Who this episode is for:
Those navigating trauma like a damn obstacle course.
Anyone who’s ever been raised by chaos and still learned how to laugh.
People who’ve walked out of therapy like it was a bad Tinder date.
Survivors of fucked-up families who still believe in healing.
Anyone tired of tiptoeing around their own pain.
Those who love a little irreverence with their recovery.
And yes—even people who aren’t in recovery but have ever felt like a complete mess trying to hold their shit together.

S2 E38 – Introducing Zoë Mendenall

This episode is the official introduction to our new co-host—and certified chaos enthusiast—Zoë Mendenall, MSW, trauma warrior, and walking tornado of wit, wounds, and wisdom.

Chris and Jeff crack the mic with Zoë, who used to intern for Chris’ wife Ashley, and somehow found her way from clinical work to co-hosting this circus. She’s no stranger to the team—but now she’s on the mic, and she’s unfiltered.

Zoë’s story? It’s brutal, beautiful, and deeply human. From growing up in a cyclone of addiction, loss, mental illness, and family trauma—to healing her throat chakra and ditching the vape—Zoë holds nothing back. She’s a proud “Jesus freak,” a therapy regular, a former Twitter menace (“If you’re not trying to mate like an anglerfish, I’m not interested”), and a woman who’s seen the inside of hell and still sings in church. For real.

You’ll laugh. You’ll wince. You might cry. But mostly, you’ll feel like you just sat down with a friend who finally said all the shit you’ve been thinking. This is why Zoë belongs here—with us. With you. With this whole messed-up, miraculous community.

Oh, and she ghosted Jeff’s Facebook request. So there’s that.

CHAPTERS:

• 00:00 Introduction to Pondoff's Anonymous and Sponsors
• 02:57 The Impact of Chewing Sounds and Misophonia
• 06:00 Zoe's Introduction and Her Unique Perspective
• 08:58 Zoe's Life Experiences and Challenges
• 12:07 Healing and Recovery: The Role of Vaping and Chakras
• 14:59 Zoe's Tour of Illinois Recovery Center
• 18:02 Transformational Journeys in Recovery
• 20:59 Navigating Online Interactions and Safety Concerns
• 21:43 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• 24:41 Navigating Personal Relationships and Boundaries
• 27:11 Childhood Experiences and Family Dynamics
• 35:15 Understanding Trauma and Its Long-Term Effects
• 43:28 Friendship and Community Support
• 44:53 Launching a New Church Initiative
• 46:59 Mental Health Conversations
• 49:41 Navigating Family Dynamics
• 51:58 Loss and Grief
• 58:50 Life Changes and Adaptation
• 01:05:44 Navigating Digital Privacy and Parenting Challenges
• 01:08:13 The Impact of Show Choir on Personal Growth
• 01:09:52 Family Dynamics and Emotional Turmoil
• 01:12:37 The Journey to Adoption and Finding a New Family
• 01:15:30 Pursuing Education and Career Aspirations
• 01:18:00 The Role of Community in Healing and Support
• 01:20:38 The Importance of Empathy and Connection in Recovery

Sponsored by:
🛡️ McKelvey Insurance
🧠 LightSource Psychotherapy