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In this special episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg engages in a profound discussion with veterans Garret Biss and Marie Slider Henriksen about the unique mental health challenges faced by military personnel and veterans. They explore the impact of childhood trauma, the transition from military to civilian life, and the alarming rates of suicide within the military community. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support, therapy, and creative expression in the healing process, while also highlighting the potential for post-traumatic growth. Through personal stories and insights, the guests provide hope and encouragement for those struggling with mental health issues.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast
01:01 Meet the Experts: Garret and Marie
02:59 Understanding Military and Veteran Mental Health
06:08 Personal Journeys: Trauma and Recovery
08:58 The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Military Service
12:09 Transitioning Back to Civilian Life
15:04 The Role of Connection and Meaning in Mental Health
18:14 The Reality of Veteran Suicide
20:58 Support Systems and Resources for Veterans
23:19 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact
30:06 The Journey of Recovery and Self-Discovery
36:18 The Power of Perspective and Mindset
43:40 Post-Traumatic Growth and Continuous Healing
Resources
IMMEDIATE SUPPORT:
911
988 veterans dial 1
VA RESOURCES:
Hope Box
https://www.research.va.gov/research_in_action/Virtual-Hope-Box-smartphone-app-to-prevent-suicide.cfm
Vet Centers
https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Samhsa.gov
SUICIDE AWARENESS/PREVENTION:
Prevent 22
https://www.prevent22.org/
Til Valhala Project
https://tilvalhallaproject.com/
Heros in the Sky
https://heroesinthesky.org/
SUPPORT PROGRAMS:
Operation Combat Boots
https://operationcombatboots.com/
Wounded Warrior Project/ WWP talk program
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
Armed Services Art Project
Team RWB
Irreverent Warriors
Behind the Lava Lava
Continue Mission
PODCAST FOR VETERANS OR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT:
Everyday's a Saturday-USMC Veteran
https://linktr.ee/every_days_a_saturday_usmc_vet
One Moment Podcast
https://onemoment.chain.box
Phoenix Wisdom with Janet Sandberg
https://www.janetsandberg.com/phoenixwisdompodcast
CLINICAL INFORMATION:
VA.gov | Veterans Affairs
Left side drop down: MIRECC/COE
-VISN 19 Rocky Mountain
-For providers
"I felt like a fraud." - Brian Sachetta
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with mental health advocate Brian Sachetta about his personal journey through depression, grief, and recovery. Brian shares his experiences with major depressive disorder and the impact of losing his grandmother, as well as the importance of understanding mental health through the biopsychosocial model. The conversation emphasizes the significance of finding agency, taking small actions towards recovery, and the power of love and solidarity in supporting those struggling with mental health challenges.
Brian is the author of two books:
Get Out of Your Head: A Toolkit for Living with and Overcoming AnxietyGet Out of Your Head Vol. 2: Navigating the Abyss of Depression
Your host, Janet Sandberg, offers support for mind, body, and soul. Through Reiki, channelled Soul Conversations, and trauma-informed coaching, she helps you discover who you are, why you’re here, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with confidence and clarity. With a deep commitment to mental health and her own lived experience in grief, resilience, and personal growth, Janet creates a safe, compassionate space for insight, healing, and transformation that is available to everyone, regardless of location.
Book a free discovery call with Janet
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Advocacy
01:08 Brian's Journey with Mental Health
02:17 The Onset of Depression
04:39 Nostalgia and Existential Crisis
07:31 The Email Incident and Its Impact
10:18 The Spiral into Nihilism
13:30 The Struggle with Suicidal Thoughts
16:45 Coping with Grief and Loss
19:16 Finding Hope Through Literature
21:07 Understanding Depression: The Bio-Psycho-Social Model
22:23 Navigating Grief and Depression
23:00 The Quest for Meaningful Work
25:25 The Mind's Battle: Anxiety and Depression
27:21 Rebuilding Life After Loss
28:48 Finding Beauty in Life's Small Moments
30:52 The Importance of Connection and Agency
35:10 Embracing Change and Self-Compassion
39:05 The Power of Perspective and Support
44:04 A Message of Love and Solidarity
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: mental health, depression, grief, resilience, advocacy, personal growth, biopsychosocial model, agency, hope, recovery, suicidal ideation, anxiety
"I was missing something." - Garret Biss
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Garrett Biss - Veteran, TEDX Speaker, Award-winning Author, Coach, and Respected Thought-Leader in the Addiction Recovery Industry. Janet and Garret discuss his journey from military service to civilian life, the challenges he faced during his transition, and the importance of understanding trauma, connection, and authenticity. Garrett shares insights on how veterans often struggle with identity loss and the need for meaningful connections, emphasizing that everyone is lovable and acceptable just as they are. The conversation highlights the significance of addressing mental health issues and encourages listeners to seek support and understanding.
Your host, Janet Sandberg, offers support for mind, body, and soul. Through Reiki, channelled Soul Conversations, and trauma-informed coaching, she helps you discover who you are, why you’re here, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with confidence and clarity. With a deep commitment to mental health and her own lived experience in grief, resilience, and personal growth, Janet creates a safe, compassionate space for insight, healing, and transformation.
Book a free discovery call with Janet
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast
01:10 Garrett's Military Background and Transition Challenges
03:18 Exploring Dark Times and Mental Health Struggles
08:37 Understanding Trauma and Military Transition
11:49 The Importance of Connection and Meaning
15:56 The Role of Authenticity in Recovery
19:33 Post-Traumatic Growth and Its Significance
23:10 Finding Help and Reconnecting with Self
29:45 Encouragement for Those Struggling
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: veterans, mental health, trauma, addiction recovery, personal growth, authenticity, connection, meaning, resilience, coaching, suicidal ideation, suicide prevention
"You get to decide how you operate." - Derek Newborn
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Derek Newborn, a transformational coach who shares his journey from a troubled past filled with abandonment and self-sabotage to a life dedicated to helping others heal. Derek discusses the importance of taking ownership of one's life, understanding the roots of self-sabotage, and reconnecting with the inner child to rediscover joy and purpose. He emphasizes that healing is a process of removing burdens rather than becoming someone new, and encourages listeners to explore their own paths to transformation.
Your host, Janet Sandberg, offers support for mind, body, and soul. Through Reiki, channelled Soul Conversations, and trauma-informed coaching, she helps you discover who you are, why you’re here, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with confidence and clarity. With a deep commitment to mental health and her own lived experience in grief, resilience, and personal growth, Janet creates a safe, compassionate space for insight, healing, and transformation.
Book a free discovery call with Janet
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Transformation Coaching
01:18 Derek's Journey to Healing
06:14 Taking Ownership of One's Life
11:50 Reconnecting with the Inner Child
17:05 Balancing Adult Responsibilities with Joy
22:27 Finding Hope in Dark Times
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: transformation, healing, self-sabotage, ownership, inner child, mental health, personal growth, emotional healing, coaching, empowerment, addiction, recovery, suicidal ideation, suicide prevention, joy
My 100th Episode! Thank you so much for continuing to listen and for supporting the podcast. I wouldn't be here without you.
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Randi-Lee Bowslaugh, an author, YouTuber, and mental health advocate. She has written over 10 books and openly shares her struggles so others don't feel alone. On the podcast, Randi-Lee talks about her transformative journey through mental health challenges, including depression and autism. She shares her experiences from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the importance of community support, the struggles of motherhood, and the impact of receiving an autism diagnosis. She emphasizes the significance of reaching out for help and the power of self-acceptance in navigating life's challenges.
Your host, Janet Sandberg, offers support for mind, body, and soul. Through Reiki, channelled Soul Conversations, and trauma-informed coaching, she helps you discover who you are, why you’re here, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with confidence and clarity. With a deep commitment to mental health and lived experience in grief, resilience, and personal growth, Janet creates a safe, compassionate space for insight, healing, and transformation.
Book a free discovery call with Janet
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Transformation
02:00 Journey Through Darkness
09:05 Finding Light in Youth Groups
10:29 Navigating Teenage Challenges
18:58 Becoming a Parent and New Beginnings
21:30 Journey into Psychology and Social Services
22:59 Navigating Parenting Challenges and Mental Health
25:34 The Impact of Therapy and Medication
27:27 Coping with Cancer and Family Crisis
30:01 Discovering Autism and Self-Understanding
34:01 Embracing Neurodiversity and Self-Care
36:25 Advice for Those Struggling with Mental Health
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: mental health, depression, autism, personal growth, resilience, transformation, parenting, therapy, self-discovery, suicide prevention, neurodivergent, suicidal ideation
"There is always hope in the fight." - Marie Slider Henriksen
In this episode, Marie Slider Henriksen shares her profound journey of healing from trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles. From her experiences in foster care and the military to her battles with alcoholism and PTSD, Marie's story is one of resilience and hope. She discusses the importance of seeking help, the therapeutic power of writing poetry, and the significance of community support in recovery. Through her journey, she emphasizes the need to confront one's past, establish boundaries, and discover self-worth beyond external validation. Marie's message is clear: even in the darkest moments, there is always hope and a path to healing.
Your host, Janet Sandberg, offers support for mind, body, and soul. Through Reiki, channelled Soul Conversations, and trauma-informed coaching, she helps you discover who you are, why you’re here, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with confidence and clarity. With a deep commitment to mental health and lived experience in grief, resilience, and personal growth, Janet creates a safe, compassionate space for insight, healing, and transformation.
Book a free discovery call with Janet
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Marie's Journey
03:01 Facing Childhood Trauma and Addictions
05:55 Military Experience and Its Impact
08:56 Turning Point: The Last Drunk
11:59 The Struggles of Early Recovery
14:52 Confronting Trauma in the Psych Unit
18:04 Spiritual Awakening and Transformation
21:02 Navigating Recovery and Self-Discovery
22:07 Struggles with Mental Health and Food Addiction
24:09 Cognitive Processing Therapy: A Turning Point
26:55 Navigating Medication and Mental Health Crises
28:49 Physical Health Challenges and Recovery
30:39 Finding Answers: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Diagnosis
32:40 Facing Death and Relational Trauma
34:54 Intensive Outpatient Program: A Safe Space
37:42 Discovering Self-Worth and Purpose
40:37 Finding Beauty in Darkness and Hope
42:16 A Message of Hope for Those Struggling
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: trauma, recovery, mental health, addiction, poetry, hope, healing, PTSD, self-worth, support, army veteran, foster care, abuse, rape, military trauma, alcoholism, addiction, physical disabilities, emotional disabilities
"It was just endless peace." - Meera Ishaya
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Meera, an Ishaya monk, author, and spiritual coach. Meera shares her transformative journey from chronic pain and suffering to finding peace and purpose through mindfulness and presence. She discusses the importance of community, the power of self-discovery, and how to navigate life's challenges with a new perspective. Meera emphasizes that pain can be a teacher and that healing is possible through awareness and connection with oneself.
Janet Sandberg offers support for mind, body, and soul. Through Reiki, channelled Soul Conversations, and trauma-informed coaching, she helps you discover who you are, why you’re here, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with confidence and clarity. With a deep commitment to mental health and lived experience in grief, resilience, and personal growth, Janet creates a safe, compassionate space for insight, healing, and transformation.
Book a free discovery call with Janet
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mira's Journey
05:05 The Struggles of Chronic Pain
10:39 A Transformative Experience
11:38 Finding the Ishayas
15:22 The Power of Presence
19:00 The Importance of Community
29:20 Advice for Those Struggling
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: chronic pain, mindfulness, spiritual coaching, transformation, mental health, meditation, self-discovery, presence, healing, community, suicide awareness, suicide prevention, suicidal ideation, chronic pain
"Hope lives, shame kills." - Diane Kaufman
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg interviews Diane Kaufman, a retired child psychiatrist and founder of the Hold On campaign for suicide prevention. Diane shares her personal journey through mental health struggles, including a suicide attempt during medical school, and how her experiences shaped her professional path. The conversation explores the power of art and poetry as tools for healing and connection, the importance of support systems, and the initiatives of the Hold On campaign to promote mental health awareness through creative expression. Diane emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health and the role of community engagement in preventing suicide.Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Diane Kaufman
02:21 Diane's Journey in Psychiatry and Art
05:24 Personal Struggles with Mental Health
08:16 The Impact of Poetry on Healing
11:17 Tragic Losses and Their Effects
14:16 Creative Lifelines and the Hold On Campaign
17:22 Understanding the Roots of Mental Health Issues
20:40 The Weight of Shame and Isolation
24:31 The Birth of the Hold On Campaign
30:05 Art as a Healing Tool
35:24 Connecting Through Creativity
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: mental health, suicide prevention, art therapy, poetry, child psychiatry, creative expression, healing, support systems, community engagement, resilience
"I celebrate life every day." - Koya Bakare
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Koya Bakare, a model, pageant queen, and survivor of trauma. Koya shares her journey of overcoming sexual assault, bulimia, and suicide attempts, emphasizing the importance of therapy, self-love, and empowerment. She discusses how her mother's support and her experiences in pageantry helped her find her voice and advocate for others. Koya encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories and reminds them that healing is possible, urging them to take control of their narratives and celebrate life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Koya's Journey
01:43 Overcoming Childhood Trauma
06:56 The Role of Therapy in Healing
14:04 Finding Self-Love and Empowerment
19:31 Embracing Pageantry and Advocacy
23:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery
26:51 Healing Through Vulnerability
29:10 Creating Your Own Narrative
31:58 The Power of Words and Self-Expression
35:41 Embracing Your Unique Story
38:35 Finding Joy in the Present Moment
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: trauma, healing, self-love, empowerment, pageantry, mental health, resilience, therapy, personal growth, advocacy, suicidal ideation, suicide prevention, bulimia, eating disorder, trauma
"It's not a one-time choice." - Shuang-Min Chang
In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Shuang-Min Chang, a lifestyle coach and holistic success activator. Shuang-Min shares her journey from a successful corporate career in fashion to overcoming depression and finding her true self. She discusses the importance of personal development, the challenges of living abroad, and the significance of community and connection in navigating life's uncertainties. The conversation emphasizes the power of choice in shaping one's life and the necessity of embracing one's truth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Shuang-Min Chang
01:28 The Journey of Self-Discovery
07:30 Overcoming Depression and Choosing Life
13:13 The Impact of Personal Development
15:49 Pursuing Dreams in a New Country
19:17 Navigating Loneliness in a Foreign Land
22:31 The Power of Decision-Making
23:38 Embracing Change and New Opportunities
25:51 The Importance of Authenticity
28:46 Understanding the Fear of the Unknown
33:18 Choosing Life and Finding Support
Subscribe to hear more and share with those who might need to hear these inspiring stories.
Follow the podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
*****
In Crisis?
Canada:
Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988
In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec
If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.
If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.
USA:
Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Call 911 in life-threatening situations.
Keywords: mental health, personal development, self-discovery, depression, life choices, community, holistic healing, fashion industry, cultural expectations, intuitive coaching, suicidal ideation
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