Episodes
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Navigating late ADHD and Autism Diagnoses: Talking With Junaid Hussain | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 15
Join me on this episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast, as Junaid and I discuss dual diagnoses of Autism and ADHD. This episode provides valuable insights and highlights the importance of support systems.
Learn about effective tools like medication, therapy, and personal growth strategies, and gain inspiration from firsthand stories of overcoming struggles. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on mental health awareness and empowerment.
00:00 Introduction
03:53 Discussing Mental Health Stigmas
09:14 Junaid's Personal Struggles and Diagnosis
13:39 Impact of Marriage and Parenthood
18:07 Seeking Help and Diagnosis
28:02 Living with ADHD and Autism
32:07 Medication and Its Effects
46:18 Banter ;-)
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From Loss to Healing: Stephanie's Journey of Overcoming Mental Health Struggles | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 14
Join me on this episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast as I talk with Stephanie, a licensed marriage and family therapist from Florida.
Stephanie shares her experiences of dealing with personal mental health struggles, including anxiety, OCD, and an eating disorder, which stemmed from the traumatic loss of her father at a young age.
We discuss her journey from recognizing the need for help to seeking therapy and eventually turning her personal experiences into a professional calling as a therapist. Stephanie dives into the importance of self-help, family support, and telehealth in accessing mental health care.
00:00 Introduction
05:08 Stephanie's Mental Health Journey
09:15 The Turning Point and Recovery
16:10 Moving to Los Angeles and Continued Growth
21:54 Therapeutic Work and Overcoming Challenges
27:47 Challenges in Accessing Care
29:53 Journey to Becoming a Therapist
31:26 The Impact of Specialized Education
41:46 Advice for Those Struggling
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Episodes manquant?
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Overcoming Infertility and Embracing Self-Love | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 24
Welcome to another episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Kathy Mou, who shares her emotional journey through infertility, mental health challenges, and the transformative power of self-love.
Kathy opens up about her two-year struggle with endometriosis and the rollercoaster of emotions she faced, including depression and the pressures of cultural expectations.
She discusses the significance of self-care, setting boundaries, meditation, gratitude, and healthy eating in her recovery. Tune in as Kathy shares how these practices not only helped her overcome her struggles but also paved the way to becoming a more resilient and empowered individual, enabling her to help others as an empowerment coach.
00:00 Introduction
05:12 Mental Health and Infertility Struggles
10:30 Understanding Endometriosis
18:18 Coping Mechanisms and Self-Love
21:50 Facing the Pain: Setting Boundaries
22:41 Empowerment Through Self-Care
26:03 The Power of Meditation
29:05 Practicing Gratitude
35:30 Embracing Parenthood
41:02 Wrapping up
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Finding Happiness Through Humor: Mike Cundall's Journey with Depression | Tracking Happiness Podcast
In this episode of the Tracking Happiness podcast, I talk with Mike Cundall about his experience with mental health struggles, specifically dealing with depression. Mike discusses his diagnosis, treatments, and how he learned to manage his depression.
We delve into the effects of medications, the role of humor in coping with depression, and Mike's philosophical insights as a professor.
00:00 Introduction
03:31 Transition to Mental Health Discussion
03:54 Mike's Journey with Depression
04:17 Medication and Its Effects
08:39 Alternative Approaches to Managing Depression
10:40 Challenges and Acceptance
17:16 Philosophy and Personal Struggles
20:59 The Interdisciplinary Nature of Humor Studies
23:36 The Role of Humor in Chronic Illness and Caregiving
32:16 The Power of Humor in High-Stress Situations
40:24 Humor in Religion and Cultural Traditions
41:51 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice
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Overcoming Adversity and Finding Happiness with Stephanie Shanks | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 11
Welcome to Episode 11 of the Tracking Happiness Podcast! In this episode, I talk with Stephanie Shanks about her journey from growing up on a farm in Wisconsin and struggling with mental health, to finding happiness and establishing her own photography business.
Stephanie dives into the challenges of being a young mother, dealing with trauma, overcoming two difficult marriages, and how she ultimately found happiness by taking time for herself and rediscovering her passions.
It's extremely inspiring and authentic...
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, mental health, and the importance of self-discovery.
00:00 Introduction and chit chat about farms, dogs and pancakes
09:08 Personal Journeys and Struggles
12:21 Overcoming Adversity
18:38 Realization and Turning Point
24:32 Sunny California Memories
24:50 A Time for Self-Reflection
26:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery
30:03 Returning Home and Starting Over
31:22 Empowering Changes and New Beginnings
32:35 The Importance of Authenticity
40:47 Challenges of Running a Business
43:39 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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From Struggle to Social Work: Sarah Rollins' Journey | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 10
Welcome to the tenth episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Rollins, a social worker from Metro Detroit.
Sarah opens up about her early struggle with an eating disorder during middle school and high school, her transformative experience in a residential treatment program, and how it influenced her career path. We delve into the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and Sarah's journey toward recovery and becoming a therapist herself.
Join us for an insightful conversation on overcoming mental health struggles and finding purpose.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:44 Sarah's Background and Role as a Social Worker
06:06 Early Signs and Struggles with Eating Disorders
11:15 Realization and Seeking Help
18:21 Residential Treatment Experience
19:12 Reflecting on the Best Experience
19:33 Community and Recovery
20:50 Challenges and Adjustments
22:45 Dealing with Stigma
27:18 Reintegration and Continued Therapy
33:14 The Role of Personal Experience in Social Work
36:45 Final Thoughts and Advice
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Nika Kabiri on Decision Science, Mental Health, and Finding Happiness | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 9
In the ninth episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast, I am joined by Nika Kabiri, a decision scientist and consultant, to discuss her journey through mental health struggles, including severe depression and suicidal ideation.
Nika shares her insights on how understanding the science of decision-making and behavioral economics helped her transform her life.
We also explore the influence of nature, healthy habits, and the power of making informed choices. Tune in to hear Nika's inspiring story of overcoming adversity and finding ultimate happiness.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
03:50 Nika's Professional Background
05:54 Mental Health Struggles
08:46 Therapy and Its Challenges
18:57 Discovering Sociology and Decision Science
23:27 Understanding Behavioral Economics
25:09 The Efficiency of the Human Brain
25:49 Survival Instincts and Modern Challenges
26:39 Behavioral Economics and Mental Health
28:32 Rational Choices and Emotional Struggles
30:21 The Power of Changing Circumstances
34:47 Personal Stories of Career Change
37:26 Starting the Tracking Happiness Blog
44:28 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
45:26 Advice for Dealing with Depression
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Rebecca's Journey from Binge Eating to Self-Compassion | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 8
In the eighth episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast, I speak with Rebecca Doring, a meditation teacher, yoga instructor, and life coach.
Rebecca shares her journey of overcoming binge eating and self-loathing, highlighting the role of self-compassion and curiosity in her recovery.
Living in a log cabin in Connecticut, Rebecca discusses how the natural surroundings and her tools such as journaling and meditation helped her diagnose and address her emotional struggles.
This episode dives into the importance of mental health awareness and strategies to foster self-compassion and resilience.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:18 Rebecca's Background and Early Connection
01:56 Life in a Log Cabin
05:40 Mental Health and Binge Eating
11:53 Curiosity and Compassion as Tools
19:48 Understanding the Power of Journaling
20:35 Living Life on Autopilot
21:21 Questioning Negative Self-Stories
23:54 Compassion and Self-Acceptance
26:53 Overcoming Binge Eating and Digestive Issues
29:17 The Role of Brain Plasticity
30:37 Rebecca's Coaching and Meditation Programs
32:56 Gender Differences in Eating Disorders
37:01 Final Thoughts and Wisdom
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Dayna Altman's Journey of Resilience and Entrepreneurship | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 7
In the seventh episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast, I meet Dayna Altman, a mental health speaker, author, and entrepreneur from Boston, Massachusetts.
Dayna shares her compelling journey through overcoming mental health challenges, including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and an eating disorder. She talks about how her own struggles inspired her to pivot from a career in social work to sharing her story on a macro level, aiming to inspire others.
She also discusses her innovative project, 'Bake It Till You Make It,' which uses baking to initiate conversations about mental health.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:14 Meet Dana Altman
00:53 Dana's Background and Career
02:54 Struggles During College
04:17 The Turning Point: Seeking Help
07:24 Therapy and Recovery Journey
13:52 The Importance of Vulnerability
18:07 The Importance of Mental Health
19:03 Meeting My Therapist
21:18 The Journey Through Therapy
22:29 Discovering DBT and OCD
26:55 The Birth of Bake It Till You Make It
31:38 Sharing My Story and Helping Others
35:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections
37:03 Wrapping Up and Contact Information
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From Chaos to Clarity: Overcoming a Toxic Family Past with Susan Gold
Welcome to another powerful episode of the Tracking Happiness podcast! In this episode, Hugo sits down with Susan Gold, who shares her inspiring journey from a chaotic childhood in central Pennsylvania to a fulfilling life in rural Montana.
Susan opens up about her struggles with mental health, addiction, and overcoming a toxic family environment.
Learn how she found her inner strength, embraced authentic happiness, and now helps others break free from toxic loops.
For more details, visit SusanGold.us and check out her book 'Toxic Family'.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
03:14 Susan's Chaotic Childhood
06:14 Early Adulthood and Career Beginnings
09:50 Struggles and Turning Points
12:56 Reflections and Personal Growth
17:36 Facing Abandonment and Embracing Vulnerability
18:36 The Journey to Self-Acceptance
20:17 Overcoming Physical and Emotional Challenges
23:03 Finding Inner Peace and Slowing Down
27:07 The Role of Spirituality and Empathy
31:39 Living with Purpose and Helping Others
33:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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Overcoming Anxiety And OCD With Kyle Elliott | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 5
In this episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast, I sit down with Kyle Elliott, a career coach specializing in tech executives, to discuss his inspiring journey of overcoming mental health challenges.
Kyle opens up about his struggles with OCD and anxiety, his five-year battle with chronic migraines, and how a two-minute diagnosis changed his life. He shares the four pillars that help him manage his mental health: medication, therapy, self-care, and community, along with his love for Disneyland as a meaningful part of his self-care routine.
Throughout the conversation, we discuss the stigma surrounding mental health, the importance of storytelling in mental health recovery, and tips for finding joy beyond work for those struggling with work addiction.
Tune in for an insightful and uplifting discussion about navigating mental health challenges and finding happiness.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
01:23 Meet Kyle Elliott: Career Coach and Disney Enthusiast
03:31 Kyle's Journey with Mental Health
06:34 The Diagnosis and Treatment Journey
12:33 Living with Anxiety and OCD
15:17 Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help
19:26 Kyle's Personal Experiences with OCD
21:01 Understanding Anxiety and OCD
22:21 The Role of Disney in Self-Improvement
25:51 Navigating Therapy and Finding the Right Therapist
28:50 The Importance of Community
31:05 Career Coaching and Mental Health
35:51 Overcoming Work Addiction
37:27 Finding Joy Outside of Work
39:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Breaking Free from Diet Culture with Alana Van Der Sluis | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 4
Welcome to another episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Alana Vander Sluis, a certified intuitive eating counselor, to discuss overcoming negative relationships with food and diet culture.
Alana shares her personal journey of battling with diet culture, binge eating, and how she found solace in intuitive eating. Despite societal pressures and media influence, Alana's transformative experience has driven her to help others achieve freedom with food and fitness. Tune in for insights on intuitive eating, the pitfalls of dieting, and practical steps toward a healthier, happier life.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:28 Discussing Dutch Origins and Podcast Experience
02:02 Alana's Background and Intuitive Eating
03:20 Struggles with Diet Culture
04:57 Journey to Intuitive Eating
11:51 Benefits and Science of Intuitive Eating
19:30 Alana's Current Work and Advice
27:56 Conclusion and Outro
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Overcoming Seizures and Finding Purpose: Emily Guerra's Journey | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 2Welcome to another episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Emily Guerra. Emily shares her journey from dealing with childhood trauma and divorce, to experiencing rare trauma-induced seizures, and eventually overcoming anorexia. She discusses how her challenging experiences motivated her to become a certified productivity life coach, focusing on empowering self-employed women. Emily talks about the crucial role of mindset and productivity systems in achieving personal and professional success. From her struggles and eventual triumphs during the COVID-19 pandemic to creating her business 'Productivity Flow,' Emily's story is one of resilience, growth, and finding purpose. Tune in for an encouraging discussion on mental health, productivity, and the power of shifting your mindset.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:57 Emily Guerra's Background and Work03:00 Living in Los Angeles04:48 Emily's Mental Health Journey07:54 Overcoming Seizures and Anorexia15:33 Impact of COVID-1919:18 Remote Therapy Sessions in Chicago19:32 A Pivotal Moment: Taking Control of Life20:02 Freelancing and Moving Back to LA22:40 Starting a Coaching Business26:53 The Science Behind Mindset and Productivity30:23 Advice for Those Feeling Stuck34:13 Understanding Neuroplasticity37:31 Final Thoughts and Farewell
She struggled with:
Anxiety
Childhood
Epilepsy
Stress
And she was helped by:
Self-Care
Self-improvement
Therapy
You can read more about Emily on her website here, more of what she has to share on her blog here. And here is where you can schedule a free chat to see if coaching with Emily will be the right fit, or shoot her an email.About the Tracking Happiness Podcast:
Hugo Huijer (thatâs me!) hosts the Tracking Happiness Podcast, an engaging show about destigmatizing struggles of mental health. It turns out that most people have experienced a struggle at some point in their lives.
For some, itâs a struggle they try to hide from others, whereas others face more visible struggles. Either way, these struggles often have a serious impact on our lives.
Unfortunately, Iâve learned that these struggles are often faced alone. Sometimes, we have no one to share these struggles with. But more often than not, we simply choose not to talk about them because we donât want people to think less of us.
This podcast aims to change that. Thereâs power in talking and listening to others about their struggles.
Stress, panic attacks, traumatic brain injury, postpartum depression, cPTSD or paranoia: No matter what your story is, I want to talk to people because it helps others find community and strength.
Come and join me on this journey. Subscribe and like our podcast and help me spread these inspiring stories to others.
Want to share your own story? Head over to â â https://www.trackinghappiness.com/share-your-story/â â
Find me on these platforms:
Website: â â https://www.trackinghappiness.comâ â
Instagram: â â https://instagram.com/trackinghappinessnow/
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Overcoming Depression and Burnout: Amanda Haro's Journey | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 2
In this episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast, we sit down with Amanda Haro, a burnout and confidence coach for moms, as she shares her life experiences, including battles with depression, moving across the country, and personal transformations.
Amanda provides insight into her struggles with mental health, starting from her teenage years with Guillain-Barre syndrome to coping with isolation and depression as a young mother in Wisconsin. She also discusses the importance of journaling and seeking therapy, as well as working through trauma and grief. Amanda offers a raw and inspiring look at how resilience and self-awareness can lead to healing and empowerment.
She struggled with:
Depression
Divorce
Grief
And she was helped by:
Medication
Self-Care
Self-improvement
TherapyYou can read more about Amanda on â Instagramâ â , â â Facebookâ â , and â â YouTubeâ â . My podcast, â â F*ck It Motheringâ â , can be found anywhere you get your podcasts.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:12 Meet Amanda: From California to Wisconsin
01:13 Weather Talk and Podcast Experience
04:06 Amanda's Journey: From California to Wisconsin
06:14 Mental Health Struggles Begin
09:22 Depression and Survival Mode
19:50 The Role of Journaling
21:25 Recent Struggles and Financial Hardships
22:22 Family Business and Early Career
23:11 Loss and Grief During the Pandemic
24:34 Struggles with Depression
25:52 Seeking Help and Medication
30:12 Embracing Depression and Self-Care
37:43 The Power of Journaling
41:45 Life Coaching and Personal Growth
44:54 Conclusion and Contact Information
About the Tracking Happiness Podcast:
Hugo Huijer (thatâs me!) hosts the Tracking Happiness Podcast, an engaging show about destigmatizing struggles of mental health. It turns out that most people have experienced a struggle at some point in their lives.
For some, itâs a struggle they try to hide from others, whereas others face more visible struggles. Either way, these struggles often have a serious impact on our lives.
Unfortunately, Iâve learned that these struggles are often faced alone. Sometimes, we have no one to share these struggles with. But more often than not, we simply choose not to talk about them because we donât want people to think less of us.
This podcast aims to change that. Thereâs power in talking and listening to others about their struggles.
Stress, panic attacks, traumatic brain injury, postpartum depression, cPTSD or paranoia: No matter what your story is, I want to talk to people because it helps others find community and strength.
Come and join me on this journey. Subscribe and like our podcast and help me spread these inspiring stories to others.
Want to share your own story? Head over to
â https://www.trackinghappiness.com/share-your-story/âFind me on these platforms:
Website: â https://www.trackinghappiness.comâ Instagram: â https://instagram.com/trackinghappinessnow/ -
From Tragedy to Triumph: Andy Johnson's Journey to Healing | Tracking Happiness Podcast Ep. 1
Welcome to the first episode of the Tracking Happiness Podcast! I sit down with Andy Johnson, who shares his incredible journey of resilience and recovery following a devastating accident.
Andy, originally from South Korea and adopted by a family in Wisconsin, recounts how a life-altering accident led him to pursue psychology over music. Despite facing physical and cognitive challenges, Andy's determination and support system helped him overcome immense obstacles. He opens up about forgiving both himself and the driver, and how his experiences shaped his career as a therapist. Tune in for an inspiring story of growth, forgiveness, and finding purpose.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:04 Meet Andy Johnson
02:47 The Life-Changing Accident
05:16 Recovery and Rehabilitation
12:16 Forgiveness and Moving Forward
18:29 Becoming a Therapist
26:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
He struggled with:
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Physical trauma
Suicidal
Traumatic Brain Injury
And he was helped by:
Medication
Religion
Self-improvement
Therapy
About the Tracking Happiness Podcast:
Hugo Huijer (thatâs me!) hosts the Tracking Happiness Podcast, an engaging show about destigmatizing struggles of mental health. It turns out that most people have experienced a struggle at some point in their lives.
For some, itâs a struggle they try to hide from others, whereas others face more visible struggles. Either way, these struggles often have a serious impact on our lives.
Unfortunately, Iâve learned that these struggles are often faced alone. Sometimes, we have no one to share these struggles with. But more often than not, we simply choose not to talk about them because we donât want people to think less of us.
This podcast aims to change that. Thereâs power in talking and listening to others about their struggles.
Stress, panic attacks, traumatic brain injury, postpartum depression, cPTSD or paranoia: No matter what your story is, I want to talk to people because it helps others find community and strength.
Come and join me on this journey. Subscribe and like our podcast and help me spread these inspiring stories to others.
Want to share your own story? Head over to
â https://www.trackinghappiness.com/share-your-story/âFind me on these platforms:
Website: â https://www.trackinghappiness.comâ Instagram: â https://instagram.com/trackinghappinessnow/
