Touched Out!

A Mental Health Podcast For Parents

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 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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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 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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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 30 | A Mothers worry | Societal Pressures & Postpartum Depression in New Dads

Touched Out!

07/23/24 • 44 min

Welcome to Episode 30 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked issue of men's mental health during the postpartum period. Join us as we discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating postpartum depression from a father's perspective.

Men's Mental Health in the Postpartum Period

Sam shares her partner Mitchell's struggle with postpartum depression and the difficulties they faced in finding adequate support. The conversation highlights the lack of resources and understanding available for men during this crucial time.

The Stigma and Shame of Men's Postpartum Depression

We explore the stigma and shame associated with men experiencing postpartum depression. This segment discusses the societal pressures that discourage men from expressing vulnerability and seeking help.

The Role of Medication and Alternative Support

The episode examines the role of medication in treating postpartum depression and emphasizes exploring alternative forms of support. We discuss the importance of a supportive network and the value of professional guidance.

Building a Strong Parenting Partnership

Mitchell's transformation from struggling father to a confident and supportive partner is a central theme. We highlight how he learned to handle parenting challenges, such as the baby's crying, and stepped up during a pivotal trip to Germany. The importance of time, communication, and shared responsibilities in overcoming postpartum depression and strengthening the parental partnership is emphasized.

Key Takeaways

Men's mental health during the postpartum period is often stigmatized and under-discussed.
There is a significant gap in resources and understanding for fathers experiencing postpartum depression.
Exploring alternative support systems beyond medication is essential.
Open communication, time, and support from partners are critical in overcoming postpartum depression.
Breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations about men's mental health are vital.

Join the Conversation

We invite you to join the discussion on men's mental health during the postpartum period. Share your experiences and thoughts on social media, and let's work together to break the stigma.

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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 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 7 | A Mother's Legacy: Honoring My Mum on Mother's Day

Touched Out!

05/16/23 • 14 min

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

In this heartfelt episode, host Carter shares a deeply personal and emotional story in honor of his late mother. Recorded on Mother's Day in Australia, Carter reflects on his mother's life, her struggles with mental health, her courageous battle with cancer, and the lasting impact she had on his life. This episode is a tribute to all mothers and a reminder of the strength and resilience that they embody.

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

Join us as Carter discusses:

Mother's Day Reflections: Balancing grief for his mother and celebrating his wife.

Early Life and Childhood Memories: A nostalgic look at Carter's mother's life, from her childhood in rural Australia to her career and family life.

Single Parenthood and Mental Health Struggles: The challenges of single parenthood and the impact of mental health on Carter's mother.

The Cancer Diagnosis: The inspiring story of her battle with cancer, her volunteer work, and her enduring sense of humor.

Caregiving and Loss: The emotional journey of caregiving and the profound loss experienced upon her passing.

Subscribe now to Touched Out for more heartfelt conversations and practical tips on navigating parenthood and mental health.

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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 23 | Fatherhood, Recovery, and Identity | How Daniel Overcame Addiction, Embraced Autism and his LGBTQIA+ Identity

Touched Out!

04/23/24 • 58 min

Welcome to Episode 23 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents.
In todays Episode, Daniel Van Nice shares his deeply personal story of overcoming mental health challenges, including a recent struggle with sleep issues. Daniel opens up about his discovery of being on the autism spectrum, his experiences with homeschooling, and the difficulties he faced when transitioning to public school. He reflects on how becoming a parent saved his life, sharing the joy and meaning he finds in fatherhood. Daniel also discusses his battle with addiction, the challenges of recovery, and the invaluable support he received along the way. This conversation highlights the complexities of addiction recovery, the impact of addiction, the importance of support systems, and the power of resilience.
Mental Health Struggles and Neurodivergence
Daniel Van Nice opens up about his mental health struggles, including a recent rough patch with sleep issues.
He reflects on his neurodivergent sixth sense and his realization of being on the autism spectrum.

The Impact of Homeschooling and Transitioning to Public School
Daniel shares his experiences of being homeschooled and the challenges he faced when transitioning to public school.
Insights into how these experiences shaped his perspective on education and social interactions.

Addiction and Recovery
Daniel's battle with addiction and his journey to overcome it.
The challenges and triumphs of addiction recovery, including the tragic consequences of addiction.

Support Systems in Recovery
The role of support groups like SMART Recovery in Daniel's recovery process.
Building a network of support and understanding to aid in recovery.

Fighting for Parental Rights
The emotional process of fighting for parental rights and its impact on mental health.
Strategies and tips for navigating the legal system and advocating for one's rights.

Housing and It's Influence on Mental Health
The struggles with housing and its effect on overall well-being and mental health.
The significance of stability in promoting a healthy mental state.

The Power of Asking for Help
Emphasizing that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The benefits of reaching out and seeking assistance during difficult times.

Emotional Openness with Children
The importance of being emotionally open with children to help them navigate their emotions.
Techniques for fostering emotional intelligence in children.

This episode of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents with Daniel Van Nice is an inspiring exploration of mental health, fatherhood, and resilience. Daniel’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of support, authenticity, and the courage to seek help.

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Ep 13 | The Impact of Choices: Life Lessons from Mark Experience

Touched Out!

07/18/23 • 37 min

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

In this powerful episode, host Carter is joined by Mark, an Indigenous Australian and corrections officer, who has chosen to remain anonymous. Mark bravely shares his deeply personal journey, discussing the impact of life choices, the power of empathy, and the significant hardships he faced growing up. He opens up about his father's struggle with PTSD and suicide, revealing the profound effect it had on him and his family.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions on PTSD, suicide, and mental health struggles. Listener discretion is advised.

Join us as Mark discusses:

Life Choices and Consequences: How Mark's early life decisions shaped his future and career.
Empathy and Hardships: The impact of growing up as an Indigenous Australian and the empathy it fostered.
Mental Health Challenges: Insights into his father’s PTSD and suicide, and the emotional toll it took on his family.
Coping Strategies: Practical advice on seeking help, expressing emotions, and maintaining mental health.
Cherishing Loved Ones: The importance of spending quality time with family and expressing love and appreciation.

Listen to Mark's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights and support for your own challenges. Subscribe now to Touched Out for more heartfelt conversations and practical tips on navigating parenthood and mental health.

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