Surviving Estrangement: Choosing Yourself Over a Toxic Family

Surviving Estrangement: Choosing Yourself Over a Toxic Family

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary Family estrangement is one of the most painful forms of grief because it asks us to mourn people who are still alive. In this deeply personal episode of The Survivors, Lisa and Natasha explore the complicated reality of walking away from relationships that have caused lasting harm. Through their own lived experiences, they talk about the emotional toll of toxic family dynamics, the loneliness that can come with choosing yourself, and the courage it takes to break generational cycles in pursuit of healing. Together, they unpack why estrangement is rarely a single moment, but often the result of years of unresolved pain, broken trust, and repeated wounds. They discuss the role of accountability in reconciliation, the importance of setting healthy boundaries without guilt, and why protecting your mental health is never something you need to apologize for. Whether you've experienced estrangement yourself or you're trying to better understand someone who has, this conversation offers compassion, validation, and hope that healing is possible—even when the path forward looks different than you imagined.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways * Estrangement is often a slow process, like death by a thousand cuts. * Prioritizing your mental health may mean walking away from family. * Sharing your truth can lead to feelings of isolation but is essential for healing. * Accountability from family members is crucial for reconciliation. * You have the right to set boundaries and protect your peace.   Chapters 00:00 - Understanding Estrangement: A Complex Topic 03:21 - Personal Experiences with Estrangement 06:23 - The Pain of Estrangement: Grieving Living Relationships 09:23 - Family Dynamics and Toxicity 12:29 - The Impact of Estrangement on Mental Health 15:24 - Navigating Estrangement: Self-Preservation and Boundaries 18:38 - The Loneliness of Estrangement 21:43 - Finding Freedom in Estrangement 24:50 - The Importance of Prioritizing Self-Care 27:52 - Hope and Healing Beyond Estrangement 30:37 - Final Thoughts on Estrangement and Moving Forward   Mental Health Resources * If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. * The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ * National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  * Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) [https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f] * The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ [https://www.thehelphub.co/]   Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast [https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast] 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast] 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel] 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast]   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

Hot Flashes & Hormones: Real Talk on Surviving Perimenopause & Menopause

Episode Summary This episode of The Survivors dives into surviving perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause through candid personal stories. Lisa and Natasha cover commonly missed symptoms—sleep disruption, brain fog, mood changes, joint pain, urinary changes, and surprising signs like itchy ears—plus conversations about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), treatment access, and self-advocacy with clinicians. Listeners are reminded they're not alone, encouraged to seek care and community, and invited to share experiences as the hosts plan follow-ups to track treatment outcomes and coping strategies.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways * Symptoms of menopause and perimenopause * Importance of early treatment and research * Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) experiences * Advocating for women's health in medical system * Uncommon symptoms like itchy ears and frozen shoulder * Impact of menopause on mental health and libido * The role of diet, exercise, and self-care during menopause   Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Menopause and Perimenopause 03:24 - Symptoms and Experiences of Menopause 06:27 - Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Insights 09:30 - The Importance of Research and Education 12:28 - Personal Experiences with HRT 15:18 - Understanding the Medical Perspective 18:13 - Conclusion and Future Discussions 19:46 - Navigating Hormonal Changes and Mental Health 23:59 - The Emotional Rollercoaster of Perimenopause 26:54 - Grief and Acceptance in Transitioning Bodies 32:13 - Building Healthy Routines for Well-Being 35:43 - Finding Balance Amidst Life's Chaos 41:09 - Empowerment Through Shared Experiences   Mental Health Resources * If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. * The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ * Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) [https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f] * The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ [https://www.thehelphub.co/]   Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast [https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast] 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast] 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel] 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast]   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

Invisible Grief: When the World Keeps Spinning After Loss

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In this episode of The Survivors, we explore what it feels like to carry the invisible weight of loss while the rest of the world keeps moving around you. Whether you're grieving the death of a loved one, navigating a life-changing loss, or supporting someone through one of the hardest seasons of their life, this conversation offers compassion, understanding, and practical insight. We talk about the profound isolation that often accompanies grief, the pressure to function when you're hurting inside, and why one of the most powerful things we can do for someone who's struggling is simply show up. Not with solutions. Not with advice. Just with our presence. Drawing from personal experiences with loss, we discuss how grief reshapes relationships, impacts family dynamics, and changes the way we move through everyday life. We also explore the importance of witnessing another person's pain, honoring the uniqueness of every grief journey, and extending ourselves the same compassion we'd offer to someone we love. If you've ever felt like you're living inside a cocoon of grief, if you've struggled to explain your pain to others, or if you've wondered how to better support someone who is hurting, this episode is for you. Because grief isn't something we "get over." It's something we learn to carry. And no one should have to carry it alone.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways * Why grief often feels invisible to everyone except the person carrying it * The loneliness that can come with loss * What it means to be a witness to someone else's pain * Why presence matters more than finding the "right" words * Navigating everyday life while grieving * The disconnect between your internal grief and the outside world * How grief affects relationships, friendships, and family dynamics * The unique nature of every grief journey * Common misconceptions about grief and healing * Coping mechanisms people use to survive difficult losses * The lasting impact of loss on identity and perspective * Learning to hold space for yourself and others * Finding empathy through lived experience * Practical ways to support someone who is grieving * Why grief isn't something we "move on" from, but something we learn to live alongside * The importance of self-compassion during periods of loss * How community and connection can help reduce isolation * A message of hope for anyone carrying the weight of grief   Chapters 00:00 - The Invisible Weight of Grief 03:28 - The Importance of Witnessing Grief 06:21 - The Loneliness of Grief 09:20 - Navigating Daily Life While Grieving 12:23 - The Unique Nature of Grief 16:01 - Coping Mechanisms and Family Dynamics 19:08 - The Impact of Grief on Relationships 22:16 - The Complexity of Grief and Memory 25:00 - Finding Empathy Through Grief 28:06 - A Message of Support for the Grieving   Mental Health Resources * If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. * The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ * National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  * Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) [https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f] * The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ [https://www.thehelphub.co/] Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast [https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast] 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast] 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel] 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast]   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

A Reflection on Pride Month: Coming Out, Living Authentically & Finding Your People

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In this conversation, Lisa and Natasha explore the themes of Pride Month, identity, and authenticity. They talk candidly about the significance of coming out, the essence of pride, and the evolution of personal identities. This poignant episode emphasizes the importance of representation within the LGBTQ+ community and the resilience required to live authentically in a world that often challenges one's true self. They explore the complexities of identity, acceptance, and the importance of community within the LGBTQ+ space. They discuss the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, particularly regarding mental health and societal acceptance, and emphasize the need for supportive resources. The conversation highlights the significance of community in fostering acceptance and understanding, as well as the critical role of organizations like The Trevor Project in providing support to those in need.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways * Pride Month is a time for celebration and authenticity. * Coming out can be a complex journey influenced by personal history. * Representation in the LGBTQ+ community is crucial for acceptance. * Pride is not just a party; it's about resilience and identity. * Our identities are fluid and evolve over time. * Living authentically is one of the bravest things one can do. * The essence of pride can be celebrated in many ways, not just at events. * Community support is vital for those navigating their identities. * Fear of judgment can hinder personal expression. * Embracing change is a part of personal growth. Many people hesitate to openly discuss their identities due to fear of judgment. * Sexuality should be a natural part of who we are, not something that needs to be singled out. * The feeling of being 'other' can be powerful and intimidating. * Pride has been politicized, making it difficult for some to express their identities. * Community acceptance can significantly impact mental health and well-being. * LGBTQ+ youth face higher risks of self-harm and suicide due to societal rejection. * Support systems are crucial for LGBTQ+ youth navigating their identities. * Resources like the Trevor Project provide essential support for LGBTQ+ individuals. * It's important to create safe spaces for open conversations about identity. * Everyone deserves to feel accepted and loved for who they are.   Chapters 00:00 - Celebrating Pride Month and Identity 03:05 - Coming Out and Authenticity 09:19 - The Essence of Pride 11:45 - Pride: Celebration or Protest? 14:02 - Evolving Identities and Personal Growth 17:28 - Navigating Identity and Acceptance 23:53 - The Importance of Community 30:27 - Mental Health Challenges in LGBTQ+ Youth 34:54 - Resources and Support for the LGBTQ+ Community   Mental Health Resources * If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. * The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ * The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ [https://www.thehelphub.co/] * National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  * Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) [https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f]   Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast [https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast] 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast] 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel] 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast]   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

A Mother’s Loss Part 2 — Finding Purpose After the Unthinkable with Alli Skrbek

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, the loss of a child & substance abuse and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with suicide loss survivor and mental health advocate Alli Skrbek, we continue exploring what it means to live, parent, grieve, and heal after the loss of a child. Just over a year ago, Alli's oldest son, Alex, died by suicide. In the aftermath of that unimaginable loss, Alli has become a passionate advocate for suicide prevention and mental health awareness, using her growing social media platform to break the silence around suicide, challenge stigma, and help others feel less alone. In this deeply raw and honest conversation, Alli shares how grief has transformed her life, how she navigates the ongoing challenges of raising her three younger sons while carrying the weight of profound loss, and why open, authentic conversations about mental health can save lives. Together, we discuss the impact of social media in creating connection and awareness, the unique challenges facing boys and men when it comes to mental health, and the subtle warning signs that families and loved ones should never ignore. Alli also speaks candidly about guilt, shame, judgment, and the misconceptions that often surround suicide loss—and why compassion, understanding, and education are so critical. Most importantly, Alli reminds us that grief and love can coexist. That honoring someone's life doesn't mean moving on from them. And that even in the darkest moments, there can be purpose, connection, and hope. So whether you're grieving a loss, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to better understand the realities of suicide and mental health, this conversation offers an important reminder: you're not alone and help is always out there.   Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™  Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.   Takeaways * How grief can transform us and reshape our purpose * The role of social media in mental health advocacy * Men's mental health and the pressures boys often face * Recognizing warning signs of suicidal ideation * Why honest conversations about mental health matter * Parenting through profound grief * Navigating guilt, shame, and societal misconceptions after suicide loss * Keeping memories alive while moving forward * Finding strength through family, community, and advocacy   Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background on Loss 03:05 - Transformation Through Grief 05:42 - The Power of Social Media Advocacy 08:37 - Navigating Negative Feedback 11:44 - Men's Mental Health Awareness 14:38 - Recognizing Warning Signs in Boys 17:34 - The Importance of Open Conversations 20:39 - Breaking the Stigma Around Suicide 22:39 - Navigating Grief and Parenting 25:00 - Keeping Memories Alive 27:53 - Understanding Guilt and Shame 33:27 - The Power of Advocacy 38:07 - Finding Strength in Family 40:27 - Misunderstandings of Grief   Mental Health Resources * If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help. * The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/ * National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)  * Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) [https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f] * The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/ [https://www.thehelphub.co/]   Follow & Connect With Us 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast [https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast] 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast] 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel] 🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast]   See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.