deviant Roles: When Personality Strengths Become Weaknesses 00:24:47 — Challenging Traditional Personality Tests and Labels 00:26:04 — Using Personality Awareness to Understand Others 00:27:52 — Eric's Baboon Personality and the Search for Self-Knowledge 00:30:46 — Understanding Personality Differences Between Parents and Children 00:35:14 — What Eric Would Tell His 12-Year-Old Self 00:36:53 — Life's Hardest Lessons: Expectations and Disillusionment 00:37:23 — Anxiety, Self-Doubt, and Learning to Feel Good Enough 00:39:24 — Where to Find Eric's Personality Assessment and Book Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #EricGee #ThePowerOfPersonality #PersonalityTypes #SelfAcceptance #SelfDiscovery #EmotionalWellness #SelfAwareness #PersonalGrowth #ConfidenceBuilding #OvercomingSelfDoubt #HealthyRelationships #UnderstandingYourself #PersonalityAssessment #BeYourself *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official 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.

    Stop Trying to Fit In: Eric Gee on Personality Types, Self-Acceptance, and Mental Health

  3. Oct 29

    Holly Porter: Near-Death Experience, Long COVID & Mental Health Recovery

    Holly Porter survived 70 days in the hospital battling COVID-19, but surviving was only the beginning of her emotional and mental health journey. In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Holly to explore her near-death experience, the devastating mental health impact of long COVID, and how she found purpose, peace, and hope after two of the darkest years of her life. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Love them where they're at.” — Holly Porter Trigger Notice + 988 Crisis Reminder Content Notice: This episode includes conversations about near-death experiences, serious illness, medical trauma, chronic pain, profound emotional distress, family loss, and wishing for death during difficult periods of recovery. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ For crisis resources outside the United States: https://findahelpline.com/ Episode Description What happens when you survive something that nearly kills you, only to discover that staying alive is an entirely different battle? For Holly Porter, surviving COVID-19 meant 70 days in the hospital, two intubations, a tracheotomy, sepsis, and a near-death experience that changed everything she believed about life, purpose, and healing. In this deeply personal episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, Holly joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share the mental health struggles that followed her hospitalization. Long COVID, chronic pain, hair loss, and losing her singing voice were devastating enough. But the emotional aftermath brought nearly two years of darkness, broken relationships, overwhelming grief, and moments when Holly questioned why she had survived at all. Holly opens up about her spiritual experiences, the questions she faced about her legacy, and how finding meaning in her suffering became part of rebuilding her life. She also shares the heartbreaking family challenges that tested her resilience and the lessons she learned about surrender, forgiveness, judgment, and loving people exactly where they are. Through her personal development framework, SHIFT—Surrender, Hope, Intuition, Faith, and Transformation—Holly offers a perspective on navigating adversity without pretending healing happens overnight. This conversation isn't about magically fixing everything. It's about surviving the messy middle, recognizing that emotional recovery takes time, and finding one small way to move forward. If you're navigating long COVID, medical trauma, grief, or the emotional weight of starting over, Holly's story reminds us that progress doesn't have to be dramatic to matter. Sometimes, better is simply better. Keywords: Holly Porter, near-death experience, long COVID mental health, mental health recovery, COVID-19 survivor story, medical trauma recovery, emotional healing, chronic illness and mental health, resilience after trauma, finding purpose after illness, mental health struggles, spiritual transformation, surrender and healing, grief and recovery, mental health podcast Meet Our Guest — Holly Porter Holly Porter is an international speaker, bestselling author of 18 books, entrepreneur, and founder and CEO of the International Retreat Association. With more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience, she also hosts the All Things Retreat podcast and wrote The Near Death SHIFT, a deeply personal exploration of what her near-death experience taught her about life, business, and purpose. Following her 70-day battle with COVID-19 and the emotional challenges that followed, Holly has dedicated herself to helping others transform adversity into purpose, meaningful connection, and positive change. Connect with Holly Porter: Website: https://www.HollyPorter.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyporterinternational/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HOLLYANNPORTER/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IntlRetreatAssociation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyporter/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/hollyporter Substack: https://substack.com/@hollyporter Key Takeaways Survival and recovery aren't the same thing. Holly's 70-day hospitalization was only the beginning. Long COVID, chronic pain, and profound emotional struggles demonstrated how complicated life after a medical crisis can become. Mental health struggles can follow physical trauma. Losing her hair, singing voice, independence, and sense of normalcy affected Holly's emotional well-being in ways she never anticipated. Purpose can help you move forward through uncertainty. Holly found motivation in the commitments and projects she believed she needed to fulfill, even when the rest of her life felt overwhelming. Surrender doesn't have to mean giving up. Through her SHIFT framework, Holly explains how accepting uncertainty and letting go of the need to control everything reshaped her perspective. Compassion matters more than judgment. One of Holly's most meaningful lessons is to love people where they are, even when their choices, beliefs, or experiences differ from yours. Progress doesn't require perfection. Holly's personal reminder, "Better's better," encourages you to focus on small improvements instead of expecting immediate transformation. Actionable Items Ask yourself what you need right now. When life feels overwhelming, borrow Holly's reflective question: "What do I need to learn out of this experience?" Consider what support, information, or change might make today a little more manageable. Practice loving people where they are. When someone triggers frustration or judgment, pause before reacting. Approach the situation with compassion while still respecting your own boundaries. Make "better's better" your daily reminder. Identify one small thing you can do today to support your mental or emotional well-being. It might be reaching out to someone, taking a break, or acknowledging progress you've already made. Important Chapters 00:02:27 — Holly Introduces Her Near-Death Experience 00:03:22 — 70 Days in the Hospital: COVID-19, Sepsis, and Survival 00:04:09 — Understanding Near-Death Experiences and Spiritual Transformation 00:06:32 — Facing Mortality, Self-Worth, and Questions About Legacy 00:09:19 — Being Present Versus Simply Being There 00:10:38 — The Meaning of 11:11 and Holly's New Purpose 00:15:42 — Two Years of Emotional Darkness After Surviving 00:19:09 — Rebuilding Purpose Through Entrepreneurship and Service 00:22:41 — Long COVID, Chronic Pain, and the Mental Health Toll 00:25:55 — What Holly Learned About Moving Through Difficult Times 00:28:48 — Life Review, Forgiveness, and Loving People Where They Are 00:31:09 — The SHIFT Framework: Surrender, Hope, Intuition, Faith, and Transformation 00:32:32 — Online Judgment, Harsh Comments, and Emotional Boundaries 00:38:46 — Family Heartbreak and One of Holly's Hardest Lessons 00:41:19 — Better's Better: Finding Strength in Small Steps 00:42:29 — Why Peace Became Holly's Favorite Word 00:43:20 — Where to Find Holly and Her Closing Message Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #HollyPorter #NearDeathExperience #LongCOVID #MentalHealthRecovery #MedicalTrauma #ChronicIllnessSupport #EmotionalHealing #ResilienceAfterTrauma #FindingPurpose #GriefAndHealing #SelfCompassion #SurrenderAndHealing #COVIDSurvivor #MentalHealthJourney #HealingAfterTrauma *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official 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.

    Holly Porter: Near-Death Experience, Long COVID & Mental Health Recovery

  4. Oct 27

    Steve Collins: Living with vEDS, Health Anxiety, and Letting Go of Control

    What happens when a life-threatening medical diagnosis forces you to rethink everything you thought you could control? In this deeply personal episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Steve Collins to explore his journey through vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS), medical trauma, job loss, and the powerful role of faith, humor, and resilience in finding purpose after life changes overnight. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Your identity isn't defined by what you can do. Sometimes your greatest purpose comes from learning to let go, accept help, and show up for others in a different way.” — Inspired by Steve Collins Content Notice & Crisis Resources This episode includes discussions of life-threatening medical emergencies, chronic illness, medical trauma, fear of death, and the emotional impact of losing independence and employment. Please listen with care. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ For crisis resources outside the United States: https://findahelpline.com/ Episode Description Steve Collins thought he had a stubborn stomach issue. Instead, persistent abdominal pain led to an artery dissection, a 32-day hospital stay, and a diagnosis he'd never heard of: vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS), a rare connective tissue disorder that changed what everyday life could look like. His decision to ask doctors to re-examine his scan became a powerful lesson in speaking up for your health. But surviving the medical crisis was only the beginning. Steve tells G-Rex and Dirty Skittles what happened when he returned home and realized he couldn't simply muscle through life the way he always had. The guy who fixed everything, jumped in to help others, and took pride in showing up at work now had to ask for help, accept physical limits, and reckon with a terrifying question: Who am I if I can't do what I used to do? At the same time, layoffs and the uncertainty of contract work challenged his sense of security. Steve opens up about the emotional fallout of job loss, the urge to control outcomes, and the anxiety that can follow a diagnosis when ordinary aches suddenly feel loaded with meaning. He also talks honestly about how medical emergencies affect spouses and families, not just patients. Through it all, his faith in God, his family's support, a sense of humor, and connections with others living with rare conditions helped him rethink what purpose looks like. You'll hear why he wears a medical alert bracelet, keeps health information handy, and believes that a respectful second question can matter. This isn't a story about pretending fear disappears. It's about learning to live with uncertainty without letting it run the whole damn show. Keywords: Steve Collins, vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, vEDS awareness, health anxiety, chronic illness mental health, rare disease diagnosis, medical trauma recovery, patient self-advocacy, faith over fear, letting go of control, job loss trauma, emotional resilience, chronic illness identity, caregiver mental health, finding purpose after illness Meet Our Guest — Steve Collins Steve Collins is a husband, stepfather, business leader, and man of faith living with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS), a rare genetic connective tissue disorder. As Strategic Partner and Principal Consultant at PADE HCM Services, he brings his professional experience into a new chapter of entrepreneurship while navigating the physical and emotional realities of his diagnosis. Through his story, Steve encourages others to advocate for their health, recognize the impact of medical trauma, and find meaning through faith, connection, and accepting what they cannot control. Connect with Steve: Company: PADE HCM Services Website: https://www.padeservices.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StevevEDS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-collins-shrm-cp-ms-b47a2538a/ Key Takeaways Self-advocacy can change everything. Steve's decision to ask for another review of his medical scan helped uncover a dangerous arterial dissection. Asking questions and speaking up about persistent concerns can be essential to getting appropriate care. Medical trauma doesn't end when you leave the hospital. Living with vEDS means navigating uncertainty, physical restrictions, medication effects, and the emotional weight of knowing that serious complications can occur unexpectedly. Your diagnosis doesn't define who you are. Steve struggled when activities that once gave him purpose became unsafe. He learned that helping others doesn't always require physical strength; sometimes encouragement and simply being present are just as meaningful. Job loss can leave emotional scars even before it happens to you. Watching colleagues lose their jobs affected Steve's sense of security and led him to seek greater control over his financial future. His story reminds us that employment uncertainty can affect confidence, relationships, and emotional well-being. Caregivers carry their own invisible burdens. While Steve was hospitalized, his wife managed their family, work, and the fear of potentially losing someone she loved. Supporting the people standing beside someone in crisis matters just as much. Faith and community can help create purpose within uncertainty. Steve's relationship with God, his family, and others facing rare diagnoses helped him shift from focusing only on what he'd lost to recognizing how his experiences could encourage others. Actionable Items Advocate for yourself during medical appointments. Track your symptoms, ask questions when something doesn't make sense, and request clarification or a second opinion when concerns remain unresolved. Follow your medical team's guidance for urgent symptoms; don't delay emergency care. Identify where you're holding on too tightly. Think about a situation involving work, health, finances, or relationships where you're trying to control every outcome. Ask yourself what you can genuinely influence, what you cannot, and where accepting support might make life easier. Check on the caregivers, too. When someone you know is facing a health crisis, reach out to their spouse, partner, or family. Offer something specific, such as helping with a household task, bringing a meal, or simply listening without expecting them to have everything figured out. Important Chapters 00:01:33 — Job Loss, Financial Uncertainty, and Finding Gratitude 00:02:37 — The Abdominal Pain That Changed Steve's Life 00:03:58 — Discovering an Arterial Dissection and a Rare Diagnosis 00:06:23 — Medical Trauma and the Hidden Struggles of Caregivers 00:08:47 — Finding Purpose in the Middle of Suffering 00:12:28 — Layoff Trauma, Fear, and the Need for Control 00:17:11 — Genetic Testing and Understanding Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome 00:23:41 — The Importance of Medical Self-Advocacy 00:26:53 — Living with Health Anxiety and a New Normal 00:30:11 — Chronic Illness, Identity Loss, and Learning to Accept Help 00:33:59 — Parenting, Stress, and the Fear of Physical Complications 00:36:12 — Work-Life Balance and Learning to Prioritize Health 00:38:25 — What Steve Would Tell His Younger Self About Control 00:40:35 — Faith Over Fear and Trusting God Through Uncertainty 00:44:27 — Finding Community and Supporting Others with vEDS Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #VascularEDS #VEDSAwareness #EhlersDanlosSyndrome #RareDiseaseAwareness #MedicalSelfAdvocacy #ChronicIllnessJourney #HealthAnxiety #MedicalTrauma #FaithOverFear #JobLossRecovery #LettingGoOfControl #CaregiverSupport #LivingWithVEDS *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official 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.

    Steve Collins: Living with vEDS, Health Anxiety, and Letting Go of Control

  5. Oct 22

    You Are More Than Your Worst Mistake: Ranae on Healing After Prison, Resilience, and Second Chances — Part 2

    Can prison become the place where someone finally begins to heal from a lifetime of trauma? In Part 2, Ranae Van Roekel returns with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to discuss surviving a serious mental health crisis, discovering healthier coping skills during incarceration, rebuilding relationships, and creating a new purpose through Connecting to Cope. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You are not the worst thing you ever did.” — Ranae Van Roekel Trigger Notice + 988 Crisis Reminder Content Notice: This episode includes discussions of suicidal thoughts, severe depression, childhood sexual trauma, incarceration, and mental health treatment. The conversation also explores recovery, self-worth, and the importance of supportive relationships. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ For crisis resources outside the United States: https://findahelpline.com/ Episode Description Imagine walking into prison carrying decades of shame, untreated childhood trauma, and the belief that your worst decisions are all you'll ever be remembered for. Now imagine discovering that healing is still possible. In Part 2, Ranae Van Roekel returns to Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads for a powerful conversation with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles about mental health recovery, resilience, incarceration, and rebuilding a life after devastating choices. Before entering prison, Ranae experienced severe depression and suicidal thoughts that led to a stay at a mental health treatment facility. Although she had begun recognizing her need for help, it wasn't until incarceration that she started confronting the childhood trauma she had spent decades suppressing. Ranae shares how therapy, psychiatric care, physical activity, self-esteem classes, and meaningful friendships helped her challenge deeply ingrained beliefs about herself. A mental health professional who refused to accept her avoidance became especially important in helping her recognize destructive thinking patterns. After serving 36 months, Ranae returned home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reconnecting with her husband and sons, setting healthier boundaries, and welcoming her beloved dog, Cope, helped shape her next chapter. That journey inspired Connecting to Cope, her platform for emotional wellness, self-care, and compassionate support. Together, the trio explores how forgiveness differs from accountability, why healing requires ongoing effort, and how supportive relationships can help people rebuild without erasing the harm they've caused. Ranae's message is simple but powerful: your past is part of your story, not your entire identity. No matter how far you've fallen, the next step still matters. Keywords: Ranae Van Roekel, healing after prison, mental health recovery, trauma healing, resilience and recovery, prison rehabilitation, second chances, suicide prevention, emotional resilience, mental health treatment, self-worth and shame, coping skills, rebuilding after incarceration, Connecting to Cope, personal transformation Meet Our Guest — Ranae Van Roekel Ranae Van Roekel is a mental health advocate, justice reform advocate, and founder of Connecting to Cope, an initiative focused on helping people find healing and growth beyond their circumstances. Drawing from her experiences with childhood trauma, federal incarceration, mental health treatment, and rebuilding her life, she encourages others to recognize their worth while taking responsibility for their actions. Ranae is also a wife, mother, grandmother, and devoted dog lover who believes that empathy, honest conversations, and ongoing personal work can create meaningful change. Connect with Ranae: Website: https://connectingtocope.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/connectingtocope/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/connecting-to-cope/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectingtoCope Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connectingtocope/ Key Takeaways Healing can begin in unexpected places. Ranae started confronting decades of unresolved childhood trauma while serving her prison sentence, although she acknowledges that incarceration itself does not guarantee healing. Mental health recovery happens one step at a time. Counseling, physical activity, better sleep, and learning new ways of thinking helped Ranae build a healthier foundation. Your past does not have to define your identity. Ranae encourages people to recognize the full picture of who they are rather than reducing themselves to their worst decisions. Healthy boundaries are essential to rebuilding relationships. Returning home meant recognizing which friendships were supportive and which relationships were no longer healthy for her. Real support includes accountability. Ranae credits her husband and sons with loving her while also challenging her when she slips into old people-pleasing patterns. Recovery is an ongoing practice, not a finish line. Ranae openly acknowledges that she still experiences anxiety, makes mistakes, and must continually practice healthier coping skills. Actionable Items Start with one manageable step. Identify one small action that supports your well-being today, whether that's taking a walk, reaching out for support, or creating space to rest. Challenge all-or-nothing self-judgment. When shame tells you that one mistake defines your entire life, remind yourself that you are responsible for your choices but are also capable of making new ones. Strengthen your support system. Identify people who can listen without judgment, respect your boundaries, and lovingly hold you accountable when old habits return. Important Chapters 00:00:46 — Finding Hope Before Entering Prison 00:01:44 — Severe Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, and Getting Help 00:03:39 — Recognizing the Connection Between Trauma and Choices 00:05:05 — Saying Goodbye to Her Husband at Prison Intake 00:05:59 — The Moment Ranae Decided to Find Herself 00:06:30 — Therapy, Self-Esteem Classes, and Healthier Coping Skills 00:08:35 — Adjusting to Life Inside Federal Prison 00:11:35 — Finding Friendship and Support Behind Bars 00:14:26 — Discovering the Prison Service Dog Program 00:15:43 — The Mental Health Professional Who Challenged Her Thinking 00:18:52 — Escaping the Prison of Your Own Mind 00:20:22 — Coming Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic 00:24:00 — Friendship, Rejection, and Learning Healthy Boundaries 00:27:13 — Advice for Anyone Who Thinks They've Ruined Their Life 00:29:39 — Rebuilding Family Life After Incarceration 00:30:35 — Meeting Cope and Finding a New Purpose 00:34:02 — What Ranae Would Tell Her Younger Self 00:35:00 — Why You Shouldn't Push Away the People Who Love You 00:38:03 — Resilience, Self-Worth, and the Power of Words 00:39:21 — Connecting to Cope and Ranae's Children's Book 00:41:15 — You Are Not the Worst Thing You've Ever Done 00:42:07 — Family Accountability and Continuing the Work Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #RanaeVanRoekel #HealingAfterPrison #MentalHealthRecovery #TraumaHealing #ResilienceMatters #SecondChances #PrisonReform #SuicidePrevention #SelfWorth #HealthyCopingSkills #EmotionalResilience #LifeAfterIncarceration #ConnectingToCope #OvercomingShame #KeepDoingTheWork *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official 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.

    You Are More Than Your Worst Mistake: Ranae on Healing After Prison, Resilience, and Second Chances — Part 2

  6. Oct 20

    You Are More Than Your Worst Mistake: Ranae on Childhood Trauma, People-Pleasing, and Accountability — Part 1

    What happens when unresolved childhood trauma, decades of people-pleasing, and the fear of being judged lead you down a path you never imagined? In Part 1, Ranae Van Roekel joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles for a deeply honest conversation about childhood sexual trauma, anxiety, shame, financial fraud, and the life-changing decision to take responsibility for her actions. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “I’m not saying I’m stupid. I’m saying I made a stupid choice.” — Ranae Van Roekel Trigger Notice + 988 Crisis Reminder Content Notice: This episode includes discussions of childhood sexual assault, rape, suicidal thoughts, depression, financial fraud, and the emotional impact of incarceration. Please listen with care and take a break if you need one. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ For crisis resources outside the United States: https://findahelpline.com/ Episode Description What happens when the trauma you've spent your entire life hiding starts shaping decisions you never thought you'd make? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles welcome Ranae Van Roekel, a wife, mother, grandmother, and founder of Connecting to Cope, for an unfiltered discussion about childhood sexual trauma, people-pleasing, shame, and taking accountability when everything falls apart. As a young girl, Ranae experienced sexual assault and tried to tell trusted adults what happened. Instead of receiving the support she needed, she learned to associate her experience with being "bad." That belief followed her into adulthood, contributing to a pattern of overcommitting, seeking approval, and struggling to face difficult truths. Years later, what began as a small ticket-reselling business spiraled into fraudulent transactions. Ranae admits she made illegal choices while desperately trying to fix a situation that kept getting worse. The pressure, anxiety, and fear became overwhelming. Eventually, she faced a terrifying crossroads: end her life or come forward and take responsibility. She chose to tell the truth. Ranae shares what happened when she voluntarily contacted authorities, confessed to her husband, and began reaching out to the people she had harmed. The conversation also explores the emotional cost of apologizing, the impact of public judgment, and how her family's reactions changed everything. This isn't a story about using trauma to excuse wrongdoing. It's about understanding how unresolved pain can shape behavior while recognizing that accountability and healing can coexist. Sometimes, the first step toward changing your life is admitting that you can't keep living the way you have been. Keywords: Ranae Van Roekel, childhood trauma recovery, people-pleasing, mental health and shame, sexual assault survivor, unresolved trauma, trauma responses, anxiety and depression, accountability and healing, overcoming guilt, mental health crisis, emotional resilience, family support, Connecting to Cope, mental health podcast Meet Our Guest — Ranae Van Roekel Ranae Van Roekel founded Connecting to Cope, a platform that helps people navigate trauma, emotional struggles, and personal growth through education, self-care, and community. After serving 36 months in federal prison, Ranae transformed her experiences with unresolved childhood trauma, accountability, and mental health recovery into a mission centered on compassion and second chances. Today, she also advocates for justice reform and a greater understanding of the human experiences behind incarceration. Connect with Ranae: Website: https://connectingtocope.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/connectingtocope/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/connecting-to-cope/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnectingtoCope Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connectingtocope/ Key Takeaways Unresolved trauma can affect choices decades later. Ranae's childhood experience shaped how she saw herself, handled conflict, and sought others' approval. People-pleasing can become a damaging coping pattern. Constantly trying to make everyone happy made it harder for Ranae to acknowledge problems and set boundaries. Trauma explains context, not responsibility. Ranae distinguishes between the experiences that influenced her thinking and the criminal decisions she ultimately made. Shame can keep people trapped in unhealthy cycles. Believing she was inherently "bad" fueled Ranae's fear of judgment and her avoidance of difficult conversations. Taking accountability doesn't guarantee forgiveness. Ranae's apologies were important, even when the people she harmed remained understandably angry. Support can make confronting the truth possible. Her husband's eventual willingness to face the consequences alongside her became a significant source of stability. Actionable Items Notice your people-pleasing patterns. The next time you're tempted to say yes when you're already overwhelmed, ask yourself whether you're acting from genuine willingness or fear of disappointing someone. Separate your behavior from your identity. When you make a mistake, acknowledge what happened and what needs to change without automatically deciding that you are a terrible person. Tell someone when you're struggling. If shame, anxiety, or an unresolved problem feels too heavy to handle alone, reach out to a trusted person or qualified mental health professional rather than trying to fix everything yourself. Important Chapters 00:01:08 — Ranae Opens Up About Her Story and Her Mission to Help Others 00:01:38 — The Prison Doors That Changed Everything 00:04:03 — The Decision to Stop Hiding and Come Forward 00:05:45 — Choosing to Tell the Truth During a Mental Health Crisis 00:07:26 — The Federal Fraud Conviction 00:09:27 — Childhood Sexual Trauma and the Shame That Followed 00:11:11 — How a Small Ticket Business Became Financial Fraud 00:14:08 — People-Pleasing, Dissociation, and Trying to Fix Everything 00:18:15 — Telling Her Husband and Family the Truth 00:21:05 — A Husband's Anger, Love, and Decision to Stay 00:22:05 — Apologizing to the People She Harmed 00:23:55 — Federal Sentencing and Justice System Concerns 00:29:27 — The Emotional Toll of Shame and Apologizing 00:30:51 — Community Judgment and Protecting Her Family Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #RanaeVanRoekel #ChildhoodTrauma #TraumaRecovery #PeoplePleasing #BreakingTheShameCycle #SexualAssaultSurvivor #AccountabilityAndHealing #MentalHealthRecovery #AnxietyAwareness #OvercomingShame #EmotionalHealing #FamilySupport #ConnectingToCope #SecondChances #HealingFromTrauma *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official 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.

    You Are More Than Your Worst Mistake: Ranae on Childhood Trauma, People-Pleasing, and Accountability — Part 1

  7. Oct 15

    D E Foster: The Hidden Reality of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal and Long-Term Healing

    What happens when a medication prescribed to help you becomes the beginning of a life-changing health battle? In this powerful episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with D E Foster to uncover the hidden realities of benzodiazepine withdrawal, chronic anxiety, and living with Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND). From 12 years on Klonopin to becoming a voice for patients navigating withdrawal, D shares a story of resilience, medical advocacy, and learning that healing doesn't always follow a straight line. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Kindness to ourselves, take care of yourself, be good to yourself, treat yourself well, and equal kindness to others.” — D E Foster Content Notice & Mental Health Crisis Resources Content Notice: This episode includes discussions of benzodiazepine dependence, prolonged withdrawal symptoms, chronic anxiety, medical trauma, loss of independence, and suicide. Please take care of yourself as you listen. D shares the heartbreaking loss of two close friends to suicide while discussing the emotional and physical challenges some people experience during prolonged benzodiazepine withdrawal. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ For crisis resources outside the United States: https://findahelpline.com/ Important Medication Safety Reminder: Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be medically dangerous, particularly when medication is stopped abruptly. Do not stop or change a prescribed medication without working with a qualified healthcare professional. This episode shares lived experiences and educational information, not individualized medical advice. Episode Description Imagine taking a prescribed medication for 12 years, trusting that it's helping you, only to discover that coming off it could change your life in ways you never expected. That's exactly what happened to D E Foster. In this eye-opening conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles welcome D, an author, podcaster, medical researcher, and patient advocate who has dedicated more than a decade to helping people understand benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal. Originally prescribed Klonopin for chronic stomach distress, D spent 12 years taking the medication without being warned about the potential complications of long-term use. When he eventually learned about those risks, he began an 18-month taper. His final dose was August 20, 2014, but his journey was far from over. D opens up about living with Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND), including cognitive challenges, physical symptoms, and the emotional toll of losing his career and independence. He also explains the critical difference between physical dependence and addiction, why individualized medical guidance matters, and how his lived experience helped shape benzodiazepine research and clinical guidelines. But this conversation isn't just about medication. It's about what happens when life doesn't return to normal, and you have to figure out what normal looks like now. From meditation and mindfulness to his wife's unwavering support, D shares the coping tools, relationships, and sense of purpose that have helped him navigate his toughest moments. He also gets real about people-pleasing, setting boundaries, and stepping away from advocacy work to protect his own well-being. Because sometimes the strongest thing you can do isn't push harder. It's recognizing when you need to take care of yourself. Keywords: D E Foster, benzodiazepine withdrawal, Klonopin withdrawal, benzodiazepine dependence, BIND, Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction, protracted withdrawal, chronic anxiety, benzodiazepine tapering, anxiety medication, mental health advocacy, medication withdrawal support, long-term healing, mindfulness for anxiety, self-compassion Meet Our Guest — D E Foster D E Foster is an author, podcaster, medical researcher, and mental health advocate specializing in chronic anxiety, benzodiazepine dependence, and the complications of long-term withdrawal. After his own difficult experience discontinuing Klonopin, he wrote Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal, created the Benzo Free Podcast, and helped advance research identifying Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND). As co-founder and co-chair of the Benzodiazepine Action Work Group, D has contributed to medical education, peer-support training, and research initiatives, including helping develop the American Society of Addiction Medicine's 2025 benzodiazepine tapering guidelines. He also founded Uneven Life, a community organization that supports people affected by BIND, and continues sharing his knowledge while prioritizing his own health. Connect with D E Foster: Website: https://unevenLife.com X: https://x.com/theunevenlife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theUnevenLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/defoster88/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theunevenlife Key Takeaways Physical dependence and addiction aren't the same thing. D explains how people taking benzodiazepines exactly as prescribed can develop physical dependence without the behaviors associated with addiction, and why understanding that difference matters for compassionate care. Benzodiazepine withdrawal isn't always a short-term experience. While many people recover without prolonged difficulties, D's experience with BIND reveals why persistent symptoms deserve medical attention, research, and understanding. Being informed changes the conversation with your doctor. D discusses the 2025 ASAM benzodiazepine tapering guidelines and why informed, collaborative conversations between patients and healthcare providers are essential. Healing requires more than managing physical symptoms. Meditation, mindfulness, breathing exercises, meaningful activities, and supportive relationships helped D cope with anxiety and the ongoing challenges of withdrawal. Supporting others shouldn't come at the expense of your own well-being. After years of community leadership, D stepped away from running support groups and coaching services to focus on his health, reminding us that boundaries matter even when the work is deeply personal. Kindness and compassionate responsibility can exist together. D's approach recognizes that people deserve understanding and support while still having agency in how they respond to difficult circumstances. Actionable Items Prepare for a more informed medication conversation. If you have questions about a prescribed benzodiazepine, write down your symptoms, concerns, and medication history. Discuss them with your prescribing clinician and ask about the ASAM benzodiazepine tapering guidelines when relevant. Never adjust your dosage independently. Experiment with a small anxiety-management practice. D found meditation especially helpful during his hardest moments. Try a few minutes of mindful breathing, a gentle relaxation exercise, or another grounding activity that feels comfortable for you. The goal isn't to eliminate anxiety instantly; it's to discover tools that support you. Practice kindness with boundaries. Think about one responsibility you've taken on because you don't want to disappoint someone. Ask whether it's sustainable and consider where you might need more rest, support, or a compassionate boundary. Important Chapters 00:00:37 — Meet D E Foster: From Patient to Benzodiazepine Advocate 00:02:37 — Why D Was Prescribed Klonopin for Stomach Problems 00:05:27 — The 18-Month Taper and the Reality of Withdrawal 00:07:30 — Living With BIND and Choosing Self-Care 00:11:26 — Neurological Symptoms and the Loss of Independence 00:13:17 — The Emotional Toll of Withdrawal and Losing Friends to Suicide 00:14:59 — Why Peer Support Matters During Benzodiazepine Withdrawal 00:17:21 — Finding a Doctor Who Understands Benzo Tapering 00:19:53 — ASAM Guidelines and Changing Medical Conversations 00:21:35 — Why D Decided to Stop Taking Klonopin 00:23:15 — Understanding Slow Tapers and Protracted Withdrawal 00:25:36 — Meditation, Mindfulness, and Relearning Anxiety Management 00:27:55 — The Power of Marriage, Purpose, and Emotional Support 00:30:25 — Why Honest Podcasting Creates Real Human Connection 00:35:08 — Physical Dependence vs. Addiction 00:37:32 — What D Would Tell His Younger Self 00:39:06 — Kindness, People-Pleasing, and Setting Boundaries 00:41:28 — If Anxiety Had a Theme Song 00:43:29 — Everybody Has Their Shit: Finding Perspective 00:45:15 — Kindness, Blame, and Compassionate Responsibility 00:47:19 — Where to Find D and Benzodiazepine Support Resources Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #DEFoster #BenzodiazepineWithdrawal #BenzoAwareness #KlonopinWithdrawal #BINDRecovery #ChronicAnxiety #AnxietyManagement #MentalHealthAdvocacy #MedicationAwareness #ProtractedWithdrawal #BenzoTapering #MindfulnessForAnxiety #SelfCompassion #PatientAdvocacy #LongTermHealing **************************************************************

    D E Foster: The Hidden Reality of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal and Long-Term Healing

  8. Oct 13

    Alexis: You Are Not Your Diagnosis — Redefining Mental Health

    Who gets to define who you are? Your diagnosis, your past, or someone else's expectations? In this hilariously honest and deeply meaningful episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Alexis, a special education teacher, mental health advocate, and founder of Permission to Define, to talk about living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), challenging mental health stereotypes, finding the right therapist, setting boundaries, and taking back the power to define yourself. Awards & Downloads Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote "The hardest lesson I've ever learned is disclosure is not access." — Alexis Kur Content Notice & Mental Health Crisis Resources This episode includes conversations about Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), trauma, mental health stigma, difficult therapeutic experiences, discrimination related to a mental health diagnosis, and a brief mention of a past suicide attempt. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ For crisis resources outside the United States: https://findahelpline.com/ Episode Description What if everything you've been told about your mental health, your identity, and what success should look like isn't the whole story? In this powerful, funny, and unapologetically honest episode, Alexis joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), challenging mental health stigma, and refusing to let anyone else define who you are. Diagnosed with DID at 26, Alexis opens up about navigating nearly two decades of therapy, confronting misconceptions about her diagnosis, and building a trusted team of three therapists she affectionately calls her "Justice League." From equine-assisted therapy to exploring EMDR, she shares why finding the right mental health support matters and why healing sometimes requires questioning the language and expectations surrounding it. Alexis also shares the remarkable career change that took her from a successful, six-figure environmental consulting career to teaching high school special education. For her, success is no longer measured by money or professional recognition. It's watching a struggling student find the confidence to walk into class or discover a strength nobody else noticed. Things get especially real when Alexis discusses having her diagnosis used against her by someone she trusted professionally. That painful experience reinforced one of her most important lessons: Disclosure is not access. Sharing your story doesn't give someone permission to weaponize it. Through laughter, vulnerability, and plenty of colorful language, Alexis reminds us that lived experience matters, boundaries are essential, and only you get to decide what your diagnosis or your life means. Because sometimes the most powerful thing you can do for your mental health is stop trying to fit someone else's definition of normal. Keywords: Alexis Kur, Permission to Define, Dissociative Identity Disorder, DID awareness, living with DID, mental health stigma, mental health advocacy, trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, equine-assisted therapy, therapy relationships, mental health boundaries, self-advocacy, redefining success, lived experience Meet Our Guest — Alexis Alexis is a high school special education teacher, mental health advocate, speaker, writer, and founder of Permission to Define, a platform dedicated to challenging labels, amplifying lived experiences, and changing conversations about mental health. After 15 years in environmental consulting, Alexis traded a six-figure salary for something far more meaningful: helping teenagers recognize their strengths, build confidence, and believe in themselves. Now, working with high school students who receive special education services for emotional impairments, she brings compassion, authenticity, and her lived experience into the classroom. Diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) at 26, Alexis has spent nearly two decades navigating therapy, confronting mental health stereotypes, and discovering what it means to live authentically. Through Permission to Define, she champions the value of lived experience, challenges limiting language, and encourages others to take ownership of how they define themselves. With sharp humor, unapologetic honesty, and a refreshing willingness to question the status quo, Alexis reminds us that a diagnosis is information, not an identity, and that everyone deserves the freedom to tell their own story. Connect with Alexis: Website: https://permissiontodefine.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PermissiontoDefine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisekur5030/ Key Takeaways Your diagnosis doesn't define your identity. Alexis challenges misconceptions about Dissociative Identity Disorder and reminds us that a diagnosis may help explain someone's experiences, but it never tells their entire story. Disclosure is not access. Sharing personal mental health information doesn't give anyone permission to weaponize that information, cross your boundaries, or demand access to parts of your life you've chosen to keep private. Finding the right therapist can change your mental health journey. Alexis's trusted "Justice League" of three therapists demonstrates how collaboration, respect, and a strong therapeutic relationship can make difficult emotional work feel more manageable. Success is about purpose, not just a paycheck. Leaving a lucrative environmental consulting career helped Alexis realize that watching a student overcome a challenge can be more rewarding than professional status or financial success. Lived experience deserves a voice in mental health conversations. Alexis uses her experiences with DID and therapy to help educators, mental health professionals, and others better understand the perspectives of people living with mental health conditions. You have permission to challenge the language of healing. Whether she's questioning the word "resilient" or pushing back against scripted therapy phrases, Alexis reminds us that we can choose words and definitions that genuinely reflect our experiences. Actionable Items Redefine a label you've been carrying. Choose one word others have used to describe you, such as anxious, difficult, or resilient, and consider whether it reflects who you are or whether it's time to create your own definition. Practice setting boundaries around personal disclosure. Before sharing something about your mental health, decide what you're comfortable revealing and remind yourself that being honest doesn't mean giving someone unlimited access to your personal experiences. Evaluate whether your support system respects your needs. Think about whether the people supporting your mental health listen without judgment, respect your boundaries, and encourage you to participate in decisions about your well-being. Important Chapters 00:00:37 — Meet Alexis: Mental Health Advocate and Educator 00:01:22 — Overcommitting, Perfectionism, and Mental Health 00:04:29 — Living With DID and the Art of Multitasking 00:07:54 — Finding Balance and Learning to Protect Your Time 00:11:30 — Leaving a Six-Figure Career to Redefine Success 00:14:13 — Building Trust With Special Education Students 00:19:45 — How Lived Experience Shapes Alexis's Teaching 00:23:05 — Receiving a Dissociative Identity Disorder Diagnosis 00:24:27 — The Therapy Justice League: EMDR and Equine-Assisted Therapy 00:27:24 — Why Alexis Challenges Traditional Therapy Language 00:30:01 — Finding the Right Therapist and Building Trust 00:33:19 — Overcoming Fear Through Equine-Assisted Therapy 00:37:05 — Why Therapy Is Hard Work 00:37:51 — Creating Permission to Define 00:39:32 — Living Authentically Beyond Mental Health Labels 00:42:48 — Advice to Her Younger Self: Finding Your People 00:43:34 — Disclosure Is Not Access: Learning Difficult Boundaries 00:44:56 — Mental Health Advice That Misses the Mark 00:46:13 — Anxiety Theme Songs, Humor, and the Power of Words 00:49:02 — Connecting With Alexis and Permission to Define 00:49:54 — Closing Thoughts and Mental Health Reminder Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! 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 #Alexis #PermissionToDefine #DissociativeIdentityDisorder #DIDAwareness #MentalHealthStigma #MentalHealthAdvocacy #TraumaHealing #TherapyJourney #MentalHealthBoundaries #SelfAdvocacy #LivedExperienceMatters #RedefiningSuccess #AuthenticLiving #SpecialEducation #YouAreNotYourDiagnosis *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If 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 Skittles Official Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltt

    Alexis: You Are Not Your Diagnosis — Redefining Mental Health
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About

”Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads” is a podcast that emerged from G-Rex’s personal mental health journey, starting with a breakdown in 2022. Supported by her wife, 988, and a higher power, G-Rex found healing and vowed to destigmatize mental health struggles. With best friend Dirty Skittles, the podcast tackles life’s challenges with humor and honesty, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue. Listeners join their engaging discussions on relationships, parenting, pop culture, and mental health, gaining practical tips and a sense of community. Through laughter and camaraderie, the podcast offers empowerment and solidarity, reminding everyone that it’s okay not to be okay and encouraging reaching out for support. Ultimately, ”Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads” is a beacon of hope, humor, and companionship, advocating for mental health awareness and inclusivity.

Information

  • Creator
    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Bleav
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    246
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads
  • Show Website
    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

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