Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Bleav

"Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads" is a podcast born from G-Rex’s personal mental health journey, beginning with a life-changing breakdown in 2022. Supported by her wife, the 988 helpline, and her faith, G-Rex found a path to healing and vowed to normalize conversations around mental health. Co-hosted with her best friend, Dirty Skittles, the podcast dives into life’s mental health struggles, relationships, and personal growth, creating a safe space for open, honest dialogue. With practical insights and real talk, the show offers listeners a supportive community, reminding everyone it’s okay not to be okay and to reach out for help.

  • 52 minutes 12 seconds
    Louis Kim on Finding Purpose After Success: Why Money Won’t Fix Your Mental Health

    What happens when you build the life you thought you were supposed to want—money, success, freedom, and still wake up feeling empty? In this raw and honest conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Louis Kim to unpack the quiet truth so many people are afraid to admit: external success doesn’t heal internal pain. Lou shares his journey through identity struggles, multiple suicide attempts, and a decade-long path of self-discovery that forced him to rethink everything he believed about happiness, purpose, and what it really means to feel alive.

    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

    Special Announcements

    Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards

    I’m incredibly proud to share that we have been nominated in the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset & Mental Health category.

    This recognition means more than words can capture. What started as honest, sometimes messy conversations has grown into something bigger—a space where people feel seen, heard, and a little less alone.

    Now we have a chance to grow that impact even further, and your support would mean everything.

    Vote here:
    https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards-voting

    Voting is open now through April 30th at 6 PM PST

    Voting is simple:
    • Click the link
    • Select the vote button
    • Complete the form

    Please note: only one vote per person and email address is allowed, and duplicate submissions will not be counted.

    Thank you for being part of this journey—whether you’ve listened, shared, or supported in any way.

    A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth—and honestly, this one hits home.

    We talk a lot on this show about burnout, anxiety, and carrying way too much for way too long. Cozy Earth is about bringing comfort back into those quiet, in-between moments—the ones where you finally get to exhale. Their robes and slippers are designed to feel like a deep breath at the end of a long day—soft, intentional, and made to support real life.

    Think about the women in your life—the ones who give endlessly. When was the last time they got that same level of care back?

    This is your reminder: comfort matters. And you deserve it, too.

    Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off.
    Because the people who give the most should feel taken care of, too.

    Meet Our Guest — Louis Kim

    Louis Kim is a Korean-American entrepreneur, Founder of Yusan Capital, and a leader in what he calls “Connected Capitalism.” After building and selling a successful business, Louis found himself facing deep inner struggles that led him on a path of self-discovery, spiritual awakening, and heart-centered leadership. Today, he bridges the worlds of business and inner work, helping others understand that true success starts within.

    Website: http://www.loukim.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/partsoflou/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@partsoflou/

    Mental Health Quote

    “If you’re unhappy without money, you’ll just be more miserable with it. Real fulfillment comes from within.” — Louis Kim

    Episode Description

    Louis Kim did everything right, built the business, made the money, and checked every box society tells us should equal happiness. But behind the success, he was struggling in silence. In this deeply honest conversation, Louis shares what it felt like to reach the top, realize something was still missing, and how that realization led him into one of the hardest, yet most transformative, chapters of his life.

    Sitting down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Louis opens up about surviving multiple suicide attempts, navigating identity struggles as the child of immigrants, and confronting the uncomfortable truth that external achievements can’t replace internal fulfillment. What followed wasn’t a quick fix—it was a decade-long journey of self-discovery, letting go, and rebuilding from the inside out.

    This episode explores the power of gratitude, the importance of self-love, and why chasing joy will always take you further than chasing money. Louis also shares how his perspective on leadership has evolved, and what it really means to live authentically in a world that constantly pushes you to perform.

    If you’ve ever felt like you should be happier than you are, this conversation will hit home—and remind you that purpose isn’t something you find outside of yourself. It’s something you build from within.

    Keywords: Louis Kim, mental health podcast, finding purpose, success and happiness, suicide survival, self-discovery, gratitude practice, emotional wellness, burnout recovery, inner peace, personal growth, authenticity, joy vs money, mindset shift

    Key Takeaways

    • Success without purpose can feel just as empty as failure
    • Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools for shifting your mindset
    • External validation will never replace internal fulfillment
    • Joy comes from connection and experiences—not material things
    • Self-love is the foundation for meaningful relationships
    • Your lowest moments can become the beginning of real transformation
     

    Actionable Items

    • Create a “joy folder” on your phone with moments that make you smile
    • Practice daily gratitude by naming three things you appreciate
    • Pause and ask yourself: Am I chasing this for validation or fulfillment?
     

    References Mentioned

    Marcus Aurelius (Stoic philosophy on presence and gratitude)
    988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Welcome + meeting Louis Kim
    • 07:00 – The illusion of success and feeling empty inside
    • 15:00 – Suicide attempts and the turning point toward self-discovery
    • 25:00 – Gratitude, presence, and learning to appreciate the moment
    • 35:00 – Why experiences matter more than material success
    • 45:00 – Advice to his younger self: authenticity and gratitude
    • 52:00 – The hardest lesson: learning to love yourself first
    • 01:00:00 – Closing thoughts + where to find Louis
     

    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 #SelfDiscovery #PurposeDrivenLife #EmotionalWellness #InnerHealing #SuicideAwareness #GratitudePractice #MindsetShift #PersonalGrowthJourney #AuthenticLiving #JoyOverMoney #HealingJourney #MentalHealthMatters #PodcastLife

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    21 April 2026, 7:00 am
  • 21 minutes 41 seconds
    Covert Narcissism and Self-Blame Why You Always Feel Like You’re the Problem

    What happens when you keep walking away from conversations, feeling like everything is somehow your fault? In this special podcast swap, we’re sharing a powerful episode from Renee Swanson of The Covert Narcissism Podcast—one that breaks down the emotional weight of self-blame and why so many of us carry responsibility that was never ours to begin with. This isn’t our usual format, but it’s one we believe matters—and we truly hope you walk away from this episode learning something that shifts how you see yourself and your relationships.

    Mental Health Quote

    “Maybe you’re not the problem. Maybe you were just trying to be normal in a place that couldn’t tolerate normal.” — Renee Swanson

    Episode Description

    This episode is something a little different—and very intentional. As part of a podcast swap, we’re featuring a powerful episode from Renee Swanson, host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast. And honestly? This is one we knew our listeners needed to hear.

    Renee walks us through the subtle, often invisible dynamics of covert narcissism and self-blame—the kind that doesn’t show up as obvious conflict but instead leaves you questioning yourself after completely normal interactions. Through real-life scenarios, she unpacks how everyday conversations can twist, leaving you carrying guilt, confusion, and responsibility that were never yours.

    We explore what it means to be a self-reflective person in an unhealthy dynamic, how emotional intelligence can be quietly exploited, and why some relationships make you feel like you’re constantly getting it wrong. Renee also introduces the idea of internal boundaries—simple but powerful shifts that help you stop absorbing someone else’s tension and start trusting your own reality again.

    This episode hits deep because it puts words to something so many people feel but struggle to explain. And that’s exactly why we wanted to bring it to you.

    We’re honored to share Renee’s work on our platform, and we hope you take something real, grounding, and empowering from this conversation—because understanding this dynamic can truly change how you show up in your life and your relationships.

    Keywords: covert narcissism, self-blame, emotional abuse, toxic relationships, mental health awareness, gaslighting, self-worth, emotional intelligence, boundaries, healing journey, trauma recovery, self-trust, relationship patterns, 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 provides clarity, validation, and practical tools for those navigating confusion, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion.

    Website: https://covertnarcissism.com/

    Key Takeaways

    • Not every emotional reaction directed at you belongs to you
    • Self-reflection is a strength—but in the wrong environment, it can be used against you
    • Feeling like “the problem” is often a learned pattern, not the truth
    • Healthy relationships can handle normal communication without turning it into conflict
    • Internal boundaries help you separate your emotions from someone else’s tension
    • Patterns of self-doubt around specific people are important signals, not coincidences

    Actionable Items

    • When self-blame shows up, pause and ask: “Who was I interacting with?”
    • Practice the boundary: “I will not internalize someone else’s tension.”
    • Notice where you feel grounded versus where you feel anxious or “too much”—and trust that awareness

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00:00 – G-Rex introduces the podcast swap and why this episode matters
    • 00:00:25 – Renee sets the stage: when something feels off but you can’t explain why
    • 00:01:07 – The kitchen scenario: how normal conversations turn into self-blame
    • 00:04:29 – Understanding emotional offloading and the “pressure release valve” dynamic
    • 00:06:14 – The long-term cost of self-erasure in relationships
    • 00:07:32 – Why everyday questions become “problems” in unhealthy dynamics
    • 00:08:21 – Workplace example: how self-doubt spreads beyond relationships
    • 00:12:11 – The grounding question that shifts your perspective
    • 00:13:41 – Why self-reflective people are more vulnerable in these dynamics
    • 00:15:55 – How covert narcissism exploits emotional intelligence
    • 00:17:22 – Weekly assignment: recognizing patterns of self-blame
    • 00:18:58 – Reclaiming your internal compass and sense of normal
     

    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 #SelfBlame #ToxicRelationships #EmotionalAbuseRecovery #GaslightingAwareness #HealingJourney #BoundariesMatter #SelfWorth #EmotionalIntelligence #TraumaHealing #RelationshipDynamics #PodcastSwap #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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    16 April 2026, 7:49 pm
  • 54 minutes 21 seconds
    Shannon Salge on Burnout, Gut Health, and Healing Beyond Symptom-Chasing

    What happens when your body completely breaks down—and no one can tell you why? In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Shannon Salge to talk about burnout, chronic illness, and the deeper emotional roots of healing that most people never address.

    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 can do everything ‘right’ and still feel broken—until you start healing what’s underneath.” — Shannon Salge

    Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards

    We’ve been nominated in the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset & Mental Health category—and this one means everything.

    What started as real, unfiltered conversations has grown into a space where people feel seen, heard, and a little less alone.

    Vote here:
    https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards-voting

    Voting is open through April 30th at 6 PM PST
    One vote per person/email

    Thank you for being part of this journey.

    A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth—and honestly, this one hits home.

    We talk a lot about burnout, anxiety, and carrying way too much for way too long. Cozy Earth is about bringing comfort back into those quiet, in-between moments—the ones where you finally get to exhale.

    Their robes and slippers are soft, intentional, and made to support real life.

    Think about the women in your life—the ones who give endlessly. When was the last time they got that same level of care back?

    Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off.

    Because the people who give the most deserve to feel taken care of, too.

    Episode Description

    Shannon Salge thought she was doing everything right—eating clean, working out, pushing through, and showing up at the highest level. Until her body completely shut down.

    In this honest and powerful conversation, Shannon joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to discuss what really happens when burnout, chronic stress, and unresolved emotional patterns manifest as physical symptoms. After years of being dismissed, misdiagnosed, and gaslit by doctors, Shannon was eventually diagnosed with an autoimmune condition—but that diagnosis didn’t explain everything.

    What she uncovered next changed the way she sees health entirely.

    This episode challenges the idea that healing is just about fixing symptoms. Shannon breaks down how gut issues, hormone imbalances, fatigue, and chronic pain are often tied to deeper stress patterns, nervous system dysregulation, and emotional suppression. She shares that learning to slow down, set boundaries, and listen to her body was the turning point in her recovery.

    You’ll also hear about alternative approaches like bioresonance testing and functional labs, and why advocating for yourself within the medical system is non-negotiable.

    If you’ve ever been told “everything looks normal” but you know something isn’t right—this conversation is for you.

    Keywords: Shannon Salge, burnout recovery, gut health, autoimmune disease, mental health, chronic stress, nervous system healing, women’s wellness, hormone imbalance, emotional healing, functional nutrition, root cause healing, fatigue recovery, health advocacy, holistic healing

    Meet Our Guest — Shannon Salge

    Shannon Salge is the founder and CEO of The Wellness Paradigm, a virtual practice helping women move beyond symptom-chasing and heal at the root. As a functional nutritionist, metabolism and hormone expert, and autoimmune warrior, she blends science-backed testing with emotional and energetic healing to help women restore their health, energy, and resilience.

    Website: https://www.thewellnessparadigm.com
    Podcast: https://thewellnessparadigmpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannon.salge/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannon.salge/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-salge
    Brand Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_wellness_paradigm/
    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wellness-paradigm/id1809268079

    Key Takeaways

    • Burnout and chronic illness often start long before symptoms show up in labs
    • Mental health and physical health are deeply connected—not separate issues
    • Treating symptoms without addressing root causes keeps you stuck
    • Nervous system regulation is a critical piece of long-term healing
    • Advocating for yourself in the medical system can change everything
    • There is no one-size-fits-all approach—alignment matters in healing
     

    Actionable Items

    • Pay attention to patterns: when do your symptoms flare, and what’s happening in your life at that time?
    • Set one boundary this week that protects your energy or reduces stress
    • If something feels off in your body, trust that instinct and seek another perspective
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Introduction and why mental health is part of total wellness
      The hosts set the stage for a deeper conversation about the connection between mental and physical health.
    • 05:00 – Shannon’s breaking point: from athlete to autoimmune diagnosis
      Shannon shares how her high-performance lifestyle led to a complete physical collapse.
    • 15:00 – Being dismissed by doctors and learning to advocate for yourself
      A candid discussion on medical gaslighting and the importance of pushing for answers.
    • 25:00 – The connection between stress, emotions, and physical illness
      How unresolved emotional stress can manifest as physical symptoms.
    • 35:00 – Discovering nervous system healing and setting boundaries
      The moment Shannon realized stress and overworking were major contributors to her illness.
    • 45:00 – Alternative healing methods and finding what works for you
      Exploring bioresonance, functional medicine, and non-traditional healing approaches.
    • 55:00 – Final thoughts: healing is possible, and you are not stuck
      A powerful reminder that change is possible—even after years of feeling unwell.
     

    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 #BurnoutRecovery #GutHealthHealing #WomensWellness #HormoneHealth #ChronicIllnessSupport #NervousSystemHealing #RootCauseHealing #AutoimmuneAwareness #FunctionalNutrition #StressAndHealth #HealingJourney #HolisticHealth #HealthAdvocacy

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    14 April 2026, 7:00 am
  • 25 minutes 31 seconds
    The War Inside You: Why You Still Miss Them After Covert Narcissistic Abuse (IFS Explained)

    This week, we’re doing something a little different. As part of a special episode swap, we’re sharing a powerful episode from Renee Swanson of The Covert Narcissism Podcast—and this one is going to hit you right in the heart.

    Mental Health Quote

    “It’s not confusion—it’s communication. Different parts of you are trying to be heard.” — Renee Swanson

    Episode Description

    This episode is different—and intentionally so.

    We’re bringing you a raw and deeply validating conversation from Renee Swanson, host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast, as part of a special episode swap. And if you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I still miss someone who hurt me?”—this is for you.

    Renee breaks down the internal war so many survivors of covert narcissistic abuse experience. That push-and-pull between what you know is true and what you still feel isn’t weakness—it’s your internal system trying to protect you.

    Using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) framework, she explains how different parts of you—like the “firefighter” that urges you to reconnect and the deeper “exile” carrying pain—are working overtime to keep you safe, even when it feels confusing or overwhelming.

    This episode isn’t about fixing yourself. It’s about understanding yourself. It’s about learning to sit with what’s coming up instead of judging it—and realizing that healing happens when you start listening inward instead of fighting yourself.

    If this episode resonated with you, I highly recommend checking out Renee Swanson and her Covert Narcissism Podcast.
    Her work goes so much deeper into understanding these patterns and helping you reconnect with yourself in a way that actually creates change—not just more awareness.
    You can find her podcast wherever you’re listening right now. I’ll link her podcast and coaching in the show notes, so you can easily find her.

    Keywords: covert narcissism, narcissistic abuse recovery, emotional abuse healing, trauma bonding, internal family systems, IFS therapy, toxic relationships, emotional healing, self-awareness, trauma recovery, attachment wounds, healing journey, self-trust

    Meet the Host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast — Renee Swanson

    Renee Swanson is the host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast and a coach dedicated to helping people make sense of emotionally abusive and confusing relationship dynamics. Through her work, she offers grounded, compassionate guidance to help listeners untangle internal conflict, rebuild self-trust, and reconnect with who they are after covert narcissistic experiences.

    Podcast: https://bleav.com/shows/the-covert-narcissism-podcast/
    Coaching: https://www.covertnarcissism.com/

    Key Takeaways

    • Missing someone who hurt you is a normal part of trauma and attachment
    • Internal conflict is not weakness—it’s different parts of you communicating
    • “Firefighter” parts act urgently to protect you from deeper emotional pain
    • Healing begins when you stop judging your feelings and start listening to them
    • You don’t need to rush your healing—awareness is progress

    Actionable Items

    • Pause when you feel the urge to reconnect and ask: what part of me is speaking right now?
    • Try Renee’s 6-step IFS process: find, focus, flesh, feel, befriend, fear
    • Practice responding to your emotions with curiosity instead of judgment

    References Mentioned

    The Covert Narcissism Podcast: https://bleav.com/shows/the-covert-narcissism-podcast/
    Coaching with Renee Swanson: https://www.covertnarcissism.com/

    Important Chapters

    00:00 – Why you can still miss someone who hurt you
    05:00 – Understanding internal conflict after narcissistic abuse
    12:00 – Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS)
    25:00 – Firefighters, managers, and exiles explained
    40:00 – The 6-step process for navigating emotional triggers
    55:00 – Building self-trust and ending the internal war

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review!
    Remember to subscribe for more powerful conversations like this from Renee Swanson and The Covert Narcissism Podcast.

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CovertNarcissism #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #TraumaHealing #IFStherapy #EmotionalHealing #ToxicRelationships #SelfAwarenessJourney #HealingAfterAbuse #AttachmentHealing #InnerWork #SelfTrust

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    9 April 2026, 12:54 pm
  • 35 minutes 32 seconds
    Justin Goodman on Suicide Prevention, Bipolar Disorder & Workplace Mental Health

    What happens when someone risks their friendship to save your life? In this powerful conversation, Justin Goodman sits down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how surviving addiction, bipolar disorder, and a suicide attempt led him to change how we show up for each other—especially at work.

    Trigger Notice

    This episode includes discussions of suicide, addiction, and mental health crises.

    If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone.
    Call or text 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
    Find global support: https://findahelpline.com

    Awards & Downloads Line

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 4x award-winning podcast — including the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award (Best Mental Health Podcast), and the 2026 NYC Podcast Awards Audience Choice Award (Best Hosts) — with over 4.5 million downloads and counting.

    Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards

    I’m incredibly proud to share that we have been nominated in the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset & Mental Health category.

    This recognition means more than words can capture. What started as honest, sometimes messy conversations has grown into something bigger—a space where people feel seen, heard, and a little less alone.

    Now we have a chance to grow that impact even further, and your support would mean everything.

    Vote here:
    https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards-voting

    Voting is open now through April 30th at 6PM PST

    Voting is simple:
    • Click the link
    • Select the vote button
    • Complete the form

    Please note: only one vote per person and email address is allowed, and duplicate submissions will not be counted.

    Thank you for being part of this journey—whether you’ve listened, shared, or supported in any way.

    A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth—and honestly, this one hits home.

    We talk a lot on this show about burnout, anxiety, and carrying way too much for way too long. Cozy Earth is about bringing comfort back into those quiet, in-between moments—the ones where you finally get to exhale. Their robes and slippers are designed to feel like a deep breath at the end of a long day—soft, intentional, and made to support real life.

    Think about the women in your life—the ones who give endlessly. When was the last time they got that same level of care back?

    This is your reminder: comfort matters. And you deserve it, too.

    Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off.
    Because the people who give the most should feel taken care of, too.

    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 can’t save everybody—and it’s not your job to carry their pain, only to help them through it.” — Justin Goodman

    Episode Description

    Justin Goodman’s story is one of those that stays with you. Not because it’s polished—but because it’s real.

    From being bullied as a kid to living with chronic pain and developing an addiction to painkillers, Justin found himself in a place where he didn’t want to be anymore. What changed everything wasn’t a grand plan—it was one person paying attention and stepping in at the exact right moment.

    In this conversation, Justin opens up about being misdiagnosed for years before finally learning he was living with bipolar disorder. He talks about how the wrong medication made things worse, how hard it was to find stability, and what it actually took to rebuild his life from the inside out.

    But what makes this episode hit differently is what Justin chose to do with that experience. Through Project 55, he’s helping everyday people learn to recognize when someone is struggling, have real conversations, and step in before things reach a breaking point.

    Because the truth is, most people don’t get help when they need it. And most workplaces still don’t know how to respond when someone is clearly not okay.

    This episode is a reminder that you don’t need to be a therapist to make a difference. Sometimes, you just need to notice—and care enough to act.

    Keywords: Justin Goodman, suicide prevention, bipolar disorder, workplace mental health, addiction recovery, mental health awareness, Project 55, depression, crisis support, employee wellbeing, burnout, anxiety, leadership, stigma, emotional wellness

    Meet Our Guest — Justin Goodman

    Justin Goodman is an entrepreneur and mental health advocate, and the founder of Project 55, a nonprofit focused on improving workplace mental health outcomes. After surviving addiction, a suicide attempt, and years of misdiagnosed mental health challenges, Justin now helps people learn how to recognize and respond to mental health struggles before they escalate.

    Connect with Justin:
    Website: https://project55.org
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/project55/

    Key Takeaways

    • Most people struggling with mental health never get help—and that gap is bigger than we think
    • You don’t have to be a professional to support someone who’s hurting
    • Misdiagnosis can delay healing, but the right tools can change everything
    • Workplaces often miss the signs because no one is trained to look
    • Feeling seen and valued can interrupt even the darkest thoughts
     

    Actionable Items

    • Check in on someone who feels “off” instead of assuming they’re fine
    • Practice asking direct, compassionate questions—even if it feels uncomfortable
    • Identify one person in your life you can be honest with when things get heavy
     

    References Mentioned

     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:01:00 – Justin’s career path and how he found purpose in mental health advocacy
    • 00:02:30 – Chronic pain, addiction, and reaching a breaking point
    • 00:03:40 – The intervention that saved his life
    • 00:05:00 – Bipolar diagnosis and the impact of getting it wrong first
    • 00:07:00 – Why workplaces struggle to support mental health
    • 00:10:00 – The E.A.G.E.R. framework and how to help someone in crisis
    • 00:20:00 – The truth about not being able to save everyone
    • 00:31:00 – Daily habits that help Justin stay grounded
     

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review!
    Remember to subscribe for more real, honest conversations. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:
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    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #SuicidePrevention #BipolarDisorder #WorkplaceMentalHealth #AddictionRecovery #EndTheStigma #MentalHealthSupport #LeadershipMatters #EmotionalWellness #BurnoutRecovery #CrisisSupport #Project55 #JustinGoodman #GLDNPR

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

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    7 April 2026, 7:00 am
  • 54 minutes 52 seconds
    Nicole Explains the Toxic Shame Cycle (And How to Finally Break Free)

    What if the voice in your head telling you you’re not enough… isn’t actually the truth? In this powerful episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with therapist Nicole Penrod to unpack the toxic shame cycle, perfectionism, and what it really takes to come back to yourself—and finally feel like you’re enough without having to prove it.

    A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth—and honestly, this one hits home.

    We talk a lot on this show about burnout, anxiety, and carrying way too much for way too long. Cozy Earth is about bringing comfort back into those quiet, in-between moments—the ones where you finally get to exhale. Their robes and slippers are designed to feel like a deep breath at the end of a long day… soft, intentional, and made to support real life.

    Think about the women in your life—the ones who give endlessly. When was the last time they got that same level of care back?

    This is your reminder: comfort matters. And you deserve it, too.

    Head to https://www.cozyearth.com and use code OURHEADS for 20% off.
    Because the people who give the most should feel taken care of, too.

    Awards & Downloads

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 4x award-winning podcast — including the 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award (Best Mental Health Podcast), and the 2026 NYC Podcast Awards Audience Choice Award (Best Hosts) — with over 4.5 million downloads and counting.

    Feedback

    We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:
    https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a

    Mental Health Quote

    “You’re allowed to be a work in progress without being a problem to fix.” — Nicole Penrod

    Episode Description

    Why do so many of us feel stuck between “I’m not enough” and “I need to be perfect”? In this deeply honest and eye-opening conversation, therapist Nicole Penrod breaks down the toxic shame cycle—a pattern that keeps us bouncing between self-criticism and impossible expectations.

    Nicole shares her personal journey through depression, eating disorder recovery, and undiagnosed ADHD, revealing how even the most driven and capable people can feel like they’re constantly falling short. Together with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, they unpack how perfectionism, fear of rejection, and the pressure to “do it all” can disconnect us from our real selves.

    But this episode isn’t just about awareness—it’s about change. Nicole offers practical ways to recognize when you’re stuck in a cycle, set realistic goals that actually work, and celebrate small wins as one of the most powerful mental health tools you have.

    They also dive into boundaries, self-respect, and the uncomfortable truth that growth sometimes means people won’t always see you as the “nice” one anymore.

    If you’ve ever felt like you’re either failing or trying to be everything at once, this episode will hit—and help you find your way back to center.

    Keywords: toxic shame cycle, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-worth, emotional healing, therapy tools, boundaries, mental health podcast, self-acceptance, rejection, personal growth, coping strategies

    Meet Our Guest — Nicole Penrod

    Nicole Penrod is a licensed marriage and family therapist based in California, specializing in relationships, anxiety, and nontraditional partnerships, including ethical non-monogamy. She works with individuals and couples to deepen self-awareness, improve communication, and navigate complex emotional patterns with clarity and compassion.

    Nicole is also a creative writer, bringing storytelling and humanity into her work—helping people feel seen, understood, and less alone in their mental health journeys.

    Website: https://nicolepenrodmft.com/about/
    Practice: https://relationshipcenter.com

    Key Takeaways

    • The toxic shame cycle keeps you stuck between “I’m not enough” and “I must be perfect.”
    • You’re not broken—you’re responding to unrealistic expectations
    • Small, realistic goals are more powerful than overwhelming, perfect plans
    • Celebrating wins (even tiny ones) builds real confidence over time
    • Boundaries can feel uncomfortable—but they create self-respect
    • You don’t have to save the world to make a meaningful impact
     

    Actionable Items

    • Start a daily “wins list” and include even the smallest accomplishments
    • Ask yourself: “What is realistic for me today?” before setting goals
    • Notice all-or-nothing thinking and gently bring yourself back to the middle
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:01:30 – Meet Nicole: therapist, writer, and creative thinker
    • 00:10:30 – Mental health journey: depression, eating disorder recovery, ADHD
    • 00:24:00 – Navigating fear, overwhelm, and today’s world
    • 00:29:50 – The toxic shame cycle explained
    • 00:34:30 – How to break the cycle with realistic goals
    • 00:48:00 – Boundaries and letting go of being “too nice.”
    • 00:52:00 – Rapid fire: anxiety theme song, favorite word, and more

    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 #ToxicShameCycle #PerfectionismRecovery #AnxietyHealing #SelfWorth #EmotionalWellness #TherapyTools #ADHDAwareness #HealingJourney #BoundariesMatter #SelfAcceptance #MentalHealthSupport

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    31 March 2026, 7:00 am
  • 45 minutes 12 seconds
    Kate King on Toxic Relationships, Healing, and How to Mend or Move On

    What if the hardest relationship you have to walk away from is the one you thought would heal you? In this powerful Season 17 opener, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with returning guest Kate King to unpack toxic relationship patterns, emotional healing, and how to finally choose yourself.

    Awards & Downloads

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has over 4.5 million downloads and counting, we are listened to all over the world, and we are an award-winning podcast.

    • 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)
    • 2026 NYC Podcast Award Winner (Best Hosts)

    Feedback Link

    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 keep abandoning yourself just to keep a relationship alive.” — Kate King

    Episode Description

    Relationships can shape us—but they can also slowly break us if we’re not paying attention. In this deeply honest and eye-opening conversation, Kate King returns to the mic to talk about the patterns, blind spots, and emotional traps that keep people stuck in relationships that hurt more than they heal.

    Drawing on over 17 years of experience in mental health, art therapy, and coaching, Kate shares the inspiration behind her book, Mend or Move On, and walks us through the subtle ways we normalize dysfunction. From ignoring red flags to confusing chemistry with compatibility, this episode pulls back the curtain on why leaving isn’t always as simple as it sounds.

    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles keep it real as they explore the emotional tug-of-war between staying and going, how trauma and nervous system responses play into our relationship choices, and what it actually looks like to rebuild self-trust. Kate brings a grounded, compassionate approach—blending neuroscience, creativity, and practical tools—to help listeners reconnect with themselves and start making empowered decisions.

    If you’ve ever questioned your worth in a relationship, felt stuck in cycles you can’t explain, or wondered if it’s time to walk away, this episode will hit home—and help you find your next step forward.

    Keywords: toxic relationships, emotional healing, mental health podcast, relationship trauma, self-worth, boundaries, nervous system healing, leaving toxic relationships, codependency, relationship red flags, healing journey, self-awareness, personal growth, trauma recovery

    Meet Our Guest — Kate King

    Kate King is the founder of The Radiant Life Project, a Radiant Life Coach, Board-Certified Art Therapist, award-winning author, and former Licensed Professional Counselor with over 17 years of experience. Her work blends neuroscience, psychology, spirituality, and creativity to help people heal, reconnect, and live more authentic lives.

    Kate is the author of Mend or Move On, a therapeutic guide to recognizing and recovering from harmful relationships, and the creator of tools like The Radiant Life Project, The Authentic Mother, and the Ink & Wings Oracle Deck.

    Key Takeaways

    • Not all relationships are meant to be saved—and recognizing that is part of healing
    • Toxic patterns often feel familiar because they’re rooted in past experiences
    • Self-abandonment is one of the highest costs of staying in unhealthy relationships
    • Awareness is the first step, but action is what creates real change
    • Healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about reconnecting to your truth

    Actionable Items

    • Write down the patterns you keep repeating in relationships and identify what they’re trying to teach you
    • Practice setting one small boundary this week—even if it feels uncomfortable
    • Create a daily check-in with yourself: “Am I honoring my needs right now?”

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Welcome back Kate King & why this conversation matters now
    • 08:15 – How to recognize toxic relationship patterns early
    • 18:40 – The emotional traps that keep people stuck
    • 29:10 – Trauma, nervous system responses, and attachment
    • 41:25 – When to mend vs. when to move on
    • 52:00 – Rebuilding self-trust and choosing yourself again

    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 #ToxicRelationships #EmotionalHealing #RelationshipTrauma #SelfWorth #Boundaries #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth #TraumaRecovery #Codependency #MentalHealthSupport

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    24 March 2026, 7:00 am
  • 42 minutes 1 second
    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles on Reclaiming Your Authentic Self | Season 16 Mental Health Recap

    Season 16 has been a powerful ride. In this special finale, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles reflect on the wisdom, healing, and hard-earned lessons shared by this season’s incredible guests—all centered around one powerful truth: reclaiming your authentic self is one of the bravest things you can do.

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), a 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), the 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner for Best Mental Health Podcast, and the 2026 NYC Podcast Awards Audience Award Winner for Best Hosts, with over 4 million downloads and counting.

    Feedback Link

    We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:
    https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a

    Mental Health Quote

    “Reclaiming your authentic self means letting go of who you were told to be and choosing who you truly are.”

    Episode Description

    Season 16 of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads brought together powerful voices in mental health, resilience, and personal growth. Throughout the season, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sat down with professionals, advocates, and individuals with lived experiences who shared honest stories about healing, boundaries, trauma recovery, and rediscovering identity.

    Each episode peeled back another layer of what it really means to prioritize mental health in a world that often tells us to push through and stay silent. Our guests spoke openly about navigating difficult life experiences, learning to forgive themselves, and building healthier relationships with others and with themselves.

    What emerged across these conversations was a powerful theme: authenticity. Healing begins when we allow ourselves to be seen honestly—without shame, without masks, and without the pressure to be perfect.

    Some guests brought professional insight from decades of work in psychology, counseling, or advocacy. Others shared deeply personal journeys of overcoming adversity and reclaiming their voice. Together, these stories formed a season that reminded us of the importance of talking openly about mental health.

    In this season finale, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles reflect on the lessons that resonated the most and celebrate the incredible community that continues to grow around these conversations.

    Because when we share our stories, we help others realize they’re not alone.

    SEO Keywords: mental health podcast, emotional wellness, authenticity, trauma recovery, personal growth, resilience, therapy conversations, healing journey, self-discovery, boundaries, mental health awareness, recovery stories, mental health advocacy

    Meet Our Season 16 Guests

    ** Dr. Esther Zeldon
    Dr. Esther Zeldon shared powerful insights from her work helping individuals understand emotional patterns and reclaim their mental well-being. Her conversation focused on self-awareness, emotional healing, and the importance of compassionate self-reflection.

    ** Katherin Giovanni
    Katherin Giovanni brought a perspective rooted in forgiveness and emotional release. She discussed how letting go of resentment and learning self-forgiveness can open the door to deeper healing and personal freedom.

    ** Zulma Williams
    Zulma Williams shared her inspiring story of resilience and advocacy. Her work emphasizes empowering individuals to find their voice and create positive change in their communities while prioritizing mental wellness.

    ** Jeff Luther
    Jeff Luther offered an honest look at the challenges of navigating mental health struggles and the strength it takes to ask for help. His story highlighted vulnerability, courage, and the importance of connection.

    ** Dr. Kristen Williamson
    Dr. Kristen Williamson joined the show to discuss the realities of trauma recovery and the tools people can use to rebuild their emotional health. Her insights emphasized practical strategies and hope for long-term healing.

    ** Greg and Mike
    Greg and Mike brought a powerful shared conversation about lived experiences, resilience, and the value of open dialogue around mental health. Their episodes highlighted the impact of community support and honest storytelling.

    ** Scott Harris
    Scott Harris spoke about personal transformation and the lessons that come from confronting life’s hardest moments. His story underscored the strength that emerges when people face adversity with honesty and determination.

    ** Yvonne Trost
    Yvonne Trost shared her journey of personal growth and healing, offering insights into emotional resilience and the power of self-discovery.

    ** Olalu Ogunyemi
    Olalu Ogunyemi brought a unique perspective on mental wellness, leadership, and personal development. His conversation focused on growth, mindset, and empowering others through knowledge and storytelling.

    ** Jack Bohannan
    Jack Bohannan discussed the realities of mental health challenges and the importance of vulnerability. His story highlighted how sharing experiences can inspire others to seek support.

    ** Barb Nangle
    Barb Nangle’s conversation focused on boundaries, self-worth, and the courage to change unhealthy patterns. Her work encourages people to reclaim their lives by choosing healthier emotional habits.

    Key Takeaways

    • Healing often begins with honest conversations about our experiences.
    • Authenticity requires courage but creates a deeper connection.
    • Boundaries are a critical part of emotional wellness.
    • Sharing stories helps reduce stigma around mental health.
    • Personal growth happens when we allow ourselves to learn from struggle.

    Actionable Items

    • Reflect on what authenticity means to you.
    • Identify one boundary that could improve your mental well-being.
    • Start a conversation about mental health with someone you trust.

     Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Season 16 Reflection
      G-Rex and Dirty Skittles open the finale by reflecting on the journey through this season.
    • 08:15 – Lessons from Our Guests
      Key insights and memorable themes were shared throughout the season.
    • 20:40 – Reclaiming Your Authentic Self
      A deeper look into how authenticity supports mental health and healing.
    • 35:10 – Gratitude for the Community
      Celebrating the listeners and guests who made Season 16 possible.
    • 45:00 – Looking Ahead
      Closing thoughts and excitement for the future of the podcast.

    Closing CTA

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    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 #EmotionalWellness #AuthenticSelf #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealthAdvocacy #HealingCommunity #PodcastLife #MentalHealthConversations

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio Editing by NJz Audio


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    17 March 2026, 7:00 am
  • 38 minutes
    Barb Nangle (Part 2): Building Healthy Boundaries After Childhood Trauma

    Healing isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about finally feeling safe enough to be yourself.

    In Part 2, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles continue their conversation with boundaries coach Barb Nangle, diving deeper into trauma recovery, nervous system healing, meditation, and the mindset shifts that help people build healthier relationships with themselves and others.

    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), and 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 4 million downloads and counting.

    Feedback Link Line

    We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:
    https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a

    Mental Health Quote

    “Boundaries help you go from reacting to life… to actually living it.” — Barb Nangle

    Episode Description

    In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, boundaries coach Barb Nangle explores what happens after we begin to recognize our trauma patterns.

    Growing up in dysfunctional environments can keep the brain locked in fight-or-flight survival mode, making it difficult to access the part of the brain responsible for clear thinking, decision-making, and identity.

    Barb explains how codependency often develops as a survival strategy—where people learn to focus entirely on the needs of others while disconnecting from their own feelings, preferences, and boundaries.

    Through recovery, meditation, and boundary-building, Barb discovered how to shift from being a reactor in life to becoming an actor—someone who consciously chooses how to respond instead of reacting from fear, anxiety, or old trauma patterns.

    The conversation also dives into the importance of community, mindset work, and challenging negative self-talk, as well as how meditation and nervous system regulation can help retrain the brain toward calm and emotional resilience.

    This episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t mean becoming perfect—it means learning to respond to life with awareness, compassion, and intention.

    Keywords: Barb Nangle, trauma recovery, boundaries coaching, codependency healing, nervous system regulation, people pleasing recovery, meditation for mental health, emotional healing, therapy, mindset work, recovery journey, mental health podcast

    Meet Our Guest — Barb Nangle

    Barb Nangle is a boundaries coach, speaker, author, and podcaster who helps professional women stop saying yes when they mean no and build emotionally healthy relationships.

    After nearly 40 years of therapy and personal development, Barb entered 12-step recovery at age 52, where she discovered that codependency and childhood trauma had shaped her life far more deeply than she realized. Recovery didn’t just add tools—it fundamentally changed how she related to herself and the world.

    Today, Barb helps women build internal safety, stronger boundaries, and emotionally available relationships through coaching, professional speaking, and her podcast, Fragmented to Whole: Life Lessons from 12 Step Recovery.

    Connect with Barb:

    Website: https://higherpowercc.com/
    Podcast: https://higherpowercc.com/podcast/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbnangle/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@higherpowercoaching

    Key Takeaways

    • Trauma can keep people stuck in reactive survival patterns.
    • Boundaries help rebuild internal safety and emotional stability.
    • Healing involves learning to respond intentionally rather than reacting automatically.
    • Meditation and mindset practices can retrain the brain toward calm.
    • Connection and community are powerful tools for recovery.

    Actionable Items

    • Notice when you are reacting emotionally versus responding intentionally.
    • Try a short daily meditation or mindfulness practice.
    • Replace negative self-talk with supportive internal dialogue.

    References Mentioned

    Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA)
    12-Step Recovery Programs
    Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Trauma, fight-or-flight, and survival responses
    • 07:00 – Becoming an actor instead of a reactor
    • 16:00 – The importance of community in recovery
    • 24:00 – Recognizing and interrupting negative self-talk
    • 31:00 – Meditation and nervous system regulation
    • 37:00 – Advice Barb would give her younger self
    • 41:00 – Final reflections and closing thoughts

    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 #TraumaRecovery #BoundariesCoach #CodependencyHealing #MeditationPractice #EmotionalHealing #SelfGrowth #MindsetMatters #HealingJourney #MentalWellness #RecoveryCommunity

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

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    12 March 2026, 7:00 am
  • 41 minutes 17 seconds
    Barb Nangle (Part 1): Codependency, Trauma, and Why Boundaries Change Everything

    What if the reason you struggle with boundaries isn’t weakness—but survival?

    In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with boundaries coach Barb Nangle to talk about codependency, trauma, and the moment that forced Barb to completely rethink how she related to herself and everyone around her.

    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), and 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 4 million downloads and counting.

    Feedback Link Line

    We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:
    https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a

    Mental Health Quote

    “Boundaries are the antidote to codependency.” — Barb Nangle

    Episode Description

    Many people believe boundaries are simply about saying no. But according to boundaries coach Barb Nangle, that’s only a small part of the story.

    In this powerful first half of a two-part conversation, Barb joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to unpack the deeper roots of codependency, trauma, and people-pleasing, and how those patterns shape our relationships long before we recognize them.

    Barb shares the life-changing moment that sent her into recovery: inviting a homeless man into her home in an attempt to help him, only to realize she had completely lost herself trying to rescue someone else.

    That experience led her into 12-step recovery programs, including Al-Anon, Codependents Anonymous, and Adult Children of Alcoholics, where she began to understand how childhood trauma and emotional abandonment had shaped her behavior.

    Through recovery, Barb discovered something profound: boundaries don’t just protect relationships—they create internal safety, allowing us to show up in the world without constantly abandoning ourselves.

    This episode is an honest and deeply relatable conversation about healing, awareness, and what it really takes to break free from lifelong patterns.

    Keywords: Barb Nangle, codependency recovery, boundaries, trauma healing, people pleasing, emotional safety, adult children of alcoholics, therapy, relationship boundaries, self-awareness, mental health recovery, trauma patterns, emotional healing

    Meet Our Guest — Barb Nangle

    Barb Nangle is a boundaries coach, speaker, author, and podcaster who helps professional women stop saying yes when they mean no and build emotionally healthy relationships.

    After nearly 40 years of therapy and personal development, Barb entered 12-step recovery at age 52, where she discovered that codependency and childhood trauma had shaped her life far more deeply than she realized. Through recovery, she developed the boundary-building framework that now forms the foundation of her coaching and teaching.

    Today, Barb helps women create internal safety, healthier relationships, and stronger personal boundaries through coaching, speaking, and her podcast, Fragmented to Whole: Life Lessons from 12 Step Recovery.

    Connect with Barb:

    Website: https://higherpowercc.com/
    Podcast: https://higherpowercc.com/podcast/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbnangle/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@higherpowercoaching

    Key Takeaways

    • Codependency often develops from childhood trauma and emotional abandonment.
    • Boundaries are about understanding what is and isn’t okay for you.
    • Many people confuse helping others with rescuing them.
    • Recovery begins when you stop focusing on fixing others and start caring for yourself.
    • Emotional safety is the foundation of healthy relationships.
     

    Actionable Items

    • Pay attention to moments when you say yes but feel resistance internally.
    • Ask yourself regularly: “Is this my responsibility or someone else’s?”
    • Start identifying what feels emotionally safe and unsafe in your relationships.
     

    References Mentioned

    Al-Anon
    Codependents Anonymous (CoDA)
    Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA)
    Overeaters Anonymous (OA)

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Welcome and why boundaries matter
    • 06:00 – Barb’s work and how she teaches boundaries
    • 13:00 – The story of Dan and the turning point in Barb’s life
    • 22:00 – Discovering Al-Anon and codependency
    • 31:00 – Understanding childhood trauma and emotional abandonment
    • 40:00 – How recovery began transforming Barb’s life

    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 #CodependencyRecovery #HealthyBoundaries #TraumaHealing #PeoplePleasing #EmotionalSafety #AdultChildrenOfAlcoholics #RecoveryJourney #SelfAwareness #MentalHealthSupport #HealingWork

     

    ***************************************************************************

    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio 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.

    10 March 2026, 7:00 am
  • 48 minutes 30 seconds
    Jack Bohannan Explains Attachment Theory and How Childhood Shapes Adult Relationships

    Why do some people crave closeness while others pull away the moment things get too real? In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jack Bohannan to unpack attachment theory, childhood emotional conditioning, and the patterns that quietly shape our adult relationships. The conversation gets real about anxious love, avoidant partners, and how healing attachment wounds can change the way we connect.

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 3.5 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind.

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    Mental Health Quote

    “If we weren’t truly seen as kids, we spend adulthood trying to find someone who will finally see us.” — Jack Bohannan

    Episode Description

    Why do we keep repeating the same relationship patterns—even when we swear we won’t? According to attachment theory, the answer often begins in childhood.

    In this episode, Jack Bohannan joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to break down the psychology of attachment styles and how early relationships with caregivers shape how we connect with others as adults. From secure attachment to anxious, avoidant, and disorganized patterns, Jack explains how these emotional blueprints develop and why they often show up in our romantic relationships.

    The trio explores the familiar push-and-pull dynamic many couples experience—where one partner seeks closeness while the other pulls away. Jack shares how these patterns are often rooted in childhood experiences where emotional needs were either met, ignored, or inconsistently supported. The result? Adults who may struggle with intimacy, emotional vulnerability, or trust.

    But this episode isn’t about blame—it’s about awareness and healing. Jack discusses how attachment styles exist on a spectrum and how people can develop earned secure attachment through therapy, self-reflection, and healthier relationships.

    Along the way, the conversation dives into modern relationship dynamics, the impact of social isolation and digital culture, and why community connection matters more than we realize. Jack also shares personal insights into his journey through relationships, coaching, and the work it takes to truly understand himself.

    If you’ve ever wondered why relationships can feel like an emotional dance—or why you keep attracting the same type of partner—this episode offers powerful insight into the psychology of connection.

    Keywords: Jack Bohannan, attachment theory, attachment styles, anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, secure attachment, disorganized attachment, relationships, emotional intimacy, childhood trauma, therapy, mental health, relationship psychology, emotional healing

    Meet Our Guest — Jack Bohannan

    Jack Bohannan is a somatic coach and relationship educator who helps people understand how attachment patterns shape emotional connection and intimacy. Through coaching and personal development work, Jack guides clients toward healthier relationships by addressing the deeper emotional roots behind their behaviors.

    Website:
    https://polarityunscripted.com

    Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/polarityunscripted

    Key Takeaways

    • Attachment styles are often shaped by early childhood experiences with caregivers.
    • Many relationship conflicts stem from the anxious–avoidant dynamic, in which one partner pursues, and the other withdraws.
    • Avoidant behavior is often misunderstood—it can stem from unmet emotional needs early in life.
    • Healing attachment patterns is possible through self-awareness, therapy, and healthy relationships.
    • Community and connection outside of romantic partnerships are essential for emotional health.

    Actionable Items

    • Reflect on your own attachment style and how it may influence your relationships.
    • Practice expressing your emotional needs clearly rather than assuming your partner understands them.
    • Build supportive community connections outside your romantic relationship.

    Important Chapters

    • 00:01:30 – What Attachment Theory Really Means
      Jack explains the basics of attachment styles and how they shape adult relationships.
    • 00:10:00 – Avoidant vs. Anxious Relationships
      The push-and-pull dynamic is experienced by many couples.
    • 00:16:00 – How Childhood Experiences Shape Emotional Connection
      Why unmet emotional needs can show up later in adult relationships.
    • 00:23:00 – COVID, Isolation, and Relationship Pressure
      How modern life can intensify attachment dynamics.
    • 00:31:30 – Advice Jack Would Give His Younger Self
      The importance of being truly seen and emotionally understood.
    • 00:38:00 – Learning Self-Worth from Within
      Jack shares his personal journey of healing and self-discovery.

    Closing CTA

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    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #AttachmentTheory #AttachmentStyles #RelationshipPsychology #EmotionalHealing #SecureAttachment #AvoidantAttachment #AnxiousAttachment #HealthyRelationships #ChildhoodTraumaHealing #EmotionalWellbeing #RelationshipGrowth

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    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.

    Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles

    Audio Editing by NJz Audio


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    5 March 2026, 8:00 am
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