When Grief Rewires You: Surviving After the Unthinkable

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.

A Mother's Story Part 1: Alli Skrbek Talks About Her Son's Suicide

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary In part one of our two-part conversation with mental health advocate, influencer, and mom Alli Skrbek [https://www.tiktok.com/@alli_mom?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc], Alli shares her heartbreaking journey of losing her oldest son Alex to suicide, exploring his life, his struggles with depression and alcohol and drugs, and the tragic circumstances leading to his death. This candid and raw conversation offers insights into mental health, warning signs, and the importance of awareness and intervention. Allie talks openly and emotionally about grief, family dynamics, substance use, and she speaks about her journey into mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.  She's a warrior, and she's sharing Alex's story—and her grief—with the world to help normalize the conversations so many families are afraid to have. Through her honesty, vulnerability, and advocacy, Alli is breaking down stigma, shining a light on the realities of mental illness and suicide loss, and reminding other grieving parents that they are not alone. This is one of our most powerful conversations ever about love, loss, survival, and the courage it takes to keep telling the stories that matter.   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 * Alex's personality and passions * Signs of depression and warning signs * Circumstances leading to Alex's suicide * Family dynamics and mental health challenges * The impact of trauma and substance abuse * Recognize early warning signs of depression and suicidal ideation * Seek professional help for loved ones showing signs of distress * Create a safety plan for at-risk individuals * Advocate for mental health awareness and education   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Allie's Story 03:39 Remembering Alex: A Tribute to His Life 06:34 Understanding the Signs of Struggle 09:11  The Impact of Relationships on Mental Health 11:53  Navigating Family Dynamics and Mental Health 14:33  The Struggles of Young Adulthood 17:33  Crisis Moments and Warning Signs 20:10  The Consequences of Substance Abuse 23:17  Seeking Help and Facing Challenges 26:12  The Journey of Healing and Reflection 28:00  The Turning Point: A Mother's Struggle 29:42  Unraveling the Truth: The Hidden Struggles 37:10  The Tragic News: A Life Cut Short 43:36  The Aftermath: Seeking Answers and Justice   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 Alli on TikTok at @alli_mom (Alex's Sky) [https://www.tiktok.com/@alli_mom?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc]   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.

When the Old You Dies: Navigating Identity After Loss

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.   Episode Summary This episode of The Survivors explores how major losses and life changes — from suicide and family death to coming out and leaving a polygamous cult — reshape who we are. Hosts share personal stories about identity shifts, isolation, grief, and the hard work of finding new communities and meaning. Through candid conversation, Lisa & Natasha offer compassion, resources, and hope for anyone learning to live with a changed self.   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.   Key Topics * Moments of identity realization * Impact of loss and trauma on self * Coming out as pansexual after years of marriage * Exiting polygamous cults and redefining self * The importance of language in healing and identity Key Takeaways * Identity is fluid and constantly evolving. * Loss can lead to profound self-discovery. * Open communication about identity fosters healing. * Support systems are crucial during life transitions. * Embracing change can lead to personal empowerment. Chapters 00:00 Identity Shifts and Realizations 06:37 Navigating Relationships After Loss 12:32 Coming Out and Embracing Sexuality 18:27 The Importance of Language in Identity 25:34 Excommunication and Loss of Community 31:12 Embracing Change 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/ * 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.

When 'I'm Fine' is a Lie: The Burden of Polite Answers

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering   Episode Summary In this episode, Lisa & Natasha explore the dangers of the automatic response "I'm fine," and how trauma reshapes honesty in everyday conversations, and practical ways to ask and answer "How are you?" with authenticity and care. They discuss coping mechanisms like humor, the role of crisis resources such as 988, the meaning behind the semicolon tattoo, dealing with triggers, and how to create safer spaces for vulnerability and support.   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.   Key Topics * The danger of saying 'I'm fine' * Alternative ways to respond to 'How are you?' * The role of trauma and triggers in communication * The importance of honesty and vulnerability * Using symbols like the semicolon for mental health awareness Key Takeaways * Saying 'I'm fine' often masks true feelings and can lead to emotional disconnection. * Asking 'What's new with you?' encourages more genuine conversations. * Sharing honest feelings can foster trust and support. * Body language and microexpressions are key to understanding true emotions. * Symbols like the semicolon serve as powerful reminders of resilience.   Chapters 00:00 The Dangers of Saying 'I'm Fine' 02:59 Navigating Vulnerability in Conversations 06:01 Coping Mechanisms: Humor and Trauma 08:50 The Importance of Honest Communication 12:08 Understanding Crisis and Support Systems 15:01 The Semicolon: A Symbol of Survival 18:00 Living with Trauma and Grief 19:37 Understanding Triggers and Personal Responsibility 22:15 Navigating Friendships and Communication 25:46 The Power of Shared Experiences 29:11 Redefining Responses to 'How Are You?' 36:28 Honesty in Conversations and Emotional Safety   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.