Volume Control for Highly Sensitive Humans: Sobriety, Spirit Encounters, and the Skill of Not Reacting

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of suicidality and self-harm. We hold this conversation with care, but please listen in the way that best supports your nervous system and well-being.

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What happens when you get sober—and your intuition gets loud? In this powerful, funny, and deeply honest conversation, Jen Butler (author, screenwriter, actor, comedian, and creator of Volume Control) joins Sarah Rathke and Jane Morgan to talk about sobriety as a spiritual turning point, feeling psychically “wide open,” and learning energetic boundaries when you’re a highly sensitive person.

Jen shares her journey from numbing and atheism “lite,” to terrifying spirit experiences, to building real nervous-system safety and emotional regulation. You’ll hear practical tools for energetic clearing, why “don’t talk about it” can make fear worse, how to feel anger without labeling it “low vibration,” and a mind-blowing “future self” story that will stay with you. Plus: reincarnation signs, “effin' tea,” salt baths, sage, and the reality that being human is… a lot.

Takeaways

• Sobriety can turn the volume up—emotionally and psychically. When the numbing stops, your sensitivity may feel raw at first, but it can become a superpower with skills and support.

• Energetic boundaries aren’t just salt and sage. Tools can help, but the foundation is learning to feel safe in your body and regulate your nervous system.

• “We don’t talk about that” makes fear worse. Avoiding dark topics (spirits, depression, suicidality, “demons”) can amplify shame and isolation instead of helping you move through it.

• Meditation isn’t quieting your mind—it’s not reacting. The muscle is staying present while thoughts and feelings move through, and choosing not to spiral or act from alarm.

• Your past self deserves compassion—not criticism. Healing can look like “future you” showing up to hold “past you” through the worst moments.

• Highly sensitive people can build big lives. You might need more tools, more rest, and more honesty—but you don’t have to stay small.

“Being human’s a lot.” “It’s all about emotional regulation.”

Links Jen Butler’s Website: https://www.jenbutlersays.com/ Medium Curious: https://www.mediumcurious.com Jane: https://www.janemorganmedium.com Sarah: https://www.sarahrathke.com Jane’s new cohort, Source Studio: https://www.janemorganmedium.com/higher-calling Instagram: @mediumcuriouspod Substack: https://mediumcuriouspod.substack.com/

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Support Note: If you or someone you love is struggling or feeling unsafe, you don’t have to go through it alone. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, and confidential). If you’re outside the U.S., your local health services can help connect you to support in your country.