Leaving CrazyTown

Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen
  • 4.8 (20)
  • Self-Improvement
  • 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. 7h ago

    Understanding Emotional Activation in Codependency

    Why do minor comments from friends or partners trigger overwhelming physical anger and panic inside your chest? Dr. Sarah Michaud explains emotional activation, defining it as an extreme physical reaction to a minor present event that connects directly to unhealed childhood wounds. She shares personal experiences of feeling dismissed while pitching her book and traces that intense anger back to growing up feeling overlooked in her family home. Sarah outlines the five key reflection questions to identify what an activation is covering up, including grief, fear, and powerlessness. She details practical action steps to process these reactions, stay centered in your own life, and communicate clearly without damaging personal relationships. Key Takeaways Emotional activation shows up as a physical overreaction to minor events, signaling unaddressed pain from your past. Codependency recovery requires staying focused on your own behavior rather than reacting to what someone else says or does. Asking what a reaction reminds you of uncovers underlying sadness, fear, and unresolved grief. Acceptance of other people and self-compassion prevent temporary anger from destroying your peace of mind. Pausing to process an activation through journaling, peer support, or movement prevents impulsive relationship conflict. Resources Mentioned Co Crazy by Dr. Sarah Michaud Timestamps 00:00 Defining activation and physical reactions 01:15 Codependency, survival habits, and childhood roots 03:20 Sarah's phone call with a publishing contact 04:45 The core question: What does this remind me of? 07:15 Grieving old wounds and accepting powerlessness 09:40 Five healthy actions to reset your emotions 10:45 Taking ownership in relationships Credits Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud - Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website:https://drsarahmichaud.com/ 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters - while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms. Credits Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay Production by Podcast Impact Studios https://podcastimpactstudio.com/

  2. Oct 26

    Codependency and Coming Out with Tamar Routly

    Can a person be fiercely independent and still be trapped in codependent patterns? Dr. Sarah Michaud talks with podcast producer and author Tamar Routly about how codependent habits hide behind high independence. Tamar shares how hiding her attraction to women for ten years fueled fear and approval seeking, even after getting sober in 2012. Their conversation examines the difference between classic misconceptions of codependency and the reality of managing other people's opinions. Tamar explains the process of working through Melody Beattie's inventory questions and recognizing how passive-aggressive reactions and fear of rejection shaped her adult relationships. They discuss why concealing personal truth keeps a person weighed down, and how speaking honestly with trusted friends breaks cycles of fear. Tamar also outlines practical steps for coming out at your own pace and letting relationships adjust naturally. Key Takeaways Independent behavior can mask codependent control, manipulation, and approval seeking. Concealing sexual identity or personal truth creates an internal weight that feeds codependent anxiety. Walking through an honest behavioral inventory reveals how fear of other people's reactions dictates daily choices. Sharing secrets with one safe person at a time reduces shame and disarms anticipated rejection. Guest Bio Tamar Routly is a podcast producer, founder of Podcast Impact Studios, and author who has been in long-term recovery since 2012. Website: https://podcastimpactstudio.com/ Resources Mentioned Codependent No More Workbook by Melody Beattie Podcast Impact Studios Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Tamar's Sobriety and Early Career 04:10 Identity, Acceptance, and Denial in Recovery 06:20 Writing the Book and Uncovering Hidden Truths 09:30 Facing Fear Around Sexuality and Relationships 13:10 Why Independence Does Not Mean You Are Not Codependent 17:40 The Fear of Judgment from Others 22:15 Rewiring Internal Reactions and Assumptions 24:30 How Keeping Secrets Weighs You Down 29:20 Steps for Coming Out Safely and Honestly 32:20 Where to Find Tamar Routly Credits Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud - Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website:https://drsarahmichaud.com/ 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters - while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms. Credits Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay Production by Podcast Impact Studios https://podcastimpactstudio.com/

  3. Oct 20

    Brain Stories: Escaping Relationship Chaos

    How do the stories in your head impact your relationships?   Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud explore the unexpected dance between brain-made stories and relationship sabotage. They share personal anecdotes and practical tools to help you spot and stop the thought spirals that fuel codependency.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Learn not to act on every thought. Understand why your brain spins stories. Gain tools to seek clarity in relationships. Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.

  4. Oct 13

    Discovering Freedom in Sobriety

    Why is embracing discomfort essential to personal growth?   Dr. Sarah Michaud, Amy Liz Harrison, and Beth Lacey explore Pema Chödrön's latest book, "Another Kind of Freedom," diving into key insights on meditation, projection, and the path to emotional freedom.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Embracing discomfort can lead to personal growth and freedom. Self-awareness is critical to understanding projections and avoiding negative emotions. Meditation is a powerful tool for peace and clarity.   NOTABLE QUOTE "You do this, but be kind to yourself." — Beth Lacey   GUEST BIO Amy Liz Harrison is a writer who shares her personal journey with sobriety, offering insights and connections through her work. Beth Lacey is an adventurer currently traveling in an Airstream, exploring life's complexities and joys.   Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.

  5. Oct 6

    Recognizing Codependency Signs in Your Behavior

    Why do you lose your peace of mind in relationships?   Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, along with guest Kristen, engage in a raw conversation about the less obvious ways codependency seeps into our relationships. Through personal stories, they highlight behaviors that may go unnoticed but significantly impact your peace and well-being.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Recognize when you're losing peace of mind due to others' emotions. Explore non-violent communication as a tool to express feelings. Understand how codependency can lead to manipulation.   NOTABLE QUOTE "When we lose our peace of mind because we're making up stories about how other people are feeling, that's where the codependency really affects us." — Sarah Michaud   GUEST BIO Kristen, an advocate for emotional awareness and Finn's girlfriend, dives into vulnerability by sharing personal experiences with codependency. Her insights on non-violent communication provide practical tools for managing relationships.   Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.

  6. Sep 29

    Codependency and Receiving Help

    Why is it so hard to accept help from others?   Unpacking the emotional intricacies of receiving support, Finn and Sarah dive into the discomfort many codependent individuals face when accepting help. From personal stories of feeling trapped to discovering the balance in nurturing relationships, they explore how letting in support can transform our connections.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Struggling with receiving often ties back to personal history and upbringing. Accepting support can lead to healthier and more balanced relationships. Reflecting on why we reject help can unveil deeper self-awareness.   NOTABLE QUOTE "It's not easy to rise to the occasion to accept and receive." — Finn   Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.

  7. Sep 22

    Surviving Relationship Rollercoasters

    Why do we experience "upside-down" moments in relationships?   Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud unpack why relationships often leave us feeling bewildered and how assumptions can lead to chaos. Through Sarah's personal story, they highlight the importance of managing feelings without leaping to conclusions.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Relationships can trigger unexpected emotions. Avoid making assumptions about your partner's feelings. Communicate openly to clarify misunderstandings.   NOTABLE QUOTE "You can have two totally different experiences of the same event." — Dr. Sarah Michaud   Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.

  8. Sep 15

    Reclaiming Yourself Through Boundaries

    Are you finding it hard to say no and set boundaries for yourself?   In this episode, Dr. Sarah Michaud delves into the significance of boundary setting as a way to reclaim personal peace and prevent codependency. Through relatable stories and practical advice, listeners are equipped with tools to navigate challenging relationships and assert their needs confidently.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Boundary clarity matters; missteps often stem from fear of discomfort. Healthy, assertive communication strengthens relationships. Boundaries can be flexible and change over time.   NOTABLE QUOTE "It's about how we tolerate uncomfortable feelings." — Dr. Sarah Michaud   Connect with Us: Dr. Sarah Michaud — Author of Co Crazy Follow @leavingcrazytown on YouTube Website: https://drsarahmichaud.com/ Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay 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. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.

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4.8
out of 5
20 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
    119
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Sarah Michaud and Finn Allen
  • Show Website
    Leaving CrazyTown

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