Afleveringen

  • In this episode, we’re talking about anger — the emotion everyone has, nobody wants to admit to, and most of us manage about as well as a toddler with a fork near an electrical outlet. Anger isn’t the villain it’s made out to be. In fact, it’s one of the most honest, protective, and informative emotions we have… when we’re not ignoring it, exploding with it, or using it to win imaginary arguments in the shower.

    We break down what anger actually is (spoiler: it’s not “bad”), why it shows up the way it does, and how to work with it instead of letting it hijack your day, your relationships, or your blood pressure. We’ll talk about the difference between healthy anger and “I haven’t eaten in six hours and everything is terrible” anger, why stuffing it down never works, and how to express it without burning your life to the ground.

    Expect humor, real talk, and practical tools you can use immediately — whether you’re a chronic peacekeeper, a slow simmerer, or someone who goes from zero to “I swear to God” in 0.4 seconds. By the end, you’ll understand how to listen to your anger, respond to it with intention, and use it as a guide instead of a grenade.

    Listeners of the podcast get 10% off with this link from Find The Good!! A Partner of the podcast who donate proceeds to a mental health organization.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we sit down with Andrew McLean, former police officer and author of Beaten Black and Blue, to talk about the side of first‑responder life that rarely makes the news — the trauma, the pressure, the impossible situations, and the emotional toll that doesn’t magically disappear when the shift ends. Andrew opens up about his journey with PTSD, the moments that broke him open, and the long, messy, courageous process of putting himself back together.

    We talk about what it’s really like to carry the weight of a job where you’re expected to be calm, brave, and unshakeable while witnessing the worst moments of people’s lives. Andrew shares how PTSD crept in, how he tried to outrun it (spoiler: it runs faster), and what finally helped him start healing. He also dives into why he wrote Beaten Black and Blue, what he hopes first responders and civilians take from it, and how vulnerability became one of the strongest tools in his recovery.

    Expect honesty, heart, and a few moments of humor — because sometimes you have to laugh so you don’t cry — as we explore the human behind the badge, the reality of trauma in first‑responder culture, and the hope that comes from finally telling the truth about what you’ve been carrying.

    Beaten Black and Blue

    Andrew McLean IG

    Find The Good

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?

    Klik hier om de feed te vernieuwen.

  • Schizophrenia is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions on the planet — thanks to decades of stigma, horror‑movie tropes, and people using the word “schizo” like it’s an insult instead of a diagnosis. In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise and talking about what schizophrenia actually is, what it absolutely is not, and why the people who live with it deserve far more compassion and far less fear.

    We explore the symptoms, the science, and the lived experience behind the diagnosis, breaking down hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking in human language instead of clinical robot‑speak. We also talk about how schizophrenia is misunderstood, mistreated, and misrepresented — and how modern treatment, early intervention, and community support have completely changed the landscape.

    Expect clarity, empathy, and a few moments of humor as we dismantle stereotypes, highlight real stories, and remind listeners that schizophrenia is not a character flaw or a life sentence. It’s a medical condition — one that people can and do live meaningful, connected, fulfilling lives with when they get the right support.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we sit down with Amy Lenius, Director of Group Coaching at Next Level University — aka the woman who helps people rebuild their identity, self‑worth, and habits without requiring them to wake up at 4am, drink celery juice, or become a productivity robot.

    Amy talks about what it actually takes to grow into the person you want to be — the messy parts, the hilarious parts, the “oh wow, I’ve been avoiding that for 10 years” parts. She shares her own journey of tearing her life down to the studs and rebuilding it with intention, compassion, and the kind of self‑awareness that makes you say, “Okay fine, maybe it was me.”

    We dive into why fulfillment feels so elusive, why slowing down is sometimes the most rebellious thing you can do, and how to stop outsourcing your self‑worth to other people, your job, or the number of steps your watch says you took today.

    Expect laughter, real talk, and a whole lot of “same, girl” moments as Amy breaks down what it means to build success from the inside out — no toxic positivity, no hustle‑culture nonsense, just honest growth with a side of humor.

    Amy Lenius: IG

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Bipolar Disorder is one of the most misunderstood diagnoses in mental health — thanks to decades of stigma, Hollywood dramatics, and people casually using the word “bipolar” to describe their ex, their boss, or their dog. In this episode, we’re setting the record straight.

    We break down what Bipolar Disorder actually is, the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II, what mood episodes look like, and why it’s so much more than “being moody.” We explore the stereotypes that still follow people with bipolar, and the real‑world impact of living with a condition that affects energy, sleep, motivation, and emotional regulation.

    Then we dive into modern treatment — medication, therapy, lifestyle supports, and why early intervention can change everything. Expect clarity, compassion, and a few laughs as we unpack the science, challenge the stigma, and remind listeners that Bipolar Disorder is not a character flaw — it’s a treatable condition, and people living with it deserve understanding, respect, and hope.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we sit down with Dave Mowry — author of OMG That’s Me!, peer support specialist, mental‑health advocate, and the man who somehow turned bipolar disorder into a stand‑up comedy curriculum. Dave shares his personal journey with bipolar: the early struggles, the missteps, the moments of clarity, and the surprising ways humor became not just a coping skill, but a lifeline.

    We talk about how comedy helps people reclaim their stories, why laughing at the hard stuff can be a radical act of healing, and how Dave now teaches others to transform their pain into punchlines. He also talks about his next book, Healing with Humor, and the philosophy behind using creativity and connection as tools for recovery.

    Expect honesty, hope, and a whole lot of laughter as we explore what it means to live with bipolar disorder, support others through it, and find joy in places you never expected. Dave’s story is a reminder that healing isn’t always pretty — sometimes it’s messy, brave, and unexpectedly hilarious.

    Dave’s email

    Dave Linked In

    Healing with Humor

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Borderline Personality Disorder has one of the worst reputations in the mental‑health world — and most of that reputation is built on outdated theories, bad training, and a whole lot of stigma masquerading as “clinical wisdom.” In this episode, we’re breaking down what BPD actually is, what it absolutely is not, and how the diagnosis has evolved from a misunderstood label to a treatable, hopeful path toward healing.

    We’ll explore the messy history of the diagnosis (spoiler: it was not psychiatry’s finest hour), the stereotypes that still haunt people with BPD, and why so many individuals get misdiagnosed or dismissed before they ever get real help. Then we dive into the good stuff: what treatment actually works. People with BPD are often some of the most resilient, emotionally intelligent, and deeply connected humans you’ll ever meet once they get the right support.

    Expect clarity, compassion, and a few laughs as we dismantle the myths, talk about the science, and remind everyone that BPD is not a life sentence — it’s a condition with real, effective treatments and a whole lot of hope.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we sit down with Len May, CEO and co‑founder of EndoDNA, to explore a question most of us have asked at least once: Why didn’t anyone give me a manual for this body and brain? Turns out… your DNA kind of did.

    Len breaks down how genetic insights can help you understand your unique biological tendencies — from anxiety and sleep issues and other physical health issues to how your body responds to stress, supplements, and even certain wellness practices. We talk about how personalized genetic information can help people make informed choices before their mental and physical health hits crisis mode, and why prevention is the future of care.

    Expect a conversation that blends science with real‑world practicality, sprinkled with humor, empowerment, and a few “ohhh, that explains this” moments. Whether you’re curious about genetics, passionate about mental and/or physical health, or just tired of guessing what your body needs, Len’s work offers a roadmap for taking control of your well‑being in a whole new way.

    Len May IG

    Len May Coaching

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Your brain is basically a chaotic group project run by four biochemicals who did not read the instructions. In this episode, we’re diving into the “happy chemicals” — dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins — the tiny emotional interns responsible for everything from your motivation to clean your house at 2am to your sudden belief that you need to text your ex.

    We’ll break down what each chemical actually does, why they go offline at the worst possible moments, and how to hack them without needing a Peloton, a gratitude journal made of recycled moonlight, or a $14 adaptogenic mushroom latte. You’ll learn why dopamine is basically a golden retriever with a credit card, why serotonin is the exhausted mom friend of your brain, why oxytocin makes you think strangers are soulmates, and why endorphins trick you into believing exercise is “fun.”

    Expect science, sass, and several moments where you realize your brain has been running Windows 95 this whole time. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to boost your happy chemicals — and how to stop them from hijacking your life like a hormonal Ocean’s Eleven.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we’re joined by two powerhouse women who are rewriting the rules of healing and self‑growth. First up is Shawn Nelson, the coach helping women over 40 step boldly into what she calls Chapter YOU — the era where you stop living for everyone else and finally become the main character of your own damn story. Shawn talks about identity, confidence, reinvention, and why your 40s and beyond are actually prime time for leveling up.

    Then we’re joined by Tauna Young, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on a mission to bring CES (Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation) into the mainstream as a legit, accessible treatment for anxiety and insomnia. She breaks down what CES is, why it works, and how it could change the future of mental health care — all in human language, no neuroscience degree required.

    Together, we explore what it means to heal, grow, and take back your life from both the inside out and the top down (literally — brainwaves are involved). Expect inspiration, science, humor, and a whole lot of “oh wow, I needed to hear that.”

    Shawn Michelle Nelson IG

    Tauna Young Nerovana Calm

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Your nervous system is basically the backstage crew of your entire life — always working, often dramatic, and occasionally flipping the lights on and off for no reason. In this episode, we break down what nervous system regulation actually means, why your body reacts the way it does, and how to shift out of survival mode without needing a meditation retreat, a sound bath, or a personality transplant.

    We explore the science in human language: all the ways your body tries to protect you (even when it’s wildly inconvenient). Then we dive into practical, doable regulation tools that help you feel grounded, steady, and more in control of your emotional world. Expect validation, humor, and a few “ohhh, that explains everything” moments as we unpack how to work with your nervous system instead of wrestling it into submission.

    Find Alex: Dr. Alex Arthur

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we sit down with Tara Mae Temple, author of Life Hacks for Healing and Harmony, to talk about the tools, truths, and tiny shifts that helped her rebuild her life from the inside out. Tara opens up about her own mental health journey — the messy parts, the meaningful parts, and the moments that shaped her healing. We explore the practical “life hacks” she developed along the way, why harmony doesn’t mean perfection, and how small daily choices can create big emotional change.

    It’s a conversation filled with insight, compassion, and a few laughs as we unpack what it really takes to heal in a world that keeps throwing curveballs. Whether you’re looking for encouragement, new coping tools, or just a reminder that you’re not alone, Tara’s story offers both wisdom and warmth.

    Tara’s website: Tara Mae Temple

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Non‑compete and non‑solicitation agreements: the contracts that make you wonder if your employer is protecting their business… or just a little too attached. In this episode, we break down what these clauses actually mean, why they show up in everything from corporate jobs to part‑time gigs, and how to tell the difference between a reasonable boundary and a full‑blown “you belong to us forever” situation.

    We’ll translate the legal jargon into human language, unpack the mental‑health impact of feeling trapped by your job, and sprinkle in enough humor to keep you from rage‑quitting mid‑episode. Think of this as your guide to understanding what you’re signing — without needing a law degree, a magnifying glass, or a stress snack.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • In this episode, we sit down with Noah May, journalist and host of the hit podcast Lethal Venom, to talk about something even more intense than reporting: his mental health journey. Noah opens up about the emotional toll of living with a mental health and the surprising ways his work has shaped his own healing. We explore how he learned to recognize his own limits, and the tools that help him stay grounded.

    It’s an honest, thoughtful, and sometimes funny conversation about resilience, creativity, and the very real humans behind the headlines. Whether you’re a storyteller, or someone navigating your own mental health path, Noah’s insight reminds us that even the people asking the questions have their own stories to tell.

    To find Noah: Noah's Podcast

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Loneliness is having a moment — and not in a cute, introspective, “I lit a candle and journaled” kind of way. We’re talking full‑blown epidemic. In this episode, we dig into why so many people feel disconnected, even when surrounded by others, and how modern life has quietly rewired the way we relate to each other. We explore the mental and physical health impacts of chronic loneliness (spoiler: they’re no joke), the myths that keep people silent, and the small, doable steps that actually help rebuild connection.

    Expect validation, practical strategies, and a few laughs as we break down why loneliness isn’t a personal failure — it’s a human signal. And more importantly, what you can do to answer it.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Making friends as an adult shouldn’t feel like dating without the romance… and yet here we are. In this episode, we sit down with Gabor Kadas, CEO of Friending, a new app designed to help people build real, meaningful friendships in a world where loneliness is at an all‑time high. We talk about why connection feels harder than ever, what people actually need to feel supported, and how Friending is trying to make the process less awkward and more human.

    Gabor shares the story behind the app, the psychology of adult friendship, and why building community is essential for mental health. We also get into the fun stuff—like why making friends shouldn’t require Olympic‑level social skills, and how technology can help without turning everything into another swipe‑based circus.

    It’s a conversation about belonging, vulnerability, and the simple truth that everyone deserves people who feel like home.

    Website for more information: Friending – Real Friends. Real Life.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • If you’ve ever wondered whether your pet could be an ESA, a service animal, or just a very cute freeloader, this episode is for you. We break down the real differences between Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals—what they do, what they don’t do, and why the internet has made this topic way more confusing than it needs to be.

    We’ll talk about the legal distinctions, the training requirements, the rights each type of animal actually has, and the myths that refuse to die. Expect humor, clarity, and a few “oh wow, I did not know that” moments as we sort out the facts from the fluff. Because understanding the difference isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for accessibility, ethics, and making sure the animals doing life‑changing work get the respect they deserve.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • What happens when punk values meet community care? You get Punks with Lunch Lansing. Kelsea Hector sits down with us to talk about feeding folks, distributing harm‑reduction supplies, and refusing to let anyone fall through the cracks. It’s scrappy, it’s real, and it’s the kind of mutual aid work that actually saves lives. If you’ve been looking for a way to support your community—or just want to hear about badass humans doing badass things—this episode is your sign to donate, volunteer, or spread the word. Check them out here. Punks With Lunch Lansing | Get Essential Supplies

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Person‑Centered Therapy gets misunderstood more than your group chat at 2 a.m. Some people think it’s just the therapist nodding like a supportive bobblehead, but nope — it’s way deeper than that. In this episode, we break down what Person‑Centered Therapy actually is: a legit evidence‑based approach built on empathy, authenticity, and the radical idea that you’re not a broken puzzle to be solved. We explore how being genuinely seen (like, really seen) helps people tap into their own insight and make meaningful change. Expect humor, myth‑busting, and a whole lot of “ohhh, that makes sense now” moments.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com
  • Solution‑Focused Therapy is the approach for anyone who’s ever thought, “Can we please just skip to the part where things get better?” In this episode, we break down what SFT actually is—a future‑focused, strengths‑based model that helps you identify what’s already working and build on it. We also get honest about what it is not: it’s not a deep excavation of your childhood, it’s not hours of analyzing your every flaw, and it’s definitely not the place where your therapist asks, “And how does that make you feel?” every five minutes. Instead, we explore how SFT uses clear goals, small steps, and practical strategies to help people create meaningful change without getting stuck in the weeds. It’s efficient, hopeful, and surprisingly refreshing—kind of like the iced coffee of therapy models.

    Thanks for reading UnWineding Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit unwineding.substack.com