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.

  • 39 minutes 47 seconds
    Greg & Michael on Embodied Recovery: Healing Addiction, Trauma & the Inner Child

    When recovery becomes more than just staying sober — when it becomes embodied, lived, and deeply felt — everything changes. In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Greg Vorst and Michael Nolan to unpack addiction, inner child healing, breathwork, and what real transformation actually looks like.

    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 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival.

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

     

    Help Us Bring This Award Home

    We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast.

    If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote.

    Voting is quick and easy:

    • You do not need to sign up for Patreon
    • Once you hit submit, your vote is sent
    Vote here: https://shorturl.at/mpReA

    Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time.

     

    “You don’t have to believe everything you think.” — Greg & Michael

    Episode Description

    In this first half of our conversation, Greg Vorst and Michael Nolan, co-founders of Embodied Recovery in Northern California, share how their personal journeys through addiction, anxiety, trauma, and spiritual crisis led them to build a treatment center rooted in lived experience — not just theory.

    Michael opens up about entering treatment at 20 and the humility of 12-step recovery. Greg shares his unexpected transition from opera singer to therapist after a failed surgery triggered years of physical and emotional suffering. Together, they unpack the wounded healer model and why authentic recovery requires more than clinical knowledge — it requires doing your own work.

    We talk about codependency, emotional regulation, nervous system healing, and the Korean Taoist breathwork practice SunDo — a cornerstone of their daily lives and programming. This episode dives deep into inner child work, identity, validation, and the courage it takes to stop performing and start living.

    If you’ve ever felt like you’re surviving instead of embodying your life, this conversation will hit home.

    Keywords: Greg Vorst, Michael Nolan, Embodied Recovery, addiction recovery, trauma healing, inner child work, breathwork, SunDo meditation, codependency recovery, 12-step program, mental health podcast, anxiety recovery, nervous system regulation, emotional healing

    Meet Our Guests — Greg Vorst & Michael Nolan

    Greg Vorst, LMFT is Co-Founder and CEO of Embodied Recovery in Los Gatos, California. Drawing from psychodynamic therapy, Internal Family Systems, humanistic psychology, and Korean Taoist breathwork (SunDo), Greg helps clients transform addiction and trauma into embodied living and spiritual growth. His personal healing journey began after a failed surgery left him in prolonged suffering, ultimately guiding him into therapy, inner child work, and decades of spiritual practice.

    Website: https://www.embodiedrecovery.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embodiedrecoverycenters/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/embodiedrecoverycenters YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@embodiedrecoverycenters

    Michael Nolan, CADC-II, ICADC is Co-Founder and COO of Embodied Recovery. Sober since August 8, 2007, Michael’s recovery began in Alcoholics Anonymous and evolved into a life of service. Through years of addiction counseling and deep personal work, he now supports clients in integrating accountability, humility, and embodied peace into their recovery journey.

    Key Takeaways

    • Recovery is not just about abstinence — it’s about embodiment.
    • You don’t have to believe every thought that runs through your mind.
    • Codependency drains helpers faster than addiction drains users.
    • Inner child work isn’t optional — it’s foundational.
    • Daily practices create lasting emotional regulation.
    • Healing requires accountability AND compassion.

    Actionable Items

    • Try box breathing or diaphragmatic breathing when anxiety spikes.
    • Notice one self-critical thought today and practice not attaching to it.
    • Identify one daily practice (gratitude, breathwork, journaling) and commit to it for 30 days.

    References Mentioned

    Embodied Recovery — https://www.embodiedrecovery.com/ Melos Center (Nonprofit Partner) — https://meloscenter.org Alcoholics Anonymous — https://www.aa.org/ NAMI — https://www.nami.org/ SAMHSA — https://www.samhsa.gov/

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Welcome + how Greg & Michael met
    • 09:00 – Michael’s early addiction and entering treatment
    • 16:00 – Greg’s spiritual crisis and opera-to-therapy journey
    • 25:00 – Codependency and the wounded healer
    • 35:00 – SunDo breathwork and nervous system regulation
    • 45:00 – Inner child work and reclaiming authenticity

    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 #AddictionRecovery #TraumaHealing #InnerChildWork #EmbodiedRecovery #CodependencyHealing #12StepRecovery #AnxietyRecovery #BreathworkHealing #NervousSystemRegulation #EmotionalWellness #SobrietyJourney #HealingIsPossible #RecoveryCommunity #MentalHealthMatters

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

    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.

    17 February 2026, 8:00 am
  • 33 minutes 41 seconds
    Dr. Kristen Williamson on Neurospicy Brains: Identity, Change & Thriving (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles continue their discussion with Dr. Kristen Williamson, diving deeper into identity, relationships, work, and what it really means to thrive as a neurodivergent adult in a world that wasn’t built for your brain.

    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 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival.

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

    Help Us Bring This Award Home

    We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast.

    If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote.

    Voting is quick and easy:

    • You do not need to sign up for Patreon

    • Once you hit submit, your vote is sent

    Vote here:
    https://shorturl.at/mpReA

    Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time.

    Mental Health Quote

    “We’re different, not less — and understanding your brain can turn overwhelm into empowerment.”
    — Dr. Kristen Williamson

    Episode Description

    Part 2 continues the conversation with Dr. Kristen Williamson, moving from awareness into lived experience. This episode explores how neurodivergence shows up across different stages of life — from childhood to adulthood, through parenting, relationships, work, and major transitions like puberty, hormones, and menopause.

    Dr. Kristen explains how autism and ADHD don’t stay static over time. Instead, they evolve as life demands change. She breaks down why middle school is often when ADHD becomes more visible, how puberty and hormones can disrupt previously effective coping skills, and why adulthood often requires constant recalibration rather than “figuring it out once and for all.”

    The conversation also dives into friendships, marriage, and communication — including how neurodivergent and neurotypical partners can unintentionally clash over clutter, routines, and expectations. Dr. Kristen shares openly about masking, scripts, and the exhaustion of trying to fit into a world that doesn’t always make space for difference.

    G-Rex and Dirty Skittles ask thoughtful questions about inclusion, the workplace, gender identity, and how to support neurodivergent people without reducing them to their diagnoses. This episode is honest, funny, validating, and deeply human — a reminder that neurodivergence isn’t something to outgrow or fix, but something to understand, support, and honor.

    SEO Keywords: Dr. Kristen Williamson, neurospicy, autism and adulthood, ADHD across the lifespan, neurodivergent identity, masking, workplace neurodiversity, sensory overwhelm, relationships and autism, late diagnosis healing, mental health podcast

    Meet Our Guest — Dr. Kristen Williamson

    Dr. Kristen Williamson is a licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, speaker, and creator of neurodivergent-affirming resources. Diagnosed later in life with autism and ADHD, she brings lived experience, compassion, and humor into conversations about identity, parenting, relationships, and mental health.

    Connect with Dr. Kristen:
    Website: http://www.empowermindsolutionsllc.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573292573273#
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowermindsolutionsllc/?hl=en
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwilliamson
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empowerminds.solu?_t=ZT-8uIRNSOAKvW&_r=1

    Key Takeaways

    • Neurodivergence changes as life stages, hormones, and responsibilities change.
    • Coping skills may need to be rebuilt multiple times throughout life.
    • Masking can help you survive, but it comes at an emotional cost.
    • Diagnosis explains behavior; it doesn’t excuse harm or remove accountability.
    • Supportive environments unlock extraordinary strengths in neurodivergent people.

    Actionable Items

    • Reflect on which coping skills no longer work and what might need to change.
    • Practice explaining your needs clearly instead of masking through discomfort.
    • Look for environments — at home or work — where accommodations are normalized.
     

    References Mentioned

    • Neurodiversity in the workplace
    • Sensory regulation and masking
    • Autism and ADHD across the lifespan
    • Neurodivergent-affirming mental health resources
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Part 2 welcome and continuing the conversation
      Picking up where Part 1 left off and expanding the discussion.
    • 04:30 – How autism and ADHD evolve over time
      Childhood, puberty, adulthood, and constant change.
    • 09:00 – Hormones, perimenopause, and emotional regulation
      Why coping skills sometimes stop working.
    • 14:15 – Masking, scripts, and fitting into social spaces
      The exhaustion of wearing a “human skin suit.”
    • 19:00 – Neurodiversity in the workplace
      Why accommodations benefit everyone.
    • 23:00 – Diagnosis versus identity
      Understanding the difference between explanation and limitation.
    • 27:00 – Relationships, clutter, and communication
      Navigating neurodivergent–neurotypical partnerships.
    • 30:00 – Advice to a younger self
      What Dr. Kristen wishes she’d known sooner.
     

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, rate, and review.
    Remember to subscribe for more real conversations around mental health. 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
    #NeurodivergentAdults #AutismAcceptance #ADHDAwareness #LateDiagnosis
    #NeurodiversityAtWork #MentalHealthMatters #NormalizeMentalHealth
    #IdentityAndHealing #Neurospicy

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

    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 February 2026, 8:00 am
  • 39 minutes 53 seconds
    Dr. Kristen Williamson on Neurospicy Brains: Autism, ADHD & Feeling Seen (Part 1)

    What if the things you’ve always called “quirks” were actually your brain asking to be understood? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Kristen Williamson to discuss autism, ADHD, parenting neurodivergent kids, and the deep relief of finally feeling seen.

    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 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival.

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

    Help Us Bring This Award Home

    We’re incredibly honored to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been shortlisted for the Podcast Awards – Best Mental Health Podcast.

    If this show has ever made you feel seen, less alone, or helped you understand your mental health a little better, we’d be grateful for your vote.

    Voting is quick and easy:

    • You do not need to sign up for Patreon
    • Once you hit submit, your vote is sent

    Vote here:
    https://shorturl.at/mpReA

    Winners will be announced on February 28th, 2026. Thank you for being part of this community and helping us break stigma one conversation at a time.

    Mental Health Quote

    “We’re different, not less — and understanding your brain can turn overwhelm into empowerment.”
    — Dr. Kristen Williamson

    Episode Description

    In Part 1 of this two-part episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles welcome Dr. Kristen Williamson, licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, and proud ringleader of a self-described “neurospicy” family. What begins as a conversation about autism and ADHD quickly turns into a deeply validating discussion about identity, masking, sensory overload, and self-acceptance.

    Dr. Kristen shares what it was like to be diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life — and how that diagnosis reframed decades of confusion, anxiety, and self-blame. She opens up about parenting a neurodivergent child before fully understanding her own neurodivergence, and why women are so often overlooked or misdiagnosed.

    Together, the trio talks honestly about sensory overwhelm, everyday burnout, and why “functioning” doesn’t always mean thriving. From food textures and crowds to noise and emotional regulation, this episode gives language to experiences that many people have struggled to explain.

    This conversation isn’t about labels for the sake of labels. It’s about understanding your nervous system, honoring your needs, and letting go of the belief that you’re broken. Part 1 is about awareness, permission, and the power of finally realizing there’s nothing wrong with you — your brain just works differently.

    SEO Keywords: Dr. Kristen Williamson, neurospicy, autism, ADHD, neurodivergent adults, late autism diagnosis, women and ADHD, sensory overload, mental health podcast, parenting neurodivergent kids, masking, self-acceptance, emotional wellness

    Meet Our Guest — Dr. Kristen Williamson

    Dr. Kristen Williamson is a licensed professional counselor, neurodivergent advocate, and speaker specializing in autism, ADHD, and mental health. Diagnosed later in life herself, she blends clinical knowledge, lived experience, and humor to help individuals and families understand their brains and thrive without shame.

    Connect with Dr. Kristen:
    Website: http://www.empowermindsolutionsllc.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573292573273#
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowermindsolutionsllc/?hl=en
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwilliamson
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empowerminds.solu?_t=ZT-8uIRNSOAKvW&_r=1

    Key Takeaways

    • Neurodivergence often presents differently in women and is frequently missed.
    • Late diagnosis can bring relief and grief at the same time.
    • Sensory overwhelm is information, not a personal failure.
    • Masking may help you survive, but understanding helps you heal.
    • Feeling seen can reduce anxiety, burnout, and shame.
     

    Actionable Items

    • Start tracking what overstimulates you, including sounds, textures, crowds, and environments.
    • Build in decompression time after social or sensory-heavy situations.
    • Practice leading with curiosity instead of judgment — especially with yourself.
     

    References Mentioned

    • Neurodivergent-affirming mental health care
    • Sensory regulation strategies
    • Autism and ADHD advocacy concepts
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:00 – Welcome and why this is a two-part conversation
      Setting the stage for a deeper discussion on neurodiversity and mental health.
    • 04:30 – Dr. Kristen’s late autism and ADHD diagnosis
      How adulthood finally brought clarity to a lifetime of unanswered questions.
    • 09:45 – Autism and ADHD in women
      Masking, perfectionism, and why so many women go unnoticed.
    • 15:00 – Sensory overload in everyday life
      Noise, crowds, food textures, and nervous system burnout.
    • 22:30 – Parenting neurodivergent kids
      Advocacy, accommodations, and releasing parental shame.
    • 30:00 – The impact of feeling seen
      Why understanding your brain can change everything.
     

    Closing CTA

    Subscribe, rate, and review.
    Remember to subscribe for more real conversations around mental health. 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
    #Neurodivergent #Neurospicy #AutismAcceptance #ADHDAwareness #LateDiagnosis
    #WomenAndADHD #SensoryOverload #ParentingNeurodivergent #NormalizeMentalHealth

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

    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 February 2026, 8:00 am
  • 56 minutes 25 seconds
    Jeff Luther on Surviving Sudden Cardiac Arrest, Trauma, and Rebuilding Life After Death

    Trigger Notice + Crisis Support

    This episode includes discussion of sudden cardiac arrest, near-death experiences, suicidal ideation, and mental health crises. Listener discretion is advised.

    If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available.
    Call or text 988 (U.S.) — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
    Or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources.

    What happens to your mind when your heart stops and you come back? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jeff Luther, a father and athlete who survived sudden cardiac arrest, to talk about fear, trauma, resilience, and how rebuilding life sometimes starts in 30-second increments.

    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 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to normalize unfiltered conversations about mental health, trauma, and emotional survival.

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “You still choose. Even when everything is taken away, you still get to choose.” — Jeff Luther

    Episode Description

    Jeff Luther was fit and competitive, training alongside his teenage son, when his heart suddenly stopped. No pulse. No breath. Two shocks from an AED brought him back — but life as he knew it was over.

    In this raw and deeply human episode, Jeff joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about surviving sudden cardiac arrest, living with trauma, and the mental health fallout no one prepares you for. From the fear of his own body betraying him again, to the shame of pretending to be strong instead of being honest, Jeff opens up about what it really means to rebuild a life after death.

    This conversation goes beyond survival. Jeff shares what it felt like to truly believe he was dying, why gratitude felt impossible at first, and how resilience didn’t come from pushing harder — but from choosing again and again to stay. Sometimes for a year. Sometimes for a day. Sometimes for just 30 seconds.

    They also explore how trauma reshapes identity, how children carry invisible fear, and why connection — not toughness — is the real currency of healing. Jeff’s story is a reminder that mental health struggles don’t always come from weakness. Sometimes they come from surviving something that should have ended you.

    If you’ve ever faced a life-altering event, lived with anxiety after trauma, or wondered how to keep going when fear takes over, this episode will meet you exactly where you are.

    SEO Keywords: Jeff Luther, sudden cardiac arrest survivor, near-death experience, trauma recovery, mental health podcast, resilience, anxiety after trauma, cardiac arrest recovery, mindset healing, overcoming fear, post-traumatic growth, emotional resilience

    Meet Our Guest — Jeff Luther

    Jeff Luther is a speaker, mindset coach, and sudden cardiac arrest survivor who helps people question the stories they tell themselves and rebuild their lives after trauma. After collapsing in front of his teenage son and being clinically dead for eight minutes, Jeff began a journey of resilience, belief work, and intentional living — 30 seconds at a time.

    Connect with Jeff:
    Website: https://www.jeffluther.com
    Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-inspector-alliance/id1658627241
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdluther2.0/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdluther2.0
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-luther/

    Key Takeaways

    • Surviving trauma doesn’t automatically bring gratitude — it brings reality.
    • Fear often shows up after the crisis, not during it.
    • You don’t have to rebuild your life all at once; sometimes 30 seconds is enough.
    • Strength without connection can turn into silent suffering.
    • Children notice more than we think, even when we try to protect them.
    • Healing begins when we question the stories we tell ourselves.
     

    Actionable Items

    • When overwhelmed, ask: “What can I handle for the next 30 seconds?”
    • Challenge catastrophic thoughts by asking: “Is that actually true?”
    • Check in with loved ones using open-ended questions and listen without fixing.
     

    References Mentioned

    988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org
    Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com

    Important Chapters

    • 00:03:00 – Jeff’s daily rituals and the guilt of slowing down
    • 00:10:30 – Collapsing at the gym and surviving sudden cardiac arrest
    • 00:18:45 – Fear, bitterness, and losing trust in his own body
    • 00:29:00 – Emotional rock bottom and wanting to quit
    • 00:32:30 – The 30-second decision that changed everything
    • 00:38:00 – Trauma, parenting, and the cost of pretending you’re okay
    • 00:47:00 – Being shocked back to life and facing fear again
    • 00:53:00 – Advice to his younger self and the danger of comparison

    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
    #SuddenCardiacArrest #TraumaRecovery #NearDeathExperience #ResilienceJourney
    #AnxietyAfterTrauma #PostTraumaticGrowth #MindsetHealing #SurvivorStories
    #EmotionalWellness #988Lifeline #YouAreNotAlone

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

    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 February 2026, 8:00 am
  • 41 minutes 30 seconds
    Zulma on Trauma, Therapy, and Why You’re Not Broken

    Trigger Notice + Support

    This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation, abuse, cancer, and trauma recovery.
    If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone.
    In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
    For international support, visit: https://findahelpline.com

    What happens when life tries to break you—and you decide not to let it? In this powerful, unfiltered conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with therapist and survivor Zulma Williams to talk trauma, healing, and why you don’t need to be “fixed” to move forward.

    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.

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

     

    Mental Health Quote

    “If you woke up today, your mission in life is not complete.” — Zulma Williams

    Episode Description

    Zulma Williams has survived more than most people can imagine—breast cancer, abusive relationships, depression, and suicidal ideation. But she never saw herself as a victim. In this raw, honest episode, Zulma joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share why survival isn’t about toughness—it’s about truth.

    Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Zulma moved to the United States in her 30s, reinvented herself in midlife, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after cancer forced her to stop and reevaluate everything. Along the way, she learned something powerful: trauma doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you adapted.

    Zulma opens up about emotional and verbal abuse, how subtle control can dismantle your sense of self, and why so many people don’t realize they’re being harmed until they’re already isolated. She also explains why therapy only works when you’re allowed to be fully yourself—swearing included.

    As a Certified Master ART Practitioner, Zulma talks about trauma recovery, nervous system healing, and why short-term, evidence-based therapies can create real change. This conversation is bold, validating, and deeply human—especially for anyone who feels “too old,” “too damaged,” or “too far gone” to start over.

    This episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t require perfection. It requires honesty, courage, and the willingness to honor your own internal hero.

    SEO Keywords: Zulma Williams, trauma recovery, mental health podcast, therapy healing, PTSD support, emotional abuse recovery, anxiety and depression, ART therapy, survivor mindset, suicide prevention, healing trauma, self-worth, resilience, therapy that works

    Meet Our Guest — Zulma Williams, LCSW, ACSW, CTMH

    Zulma Williams is the founder of Dragonfly Therapy Services and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma recovery. A breast cancer survivor and Certified Master ART Practitioner, Zulma brings lived experience, direct honesty, and evidence-based care to help clients stop surviving and start healing.

    Connect with Zulma:
    Website: https://www.dragonflytherapyservices.net/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DragonflyTSLV
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theswearingtherapist
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theswearingtherapist
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulma-williams-ab7609214/

    Key Takeaways

    • Trauma doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you adapted to survive.
    • Emotional and verbal abuse are real, damaging, and often invisible.
    • You’re never “too old” to change your life or start over.
    • Therapy only works when you’re allowed to be your authentic self.
    • Being vulnerable is a strength, not a weakness.
    • You are allowed to choose yourself—even if others don’t like it.

    Actionable Items

    • If therapy doesn’t feel safe or real, give yourself permission to find a better fit.
    • Ask yourself: “Am I honoring my internal hero—or ignoring them?”
    • Notice where you’re minimizing your pain and name it honestly.
     

    References Mentioned

    Important Chapters

    • 00:02:00 – Zulma’s immigration journey and starting over
    • 00:10:30 – Going back to school later in life
    • 00:15:00 – Recognizing emotional and verbal abuse
    • 00:22:00 – Therapy, trauma, and reclaiming your voice
    • 00:30:00 – Why authenticity matters in healing
    • 00:37:00 – Self-care, self-love, and choosing yourself
    • 00:40:00 – Zulma’s message to anyone still struggling

    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 #TherapyWorks #PTSDHealing #SurvivorStory #EmotionalAbuseRecovery
    #AnxietySupport #DepressionAwareness #HealingJourney #InternalHero #ARTTherapy
    #MentalHealthMatters #Resilience #SelfWorth

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

    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.

    3 February 2026, 8:00 am
  • 47 minutes 4 seconds
    Katherine Giovanni on Forgiveness: How Letting Go Gives You Your Life Back

    Trigger Notice & Support Reminder

    This episode includes discussion of suicide, sexual assault, trauma, addiction, and cancer.
    If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, help is available.
    Call or text 988 in the U.S. or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources.

    What if forgiveness wasn’t about letting someone off the hook — but about finally setting yourself free? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Katherine Giovanni to talk about trauma, anger, and how forgiveness can be a deeply personal, life-changing act of self-healing.

    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.

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “Forgiveness isn’t about them. It’s about getting your life — and your peace — back.”
    — Katherine Giovanni

    Episode Description

    Forgiveness gets thrown around a lot — but nobody really teaches us how to do it, or what to do when we don’t want to. In this deeply human and eye-opening episode, Katherine Giovanni joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to flip the script on forgiveness, trauma, and healing.

    A three-time award-winning author, transformation mentor, and stage 3 breast cancer survivor, Katherine shares her powerful personal journey through childhood trauma, addiction, loss, and survival — and how forgiveness became the tool that helped her reclaim her life. Not as a pass for harmful behavior, but as a boundary-setting, self-preserving act of freedom.

    Katherine introduces her practical, step-by-step forgiveness process, including her unique approach to forgiving not only people but also the energy around painful memories. Together, the trio explores why forgiveness is selfish (in the best way), why you don’t owe anyone a relationship, and why some things may never be forgivable — and that’s okay.

    They also dive into forgiving yourself, releasing guilt and shame, and even unpack why our relationship with money often needs forgiveness, too. This conversation is raw, insightful, and unexpectedly empowering — especially for anyone who feels stuck replaying old wounds or carrying anger that’s quietly draining their joy.

    If you’ve ever said, “I’ll never forgive them,” this episode might just change how you think about healing — and about yourself.

    Keywords: Katherine Giovanni, forgiveness, emotional healing, trauma recovery, self-forgiveness, mental health podcast, letting go, emotional freedom, healing from abuse, guilt and shame, boundaries, cancer survivor, addiction recovery, forgiveness process

    Meet Our Guest — Katherine Giovanni

    Katherine Giovanni is a three-time award-winning best-selling author, speaker, and one of the original founders of the independent concierge industry. A stage 3 breast cancer survivor and transformation mentor, she helps people release guilt, shame, and emotional blocks through forgiveness, intuition, and self-awareness.

    Connect with Katherine:
    Website: https://www.katharinegiovanni.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katharine.giovanni
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katharinegiovanni
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0PPtlSUPldGNl9mIRRtAmA
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinegiovanni/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kathgiovanni
    Substack: https://katharinegiovanni.substack.com/

    Key Takeaways

    • Forgiveness is not weakness — it’s a powerful act of self-protection.
    • You can forgive someone without allowing them back into your life.
    • Holding onto anger keeps you stuck in the past; forgiveness restores your freedom.
    • Forgiving the energy around a memory helps stop emotional triggers.
    • Self-forgiveness is often the hardest — and most important — healing step.
    • Healing is a marathon, not a sprint.

    Actionable Items

    • Write a forgiveness list and start with the easiest people first — not the biggest wounds.
    • Practice forgiving the energy around painful memories, not just the people involved.
    • Check in with your body after forgiveness work and pace yourself gently.

    References Mentioned

    Important Chapters

    • 00:03:00 – Why forgiveness is misunderstood and rarely taught
    • 00:06:30 – The truth about forgiving without reconnecting
    • 00:10:00 – Katherine’s step-by-step forgiveness process
    • 00:14:30 – Forgiving trauma, abuse, and the “unforgivable.”
    • 00:23:00 – Why forgiving yourself is often the hardest part
    • 00:31:00 – Forgiving money and breaking old survival patterns
    • 00:38:30 – Freedom, peace, and reclaiming your 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
    #ForgivenessHealing #EmotionalFreedom #TraumaRecovery #SelfForgiveness
    #LettingGo #HealingJourney #BoundariesMatter #CancerSurvivor
    #AddictionRecovery #EmotionalWellness #InnerPeace #HealingTools

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

    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.

    29 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 55 minutes 11 seconds
    Dr. Esther Zeldon on Career Burnout, Anxiety, and Finding Purpose After a Toxic “Successful” Life

    What happens when you do everything right, earn the degrees, land the title, and build security, yet still feel empty inside? In this powerful Season 16 opener, G Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Esther Zeldon to talk honestly about burnout, anxiety, people pleasing, and the moment you realize the life you built is slowly eroding your mental health.

    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.

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

    Mental Health Quote

    “There is no such thing as real safety if you are betraying yourself to keep it.” — Dr. Esther Zeldon

    Episode Description

    Burnout does not always come from failure. Sometimes it comes from success. In this raw and deeply human conversation, Dr. Esther Zeldon joins G Rex and Dirty Skittles to unpack what happens when a lifetime of chasing stability, titles, and external validation leads straight to anxiety, depression, and disconnection from purpose.

    Esther shares her powerful story, from surviving a life-threatening illness as a child, to becoming a high-achieving diplomat and international development professional, to realizing that the “safe” life she built was quietly damaging her mental health. Together, they explore how childhood trauma can disguise itself as ambition, why people pleasing keeps so many of us stuck in toxic jobs, and how fear of failure often hides a deeper fear of finally being honest with ourselves.

    This episode is not about reckless quitting or overnight success. It is about alignment. It is about learning to say no. It is about recognizing that security is often an illusion, and that true safety comes from knowing you can rebuild, pivot, and survive hard seasons without abandoning who you are.

    Esther also opens up about anxiety, financial fear, boundaries, and the realities of entrepreneurship, including losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in contracts and choosing purpose anyway. If you are quietly burning out, questioning your career, or feeling guilty for wanting more meaning in your life, this conversation will resonate.

    Keywords: Esther Zeldon, career burnout, anxiety, mental health, toxic workplace, purpose-driven life, people pleasing, trauma healing, entrepreneurship stress, alignment, emotional wellness, burnout recovery, meaningful work

    Meet Our Guest, Dr. Esther Zeldon

    Dr. Esther Zeldon is a coach, best-selling author, social entrepreneur, and former diplomat dedicated to helping people uncover their unique superpower and live purpose-driven lives. With global experience spanning governments, nonprofits, and communities, Esther blends strategy, science, and compassion to help individuals and organizations create sustainable impact without sacrificing mental health.

    Website: https://beactchange.com
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beactchange/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be.act.change/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beactchange

    Key Takeaways

    • Burnout can come from success just as easily as failure.
    • Anxiety often stems from living out of alignment, not weakness.
    • Safety is often a trauma response, not a true motivator.
    • People pleasing keeps you stuck in toxic environments.
    • Saying no is a mental health skill, not a personality flaw.
    • Purpose is not found; it is remembered.
     

    Actionable Items

    • Write down what safety really costs you emotionally.
    • Identify one boundary you need to set this month and honor it.
    • Ask yourself, am I chasing security, or am I chasing alignment?
     

    References Mentioned

    Purpose-driven coaching and alignment work: https://beactchange.com

     

    Important Chapters

    00:02 - Esther’s childhood trauma and how safety became her driving force 06:30 - High achievement, toxic workplaces, and silent burnout 12:45 - Anxiety, depression, and people pleasing patterns 18:00 - Leaving security and facing fear head-on 25:30 - Financial fear, entrepreneurship, and redefining success 33:00 - Boundaries, saying no, and protecting your peace 40:00 - Purpose, joy, and mental health alignment

    Closing Call to Action

    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 #CareerBurnout #AnxietySupport #PurposeDrivenLife #ToxicWorkplace #EmotionalWellness #BurnoutRecovery #PeoplePleasing #TraumaHealing #MentalHealthMatters #AlignmentOverAchievement #HealingJourney

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

    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.

    27 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 51 minutes 20 seconds
    Choosing Hope Again: G-Rex & Dirty Skittles Reflect on Season 15 and the Power of Healing

    Season 15 reminded us why this podcast exists. In this special season ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down as friends — not interviewers — to reflect on the stories, lessons, laughter, and growth that defined the season, and how healing shows up when you keep showing up for each other.

    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.

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

     

    Mental Health Quote

    “Healing is easier when you’re not doing it alone — sometimes all it takes is someone willing to sit with you in the mess.” — G-Rex

    Episode Description

    This episode is different — and intentional. There are no guests this time. Just G-Rex and Dirty Skittles closing out Season 15 together, reflecting on what they learned, how they grew, and why this podcast has become more than just a show.

    Throughout the season, we heard stories about anxiety, OCD, PTSD, medical trauma, parenting through crisis, creativity as healing, and learning how to advocate for yourself when life doesn’t play fair. But as we looked back, something else stood out just as clearly — the power of connection, humor, and friendship in the middle of hard seasons.

    In this season ender, we talk honestly about growth, boundaries, resilience, and the lifelong work of healing. We reflect on how our guests helped us learn, laugh, and sometimes rethink the way we handle our own mental health. This conversation is about choosing hope, staying curious, and reminding ourselves that it’s okay to still be learning.

    Season 15 comes full circle here — grounded, grateful, and hopeful for what’s next.

    SEO Keywords: mental health podcast, season recap, healing journey, resilience, trauma recovery, anxiety support, PTSD healing, emotional wellness, self advocacy, hope, therapy tools, mental health awareness

    Season 15 Episodes, Air Dates & Lessons Learned

    Friendship Reflection

    As we looked back on Season 15, what stood out most wasn’t just the topics — it was how much we learned together. Every guest taught us something new, challenged how we think, or reminded us that humor, honesty, and connection matter just as much as therapy tools.

    This season reflected the way G-Rex and Dirty Skittles have grown alongside the show — using laughter to cope, learning from other people’s pain, and supporting each other through real life in real time. Season 15 reinforced that healing doesn’t happen in isolation, and friendship can be one of the strongest tools we have.

    Key Takeaways

    • Healing isn’t linear — progress still counts.
    • Humor can be a coping tool, not an avoidance tactic.
    • Friendship and connection matter in recovery.
    • Advocacy and boundaries protect mental health.
    • Choosing hope is an ongoing decision.

    Actionable Items

    • Revisit one episode that resonated and apply one takeaway this week.
    • Use humor or creativity as a grounding tool when things feel heavy.
    • Check in on a friend — healing is easier together.

    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
    #HealingJourney #Resilience #TraumaRecovery #Hope #EmotionalWellness #TherapyWorks #MentalHealthSupport #PodcastCommunity #ChoosingHope #SeasonFinale

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

    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.

    20 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 47 minutes 22 seconds
    Alisa on Trauma Therapy, EMDR, and Healing Without Re-Traumatization

    Trigger Notice

    This episode includes discussions of trauma and past suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised.
    If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S., or visit https://findahelpline.com for global resources.

    What if healing trauma didn’t require reliving every painful detail? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with trauma therapist Alisa Gracheva to discuss EMDR, self-awareness, and how real healing occurs without retraumatization.

    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.

    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 the pain to heal it — you just have to feel safe enough to let it go.”
    — Alisa Gracheva

    Episode Description

    Trauma healing doesn’t have to mean reopening every wound — and in this deeply grounding episode, Alisa Gracheva explains why. Joining G-Rex and Dirty Skittles, Alisa shares her journey from surviving early trauma and immigration upheaval to becoming a licensed trauma therapist specializing in EMDR and nervous-system–informed care.

    Together, they unpack one of the biggest myths about trauma therapy: that you have to relive every painful detail to heal. Alisa explains how trauma lives in the body, not just the mind, and why safety, pacing, and self-awareness matter more than storytelling alone. The conversation weaves through personal healing, therapy, “speed dating,” seasonal depression, grounding practices, and the reality of holding space for others without losing yourself.

    Alisa also shares the hardest lessons she’s faced — including financial loss, burnout, and learning to ask for help — while offering listeners a compassionate framework for change: self-awareness, willingness, and readiness. From boundaries and daily rituals to art, nature, and spirituality, this episode is a reminder that healing is not a destination — it’s a relationship with yourself.

    If you’ve ever felt broken by trauma, exhausted by therapy that didn’t fit, or afraid that healing would hurt more than staying the same, this conversation offers hope, clarity, and permission to do it differently.

    Keywords: Alisa Gracheva, trauma therapy, EMDR, healing trauma, nervous system regulation, mental health podcast, PTSD recovery, self-awareness, grounding techniques, therapy without retraumatization, spiritual healing, emotional wellness

    Meet Our Guest — Alisa Gracheva

    Alisa Gracheva is a licensed trauma therapist, EMDR practitioner, and author dedicated to helping people heal without re-traumatization. Blending evidence-based trauma therapy with spiritual awareness, Alisa supports clients in reconnecting with safety, self-trust, and wholeness after trauma.

    Website: https://since.life/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisa_art/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisa-gracheva-61081670/
    Book: Walking with Spirit: A Sacred Path to Wholeness

    Key Takeaways

    • You don’t have to relive trauma in detail to heal it.
    • Trauma lives in the body — healing must involve the nervous system.
    • Finding the right therapist matters more than sticking with the first one.
    • Self-awareness is the first step toward real change.
    • Boundaries are essential for helpers, healers, and caregivers.
    • Healing is a lifelong relationship, not a finish line.
     

    Actionable Items

    • If therapy hasn’t worked before, give yourself permission to try a different approach.
    • Add one grounding practice to your day (stretching, nature, breathwork, or art).
    • Ask yourself: “What would safety feel like right now?” — and honor that answer.
     

    References Mentioned

    • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy
    • Man’s Search for Meaning — Viktor Frankl
    • The Myth of Normal — Dr. Gabor Maté
    • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org
    • Global Crisis Resources — https://findahelpline.com
     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:02 – Alisa’s journey into trauma therapy
    • 07:30 – Why reliving trauma isn’t required for healing
    • 12:00 – EMDR and trauma stored in the body
    • 19:00 – Self-awareness, readiness, and willingness to change
    • 28:00 – Grounding, nature, and nervous system regulation
    • 38:00 – Boundaries, burnout, and caregiver self-care
    • 45:00 – Advice to her younger self and hardest life lessons

    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 #EMDRTherapy #NervousSystemHealing #PTSDRecovery
    #TherapyWorks #EmotionalWellness #SpiritualHealing #GroundingPractices
    #SelfAwareness #HealingJourney #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.

    13 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 53 minutes 9 seconds
    Amy Koford on Hypnotherapy for Anxiety, Fear, Trauma, and Deep Emotional Healing

    Trigger Notice

    This episode includes discussions of anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised.

    If you or someone you love is in crisis, you are not alone. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For international resources, visit https://findahelpline.com.

    What if anxiety wasn’t your enemy—just old programming that needs an update? In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Amy Koford, also known as The Happy Hypnotist, to talk about fear, trauma, and how hypnotherapy can help rewire the subconscious mind for lasting emotional healing.

    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.

    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 believe every thought you have—especially the ones rooted in fear.” — Amy Koford

     

    Episode Description

    Anxiety has a way of convincing us that control equals safety—but what if letting go is where healing actually begins? In this eye-opening episode, Amy Koford, bestselling author, clinical hypnotist, and motivational speaker, joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to break down how hypnotherapy helps people release fear, process trauma, and find real emotional peace.

    Amy shares her personal journey through depression, postpartum struggles, and life-threatening illness—experiences that shaped her mission to help others heal faster and deeper than traditional talk therapy alone. Together, the trio explores why anxiety often becomes a “security blanket,” how subconscious beliefs shape emotional reactions, and why so many people struggle to quiet their minds at night.

    This conversation dives into how hypnotherapy works with the subconscious mind to reframe trauma, release stored emotional responses, and replace fear with calm, confidence, and clarity. Amy also explains why sleep improves, anxiety eases, and emotional healing accelerates when the nervous system finally feels safe.

    If you’ve tried therapy, medication, or coping strategies and still feel stuck, this episode offers a hopeful, practical alternative. It’s a reminder that you’re not broken—you’re responding exactly how a nervous system learns to survive. Sometimes healing doesn’t come from pushing harder. It comes from reprogramming what’s been running quietly in the background all along.

    SEO Keywords:
    Amy Koford, hypnotherapy for anxiety, trauma healing, fear and anxiety, subconscious mind, emotional healing, mental health podcast, anxiety relief, hypnosis therapy, healing trauma, sleep anxiety, mindset reprogramming

     

    Meet Our Guest — Amy Koford

    Amy Koford, known as The Happy Hypnotist, is a bestselling author, clinical hypnotist, motivational speaker, and CEO of Amy Koford. With thousands of one-on-one hypnotherapy sessions completed, Amy helps people overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, fear, insomnia, and self-doubt by reprogramming the subconscious mind. Her mission is to create a world where love wins over fear.

    Connect with Amy:
    Website: https://www.amykoford.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amythehappyhypnotist/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.koford
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-koford-012637184/

    Key Takeaways

    • Anxiety is often learned, which means it can be unlearned.
    • Fear is not protection—it is outdated programming.
    • Hypnotherapy works by addressing subconscious patterns, not just surface thoughts.
    • You do not need to remember trauma for healing to occur.
    • Letting go of control can be the most empowering step toward peace.

    Actionable Items

    • When anxiety hits, ask yourself: What thought am I believing right now?
    • Practice allowing calm instead of fighting fear; resistance fuels anxiety.
    • Explore alternative healing modalities like hypnotherapy alongside therapy.

    References Mentioned

    Important Chapters

    • 00:06 – Amy’s journey into hypnotherapy and why traditional therapy wasn’t enough
    • 00:12 – Why control fuels anxiety and how to release it
    • 00:20 – Subconscious vs. conscious mind explained simply
    • 00:29 – Trauma storage, memory blocking, and emotional release
    • 00:37 – Why hypnotherapy improves sleep and calms the nervous system
    • 00:45 – Fear as a “security blanket” and how to let it go
    • 00:52 – Amy’s mission: creating a world where love beats fear

    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 #AnxietyRelief #TraumaHealing #EmotionalHealing #SubconsciousMind #FearRecovery #MindsetShift #HealingJourney #MentalWellness #AnxietySupport

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

    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.

    8 January 2026, 8:00 am
  • 40 minutes 25 seconds
    How to Build Emotional Resilience: Susanna Calvert on Healing Trauma and Mental Health

    Trigger Notice

    This episode includes discussion of trauma, mental health challenges, and suicide statistics. If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For global resources, visit: https://findahelpline.com

     

    What better way to kick off 2026 than with a conversation about emotional resilience? In the very first episode of the new year, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Susanna Calvert to talk about healing trauma, reclaiming personal power, and learning the skills most of us were never taught — but desperately need.

     

    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.

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

     

    Mental Health Quote

    “Resilience isn’t about being tough or pushing through — it’s about learning how to come home to yourself after life knocks you down.” — Susanna Calvert

     

    Episode Description

    As the first episode of Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads for 2026, this conversation sets the tone for the year ahead — honest, hopeful, and rooted in real tools for mental health. Resilience is often treated like a personality trait — something you either have or you don’t. But Susanna Calvert is here to dismantle that myth and show why emotional resilience is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened at any stage of life.

    In this deeply thoughtful episode, Susanna joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share how her own experiences with generational trauma, spiritual awakening, and repeated “dark nights of the soul” led her to create the Foundation for Family and Community Healing. Drawing from decades in higher education and well-being research, she explains why grit and “toughing it out” aren’t enough — and how unhealed trauma quietly shapes families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities.

    The conversation explores why emotional education should be as foundational as reading or math, how kids and adults alike benefit from learning resilience together, and why community-wide healing is the missing piece in today’s mental health crisis. Susanna also introduces the concept of the Hero’s — or “Shiro’s” — Journey, offering a powerful framework for turning crisis into growth and hopelessness into meaning.

    This episode is a reminder that healing isn’t about fixing what’s broken — it’s about reclaiming your power, learning new skills, and choosing to grow even when life feels overwhelming. If you’re looking for a grounded, hopeful way to start 2026, this conversation is it.

    Keywords: emotional resilience, mental health healing, trauma recovery, generational trauma, resilience skills, emotional wellness, community healing, childhood trauma, mental health education, personal growth, coping skills, self-healing

     

    Meet Our Guest — Susanna Calvert

    Dr. Susanna (Sanna) Wu-Pong Calvert, MAPP, PhD is the Founder and Executive Director of the Foundation for Family and Community Healing, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching emotional resilience and well-being as learnable life skills. She is also the Founder of Sanctuary of Earth and the Community Director at MentalHealth.com, blending science, education, and spiritual growth to support healing for individuals and communities worldwide.

    Connect with Susanna:
    Website: http://www.HealingEdu.org
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familyandcommunityhealing/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FamilyandCommunityHealing
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanna-wu-pong-calvert-551b616/

     

    Key Takeaways

    • Emotional resilience is a skill — not a personality trait.
    • Unhealed trauma often gets passed down quietly through generations.
    • Grit alone doesn’t heal; awareness and skill-building do.
    • Kids and adults learn resilience best when communities heal together.
    • A crisis can become a doorway to growth when we’re given the right tools.
     

    Actionable Items

    • Notice where you’re “pushing through” instead of checking in with yourself.
    • Practice naming your emotions without judgment — awareness builds resilience.
    • Seek out skill-based mental health resources, not just motivation or inspiration.
     

    References Mentioned

     

    Important Chapters

    • 00:01 – Why resilience must be taught, not assumed
    • 06:40 – Generational trauma and the limits of “being tough”
    • 14:30 – Why schools and workplaces miss emotional education
    • 23:45 – The Hero’s (Shiro’s) Journey as a healing roadmap
    • 31:10 – Social media, overwhelm, and reclaiming personal power
    • 37:45 – Hope, healing, and building a better future together
     

    Subscribe, Rate, and Review! As we step into a new year, we’re grateful you’re here — choosing healing, growth, and real conversations with us. 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 #EmotionalResilience #TraumaHealing #GenerationalHealing #CommunityWellbeing #MentalHealthEducation #HealingJourney #ResilienceSkills #HopeFor2026

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

    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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    6 January 2026, 8:00 am
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