• 38 minutes 57 seconds
    Jacintha Field on Helping Kids Regulate Big Feelings After Trauma

    When life cracked wide open during COVID, separation, solo parenting, and her son’s emotional dysregulation, Jacintha Field didn’t just survive it — she turned it into a mission. In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles talk with Jacintha about trauma, parenting, emotional literacy, and how helping kids feel safe starts with learning to be kinder to ourselves.

    Awards & Downloads Line

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “Every part of you is welcome. Every big feeling has a place.” — Inspired by Jacintha Field

    Episode Description

    When Jacintha Field’s son started school during COVID, her world was already upside down. She was navigating a brutal separation, solo parenting, and the emotional fallout of a child who didn’t yet have the words or tools to explain what was happening inside. His outbursts were intense. Her heart was breaking. And with child mental health waitlists stretching six to twelve months, Jacintha did what so many parents do when there are no easy answers — she went looking for them herself.

    In this deeply honest episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jacintha, a Family and Child Counselor, Art Therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, to talk about trauma, parenting, sobriety, self-compassion, and the messy beauty of learning as you go. Jacintha shares how surviving domestic violence, getting sober, and rebuilding her life helped her understand that healing is not about being perfect. It is about repairing the rupture, naming the feeling, and choosing connection over shame.

    This conversation is for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone who has ever wondered, “Am I messing this up?” Jacintha reminds us that kids do not need perfect adults. They need safe ones. And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can say is, “I’m here. We’re a team. We’ll figure this out together.”

    Keywords: child mental health, emotional regulation, trauma healing, parenting support, self-regulation for kids, emotional literacy, solo parenting, domestic violence recovery, sober healing, mindful parenting, play therapy, child anxiety, family counseling, resilience, Happy Souls Kids.

    Meet Our Guest — Jacintha Field

    Jacintha Field is a Family and Child Counselor, Art Therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, a global mental health platform helping children ages 5–12 regulate big feelings through storytelling, gamified tools, and the voices of athletes and role models they admire. After surviving domestic violence, emotional burnout, and solo parenting through her son’s anxiety and dysregulation, Jacintha turned her lived experience into a mission to help 100,000 children by 2027.

    Website: https://www.happysoulskids.com
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16633spBm7
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacinthafield
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinthafield
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jacinthafield

    Key Takeaways

    • Kids are not “bad” when they have big emotions — they are often overwhelmed and asking for safety in the only way they know how.
    • Self-compassion is not optional in parenting. The kinder we are to ourselves, the safer we can become for our children.
    • Emotional literacy starts small: naming feelings, drawing them, talking about them, and giving kids space to understand what is happening inside.
    • Connection comes before correction. Sometimes a game of Uno does more healing than a lecture ever could.
    • Parents do not have to be perfect. Repair, accountability, and honesty matter more than pretending everything is fine.
    • Healing after trauma can become service, purpose, and something beautiful — but only after we let ourselves move through the mud.

    Actionable Items

    • When your child has a big feeling, pause and ask: “What emotion might be underneath this behavior?” before reacting.
    • Try Jacintha’s circle exercise: draw a circle on paper and ask your child to draw how they feel inside it.
    • Practice repair after rupture. Try saying, “That was my big feeling coming out. I’m sorry. Can we try that again?”

    References Mentioned

    The Red Beast: Controlling Anger in Children with Asperger’s Syndrome — a children’s book that Jacintha referenced as a helpful tool for talking about anger and emotional regulation.

    Happy Souls Kids: https://www.happysoulskids.com

    Raw with Jay Podcast — Jacintha’s podcast focused on real, honest conversations for parents and emotional healing.

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00:37 – Welcome to the Episode G-Rex and Dirty Skittles introduce the show and welcome Jacintha Field, also known as Jay, from Australia.
    • 00:02:04 – COVID, Separation, and Her Son’s Big Feelings Jacintha shares how her son’s intense outbursts during COVID and separation became the catalyst for her work in child counseling and emotional regulation.
    • 00:04:51 – Self-Compassion and Parenting Through Tantrums Jacintha explains how learning to be patient with herself helped her respond more compassionately to her son’s big emotions.
    • 00:06:47 – Therapy, Separation, and Rebuilding Jacintha opens up about attending 26 psychology sessions in one year and how support helped her move through the mud of separation.
    • 00:14:26 – Naming Emotions and Being Real With Kids Jacintha talks about showing up authentically with her child, naming emotions, and letting kids know every feeling has a place.
    • 00:18:04 – Tools for Helping Kids Express Feelings Jacintha shares practical tools like drawing emotions, breaking down the story behind the feeling, and helping children problem-solve without jumping in to fix everything.
    • 00:19:29 – Connection Before Correction Jacintha explains why children need connection, play, and emotional safety before they can respond well to guidance.
    • 00:24:44 – Winning, Learning, and Repairing Ruptures Jacintha talks about reframing failure, emotional dysregulation, and why repairing after a hard moment matters so much.
    • 00:30:58 – Advice to Her Younger Self Jacintha shares what she would tell her younger self: that she is worthy, valid, and never too much.
    • 00:35:43 – Happy Souls Kids and How to Connect Jacintha shares how listeners can find Happy Souls Kids, join beta testing, and connect with her work.
    • 00:37:42 – Final Message for Parents Jacintha leaves listeners with a reminder to be kind to themselves because every parent is doing the best they can.

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ChildMentalHealth #EmotionalRegulation #BigFeelings #TraumaHealing #ParentingSupport #MindfulParenting #SoloParenting #DomesticViolenceRecovery #SoberHealing #SelfRegulation #EmotionalLiteracy #PlayTherapy #ChildAnxiety #ResilientKids #HappySoulsKids

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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.

    19 May 2026, 7:00 am
  • 52 minutes 34 seconds
    Kathryn Henry Turns Grief Into Another F*cking Growth Opportunity

    Kathryn M. Henry joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles for a raw, beautiful, and deeply human conversation about grief, love, resilience, spirituality, and learning how to keep living after losing the person you thought you’d grow old with. Through her memoir A Dime to Say I Love You, Kathryn reminds us that even the heaviest moments can become another f*cking growth opportunity when we meet them with honesty, humor, and self-compassion.

    Awards & Downloads Line

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Trigger Notice + 988 Crisis Reminder

    This episode includes conversations about grief, childhood abuse, suicide attempts, suicidal ideation, cancer, and loss. Please take care of yourself while listening. If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You are loved, wanted, and needed here.

    Mental Health Quote

    “You’re good enough, and you don’t have to prove anything to anybody.” — Kathryn M. Henry

    Episode Description

    Grief can knock the air right out of you, but Kathryn M. Henry shows us that even the most painful chapters can hold love, wisdom, and one hell of a growth opportunity. In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Kathryn, author of A Dime to Say I Love You, to talk about losing her wife Lisa, finding spiritual meaning after death, and learning how to keep showing up when life feels impossible.

    Kathryn shares the story behind the dimes she and Lisa left for each other as tiny reminders of love. After Lisa’s transition following a decade-long cancer journey, those “dime moments” became something even deeper: signs of connection, comfort, and the belief that love does not simply disappear.

    Together, they talk about resilience, childhood trauma, suicide survival, spirituality, vulnerability, self-love, and the kind of healing that does not come wrapped in perfection. Kathryn also opens up about writing her memoir, living in integrity, and bringing her whole self into every room, from personal relationships to corporate leadership.

    This episode is for anyone walking through grief, questioning their purpose, rebuilding after trauma, or trying to find joy again without pretending everything is fine. Keywords: mental health podcast, grief healing, emotional wellness, suicide prevention, spiritual healing, resilience, self-love, LGBTQ mental health, trauma recovery, conscious leadership, grief support, vulnerability, personal growth, healing after loss, finding joy

    Meet Our Guest — Kathryn M. Henry

    Kathryn M. Henry is a writer, spiritual seeker, business leader, and author of A Dime to Say I Love You, a bold memoir that blends intimate storytelling with meditation, reflection, and personal growth practices. After a global career leading technology, operations, and people development at brands including Gap, Levi’s, and Lululemon, Kathryn now works at the intersection of leadership, inner life, social impact, and healing. Her story matters because she reminds us that grief does not have to harden us; it can open us.

    Website: https://kathrynmhenry.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathryn.m.henry
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathryn.henry.94
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrykathryn
    Media and speaking inquiries: [email protected]

    Key Takeaways

    • Grief is not something we “get over.” It becomes part of how we learn to live, love, and grow.
    • Kathryn’s “dime moments” show how signs of love can appear in small, powerful, and deeply personal ways.
    • Resilience is built by surviving what we thought would break us and realizing we are still here.
    • Vulnerability helps us connect in ways that polished perfection never could.
    • Self-love means choosing practices, people, and boundaries that help us stay grounded.
    • Living in integrity means showing up as the same whole person in every room.

    Actionable Items

    • Look for your own “dime moments” — the small signs, memories, symbols, or reminders that help you feel connected to love.
    • When life hands you another f*cking growth opportunity, pause before beating yourself up and ask, “What can I learn here?”
    • Choose one grounding practice this week, like music, nature, meditation, journaling, movement, or calling someone who helps you feel safe.

    References Mentioned

    • A Dime to Say I Love You by Kathryn M. Henry
    • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
    • Global crisis resources: https://findahelpline.com
    • Gayatri Mantra by Deva Premal
    • Michael Bublé
    • Stoic philosophy
    • Buddhism
    • Hinduism
    • Meditation and contemplative practices

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00:37 – Welcome and episode introduction
    • 00:01:38 – Kathryn introduces A Dime to Say I Love You
    • 00:03:18 – The meaning behind Kathryn and Lisa’s “dime moments.”
    • 00:05:11 – Why Kathryn uses the word “transition.”
    • 00:06:20 – Signs from loved ones after loss
    • 00:07:33 – Writing the book to honor Lisa and help others
    • 00:10:06 – Another F*cking Growth Opportunity
    • 00:12:49 – How resilience is built through hard moments
    • 00:16:57 – Choosing joy and holding onto hope
    • 00:19:26 – Vulnerability, self-love, and real connection
    • 00:21:02 – The practices that keep Kathryn grounded
    • 00:26:38 – Sharing trauma, grief, and suicide survival
    • 00:30:10 – Kathryn’s spiritual path and healing practices
    • 00:33:17 – Turning brokenness into hope
    • 00:40:06 – Living in integrity in every room
    • 00:46:03 – Kathryn’s advice to her younger self
    • 00:46:36 – Learning that life gives no guarantees
    • 00:47:51 – Music as a grounding tool
    • 00:49:03 – Kathryn’s spirit animal
    • 00:49:44 – How to connect with Kathryn

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review!
    Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:
    https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #GriefHealing #GriefSupport #EmotionalWellness #Resilience #SelfLoveJourney #TraumaRecovery #SuicidePrevention #SpiritualHealing #HealingAfterLoss #LGBTQMentalHealth #VulnerabilityIsStrength #PersonalGrowth #ChooseJoy #ConsciousLeadership #ADimeToSayILoveYou

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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 May 2026, 1:16 pm
  • 45 minutes
    Unarmed: Joe Smarro on First Responder Mental Health

    Joe Smarro walked away from a Marine uniform, a badge, and a gun belt that almost ended his life, and walked straight into the work of healing himself and the first responders nobody else was checking on. This conversation is about what it really takes to take off the mask, do the work, and become the kind of human who gives other people permission to do the same.

     

    Awards & Downloads

    Brought to you by the 2024 and 2026 award-winning podcast Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, a 2026 Women Podcasters Awards nominee in the Mindset and Mental Health category and honored among the Influential Women 2026 Women of the Year, with 4.5 million plus downloads across 160 plus countries and counting in Season 17.

    Feedback Link

    We'd love to hear what landed for you in this episode. Leave us a voice or text note here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a

    Mental Health Quote

    "There's so much freedom on the other side of your suffering. There's so much freedom on the other side of your fear." Joe Smarro

    Episode Description

    Joe Smarro is a Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Officer, co-founder of one of the country's first Mental Health Units, and the kind of man who'll tell you exactly how close he came to not being here. In this episode, Joe sits down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share the story behind his Emmy-winning HBO documentary Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops, his book Unarmed, and the moment he chose therapy over the gun belt sitting next to him.

    This is a raw, hopeful, and surprisingly funny conversation about childhood trauma, an ACES score of nine, PTSD, persistent depressive disorder, and the addiction patterns that ran his life until he stopped running from himself. Joe shares why he believes therapy is a relationship, and most people just haven't found the right partner yet, why he started attending SLAA meetings at 44, and why he gets up every day, names his alarm clock with affirmations, and practices three points of reflection before his feet hit the floor.

    If you've ever worn a mask so tight you forgot what your real face felt like, this one's for you. Joe gives men, first responders, veterans, and anyone with a hard story permission to stop pretending and start healing. We talk masculine vulnerability, suicide prevention, scars versus scabs, the "selfish AF" approach to wellness, radical self-responsibility, and what it actually looks like to live on the other side of trauma.

    Keywords: first responder mental health, PTSD recovery, veteran mental health, suicide prevention, childhood trauma, ACES score, Joe Smarro, Unarmed book, Ernie and Joe Crisis Cops, masculine vulnerability, de-escalation, police mental health, trauma healing, therapy for men, addiction recovery

    Meet Our Guest

    Joe Smarro is a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Officer, co-founder of the SAPD Mental Health Unit, TEDx speaker, and bestselling Author of Unarmed: De-escalation Techniques to Cultivate Courage, Compassion, and Connection and 12 Laws of Maximizing the Human Experience. He's the founder and CEO of SolutionPoint+, a national consulting firm focused on mental wellness, resiliency, and crisis response training for first responders, public safety, public transit, and corporate clients. When he's not on stage or in a hotel somewhere in North America, you'll find him on the golf course.

    Connect with Joe:

    Key Takeaways

    • Share from a scar, not a scab. Healing first, then teaching. Joe waited until his wounds had closed before he started talking about them publicly, and that's why his story actually helps people.
    • Therapy is a relationship, not a one-time experiment. If the first therapist didn't fit, that doesn't mean therapy doesn't work. It means you haven't found your person yet.
    • "Selfish AF" is not a personality flaw. It's self-awareness, self-love, and self-care so you can actually show up for the people you love.
    • Take radical responsibility for the life you're living now. Bad things happened to you, and they weren't your fault. What you do with them today is.
    • Hope and curiosity keep you moving. Not motivation. Not hustle. Curiosity about what life looks like on the other side of the work.

    Actionable Items

    • Build your own three points of reflection. Each morning, ask yourself where you are, why you're there, and who contributed to you being there.
    • Find three new things you're grateful for every day, and they cannot repeat. This forces you to hunt for the good rather than run on autopilot.
    • Identify the biggest fear holding you back right now and take one small step toward it this week.

    References Mentioned

    • Book: Unarmed by Joe Smarro, available at https://www.joesmarro.com
    • Documentary: Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops on HBO Max
    • TEDx Talk: "I See You" by Joe Smarro on YouTube
    • SLAA (Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous): https://slaafws.org

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 Welcome
    • 02:15 Childhood trauma and the mask
    • 05:04 Behind the book Unarmed
    • 09:05 The gun belt moment
    • 13:22 First SLAA meeting at 44
    • 16:20 Speed dating your therapist
    • 24:21 Joe's morning ritual
    • 29:42 Selfish AF
    • 35:10 Nobody is coming to save you
    • 42:56 Where to find Joe

    Closing CTA

    If this episode moved you, sat heavy on you, or made you finally pick up the phone, we want to know. Leave us a review or share your story at https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews. Listen on your favorite platform or on our website at https://www.goesoninourheads.net. Your story might be the one that unlocks somebody else's prison.

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #JoeSmarro #Unarmed #FirstResponderMentalHealth #PTSDRecovery #SuicidePrevention #VeteranMentalHealth #TraumaHealing #PoliceWellness #MasculineVulnerability #ACES #CrisisCops #BreakTheStigma #TherapyWorks #SelfishAF #HealingTrauma #STGOIOH

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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.

    12 May 2026, 7:00 am
  • 40 minutes 18 seconds
    Part 2: Deane’s Healing: Hypnosis, the Subconscious Mind, and Taking It Back

    What if healing is not about going back and reliving everything that hurt you? In Part 2, Deane shares how hypnosis helped him change the way his mind responds and how that changed everything.

    Awards & Downloads Line

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “You don’t have to relive your trauma to heal it. You just need a new way to respond.” — Deane Benninghoven

    A Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    Burnout is real. So is the moment when you finally slow down.

    Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just crash.

    If you spend most of your time taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care too.

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

    Episode Description

    This is where things start to make sense.

    In Part 2, Deane explains how hypnosis works in a way that feels practical and grounded. No gimmicks. No loss of control. Just a better understanding of how your mind actually operates.

    Anxiety is not random. It is learned. It is your brain trying to protect you based on past experiences. The problem is that those responses do not always match your life today. That is where people get stuck.

    Deane walks through how hypnosis helps you access the subconscious mind, where those patterns live. He also shares simple tools, like creating an anchor, that can help you interrupt anxiety in the moment and start building a different response.

    This part of the conversation is about taking your power back. Not in a loud or dramatic way. In a steady, repeatable way that actually works over time.

    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles ask the questions people are already thinking. What if it does not work? What if you have tried before? What if you feel stuck?

    The answer is not perfection. It is practice.

    Part 2 shows that healing is not about becoming someone new. It is about finally working with the mind you already have.

    Keywords: Deane Benninghoven, hypnosis, hypnotherapy, subconscious mind, anxiety relief, trauma healing, emotional regulation, self-hypnosis, behavior change, nervous system, mental health tools, healing journey

    Meet Our Guest — Deane Benninghoven

    Deane Benninghoven is a hypnotherapist and the founder of Summit Hypnosis NW. He specializes in helping people work through anxiety, chronic pain, and trauma by addressing subconscious patterns. His approach is practical, collaborative, and grounded in real-life experience.

    Website: https://www.summithnosisnw.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summithnosisnw/

    Key Takeaways

    • Hypnosis works by accessing the part of the mind where patterns are stored
    • Anxiety is often a learned response, not a permanent condition
    • You do not need to relive trauma to heal from it
    • Simple tools can help regulate emotions in real time
    • Repetition is what creates lasting change
    • Healing is about building new responses, not just understanding old ones

    Actionable Items

    • Create a simple grounding action you can use during stress
    • Practice reconnecting with a positive memory and how it feels
    • Think about the version of yourself you want to become and take one step toward it

    References Mentioned

    Summit Hypnosis NW
    https://www.summithnosisnw.com/

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 Welcome to Part 2
    • 00:01:00 Anxiety explained
    • 00:03:00 Anchors and emotional regulation
    • 00:06:00 Healing without reliving trauma
    • 00:10:00 Subconscious patterns
    • 00:15:00 Everyday use of hypnosis
    • 00:20:00 Working with kids
    • 00:25:00 Advice to younger self
    • 00:35:00 Closing

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review!
    Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:
    https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #Hypnotherapy #SubconsciousMind #AnxietyRelief #TraumaHealing #EmotionalRegulation #SelfHypnosis #MindBodyConnection #HealingTools #PersonalGrowth #MentalWellness

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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.

    7 May 2026, 7:00 am
  • 35 minutes 57 seconds
    Part 1: Deane’s Story: Trauma, Chronic Pain, and Losing Control

    What happens when your body stops cooperating, and your life starts slipping through your hands? G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Deane to talk about chronic pain, trauma, and what it feels like when everything you built no longer works.

    Awards & Downloads Line

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “I didn’t see a way forward… until I found even the smallest glimmer of hope.” — Deane Benninghoven

    A Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    Burnout is real. So is the moment when you finally slow down.

    Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just collapse at the end of a long day.

    If you spend most of your time taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care too.

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

    Episode Description

    Before anything started to get better, things got really dark.

    In Part 1, Deane shares what it was like to go from building a life as an artist to losing control of his body after a serious car accident. The pain was constant. It was intense. And like many people, he was pushed toward opioids as the answer. That path only made things worse.

    This conversation goes beyond physical pain. Deane talks about growing up with abuse, carrying anger for years, and dealing with the kind of internal voice that tells you there is no way forward. When you lose your identity, your purpose, and your ability to function the way you used to, it messes with everything.

    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles don’t rush past that. They sit in it with him. Because this is the part most people skip. The part where you feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure if anything will actually help.

    But a shift is starting here. Not a big breakthrough yet. Just a moment of curiosity. A small opening.

    Part 1 is about telling the truth about what it feels like to be at your lowest. Because you cannot heal what you refuse to look at.

    Keywords: Deane Benninghoven, trauma, chronic pain, depression, opioid recovery, anxiety, childhood trauma, mental health podcast, emotional healing, identity loss, mental health awareness, healing journey

    Meet Our Guest — Deane Benninghoven

    Deane Benninghoven is a hypnotherapist and the founder of Summit Hypnosis NW. He helps people work through chronic pain, anxiety, and trauma by focusing on the subconscious patterns that drive those experiences. His work is rooted in his own journey through pain, addiction, and recovery.

    Website: https://www.summithypnosisnw.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summithnosisnw/

    Key Takeaways

    • Chronic pain is not just physical. It is connected to emotional and mental patterns
    • Trauma can shape how you see yourself long before you realize it
    • Quick fixes like medication do not always solve deeper issues
    • The way you talk to yourself matters more than you think
    • Change can start with something small, even just curiosity

    Actionable Items

    • Pay attention to your internal dialogue during hard moments
    • Be honest about what you are feeling instead of pushing it down
    • Stay open to different approaches to healing

    References Mentioned

    Therapeutic hypnosis for pain management

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 Welcome and introduction
    • 00:02:00 The accident and what changed
    • 00:04:00 Living with chronic pain
    • 00:06:30 Depression and identity loss
    • 00:08:30 Childhood trauma and belief systems
    • 00:12:00 Discovering hypnosis
    • 00:18:00 Pain and the subconscious

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review!
    Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:
    https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ChronicPain #TraumaHealing #DepressionSupport #OpioidRecovery #AnxietyAwareness #HealingJourney #EmotionalWellness #MentalHealthMatters #SubconsciousMind #PainManagement

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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.

    5 May 2026, 7:00 am
  • 52 minutes 15 seconds
    Shari B. Kaplan on Anxiety, Pain, and the Truth About Plant-Based Healing

    What if anxiety and pain are not problems to eliminate, but signals your body is trying to send you? In part two, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles continue the conversation with Shari B. Kaplan and get real about plant-based healing, nervous system balance, and taking back control of your health.

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “You can use the medicine, but you still have to show up and change your life.” — Shari B. Kaplan

    Community Spotlight and Sponsor Support

    Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards

    We have been nominated for the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset and Mental Health category.

    If this podcast has helped you, we would appreciate your support.

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

    Voting is open through April 30th at 6 PM PST

    One vote per person. Duplicate votes will not count.

    A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    Burnout is real, and so is the moment when you finally slow down.

    Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just crash.

    If you are always taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care, too.

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

    Episode Description

    In part two, Shari B. Kaplan breaks down one of the most talked-about and misunderstood topics in mental health right now, plant-based healing.

    From cannabis to herbal medicine, she explains how these tools can support anxiety, pain, and overall balance in the body when they are used intentionally.

    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles bring their own experiences into the conversation, sharing what it is like to live with anxiety and chronic pain, and how they have navigated different approaches to treatment.

    What stands out most is the reminder that no tool works on its own. Real healing requires participation. Movement matters. Breathing matters. Awareness matters.

    They also talk about humor, how it can interrupt negative thinking, and why learning to shift your internal dialogue can change how you experience your day.

    If you are curious about natural approaches to mental health or looking for new ways to manage anxiety and pain, this episode gives you practical insight in a way that feels real and grounded.

    Keywords: Shari B. Kaplan, anxiety relief, plant medicine, cannabis for mental health, chronic pain, holistic healing, endocannabinoid system, natural remedies, emotional healing, trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, alternative medicine

    Meet Our Guest — Shari B. Kaplan

    Shari B. Kaplan, LCSW, is an integrative mental health and trauma specialist and the founder of Cannectd Wellness, where she combines psychotherapy, plant medicine, and holistic approaches to support long-term healing.

    Website: https://www.cannectd.com
    Meet Shari: https://www.cannectd.com/meet-sharibkaplan
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharibkaplan/
    Instagram (Cannectd): https://www.instagram.com/cannectd/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shari-b-kaplan-lcsw-180b1682

    Key Takeaways

    • Anxiety and pain are signals from the body
    • Plant medicine works best when combined with daily habits
    • Balance in the body supports healing
    • Humor can shift your mindset quickly
    • You have more control over your healing than you think

    Actionable Items

    • Start low and go slow if exploring plant-based options where legal
    • Move your body daily, even in small ways
    • Create a simple “joy trigger” that helps reset your mood
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Reframing negative self-talk
    • 08:00 – Finding joy in small moments
    • 18:00 – Plant-based medicine explained
    • 28:00 – Anxiety, pain, and cannabis
    • 40:00 – Movement and healing
    • 50:00 – Final reflections

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review
    Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:
    https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #AnxietyRelief #PlantMedicine #CannabisEducation #ChronicPainRelief #HolisticHealing #NaturalMentalHealth #HealingJourney #MindBodyConnection #AlternativeMedicine

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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.

    30 April 2026, 7:00 am
  • 42 minutes 51 seconds
    How Shari B. Kaplan Turned Trauma into Purpose Through Holistic Mental Health

    What if the hardest moments in your life were not breaking you, but shaping you? In part one, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Shari B. Kaplan to talk about trauma, identity, and what it really takes to reconnect with yourself.

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “Remember who the fuck you are, because healing starts when you reconnect with yourself.” — Shari B. Kaplan

    Community Spotlight and Sponsor Support

    Vote for Us — Women Podcasters Awards

    We have been nominated for the 2026 Women Podcasters Awards in the Mindset and Mental Health category.

    This one means a lot. What started as real, sometimes messy conversations has grown into a space where people feel seen, heard, and a little less alone. That only happened because of you.

    If this podcast has ever helped you feel understood, even for a moment, we would truly appreciate your vote.

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

    Voting is open through April 30th at 6 PM PST

    How to vote:
    1. Click the link
    2. Select the vote button
    3. Complete the form

    Only one vote per person and email is allowed, and duplicates will not count.

    Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

    A Quick Word From Our Sponsor — Cozy Earth

    We talk a lot on this show about burnout, anxiety, and carrying too much for too long.

    Cozy Earth is about what happens when you finally slow down, when you finally get a moment to breathe.

    Their robes and slippers are designed to feel like they exhale at the end of a long day. Soft, simple, and made for real life.

    Think about the people in your life who give everything. When was the last time they felt taken care of?

    This is your reminder that comfort matters, and you deserve it too.

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

    Episode Description

    Shari B. Kaplan does not just talk about healing; she has lived it, worked through it, and built her life around helping others do the same.

    In this first part of a two-part conversation, she sits down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how early life experiences, including head trauma and personal challenges, shaped the way she understands mental health today.

    From discovering meditation at a young age to navigating dyslexia, performance pressure, and difficult life decisions, Shari walks us through the moments that changed everything. What stands out most is her belief that we have more choice than we think, even when life feels overwhelming.

    This episode also challenges the way most people think about meditation. It is not about sitting still or clearing your mind. It is about finding something that works for your brain, your body, and your reality.

    The conversation also gets real about therapy. How do you find the right person? What questions should you ask? And why does the right fit matter so much?

    If you have ever felt disconnected, stuck, or unsure where to start, this episode brings it back to something simple. Start where you are, stay curious, and give yourself permission to figure it out.

    Keywords: Shari B. Kaplan, trauma healing, holistic mental health, meditation, ADHD, emotional healing, mind body connection, therapy, nervous system regulation, self awareness, mental wellness, identity, healing journey, mindfulness

    Meet Our Guest — Shari B. Kaplan

    Shari B. Kaplan, LCSW, is an integrative mental health and trauma specialist and the founder of Cannectd Wellness, a holistic mental health and plant medicine center in Florida. With more than 30 years of experience, she blends psychotherapy, trauma protocols, plant medicine, and mind-body practices to support full mind-body-spirit healing.

    Website: https://www.cannectd.com
    Meet Shari: https://www.cannectd.com/meet-sharibkaplan
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharibkaplan/
    Instagram (Cannectd): https://www.instagram.com/cannectd/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shari-b-kaplan-lcsw-180b1682

    Key Takeaways

    • Healing starts when you reconnect with who you are
    • Meditation should work for your brain, not against it
    • Trauma lives in the body, but so does healing
    • You have more control over your day than you think
    • The right therapist can change everything

    Actionable Items

    • Try different styles of meditation until something feels right
    • Set one intention each morning for how you want your day to feel
    • Talk to more than one therapist before choosing who to work with

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Meet Shari B. Kaplan
    • 03:00 – Early trauma and discovering meditation
    • 10:00 – Rethinking meditation for ADHD
    • 18:00 – Finding the right therapist
    • 25:00 – Setting intentions and mindset
    • 35:00 – Responding instead of reacting

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review
    Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our website:
    https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #TraumaHealing #HolisticMentalHealth #MeditationPractice #ADHDAwareness #MindBodyHealing #EmotionalWellness #TherapyJourney #HealingTools #MentalWellness

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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.

    28 April 2026, 7:00 am
  • 27 minutes 46 seconds
    The Invisible Rulebook

    What happens when you’re doing everything “right”… but it still feels wrong? In this powerful podcast swap, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles bring you Renee Swanson from The Covert Narcissism Podcast as she breaks down the invisible rules that quietly shape toxic relationships—and why none of it was ever your fault.

    Awards & Downloads Line

    Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries.

    Feedback Link Line

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “Healthy relationships do not require you to memorize a rulebook just to exist.” — Renee Swanson

    Episode Description

    This episode hits differently—and that’s intentional. As part of a podcast swap, we’re sharing an episode from Renee Swanson, host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast, and it’s one that puts words to something so many people feel but struggle to explain.

    Renee dives deep into what she calls “the invisible rulebook”—the unspoken, ever-changing expectations that shape unhealthy relationships. These aren’t normal compromises or shared agreements. These are confusing, often contradictory rules that leave you constantly second-guessing yourself, walking on eggshells, and feeling like you’re always getting it wrong… even when no one ever told you what “right” was.

    Through real stories from her community, Renee highlights how these dynamics show up in everyday life—what seems small on the surface becomes a source of tension, blame, or control. Over time, this creates a cycle of hypervigilance, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion.

    What makes this conversation so powerful is the clarity it brings. It’s not about the rules themselves—it’s about the environment they create. A lack of mutual respect, flexibility, and emotional safety slowly erodes your sense of self.

    This episode is a reminder that if something feels off, there’s a reason. And more importantly, it’s not you.

    Keywords: covert narcissism, invisible rules, emotional abuse, toxic relationships, self-doubt, gaslighting, relationship anxiety, boundaries, emotional manipulation, mental health awareness, healing journey, self-trust, trauma recovery, personal growth

    Meet the Host — Renee Swanson

    Renee Swanson is the host of The Covert Narcissism Podcast and a coach dedicated to helping individuals understand and heal from emotionally manipulative and narcissistic relationship dynamics. Through her work, she brings clarity to confusion and empowers people to rebuild trust in themselves after years of self-doubt.

    Website: https://covertnarcissism.com/

    Key Takeaways

    • The problem isn’t the “rules”—it’s the environment they create
    • Feeling like you’re always wrong is often a conditioned response, not reality
    • Control in toxic relationships often hides in small, everyday interactions
    • Double standards are a major red flag in unhealthy dynamics
    • Self-doubt grows when you’re constantly managing someone else’s reactions
    • Healthy relationships allow space for two humans to exist without shrinking
     

    Actionable Items

    • When you feel self-doubt, ask: “Are the expectations clear—or constantly changing?”
    • Practice noticing where you feel calm vs. where you feel like you’re “performing.”
    • Remind yourself daily: “I don’t need a rulebook to exist in a healthy relationship.”
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00:00 – G-Rex introduces the podcast swap and the concept of “getting it wrong.”
    • 00:01:07 – Renee explains the invisible rulebook and community-driven stories
    • 00:04:00 – Why it’s not about the rules—it’s about the environment
    • 00:07:00 – Real-life examples of no-win scenarios in relationships
    • 00:12:00 – The emotional toll of constantly anticipating someone else’s needs
    • 00:17:00 – Control disguised as preferences and everyday habits
    • 00:21:00 – How small rules create long-term psychological impact
    • 00:23:00 – The erosion of identity and confidence over time
    • 00:24:40 – The truth: you were never the problem
    • 00:25:00 – What healthy relationships actually look like
     

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review!
    Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website:
    https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews

    #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #CovertNarcissism #ToxicRelationships #EmotionalAbuseRecovery #GaslightingAwareness #SelfTrust #HealingJourney #BoundariesMatter #RelationshipDynamics #EmotionalWellbeing #TraumaHealing #PodcastSwap #SelfWorth #MentalHealthEducation

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

    If You Need Support, Reach Out

    If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference.

    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 April 2026, 4:49 pm
  • 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.

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    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
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