Find out more about him on TikTok @RetiredPoliceLawrenced

*Please RATE the show below and leave a REVIEW with your thoughts and opinions. We’re always open to feedback!

In this episode, I do a little housekeeping and fill you in on some of the details on why the show has been on pause for so long. There's been a lot of moving parts in my personal life. I provide some clarity as to what was going on (without going into too much detail).

I then shift to talk about a coping strategy for anxiety (box breathing) and PTSD (grounding exercises) and review details of a Zero Suicide Safety Plan to help those who are struggling. Moving forward, all episodes will be broadcast on TikTok so if you ever hear me address an audience, it'll be TikTok :).

Hope everyone is well. I look forward to being back behind the mic!

Paul describes how a diagnosis of Mono eventually led to a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as doctors were unable to find the cause. This fatigue was then followed by overwhelming pain and was subsequently diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.

Paul explores how his dual diagnosis impacts his day to day life and outlook on life. From relationships to planning events, Paul's entire world revolves on how much energy he can or can not exert. The mental health impact of these symptoms is then explored; from depression to isolation. Towards the end, Paul explores how he has learned to find meaning in the small things.

Check it out!

In this episode of Mental Podcast, Michelle and Seth banter and then launch into mental minutes. Michelle will be driving across the country soon and is of course, deep into body building prep. Seth provides updates on his hunt for a trauma therapist as well as a recent neurology appointment.

*Michelle and Seth provide a brief overview of the interview and provide a disclaimer regarding the subject of Assisted Dying and Suicide. While the guest you're about to hear is focused on living life to the fullest now, he experiences a terminal physical illness which will slowly decrease his quality of life so suicide may be a way to end his suffering in the last days.

Dave Warnock was diagnosed with a terminal chronic physical illness called ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). He was given the diagnosis and told he has 3-5 years left to live in February of 2019. Subsequently, he began a campaign called "Dying Out Loud" and had been traveling the world. Dave is actively trying to make the most of the time he has left rather than be consumed with grief. Seth and Dave discuss the toll and impact of ALS is having on his body, emotions and mental health.

Dave is focusing on "living life to the fullest" rather than spending it simply "trying to stay alive." Dave has previously been on a podcast tour and traveled the world (prior to the pandemic) spreading his message of strength and hope even in the face of dire circumstances.. 

Dave's website:  https://daveoutloud.com/ 

Dave on Twitter: @dwwarnock

This is followed by an interview Seth has with Christina Koffkey. Christina is a mother who experiences Fibromyalgia and Endometriosis. Christina shares her journey in trying to find the help. In this process, Christina discusses the very real impact chronic pain can have on one's mental health; sharing her own story of going to the hospital with suicidal ideation at one point along this journey. Christina offers a message of hope in the midst of very real pain and suffering. She emphasizes the importance of not giving up and to continue fighting while seeking support from both one's support system and healthcare professionals. This is an inspiring story that you won't want to miss!

After Mental Minutes, Michelle and Seth introduce the three separate clips of an interview Seth had with Donna Sanders. Donna shares that she suffers from myalgic encephalomyelitis; most commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome. Several key things are discussed throughout the conversation which include struggling with something when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel, difficulty in receiving treatment, struggles in being recognized as actually having an issue, feelings of being invalidated and not treated the same as others who struggle with other physical illnesses. Michelle and Seth process each clip and even relate it to Seth's recent experience with epilepsy.

To learn more about Mental Podcast, check out mental-podcast.com. On that site, you can listen to the podcast or find links to different platforms as well as links to Mental's Facebook community. Mental has an active page and group as well as an Instagram account. To provide thoughts and suggestions, text/call Mental at 314-690-5005.

Seth shares how things have been going over the last few weeks. Notably, things have work have heated up and he experienced a grand mal (tonic-clonic seizure) in Denver, Colorado at a suicide intervention train the trainer event. There is a discussion around the physical and emotional impact of such a traumatic experience.

Keeping in line with Seth's experience, Michelle and Seth will be focusing on psychological trauma caused by chronic physical illnesses for the month of June.

*If you have experienced a chronic physical illness and would be willing to share parts of your story, please reach out to our hotline at 314-690-5005 (text/call).

You can learn more about Mental Podcast at mental-podcast.com.

Michelle and Seth skip Mental Minutes entirely in order to sit down with psychotherapist and author Mark Karris. Mark is the author of notable books such as "Religious Refugees" and "Season of Heartbreak."

In addition to writing, Mark is a psychotherapist, with a focus on religious trauma and couples counseling. In this episode, Mark walks us through the process he would walk someone through in recovering from religious trauma. This path of recovery from religious trauma includes the following stages: 1. Safety and Stability, 2. Remembrance and Mourning and 3. Reconnection with the Self and Integration. You can learn more about Mark and his work at: https://markgregorykarris.com.

Parts of this interview were shared in Episode 56. However, since there is so much discussed that may be helpful to others, this is being released as its own interview.

Michelle and Seth spend the first 20 minutes catching up on their Mental Minutes. Michelle is beginning prep for another body building competition and Seth was recently in Denver, Colorado for a suicide intervention train the trainer event. This episode was recorded before the event so there will be much, much more that is shared next week.

At about 20 minutes into the episode, Matthew's conversation with Michelle and Seth is released. Matthew is married, has kids, and has no plans of stepping out on his marriage. However, he had decided to own his sexuality and identify himself as bi-sexual. Listen in to learn how well this played out. I'll give you a hint: it did not go as well as he had planned.

This episode is a continuation of May's focus on Religious Trauma Syndrome which is part of the Trauma Trials Series. Learn more at mental-podcast.com.

In their mental minutes, Michelle admits to being "sassy." Michelle accuses Seth of being annoying and Seth accuses Michelle of yelling at him. All in good fun. Michelle acknowledges that depression has been lurking and describes a feeling of impending doom. Seth details a weekend at home where he was able to visit family. The plan was to engage in the True False Film Festival but plans changed.

For this week's subject matter, Michelle and Seth discuss spiritually abusive messages. Seth begins the discussion by clarifying the distinction between bashing religion versus addressing traumatic experiences caused by religious institutions and culture. Not all churches are abusive nor Christians bad people. Don't get it twisted. However, there are abusive situations centered around religious (including Christianity) and people do get hurt. That is what we are speaking about.

To address the topic of abusive situations, Michelle and Seth review spiritually abusive messages that are a common pattern of commentary that over time lead to trauma. A sample of abusive statements covered include: "Don't question the anointed," "Don't question," and “Don’t trust yourself or your instincts. Trust me—I’m the spiritual, smart one.” Many others are reviewed.

For this week's lived experience, Michelle and Seth sit down with prolific author and podcaster, Matthew Distefano. Matthew's books can be found at allsetfree.com. Such books include but are not limited to Heretic!, From the Blood of Abel, and the Bonfire Sessions. Matthew is also one of the hosts of the Heretic Happy Hour Podcast.

To illustrate the power of abusive messages, Matthew shares how his wife's family has responded to coming out as bisexual. Matthew is married, is remaining married and is not polyamorous. Nothing is changing in the bedroom. He is simply standing up and taking pride in his true identity (which is wife is on board with). However, the response of his wife's family has caused grief. In fact, he's been accused of having affairs and his wife's family have cut ties; essentially ex-communicating them. His wife's family's actions are likely rooted in religious messaging that are so strong they're willing to remove their daughter and granddaughter and son in law due to fear and lack of understanding. Religion can certainly complicate things.

For more information about Mental Podcast, check out the website at: mental-podcast.com

During their Mental Minutes, Seth reports being self-conscious; explaining how the pressures of a big project have been stressful. Michelle reports feeling rushed after quality time with her children. Her daughter is pregnant with triplets!

At around 17 minutes, they begin the discussion on this episode's topic: The Sequence of Religious Abuse.The sequence of religious abuse consists of 3 steps: Step #1: Control by claim of infallibility and perfection, Step #2: Mind Control or Groupthink and Step #3: Threat of Punishment. Michelle and Seth go through each of the steps and explore look how these play out in-depth.

At around 56 minutes, the team answers questions that were asked live during the discussion. The questions result in discussions involving: church attendance (why neither Michelle or Seth are frequent attendees), differences between religious leaders and cult leaders, and discovering a new cultural identity post leaving church.

Michelle and Seth then listen in to Ben DeLong's story. Having grown up as a pastor's kid, Ben had a unique experience. He shares how he understood the potential consequences on his family from simple childhood experiences due to Church judgment. Further, he shares a disturbing story from church camp. Lastly, he explains some of the expectations that were placed upon him due to who his father is.

For more information about the show: mental-podcast.com

Text/Call and Leave a Voicemail on the Mental Hotline: 314-690-5005

Then the discussion around Religious Trauma Syndrome begins. This is a very large topic; so large that it could in fact be its show. Dr. Marlene Winell, a leading research coined "Religious Trauma Syndrome" and defined it as: the condition experienced by people who are struggling with leaving an authoritarian, dogmatic religion and coping with the damage of indoctrination." Whether you are currently involved in a faith or not, RTS refers to the psychological damage that is the result of religious experiences, messages, doctrines and teachings.

Michelle and Seth review frequently experienced symptoms of people suffering with RTS and then spend time reviewing examples of the different aspects of religious/spiritual abuse. For example, "it's possible that you've experienced religious/spiritual abuse if: You have left a religious institution and as a result have lost relationships and/or been punished in some way."

This week's lived experience story is brought to you by Karl and Laura Forehand. Karl was Seth's pastor for a year or so while he was in high school. Karl started deconstructing and shares what this process has been like over the years. Laura shares how her children were impacted and how her personal relationships changed as a result.'

Information in this series is being drawn from the following books:

Traumatized by Religious Abuse by Connie Baker

Sacred Wounds by Teresa Pasquale

Leaving the Fold by Marlene Winell

Coming Up Next: For the month of May, Michelle and Seth will be highlighting Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS). Next week will likely involve the cycle of trauma.

Anne is a former Children's Division Investigator; she worked for the state for 15 years. 13 of the 15 years was focused specifically on child abuse and neglect investigations. She worked in the Out of Home Investigation Unit where they investigated incidents of abuse/neglect that occurred outside of the home such as: schools, daycares, foster homes, residential facilities, juvenile detention, and even juvenile psych hospitals.

Anne shares incidents that she encountered working for Children's Division which shines a light on what is happening to kids everyday in this country. Since her years at Children's Division, Anne has shifted her focus to mental health. She currently works as a Mobile Outreach Crisis Counselor which is where she met Seth.

Coming Up Next: For the month of May, Michelle and Seth will be highlighting Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS).

The subject matter: why does child abuse occur? Last week, Michelle and Seth spent a lot of time laying down a foundation on what the definition and functional aspects of a family. This week, they center the conversation on two specific types of abuse: sexual abuse and emotional/verbal abuse.

To illustrate the points being discussed, portions of a lived experience story are shared throughout the episode. The lived experience featured in this episode is from Samson Latchison.

The subject matter: why does child abuse occur? There was a lot of information covered in this episode. Time was spent defining family; including subsystems, boundaries, roles, communication, attachment and rituals. After breaking down the varying functions of the family, the ways in which families fail was explored: failure to complete basic tasks, failure in dealing with changes associated with developmental tasks, failure to deal with crises and failure to deal with societal pressures.

Having laid a strong foundation, Michelle and Seth then review the definitions of Neglect and Physical Abuse from last week and then discuss some of the potential causes or situations that increase the likelihood of neglect/abuse.

Next Week: Michelle and Seth will continue onto Part #2 to discuss Sexual Abuse and Emotional/Verbal Abuse and expound on the reasons why these abusive situations occur.

To get involved, check out:

***Website: www.mental-podcast.com

***Call or Text Hotline: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Michelle and Seth recently interviewed a Child Abuse survivor: Frank Garcia and segments/clips from Frank's interview was then organized and are discussed on show. Frank shares stories of what it was like growing up and how his father's abuse impacted him growing up.

To get involved, check out:

***Website: www.mental-podcast.com

***Call or Text Hotline: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Michelle and Seth begin something that has never been done on the show before. Michelle and Seth have interviewed two individuals, Tonya Winingar and Paul Sanghera. Segments/clips from these interviews were then organized and are discussed on show. This conversation begins around the 18:00 minute mark.

Tonya unpacks what it was like growing up with an abusive father who also happened to be an alcoholic. She explores what it was like being with her mom as she escaped that abusive situation only to find herself spread too thin. Tonya grew up fast and found herself caring for the house and her siblings by age 12 because her mother had to work.

Paul, from Calvary, Alberta, Canada explains that his mother was brought to Canada from India for an arranged marriage. Paul shares how his mother was forced to do things that were against her will including sexual assault of which Paul and his siblings were forced to watch. Further, Paul recounts multiple incidents of physical and verbal abuse by his alcoholic father. Paul reveals what impact this abuse has had on his life. While not in this episode, Paul goes on to become a mindset coach and seeks to help those work through their own trauma.

Next week: New topic- Child Abuse

National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-3224 (SAFE)

The hotline provides essential tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence so they can live their lives free of abuse. If you are in a situation where you need help or feel unsafe, give them a call. NCADV.org is full of articles and available help if you are in a domestic violence situation.

To get involved, check out:

***Website: www.mental-podcast.com

***Call or Text Hotline: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Then, Michelle and Seth begin a discussion on this episode's subject matter: domestic violence across the lifespan. The team spends time discussing the impact of domestic violence on children, teenagers, college students, and older adults. Statistics and data was found at ncadv.org (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence).

National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-3224 (SAFE)

The hotline provides essential tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence so they can live their lives free of abuse. If you are in a situation where you need help or feel unsafe, give them a call. NCADV.org is full of articles and available help if you are in a domestic violence situation.

To get involved, check out:

***Website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Call or Text Hotline: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Next week: An examination of various populations and the rates and types of violence occurring in various segments across society.

For the month of March, Michelle and Seth will be discussing trauma related to domestic violence. In this first episode, they review recent statistics that speak to the prevalence of domestic violence in the United States. They also briefly unpack the different types of domestic violence and what's at the center of it all: power and control.

24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, the National Domestic Violence Hotline provides essential tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence so they can live their lives free of abuse. If you are in a situation where you need help or feel unsafe, give them a call at: 1-800-799-3224 (SAFE). The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence's website: NCADV.org is full of articles and available help if you are in a domestic violence situation.

To get involved, check out:

***Website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Call or Text Hotline: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

#trauma #mental #domesticviolence #violence #safety

From there, Michelle and Seth jump into a discussion regarding different treatment modalities frequently used for addressing and working through trauma. Therapies discussed include: Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Freedom/Tapping, and Expressive Art Therapies (such as Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Dance Therapy and even Equestrian Therapy). The therapies discussed are only a handful of the many therapeutic theories/techniques used to address trauma. Therefore, this is only an overview.

To get involved, check out:

***Website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Social media links are on as website.

***Call or Text Hotline: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

***Merch: New website and merch coming soon!

#trauma #mentalhealth #therapy #intreatment

This week's mental minutes consist of Michelle coming to terms with living in an area that receives ice and snow; something she isn't entirely familiar with after having lived in California for over 30 years. Seth reveals some big changes in his life and expounds on the reasons why. There is a couple minutes of friendly banter regarding politics.

From there, Michelle and Seth explore the physical ramifications of trauma. This is an important subject as so many deal with physical issues that may have their roots in traumatic events.

*Resource: Much of today's conversation was pulled from "Trauma: Healing Your Past to Find Freedom Now" by Pedram Shojai, O.M.D. and Nick Polizzi. The podcast recommends this book as a starting place to begin the journey of working through your personal trauma.

If you get involved with Mental, check out:

***NEW website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Hotline: Call or text: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

***Merch: New website and merch coming soon!

For the month of February, Michelle and Seth are reviewing an overview of the Trauma from a psychological and physiology perspective.

*NOTE: I will just make note that at times the conversation may veer off but it quickly regained focus. The hosts had some people join the Facebook Live to essentially mock and make fun of the topic at hand. Much of that situation, which was handled on live, was edited out. Even with that situation occurring, a LOT of ground was covered to lay the groundwork of where these series and episodes will likely lead.

After providing a fairly open overview of trauma last week, we center on the physiologically of the brain this week. Understand, Michelle and I are not "currently" doctors. Michelle is working on a PsyD and I have two master's but not a doctorate. Please keep this in mind as listen.

We spend about the first 20 minutes of the show checking in regarding our mental minutes and then jump into reviewing the past episode and goals of the many series coming up. From there, we then dive head first into physiology of the brain; exploring two primary parts: Lizard Brain vs. Wizard Brain. It's a fascinating discussion regarding what's happening in your mind when and if you encounter or have been experiencing trauma.

*Resources: Much of today's conversation was pulled from multiple sources. In fact, Seth sometimes read directly from a couple.

"Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body In the Healing of Trauma" - Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.

"Transformative Care: A Trauma-Focused Approach to Caregiving"- Rhote, Aubrey, Gentry

Video: Intruction to Trauma Informed Care- Dr. Robert Rhoton

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3eJLUNVZHk

"Trauma Treatment Tookbox: 165 Brain-Changing Tips, Tools and Handouts to Move Therapy Forward" -Jennifer Sweetin

There are ways of engaging our community as well as providing feedback and suggestions to the hosts!

If you get involved with Mental, check out:

***NEW website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Hotline: Call or text: 314-690-5005

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

***Merch: New website and merch coming soon!

For the month of February, Michelle and Seth kick off a new series entitled "Trauma Trials." The goal in this series is to discuss and examine what trauma is and provide information regarding its impact on everyday people (i.e. provide an overview). In this first episode, "What is Trauma?", Michelle and Seth barely scratch the surface but before they dive into the subject matter, they share two in-depth 'mental minutes.' Michelle has been very, very ill and Seth has been overcome with grief as of late. After sharing, they begin a discussion around trauma. Specifically- they explore some of body science that goes alongside trauma, emotional responses and a review of fight/flight/freeze. As the podcast moves through this series, we strive to provide information without judgment. We're going to get deeper into this so if you're going to be listening to the show, know that it might get bumpy but hang with us.

The plan is that this series will provide a general overview of trauma. After establishing a foundation of what trauma is and looks like, the plan is to spend much of 2021 exploring specific topics related to trauma. Examples could include domestic violence, religious trauma, and even divorce.

Much of information discussed and shared on the podcast is taken from "Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body In the Healing of Trauma" - Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.

To get involved with Mental, check out:

***NEW website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Hotline: Call or text: 314-690-5005

***Merch: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

At the end of this episode, PK shares some big news with the team. As of 2/1/21, PK Langley is stepping down as a standing co-host of Mental in order to focus on her other priorities (hence the new logo of just Michelle and Seth). PK is now running her own show called Ask PK as well as focusing her energies on her counseling practicum. It grieves Michelle and Seth to see her leave the show but wish her the best in all that she does. While she wasn't a permanent co-host, she left an imprint and for that, we are thankful. We wish you the best on your future endeavors. To learn more about PK's endeavors, check out: Ask-PK.com. To get involved in her community, look up her facebook page at facebook.com/askpkshow or request to join our private facebook community at facebook.com/groups/askpklangley.

To get involved with Mental, check out:

***NEW website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Hotline: Call or text: 314-690-5005

***Merch: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?:

https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

***NEW website: https://www.mental-podcast.com

***Hotline: Call or text: 314-690-5005

***Merch: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

***Interested in bonus content + direct access?: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text: 314-690-5005

If you're lucky, we may even feature you in the next episode! if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text: 314-690-5005 and let us know about your New Year Resolutions or... why you don't have one. If you're lucky, we may even feature you in the next episode! if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

For the first episode of 2021, Michelle, PK and Seth reflect on the past year in their mental minutes. Michelle reflects on a chilly Christmas morning, PK shares the release of her new podcast "Ask PK" and Seth gets vulnerable and processes some of the difficulty he has experienced around family during this time of year. Interweaved throughout everyone's story is a strong yet important word: change. PK provides some valuable information on the stages of change and an assessment you can download for free to assess where you fall regarding certain topics such substance use, tobacco cessation and psychotherapy. 

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text: 314-690-5005 and let us know about your New Year Resolutions or... why you don't have one. If you're lucky, we may even feature you in the next episode! if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

**EXTRA: 

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text: 314-690-5005 and let us know about your New Year Resolutions or... why you don't have one. If you're lucky, we may even feature you in the next episode! if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text, 314-690-5005 and let us know your own success story! We will feature your comment on the next episode. Also, if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text, 314-690-5005 and let us know your own success story! We will feature your comment on the next episode. Also, if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

To begin our first episode of the "Fond Farewell to 2020" Series, Michelle Collins, PK Langley, and Seth Showalter sit down to discuss Success Stories; shining a light on the positive impact we can have on others. 

Mental now has a hotline! Call or text, 314-690-5005 and let us know your own success story! We will feature your comment on the next episode. Also, if you have questions regarding mental health concerns, suggestions for future topics or want feedback on a issue in your life, we would love to hear from you!

• Mental is a proud partner and contributor to the FTG Network.
• Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork
• Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Mental is a proud partner and contributor to the FTG Network. 

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Episodes available on “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network.”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Suicide is an epideamic in our society that doesn't discriminate. PK and Seth explore this phenomenon in our society including who is most at risk as well as potential warning signs. Together, they explore ways supporting someone who is having suicidal ideation as well as things to keep in mind. This is an important conversation. 

The National Suicide Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Help is one phone call away: 800-273-8255 (TALK).

While this is a serious episode, Michelle kicks things off with a giggle fit. In fact, multiple takes were required to get this off the ground. This material has been released to our patrons.

After catching up on their lives over the last week, Michelle, Seth and PK discuss of overview of Major Depressive Disorder.  Using DSM V criteria used to diagnose, they discuss how each component of criteria plays out in real life. This is a valuable conversation full of clinical insights and personal examples. 

This episode was originally aired on Facebook Live. 

If there are specific things that you would like to hear or learn more about during this series- let us know!

Episodes available on “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network.”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17366

4290555175/

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app!

If there are specific things that you would like to hear or learn more about during this series- let us know!

Episodes available on “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network.”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/173664290555175/

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app!

If there are specific things that you would like to hear or learn more about during this series- let us know!

Episodes available on “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network.”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/173664290555175/

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app!

Also- if there are specific things that you would like to hear or learn more about during this series- let us know on Facebook!

Episodes available on “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network.”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork.

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast.

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app! 

In this first episode, Michelle and Seth tackle issues of self-esteem and self-confidence. They kick things off by a quick review of body dysmorphia and it's relationship to such issues. From there, they jump into a mental minute and then dive headfirst into personal experiences with self-esteem and self-confidence. From lived experience, Michelle and Seth explore the impacts of low self-esteem and explore ways of increasing it. 

Episodes available on “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork.

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast.

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app! 

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork.

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast.

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app! 

The episode kicks off with a mental minute. Seth shares a funny story from being on the golf course with his father this past weekend. Michelle shares her successful move and updates on her fitness goals as she gets closer to a bodybuilding competition. There’s a funny moment in there where the topic of dick pics comes up and you know Seth had something to share.

After processing, Michelle and Seth begin the next topic of conversation which is… deconstructing relationships. This is perhaps the hardest part of any deconstruction process as it often reveals who our friends really are. There’s a discussion on Seth’s experience coming out as gay and how this impacted his relationships. Seth shares personal stories from college when he was in the process of coming out amid Christians.  Michelle explores how her relationships were impacted and changed as she began to question her religious beliefs. “What’s going to be the question that’s just too far?” 

Episodes available on: “Mental Podcast” and “Fade to Gray Network”

Merch can be purchased at: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork.

Interested in bonus content + direct access? Check out patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast.

Leave us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast app! 

If you're interested in the show and specifically, the lives of either Michelle or Seth, please check out our Patreon. We have chosen to make a diligent effort to begin providing bonus content. In fact, Michelle's story of being kicked out of the church was removed from this episode and is being released to patrons only. Check this link to find out more if you don't want to miss out: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Other ways to get involved:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mental.ftg/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/173664290555175/

Mental Podcast can be found by searching Mental Podcast or the Fade to Gray Network. If you have enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 star review for us on your favorite podcast app!

Ways to get involved:

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mental.ftg/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/173664290555175/

StoreFrontier: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Marco Polo: https://onmarcopolo.com/groups/ODPtQsfALlpr/mental-podcast

Mental Podcast is part of the Fade to Gray Network and episodes can be found there as well. If you have enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 start review on your favorite podcast app! 

Michelle and Seth review a mental minute and then jump feet first into a vulnerable conversation on the Wall. In order to talk about the Wall, both Michelle and Seth have to get honest and real about the things holding them back. Surprisingly, it's the exact same things. Listen in to find out more. 

Ways to get involved:

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mentalpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mental.ftg/

StoreFrontier: https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

Marco Polo: https://onmarcopolo.com/groups/ODPtQsfALlpr/mental-podcast

Mental Podcast is part of the Fade to Gray Network and episodes can be found there as well.  If you have enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5 start review on your favorite podcast app! 

The next episode in the series will be focused on: The Wall. For more information about Mental Podcast, check out our Facebook page. Mental Podcast is part of the Fade to Gray Network and episodes can be found there as well.

EXCITING NEWS: We now have merch! https://www.storefrontier.com/ftgnetwork

In this episode, Michelle and Seth start things off with a Mental Minute. Then they look at the first 2 stages of power: powerlessness and association. They unpack what life looks like at each of these stages including work, relationships, and religion. 

For this first episode, Michelle and Seth evaluate and discuss the differing definitions of power, looking at the 6 stages that people experience and their psychological impact.

This podcast can be found on Mental Podcast as well as the Fade to Gray Network. To learn more about the podcast and engage with the community, check us out on Facebook and Marco Polo.

Apple Links: 

Mental: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mental/id1502899441#episodeGuid=MentalPodcast.podbean.com%2Fa04db65c-01b9-3036-8946-774e495caf5c

Fade to Gray Network:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fade-to-gray-network/id1518413107#episodeGuid=b233e37c-38f5-44ff-82b0-5b3bba0f4e9f

Seth owns up to feeling conformable with his Imposter and complained about not having the energy to fight back due to feeling emotionally exhausted. This opened the door to a discussion on what "recovery" looks like. Michelle and Seth spend time looking at practical and realistic strategies at battling our internal critic and the Imposter Syndrome in our lives. Remember: Imposter Syndrome does not follow a straight line. Not a comprehensive summary but some of the primary strategies reviewed included: self-affirmations, gratitude and thankfulness.

This podcast can be found on the Fade to Gray Network as well as Mental podcast feed. It is a production of the Fade to Gray Network and cohosted by Michelle Colins and Seth Showalter. If you would like more information about Mental, please check out Mental or the Fade to Gray Network on either Facebook or Instagram. If you liked this episode, please leave us a star rating and review. It all helps!

The third episode in the Imposter Syndrome Series is entitled "Taming Your Syndrome" and is available now. Listen in as Michelle and Seth discuss their internal critic. Put simply, the internal critic is a well-integrated pattern of destructive thoughts toward ourselves and others. It often presents as a negative and nagging voice. Michelle and Seth unpack how this plays out in their own lives and then explore strategies to combat it.

This podcast can be found on the Fade to Gray Network as well as Mental podcast feed. It is a production of the Fade to Gray Network and cohosted by Michelle Colins and Seth Showalter. If you would like more information about Mental, please check out Mental or the Fade to Gray Network on either Facebook or Instagram. If you liked this episode, please leave us a star rating and review. It all helps!

The second episode to the Imposter Syndrome Series is entitled "The P(sychology) of Imposter Syndrome" and is available now. Listen in to learn about the 4 P's of Imposter Syndrome (Perfectionism, Procrastination, Paralysis, and People-Pleasing).

In preparing for this episode, Michelle and Seth both realized that in order to discuss these concepts, vulnerability would be required. Therefore, they both share how these the 4 P's have played out in their own lives. This entire series may as well be an extended Mental Minute. The hope is that you will be able to relate to the different ways Imposter Syndrome often plays out.

This podcast can be found on the Fade to Gray Network as well as Mental podcast feed. It is a production of the Fade to Gray Network and cohosted by Michelle Colins and Seth Showalter. If you would like more information about Mental, please check out Mental or the Fade to Gray Network on either Facebook or Instagram. If you liked this episode, please leave us a star rating and review. It all helps!

Michelle Collins and Seth Showalter introduce a new series for the month of July called "Imposter Syndrome." At its most fundamental level, Imposter Syndrome is the persistent inability to believe that one's success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one's own efforts or skills."

To kick off this series, both Michelle and Seth engage in an extended Mental Minute to unpack how the Imposter Syndrome has personally impacted their lives.

This podcast can be found on the Fade to Gray Network as well as Mental podcast feed. It is a production of the Fade to Gray Network and cohosted by Michelle Colins and Seth Showalter. If you would like more information about Mental, please check out Mental or the Fade to Gray Network on either Facebook or Instagram. If you liked this episode, please leave us a star rating and review. It all helps!

Michelle Collins hosts a podcast, in addition to Mental, called "Book Ish: The Canon Continues." In this podcast, Michelle aims to dismantle the sacred/secular divide, book by book. It's a podcast where Michelle reviews books that have made a substantial impact on people's lives. Check it out:

Book Ish: The Canon Continues

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/book-ish-the-canon-continues/id1454848326

It's been a bit since you've received any material from me. And... like most things, there is a very specific reason. With everything going on in the world, I decided to take a step back and evaluate. And now...

It is with much excitement that I announce the new cohost of Mental: Michelle Collins. Michelle is an accountant, a soon to be published author and is currently working on a doctorate of psychology. She also hosts her own podcast Book Ish: The Canon Continues. Michelle will bring a lot of knowledge and lived experience to the show. 

Also... Mental was conceived out of this experiment called the Fade to Gray Podcast. You've seen Mental logos with the expression "Fade to Gray Network" without any real explanation as to what that meant. Well... it's now official: the Fade to Gray Network is a collection of podcasters and content creators that work together to provide you with nuanced and interesting conversations on a variety of topics.

Check out Book Ish: The Canon Continues: 

https://bookishcc.podbean.com

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/book-ish-the-canon-continues/id1454848326

Check out the Fade to Gray Network: 

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fade-to-gray-network/id1518413107?fbclid=IwAR2DUbExjJNRnkNoETtGYka3fFfptTheuF32EDsg7qdlXY7Re4-p1yfxfjY

If you want to learn more about Mental, please check out Mental's Facebook Page and fadetograypodcast.com.

To access to Mental community:

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/173664290555175

Marco Polo group: https://onmarcopolo.com/groups/ODPtQsfALlpr/mental-podcast.

Thank you for listening to this episode. 

The guests on this episode are Liz Breier and Robb Wolf. Liz Breier is a Senior Training and Implementation Specialist for a Mental Health Coalition. She holds a master's degree in Health Advocacy and is a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner. Robb Wolf recently graduated from North Central University as a Marriage and Family Therapist. He spent the last 14 months completing in-home counseling for a variety of issues including trauma. He completed over 500 hours of counseling and 100 hours of supervision.

Together, they unpack mental health trauma; including what it is and how it impacts us. Further, trauma informed care practices are reviewed with a focus on things that help people who have experienced trauma or know friends and family who have. This is not an episode you want to miss! 

Seth has dropped all Patreon requirements. Access to the Mental Marco Polo and Facebook communities are now free. Reach out to Seth on Facebook or at mental.ftg@gmail.com to get added.

In light of Covid-19, Seth is now no longer charging access to the Mental community. Reach out to Seth at mental.ftg@gmail.com and he will get you plugged into the Facebook and Marco Polo communities. Stay safe out there. While we may have to social distance and self-isolate, this does not mean we can't use technology to reach out for support. Don't suffer alone. Reach out. 

Until next time. 

You can find Amanda's podcast on Spotify. 

https://open.spotify.com/show/5RqpgYQgVIiAwcNYeFY49m?si=EvyHjCqwRtuUHtBTeHf81g

If you have a story you’d like to share or a topic you would like covered, please reach out to Seth. You can reach him at mental.ftg@gmail.com or on Facebook.  To join the community, you can find Mental on Patreon at mentalwithseth. Membership in the community comes with perks such as Facebook community, Marco Polo Chat Thread, free merchandise, and in the future, bonus content!