TURTZED

Charles Turtz

TURTZED is where real stories meet deep growth. Hosted by Charles Turtz, this podcast dives deep into the moments that define us—grief, trauma, identity, coming out, rebuilding, and the wild mess of healing. Through unfiltered conversations and vulnerable solo episodes, TURTZED helps you own your story, find your voice, and build a life aligned with who you really are. From navigating mental health and family wounds to rediscovering self-worth and purpose, each episode explores the bridge between surviving and truly living. Whether you’re unpacking your past, questioning everything, or chasing clarity in your career or relationships, this space is for you. No fluff. Just truth, growth, and the kind of talk that hits deep.

  1. MAR 25

    Andrew Cavanaugh: Marine Corps Veteran Mental Health & Overcoming PTSD | Ep. 61

    What happens when the "stoic hero" identity you’ve built your life around is shattered by a single medical diagnosis? For many, the transition from the front lines to civilian life is a silent battle against an invisible enemy that doesn't follow the rules of engagement. Marine Corps Veteran Mental Health is more than just a clinical term; it is a raw, lived experience of navigating the heavy "backpack" of trauma long after the uniform is put away. In this episode, Andrew Cavanaugh shares his profound transformation from a 9/11-inspired enlistee to a combat veteran grappling with a chronic PTSD diagnosis. He reveals the specific "method to the madness" of Marine Corps training and the pivotal moment a simple question from his wife shifted his perspective from a lens of destruction to one of humanity. Listeners will discover how to reframe their own "lived experience" and find the courage to prioritize human connection over stoic isolation How to Transition from Combat Stoicism to Emotional HealingThe military trains individuals to push down fear to accomplish the mission, but this survival mechanism can become a barrier in civilian life. Learning to "unpack the backpack" of trauma requires moving past the stoic mask to address the deep-seated emotions that were deferred during active duty. The Impact of a Chronic PTSD Diagnosis on IdentityBeing labeled with a disorder by a medical professional can feel like being "punched in the stomach," often causing veterans to adopt a "hero to zero" mentality. True recovery involves recognizing that a diagnosis is a human response to extreme events, not a permanent definition of one's character. Finding Hope Through Positive Reframing and ConnectionHealing often begins by asking a different set of questions, such as "Did anything good happen?" to break the cycle of remembering only the worst moments. Reconnecting with those who shared the experience provides the "closure" and "language" necessary to move toward a life lived to the fullest. Links & NetworkingAndrew CavanaughCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here.Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The "Right Now" Phone Call That Changed Everything02:27 – Watching 9/11 from an Alternative High School03:57 – The "Superman" Myth: Why We Seek Stoicism05:49 – No Time for Goodbyes: Heading to San Diego08:17 – The Yellow Footprints and the "Last Time" You’re a Civilian10:34 – Method to the Madness: Why Drill Instructors Act Like "Demons"13:58 – The Seven-Day Out-Processing Trap17:42 – The Eight-Page Report That Felt Like a Punch in the Stomach20:56 – From Hero to Zero: Wearing the PTSD Identity24:12 – The One Question from His Wife That Broke the Darkness29:53 – The Box of "Marine Stuff": A Family’s Incredible Act of Respect32:19 – Breaking Bread in a War Zone: Humanity Under Fire37:02 – The "Foreign Country" Feeling of Long-Term Isolation44:34 – The Jordanian Special Forces Message: Finding True Closure51:43 – The 90/10 Rule: How Attitude Dictates Survival53:54 – The Saturday Text Message That Saved a Life

    58 min

  2. MAR 18

    Bettina Gordon: How to Heal Your Body with Your Mind & Reverse Biological Age | Ep. 60

    Can your mind truly command your biology to repair itself from within? Most of us view health as something that happens to us, but the truth is that your body possesses an incredible, untapped agency to overcome even the most daunting physical challenges. In this episode, we dive into the radical realization that the same body that created a condition often holds the exact blueprint required to heal it. Join us as Bettina Gordon shares her profound insights on the intersection of mindset, resilience, and the science of aging. Bettina Gordon explains how shifting from a state of self-critique to one of radical self-love can actually trigger biological age reversal. You will walk away with a reclaimed sense of power over your own health journey and a "one step at a time" strategy for long-term vitality. How to Trigger Biological Age ReversalBiological aging isn't just about the passage of time; it is deeply influenced by your internal environment. Bettina Gordon highlights that shifting your mentality to one of self-love and support rather than constant critique can actually help with biological age reversal. The Strategy for Self-Healing and AgencyWe often feel like victims of our health, but we actually have immense agency over the next season of our lives. By adopting the right strategy, you can improve your strength, power, and resilience, recognizing that your body has the innate capability to heal what it has created. Using Travel and Nature for Mental RejuvenationRejuvenation often requires finding specific environments that allow for peace and "reshaping" your thoughts. Whether it's the warmth of the sun or the physical challenge of skiing, identifying the elements that revitalize you is essential for pushing through difficult life moments. Links & NetworkingBettina GordonCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here.Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The "little things" that pile up into massive energy.00:10 – Why you actually have two different ages.01:34 – Redefining aging: Battle vs. Alignment.03:02 – The "ticking time bomb" myth for women over 35.05:41 – The moment a "healthy" person gets an invasive diagnosis.07:41 – Why "longevity" isn't enough without optimal health.08:18 – The hidden danger of the "Cancer Warrior" mentality.10:14 – What your body is actually saying when it gets sick.11:51 – How your biological age can move backward.14:15 – Why fixing the "facade" won't save your foundation.17:37 – How to avoid the "slow death" of chronic disease.21:15 – The shocking results of the Counter-Clockwise study.23:44 – The surprising link between travel and younger cells.26:31 – Simple steps to stop your energy from leaking.28:25 – The one sentence that changed Bettina’s healing journey.31:50 – Why sharing your pain is a vital part of the process.

    33 min

  3. MAR 11

    Terence Turner: Stop Letting Fear Dictate Your Life | Ep. 59

    Is fear the silent architect of your life, building walls where there should be doors? When we allow anxiety to make our choices, we trade our potential for a false sense of security that eventually becomes a cage. In this moving conversation, Terence Turner shares how to dismantle the barriers of fear and reconnect with the intuitive voices that guide our true path. From the powerful symbol of a grandmother’s cowbell to the literal "spirits" that grew louder in the wake of loss, Terence Turner illustrates how putting in the work and trusting yourself can lead to a more authentic, connected existence. How to Stop Letting Fear Dictate Your DecisionsMost people avoid the hard work of self-reflection until they can no longer escape the consequences of their stagnation. Breaking this cycle requires an active choice to trust your intuition over your anxieties. Connecting with Your Intuition After LossGrief often acts as a catalyst that thins the veil between us and our inner guidance. Learning to acknowledge these "louder voices" can provide a permanent sense of direction and comfort even in the absence of loved ones. The Power of Symbols in Personal TransformationWhether it is a tattoo of a cowbell or a fishhook, physical reminders serve as anchors for our spiritual growth. These symbols help shift our perspective and ensure that the lessons from our past stay present in our daily actions. Links & NetworkingTerence TurnerCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here.Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The passion for unlocking inner wisdom01:15 – Why adults bury their natural intuition01:53 – The birthday present jackpot and early "knowing"03:15 – The breakfast table "knife incident" and family secrets04:57 – Being called "crazy" for seeing the truth06:15 – How to build a "meaning library" for your senses07:23 – The danger of looking for validation in others09:41 – How modern routines are "screwing with" your gut11:11 – The car accident vision and the puzzle of interpretation13:53 – The battle between love, ego, and intuition16:17 – Why your fear response might be a "yes"18:49 – Why you probably have a million soulmates21:02 – Helping others embrace their "crazy" quirks25:36 – Overcoming the "fraud" voice within29:37 – The wealthy uncle and the calendar truth35:17 – The difference between being connected and actual connection41:16 – The 3-hour drive dilemma: Being the adult in the room45:56 – The permanent symbol of the cowbell

    54 min

  4. MAR 4

    Diana Stafford: Root Cause of Chronic Illness & Functional Medicine | Ep. 58

    Are you suffering from symptoms that your doctor says are "all in your head" or "just anxiety"? If you are in danger on a cellular level, you will never be able to heal, and today we are identifying the root cause of chronic illness through the lens of functional medicine. In this episode, Diana Stafford shares her transition from a traditional primary care physician to a functional medicine specialist after her own family was "slammed" by the debilitating effects of toxic mold. You will learn how to move beyond "Band-Aid" solutions and understand the critical link between nervous system regulation, environmental toxins, and your body's innate ability to rebalance. Why traditional medicine fails chronic illnessTraditional medicine often relies on five-minute visits and prescriptions that address symptoms rather than continuity of care or investigating the underlying "why" behind an illness. How to identify the cell danger responseWhen your body senses a threat—whether from toxins like mold or emotional trauma—your cells enter a "danger response" that releases inflammatory mediators, making it impossible to heal until safety is restored. The role of nervous system regulation in recoveryYou cannot "out-supplement" or "out-eat" a nervous system stuck in fight-or-flight; healing requires intentional tools to signal to your body that the environment is finally safe. Understanding the hidden impact of toxic moldEnvironmental toxins can manifest as a wide array of "medical mysteries," including extreme fatigue in toddlers, neurologic issues, and sudden onset depression or insomnia. Links & NetworkingDr. Diana StaffordCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here.Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The "detox" for when nobody is listening00:01 – Why a humanities student chose the "healer" path00:03 – The "five-minute visit" trap in modern medicine00:04 – When your husband's gut issues change your career00:05 – The "mold house" that changed everything00:06 – Why a two-year-old should never be "tired"00:08 – The meeting that ended a traditional medical career00:11 – Hearing the "whispers" of the body00:14 – The "Cell Danger Response" explained00:15 – Why breathing exercises are not just "fluff"00:18 – The secret to "personalized" protocols00:23 – Navigating the "medical gaslighting" of normal labs00:27 – Why your mindset dictates your recovery speed00:35 – Can you biohack your own genes?00:38 – The "Bucket Analogy" for toxic load00:43 – Is functional medicine the future of primary care?00:46 – Why your symptoms are never "all in your head"00:50 – The specific emotion that prevents physical healing

    38 min

  5. FEB 25

    Struggle Jennings: Parenting, Life After Incarceration & Building a Legacy | Ep. 57

    Could you look at your children today and see the "warrior" that carried them through your darkest moments? For those who have faced the justice system, the hardest battle isn't the one behind bars—it’s the uphill climb to regain custody, rebuild trust, and prove you can be the father your children deserve. In this raw and deeply personal conversation, Struggle Jennings opens up about the emotional weight of being his own "worst critic" while raising children who have seen it all. From the trauma of losing a mother to drug overdose to the triumph of a daughter starting a foundation for foster youth, Struggle Jennings illustrates a powerful transformation from a man in a cell to a father fueling his children's success. How to Overcome Parental Guilt After PrisonIt is common to feel you could always be better, but the real measure of success is the stability you build after the storm. Struggle Jennings discusses the necessity of self-forgiveness and the relentless drive required to regain custody and provide a life where your children can finally feel "free." Breaking the Cycle of Generational TraumaChildren often carry the heavy burdens of their parents' pasts, sometimes choosing to take on extra responsibility to protect the family. By observing how his daughter handles her senior year and her "Foster in the Future" foundation, Struggle highlights how children of incarcerated parents can emerge from "trap houses" to become straight-A students and community leaders. The Power of Being a "Warrior" ParentTransformation isn't a single moment; it is a years-long process of fighting with your back against the wall. This episode explores the "warrior inside" that allows families to move from homelessness and foster care to a life of faith, work ethic, and academic achievement at institutions like Wofford. Links & NetworkingStruggle JenningsCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here. Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The surrender at the breaking point00:10 – Why humans hide their greatest struggles02:00 – Using mistakes as a motivation for greatness05:06 – Why your past should refine, not define you06:10 – Straddling the tracks: Blue-collar roots vs. the Jennings legacy08:34 – Learning resilience from the hope of a child10:15 – When the family becomes the victim of the crime13:12 – The "Macaroni and Cheese" phone call from jail16:20 – The terrifying reality of looking in the mirror18:15 – Processing the truth about a father’s passing21:35 – Filming a music video behind prison bars27:15 – Why Waylon Jennings would respect the "Country Rap" hustle35:22 – Watching a daughter turn trauma into a foundation40:06 – The ten-year milestone of freedom46:00 – Telling Child Services: "Be hard on me"51:15 – From the projects to the castle: Speaking it into existence58:00 – The parable of the farmer and the weeds

    1 hr

  6. FEB 18

    Darren Hobbs: Overcoming Addiction and Finding Purpose | Ep. 56

    How do you find the strength to stop digging when you’ve already hit rock bottom and burned every bridge behind you? Facing 12 to 20 years on drug charges, Darren Hobbs found himself in a jail cell, completely alone, and realized that his survival depended on a radical, honest transformation. In this raw and deeply moving episode, Darren Hobbs shares his journey from "chameleon syndrome" and a teenage Vicodin prescription to becoming a leader in the intervention space. Listeners will learn how to shift their focus from selfish problems to gratitude, the importance of "burning the boats" to ensure recovery, and how to stop negotiating with addiction to finally find a life worth living.  How to Stop Negotiating with AddictionTrue change only begins when you stop making deals with yourself and your circumstances. Darren discusses the "magical moment" of realizing he was truly alone and the power of a prayer that asked for internal change rather than an escape from external consequences. The Power of Focus in RecoveryWhat you focus on becomes your reality. Darren explains how shifting from an anxious, self-centered mindset to one rooted in daily gratitude and helping others can physically and emotionally transform your trajectory. Why "Burning the Boats" is Necessary for GrowthTo move forward, you must remove the possibility of retreat. Inspired by a friend’s advice, Darren explores the concept of taking decisive action and leaving no route to escape back into old, destructive habits. Links & Networking Darren HobbsCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here.Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The privilege of being honest with yourself01:03 – Why a "train wreck" life is a recovery honor02:12 – The smart guy’s advice for someone in a hole04:50 – A "Sanford and Son" version of the third step prayer07:01 – The first day of school and the " Dominican" discipline10:44 – Why being "Mama’s little angel" wasn't enough11:23 – The "magic prescription" that made his teeth whiter15:37 – The Arkansas ID and the man named "Zeus"18:52 – The exotic confidence of a "middleman" drug dealer21:55 – A stadium cup, a wheelchair, and a win streak ended23:56 – The desperate plea: "Mom, please make it stop"29:03 – Hearing the words: "You’re dead to me"32:21 – The mathematical error that God provided38:37 – Why being the "poop picker upper" was a gift43:51 – The relief of being "too chubby" for the wrong attention48:01 – Why hope is a better drug than cocaine50:25 – The friend’s command to "burn the motherf***ing boats"

    56 min

  7. FEB 11

    James Boucher: Healing From Childhood Trauma and Shame | Ep. 55

    How do you find the courage to step into the light when your past is defined by secrecy and a "hidden" life? In this powerful conversation, we explore the heavy burden of carrying shame and the transformative moment when taking back control means finally being seen.  James Boucher joins Charles to share his raw journey from living in the shadows of childhood sexual trauma and alcoholism to finding liberation through radical honesty. James discusses the pivotal moment he decided to blast through a blackmailer's threats by sharing his own story, proving that our greatest vulnerabilities can become our most profound connections. How to Overcome the Shame of Childhood TraumaJames describes how living "two separate lives" for decades created a cycle of secrecy that only began to heal when he finally spoke his truth out loud in therapy. Breaking the silence is the first step in reclaiming a sense of self that was lost to past experiences. Reclaiming Control After a Breach of PrivacyWhen faced with a secret recording and the threat of exposure, James chose to "take back control" by exposing the situation himself. This radical act of transparency turned a negative, predatory situation into a platform for healing and authenticity. The Power of Finding an Authentic CommunityStepping out of one’s comfort zone to find people with shared backgrounds—such as other content creators or survivors—can provide a "sense of community" that erases the fear of judgment. Being truly seen by others allows the physical and emotional weight of shame to finally lift. Links & Networking James BoucherCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here.Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The Unexpected Answer in Life's Difficult Moments01:01 – A Lifetime of "Censoring" the Self01:35 – The Silent Impact of Childhood Trauma01:55 – The Secret Recording That Changed Everything02:15 – Why Going Public was the Only Choice03:34 – Turning a Negative into a Public Benefit05:08 – The "Two Separate Lives" Phenomenon07:34 – A Surprise Community in Puerto Vallarta09:28 – The Physical Weight of Being Seen11:12 – Living Free from Small-Town Expectations13:00 – Why Telling the Story Once Changes the Dynamic15:32 – The "No More Skeletons" Content Strategy17:49 – Reaching the Ten-Year Sobriety Milestone19:37 – The Six-Year-Old in the Bedroom Exercise22:20 – The Work Event Compliment That Triggered a Breakdown24:32 – The Invisible Struggle in the Background

    30 min

  8. FEB 4

    Ricki Friedman: Stopping Adderall After 28 Years & Finding Yourself | Ep. 54

    What happens to your soul when you’ve been chemically "regulated" since the age of seven? Coming off Adderall isn't just about surviving the physical withdrawal; it is a high-stakes reclamation of the self that requires a total rewrite of what you consider "normal." In this raw and deeply personal conversation, Ricki Friedman shares her journey of stopping a 28-year prescription of stimulants to find a version of herself she never knew existed. She and Charles dive into the biological reality of dopamine deficiency, the link between complex PTSD and concentration, and why true success requires honoring your natural rhythm rather than forcing a medicated societal norm.  How to Manage ADHD Without AdderallRicki explains that the struggle to focus is often less about concentration and more about a dopamine and regulation problem. By honoring natural rhythms—like taking 20-minute walks for morning dopamine or riding "momentum waves" to write content—you can learn to work with your brain instead of forcing it into a societal norm. The Difference Between Intuition and FearWhen your nervous system is dysregulated by stimulants, it is nearly impossible to hear your own gut instincts. Ricki breaks down how to distinguish the two: intuition is a calm, persistent "no" or "do this," while fear is a loud, chaotic list of excuses designed to keep you in your comfort zone. Reclaiming Personality After Long-Term MedicationOne of the most profound changes after stopping stimulants is the return of a "diluted" personality. Ricki describes moving from a "dark," judgmental, and hyper-focused state into becoming a fun, vibrant, and grounded human being who can finally form deep, authentic connections with others Links & NetworkingRicki FriedmanCharles TurtzTURTZEDFor Coaching, Consulting, Advertising, or Press Inquiries inquire here. Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast reflects the opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice tailored to your individual needs. For the full disclaimer, visit our website. 00:00 – The trio of connections: Self, Success, and Brand02:22 – Being prescribed stimulants at seven years old04:13 – The "Three-Week Sleep" and the reality of cold turkey06:01 – Why life gets "infinitely worse" before it gets better08:14 – Rewriting the story of what is "normal"10:17 – Honoring your natural rhythm vs. the corporate machine12:06 – The realization that changed everything: "It’s like meth"15:34 – Why stimulants dysregulate the nervous system they claim to fix18:05 – The grief of a childhood without access to your own body21:05 – The difference between concentration and dopamine issues25:54 – The top two life-transforming decisions Ricki ever made30:07 – Losing (and finding) your personality on autopilot35:06 – Transitioning from "Dark Ricky" to "Light Ricky"41:59 – The 4-step system for authentic dopamine45:35 – The "Expansive Decision" trap50:44 – Why the medication is no longer serving its purpose

    54 min
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5
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

TURTZED is where real stories meet deep growth. Hosted by Charles Turtz, this podcast dives deep into the moments that define us—grief, trauma, identity, coming out, rebuilding, and the wild mess of healing. Through unfiltered conversations and vulnerable solo episodes, TURTZED helps you own your story, find your voice, and build a life aligned with who you really are. From navigating mental health and family wounds to rediscovering self-worth and purpose, each episode explores the bridge between surviving and truly living. Whether you’re unpacking your past, questioning everything, or chasing clarity in your career or relationships, this space is for you. No fluff. Just truth, growth, and the kind of talk that hits deep.

Information

  • Creator
    Charles Turtz
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    61
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © TURTZED Podcast LLC
  • Show Website
    TURTZED