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

In Episode 70 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Jasper, a trans man, to share his deeply personal journey. Jasper opens up about his identity and the challenges he has faced, delving into the effects of the current political climate on the queer and trans community. He reflects on the influence of religion in his life, the complexities of coming out, and his journey toward feeling comfortable in his own body. Jasper also shares his perspective on how society perceives him and the resilience it takes to navigate these experiences. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to authenticity and strength, shining a light on the unique challenges and triumphs of being trans in today’s world. Don’t miss this insightful episode as we continue breaking stigmas and sharing stories that matter. Episode Highlights | 0:00 - Intro 00:48 - How Jasper Identifies 1:35 - What does Gender Fluidity mean? 4:01 - Gender Norms 7:23 - How Jasper felt within his body vs. now 8:01 - Queerness being exposed to kids 13:12 - When Jasper started to question his gender 20:00 - Religion 24:11 - Today’s political climate 28:09 - What’s is love? 35:42 - Coming out 37:56 - How Jasper feels in his body today 42:42 - Being perceived in society FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance Donate 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 69 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Layne to dive deep into her personal journey navigating the challenges of OCD, the impact of COVID-19 on her mental health, and her path to overcoming an eating disorder. Layne shares candidly about how her need for control influenced her struggles and how she’s found ways to heal and thrive. Join us for this heartfelt conversation as we break down the stigmas surrounding mental health and eating disorders, while gaining insights into resilience, self-awareness, and recovery. Episode Highlights | 1:10 - Layne being diagnosed with OCD 2:41 - Covid’s Affect on Layne’s Mental Health 6:49 - How she got diagnosed & Rituals 16:43 - What is OCD treatment like? 20:26 - What does your OCD look like today? 22:37 - Did people struggle with anxiety just as much back then as we do now? 26:20 - Back to OCD today 31:19 - Layne’s Experience with an Eating Disorder 35:14 - Eating Disorder Treatment process & Grasping Control 39:08 - Medications 40:50 - Timeframe & Layne’s feelings about it 45:18 - Layne’s relationship with food today 51:06 - What would you say to someone struggling ? FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance Donate 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 68 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Indiyah who shares her personal story of losing her brother to an overdose. She talks about the stigma and shame she faced in the aftermath, how she’s navigated her grief, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Indiyah also offers valuable insights on how we can better support people dealing with addiction and their families. It’s an honest and important conversation about loss, resilience, and showing up for one another. FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance Donate 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 66 of the "Fuck the Stigma" podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Caitlin, a Baltimore local, to discuss her journey with mental health and the stigma that comes with it. Caitlin shares her deeply personal experience with bipolar disorder, opening up about her first bipolar episode and the challenges that followed. Together, they explore the stigma around addiction, the impact it has had on Caitlin’s life, and her ongoing journey toward healing and self-acceptance.They also dive into the complex and often controversial topic of gender identity. Caitlin shares her perspective and experiences with gender, adding to an open, honest conversation about identity, mental health, and the importance of self-discovery. This episode is a heartfelt and unfiltered look at living authentically in the face of stigma, as Caitlin and Laisha strive to break down barriers and offer support to those on similar paths. FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance Donate 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 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