Surviving-ISH Podcast

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Join Susie and David as they explore #emotional regulation and healing with special guest Shana Forrestall, a multi-talented actress and producer. Shana shares her personal #journey  of #grief, resilience, and tips for managing anxiety. The discussion also includes the transformative power of music and art therapy, especially featuring creative projects by young individuals on the autism spectrum. Dive into various healing modalities, including plant medicine, and learn the importance of self-love and setting boundaries. Don't miss the inspiring 'Survivor's Slay' segment with Alex, a nurse from Chicago, who shares their coping mechanisms. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and heartfelt stories to empower your emotional well-being.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTleSXgHQMRomElXobcPaaA

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1801113/13435380

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Can laughter be a lifeline after enduring trauma? Join us as we sit down with Ashley Easter to uncover the power of humor in reclaiming joy and control. Ashley's story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, as she navigates the absurdity of her past life in a fundamentalist religious cult. Her small acts of rebellion and the discovery of humor as a coping mechanism provide a fresh perspective on finding light amid darkness. This conversation is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and how humor can build bridges, break down barriers, and foster deep connections.

We also explore the rigid world of the independent fundamentalist Baptist (IFB) church and the homeschooling movement within these communities. Ashley's personal anecdotes shed light on the stringent rules and gender dynamics, the emotional and spiritual abuse, and the oppressive structures of the patriarchal and quiverful movements. Her journey from a staunch defender of traditional gender roles to an advocate for egalitarian theology and feminism is both inspiring and thought-provoking. The transformation she has undergone highlights the strength and determination it takes to break free from such restrictive beliefs.

Finally, we delve into Ashley's path to self-discovery and independence, her experiences of overcoming trauma, and finding true love. We discuss the creation of her blog and the Courage Conference, which evolved into Courage 365, an online nonprofit supporting abuse survivors. Learn about the upcoming "30 Days of Courage" event and the importance of community, accessibility, and ongoing support for survivors. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact of connection and support in the healing journey, and how resilience and humor can lead to profound transformation.

https://www.courage365.org/about

https://www.ashleyeaster.com/story

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Curious about how mindfulness can transform your life? Discover the profound impact of self-awareness as we share personal stories and insightful analogies, including Susie's memorable takeaway from "The Golden Girls." We'll explore how understanding our thoughts, feelings, and emotional triggers is like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone, unlocking new dimensions of personal growth and clarity. This episode promises to equip you with the tools to manage your emotions and navigate life's complexities with greater ease.

Throughout our discussion, we delve into various mindfulness practices that are powerful antidotes to burnout and stress. Our friend Jason, a mindfulness expert, joins us to address a listener's question about feeling lost and unfulfilled. We emphasize the importance of recognizing and acknowledging your feelings without judgment and demonstrate how mindful breathing, body scans, and mindful walking can ground you in the present moment. These techniques are key to managing reactions, preventing mental exhaustion, and maintaining a professional demeanor in challenging situations.

By observing ourselves with a non-judgmental perspective, we uncover the path to self-discovery and resilience. Shift your focus from monitoring others' emotions to understanding your own thoughts and reactions. We'll highlight the transformative power of breathwork and self-love in breaking free from old patterns and triggers. Embrace the journey of healing and mindfulness, and allow these practices to help you build confidence, overcome public speaking anxieties, and embark on a courageous journey toward self-awareness.

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What if the mind under chronic stress is like a city struck by recurring meteors? Join us as we explore this compelling metaphor on this episode of "The Process." We share personal stories and insights to highlight the profound impact of trauma on our brain and body. Susie dives into the essential concepts of big T and little T trauma, explaining how these events affect our amygdala and hippocampus, and why taking breaks and seeking support is crucial for healing.

We challenge the stigma surrounding mental health by emphasizing its critical importance. Mental health issues often go overlooked, unlike physical ailments. Through vivid analogies and personal reflections, we underscore the urgent need to address trauma with the same urgency as physical injuries. We discuss the journey of healing, contemplating whether significant traumas can diminish over time and how support and self-care play vital roles in this process.

Throughout the episode, we delve into various facets of trauma, offering practical tips and affirmations for daily motivation. From identifying trauma signs and indicators to exploring therapeutic techniques like EMDR therapy, we provide valuable insights into managing and processing trauma. Our discussion highlights the subjective nature of trauma, reminding listeners that everyone's healing journey is unique. Tune in as we share a listener's heartfelt email and reflect on the shared human experience, emphasizing the importance of empathy, support, and understanding in the path to healing.

#understanding #trauma #healing #podcast #lifecoaching

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Can you imagine rebuilding a sense of safety and stability after trauma through simple practices? Discover the transformative power of grounding and relaxation techniques as we explore their critical role in building resilience. This episode is packed with practical strategies to help you manage overwhelming emotions and reconnect with the present moment. Personal stories and expert insights illustrate how consistent practice can help you regain a sense of security and balance, likening the healing journey to constructing a resilient house capable of weathering life's storms.

We also tackle the complex issue of rebuilding trust and self-compassion after abusive relationships. By addressing listeners' poignant questions, we emphasize the importance of recognizing one's inner strength and practicing self-compassion. Learn how to visualize a better future and reestablish your personal identity, all while maintaining the ability to connect with others despite past hurts. This episode provides actionable advice on using mental safe spaces and grounding techniques to overcome past traumas and navigate stressful situations with grace and resilience.

Finally, explore the benefits of practicing coping skills in safe environments to make them automatic responses during crises. We delve into managing perceived threats, especially for those who have experienced sexual trauma, through relaxation techniques such as body scans and muscle relaxation. Plus, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new self-reflection journal on Amazon, designed to support your healing journey. Celebrate with us and stay tuned for exciting giveaways, reinforcing that healing is a journey we embark on together.

#podcast #duet #safety #stabilization #mentalhealthmatters 

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Ever felt swamped by a flood of new ideas and hobbies, only to find yourself too overwhelmed to take action? We get it. David recounts a day filled with ambitious plans for spirituality and health, which turned into a cluttered mess of unfulfilled aspirations. Suzy and David navigate the intricate concept of preloading—how it can be a double-edged sword that leaves you paralyzed by possibilities. Learn practical tips to balance inspiration with action and prevent that dreaded burnout, making sure your journey toward self-improvement remains productive and enjoyable.

Our conversation then shifts to overcoming trauma and building resilience. Hear powerful survivor stories, including one listener’s courageous shift from living in fear to embracing life's uncertainties with open arms. Discover how trauma-induced coping mechanisms can lead to exhaustion and the vital role of mindfulness and community support in healing. Finally, we rally our community—yes, that's you!—to engage, share, and leave your mark on our growing platform. All this, plus a fun debate about kale, awaits you in this enriching episode.

#podcast #mentalhealth

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What if healing from trauma wasn't just about surviving, but thriving and growing together as a community? Meet our new co-host, Susie Spencer, who brings her powerful story of overcoming childhood trauma and finding strength through community support. In this transformative episode, we unveil the exciting shift from "Surviving Podcast" to "The Process." Our conversation is filled with honest reflections on why we needed to rebrand and how listener feedback has helped shape our new direction. Susie and I share our personal journeys and highlight the importance of healing, growth, and change in our lives and in the podcast.

This episode is your gateway to a structured and supportive path to healing, complete with previews of upcoming retreats, cruises, and so much more. We dive into the joy of being recognized by our listeners and emphasize the power of building a supportive village. Susie opens up about transitioning from merely acknowledging trauma to actively engaging in the healing process. We introduce "The Process of Healing" through specially designed modules to help you kickstart your journey. Plus, we discuss the thrill of upcoming live events and potential merchandise giveaways. Join us, get involved, and remember—you’re not alone in this journey.

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Imagine navigating life with a profound sense of gratitude despite facing intense trials. Audrey Nicole, our remarkable guest from Charlotte, North Carolina, shares her courageous journey towards authenticity and self-acceptance. She opens up about her upcoming book, "Transition," and reflects on the impact of her first book, "Broken Through a Shattered Glass." Audrey's story is filled with early struggles, severe bullying, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path towards living her truth. Her experiences underscore the importance of visibility and the transformative power of sharing one's story.

We also venture into the emotional landscape of grieving a loved one who has transitioned, a topic often shrouded in misunderstanding. Audrey offers us a window into the unique grief experienced by families, akin to losing one person and gaining another without death. By emphasizing patience and understanding, she guides us through the nuanced process of accepting and loving the present identity of a transitioning family member. This segment touches on the significance of names and the evolving relationship with past identities, providing listeners with a compassionate framework for navigating these complex emotions.

Audrey's reflections on identity, pronouns, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are both insightful and inspiring. She shares how the lockdown period became a turning point for her transition, allowing her to complete therapy and begin hormone replacement therapy. Audrey's insights extend to the workplace, where she advocates for kindness and inclusion, drawing from her certification in diversity and inclusion. Her passion for artistry, modeling, and acting not only fuels her self-care but also drives her mission to leave a lasting legacy of authenticity and acceptance. Join us for a heartfelt episode that promises to inspire and enlighten.

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Imagine being placed in the back of a squad car with the very person who took your mother’s life. This unfathomable nightmare was Nikki Wasilishin's reality. Join us as Nikki recounts the tragic night her mother, Stacey Marie Wasilishin, was murdered and the years-long journey she embarked upon to seek justice. With raw honesty, Nikki reveals how repressed memories and a mishandled investigation have fueled her relentless pursuit of the truth, using her own TikTok channel to create a community of support.

We'll navigate the complex emotions tied to police misconduct in unsolved homicide cases. Nikki opens up about the painful memories of her younger sister repeatedly saying, "Poppy killed mommy," and the baffling experience of being placed with the primary suspect. Despite acquiring a 400-page case file, crucial parts remain missing, raising questions about police negligence and inexperience during the 1993 investigation. This episode underscores the importance of persistence and the emotional toll exacted on those seeking justice for their loved ones.

From the distress of public scrutiny to the triumph of resilience, we explore how going viral can distort personal narratives and invite unwanted cyberbullying. David shares his roller coaster experience of fame, adding depth to our understanding of public misrepresentation. We then celebrate the enduring spirit of resilience, drawing parallels to Nikki’s unwavering advocacy and her mother Stacey’s lasting legacy. Concluding on a lighter note, we entertain the whimsical idea of Melissa McCarthy playing Nikki in a movie, reminding us all to find joy amidst the pain. Tune in for a deeply moving and empowering conversation about justice, representation, and the power of community.

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What happens when you combine the ancient wisdom of psilocybin with the expertise of a trauma coach? Join us in a transformative conversation with Phoenix Gould, as we uncover the profound healing impacts of her recent psilocybin therapy session. Phoenix, a dedicated trauma coach, shares the raw and powerful journey of confronting long-held fears and trauma. Discover the life-changing insights she gained and how these sessions are reshaping her path to reclaiming joy and personal power.

In a compelling discussion, we explore the shift from being a fierce warrior to embracing vulnerability and self-acceptance. Phoenix shares intimate reflections on how growing up with a narcissistic parent has shaped survival mechanisms and self-perception. We dive into the heart of the struggle, examining the complexities of letting go of familiar strength and independence to trust and accept love and support from others. This conversation sheds light on why choosing a nurturing life can be so challenging for trauma survivors and how to begin this daunting transformation.

Our episode concludes with a deep dive into understanding and forgiving narcissistic behavior within the context of family relationships. Phoenix opens up about the painful yet necessary journey of empathy and self-care when dealing with a narcissistic parent. We discuss the importance of setting boundaries to protect oneself from ongoing abuse while exploring the potential for healing and forgiveness. Through Phoenix's insights and personal revelations, listeners will gain a profound understanding of resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of shared journeys.

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