The Process of Healing

Can your thoughts really shape your reality? Imagine your mind as an old house in need of renovation – that's what we'll explore today with cognitive restructuring. David shares his personal "My Brain's Renovation" story, revealing how transforming negative thought patterns into empowering beliefs can be life-changing. We'll discuss the importance of distinguishing between a negative mindset and unhealthy thoughts, and why realistic perspectives matter more than forced positivity. Join us as we uncover common cognitive distortions like catastrophizing and all-or-none thinking, and learn how to cultivate a healthier and balanced outlook on life.

Motherhood isn't easy, especially when juggling work and single parenting, but Susie has some practical advice to share. Drawing from her own experiences, she offers tips on managing worries by gathering evidence, leaning on a supportive network, and even imagining advice to superheroes like Superman and Batman. We delve into how imparting wisdom to children can be reflected back to oneself, and the crucial role of breaking emotional cycles to create a safer environment for kids. Hear about the value of diverse community voices and how they contribute to effective parenting.

Special guest Jason joins us to answer Mandy's question about dealing with negative thoughts as a working mom. We'll dive into awareness and cognitive restructuring, with practical strategies for fact-checking and challenging the validity of negative thoughts. Jason shares powerful analogies, like car maintenance for mental alignment, to help maintain mental health balance. We also celebrate the inspiring journey of a 32-year-old FTM striving for authenticity, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, supportive communities, and positive self-talk. Tune in for an episode filled with actionable insights, personal stories, and the strength found in community support.

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Can healing from trauma truly be a shared journey? Join us as we explore the profound inspirations behind our life coaching and video series aimed at helping individuals navigate their trauma recovery journeys. In this episode, we dive into the impact of social media algorithms on mental health and the importance of a well-rounded toolkit of resources, including videos, reading materials, and journaling techniques. We highlight the non-linear nature of healing and emphasize the necessity of creating a safe space for people to process their trauma, no matter how recent or deeply buried it may be. 

Together with experts like Susie, Becky, and Jason, we unveil our comprehensive 16-module program designed to build resilience and practical coping skills. Each thoughtfully crafted module aims to support a wide audience, no matter the specific trauma experienced. The program, which includes innovative "take five" practical applications such as transformative breathing techniques, is also a valuable resource for family members who wish to foster understanding and support. We delve into how this inclusive initiative strives to normalize trauma discussions and cultivate a shared language of recovery within households.

Expansion is on the horizon with different tiers like the Growth Tier and Mastery Tier, offering personalized guidance and support. We're excited to announce future plans for specialized trauma resources, retreats, and even survivor cruises. Community support is vital, and we encourage engagement through platforms like Patreon and TikTok. With heartfelt gratitude, we share touching feedback from our listeners, underscoring the impact of our work in fostering resilience and boundaries. Join us on this courageous path of healing and personal development, buoyed by mutual support and a thriving community.

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What would your life look like if you could transition from merely surviving to truly thriving? Join us for a special bonus episode where we trace the heartwarming journey of our podcast's inception, driven by the unwavering support of Susie, Becky, and Jason. Susie shares her emotional bond with Becky, forged during a support group retreat for sexual assault survivors, which ignited a shared dream of tailored healing. Becky, with her 16-year dedication to addiction recovery, discusses her zeal for helping others through compassion, while we reflect on the transformative power of our healing modules.

Imagine a world where vulnerability is celebrated and emotional expression is encouraged. In this episode, we uncover the profound moments of human connection and the strength that lies within each of us. By sharing personal stories about teaching children and embracing diverse learning methods, we highlight the importance of nurturing compassion and understanding. Our conversation also takes a hard look at societal norms that stifle men's emotional expression, advocating for a new narrative where vulnerability is not only accepted but seen as a path to a healthier, more authentic life.

What does self-love truly mean to you? We dive deep into the journey of self-acceptance, inspired by scenes from "Runaway Bride," exploring how understanding your own preferences can foster genuine self-appreciation. We discuss the challenges of overcoming negative influences from high-demand religions and toxic family dynamics, emphasizing the importance of caring for one's inner child. As we celebrate the exciting road ahead for our podcast team and listeners, we introduce our unique validation journals and invite you to join us in this shared experience of growth and empowerment. Connect with us through emails, likes, and shares—let’s support each other in this enriching journey. #podcast #healing #trauma

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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.

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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.

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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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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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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.

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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.

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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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