In the fifth episode, Joanne discusses with Shelly her nervousness, the tendency to overanalyze, and the benefits of physical activities like jiu-jitsu on mental clarity. She shares a humorous and candid personal story about a sexual experience and the misconceptions surrounding it. The conversation shifts to dating, the importance of play in relationships, and the difference between physical and soul connections. Joanne also briefly touches on her ongoing personal work and potential future projects, with a reminder that more about dementia is coming in future episodes.

Joanne and Shelly engage in an insightful conversation about the busy lives of women (busy often equals trauma) and the importance of slowing down to reconnect with nature and solitude. They discuss the impact of losing sight of our surroundings, the significance of nature in their personal lives, and share experiences with their pets. They also delve into topics like the benefits and effects of psychedelic experiences and the challenges of sustaining and discussing intimacy as they age.

In episode three of her series on trauma symptoms, Joanne delves deeper into the psychological concepts of cognitive dissonance, confabulation, and dissociation. She introduces less familiar terms like Domestic Stockholm and Tantalus Complex while sharing personal experiences and discussing how these patterns affect individuals with C-PTSD (I) and neurodivergence. Joanne and Shelly also touch on the complexities of consensual yet harmful relationships, particularly in the context of antisocial personality disorders. They conclude by considering the importance of meaningful connection and challenges within therapeutic settings.

In this episode, Joanne talks with Shelly about their personal experiences with dissociation, abuse/trauma, and how these have shaped their perspectives on life. They discuss the challenges of being dissociative mothers, the effects of trauma, and the coping mechanisms they've used, such as alcohol and cannabis. Joanne and Shelly also delve into their spiritual journeys, touching on intuitive abilities and the broader implications of combining science and spirituality in processing trauma and healing.

In this conversation, Joanne speaks with her friend Shelly, who shares their relationship formed while caregiving for Joanne's mom. The episode explores the connection they felt upon meeting and the knowing that they would be in one another’s lives - not knowing what one another had been through.  It’s a “this time around” connection.  Shelly does not share what she is healing from but suffice to say, Dateline meets Snapped. Shelly delves into experiences with stress, trauma, and the importance of self-care and connection. From discussing cortisol's effects on the body to the significance of maintaining routines and finding ways to cope, this episode offers valuable insights for those dealing with similar challenges.

In this heartfelt episode, Joanne opens up about her journey with weight loss, the healing power of comedy, and her experiences with trauma and recovery. She reflects on her struggles with complex trauma, her mixed emotions from the week, and her ongoing efforts to spare others grief and incite joy, as she applies healing work to continued challenges. Joanne also shares her aspirations for writing a screenplay and her thoughts on the impact of humor in processing painful experiences. Additionally, she touches on her discontent with the finance industry and her hopes to make a difference through helping others, especially children. Join Joanne as she candidly explores her past and continues to grow from all she explores.

In this episode, Joanne speaks to the intricate issues surrounding trauma, CPTSI, and the impact of familial relationships. She shares personal stories and dreams that highlight the rise of rage in women, the challenges of growing up in a large family, and the effects of substance abuse. Joanne also discusses dissociative episodes, coping mechanisms, and the long-term impact of abuse on brain health. Through candid anecdotes and reflections, she continues to discuss the complexities of dealing with abusive relationships, both within her family and in her marriage, and the deep sanity that is required to survive.

In this emotionally challenging and revealing episode, Joanne opens up about her struggles with sibling abuse and the severe impacts of rage/covert attacks.  She recounts a recent disturbing letter from her brother and discusses the impact of these familial relationships on her development of C-PTSI and the influence on her marital choice.  Literally, 50 years of off and on abuse.  Courts do not uphold restraining orders, despite brain injury.  Red Head stands up for herself, and all generations. Joined by a friend, Pam, they explore how their past experiences shaped their lives and relationships. Joanne also references insights from experts, discussing the implications of antisocial personality disorders. The conversation aims to offer understanding, support, and resources for those navigating similar paths.  It is important to Joanne that victims learn NOT to defend themselves, to the abuser, as that is the goal of the abuse.  Reactive abuse makes you look like an abuser, not a victim, and seals your fate in the offender’s mind.

Joanne discusses the complex topic of covert abuse, drawing from a recent podcast. She shares personal experiences of abuse that veered into the antisocial realm and distinguishes between sociopathy and psychopathy. This episode explores covert continuous abuse - via childhood and marital relationships and its subtle, insidious tactics. Joanne emphasizes the importance of recognizing these behaviors and setting boundaries. Boundaries that often make things worse, as standing up can further misconstrue abuse, covert in particular.  Red Head, per usual, acknowledges that abusers are often dissociated themselves - and unlikely to face themselves. She does not wish more pain upon those that hurt, but sides with those just facing what they’ve endured/tolerated. It’s a long journey.

In this episode, Joanne opens up about an unexpected morning ordeal involving her escapist cat, Harry, which triggered a deeper discussion about unexpected events and the freeze response. Joanne continues to try and spare you grief, from sharing her personal experiences with abuse, both overt and covert, and how it has shaped her understanding of trauma-induced codependency. She delves into Peter Walker's insights on complex PTSI (I for injury becoming her preferred word vs. D for disorder) - and the various trauma responses, sparking thoughts on the societal perceptions of abuse towards men and women. Joanne's candid reflections provide a profound look into the struggles of processing root abuse/trauma and the intricate dynamics within abusive relationships that perpetuate it.