Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads

• Kelly on Traumatic Brain Injury, Neurofatigue, and the Fight to Feel ‘Normal’ Again

  After a car crash left her with a traumatic brain injury, Kelly spent months believing she was “fine” — until neurofatigue, memory lapses, and frightening moments behind the wheel told a different story. In this emotional and eye-opening episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Kelly to talk about the invisible aftermath of TBI, the terror of feeling unlike yourself, and the long, patient fight to find your way back. Kicking off this powerful conversation, Kelly shares how she hid her brain injury for years, what neurofatigue actually feels like, and how therapy, mindfulness, and sheer determination helped her rebuild a life she thought she had lost. If you’ve ever felt “not yourself,” overwhelmed, or misunderstood in your healing process, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and hope. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “You’re not ‘crazy’ — your brain is hurt, and hurt things need care before they can function again.” — Kelly Tuttle Episode Description When Kelly’s car accident in 2015 left her concussed, she did what so many of us do — she tried to push through it. What she didn’t know was that she was living with a traumatic brain injury that would slowly dismantle her energy, her clarity, and her sense of self. Months later, after falling asleep at the wheel, mixing up words, and feeling wildly unlike herself, Kelly finally learned the truth: her brain was fighting for its life, and she needed help. In this powerful episode, Kelly joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to talk about neurofatigue, the fear of feeling “broken,” and the devastating impact of invisible injuries. She shares how she hid her disability for years, the therapies that actually helped, and the moment she realized she needed to tell her story so other survivors wouldn’t feel alone. From martial arts to mindfulness, from toast-and-coffee mishaps to rebuilding her identity one baby step at a time, Kelly’s journey is a reminder that recovery isn’t linear — and it isn’t fast. But it is possible. Whether you’re healing from a brain injury, dealing with cognitive overwhelm, or trying to understand a loved one’s struggles, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and hope to a conversation that desperately needs it. Keywords: traumatic brain injury, neurofatigue, concussion recovery, brain health, TBI survivor, cognitive fatigue, mindfulness for healing, speech therapy, brain injury support, invisible disabilities, Kelly Tuttle, mental health recovery, neuro rehabilitation, post-concussion symptoms Meet Our Guest — Kelly Tuttle Kelly Tuttle is a neurology nurse practitioner, TBI survivor, and author dedicated to helping people navigate the hidden challenges of life after brain injury. Through her book After the Crash and her online community, she offers practical tools, hope, and validation to those struggling to return to work, school, and daily routines. Kelly also brings decades of martial arts experience, a wicked sense of humor, and a deep passion for brain-loving habits to her advocacy. Website: https://kellytuttle.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brain_np_/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-tuttle-72589810/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084306369863TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brainlovingnp Key Takeaways Neurofatigue is real, disabling, and often misunderstood — and it can shut the brain down without warning. You’re not “fine” just because you look functional; invisible injuries still deserve care. A brain injury can change your identity, but it can also uncover deeper compassion and clarity. Recovery takes years, not weeks — and every tiny step forward counts. You cannot heal alone. The right people, tools, and structure make a world of difference. Actionable Items Treat your energy like currency—budget it intentionally and stop before you run out. Use external supports like timers, journaling, and visual cues to reduce cognitive load. Advocate for yourself: accommodations aren’t a weakness; they’re a matter of survival and sustainability. References Mentioned After the Crash by Kelly Tuttle Neurotherapy and speech therapy for cognitive rehabilitation Behavioral optometry for vision-related TBI symptoms Mindfulness and adult coloring as grounding practices Important Chapters 00:01:17 – The crash that changed everything 00:02:58 – Falling asleep at the wheel: the wake-up call 00:06:00 – What neurofatigue really feels like 00:11:17 – Losing martial arts skills and realizing “I’m not okay.” 00:13:43 – How her family carried her through the darkest moments 00:16:02 – Sound sensitivity, vision issues, and therapies that helped 00:18:34 – Meeting the “new me” after brain injury 00:23:30 – Writing After the Crash to help other survivors 00:24:35 – Finding joy again through small, intentional moments 00:38:45 – From forgetting toast to writing a book 00:41:48 – Kelly’s best advice: “Don’t do it alone.” 00:42:33 – Theme songs, favorite words, and the power of humor 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 #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaticBrainInjury #Neurofatigue #BrainInjurySurvivor #ConcussionRecovery#InvisibleDisability #BrainHealth #HealingJourney #NeuroRehab #MindfulnessPractice#CognitiveFatigue #BrainInjurySupport #KellyTuttle #AfterTheCrash ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf 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.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: Sign Up HereMerch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Michael on Trauma Without the Pain: The Cortina Method That’s Changing PTSD Forever

  Kicking off this mind-blowing conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina, the creator of The Cortina Method. This groundbreaking, brain-based approach helps people heal trauma without reliving a single moment of pain. From frustration with outdated therapy models to developing a 90% effective trauma-healing process, Michael brings the kind of hope and clarity our hurting world desperately needs. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads Important Dates: • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here: https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Hope is great — but real healing is when you leave with joy, energy, and relief.” — inspired by Michael Cortina Episode Description What if healing trauma didn’t have to hurt? What if you never had to relive a single painful memory again? In this powerful and eye-opening episode, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Michael Cortina, founder and creator of The Cortina Method — a brain-based methodology designed to resolve trauma, PTSD, and deeply rooted emotional pain without retraumatization. And yes… It’s as life-changing as it sounds. Michael shares how years of witnessing clients suffer through traditional therapy models — reliving trauma, crying through sessions, leaving drained instead of hopeful — pushed him to rethink everything we’ve been taught about healing. His frustration with old-school approaches and his belief that “there has to be a better way” led him to develop a method so effective that many people report complete symptom resolution in a single session. Together, the trio dives into why reliving trauma isn’t necessary, how the brain actually reprocesses pain, what “conscious ketchup” means, and why hope isn't the goal — true resolution is. Michael also opens up about the backlash he faced for challenging outdated mental health systems… and why he refuses to stop. If you’ve ever wished healing could be faster, gentler, or more empowering, this episode will expand your entire understanding of what’s possible. Real transformation doesn’t have to be torture — and Michael is here to prove it. Keywords: trauma resolution, PTSD healing, brain-based therapy, emotional healing, The Cortina Method, trauma recovery without reliving, subconscious reprocessing, mental health innovation, trauma treatment breakthrough, healing trauma gently, therapist burnout solutions, brain rewiring, limiting beliefs healing, emotional pain relief, sustainable trauma healing Meet Our Guest — Michael Cortina Michael Cortina is a Trauma Resolution Expert and the Founder, Creator, and CEO of The Cortina Method. This brain-based healing methodology resolves trauma and disturbing emotions without requiring people to revisit painful memories. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, Michael is a national keynote speaker, international PTSD authority, and leader in cutting-edge trauma intervention. His groundbreaking work on PTSD was published in Frontiers in Psychiatry in 2024. People worldwide seek Michael’s services and trainings, and his work has been featured across ABC, FOX, NBC, CBS, THE CW, and 400+ media outlets. Connect with Michael:Website: https://michaelcortina.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelcortinamethod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.cortina.184/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQIPdyf3qwC3rJck9fwBwgQLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-cortina-ptsd-expert/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mike_dancing_therapist?_r=1&_t=ZP-91wxIo0fV0g Key Takeaways Healing trauma does not require reliving trauma — and it can even feel energizing. The “mission of the organism” is to avoid pain, not bathe in it — and therapy should honor that. Resistance isn’t real; it’s the brain protecting you in the only way it knows. The Cortina Method aims for completion, not coping — resolution rather than lifelong symptoms. Practitioners deserve healing too; they shouldn’t leave sessions drained or traumatized. Healing is possible — not just theoretically, but measurably, joyfully, and sustainably. Actionable Items If past trauma still triggers you, explore modalities that don’t require retelling the story — your healing doesn’t have to hurt. Ask yourself: “Is this pain coming from memory loops my brain hasn’t reprocessed yet?” Visit Michael’s directory to find a trained practitioner or learn more about the method: https://michaelcortina.com/ References Mentioned The Cortina Method Practitioner Directory — https://michaelcortina.com 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org/ Important Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + Meet Michael 00:02:00 – Imagining trauma care with 90% effectiveness 00:06:00 – Why traditional therapy retraumatizes people 00:11:00 – The moment Michael almost left the field 00:15:00 – Early success stories that changed everything 00:21:00 – “Conscious ketchup” and how the brain catches up after healing 00:30:00 – Boundaries, growth, and healing through joy 00:37:00 – Trauma healing for veterans 00:39:00 – Advice Michael would give his younger self 00:46:00 – How he practices self-maintenance as a healer 00:47:20 – Closing reflections + CTA 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 #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#TraumaHealing #PTSDRecovery #TheCortinaMethod #BrainBasedHealing #EmotionalHealing #TraumaTherapy #HealingJourney #MentalHealthInnovation #YouAreNotAlone #TraumaRecoveryTools #NeuroscienceHealing #TherapyWorks #PodcastCommunity #Bleav ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf 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.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: Sign Up HereMerch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Rising Inch by Inch: Virginia on Hope, Healing, and Reclaiming Your Life

  Kicking off this conversation with a story that reminds us what real resilience looks like, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with the extraordinary Virginia Oman, licensed clinical mental health therapist, mindset coach, and living proof that transformation is possible inch by inch. From losing her mobility and her music to rebuilding her life through intuition, movement, nature, and radical hope, Virginia brings a deep, soul-level understanding of what it means to rise again. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads is a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting. We Have Been Nominated We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards for Best Mental Health Podcast. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote genuinely matters. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheadsImportant Dates:• Voting ends December 25, 2025• Judging begins in January• Shortlist announced January 26• Winners revealed February 28 Your support has carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Feedback We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a Mental Health Quote “Hope isn’t a feeling — it’s a decision you make one inch at a time.” — inspired by Virginia Oman Episode Description When life pulls the rug out from under you, inch-by-inch progress can feel impossible — but for Virginia Oman, it became the blueprint that saved her life. In this powerful and deeply human episode, Virginia shares her journey from a wheelchair, chronic pain, and total hopelessness to becoming a licensed mental health therapist, mindset coach, positive psychology practitioner, and wellness master who helps others rebuild their lives with intention and joy. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles talk with Virginia about the moment a quiet inner voice told her, “Listen to what your body is telling you,” and how following that intuition — even when it contradicted medical advice — led her to design her own healing plan fueled by perseverance, movement, gratitude, and nature. She opens up about swimming inch by inch, trusting her instincts, and refusing to let outside forces define her future. Together, they explore the emotional exhaustion of hopelessness, the power of small wins, and why joy is something you intentionally create rather than stumble into. Virginia explains how she now guides clients through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions using holistic, mind-body practices rooted in freedom, joy, and self-trust. This episode is a reminder that healing isn’t linear — it’s a choice, a practice, and an act of courage. If you’ve ever felt stuck, defeated, or like your life has shrunk around you, Virginia’s story is the spark you’ve been waiting for. Keywords: mindset coach, trauma recovery, emotional healing, chronic illness resilience, hope after despair, mind-body wellness, positive psychology, gratitude practice, anxiety tools, depression support, nature healing, movement therapy, rebuilding your life, personal transformation, resilience stories Meet Our Guest — Virginia Oman Virginia Oman, LCMHC, NCPT, is a licensed clinical mental health therapist, mindset coach, personal trainer, and wellness master who helps people move from despair to joy-filled living. After rebuilding her own life from the depths of hopelessness and physical collapse, Virginia now guides clients through holistic mind-body practices that foster resilience, freedom, and fulfillment. Connect with Virginia:Website: https://virginiaoman.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/virginiaomanofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virginiaomanofficial/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSfzfJKG2YGi3FRB_TYeMigLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/virginia-oman/ Key Takeaways Healing starts with one decision: don’t give up on yourself — even when progress is microscopic. Your body holds wisdom your mind may not yet be ready to hear. Learn to listen. Joy is intentional. You create it through movement, gratitude, and connection with nature. Medical advice matters, but only you get to be the captain of your life. Laughter, friendship, and community are powerful forms of medicine. Trauma and darkness don’t erase your future — they prepare you for it. Actionable Items Try Virginia’s “triple shot”: gratitude + movement + nature to shift your state fast. Identify one area where you’re letting outside voices overrule your intuition — and reclaim it. Take one tiny, inch-by-inch step toward something your future self will thank you for. References Mentioned 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.orgVirginia Oman’s Website — https://virginiaoman.com Important Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + Virginia’s introduction 00:04:00 – Losing hope and hearing the voice that changed everything 00:06:00 – Swimming inch by inch and refusing to quit 00:11:00 – Rebuilding life, mobility, and meaning 00:15:00 – Gratitude, joy, and daily intention 00:23:00 – Nature, movement, and healing the mind 00:33:00 – Freedom, joy, and the life she lives today 00:36:00 – How listeners can connect with Virginia 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 #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#MindsetCoach #EmotionalHealing #TraumaRecovery #ChronicIllnessJourney #Resilience#PositivePsychology #GratitudePractice #NatureHealing #AnxietySupport #DepressionSupport#HolisticWellness #PersonalTransformation #YouAreNotAlone #PodcastCommunity #Bleav ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf 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.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: Sign Up HereMerch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Melissa on OCD & Anxiety Recovery: Real Tools That Actually Help

  Kicking off Season 15 with a conversation that hits straight at the heart of what so many people silently struggle with, Dr. Melissa Dufrene joins us to unpack the mental noise, overwhelm, and emotional exhaustion that OCD and anxiety can create — and what becomes possible when someone finally gets the right support. From the battles people fight behind closed doors to the quiet courage it takes to challenge fear rather than accommodate it, this opening episode sets the tone for a season rooted in honesty, healing, and hope. In this deeply human conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Melissa — board-certified clinical psychologist and co-owner of Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety — to explore recovery, resilience, and the real work of reclaiming your life. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a We have been nominated for Best Mental Health Podcast We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote has real impact. Vote here: https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads​ Important Dates:​ • Voting ends December 25, 2025 • Judging begins in January • Shortlist announced January 26 • Winners revealed February 28 Your love and support have carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Mental Health Quote “You don’t rise by avoiding fear — you rise by walking with it.” — inspired by Dr. Melissa Dufrene Episode Description When the world shut down in 2020, anxiety didn’t shrink — it intensified. Clinicians were overwhelmed, families were struggling, and people with OCD suddenly found themselves trapped in a nightmare of uncertainty and isolation. In this powerful Season 15 opener, Dr. Melissa Dufrene joins G-Rex and Dirty Skittles to pull back the curtain on what OCD and anxiety actually feel like from the inside — and why healing is absolutely possible with the right tools. Melissa shares how she and her business partner launched Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety during the pandemic, driven by the urgent need for specialized care. She explains why accommodating anxiety might feel comforting in the moment but can create long-term hardship — especially for kids who slowly retreat into smaller, safer worlds without realizing what they’re losing. Together, they explore the emotional exhaustion that comes with living in a noisy, fear-driven mind, the power of being truly heard, and why sometimes the most healing phrase in the world is, “Yeah… that sucks.” G-Rex shares her experience helping a stranger through a grounding exercise in a crowded conference hall. At the same time, Melissa offers practical, research-backed strategies rooted in exposure therapy, values-based action, and learning to let fear exist without feeding it. This episode is heartfelt, hopeful, and packed with real-talk reminders that anxiety isn’t weakness — it’s a signal. And when people get the right support, they rise higher than they ever imagined. Keywords: OCD recovery, anxiety tools, exposure therapy, intrusive thoughts help, cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP therapy, mental health support, emotional resilience, anxiety recovery tips, social anxiety, mental wellness, OCD specialist, pandemic mental health, fear response, coping skills, Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety Meet Our Guest — Dr. Melissa Dufrene Dr. Melissa Dufrene, PsyD, ABPP, is a board-certified clinical psychologist and the co-owner of Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety, where she specializes in evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders, and related conditions. Trained at Rogers Memorial Hospital, one of the nation’s top OCD programs, Melissa blends clinical expertise with compassion, clarity, cultural humility, and humor. She is devoted to increasing access to high-quality OCD and anxiety treatment, training clinicians, and empowering clients to stop avoiding life and step toward the things they value most. When she’s not working with clients, Melissa can be found chasing after her two boys, enjoying New Orleans food and festivals, diving into music with her husband, or daydreaming about her next scuba trip. Connect with Melissa:Website: https://riseocdandanxiety.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseocdandanxietyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/riseocdandanxietyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/riseocdandanxiety/ Key Takeaways Anxiety doesn’t mean you’re broken — it means you’ve been carrying too much alone. Accommodating anxiety feels good short-term, but becomes restrictive long-term. OCD recovery requires willingness, courage, and letting discomfort exist without feeding it. Safe, honest relationships create the foundation for healing. The right therapist doesn’t “fix” you; they help you rise. Kids and adults alike need exposure to life, not retreat from it. Actionable Items Choose one value and take a single small action aligned with it today — even if your anxiety pushes back. Use a one-time-per-day news summary to reduce doom-scrolling and fear spirals, a strategy inspired by Melissa’s client. When supporting someone, ask: “How can I show up for you — listening, or problem-solving?” References Mentioned International OCD Foundation — https://iocdf.org 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org Rise Center for OCD & Anxiety — https://riseocdandanxiety.com/ Important Chapters 00:00 – Season 15 kickoff and New Orleans conversation 00:09:00 – COVID, anxiety overload, and why kids struggled most 00:13:00 – Navigating conferences and events with anxiety and OCD 00:19:00 – Safe spaces, honesty, and community support 00:26:00 – How to actually find the right therapist 00:35:00 – Anxiety theme songs and G-Rex’s subway moment 00:47:00 – Why “Rise” is Melissa’s favorite word 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 #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#OCDRecovery #AnxietyTools #ExposureTherapy #CBTSkills #EmotionalHealing#AnxietySupport #RiseCenterForOCDAandAnxiety #HealingJourney #YouAreNotAlone#Resilience #TherapyWorks #MentalHealthCommunity #PodcastCommunity #Bleav ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf 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.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: Sign Up HereMerch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Joy, Boundaries, and the Messy Middle — Season 14 Finale

  We made it — Season 14 is officially in the books! In this special season-ender, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down to reflect on the incredible humans who opened their hearts, shared their truths, and reminded us that healing is anything but linear. This season was all about joy, boundaries, and the beautifully messy middle — the place where real growth happens. Together we laughed, cried, fangirled, and found purpose in the hard sh!t life throws our way. And that’s what makes Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads: real talk, real stories, no shame, no judgment. Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave us written or voice feedback here:https://castfeedback.com/67521f0bde0b101c7b10442a We have been nominated for Best Mental Health Podcast We are thrilled to share that Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads has been nominated in the Podcast Tonight Awards. This is a listener-driven award, which means your vote has real impact. Vote here:https://www.podcasttonightawards.com/voteheads​ Important Dates: Voting ends December 25, 2025 Judging begins in January Shortlist announced January 26 Winners revealed February 28 Your love and support have carried us this far, and we are grateful beyond words. Mental Health Quote “Healing isn’t a straight line — sometimes the messiest moments are where you rediscover yourself.” Episode Description This isn’t your average episode — it’s our Season 14 Ender, and damn, what a season it was. G-Rex and Dirty Skittles kick back to reflect on the stories, breakthroughs, laughter, chaos, and deeply human moments that made this year unforgettable. From the absolute holy sht* excitement of interviewing Mayim Bialik, to Joe’s powerful return-to-his-roots story of helping kids through trauma… from Diane’s fearless humor and resilience while navigating chronic pain, to B-Side’s raw honesty about MS, identity, and finding your worth… every guest brought something real, tender, and necessary. We revisit Tabitha’s bravery as a listener-turned-guest sharing her healing journey, Jewel’s heartwarming conversation about friendship and belonging (yes, the one that made G-Rex cry), Brenda’s blend of spooky-season fun and anxiety awareness, Melissa’s courage during her “ER wakeup calls,” Arlene’s reminder to chase joy over titles, Heather’s laughter-packed conversation about womanhood and menopause, Dr. Pete’s sports-psychology wisdom, and Angie’s story of shame, survival, and rebuilding from the inside out. Season 14 was a beautiful mix of grit and grace — a reminder that healing isn’t linear, that boundaries matter, that joy is essential, and that connection keeps us going. Whether you’ve been here since Episode 1 or you joined us this year, this season finale is your invitation to honor your own messy middle. SEO Keywords: mental health stories, healing journey, women’s mental health, trauma recovery, friendship and belonging, anxiety tools, MS journey, chronic illness, boundaries, joy, resilience, emotional wellness, coping skills, community healing, podcast for mental health Meet Our Guests — Season 14 Lineup Mayim Bialik — Actor, neuroscientist, podcaster, and mental health advocate, reminding us that even people we idolize struggle. Joe — Survivor-turned-mentor helping kids through trauma with compassion and presence. Diane — A hilarious, resilient soul living with rheumatoid arthritis and choosing joy daily. B-Side (Robert) — Musician navigating life and purpose after MS changed everything. Tabitha — A Listener who became part of the story, sharing her truth and healing with courage. Jewel — Friend, connector, and reminder that belonging is a lifeline. Brenda Ganske — Host of Horrifying History, blending spooky stories with real talk on anxiety and OCD. Melissa — Creator of Embracing Layers, teaching us to stop abandoning ourselves. Arlene — Former attorney turned coach, helping people rediscover joy beyond burnout. Heather — A vibrant, hilarious voice speaking honestly about womanhood and perimenopause. Dr. Pete — Sports psychologist advocating for mental strength on and off the field. Angie — Survivor who turned shame into purpose and built a community out of pain. Key Takeaways Healing isn’t linear — joy, pain, and growth coexist. Boundaries aren’t selfish; they’re protection for your peace. Everyone has a messy middle, even people who seem confident or accomplished. Laughter and connection make the hard stuff survivable. Community is medicine — and this one keeps getting stronger. Actionable Items Check in with yourself weekly: Where do I need more joy? Where do I need more boundaries? When anxiety hits, try grounding — 5-4-3-2-1, breathing rituals, or a quick emotional inventory. Practice reaching out — one text, one call, one moment of connection can shift your whole day. References Mentioned 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — https://988lifeline.org EMDR Therapy Horrifying History Podcast Embracing Layers Network Important Chapters 00:00 — Season 14 Kickoff + “How the hell did we get here?” energy 06:58 — The Mayim Bialik fangirl moment of the century 10:40 — Joe’s full-circle healing journey with trauma-impacted kids 14:45 — Diane’s stories, humor, chronic pain, and living fully 17:03 — B-Side’s MS story + dark humor therapy 18:15 — Tabitha’s serendipitous connection and story of healing 20:46 — Friendship, belonging, and the episode that made G-Rex cry 23:16 — Brenda brings spooky-season wisdom + anxiety tools 24:47 — Melissa’s anxiety journey and learning to choose peace 26:25 — Arlene on burnout, purpose, and quitting the chase 28:49 — Heather on menopause, womanhood, and laughing through chaos 30:23 — Dr. Pete’s sports psychology magic + “mind is a muscle” 33:23 — Angie’s survival story and the power of ending shame 36:36 — Final reflections + what Season 15 and beyond will bring 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 #MentalHealthPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Grex #DirtySkittles #Podmatch#EmotionalWellness #BoundariesMatter #HealingJourney #Resilience #WomenInPodcasting#AnxietySupport #TraumaHealing #ChronicIllnessWarrior #CommunityHealing#SelfDiscovery #JoyAndHealing #PodcastCommunity #MessyMiddle #FindYourJoy #PodcastTonight ***************************************************************************If You Need Support, Reach OutIf 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.orgCanada: Call or Text 988 — 988.caWorldwide: Find a HelplineMental Health Resources and Tools: The Help HubStay Connected with G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesOfficial Website: goesoninourheads.netFacebook: @shltthatgoesoninourheadsInstagram: @grex_and_dirtyskittlesLinkedIn: G-Rex and Dirty SkittlesJoin Our Newsletter: Sign Up HereMerch Store: goesoninourheads.shopAudio Editing by NJz Audio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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