Leaving CrazyTown

Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen
  • 5.0 (18)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Leaving CrazyTown, a Podcast and YouTube channel by Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen. They help navigate life's ups and downs, including codependency. With personal experiences and mental health expertise, they offer insights and strategies to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Episodes cover anxiety, depression, relationships, and self-improvement. This podcast is for anyone seeking guidance to improve mental health and well-being. Join Leaving CrazyTown and start your journey to a happier, healthier life.

  1. 1D AGO

    Sober Sex: Why It’s So Uncomfortable at First (And Why It Gets Better)

    Can you imagine having sex without booze… or does that thought make you want to crawl out of your skin? In this episode, Finn and Dr. Sarah get honest about sober sex — what it looked like in addiction versus what it requires in recovery. From detachment, low standards, and seeking validation to body image fears, rejection anxiety, and learning discernment, they unpack the uncomfortable shift from numb hookups to real intimacy. They explore how addiction blurred choice, how early sobriety brings a flood of insecurity, and why staying in your body is both terrifying and transformative. Because sober sex isn’t about performance — it’s about presence. And presence requires vulnerability. Takeaways In addiction, sex is often about validation, fear, and proving worth — not connectionSober sex brings up body image issues and rejection fears that substances once numbedDiscernment is a recovery skill — you get to choose who you’re intimate with Casual relationships can activate codependent patterns if you ignore your own truth• Real intimacy requires vulnerability, honesty, and embracing discomfortFun and play are possible in sober sex — it doesn’t have to be heavy or performativeNotable ResourcesDr. Sarah Michaud, Author of Co CrazyFollow @leavingcrazytown on YouTubeWebsite: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ If this conversation resonated, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown — and share it with someone navigating intimacy in recovery. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery — with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up — we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    16 min

  2. MAR 10

    Faith, Fear, and Freedom: What “Wake Up” Reveals About Recovery

    In this Boozeless Book Club episode, Dr. Sarah Michaud and Amy Liz Harrison dive deep into Wake Up by Jen Hatmaker—a book that challenges rigid belief systems, recovery dogma, and fear-based spirituality. Together, they unpack what happens when programs meant to heal start replacing one form of control with another, especially for women navigating sobriety, faith, and codependency. This is an honest, nuanced conversation about reclaiming discernment, self-trust, and emotional freedom—without throwing out what truly works. Key Takeaways Rigid recovery rules often mirror the same power dynamics we’re trying to heal from Women in recovery frequently need self-trust—not ego reduction Fear-based spirituality undermines emotional sobriety Both accountability and personal agency can coexist Thinking for yourself is not a relapse—it’s growth Key Timestamps [02:10] Why this book felt “meaty” and activating [07:45] Trading one dogma for another in recovery [14:30] Fear-based faith, shame, and loss of self [22:10] When “look at your part” becomes self-blame [30:40] Holding nuance without burning bridges Notable Resources Wake Up — Jen Hatmaker Dr. Sarah Michaud, Author of Co Crazy https://drsarahmichaud.com/ If this episode stirred something in you, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown—and share it with someone learning to trust themselves again. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    51 min

  3. MAR 3

    The Truth About Love vs Codependency in Relationships

    Is it love… or is it codependency dressed up as romance? In this Valentine’s Day episode, Finn and Dr. Sarah break down the real differences between healthy love and codependent attachment. Drawing from their own relationships (yes, they’re both in love right now), they unpack the subtle ways we confuse control, people-pleasing, emotional blame, and conflict avoidance with “being loving.” From emotional regulation and over-offering to relentless self-sacrifice and white lies, this episode gives you three clear distinctions between love and codependency—plus the hard truths that deepen intimacy instead of destroying it. Because real love doesn’t require you to disappear.And it definitely doesn’t require you to manage someone else’s emotions. Takeaways Love means regulating your own emotions instead of blaming your partner Codependency often shows up as fixing, over-managing, or forcing help Asking once and trusting the answer builds respect and intimacy Self-sacrifice without boundaries leads to resentment and rage Honest, difficult conversations create deeper connection than conflict avoidance ever will Notable Resources Dr. Sarah Michaud, Author of Co CrazyFollow @leavingcrazytown on YouTubeWebsite: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ If you loved this conversation, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown—and share it with a friend ready to reclaim their voice and leave confusion behind. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    13 min

  4. FEB 24

    CrazyTown Confessions: The Subtle Manipulation You Didn’t Know Was Codependency

    What does subtle codependency actually look like in real life? In this kickoff episode of CrazyTown Confessions, Finn and Dr. Sarah pull back the curtain on their own sneaky patterns—manipulation disguised as care, irritation masked as concern, and the quiet control tactics that slip in when we’re trying to soothe ourselves. From storm anxiety and “helpful suggestions” to shoulder injuries, insurance battles, and unspoken resentment, this episode shows how codependency often hides in the smallest moments. With humor, humility, and hard-earned insight, Finn and Sarah model what it looks like to catch yourself in the act—and choose something healthier instead. Because recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about awareness… and doing it differently next time. Takeaways Codependency is often subtle and self-soothing, not dramatic or obvious Manipulation can hide inside “care” and good intentions Irritation is often a sign of unspoken fear or unmet needs Awareness is the first step toward changing behavior Recovery means taking responsibility for your emotional experience—not outsourcing it Notable Resources Dr. Sarah Michaud, Author of Co CrazyFollow @leavingcrazytown on YouTubeWebsite: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ If you loved this conversation, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown—and share it with a friend ready to reclaim their voice and leave confusion behind. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    9 min

  5. FEB 17

    When Sobriety Isn’t Enough: Patti Clark on Relapse, Loneliness & Coming Home

    Episode Description What happens when you’ve done “everything right” in recovery — and it still isn’t enough? In this deeply honest conversation,  Dr. Sarah sits down with author Patti Clark to explore long-term sobriety, relapse after 13 years, emotional bottoms, motherhood shame, loneliness, and the quiet moments that can pull us back into addiction. Patti shares the raw truth behind her relapse, the power of connection, and why recovery is about becoming whole — not perfect. Takeaways Why relapse often begins long before the drink How loneliness can become an emotional bottom The hidden shame many mothers carry in addiction and recovery Why connection — not discipline — sustains sobriety How creativity and writing can support emotional healing Key Timestamps 01:00 Patti’s recovery origin story and family alcoholism 11:00Loneliness, disconnection, and leaving meetings 13:00Relapsing after 13 years sober 18:00Motherhood, shame, and hidden drinking 24:00Emotional bottoms and forgiveness 37:00Writing The Recovery Road Trip and “now what?” recovery Notable Resources & Guest Links The Recovery Road Trip by Patti Clark Website: https://pattyclark.org TikTok: @recoveringwoman Instagram/Facebook: Patti Clark, Author If this episode resonated, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown — and share it with someone navigating recovery, relapse, or emotional burnout. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    45 min

  6. FEB 10

    “I’m Fine” Is a Lie: Why Asking for Help Feels So Hard

    How often do you say “I’m fine” when you’re anything but? In this episode of Leaving CrazyTown, Finn and Dr. Sarah unpack the many meanings behind those two deceptively simple words—and why asking for help can feel harder than suffering in silence. With humor, honesty, and lived recovery wisdom, they explore what makes some requests easy, others terrifying, and how emotional pain often hides behind self-sufficiency. This conversation is for anyone learning how to name their needs without shame and step out of survival mode. Key Takeaways “I’m fine” is often a protective shield—not the truth Asking for help feels easier when it benefits others, not ourselves Illness and emotional pain trigger deep autonomy and boundary issues Recovery trains us to ask for help—but only in specific lanes Emotional honesty requires safety, timing, and trust Key Timestamps [00:01] What “I’m fine” really stands for [00:03] Why service-based asks feel safer [00:05] Illness, isolation, and control [00:07] Emotional pain and selective vulnerability [00:09] The recovery paradox: trained to ask, still afraid Notable Resources Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube If this episode hit close to home, subscribe, rate, and share it with someone who’s tired of pretending they’re fine. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    15 min

  7. FEB 3

    Clear Communication, Fewer Resentments: A Holiday Survival Review

    The holidays have a way of turning up the volume on codependency — expectations, guilt, fear of disappointing others, and the pressure to “just make it work.” In this honest holiday wrap-up, Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud review what actually helped, what didn’t, and how clear communication became the difference between resentment and relief. From navigating COVID plans to managing adult kids’ expectations, this episode offers real-life examples of boundaries in action — imperfect, human, and effective.Takeaways Clear communication prevents resentment — even when it feels uncomfortable Being honest about what you want doesn’t make you selfish Boundaries work best when you release the need to control others’ reactions Avoiding discomfort creates long-term emotional “ick” Holidays don’t require self-abandonment to be meaningful Key Timestamps [00:01:00] Why being “wishy-washy” fuels codependency [00:02:30] Navigating COVID, family expectations, and guilt [00:04:00] Saying what you want without managing others’ feelings [00:06:30] Holiday spirals and parental guilt [00:07:30] Choosing clarity over emotional chaos Notable Resources Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ If this episode resonated, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s still unpacking their holiday “stuff.” Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.

    13 min

  8. JAN 27

    Ironman, Cancer and Courage: Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds Story

    Episode Description What happens when peak physical endurance collides with life-altering diagnosis? In this powerful episode of Leaving CrazyTown, Dr. Sarah Michaud sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds—nonprofit CEO, Ironman triathlete, and two-time cancer survivor—to unpack what it really means to do hard things. Jeffrey shares how endurance training prepared him for cancer treatment, how vulnerability reshaped his relationships, and why strength isn’t about avoiding fear—it’s about learning to run alongside it. This is an honest, grounded conversation about mortality, resilience, masculinity, and choosing presence over panic. Key Takeaways Why fitness is not the same as health How endurance training builds emotional grit—not just physical stamina The hidden cost (and gift) of vulnerability, especially for men What cancer teaches us about priorities, presence, and legacy Why letting people help you is sometimes a gift to them Key Timestamps 02:00 – From a spontaneous 5K to Ironman training08:00 – “I did Ironman with cancer”14:00 – Fitness vs. health: an important distinction23:00 – Vulnerability, masculinity, and male friendships37:00 – Rest, burnout, and rethinking productivity41:00 – Legacy, meaning, and what truly mattersNotable Resources & Links Book: Every Mile Matters by Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds Website: EveryMileMatters.com Author Site: JeffreyReynolds.com If this episode resonated, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown—and share it with someone facing something hard. Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown

    42 min
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5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Welcome to Leaving CrazyTown, a Podcast and YouTube channel by Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen. They help navigate life's ups and downs, including codependency. With personal experiences and mental health expertise, they offer insights and strategies to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Episodes cover anxiety, depression, relationships, and self-improvement. This podcast is for anyone seeking guidance to improve mental health and well-being. Join Leaving CrazyTown and start your journey to a happier, healthier life.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    86
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen
  • Show Website
    Leaving CrazyTown

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