Touched Out!

Parenting Podcast of the Year 2024

1 Creator

Welcome to Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents, where we explore the profound intersection of mental health and parenthood through raw, unfiltered, and emotional conversations. Hosted by Carter, a fellow parent navigating the challenges of mental health, this podcast provides a genuine look into the realities of parenting and self-care.
Touched Out invites you to join heartfelt discussions with guests from around the world who share their personal stories and insights. Discover how their mental health journeys have shaped their parenting experiences and learn about the powerful ways they are creating supportive environments for their children. Our conversations touch on crucial topics such as:
Parenting and Mental Health: Exploring how mental health impacts parenting and family life.
Real-Life Parenting Stories: Honest accounts from parents who are navigating the ups and downs of raising children while managing mental health.
Healing and Growth: Techniques for nurturing your own emotional well-being as a parent, allowing you to heal your inner child while raising resilient kids.
Cultural Perspectives: Insights from parents worldwide, offering diverse perspectives on parenting styles and mental health.
Building a Supportive Community: Creating spaces where parents feel seen, loved, and supported in their journey.
Touched Out is not about offering professional advice; instead, it’s about sharing real stories from real parents who understand the joys and challenges of raising children while balancing mental health. It’s a space where you can find connection, empathy, and encouragement from people who are on the same journey as you.
Whether you're a new parent, a seasoned caregiver, or someone looking to understand the complexities of mental health in family life, Touched Out offers relatable insights and inspiration. Subscribe now to Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents on your favorite podcast platform and be part of a community dedicated to growth and understanding.
Why Listen to Touched Out?
Authentic Conversations: Honest, unfiltered discussions about the realities of parenting and mental health.
Relatable Stories: Hear from parents who are navigating the same challenges you face every day.
Supportive Environment: A community where parents can find solace, understanding, and encouragement.
Subscribe today and join the Touched Out community for insightful conversations and practical stories about nurturing both your mental health and parenting journey. Let's work together to create a future where both parents and children thrive emotionally and mentally.

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What is The Touched Out Podcast about?

A raw, unfiltered and emotional peek into the intersection of mental health and parenthood. Carter speaks with guests from around the world about their mental health journeys and the ways in which their experiences molded them in parenthood and the ways they are making changes to ensure their children grow up feeling seen, loved and supported whilst also healing their inner child along the way.

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Top 10 Touched Out! Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Touched Out! episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Touched Out! for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Touched Out! episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Ep 1 | Navigating Step-Parenting & Embracing Unique Needs

Touched Out!

03/29/23 • 37 min

Welcome to Episode One of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents!
In this debut episode, we delve into the complexities of step-parenting with Kate, a dedicated stepmother who navigates the challenges of raising children with unique needs, including autism.
Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions on child abuse related to an injury suffered by Kate's eldest daughter as a baby. Listener discretion is advised.
Join us as Kate shares her personal experiences with:
Step-Parenting Dynamics: Insights into blending families and the rewards and difficulties of managing diverse family dynamics.
Autism Parenting: Strategies and experiences of supporting a child with autism, highlighting the unique aspects of this journey.
Overcoming Parenting Challenges: Practical advice for handling common obstacles faced by step-parents and fostering a supportive environment.
Kate also opens up about her personal mental health journey, balancing family responsibilities, self-care, and maintaining emotional well-being within a blended family setup.

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Thanks for listening to Touched Out: A Mental Health and Parenting Support Podcast.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, share, and leave a rating and review. Your support helps others discover their new favorite parenting and mental health podcast.

Stay tuned for more insights, tips and personal stories on parenting and mental health.
Thanks again for listening and keep on keeping on!
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Ep 9 | Challenging Stereotypes in Parenting: A Father’s Emotional Journey

Touched Out!

06/06/23 • 59 min

Welcome to Episode Nine of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents!

In this thought-provoking episode, host Carter sits down with Luke, a stay-at-home dad of five, who shares his powerful story of navigating fatherhood, trauma, and mental health. Luke opens up about his battles with anxiety, self-medication, and the pressures of managing a blended family, while also challenging societal norms around masculinity and emotional expression.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions on mental health struggles, self-medication, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

Join us as Luke discusses:

Vulnerability and Fatherhood: Luke shares his journey of embracing vulnerability and breaking free from traditional masculine roles, emphasizing the importance of open emotional expression in parenting.

Personal Healing and Mental Health: Insights into Luke's personal battles with anxiety and self-medication, and how these challenges led him to focus on family and healing childhood traumas.

Balancing Family and Career: A candid look at how Luke manages the complexities of raising a blended family while dealing with online negativity and societal expectations.

Supportive Communities for Fathers: The critical need for supportive networks and resources for fathers, highlighting Luke's dedication to fostering change and advocating for mental health awareness.

Overcoming Societal Stigmas: A discussion on the societal pressures faced by men in expressing emotions, and the importance of challenging traditional gender roles for a healthier family dynamic.

Empowerment Through Authenticity: Luke’s story underscores the power of authenticity and community, offering a platform for fathers to share their experiences and embrace their roles fully.

Listen to Luke's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into parenting, mental health, and the power of vulnerability. Subscribe now to Touched Out for more heartfelt conversations and practical tips on navigating parenthood and mental health.

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Ep 10 | Cutting Ties and Moving Forward: Family Estrangement Insights

Touched Out!

06/20/23 • 54 min

Welcome to Episode Ten of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents!

In this enlightening episode, host Carter is joined by Bekah and Bryan, a resilient couple who have spent 18 years navigating the complex landscape of parenting and mental health. From facing family estrangement to raising a child with autism, their journey is filled with both challenges and triumphs. Bekah and Bryan candidly discuss their unique parenting experiences, shedding light on how mental health awareness has profoundly influenced their approach to family life.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions on mental health challenges, family estrangement, grief, and loss. Listener discretion is advised.

Join us as Bekah and Bryan discuss:

Navigating Grief and Estrangement: Insights into Bekah's decision to cut ties with her family and how this choice has impacted their parenting journey, alongside their experiences of dealing with profound loss and grief.

Parenting with Purpose: How Bekah and Bryan overcame their own childhood trauma and used those lessons to create a nurturing environment for their children, emphasizing emotional growth and resilience.

Fatherhood and Emotional Growth: Bryan shares the male perspective on mental health, detailing his initial resistance to therapy and the transformative impact it had on his emotional well-being.

Understanding Autism: A heartfelt discussion on the unique dynamics introduced by raising a child with autism, including the challenges and joys that have shaped their family life.

Setting Emotional Examples: The importance of setting a healthy emotional example for children and how Bekah and Bryan are challenging societal expectations around masculinity and emotional expression.

Grief and Loss: The emotional weight of explaining death to young children, sharing poignant anecdotes about the loss of a loved one to cancer and the comforting presence of grandparents sensed by their children.

Community and Support: How personal beliefs and online communities provide solace, emphasizing the critical role of community support in navigating parenting challenges.

Listen to Bekah and Bryan inspiring story and gain valuable insights into how they navigate grief, family estrangement, and the realities of modern parenting. Subscribe now to Touched Out for more heartfelt conversations and practical tips on navigating parenthood and mental health.
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Ep 20 | Embracing Parenthood After Loss | Michael's Story of Resilience and Self-Care

Touched Out!

01/09/24 • 56 min

Welcome to Episode 20 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents.
In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the journey of Michael, a father who experienced the loss of an angel baby before conceiving his daughter, Maisie. Michael shares his experience of coping with grief, seeking professional help, and the challenges of parenting after loss.

Michael's Journey Through Grief

Michael opens up about the profound grief he and his partner faced after losing their angel baby. He discusses the emotional toll it took and the unique challenges both parents experienced during this time. Seeking professional help and support was crucial for Michael in processing his grief and navigating the emotional journey.

Parenting After Loss

The loss of their angel baby brought apprehension and anxiety into Michael's experience of parenting Maisie. He emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability, self-love, and self-care as a parent. Michael's story serves as a reminder to appreciate the journey of parenthood and to be present in both the highs and lows.

The Role of Storytelling

Throughout the conversation, Michael highlights the power of storytelling and its impact on others. Sharing personal experiences and stories can provide comfort, support, and inspiration to those facing similar challenges.

Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

Michael discusses how fear and self-doubt can hold us back from trying new things and pursuing our passions. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming these fears and taking the first step towards new opportunities.

Modeling Behavior for Children

As parents, Michael believes it is crucial to model positive behavior for our children. Creating a safe and supportive environment encourages children to try new things and learn from their mistakes. Michael reflects on how societal influences and fear of judgment can hinder our willingness to try new things as we grow older.

Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone

Michael shares the significance of stepping outside the comfort zone for personal growth and development. By expanding our horizons, learning new skills, and overcoming challenges, we can foster resilience and determination in ourselves and our children.

Join the Conversation

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. We hope Michael's story offers valuable insights and encouragement for other parents navigating similar challenges.

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Ep 14 | Informed Consent and Support: Lessons from George and Carter’s Birth Experiences

Touched Out!

08/01/23 • 100 min

Welcome to Episode Fourteen of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents!

In this heartfelt episode, host Carter and special guest George delve deep into their personal lives, sharing their hobbies, childhood experiences, and mental health struggles. Together, they recount their journey to finding each other, their relationship history, engagement, and the traumatic birth of their first child, Hendrix. Their candid discussion highlights the emotional and physical challenges they faced during each birth and the lasting impact on their mental health.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions on mental health challenges, traumatic childbirth, and family dynamics. Listener discretion is advised.

Join us as George and Carter discuss:

Navigating Hobbies and Childhood Memories:
Insights into George and Carter’s personal interests and how their childhood experiences shaped their mental health journeys.

Relationship History and Engagement:
A heartwarming recount of how George and Carter met, fell in love, and navigated the milestones of their relationship, culminating in their engagement.

Traumatic Birth's of Hendrix, Roman & Salem:
A raw and emotional discussion on the traumatic birth of their children, and the profound impact on their mental health and family dynamics.
Challenges of Childbirth:
The physical and emotional hurdles faced during each birth, highlighting the importance of informed consent and effective communication with healthcare providers.

Support System:
The crucial role of partners and family support during childbirth and postpartum recovery, emphasizing the strength and resilience of their family unit.

Advocacy for Better Healthcare Communication:
George and Carter stress the need for better communication and understanding between parents and healthcare providers to ensure a supportive and informed childbirth experience.

Enduring Love and Family Strength:
Their unwavering love for each other and their children, showcasing how their bond has fortified their ability to face challenges together.

Listen to George and Carter’s inspiring story and gain valuable insights into navigating childbirth, mental health struggles, and the importance of support systems. Subscribe now to Touched Out for more heartfelt conversations and practical tips on navigating parenthood and mental health.

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Season 2 Trailer (04/10/23)

Touched Out!

08/11/23 • 1 min

The Touched Out Podcast is back with a second season. Premiering on 4th October 2023. Mark your calendars!

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Ep 11 | Nurturing Against All Odds: Fiona’s Path Through Trauma to Gentle Parenting

Touched Out!

07/05/23 • 61 min

Welcome to Episode Eleven of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents!

In this heartfelt episode, we meet Fiona from Portland, Oregon, who bravely shares her journey through motherhood, adoption trauma, and mental health struggles. Fiona’s story is a testament to resilience and breaking generational cycles, as she navigates the challenges of parenting with conditions like OSDD and complex PTSD.
Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions on adoption trauma, mental health struggles, and societal pressures. Listener discretion is advised.

Join us as Fiona shares her personal experiences with:

Breaking the Cycle of Abuse: Insights into Fiona's determination to overcome her traumatic past and provide a nurturing environment for her son, despite her challenging upbringing and adoption experiences.
Gentle Parenting Strategies: Fiona's approach to raising her son with empathy and compassion, using techniques like positive reinforcement and non-physical discipline to foster emotional regulation and autonomy.
Mental Health Challenges: The unique hurdles of parenting with complex PTSD and disordered eating, and how these conditions shape Fiona's role as a mother and her journey toward healing and self-care.
Navigating Societal Pressures: Fiona's candid discussion on the modern challenges of parenting, from media influence to the impacts of societal issues like school shootings, and how she addresses these with her child.
Building a Supportive Community: The importance of finding a community of like-minded parents, especially those who are neurodivergent, and how this support has been instrumental in Fiona's parenting journey.

Fiona also opens up about her personal journey of healing and the importance of community support and self-care in parenting. Her story provides a relatable perspective on overcoming adversity and celebrating the milestones of raising children, shedding light on the mental health challenges many parents face.

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Ep 19 | Sobriety and Stand-Up | Sam Miller on Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Comedy

Touched Out!

11/08/23 • 40 min

Welcome to Episode 19 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents.
I'm your host, Carter, and today, we have an incredibly funny, kind, and wise guest, Sam Miller, joining us. In this episode, we'll delve into Sam's journey from addiction to recovery and his thriving career in stand-up comedy.

Sam Miller's Transformation

Sam, from Spokane, Washington, shares his incredible story of transformation. Sober since June 10, 2008, he is actively engaged in the recovery community. Sam opens up about the deep shame he felt during his addiction, particularly in how he hurt his mother, and reflects on the impact of his father, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force, who passed away when Sam was just 12.

Struggles with Addiction

Sam discusses his struggle with addiction, emphasizing that for him, it was not about getting high but running away from sobriety. He recounts his darkest moment when he was fired from his job as a firefighter with the US Forest Service due to excessive drinking, leading to a period of increased suicidal thoughts. The thought of hurting his mother was the only thing that kept him from taking that step.

Path to Recovery

Moving back home to his mother’s house, Sam had a moment of clarity that led him to seek help on June 10, 2008. He went through a grueling detox, marking the beginning of his journey to recovery. Sam shares that his first year of sobriety was more challenging than his last year of drug use, but it was a period of immense growth and adjustment.

Passion for Stand-Up Comedy

Sam has been doing stand-up comedy for 9 years and full-time for the last 2 years. He sees his comedy career as a gift of recovery. Reflecting on his first open mic experience, Sam describes it as a defining moment in his life, realizing he had always been a comedian. Making his family and friends laugh brings him immense joy, reinforcing the healing power of laughter.

Podcast and Album

Sam discusses his podcast, "The Tarp Report," co-hosted with fellow comedian Jess Anderson, as well as his debut album, "Round Trip," which is available now. He emphasizes the importance of raising kind and empathetic children, sharing insights from his 12 years of marriage and being a father to two children, aged 12 and 10.

Words of Wisdom

We conclude the episode with Sam's words of wisdom for anyone struggling with addiction or facing challenging times: "As best you can, find ways to love yourself" and "Keep in mind that there are unknown unknowns."

Connect with Sam Miller

You can find Sam's podcast, album, and tour schedule at Sam Miller Comedy.

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Ep 24 | Balancing Motherhood, Domestic Violence Recovery, and the Realities of OnlyFans | Tarrine's Story

Touched Out!

05/01/24 • 59 min

Welcome to Episode 24 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents.

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Tarrine, a single mom, technical recruiter by day, and OnlyFans content creator by night. Tarrine's story is one of resilience, strength, and determination as she balances motherhood, battles domestic violence, and navigates the complex world of sex work while focusing on her son's mental health and emotional intelligence.

Tarrine's Background and Career

Tarrine's journey is marked by her diverse career paths and personal challenges. As a technical recruiter, she navigates the corporate world, while her work as an OnlyFans content creator showcases her entrepreneurial spirit. These dual careers have uniquely shaped Tarrine's approach to parenting and her commitment to providing a stable and nurturing environment for her son.

Overcoming Domestic Violence

Tarrine opens up about her harrowing experiences with domestic violence and how she overcame these challenges. Her story is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience required to break free from abusive relationships and build a better life for herself and her child. Tarrine's journey is an inspiring example of how one can rise above adversity and emerge stronger.

Balancing Parenthood and Dual Careers

In this episode, Tarrine shares the realities of balancing single parenthood with her dual careers. She discusses the impact of her work on family dynamics and how she manages societal judgments and stigmas associated with sex work. Tarrine offers insights into the delicate balance of providing for her family while nurturing her son's emotional and mental well-being.

Focusing on Men's Mental Health and Emotional Intelligence

A key focus of Tarrine's parenting approach is raising her son with an emphasis on men's mental health and emotional intelligence. She believes in the importance of teaching her child to be kind, assertive, and emotionally aware. Tarrine shares her strategies for fostering a healthy and respectful relationship with her son, highlighting the significance of these values in today's world.

Debunking Stigmas Around Sex Work

Join us as Tarrine and I discuss the societal stigmas surrounding sex work and the misconceptions that often accompany this industry. We delve into the complexities of sex work and Tarrine's personal experiences, shedding light on the importance of challenging societal norms and embracing personal empowerment.

Join the Conversation

Thank you for joining me and Tarrine on this episode. We hope you enjoyed the discussion and gained valuable insights into the realities faced by single parents balancing dual careers and the challenges of overcoming domestic violence.

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Ep 16 | Breaking Stigmas | ADHD | Autism | Innovative Sensory Solutions with Jo from Kaiko Fidgets

Touched Out!

09/26/23 • 72 min

Welcome to Episode 16 The Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents.
I'm your host, Carter, and today, we're diving into the fascinating and often misunderstood dynamics of ADHD and Autism in our society.

Meet Jo, the mother of Kai and Kobe. Kai, a brilliant young mind, founded Kaiko at just 11 years old in 2017. Kaiko was created to provide age-appropriate sensory solutions and fidget toys, born out of Kai's personal experiences with dyslexia and autism. These sensory solutions have significantly boosted his confidence and mental well-being.

Challenging Stigmas Around Autism

In our conversation, Jo and I discuss the negative stigma often associated with Autism and how it impacts late diagnoses. We delve into Kai's mental health journey and how his struggles led to the creation of Kaiko.

The Growth of Kaiko

Starting at local markets, Kaiko has now expanded to over 120 stockists. They focus on creating needs-based tools designed to replace non-suicidal self-harm practices. We explore the difference between self-harm as a coping mechanism for sensory overload and using tools like wrist and finger spiky's to provide non-harmful pain relief.

The Importance of Wearable Fidgets

Wearable fidgets offer individuals immediate sensory relief. Jo and I emphasize the importance of having these tools readily available, discussing how they can improve daily life for those with sensory needs.

Neurodiversity, Gender Fluidity, and Body Modification

Drawing from personal experiences, I share my history with self-harm and masking behaviors. We discuss the strong overlap between neurodiversity and gender fluidity, theorizing a potential connection between body modification and neurodiversity.

Powerful Insights and Continued Conversations

Thank you for joining us on this insightful episode. Let's continue to break down stigmas and explore innovative ways to support our neurodiverse community. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions.

Explore Kaiko's Range

You can browse and purchase Kaiko’s extensive range at Kaiko Fidgets. Head to the podcast Instagram and hit the bio link to sign up for preorder today.

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