The Survivors Podcast

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse, domestic abuse & trauma and may be triggering.
 
Episode Summary
What happens when you finally escape an abusive relationship—only to find yourself facing cancer in the middle of rebuilding your life? In this episode of The Survivors, we sit down with Beany Trapani, founder of Breakthroughs With Beany, to talk about leaving a 10-year abusive relationship, breaking trauma bonds, surviving breast cancer, and learning how to trust herself and reclaim her identity again.
Beany also shares how telling her story online unexpectedly went viral, building a powerful community on Instagram and TikTok and turning her lived experience into a mission to help other women rebuild after abuse and life’s hardest transitions. It’s an honest conversation about survival, starting over, finding your voice, and discovering who you are on the other side of what tried to break you.
 
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™ 
Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.
 
Takeaways
Abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of background or strength.
Recognizing the cycle of abuse and trauma bonds is crucial for breaking free.
Social media can be a powerful tool for awareness and support.
Healing is possible through self-awareness, support, and advocacy.
Sharing your story can empower others and create change.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Beany Trapani's story
01:55 - Her background and life before abuse
07:08 - The cycle of abuse and grooming tactics
14:59 - Recognizing the early signs of an unhealthy relationship
20:07 - The escalation to violence and control
33:56 - The turning point: cancer diagnosis and escape
43:01 - The power of social media in her advocacy
55:00 - Helping other women and spreading awareness
01:04 - How to find support and take the first step
01:11 - The importance of resilience and purpose
01:13 - Closing thoughts and message of hope
 
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223) 
Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books)
The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
Beany Trapani on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@breakthroughswithbeany?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Beany Trapani on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/breakthroughswithbeany?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
YouTube Channel - Breakthroughs with Beany https://www.youtube.com/@breakthroughswithbeany
 
Follow & Connect With Us
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel
🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast
 
See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.
 

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide & trauma and may be triggering.
 
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Survivors, Lisa & Natasha sit down with influencer and mental health advocate Jessica Shaker about her mental health journey, including her experiences with anxiety, depression, and inpatient care. Jessica shares her story of reaching a breaking point, the challenges she faced in seeking help, and the stigma surrounding mental health.
The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy, support, and the need for better mental health resources. Jessica's mission is to help others feel less alone and to break the stigma associated with mental health struggles. And in this conversation, Jessica shares her personal journey through mental health challenges, highlighting the importance of effective support systems and the need for advocacy in mental health policies.
Jessica talks candidly about her experiences with various programs, the role of social media in her recovery, and the significance of community support. The conversation emphasizes the need for change in how mental health resources are navigated and the importance of reminding individuals in crisis that they are not burdens.
 
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™ 
Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.
 
Takeaways
The stigma around mental health can prevent people from seeking help.
Inpatient care can be a traumatic experience but may be necessary for survival.
The lack of support and understanding in the mental health system is concerning.
Natural light and outdoor access are crucial for mental health recovery.
It's crucial to have a seamless process for mental health support.
Many individuals in crisis feel abandoned by the systems meant to help them.
Support from loved ones can significantly impact recovery.
Social media can serve as a platform for connection and healing.
Navigating mental health resources can be overwhelming without guidance.
Advocacy for better mental health policies is essential.
The stigma surrounding mental health discussions needs to be addressed.
Finding purpose in sharing experiences can aid in personal recovery.
Community support is vital for those struggling with mental health issues.
It's important to remind those in crisis that they are not a burden.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Mental Health Journeys
03:10 - Jessica's Mental Health Crisis
05:46 - The Inpatient Experience
08:57 - First Day in Inpatient Care
11:49 - Daily Life in Inpatient Treatment
15:04 - Navigating Emotions and Therapy
17:59 - The Last Day and Release
20:58 - Post-Inpatient Challenges
26:46 - Navigating Mental Health Programs
32:14 - The Importance of Support Systems
39:32 - Finding Purpose Through Social Media
46:50 - Advocacy and the Need for Change
 
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223) 
Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books)
The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
Connect with Jessica ShakerInstagram: @jessicaglowuplivehostTikTok: @jessicaglowuplivehost
Follow & Connect With Us
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel
🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast
 
See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide and may be triggering.
 
Episode Summary
After losing her husband Sean to suicide, Reshma Kearney found herself navigating unimaginable grief while helping her children make sense of a loss that changed everything.
In this episode of The Survivors, Reshma shares Sean's story, the mental health struggles he faced, and the lasting impact his death has had on their family. She opens up about the difficult conversations she had with her children, why honesty and age-appropriate transparency mattered, and how vulnerability became an important part of their healing.
Together, we explore the unique challenges of suicide loss, the urgent need for more open conversations about men's mental health—especially within the military—and the importance of creating communities where people feel safe asking for help.
Reshma also shares how she's transforming her grief into purpose through advocacy, building supportive spaces for suicide loss survivors, and developing new resources for solo moms and children living with profound loss.
This is a conversation about heartbreak, resilience, hope, and the courage to keep moving forward—even after life changes forever.
 
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™ 
Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.
 
Takeaways
Reshma emphasizes the importance of discussing how loved ones lived, not just how they died.
The conversation highlights the challenges of recognizing mental health struggles in high-functioning individuals.
The stigma surrounding mental health in the military can prevent people from seeking help.
The importance of open communication about mental health within families is stressed.
Reshma's experience shows the complexities of grief and the different ways children cope with loss.
The conversation underscores the need for societal change regarding mental health discussions and that navigating grief with children requires honesty and transparency.
Vulnerability can lead to powerful healing experiences.
Finding small bits of joy is essential in the grieving process.
Community support is crucial for those dealing with loss.
Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone.
Grief is a unique journey for everyone, even within the same family.
Mindfulness practices can aid in emotional healing.
Creating safe spaces for grief discussions fosters healing.
It's important to educate others about grief to prevent unintentional harm.
Hope and healing are possible, even after profound loss.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Raish McCarney's Story
05:36 - The Life and Legacy of Sean
10:06 - The Circumstances of Sean's Passing
16:01 - Understanding Mental Health in the Military
22:19 - Navigating Grief with Children
30:08 - The Power of Vulnerability in Healing
33:27 - Finding Joy Amidst Grief
39:13 - The Journey of Healing and Advocacy
43:36 - Creating Community and Support
46:13 - Future Endeavors and Resources
 
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223) 
Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books)
The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
Connect with Reshma KearneyWebsite: www.reshmakearney.comInstagram: @reshmakearneyEmail: hello@reshmakearney.com
Follow & Connect With Us
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel
🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast
 
See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.

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

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

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

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

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

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.
 
Episode Summary
In part one of our two-part conversation with mental health advocate, influencer, and mom Alli Skrbek, Alli shares her heartbreaking journey of losing her oldest son Alex to suicide, exploring his life, his struggles with depression and alcohol and drugs, and the tragic circumstances leading to his death. This candid and raw conversation offers insights into mental health, warning signs, and the importance of awareness and intervention.
Allie talks openly and emotionally about grief, family dynamics, substance use, and she speaks about her journey into mental health advocacy and suicide prevention. 
She's a warrior, and she's sharing Alex's story—and her grief—with the world to help normalize the conversations so many families are afraid to have. Through her honesty, vulnerability, and advocacy, Alli is breaking down stigma, shining a light on the realities of mental illness and suicide loss, and reminding other grieving parents that they are not alone. This is one of our most powerful conversations ever about love, loss, survival, and the courage it takes to keep telling the stories that matter.
 
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™ 
Struggling with your mental health? Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just alone? Well, you're not. Welcome to The HelpHUB™—your online destination for mental health resources, treatment options, content, and tools to help meet you exactly where you are in the moment. Visit TheHelpHUB.co to get started.
 
Takeaways
Alex's personality and passions
Signs of depression and warning signs
Circumstances leading to Alex's suicide
Family dynamics and mental health challenges
The impact of trauma and substance abuse
Recognize early warning signs of depression and suicidal ideation
Seek professional help for loved ones showing signs of distress
Create a safety plan for at-risk individuals
Advocate for mental health awareness and education
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Allie's Story
03:39 Remembering Alex: A Tribute to His Life
06:34 Understanding the Signs of Struggle
09:11  The Impact of Relationships on Mental Health
11:53  Navigating Family Dynamics and Mental Health
14:33  The Struggles of Young Adulthood
17:33  Crisis Moments and Warning Signs
20:10  The Consequences of Substance Abuse
23:17  Seeking Help and Facing Challenges
26:12  The Journey of Healing and Reflection
28:00  The Turning Point: A Mother's Struggle
29:42  Unraveling the Truth: The Hidden Struggles
37:10  The Tragic News: A Life Cut Short
43:36  The Aftermath: Seeking Answers and Justice
 
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223) 
Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books)
Follow Alli on TikTok at @alli_mom (Alex's Sky)
 
Follow & Connect With Us
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel
🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast
 
See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.
 

*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.
 
Episode Summary
This episode of The Survivors explores how major losses and life changes — from suicide and family death to coming out and leaving a polygamous cult — reshape who we are. Hosts share personal stories about identity shifts, isolation, grief, and the hard work of finding new communities and meaning.
Through candid conversation, Lisa & Natasha offer compassion, resources, and hope for anyone learning to live with a changed self.
 
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™ 
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Key Topics
Moments of identity realization
Impact of loss and trauma on self
Coming out as pansexual after years of marriage
Exiting polygamous cults and redefining self
The importance of language in healing and identity
Key Takeaways
Identity is fluid and constantly evolving.
Loss can lead to profound self-discovery.
Open communication about identity fosters healing.
Support systems are crucial during life transitions.
Embracing change can lead to personal empowerment.
Chapters
00:00 Identity Shifts and Realizations
06:37 Navigating Relationships After Loss
12:32 Coming Out and Embracing Sexuality
18:27 The Importance of Language in Identity
25:34 Excommunication and Loss of Community
31:12 Embracing Change and Moving Forward
 
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223) 
Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books)
 
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See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.