The Support and Kindness Podcast

By Greg Shaw

🌟 The Support & Kindness Podcast – With Greg and Rich

Life with mental health challenges, brain injury, TBI, chronic pain, or simply the weight of everyday struggles can feel overwhelming. That’... more

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FAQs about The Support and Kindness Podcast:

How many episodes does The Support and Kindness Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 56 episodes available.

The Support and Kindness Podcast episodes:

October 12, 2025Episode 6: Medical Gaslighting
The Support and Kindness Podcast with Greg and Rich
Episode 6: Medical Gaslighting
Hosts: Greg, Rich, Jay
In this episode, Greg, Rich, and guest host Jay explore medical gaslighting - when healthcare providers dismiss, minimize, or invalidate legitimate medical concerns. They discuss how time pressures, insurance constraints, and systemic biases contribute to the problem, and share practical strategies to advocate for yourself in medical settings.
Jay recounts a personal experience with cyclical vomiting syndrome and hospital care, Rich reflects on navigating traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the importance of self-advocacy, and Greg highlights his current struggle with chronic fatigue and the need for timely follow-ups.
The conversation also examines the potential role of AI in diagnostics, the emotional toll of feeling unheard, and disparities affecting minority groups - particularly Black women in maternal care.
Key Quotes and Noteworthy Observations:
Greg:
“Some of the common things that a provider might say… ‘It’s probably just stress,’ ‘You’re a bit young to have that problem,’ ‘You might just need to lose weight.’”

“I’m chronically fatigued… I can’t live like this. It’s not working for me.”

Observation: Greg underscores how dismissive language erodes trust and delays proper care, and he highlights a powerful statistic about maternal health disparities affecting Black women. He also emphasizes post-appointment actions like seeking second opinions, filing complaints when necessary, and connecting with patient advocacy groups.
Rich:
“You get so little time with the doctor… They don’t listen, they interrupt you, they diminish your symptoms before you’ve had an opportunity to really explain.”

“I had to continually advocate for myself… Bringing somebody else along helps. Bringing a journal helped.”

Observation: Rich connects medical gaslighting to insurance-driven time and testing constraints, noting providers often feel stuck between patients and insurers. He offers practical, concise communication strategies to make every minute count.
Jay:
“I have something called cyclical vomiting syndrome… It took a long time for them to diagnose it. They immediately went with assumptions because I was young.”

“One of the best things I ever did… was to ask for a pain specialist… He understood I had a high tolerance and that he would take care of it.”

Observation: Jay’s story shows how persistence and specific requests (like involving a pain specialist) can change the trajectory of care. He also points out the insurance cliff at age 26 and the value of bringing a trusted advocate—even a parent—to appointments.
Main Points:
What is medical gaslighting: A form of psychological manipulation where providers dismiss or minimize patients’ symptoms, leading to self-doubt, anxiety, and delayed care.
Systemic factors:
Insurance constraints limit visit length and tests, pressuring physicians and rushing appointments.

Profit motives can conflict with patient outcomes.

Bias disproportionately affects minority groups; Black women face significantly higher risks in maternal care.
Lived experiences:
Jay faced misdiagnoses and delayed imaging that revealed hernias; advocating for a pain specialist made a difference.

Rich navigated TBI care with initial dismissal, improving outcomes through persistence, journaling, and bringing a supporter.

Greg is dealing with chronic fatigue and administrative hurdles delaying care.
AI in medicine:
Potential benefits: faster pattern recognition, improved consistency in imaging and diagnostic support.

Risks: overreliance, possible misdiagnoses, lack of emotional context; must complement—not replace—human clinical judgment.
Emotional impact:
Being dismissed can feel like questioning your sanity; self-care and support networks matter.
Advocacy strategies:
Prepare: Write down symptoms, timelines, and questions before appointments.

Communicate clearly: Use specific, concise language; ask direct questions like “What else could be causing this?”

Bring support: A trusted person can observe, remember, and speak up.

Document: Keep a symptom journal and track tests, results, and dates.

Request appropriate specialists when needed (e.g., pain management, neurology).

Seek second opinions if you feel dismissed.

Use patient portals thoughtfully; follow up if results are delayed.

Consider patient advocacy groups; file complaints when care is inadequate.

Balance continuity and change: Stick with good providers; don’t stay too long with dismissive ones.

Top Takeaways:
You are your best advocate: Preparation, documentation, and persistence can counter rushed visits and dismissal.
Don’t go it alone: Bring someone who can observe and help communicate.
Ask for the right expertise: Request specialists when pain or complex symptoms aren’t being addressed.
Bias is real: Minority groups, women—especially Black women in maternal care—face heightened risk; be proactive and seek supportive providers.
AI is a tool, not a solution: It may improve diagnostics, but it can’t replace human listening and care.
Practical Checklist for Your Next Appointment:
Before:
Write a concise symptom timeline (onset, frequency, triggers, impact).

List top 3 questions and what outcomes you want (tests, referrals, next steps).

Gather prior records and test results.
During:
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19min
October 05, 2025Episode 5: What Do You Do When You Have Nobody to Talk To
The Support & Kindness Podcast with Greg and Rich
Episode 5: What Do You Do When You Have Nobody to Talk To
Summary: As the season shifts and people spend more time indoors, feelings of isolation can grow. Greg and Rich share practical ways to find connection when you don’t have anyone to talk to—from using AI tools and online communities, to city exploration, curated social media, gratitude practices, journaling with care, meetups, and crisis resources like 988 and warm lines. They emphasize safety, accessibility, and real-life strategies that help in the moment and build supportive routines over time.
Key Topics Covered:
Seasonal isolation and why connection gets harder in fall and winter

Using AI companions and custom chats for conversation and idea bouncing

Online communities: Discord, Reddit, GoBrunch groups, and city subreddits

Exploring your city like a tourist to rediscover local gems

Social media curation for a positive feed experience

Safety and support: 988, international help directories, and warm lines

Hobbies and meetups (virtual and in-person) to find your people

Journaling tips, gratitude jars, and “future self” emails for encouragement
Notable Quotes:
Greg: “You don’t have to be alone.”

Rich: “It took a while to get rid of the toxic things on social media… but I’ve got a pretty positive feed now.”

Greg: “If you respond to negative stuff, negative stuff will come at you.”

Rich: “View your city from the eyes of somebody who’s never been there… and make you appreciate it.”

Greg: “If you’re not suicidal and you call and say… ‘I really need to talk to somebody,’ you’ll be fine.”
Highlights from Greg:
AI companions and custom bots can remember context and be tailored for supportive conversation.

988 is available even if you’re not in crisis; clearly state you’re not at risk if that’s the case.

Warm lines and international directories can connect you to local, free resources.

Gratitude practices: build a jar of notes you can revisit on tough days.

Journaling can be helpful but use caution if you’re struggling—keep it focused on gratitude or prompts that support safety.
Highlights from Rich:
Online communities like Discord and Reddit can match specific interests.

NotebookLM helped his wife simulate a “study group” discussion around her novel—solo, but social.

City subreddits and tourist perspectives can refresh your appreciation for where you live.

Curating social media feeds reduces negativity and increases uplifting content.

Fun, niche content (e.g., music/video mashups) can offer light connection and entertainment.
Main Takeaways:
Connection can be built through tools, routines, and communities—even solo.

Be intentional with technology: AI chats, curated feeds, and structured tools can help.

Safety first: Crisis lines, warm lines, and clear communication about risk matter.

Rediscover local life: Explore your city through tourist guides and community forums.

Add supportive practices: gratitude jars, future-self emails, and meetups.
Actionable Tips:
Try an AI chat that remembers context; set boundaries and goals for conversations.

Join interest-based communities:
Reddit: hobby, city, and support subreddits

Discord: topic servers

GoBrunch: Greg and Rich’s community groups (Brain Injury Mondays, Chronic Pain Tuesdays, Mental Health Wednesdays)

Curate social media:
Unfollow or mute accounts that raise anxiety

Interact only with content that supports your mood and values

Use support lines:
988 (USA): Call or text if you need someone to talk to; state if you’re not at risk

Warm lines: non-crisis emotional support; search your state or region

International directories: find local free resources by country

Build a gratitude jar: Add small notes daily; read them on hard days.

Email your future self: Schedule encouraging messages to arrive later.

Explore locally: Use city subreddits and travel sites to plan mini-adventures.

Find meetups: Meetup.com for virtual or in-person hobby groups.
Resources Mentioned:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (USA): Call or text 988

Find a Helpline - Global Support at Your Fingertips 24/7 https://findahelpline.com/

Warm lines: Search “[your state] warm line” for non-crisis support

International help directories: Use country-based mental health resource lists

GoBrunch community groups by Greg and Rich:
Monday: Brain Injury Support

Tuesday: Chronic Pain Support

Wednesday: Mental Health Support

Meetup.com for interest groups
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18min
September 28, 2025Episode 4: Pain Flare Days - How to Cope When Nothing Helps
Episode 4: Pain Flare Days - How to Cope When Nothing Helps
September 27
In this episode, Greg and Rich tackle the difficult topic of "Pain Flare Days"—those challenging times when it feels like nothing works to alleviate chronic pain. They discuss personal strategies, the importance of mindset, and how to find relief when you feel like you're at the end of your rope.
Key Themes & Strategies Discussed:
The Power of Language: Rich points out that the episode's title, "How to cope when nothing helps," can feel defeating from the start. The hosts agree that reframing our thoughts and words can make a significant difference in how we approach a difficult pain day.

Giving Yourself Grace: A central theme is the importance of being kind and patient with yourself. Rich shares insights from a conversation with his wife, emphasizing the need to "give yourself grace to hurt" and not get angry or self-critical for canceling plans due to pain. Greg adds that it's about being non-judgmental and not viewing yourself as a failure.

Distraction Therapy: Both hosts find value in distraction to take their minds off the pain.
Hobbies: Greg mentions enjoying adult coloring books and beading. Rich has found a great distraction in playing fantasy football with friends and family, which keeps him engaged and focused on something other than his pain.

Games: The hosts discuss video games, like Grand Theft Auto, and online jigsaw puzzles as potential coping tools.

Other Distractions: They also suggest audiobooks and taking naps as helpful strategies.

The Importance of Connection & Asking for Help:
Venting and Sharing: Expressing the pain, whether through venting or sharing with a loved one, is a key coping mechanism.

Don't Suffer in Silence: Greg and Rich stress that you don't have to go through it alone. Asking for help from a spouse, friend, doctor, or support group is crucial. They highlight that it's okay to ask for help and to be specific about your needs.

Noteworthy Points & Quotes:
"When nothing seems to help, you know, what do you do? You vent." - Rich

"It's about giving yourself grace to take the time you need due to the pain that you're feeling, practicing patience with yourself." - Rich

"If you've never experienced pain, you don't get that experience of when you're not in pain... I think when we suffer from chronic pain, sometimes allowing ourselves to feel it, then when we're not in pain, we we really can appreciate the the gold in that." - Greg

"There's a lot of science [that] demonstrates that kindness and being kind to to other people helps us so much, if not more so than the other person." - Greg

"Ask for help and don't give up because it's really easy to to suffer in silence." - Rich
Resources:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: If you are struggling with emotional distress or in a crisis, you can call or text 988 anytime in the United States to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Greg notes, "Even if you're not suicidal, you can call and say, look, I'm not suicidal but I need someone to talk to, they'll have a conversation to you." https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://988lifeline.org/
U.S. Pain Foundation: A non-profit organization that provides resources, support, and advocacy for people living with chronic pain. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://uspainfoundation.org/
The Podcast Website: For more episodes and to suggest a topic for discussion, visit kindnessrx.org.
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11min
September 21, 2025Episode 3: “When you are forced to cancel plans, how do you handle any feelings of guilt that may arise?”
The Support & Kindness Podcast with Greg and Rich
Episode 3: “When you are forced to cancel plans, how do you handle any feelings of guilt that may arise?”
Recorded: Saturday, September 20th, 2025
Episode summary
Greg and Rich discuss practical and compassionate ways to manage guilt when illness, pain, anxiety, depression or other circumstances force you to cancel plans. They emphasize honest communication, realistic expectations, self-compassion, and simple strategies (templates, backup plans, shorter visits) to reduce stress for both you and the people who care about you.
The conversation centers on shifting the narrative from “I failed” to “This was necessary given my limits,” and on normalizing limits as part of being human.
Quick episode highlights (timestamps)
00:00–00:47 — Episode theme introduced: cancelling plans and managing guilt.

00:47–02:04 — Greg: why self-blame happens and why you shouldn’t treat a cancel as personal failure.

02:05–03:22 — Rich: the importance of open communication and setting expectations.

03:22–04:11 — Reframing guilt: from “I failed” to “I needed care.”

04:12–05:25 — Practical suggestions: templates, backup plans, shorter visits, and self-compassion exercises.

05:25–06:24 — How to invite alternatives and support from loved ones.

06:24–07:45 — On compounded guilt vs. one-off events: internal experience vs. others’ perspective.

07:46–09:08 — Resources and closing: support groups, 988 Lifeline, NIMH; call to share listeners’ experiences.
Direct quotes and notable lines
Greg: “The most important thing is not to feel like a failure… we shouldn't blame ourselves as if we've got control over a pain flare up or a depressive episode.”

Rich: “Communication is absolutely vital… guilt is one of the most common feelings because there's internal pressure to push through and meet expectations.”

Greg: “Instead of ‘I failed them,’ we could replace that with, ‘I couldn't be there this time because my body or my mind needed some help.’”

Rich: “Those are one-off events for the people that you have plans with… your only missing one event one time based on your health.”

Greg (light sign-off): “You've wasted some perfectly good time listening to the Support and Kindness podcast with Greg and Rich — but no, you chose to listen anyway.”
Key takeaways (actionable)
Reframe the story: replace “I failed” with factual language: “I couldn’t be there because my health needed attention.”

Communicate early and briefly: a short honest message is better than silence; keep a cancellation template ready.

Set realistic expectations in advance: let regular contacts know you may need shorter visits or last-minute changes.

Offer alternatives: propose a shorter visit, phone call, or reschedule to show you care while honoring limits.

Build simple backup plans: childcare, caregiving, or a “plan B” for events can reduce last-minute stress.

Practice self-compassion: treat yourself as you would a friend; if guilt is frequent or severe, consider therapy or peer support.

Remember perspective: others usually view the missed event as one occurrence; the compounded guilt you feel is often internal.
What each host contributed (noteworthy observation / quote)
Greg
Observation: People often self-blame after cancelling because society prizes productivity and reliability.

Quote: “Limits are part of being human, and one cancelled event rarely defines a whole relationship.”

Practical tip: Keep a brief message template and suggest concrete alternatives (call, reschedule, shorter visit).
Rich
Observation: Silence or assuming others “get it” leads to misunderstanding and resentment.

Quote: “Communication is absolutely vital… we have to acknowledge our limits.”

Practical tip: Set expectations ahead of time and use backup plans — communication prevents hurt feelings.

Resources mentioned
Support and Kindness peer support groups (visit kindnessrx.org)

988 — National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) — resources and links for mental health information
Suggested short message templates to keep on hand (examples from the episode’s guidance)
“I’m really sorry — my health is acting up and I can’t make it today. I hate to miss it. Can we reschedule for next week or do a quick call this evening?”

“I need to rest today and can’t attend. I’m sorry to let you down — could we do a shorter visit another day or talk on the phone tonight?”
Call to action
Share how you handle cancelling plans: visit kindnessrx.org and let Greg and Rich know what has helped you — templates, scripts, or ways families and friends can support you better.
Closing line
This episode reminds us that honoring limits is responsible and kind — to ourselves and to others. If guilt shows up, a short honest message, a proposed alternative, and a little self-compassion go a long way.
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11min
September 14, 2025Episode 2: What Do You Do When You Feel Overwhelmed?
The Support & Kindness Podcast - With Greg and Rich
Episode 2: What Do You Do When You Feel Overwhelmed?
Recorded: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Today Greg and Rich discussed “What Do You Do When You Feel Overwhelmed?”
Episode summary Greg and Rich unpack what it feels like to be overwhelmed and share practical, compassionate strategies that work in real life - especially when you’re juggling brain injury, ADHD, family, and daily noise. They cover slowing down, prioritizing, grounding the nervous system, writing lists that actually help, shrinking big tasks, setting boundaries, delegating, and caring for the basics (food, water, sleep, movement).
Greg also reads a thoughtful list of tips he received from GPT-5, which both hosts reflect on and endorse. They close with an open invitation to their free, confidential peer-led support groups held weekly.
Highlights and key takeaways
Slow down and prioritize:
Pause, breathe, and pick the next single step.

Make a simple list and sort by “must do today,” “could do this week,” and “parking lot.”
Ground your nervous system:
Try box breathing: inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4 (repeat 4–6 times).

Use a cold-water reset: rinse hands/face or hold an ice cube for 30–60 seconds.

5-4-3-2-1 grounding: name 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste.
Shrink the task:
Cut big tasks in half, then in half again. Examples:
“Write a report” → open a doc and write one sentence.

“Clean the kitchen” → clear the sink and run the dishwasher.

“Work out” → put on shoes, take a 5-minute walk.
Use a 10-3-10 reset:
10 minutes: tidy one visible area or answer one small email.

3 minutes: stretch, breathe, hydrate.

10 minutes: focus on the single most important next step—no multitasking.
Protect your inputs:
Silence non-urgent notifications, close extra tabs, place your phone in another room.

Use a calming playlist or white noise.
Ask for help and delegate:
Share bandwidth: “Could you summarize 5–10 pages?” “Can you handle dinner tonight?”

It’s okay to ask early and delegate a piece, not the whole project.
Set compassionate boundaries:
“I don’t have capacity right now.”

“I need to finish X before I commit.”
Care for the basics:
Eat protein + fiber, drink a full glass of water, move for 5 minutes, aim for consistent sleep.
Reframe the story:
“I can do this in small steps.”

“Not everything is urgent. I will choose one.”

Progress > perfection.
End your day with a soft landing:
Note 3 small wins, set tomorrow’s top 1–2 tasks, and do one soothing ritual (warm shower, tea, light reading, brief guided breathing).

Noteworthy observations
Overstimulation can escalate to panic or even seizures for some—slowing down isn’t optional; it’s protective.

Families and teams can learn to spot early signs of overwhelm and support with simple cues like “slow down.”

Delegation can be growth-building, especially for kids or teammates—assigning roles helps them step up.
Greg — quotes and points
Quotes:
“Just the act of slowing down can make all the difference.”

“Feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean that you’re failing—it means that you’re human.” (reflecting on the AI advice)

“I feel lost and afraid and scared… my breathing labors. It’s just like I need some help.”
Key points:
Emphasizes the physical side of anxiety—tension and constriction—and how slowing down helps.

Believes in writing things down as both a practical and calming step, even if the notebooks pile up.

Endorses breathing as a reliable first-line tool when you’re on your own.

Highlights the HALT guideline: don’t get too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired.

Reads and validates a comprehensive list of practical tips (breathing, cold water, 5-4-3-2-1, brain dump, shrinking tasks, 10-3-10 reset, protecting inputs, delegating, boundaries, basics, reframing, soft landing).

Rich — quotes and points
Quotes:
“When I feel pressured, I freeze up… I can work myself into panic attacks or even seizures with overstimulation.”

“I try and slow down and figure out what order I need to prioritize them in… take the food out so it doesn’t burn, then talk to my family member.”
Key points:
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16min
September 06, 2025Episode 1: What Do You Do When Your Mind Goes Blank?
Title: When Your Mind Goes Blank (Episode 1)
Podcast: The Support and Kindness Podcast with Greg and Rich
Episode Summary In our very first episode, Greg and Rich introduce The Support and Kindness Podcast and dive into a common, often scary experience: when your mind goes blank. Drawing from their lived experience with brain injury, anxiety, seizures, and depression, they share practical ways to reorient, reduce anxiety, and move forward with compassion. This short, real-talk episode is meant to remind you you’re not alone—and that this happens to everyone.
Key Topics
Why minds go blank: It’s normal and human, not a personal failure

Quick ways to reorient when you freeze

Using context clues to regain the thread

Simple grounding and breath practices to calm the nervous system

Being gentle with yourself: no harsh self-judgment

Giving yourself permission to pause or step away
Practical Tips Mentioned
Ask orienting questions:
What’s going on?

Where am I?

What was I doing?

Use context clues:
Check the screen, the program, the paper in front of you

Review browsing history or hit the “back” button to retrace steps

Pick up on the subject matter of the conversation to rejoin

Quick “refresh” moves:
Tap back 15 seconds on a video or audio

Skim recent tabs or notes

Grounding breath:
Inhale through the nose, hold briefly, slow exhale

Visualize a place that’s safe and calm (real or imagined)

Engage all senses: What can you see, hear, feel (breeze/sun), smell (ocean/pine), taste (salt air)?

Release tension:
Notice clenched muscles and soften them

Let go of “gripping” harder when anxious—it often backfires

Social permission:
It’s okay to say, “My mind went blank—can you catch me up?”

It’s okay to take a brief break if you need to reset

Memorable Quotes
“It happens to us. It’s the human condition. Minds go blank.” —Rich

“Don’t judge yourself harshly for a momentary slip.” —Rich

“Go back and get the context—what was I doing, and where was I?” —Greg

“Sometimes anxiety makes us clamp down. Softening and breathing helps more than gripping tighter.” —Greg

“It’s okay to use, ‘My mind went blank,’ as a simple, honest way to reduce the awkwardness.” —Rich
Reassurance and Perspective
This isn’t just a brain injury thing—everyone experiences blank moments: teens, parents, older adults, people with and without medical histories.

A blank moment does not mean your condition is getting worse. Most often, it’s stress, overload, or just being human.

Compassion beats self-criticism. Be kind to yourself.
Resources
Show notes, resources, and updates: https://kindnessRX.org

We’ll add a dedicated episode page and links mentioned here to the site.
Call to Action
If this episode resonated, share it with someone who might need it.

Send us feedback and ideas for future short episodes via the website: https://kindnessRX.org
Credits Hosts: Greg and Rich Podcast: The Support and Kindness Podcast with Greg and Rich
Closing Thought You’re not alone. Take a breath, find your context, and treat yourself with kindness.
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10min

FAQs about The Support and Kindness Podcast:

How many episodes does The Support and Kindness Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 56 episodes available.