In Episode 72 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Jimmy from the H.O.F.F.A. Foundation to share his inspiring journey of resilience and transformation. Jimmy opens up about his experience in the music industry, where the fast-paced lifestyle and widespread substance use played a significant role in his struggles with addiction. He discusses the challenges of chronic relapse, the toll it took on his life, and what ultimately helped him achieve long-term sobriety. Jimmy also shares how these experiences inspired him to create the H.O.F.F.A. Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting others in their recovery journeys. This episode offers a raw and honest look at the intersection of addiction and the music scene, the power of persistence, and the importance of community in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.

In Episode 71 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Shelly, a courageous advocate who turned her personal tragedy into a mission of hope. Shelly shares the story of losing her brother to a heroin overdose laced with fentanyl—a devastating moment that changed her life forever. Through her grief, she found strength and purpose, launching a nonprofit in her brother's name dedicated to helping those struggling with addiction access the resources they need for recovery. Shelly opens up about her journey of processing loss, gaining a deeper understanding of addiction, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding substance use.

In Episode 70 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Jasper, a trans man, to share his deeply personal journey. Jasper opens up about his identity and the challenges he has faced, delving into the effects of the current political climate on the queer and trans community. He reflects on the influence of religion in his life, the complexities of coming out, and his journey toward feeling comfortable in his own body. Jasper also shares his perspective on how society perceives him and the resilience it takes to navigate these experiences. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to authenticity and strength, shining a light on the unique challenges and triumphs of being trans in today’s world. Don’t miss this insightful episode as we continue breaking stigmas and sharing stories that matter.

In Episode 69 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Layne to dive deep into her personal journey navigating the challenges of OCD, the impact of COVID-19 on her mental health, and her path to overcoming an eating disorder. Layne shares candidly about how her need for control influenced her struggles and how she’s found ways to heal and thrive. Join us for this heartfelt conversation as we break down the stigmas surrounding mental health and eating disorders, while gaining insights into resilience, self-awareness, and recovery.

In Episode 68 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Indiyah who shares her personal story of losing her brother to an overdose. She talks about the stigma and shame she faced in the aftermath, how she’s navigated her grief, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Indiyah also offers valuable insights on how we can better support people dealing with addiction and their families. It’s an honest and important conversation about loss, resilience, and showing up for one another.

In Episode 66 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Caitlin, a Baltimore local, to discuss her journey with mental health and the stigma that comes with it. Caitlin shares her deeply personal experience with bipolar disorder, opening up about her first bipolar episode and the challenges that followed. Together, they explore the stigma around addiction, the impact it has had on Caitlin’s life, and her ongoing journey toward healing and self-acceptance.They also dive into the complex and often controversial topic of gender identity. Caitlin shares her perspective and experiences with gender, adding to an open, honest conversation about identity, mental health, and the importance of self-discovery. This episode is a heartfelt and unfiltered look at living authentically in the face of stigma, as Caitlin and Laisha strive to break down barriers and offer support to those on similar paths.

In Episode 66 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Eliza Foltz from Pretaa to share her powerful story. Eliza opens up about her experience with methadone maintenance, the challenges of slowly tapering off the medication, and her perspective on the recovery debate—what does "recovery" truly mean? She also delves into her personal struggles with DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services) and the impact it's had on her and her children. Tune in for an honest, raw conversation about the complexities of addiction, recovery, and navigating the system.

In Episode 65 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with host of 'The Horror Virgin' podcast Todd Schlosser for an in-depth conversation on the complexities of creativity, imposter syndrome, and the struggles of living authentically. Todd opens up about the grief of losing his brother and how therapy played a crucial role in his healing journey. Also touching on the emotional weight of the upcoming 2024 election, diving into how societal pressures shape our mental health. Together, they explore how to embrace your creative self while tackling life's most personal challenge. Tune in for a raw, honest conversation that sheds light on the stigmas surrounding mental health, therapy, and the art of navigating life’s hardest moments.

In Episode 64 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Nik Kellerman for an honest, open, and casual conversation about where they are right now in their mental health journey. They dive deep into the challenges of dealing with the loss and grief of a close friend, the role of spirituality in healing, and the ways they both cope with life’s ups and downs. They also discuss how much has changed from early recovery to now, navigating family dynamics, and more. Tune in for a heartfelt and insightful discussion that breaks down stigmas and sheds light on the complexities of mental health and recovery.

In Episode 63 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Rick Glass, a Marine Corps veteran who shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism and finding healing through the use of medical marijuana. Rick opens up about his struggles with PTSD and how traditional treatments fell short, leading him to explore cannabis as a medicinal alternative. Now a passionate advocate, Rick aims to break the stigma surrounding the use of marijuana as medicine, especially for veterans and those battling mental health challenges. He also discusses his views on the over-prescription of medications by doctors and how medical marijuana has played a crucial role in his recovery from alcoholism. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that challenges misconceptions and offers a fresh perspective on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.