Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Bleav
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

”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. Jacintha Field on Helping Kids Regulate Big Feelings After Trauma

    6D AGO

    Jacintha Field on Helping Kids Regulate Big Feelings After Trauma

    When life cracked wide open during COVID, separation, solo parenting, and her son’s emotional dysregulation, Jacintha Field didn’t just survive it — she turned it into a mission. In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles talk with Jacintha about trauma, parenting, emotional literacy, and how helping kids feel safe starts with learning to be kinder to ourselves. Awards & Downloads Line 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 Link Line We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Every part of you is welcome. Every big feeling has a place.” — Inspired by Jacintha Field Episode Description When Jacintha Field’s son started school during COVID, her world was already upside down. She was navigating a brutal separation, solo parenting, and the emotional fallout of a child who didn’t yet have the words or tools to explain what was happening inside. His outbursts were intense. Her heart was breaking. And with child mental health waitlists stretching six to twelve months, Jacintha did what so many parents do when there are no easy answers — she went looking for them herself. In this deeply honest episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jacintha, a Family and Child Counselor, Art Therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, to talk about trauma, parenting, sobriety, self-compassion, and the messy beauty of learning as you go. Jacintha shares how surviving domestic violence, getting sober, and rebuilding her life helped her understand that healing is not about being perfect. It is about repairing the rupture, naming the feeling, and choosing connection over shame. This conversation is for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone who has ever wondered, “Am I messing this up?” Jacintha reminds us that kids do not need perfect adults. They need safe ones. And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can say is, “I’m here. We’re a team. We’ll figure this out together.” Keywords: child mental health, emotional regulation, trauma healing, parenting support, self-regulation for kids, emotional literacy, solo parenting, domestic violence recovery, sober healing, mindful parenting, play therapy, child anxiety, family counseling, resilience, Happy Souls Kids. Meet Our Guest — Jacintha Field Jacintha Field is a Family and Child Counselor, Art Therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, a global mental health platform helping children ages 5–12 regulate big feelings through storytelling, gamified tools, and the voices of athletes and role models they admire. After surviving domestic violence, emotional burnout, and solo parenting through her son’s anxiety and dysregulation, Jacintha turned her lived experience into a mission to help 100,000 children by 2027. Website: https://www.happysoulskids.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16633spBm7 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacinthafield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinthafield TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jacinthafield Key Takeaways Kids are not “bad” when they have big emotions — they are often overwhelmed and asking for safety in the only way they know how. Self-compassion is not optional in parenting. The kinder we are to ourselves, the safer we can become for our children. Emotional literacy starts small: naming feelings, drawing them, talking about them, and giving kids space to understand what is happening inside. Connection comes before correction. Sometimes a game of Uno does more healing than a lecture ever could. Parents do not have to be perfect. Repair, accountability, and honesty matter more than pretending everything is fine. Healing after trauma can become service, purpose, and something beautiful — but only after we let ourselves move through the mud. Actionable Items When your child has a big feeling, pause and ask: “What emotion might be underneath this behavior?” before reacting. Try Jacintha’s circle exercise: draw a circle on paper and ask your child to draw how they feel inside it. Practice repair after rupture. Try saying, “That was my big feeling coming out. I’m sorry. Can we try that again?” References Mentioned The Red Beast: Controlling Anger in Children with Asperger’s Syndrome — a children’s book that Jacintha referenced as a helpful tool for talking about anger and emotional regulation. Happy Souls Kids: https://www.happysoulskids.com Raw with Jay Podcast — Jacintha’s podcast focused on real, honest conversations for parents and emotional healing. Important Chapters 00:00:37 – Welcome to the Episode G-Rex and Dirty Skittles introduce the show and welcome Jacintha Field, also known as Jay, from Australia. 00:02:04 – COVID, Separation, and Her Son’s Big Feelings Jacintha shares how her son’s intense outbursts during COVID and separation became the catalyst for her work in child counseling and emotional regulation. 00:04:51 – Self-Compassion and Parenting Through Tantrums Jacintha explains how learning to be patient with herself helped her respond more compassionately to her son’s big emotions. 00:06:47 – Therapy, Separation, and Rebuilding Jacintha opens up about attending 26 psychology sessions in one year and how support helped her move through the mud of separation. 00:14:26 – Naming Emotions and Being Real With Kids Jacintha talks about showing up authentically with her child, naming emotions, and letting kids know every feeling has a place. 00:18:04 – Tools for Helping Kids Express Feelings Jacintha shares practical tools like drawing emotions, breaking down the story behind the feeling, and helping children problem-solve without jumping in to fix everything. 00:19:29 – Connection Before Correction Jacintha explains why children need connection, play, and emotional safety before they can respond well to guidance. 00:24:44 – Winning, Learning, and Repairing Ruptures Jacintha talks about reframing failure, emotional dysregulation, and why repairing after a hard moment matters so much. 00:30:58 – Advice to Her Younger Self Jacintha shares what she would tell her younger self: that she is worthy, valid, and never too much. 00:35:43 – Happy Souls Kids and How to Connect Jacintha shares how listeners can find Happy Souls Kids, join beta testing, and connect with her work. 00:37:42 – Final Message for Parents Jacintha leaves listeners with a reminder to be kind to themselves because every parent is doing the best they can. Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ChildMentalHealth #EmotionalRegulation #BigFeelings #TraumaHealing #ParentingSupport #MindfulParenting #SoloParenting #DomesticViolenceRecovery #SoberHealing #SelfRegulation #EmotionalLiteracy #PlayTherapy #ChildAnxiety #ResilientKids #HappySoulsKids *************************************************************************** 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.

    39 min
  2. Kathryn Henry Turns Grief Into Another F*cking Growth Opportunity

    MAY 14

    Kathryn Henry Turns Grief Into Another F*cking Growth Opportunity

    Kathryn M. Henry joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles for a raw, beautiful, and deeply human conversation about grief, love, resilience, spirituality, and learning how to keep living after losing the person you thought you’d grow old with. Through her memoir A Dime to Say I Love You, Kathryn reminds us that even the heaviest moments can become another f*cking growth opportunity when we meet them with honesty, humor, and self-compassion. Awards & Downloads Line 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 Link Line We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Trigger Notice + 988 Crisis Reminder This episode includes conversations about grief, childhood abuse, suicide attempts, suicidal ideation, cancer, and loss. Please take care of yourself while listening. If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You are loved, wanted, and needed here. Mental Health Quote “You’re good enough, and you don’t have to prove anything to anybody.” — Kathryn M. Henry Episode Description Grief can knock the air right out of you, but Kathryn M. Henry shows us that even the most painful chapters can hold love, wisdom, and one hell of a growth opportunity. In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Kathryn, author of A Dime to Say I Love You, to talk about losing her wife Lisa, finding spiritual meaning after death, and learning how to keep showing up when life feels impossible. Kathryn shares the story behind the dimes she and Lisa left for each other as tiny reminders of love. After Lisa’s transition following a decade-long cancer journey, those “dime moments” became something even deeper: signs of connection, comfort, and the belief that love does not simply disappear. Together, they talk about resilience, childhood trauma, suicide survival, spirituality, vulnerability, self-love, and the kind of healing that does not come wrapped in perfection. Kathryn also opens up about writing her memoir, living in integrity, and bringing her whole self into every room, from personal relationships to corporate leadership. This episode is for anyone walking through grief, questioning their purpose, rebuilding after trauma, or trying to find joy again without pretending everything is fine. Keywords: mental health podcast, grief healing, emotional wellness, suicide prevention, spiritual healing, resilience, self-love, LGBTQ mental health, trauma recovery, conscious leadership, grief support, vulnerability, personal growth, healing after loss, finding joy Meet Our Guest — Kathryn M. Henry Kathryn M. Henry is a writer, spiritual seeker, business leader, and author of A Dime to Say I Love You, a bold memoir that blends intimate storytelling with meditation, reflection, and personal growth practices. After a global career leading technology, operations, and people development at brands including Gap, Levi’s, and Lululemon, Kathryn now works at the intersection of leadership, inner life, social impact, and healing. Her story matters because she reminds us that grief does not have to harden us; it can open us. Website: https://kathrynmhenry.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathryn.m.henry Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathryn.henry.94 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrykathryn Media and speaking inquiries: katmbueno@gmail.com Key Takeaways Grief is not something we “get over.” It becomes part of how we learn to live, love, and grow. Kathryn’s “dime moments” show how signs of love can appear in small, powerful, and deeply personal ways. Resilience is built by surviving what we thought would break us and realizing we are still here. Vulnerability helps us connect in ways that polished perfection never could. Self-love means choosing practices, people, and boundaries that help us stay grounded. Living in integrity means showing up as the same whole person in every room. Actionable Items Look for your own “dime moments” — the small signs, memories, symbols, or reminders that help you feel connected to love. When life hands you another f*cking growth opportunity, pause before beating yourself up and ask, “What can I learn here?” Choose one grounding practice this week, like music, nature, meditation, journaling, movement, or calling someone who helps you feel safe. References Mentioned A Dime to Say I Love You by Kathryn M. Henry 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org Global crisis resources: https://findahelpline.com Gayatri Mantra by Deva Premal Michael Bublé Stoic philosophy Buddhism Hinduism Meditation and contemplative practices Important Chapters 00:00:37 – Welcome and episode introduction 00:01:38 – Kathryn introduces A Dime to Say I Love You 00:03:18 – The meaning behind Kathryn and Lisa’s “dime moments.” 00:05:11 – Why Kathryn uses the word “transition.” 00:06:20 – Signs from loved ones after loss 00:07:33 – Writing the book to honor Lisa and help others 00:10:06 – Another F*cking Growth Opportunity 00:12:49 – How resilience is built through hard moments 00:16:57 – Choosing joy and holding onto hope 00:19:26 – Vulnerability, self-love, and real connection 00:21:02 – The practices that keep Kathryn grounded 00:26:38 – Sharing trauma, grief, and suicide survival 00:30:10 – Kathryn’s spiritual path and healing practices 00:33:17 – Turning brokenness into hope 00:40:06 – Living in integrity in every room 00:46:03 – Kathryn’s advice to her younger self 00:46:36 – Learning that life gives no guarantees 00:47:51 – Music as a grounding tool 00:49:03 – Kathryn’s spirit animal 00:49:44 – How to connect with Kathryn Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #GriefHealing #GriefSupport #EmotionalWellness #Resilience #SelfLoveJourney #TraumaRecovery #SuicidePrevention #SpiritualHealing #HealingAfterLoss #LGBTQMentalHealth #VulnerabilityIsStrength #PersonalGrowth #ChooseJoy #ConsciousLeadership #ADimeToSayILoveYou *************************************************************************** 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.

    53 min
  3. Unarmed: Joe Smarro on First Responder Mental Health

    MAY 12

    Unarmed: Joe Smarro on First Responder Mental Health

    Joe Smarro walked away from a Marine uniform, a badge, and a gun belt that almost ended his life, and walked straight into the work of healing himself and the first responders nobody else was checking on. This conversation is about what it really takes to take off the mask, do the work, and become the kind of human who gives other people permission to do the same.   Awards & Downloads Brought to you by the 2024 and 2026 award-winning podcast Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, a 2026 Women Podcasters Awards nominee in the Mindset and Mental Health category and honored among the Influential Women 2026 Women of the Year, with 4.5 million plus downloads across 160 plus countries and counting in Season 17. Feedback Link We'd love to hear what landed for you in this episode. Leave us a voice or text note here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote "There's so much freedom on the other side of your suffering. There's so much freedom on the other side of your fear." Joe Smarro Episode Description Joe Smarro is a Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Officer, co-founder of one of the country's first Mental Health Units, and the kind of man who'll tell you exactly how close he came to not being here. In this episode, Joe sits down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share the story behind his Emmy-winning HBO documentary Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops, his book Unarmed, and the moment he chose therapy over the gun belt sitting next to him. This is a raw, hopeful, and surprisingly funny conversation about childhood trauma, an ACES score of nine, PTSD, persistent depressive disorder, and the addiction patterns that ran his life until he stopped running from himself. Joe shares why he believes therapy is a relationship, and most people just haven't found the right partner yet, why he started attending SLAA meetings at 44, and why he gets up every day, names his alarm clock with affirmations, and practices three points of reflection before his feet hit the floor. If you've ever worn a mask so tight you forgot what your real face felt like, this one's for you. Joe gives men, first responders, veterans, and anyone with a hard story permission to stop pretending and start healing. We talk masculine vulnerability, suicide prevention, scars versus scabs, the "selfish AF" approach to wellness, radical self-responsibility, and what it actually looks like to live on the other side of trauma. Keywords: first responder mental health, PTSD recovery, veteran mental health, suicide prevention, childhood trauma, ACES score, Joe Smarro, Unarmed book, Ernie and Joe Crisis Cops, masculine vulnerability, de-escalation, police mental health, trauma healing, therapy for men, addiction recovery Meet Our Guest Joe Smarro is a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Officer, co-founder of the SAPD Mental Health Unit, TEDx speaker, and bestselling Author of Unarmed: De-escalation Techniques to Cultivate Courage, Compassion, and Connection and 12 Laws of Maximizing the Human Experience. He's the founder and CEO of SolutionPoint+, a national consulting firm focused on mental wellness, resiliency, and crisis response training for first responders, public safety, public transit, and corporate clients. When he's not on stage or in a hotel somewhere in North America, you'll find him on the golf course. Connect with Joe: Website: https://www.joesmarro.com Company: https://www.solutionpointplus.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joesmarro Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josephsmarro Documentary: Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops on HBO Max Key Takeaways Share from a scar, not a scab. Healing first, then teaching. Joe waited until his wounds had closed before he started talking about them publicly, and that's why his story actually helps people. Therapy is a relationship, not a one-time experiment. If the first therapist didn't fit, that doesn't mean therapy doesn't work. It means you haven't found your person yet. "Selfish AF" is not a personality flaw. It's self-awareness, self-love, and self-care so you can actually show up for the people you love. Take radical responsibility for the life you're living now. Bad things happened to you, and they weren't your fault. What you do with them today is. Hope and curiosity keep you moving. Not motivation. Not hustle. Curiosity about what life looks like on the other side of the work. Actionable Items Build your own three points of reflection. Each morning, ask yourself where you are, why you're there, and who contributed to you being there. Find three new things you're grateful for every day, and they cannot repeat. This forces you to hunt for the good rather than run on autopilot. Identify the biggest fear holding you back right now and take one small step toward it this week. References Mentioned Book: Unarmed by Joe Smarro, available at https://www.joesmarro.com Documentary: Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops on HBO Max TEDx Talk: "I See You" by Joe Smarro on YouTube SLAA (Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous): https://slaafws.org Important Chapters 00:00 Welcome 02:15 Childhood trauma and the mask 05:04 Behind the book Unarmed 09:05 The gun belt moment 13:22 First SLAA meeting at 44 16:20 Speed dating your therapist 24:21 Joe's morning ritual 29:42 Selfish AF 35:10 Nobody is coming to save you 42:56 Where to find Joe Closing CTA If this episode moved you, sat heavy on you, or made you finally pick up the phone, we want to know. Leave us a review or share your story at https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews. Listen on your favorite platform or on our website at https://www.goesoninourheads.net. Your story might be the one that unlocks somebody else's prison. #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #JoeSmarro #Unarmed #FirstResponderMentalHealth #PTSDRecovery #SuicidePrevention #VeteranMentalHealth #TraumaHealing #PoliceWellness #MasculineVulnerability #ACES #CrisisCops #BreakTheStigma #TherapyWorks #SelfishAF #HealingTrauma #STGOIOH *************************************************************************** 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.

    45 min
  4. Part 2: Deane’s Healing: Hypnosis, the Subconscious Mind, and Taking It Back

    MAY 7

    Part 2: Deane’s Healing: Hypnosis, the Subconscious Mind, and Taking It Back

    What if healing is not about going back and reliving everything that hurt you? In Part 2, Deane shares how hypnosis helped him change the way his mind responds and how that changed everything. Awards & Downloads Line 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 Link Line We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You don’t have to relive your trauma to heal it. You just need a new way to respond.” — Deane Benninghoven A Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth Burnout is real. So is the moment when you finally slow down. Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just crash. If you spend most of your time taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care too. Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off. Episode Description This is where things start to make sense. In Part 2, Deane explains how hypnosis works in a way that feels practical and grounded. No gimmicks. No loss of control. Just a better understanding of how your mind actually operates. Anxiety is not random. It is learned. It is your brain trying to protect you based on past experiences. The problem is that those responses do not always match your life today. That is where people get stuck. Deane walks through how hypnosis helps you access the subconscious mind, where those patterns live. He also shares simple tools, like creating an anchor, that can help you interrupt anxiety in the moment and start building a different response. This part of the conversation is about taking your power back. Not in a loud or dramatic way. In a steady, repeatable way that actually works over time. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles ask the questions people are already thinking. What if it does not work? What if you have tried before? What if you feel stuck? The answer is not perfection. It is practice. Part 2 shows that healing is not about becoming someone new. It is about finally working with the mind you already have. Keywords: Deane Benninghoven, hypnosis, hypnotherapy, subconscious mind, anxiety relief, trauma healing, emotional regulation, self-hypnosis, behavior change, nervous system, mental health tools, healing journey Meet Our Guest — Deane Benninghoven Deane Benninghoven is a hypnotherapist and the founder of Summit Hypnosis NW. He specializes in helping people work through anxiety, chronic pain, and trauma by addressing subconscious patterns. His approach is practical, collaborative, and grounded in real-life experience. Website: https://www.summithnosisnw.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summithnosisnw/ Key Takeaways Hypnosis works by accessing the part of the mind where patterns are stored Anxiety is often a learned response, not a permanent condition You do not need to relive trauma to heal from it Simple tools can help regulate emotions in real time Repetition is what creates lasting change Healing is about building new responses, not just understanding old ones Actionable Items Create a simple grounding action you can use during stress Practice reconnecting with a positive memory and how it feels Think about the version of yourself you want to become and take one step toward it References Mentioned Summit Hypnosis NW https://www.summithnosisnw.com/ Important Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Part 2 00:01:00 Anxiety explained 00:03:00 Anchors and emotional regulation 00:06:00 Healing without reliving trauma 00:10:00 Subconscious patterns 00:15:00 Everyday use of hypnosis 00:20:00 Working with kids 00:25:00 Advice to younger self 00:35:00 Closing Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #Hypnotherapy #SubconsciousMind #AnxietyRelief #TraumaHealing #EmotionalRegulation #SelfHypnosis #MindBodyConnection #HealingTools #PersonalGrowth #MentalWellness *************************************************************************** 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.

    40 min
  5. Part 1: Deane’s Story: Trauma, Chronic Pain, and Losing Control

    MAY 5

    Part 1: Deane’s Story: Trauma, Chronic Pain, and Losing Control

    What happens when your body stops cooperating, and your life starts slipping through your hands? G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Deane to talk about chronic pain, trauma, and what it feels like when everything you built no longer works. Awards & Downloads Line 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 Link Line We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “I didn’t see a way forward… until I found even the smallest glimmer of hope.” — Deane Benninghoven A Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth Burnout is real. So is the moment when you finally slow down. Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just collapse at the end of a long day. If you spend most of your time taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care too. Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off. Episode Description Before anything started to get better, things got really dark. In Part 1, Deane shares what it was like to go from building a life as an artist to losing control of his body after a serious car accident. The pain was constant. It was intense. And like many people, he was pushed toward opioids as the answer. That path only made things worse. This conversation goes beyond physical pain. Deane talks about growing up with abuse, carrying anger for years, and dealing with the kind of internal voice that tells you there is no way forward. When you lose your identity, your purpose, and your ability to function the way you used to, it messes with everything. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles don’t rush past that. They sit in it with him. Because this is the part most people skip. The part where you feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure if anything will actually help. But a shift is starting here. Not a big breakthrough yet. Just a moment of curiosity. A small opening. Part 1 is about telling the truth about what it feels like to be at your lowest. Because you cannot heal what you refuse to look at. Keywords: Deane Benninghoven, trauma, chronic pain, depression, opioid recovery, anxiety, childhood trauma, mental health podcast, emotional healing, identity loss, mental health awareness, healing journey Meet Our Guest — Deane Benninghoven Deane Benninghoven is a hypnotherapist and the founder of Summit Hypnosis NW. He helps people work through chronic pain, anxiety, and trauma by focusing on the subconscious patterns that drive those experiences. His work is rooted in his own journey through pain, addiction, and recovery. Website: https://www.summithypnosisnw.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summithnosisnw/ Key Takeaways Chronic pain is not just physical. It is connected to emotional and mental patterns Trauma can shape how you see yourself long before you realize it Quick fixes like medication do not always solve deeper issues The way you talk to yourself matters more than you think Change can start with something small, even just curiosity Actionable Items Pay attention to your internal dialogue during hard moments Be honest about what you are feeling instead of pushing it down Stay open to different approaches to healing References Mentioned Therapeutic hypnosis for pain management Important Chapters 00:00 Welcome and introduction 00:02:00 The accident and what changed 00:04:00 Living with chronic pain 00:06:30 Depression and identity loss 00:08:30 Childhood trauma and belief systems 00:12:00 Discovering hypnosis 00:18:00 Pain and the subconscious Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ChronicPain #TraumaHealing #DepressionSupport #OpioidRecovery #AnxietyAwareness #HealingJourney #EmotionalWellness #MentalHealthMatters #SubconsciousMind #PainManagement *************************************************************************** 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.

    36 min
  6. Shari B. Kaplan on Anxiety, Pain, and the Truth About Plant-Based Healing

    APR 30

    Shari B. Kaplan on Anxiety, Pain, and the Truth About Plant-Based Healing

    What if anxiety and pain are not problems to eliminate, but signals your body is trying to send you? In part two, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles continue the conversation with Shari B. Kaplan and get real about plant-based healing, nervous system balance, and taking back control of your health. 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 Link Line We would love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You can use the medicine, but you still have to show up and change your life.” — Shari B. Kaplan Community Spotlight and Sponsor Support Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards We have been nominated for the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset and Mental Health category. If this podcast has helped you, we would appreciate your support. Vote here: https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards-voting Voting is open through April 30th at 6 PM PST One vote per person. Duplicate votes will not count. A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth Burnout is real, and so is the moment when you finally slow down. Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just crash. If you are always taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care, too. Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off. Episode Description In part two, Shari B. Kaplan breaks down one of the most talked-about and misunderstood topics in mental health right now, plant-based healing. From cannabis to herbal medicine, she explains how these tools can support anxiety, pain, and overall balance in the body when they are used intentionally. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles bring their own experiences into the conversation, sharing what it is like to live with anxiety and chronic pain, and how they have navigated different approaches to treatment. What stands out most is the reminder that no tool works on its own. Real healing requires participation. Movement matters. Breathing matters. Awareness matters. They also talk about humor, how it can interrupt negative thinking, and why learning to shift your internal dialogue can change how you experience your day. If you are curious about natural approaches to mental health or looking for new ways to manage anxiety and pain, this episode gives you practical insight in a way that feels real and grounded. Keywords: Shari B. Kaplan, anxiety relief, plant medicine, cannabis for mental health, chronic pain, holistic healing, endocannabinoid system, natural remedies, emotional healing, trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, alternative medicine Meet Our Guest — Shari B. Kaplan Shari B. Kaplan, LCSW, is an integrative mental health and trauma specialist and the founder of Cannectd Wellness, where she combines psychotherapy, plant medicine, and holistic approaches to support long-term healing. Website: https://www.cannectd.com Meet Shari: https://www.cannectd.com/meet-sharibkaplan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharibkaplan/ Instagram (Cannectd): https://www.instagram.com/cannectd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shari-b-kaplan-lcsw-180b1682 Key Takeaways Anxiety and pain are signals from the body Plant medicine works best when combined with daily habits Balance in the body supports healing Humor can shift your mindset quickly You have more control over your healing than you think Actionable Items Start low and go slow if exploring plant-based options where legal Move your body daily, even in small ways Create a simple “joy trigger” that helps reset your mood   Important Chapters 00:00 – Reframing negative self-talk 08:00 – Finding joy in small moments 18:00 – Plant-based medicine explained 28:00 – Anxiety, pain, and cannabis 40:00 – Movement and healing 50:00 – Final reflections Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #AnxietyRelief #PlantMedicine #CannabisEducation #ChronicPainRelief #HolisticHealing #NaturalMentalHealth #HealingJourney #MindBodyConnection #AlternativeMedicine *************************************************************************** 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.

    52 min
  7. How Shari B. Kaplan Turned Trauma into Purpose Through Holistic Mental Health

    APR 28

    How Shari B. Kaplan Turned Trauma into Purpose Through Holistic Mental Health

    What if the hardest moments in your life were not breaking you, but shaping you? In part one, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Shari B. Kaplan to talk about trauma, identity, and what it really takes to reconnect with yourself. 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 Link Line We would love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Remember who the f**k you are, because healing starts when you reconnect with yourself.” — Shari B. Kaplan Community Spotlight and Sponsor Support Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards We have been nominated for the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset and Mental Health category. This one means a lot. What started as real, sometimes messy conversations has grown into a space where people feel seen, heard, and a little less alone. That only happened because of you. If this podcast has ever helped you feel understood, even for a moment, we would truly appreciate your vote. Vote here: https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards-voting Voting is open through April 30th at 6 PM PST How to vote: Click the link Select the vote button Complete the form Only one vote per person and email is allowed, and duplicates will not count. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth We talk a lot on this show about burnout, anxiety, and carrying too much for too long. Cozy Earth is about what happens when you finally slow down, when you finally get a moment to breathe. Their robes and slippers are designed to feel like they exhale at the end of a long day. Soft, simple, and made for real life. Think about the people in your life who give everything. When was the last time they felt taken care of? This is your reminder that comfort matters, and you deserve it too. Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off. Episode Description Shari B. Kaplan does not just talk about healing; she has lived it, worked through it, and built her life around helping others do the same. In this first part of a two-part conversation, she sits down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how early life experiences, including head trauma and personal challenges, shaped the way she understands mental health today. From discovering meditation at a young age to navigating dyslexia, performance pressure, and difficult life decisions, Shari walks us through the moments that changed everything. What stands out most is her belief that we have more choice than we think, even when life feels overwhelming. This episode also challenges the way most people think about meditation. It is not about sitting still or clearing your mind. It is about finding something that works for your brain, your body, and your reality. The conversation also gets real about therapy. How do you find the right person? What questions should you ask? And why does the right fit matter so much? If you have ever felt disconnected, stuck, or unsure where to start, this episode brings it back to something simple. Start where you are, stay curious, and give yourself permission to figure it out. Keywords: Shari B. Kaplan, trauma healing, holistic mental health, meditation, ADHD, emotional healing, mind body connection, therapy, nervous system regulation, self awareness, mental wellness, identity, healing journey, mindfulness Meet Our Guest — Shari B. Kaplan Shari B. Kaplan, LCSW, is an integrative mental health and trauma specialist and the founder of Cannectd Wellness, a holistic mental health and plant medicine center in Florida. With more than 30 years of experience, she blends psychotherapy, trauma protocols, plant medicine, and mind-body practices to support full mind-body-spirit healing. Website: https://www.cannectd.com Meet Shari: https://www.cannectd.com/meet-sharibkaplan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharibkaplan/ Instagram (Cannectd): https://www.instagram.com/cannectd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shari-b-kaplan-lcsw-180b1682 Key Takeaways Healing starts when you reconnect with who you are Meditation should work for your brain, not against it Trauma lives in the body, but so does healing You have more control over your day than you think The right therapist can change everything Actionable Items Try different styles of meditation until something feels right Set one intention each morning for how you want your day to feel Talk to more than one therapist before choosing who to work with Important Chapters 00:00 – Meet Shari B. Kaplan 03:00 – Early trauma and discovering meditation 10:00 – Rethinking meditation for ADHD 18:00 – Finding the right therapist 25:00 – Setting intentions and mindset 35:00 – Responding instead of reacting Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #TraumaHealing #HolisticMentalHealth #MeditationPractice #ADHDAwareness #MindBodyHealing #EmotionalWellness #TherapyJourney #HealingTools #MentalWellness *************************************************************************** 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.

    43 min
  8. The Invisible Rulebook

    APR 24 ·  BONUS

    The Invisible Rulebook

    What happens when you’re doing everything “right”… but it still feels wrong? In this powerful podcast swap, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles bring you Renee Swanson from The Covert Narcissism Podcast as she breaks down the invisible rules that quietly shape toxic relationships—and why none of it was ever your fault. Awards & Downloads Line 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 Link Line We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Healthy relationships do not require you to memorize a rulebook just to exist.” — Renee Swanson Episode Description This episode hits differently—and that’s intentional. As part of a podcast swap, we’re sharing an episode from Renee Swanson, host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast, and it’s one that puts words to something so many people feel but struggle to explain. Renee dives deep into what she calls “the invisible rulebook”—the unspoken, ever-changing expectations that shape unhealthy relationships. These aren’t normal compromises or shared agreements. These are confusing, often contradictory rules that leave you constantly second-guessing yourself, walking on eggshells, and feeling like you’re always getting it wrong… even when no one ever told you what “right” was. Through real stories from her community, Renee highlights how these dynamics show up in everyday life—what seems small on the surface becomes a source of tension, blame, or control. Over time, this creates a cycle of hypervigilance, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion. What makes this conversation so powerful is the clarity it brings. It’s not about the rules themselves—it’s about the environment they create. A lack of mutual respect, flexibility, and emotional safety slowly erodes your sense of self. This episode is a reminder that if something feels off, there’s a reason. And more importantly, it’s not you. Keywords: covert narcissism, invisible rules, emotional abuse, toxic relationships, self-doubt, gaslighting, relationship anxiety, boundaries, emotional manipulation, mental health awareness, healing journey, self-trust, trauma recovery, personal growth Meet the Host — Renee Swanson Renee Swanson is the host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast and a coach dedicated to helping individuals understand and heal from emotionally manipulative and narcissistic relationship dynamics. Through her work, she brings clarity to confusion and empowers people to rebuild trust in themselves after years of self-doubt. Website: https://covertnarcissism.com/ Key Takeaways The problem isn’t the “rules”—it’s the environment they create Feeling like you’re always wrong is often a conditioned response, not reality Control in toxic relationships often hides in small, everyday interactions Double standards are a major red flag in unhealthy dynamics Self-doubt grows when you’re constantly managing someone else’s reactions Healthy relationships allow space for two humans to exist without shrinking   Actionable Items When you feel self-doubt, ask: “Are the expectations clear—or constantly changing?” Practice noticing where you feel calm vs. where you feel like you’re “performing.” Remind yourself daily: “I don’t need a rulebook to exist in a healthy relationship.”   Important Chapters 00:00:00 – G-Rex introduces the podcast swap and the concept of “getting it wrong.” 00:01:07 – Renee explains the invisible rulebook and community-driven stories 00:04:00 – Why it’s not about the rules—it’s about the environment 00:07:00 – Real-life examples of no-win scenarios in relationships 00:12:00 – The emotional toll of constantly anticipating someone else’s needs 00:17:00 – Control disguised as preferences and everyday habits 00:21:00 – How small rules create long-term psychological impact 00:23:00 – The erosion of identity and confidence over time 00:24:40 – The truth: you were never the problem 00:25:00 – What healthy relationships actually look like   Closing CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CovertNarcissism #ToxicRelationships #EmotionalAbuseRecovery #GaslightingAwareness #SelfTrust #HealingJourney #BoundariesMatter #RelationshipDynamics #EmotionalWellbeing #TraumaHealing #PodcastSwap #SelfWorth #MentalHealthEducation *************************************************************************** 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.

    28 min
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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
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    203
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads
  • Show Website
    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads