Pride Month, LGTBQ + Community, Lesbian Struggles, Invalidation, Religion, Stigma, Identity | EP 59

In Episode 66 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Eliza Foltz from Pretaa to share her powerful story. Eliza opens up about her experience with methadone maintenance, the challenges of slowly tapering off the medication, and her perspective on the recovery debate—what does "recovery" truly mean? She also delves into her personal struggles with DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services) and the impact it's had on her and her children. Tune in for an honest, raw conversation about the complexities of addiction, recovery, and navigating the system. FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma X | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 65 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with host of 'The Horror Virgin' podcast Todd Schlosser for an in-depth conversation on the complexities of creativity, imposter syndrome, and the struggles of living authentically. Todd opens up about the grief of losing his brother and how therapy played a crucial role in his healing journey. Also touching on the emotional weight of the upcoming 2024 election, diving into how societal pressures shape our mental health. Together, they explore how to embrace your creative self while tackling life's most personal challenge. Tune in for a raw, honest conversation that sheds light on the stigmas surrounding mental health, therapy, and the art of navigating life’s hardest moments. FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma X | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 64 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Nik Kellerman for an honest, open, and casual conversation about where they are right now in their mental health journey. They dive deep into the challenges of dealing with the loss and grief of a close friend, the role of spirituality in healing, and the ways they both cope with life’s ups and downs. They also discuss how much has changed from early recovery to now, navigating family dynamics, and more. Tune in for a heartfelt and insightful discussion that breaks down stigmas and sheds light on the complexities of mental health and recovery. FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma X | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 63 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Rick Glass, a Marine Corps veteran who shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism and finding healing through the use of medical marijuana. Rick opens up about his struggles with PTSD and how traditional treatments fell short, leading him to explore cannabis as a medicinal alternative. Now a passionate advocate, Rick aims to break the stigma surrounding the use of marijuana as medicine, especially for veterans and those battling mental health challenges. He also discusses his views on the over-prescription of medications by doctors and how medical marijuana has played a crucial role in his recovery from alcoholism. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that challenges misconceptions and offers a fresh perspective on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma X | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 62 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Ed Dannettel, the founder of the nonprofit "SoberLivin." Together, they explore the impactful work SoberLivin is doing to provide crucial resources to individuals new to recovery or seeking help. Ed shares the inspiring story behind the founding of SoberLivin, its mission, and the vital support it offers to the community. The conversation delves into Ed's personal journey with addiction, the pervasive stigma that often prevents people from seeking help, and the importance of forgiveness and self-compassion. Additionally, they discuss the ongoing addiction crisis in Baltimore, underscoring the urgent need for increased awareness and support. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that challenges stereotypes and offers hope and healing to those affected by addiction. Sober livin' Links : Website | https://www.soberlivin.org/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/soberlivinorg/ FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Google Podcast | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZWRmNTkyNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma TWITTER | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 61 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha sits down with Sami to explore the complexities of identity, race, and addiction. Sami shares her personal journey of navigating life as a biracial woman, owning her truth, and embracing her unique experiences. Laisha and Sami delve into the struggles of feeling out of place due to race, the importance of accepting who we are, and how they’ve both faced and fought against the stigmas surrounding race and addiction. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about breaking down labels, challenging societal norms, and finding strength in our stories. Tune in for an inspiring and honest discussion that encourages us all to embrace our identities and support each other on our paths to healing. SELF STIGMA VIDEO | https://youtu.be/75Lo4Pflv7Q FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Google Podcast | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZWRmNTkyNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma TWITTER | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 60 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez welcomes special guest Candy from the Baltimore Harm Reduction Coalition (BHRC). Candy shares the impactful mission of BHRC, which mobilizes community members for the health, dignity, and safety of people targeted by the racist war on drugs and anti-sex worker policies. Discover how BHRC advocates for harm reduction as part of a broader movement for social justice. Tune in to hear a compelling discussion on the controversy, discrimination, and stigma surrounding these critical issues. FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Google Podcast | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZWRmNTkyNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma TWITTER | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In Episode 59 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez welcomes special guest Gigi in honor of Pride Month. Gigi opens up about her experiences as a lesbian, shedding light on the stigmas and struggles she and many others face. Together, Laisha and Gigi delve into their personal experiences with coming out, religion, the invalidation from others, and much more. This episode is a powerful and candid exploration of the challenges within the LGBTQ+ community, aiming to break down barriers and foster understanding. Join us this month as we work to break the stigma and celebrate the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Google Podcast | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZWRmNTkyNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma TWITTER | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Join us in episode 58 of the "F the Stigma" podcast with host Laisha Martinez, featuring Tim Lodgen. A dynamic speaker and advocate for mental health and addiction recovery. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Tim shares his powerful journey of surviving 27 years of active addiction and his battle with bipolar disorder. He opens up about his struggles with medication and the denial of his issues, offering a raw and authentic perspective. As a veteran who faced immense challenges after leaving the military, Tim’s story is a beacon of hope for those grappling with similar struggles. This episode marks the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, aiming to provide support and encouragement to anyone in need. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation designed to uplift and inspire. FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Google Podcast | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZWRmNTkyNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #podcast FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma TWITTER | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Join us in episode 57 of the "F the Stigma" podcast with host Laisha Martinez, created in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, as she welcomes longtime friends Roman and Aidan for an in-depth discussion on the youth mental health and addiction crisis. Together, they tackle pressing issues such as the severe lack of mental health resources in schools, the urgent need for reform in treatment centers, and the daunting struggles faced by high school students dealing with mental health challenges and addiction. The conversation also sheds light on the alarming accessibility of drugs within the American school system, painting a comprehensive picture of the obstacles young people face today. Tune in for an eye-opening dialogue that aims to spark change and promote awareness. Episode Highlights | Intro - 0:00Addiction in High school - 3:58Our Future - 10:55Youth Addiction & Peer Pressure - 14:46Treatment - 22:57Regrets - 27:50 Reform - 29:31Mental Health Awareness Month / Lack of Resources in Colleges - 35:36 Dating in 2024 - 43:25 F The Stigma - 47:27 FTS PODCAST LINKS : Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224 Google Podcast | https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kZWRmNTkyNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… #fthestigma #fuckthestigma #fts FOLLOW F THE STIGMA: FTS WEBSITE | https://fthestigma.com/ INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma TWITTER | https://twitter.com/fuck_thestigma TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fck-the-stigma/id1691599224 SPOTIFY PODCAST | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE ! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma