In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco talks with comedian April Richardson about her journey from MTV News to becoming a regular on ‘Chelsea Lately’. April shares how Bob Odenkirk inspired her to start doing stand-up comedy, and how her love of music and pop culture has shaped her creative path. They discuss the cultural influence of Saved by the Bell, the role of music in forming identity—especially for women in male-dominated scenes—and what it means to stay connected to your passions in adulthood.

• Follow⁠ April on Instagram ⁠
• Want more “soft parts” musings? Follow me on Instagram: ⁠@deanthinkstoomuch⁠

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco shares Halloween stories—from attending The Rocky Horror Picture Show to run-ins with Insane Clown Posse fans. She talks about sensory overload, finding calm through running, and spotting unforgettable costumes. Plus, Deana previews her upcoming collaboration with Chuk Davis from the Don’t Die podcast to discuss Mark Lanegan’s memoir, Sing Backwards and Weep—and teases next week’s guest, April Richardson.

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco sits down with anxiety specialist Jennie Ketchum Crooks to explore how anxiety shows up in everyday life—and what we can actually do about it. They discuss the impact of political and social news on mental health, how to build distress tolerance, and realistic ways to reduce anxiety, from setting news boundaries to engaging in meaningful activities.

Deana also discusses a recent trip to Casa Bonita and teases an upcoming collaboration with Chuk Davis of the Don’t Die Podcast to discuss Mark Lanegan’s memoir Sing Backwards and Weep—a raw, unflinching look at addiction, recovery, and the grunge era through the eyes of the Screaming Trees frontman.

• Follow Jennie on Instagram @becomingjennie
  Grab a copy of Mark Lanegan’s memoir, Sing Backwards and Weep, here.⁠

• Want more “soft parts” musings? Follow me on Instagram: ⁠@deanthinkstoomuch⁠

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco opens up about navigating seasonal changes, self-care, and the role community plays in mental health. Deana also shares her experience as a DJ at KGNU community radio, highlighting the importance of supporting local radio during times of funding cuts.

The episode features a powerful conversation with Amanda and Brandon from Punk Rock Recovery, exploring the connections between addiction recovery, music, and community support. They share inspiring personal stories about overcoming addiction, finding purpose in sobriety, and building a supportive recovery community through creativity and connection.

Also joining the conversation is Chuck Davis, who reflects on his journey of long-term sobriety and the importance of staying active, engaged, and connected to others. Together, they discuss how music, positive reinforcement, and meaningful community involvement can help sustain recovery and joy beyond addiction.

• Follow⁠ Punk Rock Recovery
• Want more “soft parts” musings? Follow me on Instagram: ⁠@deanthinkstoomuch⁠

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, Deana kicks things off with a fall update from Boulder — from October trail runs and bear scares to a hilariously stressful movie outing — before diving into Part 2 of her conversation with Christian counselor Jeremy Schumacher.

In this continuation, Jeremy explores his evolving relationship with faith, therapy, and identity after growing up in evangelical Christianity. He discusses his experiences counseling men around pornography, shame, and relationships, and reflects on the intersection of religious trauma, deconstruction, and mental health.

If you’ve ever questioned your faith or struggled to heal from evangelical religious trauma, this episode offers thoughtful insight and validation.

• Listen to Jeremy's podcast Your Therapist Needs a Therapy. ⁠https://www.buzzsprout.com/2178713⁠
• Follow Jeremy on Instagram. ⁠https://www.instagram.com/wellnesswithjer/
• Follow Deana on Instagram

In this episode So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco speaks with Wisconsin-based therapist and podcast host Jeremy Schumacher, who specializes in religious trauma therapy. Jeremy shares his personal story of growing up in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), navigating the challenges of fundamentalist evangelical culture, and how his neurodivergence and queer identity shaped his path. He discusses the role of music, literature, and creativity in questioning rigid beliefs and beginning to break free from harmful religious systems. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in healing from spiritual abuse, recovering from religious trauma, and exploring identity beyond religion.

• Listen to Jeremy's podcast Your Therapist Needs a Therapy. ⁠⁠https://www.buzzsprout.com/2178713⁠⁠
• Follow Jeremy on Instagram. ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wellnesswithjer/⁠
• Follow ⁠Deana on Instagram⁠

In this episode of So What Brings You To Therapy?, host Deana explores how constant information consumption affects mental health and why it’s essential to stay connected to the real world. Reflecting on the cultural impact of Kurt Cobain’s death, Deana shares how media shaped her early experiences and why she later chose to stop following the news after the last election to protect her nervous system and well-being.

Returning guest and sex therapist Jolene Harrelson joins the conversation to discuss common issues couples face in sex therapy, including mismatched sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, and the importance of open communication. She highlights how creating a safe, judgment-free space can help partners talk about sexual preferences, fantasies, and needs while fostering deeper intimacy and relational health.

This episode blends personal reflection with expert insights on managing media overload, nurturing mental health, and building stronger relationships.

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco reflects on her decade-long journey as a community radio DJ and how music has been a grounding force in her life. From providing joy and connection to offering solace during chaotic times, Deana explores the healing power of music and its role in mental health.

The episode also features part two of an interview with Chuk Davis, co-host of The Don’t Die Podcast. Chuk shares his powerful story of addiction and recovery, offering insights into the evolution of substance abuse treatment, the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis, and the urgent need for supportive recovery communities. He also discusses the role of younger generations in shaping the future of addiction treatment and recovery.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the intersection of music, mental health, and recovery.

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana shares her experience introducing her kids to horror movies —starting with Ma starring Octavia Spencer. She then welcomes Chuk Davis, co-host of The Don’t Die Podcast, for an honest conversation about addiction, sobriety, and recovery.

Chuk opens up about his journey from battling addiction to finding healing in the rehab and recovery community. He shares insights on how substance abuse treatment has changed over the years, the challenges of working within insurance-driven rehab systems, and why creating consistent, supportive environments is essential for recovery.

👉 If you enjoy the episode, please rate and review the podcast—it helps others discover these important conversations.

In this episode of So, What Brings You to Therapy?, host Deana Bianco shares personal reflections on parenting stress, mental health burnout, and finding joy in everyday life. She also opens up about her interest in starting a new podcast about tattoos before returning to the heart of this show: honest conversations about mental health.

Deana is joined by Jennie Ketcham Crooks of The West Coast Anxiety Clinic. Together, they explore:

• The stigma and realities of the adult film industry

• How trauma impacts mental health and relationships

• The illusion of control and the search for identity

• Tattoos as storytelling and healing

• Their personal journeys with sobriety, recovery, and therapy

This powerful conversation blends raw honesty with humor, offering insights into resilience, self-expression, and the path toward emotional well-being.

🎧 Listen now for real talk about mental health, trauma recovery, tattoos, and life after the adult industry