Podcast
Even Tacos Fall Apart
Hosted by MommaFoxFire · EN
The "Even Tacos Fall Apart" talk show includes interviews with actual mental health professionals and conversations where real people talk about the messy side of mental illness, disabilities, wellness and life in general. My goal is to normalize mental health conversations and reduce the stigma around illnesses. We all struggle at different times in our lives, but that doesn't mean we're unlovable - after all, Tacos Fall Apart and WE STILL LOVE THOSE!
mommafoxfire is a MH advocate and variety gaming streamer on Twitch: twitch.tv/mommafoxfire
tacosfallapart.com
42episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Living with ADHD & Asperger's with TrashLadd
Jan 600:57:04Tap to summarizeThis episode is for anyone who knows (or WANTS to know!) what it's like when your brain just works differently than everyone else's.More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/trashladdEmmett (TrashLadd) is 17 and from Canada. He graduated high school this year and knows what it's like to navigate school with ADHD and Asperger's. He got his ADHD diagnosis in third grade and his Asperger's diagnosis in seventh grade. That second diagnosis helped explain a lot about how he acted at school and at home.Before his ADHD diagnosis Emmett couldn't focus in class. He was always moving around and couldn't sit still. His parents took him to see a specialist who tested him and started him on a path to getting the accommodations he needed. After being diagnosed he got extra time on tests, access to an iPad for notes and scribes when he needed them. Most importantly he started to understand the real struggles people face when living with mental disabilities.The ADHD symptoms Emmett deals with daily include major anxiety and constantly jumping between tasks. He describes being very much in the now, losing track of time completely. He'll get home from school, start playing Xbox with friends and suddenly realize hours have passed. To combat this he sets tons of timers on his phone and tries to stick to schedules even though it's hard.The Asperger's shows up differently. When something goes wrong or doesn't happen the normal way, Emmett starts to panic. If he can't find his book or phone or charger he feels that wrongness immediately. His solution is keeping things visible. As his mom put it, out of sight means out of mind. His room might look messy to others but everything is in places where he knows he can find it.Emmett originally planned to go into coding after high school but realized he hated it. During a co-op placement at an elementary school he discovered he loved helping kids in the classroom. Now he wants to become a developmental service worker. He knows what it's like to struggle with learning and memory. He wants to use those experiences to advocate for kids going through the same thing and help them get what they need to succeed.His advice for other young adults struggling with mental health is straightforward. Find something that motivates you. For him it's talking with friends every morning and asking how they slept. Get into a routine and stick with it until something new happens. Join random Discord servers and make new friends. Find people you can count on.Emmett is big on calling out people who self-diagnose or compare mental illnesses like they're all the same. Just because someone has anxiety once doesn't mean they understand what it's like for someone who has it way worse. He wants people to inform themselves, learn what's actually going on and figure out how they can help. And if someone doesn't want help then leave them alone.The biggest takeaway from talking with Emmett is that living with ADHD and Asperger's means constantly adapting. It means finding systems that work even if they look weird to other people. It means having friends who have your back. And it means being willing to reach out for help when you need it.
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Addressing Self-sabotage & Anxiety in Creative & Educational Spaces with Dr. Albert Bramante
Dec 3001:24:15Tap to summarizeIf you've ever found yourself with 82 browser tabs (mental or literal!) open while simultaneously achieving nothing, this conversation is for you.Ways to connect, more info & resources - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/albert-bramanteDr. Albert Bramante joined me to talk about why performers and educators are especially vulnerable to self-sabotage and what we can actually do about it. As a performance psychologist and talent agent who's spent over 20 years working with actors and teachers, Albert has seen the patterns that keep talented people stuck.The conversation got real pretty quickly when Albert pointed out something most of us don't want to admit: that nervous feeling before you perform or teach is physiologically identical to excitement. Your body can't tell the difference between stage fright and anticipation. The only thing that changes is the story you tell yourself about those butterflies.Albert explained that chronic procrastination and perfectionism are just two sides of the same coin. When you want something to be perfect and you know it never will be, you just never start. Or you start so late that failure becomes inevitable. It's a beautiful self-fulfilling prophecy that keeps you safe from ever really trying.Teachers and performers face unique pressure because there's rarely immediate feedback. You might impact someone's life and never know it. A student might not realize what you taught them until years later. An audience member might be deeply moved but never say a word. That absence of validation feeds impostor syndrome like nothing else.We also dug into the myth of multitasking. Spoiler: it doesn't exist. What we call multitasking is actually just rapid task-switching, and it's killing our productivity. Albert recommended the three to five tab rule (yes, I felt personally attacked), and pointed out that when you have too many choices or too many things open, you get paralyzed and accomplish nothing.One of the most powerful moments came when we talked about trauma and grief. Albert made it clear that if you can't talk about a traumatic event the way you'd describe what you had for breakfast last week, you still have work to do. And that's okay! Healing isn't linear! You can get all the way to acceptance and wake up the next day right back in anger.His advice for anyone caught in the self-sabotage cycle is to remember that you are enough. Most people walk around thinking they're not worthy of success or happiness, and that belief becomes the script they follow.The practical takeaway that hit hardest: if opening your email makes you feel like you're drowning, if you're always tired but never resting, if every year feels the same as the last one, you're probably holding yourself back. And the first step to changing it is just noticing that it's happening.Because self-sabotage isn't usually conscious. Nobody wakes up and decides to ruin their own day. But once you see the pattern, you can start to change it.This conversation was a reminder that getting in your own way isn't a character flaw. But it IS a protection mechanism that's outlived its usefulness. Your brain thinks it's keeping you safe by convincing you to wait for the perfect moment or do more research or tell yourself you're too tired. Safe and stuck look pretty similar from the outside. If you're a teacher wondering if you're making any difference, or a creative person tired of your own excuses, or just someone who's spent too many years in the same place wondering why nothing ever changes, this episode might be the wake-up call you didn't know you needed.
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Cultural Sensitivity, Racism & resources for AAPI with randomlyjme
Feb 11, 202501:42:32Tap to summarizeIf you care about cultural sensitivity, want to understand the impact of racism on AAPI communities, or just want to hear a real, honest conversation about identity and representation, this episode is for you.More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/randomlyjmeIn this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, I sat down with Jamie, aka randomlyjme, to talk about cultural sensitivity, racism, and resources for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). Jamie, a certified occupational therapist assistant and therapy program manager, shared her personal experiences growing up as a Korean adoptee in a white family in the Midwest.Jamie opened up about her cultural identity struggles, explaining how she didn’t really think about being different until others pointed it out. Growing up in a small Missouri town, she didn’t have many people around who looked like her, and her parents never really engaged with Korean culture. Things shifted when her family moved to South Korea for three years, where she suddenly felt out of place in a different way. Despite looking like everyone else, she didn’t speak Korean and wasn’t fully accepted by Korean peers. This back-and-forth experience shaped her complicated relationship with her cultural identity.We discussed the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes, misinformation, and the impact of racist rhetoric—especially after COVID-19. Jamie shared a painful moment when an older couple in a store blamed “her people” for the pandemic, leaving her stunned. She admitted that in those moments, she often feels taken aback first, then angry later, wishing she had spoken up. At work, she tries to educate colleagues when they make ignorant comments, helping them understand how language and assumptions can be harmful.The conversation shifted to the “model minority” myth—the damaging stereotype that all Asians are high-achieving, hardworking, and successful. Jamie broke it down: while some Asians are wealthy and highly educated, a huge number live in poverty, particularly in cities like New York. The stereotype also creates a harmful comparison to other minority groups, suggesting that if Asians can “make it,” then systemic racism isn’t real—when in reality, it's a deeply flawed narrative.We also touched on the importance of representation, from media to video games. Jamie shared her mixed feelings about Dead by Daylight’s attempt at adding Korean characters. While the killer character was done well, the survivor didn’t actually look Korean—more like a generic white model with an Asian name slapped on. Representation matters, and getting the details right is part of respecting a culture.For those wanting to learn more or support AAPI communities, Jamie highlighted resources like Stop AAPI Hate and the Asian Mental Health Collective. Stop AAPI Hate tracks hate crime incidents and provides multilingual support, while the Asian Mental Health Collective focuses on breaking the cultural stigma surrounding mental health in Asian communities.At the end of the day, Jamie emphasized that cultural sensitivity isn’t complicated—it starts with asking thoughtful questions, listening, and being aware of the impact words can have. Understanding someone’s culture is great, but it should always be part of learning about them as a whole person, not just a label.This conversation was raw, insightful, and a reminder that there’s always more to learn.
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How to Build Healthy, Thriving Relationships with Dr. Mark Hicks
Feb 4, 202501:08:29Tap to summarizeIf you've ever struggled with communication, boundaries, or making relationships actually work, this episode with Dr. Mark Hicks is for you—whether it’s love, friendship, family, or coworkers, these insights can change the way you connect. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/dr-mark-hicks In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, Dr. Mark Hicks joins us to talk about what makes relationships thrive. As an author, counselor, speaker, and relationship expert, Mark is passionate about breaking down what makes love last—whether it’s with a partner, friends, family, or even coworkers. Mark’s book, Learning Love: Building a Life That Matters and Healthy Relationships That Last, explores five key components of love that anyone can practice to create stronger, healthier connections. And guess what? The first one might surprise you—grief. He explains that people who struggle with relationships often have past wounds that make them put up walls. Learning to grieve and heal is the first step in opening up to real connection. The other components—emotion, practicality, acceptance, and passion—build on that foundation, giving us the tools to communicate, work through conflict, and genuinely enjoy our relationships. We also talk about the cultural stigma around mental health and relationships, particularly how people hesitate to seek therapy. Mark is firm: everyone should see a counselor. Just like we go to doctors for physical health, therapy should be a regular part of life. He even suggests treating it like going to the dentist—check in every six months, whether or not you think you need it. One of the biggest relationship mistakes? Trying to “go it alone.” Mark points out that relationships are shaped by how we grew up, and let’s be real—most of us didn’t get a perfect roadmap from our families. Whether it’s through therapy, coaching, or just being open to learning, improving relationships starts with improving yourself. And that means self-love. He reminds us that we can’t love others more than we love ourselves—so if we’re struggling to show up for our relationships, it might be time to look inward. Of course, we also get into the fun stuff. Mark and his wife travel the country as professional house and pet sitters, which means he’s often writing his books (or ghostwriting others) from someone else’s home while caring for their pets. He also shares his unexpected fascination with the Manson family case, how past heartbreak shaped his views on love, and why laughter—even forced laughter—can completely shift your mindset. This conversation is packed with insight, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone looking to improve their relationships. Whether you’re trying to heal from a breakup, struggling to communicate, or just want deeper connections, Mark’s approach gives you real tools to make it happen. His book is being republished by Morgan James Publishing, with pre-orders opening in November and a full release in June 2025. In the meantime, you can grab his free eBook for a breakdown of the five components of love.
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Stress, Diabetes & Laughter Yoga with Pete Alexander
Jan 28, 202501:53:58Tap to summarizeIf you’re feeling the weight of stress or need a fresh perspective on managing your health, this episode is for you—discover how laughter, self-awareness, and small changes can transform your life. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/pete-alexander In this episode, MommaFoxFire welcomes Professor Pete Alexander to discuss the unexpected intersections of stress, diabetes and laughter yoga. Pete, a TEDx speaker, bestselling author and certified laughter yoga instructor, shares his journey of transforming his own health challenges into tools for helping others reduce stress and live healthier lives. The conversation kicks off with Pete explaining his career shift to interior landscaping, a field he grew to love despite the initial stress of running a business. Pete candidly discusses how chronic stress manifested in his life, eventually leading to a diagnosis of stress-induced diabetes. Ignoring warning signs like rapid weight loss, exhaustion and headaches, he powered through until a near-death experience in 2018 forced him to reevaluate everything. This wake-up call led him to adopt stress management techniques that not only improved his mental health but also positively impacted his blood sugar levels and overall well-being. Pete highlights how stress creates cellular inflammation, which contributes to chronic diseases like diabetes. He shares practical tips to identify stress early, such as noticing mood swings, sleep disruptions or physical tension in the shoulders. Importantly, he urges listeners not to trade their health for their careers, emphasizing that health and time are our most valuable assets. The conversation takes a lighter turn as Pete dives into the magic of laughter yoga. He explains how even fake laughter can trigger the release of endorphins, improving mood and lowering stress. Pete shares moving stories from his laughter yoga classes, including how participants overcame grief, trauma and depression simply by laughing together. Laughter yoga, he notes, connects us to our inner child and reminds us of the joy we experienced as kids. Pete also encourages listeners to try simple strategies like laughing at red lights or stressful moments to instantly shift their mindset. He describes laughter yoga as a way to build community and break down barriers, helping people of all ages and backgrounds find relief in laughter’s universal language. The episode wraps up with advice for high-achieving professionals: define your core values. Pete explains that aligning decisions with personal values can prevent unnecessary stress and create a more balanced life. He also stresses the importance of setting boundaries with work, like unplugging during vacations, to fully recharge. Packed with relatable anecdotes, humor and actionable tips, this episode is a reminder to listen to your body, embrace joy and prioritize your health before it’s too late.
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Safety in Game Design & Personal Journey with Beau Jágr Sheldon
Jan 21, 202501:48:49Tap to summarizeA must-listen for anyone passionate about creating safer, more inclusive spaces—whether in games, leadership, or everyday life—and for those seeking inspiration from a personal story of resilience and advocacy. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/beau-jagr-sheldon In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, I sat down with Beau Jágr Sheldon to discuss their unique journey through game design, leadership, education, and navigating mental health. Beau, a non-binary, queer, and polyamorous game designer, shared how their personal experiences and passion for storytelling have shaped their work and their advocacy for representation and safety in gaming. Beau’s career is rooted in a love for games, but it didn’t start smoothly. Early on, they encountered toxic environments and boundaries being crossed at game tables. These experiences led Beau to develop Script Change, a safety tool for tabletop games that promotes consent and empowers players to address discomfort in real time. For Beau, safety isn’t about guaranteeing perfection—it’s about creating spaces where people feel supported and heard. Their game, Turn, holds a special place in their heart. It’s a narrative tabletop RPG about shapeshifters living in rural small towns. Inspired by their life growing up in Pennsylvania, Beau crafted Turn to explore themes of marginalization, identity, and community in a safe and meaningful way. The game uses mechanics that lean into storytelling and emotional exploration while sidestepping violence—a stark contrast to traditional games. Beau explained how they worked with sensitivity readers and experts to ensure the game’s settings and stories reflected diverse experiences authentically. On representation, Beau didn’t mince words: it matters. They pointed out the issues of performative inclusivity in mainstream gaming, emphasizing the need for marginalized creators to be genuinely supported, both financially and through meaningful collaboration. Beau also highlighted the power of indie games to break barriers and foster real connection, encouraging everyone to create games that reflect their unique perspectives. In addition to designing games, Beau is a writer of horror erotica, a genre they’ve embraced as a way to explore and process complex emotions tied to mental illness. They shared how writing has been a therapeutic outlet, helping them express thoughts and feelings that are often stigmatized. Beau’s journey has been shaped by living with bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and anxiety. They were candid about the challenges of managing their mental health, from navigating medication and therapy to balancing relationships and professional work. Beau described how open communication with partners and friends has been crucial, as has creating spaces for self-care, like their dedicated meditation room. Ultimately, this conversation was about pushing boundaries—whether in game design, representation, or mental health. Beau’s work and story reflect resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making the gaming world and society at large more inclusive and compassionate.
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MDMA for PTSD Therapy with Jill Sitnick
Jan 14, 202501:29:29Tap to summarizeIf you’re curious about how MDMA-assisted therapy is changing the game for PTSD treatment—or you just want an honest, eye-opening look at healing from trauma—this episode is for you. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/jill-sitnick On this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, MommaFoxFire welcomed Jill Sitnick, an advocate for MDMA-assisted therapy, to share her story of healing childhood trauma-induced PTSD. Jill brings a unique perspective, having undergone MDMA-assisted therapy and written about her journey in her memoir Rescuing Jill. She also educates others through her YouTube channel, The Journey Sage. The conversation kicked off with Jill explaining MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy or Molly, and its role in therapy. Unlike its recreational use at parties, MDMA-assisted therapy focuses on healing trauma by calming the brain’s fear response and creating a compassionate, safe space for emotional exploration. Jill shared that her treatment followed a structured protocol: 40% preparation, 20% treatment (the actual MDMA session), and 40% integration—where the real healing happens. Jill emphasized how MDMA therapy quiets the amygdala, the brain's "fire alarm," allowing trauma patients to process memories without the debilitating fear or fight-or-flight response. Over three MDMA sessions spread across a year, Jill saw profound changes, including no longer meeting the criteria for PTSD. While she still works through residual trauma, she described the therapy as life-changing. The conversation covered the importance of set and setting in psychedelic therapy. Jill’s sessions were guided by a trusted therapist and medical doctor in a safe, cozy environment. She described the process as one of empathetic witnessing, where therapists provide gentle support rather than leading the conversation. Interestingly, Jill noted that insights often come after the session rather than during it, with neuroplasticity allowing the brain to rewire itself for healing. Jill shared her thoughts on the stigma around psychedelics, recalling her initial skepticism as someone raised during the “Just Say No” era. She urged listeners to explore clinical trials and research from trusted organizations like MAPS and Johns Hopkins. Jill stressed that psychedelics aren’t a magic cure but a tool for transformation when paired with proper support, intention setting, and integration. The interview also touched on broader issues, like the FDA’s slow approval process for MDMA therapy and the need for a societal shift in how we approach mental health treatments. Jill believes public acceptance will grow as more companies invest in psychedelic research and education campaigns. Jill’s journey highlighted the power of journaling, intention setting, and personal accountability in recovery. She encouraged listeners to find integration practices that work for them, whether it’s walking, journaling, drawing, or music. She also shared tips for vetting guides or therapists, emphasizing the need for safety and trust in this deeply vulnerable work. The episode wrapped up with Jill addressing misconceptions about mental health, particularly the harmful idea that people should “just get over it.” Healing takes time, intention, and support—and psychedelics, when used responsibly, can be a game-changer for those ready to take the step.
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Thriving Beyond Sobriety: A Holistic Recovery Approach with Brian McAlister
Jan 7, 202501:31:59Tap to summarizeIf you’re ready to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace personal growth, or learn how to create a life worth living—whether you’re in recovery or simply seeking more fulfillment—this episode with Brian McAlister is for you. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/brian-mcalister In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, Brian McAlister, author of Full Recovery and founder of the Full Recovery Wellness Center, shared his inspiring journey from addiction to a fulfilling life rooted in holistic recovery. With humor, raw honesty, and practical advice, Brian walked us through the highs and lows of his transformation. Brian began by recounting his battle with addiction, which started at age 12 and led to a catastrophic motorcycle crash in the desert. That moment of clarity - literally at rock bottom - sparked his decision to change. Despite a four-year recovery to relearn how to walk, he admitted to falling back into his old habits before finally committing to sobriety on August 2, 1990. His recovery philosophy goes beyond quitting substances. He emphasizes the importance of building a fulfilling life - financial stability, meaningful relationships, and spiritual growth. For Brian, recovery isn’t just about not drinking; it’s about creating a life that makes sobriety worth it. Brian’s approach is practical and full of actionable advice. He advocates for replacing unhealthy distractions with goals that excite you and align with your purpose. He shared how asking better questions, like “Who’s getting the results I want?” helped him pivot from a minimum-wage job to leading a division with 10,000 employees. The conversation covered fear’s role in holding people back, whether it’s fear of failure, success, or change. Brian stressed the importance of confronting these fears and breaking down challenges into manageable steps. For example, he explained how addicts often fear success more than failure because they’re so used to falling short. He reframed the mindset by encouraging listeners to embrace small wins and use them to build momentum. Spirituality also played a critical role in Brian’s recovery. He discussed finding a higher power of his understanding, which opened the door to forgiveness - both of himself and others. For Brian, spirituality isn’t tied to any specific religion. It’s about connecting with something bigger than yourself to navigate life’s challenges. One of the most impactful parts of the episode was Brian’s emphasis on finding your purpose. He spoke about helping others uncover what excites them, using examples of people he’s worked with. From a Wall Street professional-turned-environmental advocate to a former prisoner who started a lawn care business, Brian showed how identifying your passions can transform your life. The interview wrapped up with a discussion about balance. Brian acknowledged that he still struggles with maintaining harmony between his career, personal life, and recovery. His advice? Regularly reassess your priorities and be honest about what’s working and what isn’t. Whether you’re battling addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply trying to live a more fulfilling life, Brian’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. His key message? Sobriety isn’t just about staying clean - it’s about building a life you’re proud of.
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Therapy Doesn't Have to be Boring with Jessica Medina (formerly Ehrman)
Dec 31, 202401:29:23Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever felt like therapy wasn’t for you or wondered how it could be more engaging and personalized, this episode is for anyone looking to reimagine mental health support with creativity and authenticity. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/jessica-medina In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, Jessica Ehrman, a registered associate marriage and family therapist, shares her journey into the mental health field and how she’s breaking the mold with innovative, engaging approaches to therapy. With a master’s degree from Pepperdine University and a passion for pop culture, Jessica focuses on making therapy a space where clients feel safe, seen and excited to grow. Jessica didn’t take a conventional route into mental health—her interest initially lay in forensic psychology, inspired by an early fascination with serial killers and cult leaders. However, life had other plans. A business course and a love for abnormal psychology shifted her focus, and her career path ultimately landed her in therapy, where she discovered how to weave her unique interests and creativity into her practice. Jessica’s therapeutic approach is anything but traditional. From integrating video games like Animal Crossing and Call of Duty to using pop culture references like Inside Out, Jessica ensures that her sessions resonate with clients of all ages. She emphasizes that therapy isn’t about “fixing” people or doling out advice; it’s about giving people the tools and space to navigate life’s challenges. “Therapy doesn’t have to be boring,” she says, and she proves it by creating a dynamic environment where clients can explore their emotions in ways that feel natural and relatable. One of the standout moments in the episode is Jessica’s story about a selectively mute child who found his voice through therapy sessions centered around Roblox. By meeting him in his comfort zone, Jessica helped him progress from nonverbal communication to confidently speaking 200 words per session. It’s stories like these that highlight the importance of creative and individualized therapy approaches. Jessica also shares her thoughts on the misconceptions surrounding therapy. Too often, people think of therapists as stone-faced, suit-clad figures who ask detached questions like, “How does that make you feel?” She’s here to break that stereotype. Jessica embraces her authentic self - brightly colored hair, tattoos, and a personality that’s as loud as it is compassionate - and encourages her clients to do the same. Throughout the conversation, Jessica touches on themes like the importance of building rapport, the power of play in therapy, and the challenges of telehealth. While teletherapy has its perks, like eliminating commutes, it can also bring unique obstacles, from tech issues to the struggle to maintain work-life boundaries. Still, Jessica adapts and thrives, finding ways to make meaningful connections even over video calls. The episode wraps up with Jessica offering valuable advice: therapy should be a place you look forward to, not dread. If you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist, it’s okay to find someone else who feels like a better fit. Jessica’s passion for her work and her commitment to helping clients rediscover their inner child and individuality shine throughout the episode, making it clear that therapy really doesn’t have to be boring - it can be a space of growth, healing and even fun.
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Healing Through Storytelling with Keeper Catran-Whitney
Dec 26, 202401:38:47Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever struggled with family trauma, felt silenced in your pain, or wondered how storytelling can help you heal and connect, this episode is for you. More info, resources & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/keeper-catran-whitney In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, Keeper Catran-Whitney shares his journey of healing through storytelling. Keeper, an author and speaker, discusses his book Helplessness: Emotional Health Challenges Brothers Experience, which dives into the unique emotional toll on brothers when they learn their sisters have been sexually abused. His story is both heartbreaking and empowering, shedding light on a perspective rarely addressed in conversations about trauma and healing. Keeper opens up about the pivotal moment when he decided to write his book after attending a Speak and Write conference. What started as an intention to write about his expertise in direct sales transformed into a raw and honest reckoning with his family’s painful history. Keeper shares how the creative process became a tool for confronting decades of unprocessed emotional trauma, self-doubt, and guilt. The conversation touches on how society often neglects the emotional health of men, leaving brothers like Keeper without the support systems needed to heal. He recounts the challenging journey of approaching his sisters for permission to tell their story, including asking them to contribute their voices to the book. Their willingness to participate marked a turning point in his healing process and allowed him to offer a fuller narrative to readers. Keeper also reflects on the broader power of storytelling, especially for marginalized communities. He shares how stepping into his truth not only helped him find peace but also empowered others to confront their own pain. As a father, he saw the positive ripple effects his vulnerability had on his children, who viewed him as an example of courage and resilience. Throughout the interview, Keeper emphasizes the importance of emotional health in the healing journey. He explains how accepting his trauma and sharing it openly were essential steps toward recovery. Despite being told by therapists that his unique experiences as a brother were outside their scope of expertise, he found healing through connection—with his family, himself, and others who resonated with his story. The conversation also explores Keeper’s personal interests, from his love of anime and fitness to his mantra, “Feel the fear and do it anyway.” He shares how physical exercise helps him process emotions and stay grounded. Additionally, he stresses the importance of asking for space to vent or connect with trusted individuals as a vital mental health tool. Keeper leaves listeners with a powerful message: healing requires recognizing trauma, embracing it as part of who we are, and finding ways to connect with others. His story is a testament to the transformative power of vulnerability, storytelling, and shared humanity.
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