Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

Season 17 Recap: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles Talk Toxic Relationships, Joy, and Mental Health Recovery

Season 17 went out the way this show does best: honest, messy, funny, and full of heart. In this recap episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles look back at a powerful season of conversations about toxic relationships, shame, burnout, suicide prevention, chronic pain, grief, parenting, joy, and the wild little thing we call healing. AWARDS & DOWNLOADS LINE Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. FEEDBACK LINK LINE We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a [https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a] TRIGGER NOTICE + 988 CRISIS REMINDER This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts, suicide prevention, emotional pain, trauma, and mental health struggles. If you or someone you love is in crisis, please call or text 988 in the United States or visit https://988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org] for immediate support. You are not alone, and your story is not over. MENTAL HEALTH QUOTE “Every time we share our story, we unlock somebody else’s prison so they don’t feel so alone.” — Inspired by G-Rex EPISODE DESCRIPTION Season 17 was one hell of a ride, and G-Rex and Dirty Skittles are closing it out with the kind of conversation that feels like sitting with your favorite people after a long, emotional day. In this Season 17 recap, they revisit the guests who brought wisdom, vulnerability, humor, and real-life tools to the mic: Kate King, Nicole Penrod, Justin Goodman, Shannon Salge, Louis Kim, Shari B Kaplan, Deane Benninghoven, Joe Smarro, Kathryn M Henry, and Jacintha Field. This episode pulls together the big emotional thread running through the season: learning how to stop abandoning yourself. From toxic relationships and workplace burnout to shame spirals, chronic pain, grief, parenting, suicide prevention, and finding joy again, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles remind us that healing does not always look polished. Sometimes it looks like laughing through the hard stuff, crying when the dime moments hit, saying “another fucking growth opportunity,” or finally admitting that you need help. They also reflect on how each guest brought something practical and deeply human to the table: self-compassion, advocacy, emotional safety, suicide-prevention resources, joy, plant-based healing, hypnosis, first-responder mental health, grief rituals, and helping kids feel their feelings. At its core, this episode is a love letter to Season 17 and to every listener still doing the hard work. Healing is not linear, but damn, it is possible. Keywords: Mental health podcast, emotional wellness, toxic relationships, suicide prevention, burnout recovery, self-worth, shame healing, grief support, chronic pain, parenting emotions, first responder mental health, trauma recovery, joy, self-compassion, mental health recovery. MEET OUR GUESTS — SEASON 17 RECAP This Season 17 ender celebrates the powerful guests who helped shape the season’s conversations around healing, hope, and mental health recovery. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles reflected on each guest in order, pulling out the moments that stuck with them most. * Kate King — Kate’s third visit brought a much-needed conversation about toxic relationships, toxic workplaces, and knowing when it is time to mend or move on. Her reminder that you do not have to abandon yourself to keep a relationship alive hit hard in the best way. * Nicole Penrod — Nicole’s episode opened up a real conversation about toxic shame, perfectionism, negative self-talk, and the pressure to get everything right the first time. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles reflected on the importance of giving yourself patience and grace instead of beating yourself up over every mistake. * Justin Goodman — Justin’s story with Project 55 centered on suicide prevention, connection, and the creation of tools that help people feel less alone. His journey reminded the hosts that sharing our darkest moments can become a lifeline for someone else. * Shannon Salge — Shannon’s story highlighted medical gaslighting, self-advocacy, and the connection between emotional stress and physical symptoms. Her work reminded the hosts how important it is to keep peeling the onion when something in your body or mind does not feel right. * Louis Kim — Louis brought humor, honesty, and a powerful reminder that outward success does not always mean inner peace. His message was clear: do not chase the money or the dream so hard that you forget to chase joy. * Shari B Kaplan — Shari’s two-part conversation explored plant-based healing, self-compassion, and what it means to be brave even when all you can do is make it happen from bed. Her story reminded everyone to be gentler with themselves and stop using a bat when a feather duster will do. * Deane Benninghoven — Deane’s episode focused on trauma, chronic pain, hypnosis, and the many different paths healing can take. His story was a reminder that talk therapy is not the only option, and sometimes we have to try something new to find what actually helps. * Joe Smarro — Joe’s conversation was a powerful look at masculinity, military service, police work, trauma, vulnerability, and first responder mental health. His willingness to take off the mask gave others permission to do the same. * Kathryn M Henry — Kathryn’s episode brought grief, humor, love, and “another fucking growth opportunity” into the conversation. Her dime moments reminded G-Rex and Dirty Skittles that the people we lose can still show up in ways that feel deeply personal and healing. * Jacintha Field — Jacintha’s work with Happy Souls Kids sparked a beautiful conversation about children, emotions, parenting, and helping kids navigate their storms. Her episode reminded the hosts that kids need language for their feelings, and parents need compassion while figuring it out too. KEY TAKEAWAYS * You do not have to keep abandoning yourself to keep a relationship, workplace, or version of your life alive. * Shame gets louder when we stay silent, but self-compassion gives us a way back to ourselves. * Suicide prevention starts with connection, resources, and reminders that people are valued. * Burnout can hide behind success, productivity, and a really convincing “I’m fine.” * Healing can come through therapy, humor, advocacy, hypnosis, grief rituals, parenting tools, or simply trying something different. * Kids need room to feel their feelings, and honestly, so do we grown-ass adults. ACTIONABLE ITEMS * Put your hand over your heart and remind yourself: “This belongs. I belong. I am allowed to want better.” * Create a “happy album” of things, people, songs, places, or moments that remind you joy still exists. * When life punches you in the face, try naming it what it is: another fucking growth opportunity. Then breathe, regroup, and take the next right step. REFERENCES MENTIONED * Project 55:  https://project55.org [https://project55.org] * 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:  https://988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org] * Find a Helpline:  https://findahelpline.com [https://findahelpline.com] * Happy Souls Kids:  https://happysoulskids.com IMPORTANT CHAPTERS * 00:00:37 — Welcome to the Season 17 ender G-Rex and Dirty Skittles kick off the finale with laughs, gratitude, and disbelief that Season 17 is already wrapping. * 00:05:51 — Kate King and toxic relationships The hosts reflect on choosing yourself, toxic workplaces, and knowing when to mend or move on. * 00:09:09 — Nicole Penrod and toxic shame Dirty Skittles opens up about perfectionism, self-doubt, and the pressure to get life right the first time. * 00:13:09 — Justin Goodman and suicide prevention G-Rex and Dirty Skittles revisit Justin’s story, Project 55, and the power of helping people feel less alone. * 00:16:16 — Shannon Salge and medical gaslighting The conversation turns to self-advocacy, physical symptoms, and being heard when something feels wrong. * 00:19:30 — Louis Kim and chasing joy Louis’s episode reminds the hosts that success is not the same as happiness, and joy matters. * 00:21:55 — Shari B Kaplan and self-compassion The hosts reflect on plant-based healing, bravery from bed, and being kinder to yourself. * 00:24:04 — Deane Benninghoven and chronic pain Deane’s story brings up trauma, hypnosis, chronic pain, and finding the healing path that works for you. * 00:26:34 — Joe Smarro and first responder mental health Joe’s episode sparks a conversation about vulnerability, masculinity, service, and taking off the mask. * 00:28:47 — Kathryn M Henry and grief The hosts talk about humor, loss, dime moments, and finding signs of love after grief. * 00:32:19 — Jacintha Field and helping kids feel Jacintha’s work with children leads to a conversation about parenting, emotions, and giving kids space to feel. * 00:34:13 — Gratitude, growth, and what comes next G-Rex and Dirty Skittles close the season with gratitude for the guests, listeners, awards, and the community. CLOSING CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews [https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews] #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #MentalHealthRecovery #ToxicRelationships #SuicidePrevention #BurnoutRecovery #ShameHealing #SelfWorthJourney #TraumaRecovery #GriefSupport #FirstResponderMentalHealth #ChronicPainAwareness #ParentingAndMentalHealth #EmotionalWellness #HealingJourney #SelfCompassion #JoyfulLiving   *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference. * United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org/] * Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Worldwide: Find a Helpline [https://findahelpline.com/] * Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub [https://www.thehelphub.co/] Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles * Official Website: goesoninourheads.net [https://goesoninourheads.net/] * Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads [https://www.facebook.com/shltthatgoesoninourheads] * Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles [https://www.instagram.com/grex_and_dirtyskittles/] * LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles [https://www.linkedin.com/in/g-rex-and-dirty-skittles-1367a8299/] * Join Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/ [https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/]) * Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop [https://www.goesoninourheads.shop/] Audio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jacintha Field on Helping Kids Regulate Big Feelings After Trauma

When life cracked wide open during COVID, separation, solo parenting, and her son’s emotional dysregulation, Jacintha Field didn’t just survive it — she turned it into a mission. In this powerful conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles talk with Jacintha about trauma, parenting, emotional literacy, and how helping kids feel safe starts with learning to be kinder to ourselves. AWARDS & DOWNLOADS LINE Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. FEEDBACK LINK LINE We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a [https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a] MENTAL HEALTH QUOTE “Every part of you is welcome. Every big feeling has a place.” — Inspired by Jacintha Field EPISODE DESCRIPTION When Jacintha Field’s son started school during COVID, her world was already upside down. She was navigating a brutal separation, solo parenting, and the emotional fallout of a child who didn’t yet have the words or tools to explain what was happening inside. His outbursts were intense. Her heart was breaking. And with child mental health waitlists stretching six to twelve months, Jacintha did what so many parents do when there are no easy answers — she went looking for them herself. In this deeply honest episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Jacintha, a Family and Child Counselor, Art Therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, to talk about trauma, parenting, sobriety, self-compassion, and the messy beauty of learning as you go. Jacintha shares how surviving domestic violence, getting sober, and rebuilding her life helped her understand that healing is not about being perfect. It is about repairing the rupture, naming the feeling, and choosing connection over shame. This conversation is for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone who has ever wondered, “Am I messing this up?” Jacintha reminds us that kids do not need perfect adults. They need safe ones. And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can say is, “I’m here. We’re a team. We’ll figure this out together.” Keywords: child mental health, emotional regulation, trauma healing, parenting support, self-regulation for kids, emotional literacy, solo parenting, domestic violence recovery, sober healing, mindful parenting, play therapy, child anxiety, family counseling, resilience, Happy Souls Kids. MEET OUR GUEST — JACINTHA FIELD Jacintha Field is a Family and Child Counselor, Art Therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, a global mental health platform helping children ages 5–12 regulate big feelings through storytelling, gamified tools, and the voices of athletes and role models they admire. After surviving domestic violence, emotional burnout, and solo parenting through her son’s anxiety and dysregulation, Jacintha turned her lived experience into a mission to help 100,000 children by 2027. Website: https://www.happysoulskids.com [https://www.happysoulskids.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16633spBm7 [https://www.facebook.com/share/16633spBm7] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacinthafield [https://www.instagram.com/jacinthafield] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinthafield [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinthafield] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jacinthafield [https://www.tiktok.com/@jacinthafield] KEY TAKEAWAYS * Kids are not “bad” when they have big emotions — they are often overwhelmed and asking for safety in the only way they know how. * Self-compassion is not optional in parenting. The kinder we are to ourselves, the safer we can become for our children. * Emotional literacy starts small: naming feelings, drawing them, talking about them, and giving kids space to understand what is happening inside. * Connection comes before correction. Sometimes a game of Uno does more healing than a lecture ever could. * Parents do not have to be perfect. Repair, accountability, and honesty matter more than pretending everything is fine. * Healing after trauma can become service, purpose, and something beautiful — but only after we let ourselves move through the mud. ACTIONABLE ITEMS * When your child has a big feeling, pause and ask: “What emotion might be underneath this behavior?” before reacting. * Try Jacintha’s circle exercise: draw a circle on paper and ask your child to draw how they feel inside it. * Practice repair after rupture. Try saying, “That was my big feeling coming out. I’m sorry. Can we try that again?” REFERENCES MENTIONED The Red Beast: Controlling Anger in Children with Asperger’s Syndrome — a children’s book that Jacintha referenced as a helpful tool for talking about anger and emotional regulation. Happy Souls Kids: https://www.happysoulskids.com [https://www.happysoulskids.com/] Raw with Jay Podcast — Jacintha’s podcast focused on real, honest conversations for parents and emotional healing. IMPORTANT CHAPTERS * 00:00:37 – Welcome to the Episode G-Rex and Dirty Skittles introduce the show and welcome Jacintha Field, also known as Jay, from Australia. * 00:02:04 – COVID, Separation, and Her Son’s Big Feelings Jacintha shares how her son’s intense outbursts during COVID and separation became the catalyst for her work in child counseling and emotional regulation. * 00:04:51 – Self-Compassion and Parenting Through Tantrums Jacintha explains how learning to be patient with herself helped her respond more compassionately to her son’s big emotions. * 00:06:47 – Therapy, Separation, and Rebuilding Jacintha opens up about attending 26 psychology sessions in one year and how support helped her move through the mud of separation. * 00:14:26 – Naming Emotions and Being Real With Kids Jacintha talks about showing up authentically with her child, naming emotions, and letting kids know every feeling has a place. * 00:18:04 – Tools for Helping Kids Express Feelings Jacintha shares practical tools like drawing emotions, breaking down the story behind the feeling, and helping children problem-solve without jumping in to fix everything. * 00:19:29 – Connection Before Correction Jacintha explains why children need connection, play, and emotional safety before they can respond well to guidance. * 00:24:44 – Winning, Learning, and Repairing Ruptures Jacintha talks about reframing failure, emotional dysregulation, and why repairing after a hard moment matters so much. * 00:30:58 – Advice to Her Younger Self Jacintha shares what she would tell her younger self: that she is worthy, valid, and never too much. * 00:35:43 – Happy Souls Kids and How to Connect Jacintha shares how listeners can find Happy Souls Kids, join beta testing, and connect with her work. * 00:37:42 – Final Message for Parents Jacintha leaves listeners with a reminder to be kind to themselves because every parent is doing the best they can. CLOSING CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews [https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews] #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #ChildMentalHealth #EmotionalRegulation #BigFeelings #TraumaHealing #ParentingSupport #MindfulParenting #SoloParenting #DomesticViolenceRecovery #SoberHealing #SelfRegulation #EmotionalLiteracy #PlayTherapy #ChildAnxiety #ResilientKids #HappySoulsKids *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference. * United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org/] * Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Worldwide: Find a Helpline [https://findahelpline.com/] * Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub [https://www.thehelphub.co/] Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles * Official Website: goesoninourheads.net [https://goesoninourheads.net/] * Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads [https://www.facebook.com/shltthatgoesoninourheads] * Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles [https://www.instagram.com/grex_and_dirtyskittles/] * LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles [https://www.linkedin.com/in/g-rex-and-dirty-skittles-1367a8299/] * Join Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/ [https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/]) * Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop [https://www.goesoninourheads.shop/] Audio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathryn Henry Turns Grief Into Another F*cking Growth Opportunity

Kathryn M. Henry joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles for a raw, beautiful, and deeply human conversation about grief, love, resilience, spirituality, and learning how to keep living after losing the person you thought you’d grow old with. Through her memoir A Dime to Say I Love You, Kathryn reminds us that even the heaviest moments can become another f*cking growth opportunity when we meet them with honesty, humor, and self-compassion. AWARDS & DOWNLOADS LINE Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. FEEDBACK LINK LINE We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a [https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a] TRIGGER NOTICE + 988 CRISIS REMINDER This episode includes conversations about grief, childhood abuse, suicide attempts, suicidal ideation, cancer, and loss. Please take care of yourself while listening. If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You are loved, wanted, and needed here. MENTAL HEALTH QUOTE “You’re good enough, and you don’t have to prove anything to anybody.” — Kathryn M. Henry EPISODE DESCRIPTION Grief can knock the air right out of you, but Kathryn M. Henry shows us that even the most painful chapters can hold love, wisdom, and one hell of a growth opportunity. In this episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Kathryn, author of A Dime to Say I Love You, to talk about losing her wife Lisa, finding spiritual meaning after death, and learning how to keep showing up when life feels impossible. Kathryn shares the story behind the dimes she and Lisa left for each other as tiny reminders of love. After Lisa’s transition following a decade-long cancer journey, those “dime moments” became something even deeper: signs of connection, comfort, and the belief that love does not simply disappear. Together, they talk about resilience, childhood trauma, suicide survival, spirituality, vulnerability, self-love, and the kind of healing that does not come wrapped in perfection. Kathryn also opens up about writing her memoir, living in integrity, and bringing her whole self into every room, from personal relationships to corporate leadership. This episode is for anyone walking through grief, questioning their purpose, rebuilding after trauma, or trying to find joy again without pretending everything is fine. Keywords: mental health podcast, grief healing, emotional wellness, suicide prevention, spiritual healing, resilience, self-love, LGBTQ mental health, trauma recovery, conscious leadership, grief support, vulnerability, personal growth, healing after loss, finding joy MEET OUR GUEST — KATHRYN M. HENRY Kathryn M. Henry is a writer, spiritual seeker, business leader, and author of A Dime to Say I Love You, a bold memoir that blends intimate storytelling with meditation, reflection, and personal growth practices. After a global career leading technology, operations, and people development at brands including Gap, Levi’s, and Lululemon, Kathryn now works at the intersection of leadership, inner life, social impact, and healing. Her story matters because she reminds us that grief does not have to harden us; it can open us. Website: https://kathrynmhenry.com [https://kathrynmhenry.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathryn.m.henry [https://www.instagram.com/kathryn.m.henry] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathryn.henry.94 [https://www.facebook.com/kathryn.henry.94] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrykathryn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrykathryn] Media and speaking inquiries: katmbueno@gmail.com KEY TAKEAWAYS * Grief is not something we “get over.” It becomes part of how we learn to live, love, and grow. * Kathryn’s “dime moments” show how signs of love can appear in small, powerful, and deeply personal ways. * Resilience is built by surviving what we thought would break us and realizing we are still here. * Vulnerability helps us connect in ways that polished perfection never could. * Self-love means choosing practices, people, and boundaries that help us stay grounded. * Living in integrity means showing up as the same whole person in every room. ACTIONABLE ITEMS * Look for your own “dime moments” — the small signs, memories, symbols, or reminders that help you feel connected to love. * When life hands you another f*cking growth opportunity, pause before beating yourself up and ask, “What can I learn here?” * Choose one grounding practice this week, like music, nature, meditation, journaling, movement, or calling someone who helps you feel safe. REFERENCES MENTIONED * A Dime to Say I Love You by Kathryn M. Henry * 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org] * Global crisis resources: https://findahelpline.com [https://findahelpline.com] * Gayatri Mantra by Deva Premal * Michael Bublé * Stoic philosophy * Buddhism * Hinduism * Meditation and contemplative practices IMPORTANT CHAPTERS * 00:00:37 – Welcome and episode introduction * 00:01:38 – Kathryn introduces A Dime to Say I Love You * 00:03:18 – The meaning behind Kathryn and Lisa’s “dime moments.” * 00:05:11 – Why Kathryn uses the word “transition.” * 00:06:20 – Signs from loved ones after loss * 00:07:33 – Writing the book to honor Lisa and help others * 00:10:06 – Another F*cking Growth Opportunity * 00:12:49 – How resilience is built through hard moments * 00:16:57 – Choosing joy and holding onto hope * 00:19:26 – Vulnerability, self-love, and real connection * 00:21:02 – The practices that keep Kathryn grounded * 00:26:38 – Sharing trauma, grief, and suicide survival * 00:30:10 – Kathryn’s spiritual path and healing practices * 00:33:17 – Turning brokenness into hope * 00:40:06 – Living in integrity in every room * 00:46:03 – Kathryn’s advice to her younger self * 00:46:36 – Learning that life gives no guarantees * 00:47:51 – Music as a grounding tool * 00:49:03 – Kathryn’s spirit animal * 00:49:44 – How to connect with Kathryn CLOSING CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews [https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews] #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #GriefHealing #GriefSupport #EmotionalWellness #Resilience #SelfLoveJourney #TraumaRecovery #SuicidePrevention #SpiritualHealing #HealingAfterLoss #LGBTQMentalHealth #VulnerabilityIsStrength #PersonalGrowth #ChooseJoy #ConsciousLeadership #ADimeToSayILoveYou *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference. * United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org/] * Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Worldwide: Find a Helpline [https://findahelpline.com/] * Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub [https://www.thehelphub.co/] Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles * Official Website: goesoninourheads.net [https://goesoninourheads.net/] * Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads [https://www.facebook.com/shltthatgoesoninourheads] * Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles [https://www.instagram.com/grex_and_dirtyskittles/] * LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles [https://www.linkedin.com/in/g-rex-and-dirty-skittles-1367a8299/] * Join Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/ [https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/]) * Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop [https://www.goesoninourheads.shop/] Audio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Unarmed: Joe Smarro on First Responder Mental Health

Joe Smarro walked away from a Marine uniform, a badge, and a gun belt that almost ended his life, and walked straight into the work of healing himself and the first responders nobody else was checking on. This conversation is about what it really takes to take off the mask, do the work, and become the kind of human who gives other people permission to do the same.   AWARDS & DOWNLOADS Brought to you by the 2024 and 2026 award-winning podcast Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads, a 2026 Women Podcasters Awards nominee in the Mindset and Mental Health category and honored among the Influential Women 2026 Women of the Year, with 4.5 million plus downloads across 160 plus countries and counting in Season 17. FEEDBACK LINK We'd love to hear what landed for you in this episode. Leave us a voice or text note here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a [//castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a] MENTAL HEALTH QUOTE "There's so much freedom on the other side of your suffering. There's so much freedom on the other side of your fear." Joe Smarro EPISODE DESCRIPTION Joe Smarro is a Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Officer, co-founder of one of the country's first Mental Health Units, and the kind of man who'll tell you exactly how close he came to not being here. In this episode, Joe sits down with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to share the story behind his Emmy-winning HBO documentary Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops, his book Unarmed, and the moment he chose therapy over the gun belt sitting next to him. This is a raw, hopeful, and surprisingly funny conversation about childhood trauma, an ACES score of nine, PTSD, persistent depressive disorder, and the addiction patterns that ran his life until he stopped running from himself. Joe shares why he believes therapy is a relationship, and most people just haven't found the right partner yet, why he started attending SLAA meetings at 44, and why he gets up every day, names his alarm clock with affirmations, and practices three points of reflection before his feet hit the floor. If you've ever worn a mask so tight you forgot what your real face felt like, this one's for you. Joe gives men, first responders, veterans, and anyone with a hard story permission to stop pretending and start healing. We talk masculine vulnerability, suicide prevention, scars versus scabs, the "selfish AF" approach to wellness, radical self-responsibility, and what it actually looks like to live on the other side of trauma. Keywords: first responder mental health, PTSD recovery, veteran mental health, suicide prevention, childhood trauma, ACES score, Joe Smarro, Unarmed book, Ernie and Joe Crisis Cops, masculine vulnerability, de-escalation, police mental health, trauma healing, therapy for men, addiction recovery MEET OUR GUEST Joe Smarro is a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Officer, co-founder of the SAPD Mental Health Unit, TEDx speaker, and bestselling Author of Unarmed: De-escalation Techniques to Cultivate Courage, Compassion, and Connection and 12 Laws of Maximizing the Human Experience. He's the founder and CEO of SolutionPoint+, a national consulting firm focused on mental wellness, resiliency, and crisis response training for first responders, public safety, public transit, and corporate clients. When he's not on stage or in a hotel somewhere in North America, you'll find him on the golf course. Connect with Joe: * Website: https://www.joesmarro.com [https://www.joesmarro.com ] * Company: https://www.solutionpointplus.com [https://www.solutionpointplus.com ] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joesmarro [https://www.instagram.com/joesmarro ] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josephsmarro [https://www.facebook.com/josephsmarro ] * Documentary: Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops on HBO Max [https://www.hbomax.com/movies/ernie-joe-crisis-cops/4c66297a-a71a-4c82-88f8-3bfec0d1b1be] KEY TAKEAWAYS * Share from a scar, not a scab. Healing first, then teaching. Joe waited until his wounds had closed before he started talking about them publicly, and that's why his story actually helps people. * Therapy is a relationship, not a one-time experiment. If the first therapist didn't fit, that doesn't mean therapy doesn't work. It means you haven't found your person yet. * "Selfish AF" is not a personality flaw. It's self-awareness, self-love, and self-care so you can actually show up for the people you love. * Take radical responsibility for the life you're living now. Bad things happened to you, and they weren't your fault. What you do with them today is. * Hope and curiosity keep you moving. Not motivation. Not hustle. Curiosity about what life looks like on the other side of the work. ACTIONABLE ITEMS * Build your own three points of reflection. Each morning, ask yourself where you are, why you're there, and who contributed to you being there. * Find three new things you're grateful for every day, and they cannot repeat. This forces you to hunt for the good rather than run on autopilot. * Identify the biggest fear holding you back right now and take one small step toward it this week. REFERENCES MENTIONED * Book: Unarmed by Joe Smarro, available at https://www.joesmarro.com * Documentary: Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops on HBO Max * TEDx Talk: "I See You" by Joe Smarro on YouTube * SLAA (Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous): https://slaafws.org IMPORTANT CHAPTERS * 00:00 Welcome * 02:15 Childhood trauma and the mask * 05:04 Behind the book Unarmed * 09:05 The gun belt moment * 13:22 First SLAA meeting at 44 * 16:20 Speed dating your therapist * 24:21 Joe's morning ritual * 29:42 Selfish AF * 35:10 Nobody is coming to save you * 42:56 Where to find Joe CLOSING CTA If this episode moved you, sat heavy on you, or made you finally pick up the phone, we want to know. Leave us a review or share your story at https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews. [https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews.] Listen on your favorite platform or on our website at https://www.goesoninourheads.net [https://www.goesoninourheads.net]. Your story might be the one that unlocks somebody else's prison. #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #JoeSmarro #Unarmed #FirstResponderMentalHealth #PTSDRecovery #SuicidePrevention #VeteranMentalHealth #TraumaHealing #PoliceWellness #MasculineVulnerability #ACES #CrisisCops #BreakTheStigma #TherapyWorks #SelfishAF #HealingTrauma #STGOIOH *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference. * United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org/] * Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Worldwide: Find a Helpline [https://findahelpline.com/] * Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub [https://www.thehelphub.co/] Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles * Official Website: goesoninourheads.net [https://goesoninourheads.net/] * Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads [https://www.facebook.com/shltthatgoesoninourheads] * Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles [https://www.instagram.com/grex_and_dirtyskittles/] * LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles [https://www.linkedin.com/in/g-rex-and-dirty-skittles-1367a8299/] * Join Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/ [https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/]) * Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop [https://www.goesoninourheads.shop/] Audio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Part 2: Deane’s Healing: Hypnosis, the Subconscious Mind, and Taking It Back

What if healing is not about going back and reliving everything that hurt you? In Part 2, Deane shares how hypnosis helped him change the way his mind responds and how that changed everything. AWARDS & DOWNLOADS LINE Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health), 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), 2026 Podcast Tonight Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast), and 2026 NYC Podcast Award Audience Choice Winner (Best Hosts), with over 4.5 million downloads and listened to in over 160 countries. FEEDBACK LINK LINE We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a [https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a] MENTAL HEALTH QUOTE “You don’t have to relive your trauma to heal it. You just need a new way to respond.” — Deane Benninghoven A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR — COZY EARTH Burnout is real. So is the moment when you finally slow down. Cozy Earth is built for that moment. Their robes and slippers are designed to help you actually rest, not just crash. If you spend most of your time taking care of everyone else, this is your reminder that you deserve care too. Head to https://www.cozyearth.com [https://www.cozyearth.com] and use code OURHEADS for 20% off. EPISODE DESCRIPTION This is where things start to make sense. In Part 2, Deane explains how hypnosis works in a way that feels practical and grounded. No gimmicks. No loss of control. Just a better understanding of how your mind actually operates. Anxiety is not random. It is learned. It is your brain trying to protect you based on past experiences. The problem is that those responses do not always match your life today. That is where people get stuck. Deane walks through how hypnosis helps you access the subconscious mind, where those patterns live. He also shares simple tools, like creating an anchor, that can help you interrupt anxiety in the moment and start building a different response. This part of the conversation is about taking your power back. Not in a loud or dramatic way. In a steady, repeatable way that actually works over time. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles ask the questions people are already thinking. What if it does not work? What if you have tried before? What if you feel stuck? The answer is not perfection. It is practice. Part 2 shows that healing is not about becoming someone new. It is about finally working with the mind you already have. Keywords: Deane Benninghoven, hypnosis, hypnotherapy, subconscious mind, anxiety relief, trauma healing, emotional regulation, self-hypnosis, behavior change, nervous system, mental health tools, healing journey MEET OUR GUEST — DEANE BENNINGHOVEN Deane Benninghoven is a hypnotherapist and the founder of Summit Hypnosis NW. He specializes in helping people work through anxiety, chronic pain, and trauma by addressing subconscious patterns. His approach is practical, collaborative, and grounded in real-life experience. Website: https://www.summithnosisnw.com/ [https://www.summithnosisnw.com/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summithnosisnw/ [https://www.instagram.com/summithnosisnw/] KEY TAKEAWAYS * Hypnosis works by accessing the part of the mind where patterns are stored * Anxiety is often a learned response, not a permanent condition * You do not need to relive trauma to heal from it * Simple tools can help regulate emotions in real time * Repetition is what creates lasting change * Healing is about building new responses, not just understanding old ones ACTIONABLE ITEMS * Create a simple grounding action you can use during stress * Practice reconnecting with a positive memory and how it feels * Think about the version of yourself you want to become and take one step toward it REFERENCES MENTIONED Summit Hypnosis NW https://www.summithnosisnw.com/ [https://www.summithnosisnw.com/] IMPORTANT CHAPTERS * 00:00 Welcome to Part 2 * 00:01:00 Anxiety explained * 00:03:00 Anchors and emotional regulation * 00:06:00 Healing without reliving trauma * 00:10:00 Subconscious patterns * 00:15:00 Everyday use of hypnosis * 00:20:00 Working with kids * 00:25:00 Advice to younger self * 00:35:00 Closing CLOSING CTA Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Remember to subscribe for more inspiring stories. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform, or visit our Website: https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews [https://goesoninourheads.net/add-your-podcast-reviews] #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch #Hypnotherapy #SubconsciousMind #AnxietyRelief #TraumaHealing #EmotionalRegulation #SelfHypnosis #MindBodyConnection #HealingTools #PersonalGrowth #MentalWellness *************************************************************************** If You Need Support, Reach Out If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a crisis hotline in your area. Remember, it’s OK not to be OK—talking to someone can make all the difference. * United States: Call or Text 988 — 988lifeline.org [https://988lifeline.org/] * Canada: Call or Text 988 — 988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Worldwide: Find a Helpline [https://findahelpline.com/] * Mental Health Resources and Tools: The Help Hub [https://www.thehelphub.co/] Stay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty Skittles * Official Website: goesoninourheads.net [https://goesoninourheads.net/] * Facebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheads [https://www.facebook.com/shltthatgoesoninourheads] * Instagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittles [https://www.instagram.com/grex_and_dirtyskittles/] * LinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty Skittles [https://www.linkedin.com/in/g-rex-and-dirty-skittles-1367a8299/] * Join Our Newsletter: (https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/ [https://grexanddirtyskittles.substack.com/]) * Merch Store: goesoninourheads.shop [https://www.goesoninourheads.shop/] Audio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.