That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding Podcast Por That Hoarder arte de portada

That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

De: That Hoarder
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Hoarding disorder is stigmatised and people who hoard feel vast amounts of shame. This podcast began life as an audio diary, an anonymous outlet for somebody with this weird condition. That Hoarder speaks about her experiences living with compulsive hoarding, she interviews therapists, academics, researchers, children of hoarders, professional organisers and influencers, and she shares insight and tips for others with the problem. Listened to by people who hoard as well as those who love them and those who work with them, Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder aims to shatter the stigma, share the truth and speak openly and honestly to improve lives.© 2023 Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with @ThatHoarder Higiene y Vida Saludable Psicología Psicología y Salud Mental
Episodios
  • #206 Finding connection and community when hoarding feels isolating

    #206 Finding connection and community when hoarding feels isolating
    Nov 28 2025
    Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ Hoarding disorder can feel deeply isolating, and finding genuine connection isn’t always straightforward. In this episode, I talk about building community - both through hoarding-specific peer groups, online spaces, as well as simply nurturing friendships outside the home. I share practical ways to reconnect, set boundaries, and remind yourself that you deserve care and companionship, whatever your home looks like. The Relationship Between Hoarding and IsolationHow hoarding and isolation often accompany each otherFeelings of shame and concern about being misunderstoodSecrecy around hoarding, even from friendsImpact of loneliness on motivation and self-worthThe fundamental human need for connectionFinding Community: Hoarding-Specific SupportBenefits of speaking with others who “get” hoardingRelief and authenticity in hoarding-focused communitiesMisunderstandings and stigma around hoarding in general societyShared language and understanding in dedicated groupsTypes of Hoarding CommunitiesPeer support groups (both for people who hoard and for their loved ones)Differences between in-person and online groupsDehoarding accountability Zoom groups run by the hostTherapy groups led by professionalsOnline forums, social media groups, and subredditsChoosing a Support Group and Overcoming BarriersThe process of finding the right group for your needsNot all groups will fit; trial and error is normalCommon barriers: fear of judgment, privacy concerns, and feeling overwhelmedExploring online versus in-person options based on comfort and accessManaging triggers and emotional challenges when joining a groupBroadening Community Beyond HoardingImportance of connection outside of the hoarding contextHow hoarding can lead to progressive social isolationWays to set boundaries while still building relationshipsAlternative Sources of Community & ConnectionJoining hobby or interest-based groups (gardening, book clubs, crafts, etc.)Attending classes and workshops (in-person or online)Volunteering for shared causes and the benefits it offersEngaging in outdoor activity groups for physical and mental healthInvolvement in faith communities (acknowledging varied experiences)Nurturing and Rekindling FriendshipsThe value of maintaining and nurturing friendshipsStrategies for reconnecting with old friends (acknowledging awkwardness)Personal anecdotes demonstrating successful reconnectionMaintaining and Deepening Existing FriendshipsCreative ways of keeping in touch (memes, postcards, regular outings)Showing care and interest without inviting people into your homeImportance of honesty about personal limitationsNavigating difficult moments with friends through gentle outreachBuilding New FriendshipsThe importance of patience and consistent small effortsTransitioning from casual acquaintance to meaningful connectionReciprocity and mutual engagement as key to growing relationshipsNatural pace of friendship developmentThe Value of Self-CompassionBeing a good friend to yourself while seeking social connectionsAvoiding self-blame and catastrophic thinkingRecognising your own worth despite challenges related to hoardingTaking Small Steps Toward ConnectionEncouragement to take actionable, manageable steps to build communityCelebrating small efforts toward greater connectionRealistic expectations about gradual progressSuggestions for relevant previous podcast episodes on loneliness, accountability, and community Links Podcast ep 200: Things I wish I’d known: a letter to Episode One MePodcast ep 130: Loneliness and hoarding with Vassia Sarantopoulou: build human connections and combat hoarding-related shamePodcast ep 138: The Accountability Effect: Accountability, encouragement and mutual support when tackling hoarding and dehoardingCome to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking FormWebsite: Overcome Compulsive HoardingBecome a Dehoarding DarlingSubmit a topic for the podcast to coverQuestions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestionsInstagram: @thathoarderpodcastTwitter: @ThatHoarderMastodon: @ThatHoarder@mastodon.onlineTikTok: @thathoarderpodcastFacebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderPinterest: That HoarderYouTube: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderReddit: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder subredditHelp out: Support this projectSponsor the podcast Subscribe to the podcast Subscribe to the podcast here
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    1 h y 4 m
  • #205 How to recover without burning out: using pacing to find your dehoarding rhythm

    #205 How to recover without burning out: using pacing to find your dehoarding rhythm
    Nov 22 2025
    Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ Getting on top of hoarding disorder isn’t about powering through in one big go. It’s all about slowing down, pacing ourselves, and making sure our approach is actually sustainable, both for our bodies and our minds. In this episode, I talk honestly about the risks of burnout and emotional overload when we try to rush the process, and why giving ourselves permission to work in small, manageable steps is key. I’ll share practical ways to set our own pace, spot the warning signs of pushing too hard, and celebrate the progress we make - even when it’s slower than we’d like. The Nature of Recovery from Hoarding DisorderRecovery isn’t a race or a sprintPressure to fix things quickly—internal and externalDebunking the ‘quick fix’ mythImportance of sustainability in recoveryPhysical Aspects of DehoardingPhysical tasks: sorting, organising, donating, recyclingThe relentless and exhausting nature of physical dehoardingRisks of pushing too hard:Physical exhaustion and injuryImpact of chronic pain, health problems, disabilityDecision-making fatigue from exhaustionThe danger of creating a more overwhelming messRisks of BurnoutBurnout as a consequence of overexertionEmotional impact: quitting, avoidance, dreadDehoarding becomes associated with pain and sufferingEmotional Aspects of PacingUnique emotional relationships with possessionsAssociations, memories, grief, nostalgia, identityAnxiety and emotional flooding in decision-makingThe consequences of pushing past emotional limits:Panic, anxiety, ruminationAvoidance and procrastinationLoss of confidence in decisionsSwinging between extremes: keeping everything vs. discarding everythingThe Impact of Emotional FloodingDamaging relationship with recoveryRecovery viewed as painful or traumaticUnrealistic expectations for overnight emotional changePersistence of difficult emotional patterns despite progressNon-Linear Nature of ProgressUnderstanding setbacks and relapses as part of the processImportance of patience and realistic expectationsThe need to build new emotional and cognitive pathways over timePositive Signs of Emotional ProgressAbility to sit with discomfort and uncertaintyRecognising and managing patterns and triggersGradual increase in resilience and emotional toleranceRecognising Gradual Physical and Emotional RecoveryImproved recovery time after difficult sessionsGrowing confidence in handling challengesLearning that healing and progress are not linearPractical Approaches to PacingTime-based strategies:Working in manageable time chunksScheduling regular breaks and days offFocusing on sustainable, consistent sessions over marathonsDecision-based strategies:Limiting the number of decisions per sessionIdentifying easier vs. harder tasks or categoriesQuick wins to boost motivationChecking in with oneself physically and emotionally during workBuilding in soothing or rewarding activities post-sessionSigns of Sustainable PacingCompleting sessions feeling tired but not destroyedFeeling able to return for future sessions without dreadMaking decisions that feel good in retrospectEnjoyment and pride in gradually improving one’s spaceAdapting Pace to Life CircumstancesPace varies with health, mood, season, responsibilitiesFinding what works for the individual and the current season of lifeCompassionate RecoveryThe importance of self-compassion in setting and respecting limitsCelebrating progress and honouring our human experience Links Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking FormWebsite: Overcome Compulsive HoardingBecome a Dehoarding DarlingSubmit a topic for the podcast to coverQuestions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestionsInstagram: @thathoarderpodcastTwitter: @ThatHoarderMastodon: @ThatHoarder@mastodon.onlineTikTok: @thathoarderpodcastFacebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderPinterest: That HoarderYouTube: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderReddit: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder subredditHelp out: Support this projectSponsor the podcast Subscribe to the podcast Subscribe to the podcast here
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    39 m
  • #204 Am I my things? When possessions define us: the psychological connection between identity, self-concept and hoarding with Dr Jan Eppingstall

    #204 Am I my things? When possessions define us: the psychological connection between identity, self-concept and hoarding with Dr Jan Eppingstall
    Nov 14 2025
    Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ On this episode, I’m joined by Dr Jan Eppingstall to unpack how our possessions connect with our sense of identity and self-concept, and why letting go can feel so threatening for those of us who hoard. We talk through how objects hold meaning, memories, and dreams for the future, and what it looks like to build a stronger sense of self without clinging to things. If you’ve ever felt like discarding something meant losing a part of yourself, you definitely want to listen to this one. We break down exactly why that fear happens and where to start. A plant pot associated with negative experiences.Discussion of emotional and aesthetic reasons for keeping vs. discarding.Objects “glowering" at us.Identity and Self-Concept in HoardingDefinition of identity and self-concept.Possessions and Sense of IdentityThe psychological process of possessions intertwining with identity.How this differs from typical sentimental attachment.Retention itself (rather than use or display) as a meaning-making act in hoarding.The difference between identity (roles, characteristics, life story) and self-concept (beliefs about self, worth, and abilities).Typical patterns seen in people with hoarding disorder: fragmented identity, externalised identity via objects.Psychological Fusion Between Identity and PossessionsThe concept of "identity objects" — how discarding items feels like losing part of oneself.Objects as external proof and storage for identity, memory, and meaning.Safety of objects over human relationships.The cycle of validation and shame in hoarding.Pathways to Possession-Identity FusionChildhood experiences and boundary violations leading to control needs.Identity confusion and external markers for self-definition.Psychological ownership: objects as self-extension.Functions of retained objects—proof of past, present, and future self.Anthropomorphism and obligations to objects.Executive function challenges: objects as external memory aids.Perfectionism and fantasy identity protection.Influence of cultural materialism and marketing.The Fear of Losing Identity When Discarding Objects"Throwing away part of myself."Three psychological routes for ownership: control, intimate knowledge, and personal investment.The role of control and avoidance of uncertainty.The painful admission of poor judgment (e.g., unworn clothing) when discarding.Possessions as Identity MarkersRetaining items from past roles (retired teachers, old job materials).Holding onto objects representing hopes for future identity.Objects as evidence for important life chapters, relationships, or personal history.Psychological needs these objects serve and when that becomes problematic.Books as Proof of Intellectual IdentityDiscussion of books held as evidence of being intellectual, regardless of actual reading.Exploration of how objects can become substitutes for action and risk.Therapeutic approach to shifting identity building from possession to action.Community and Connection in the Hoarding JourneyThe loneliness and isolation frequently felt by people who hoard.The importance of community, connection, and peer support, including podcast listeners and accountability sessions.Effects of increased openness and connection on identity.Identity Shifts During Dehoarding and RecoveryChanges in identity during the process of recovery and letting go.Building new narratives — sometimes research or recovery itself becomes an identity.Increased connection and belonging through shared experience and vulnerability.Maintaining Identity Without Excessive PossessionStrategies for building identity through actions, creativity, and lived experience.Selecting representative or truly meaningful items rather than keeping everything.Observing how "non-hoarding" individuals make decisions about sentimental items.Discomfort and growth opportunities in sharing one's journey while still in progress.The value of authenticity and vulnerability.First Steps for Listeners Fearing Loss of Self Through DiscardingAcknowledging that fear is rational and understandable.Suggesting mindful observation of attachment thoughts.Testing beliefs by gentle action, e.g., creative tasks with what is already available.Finding supportive people for accountability and encouragement.Reflective work on personal values — building identity from the inside.Reassurance that identity predates possessions and is not dependent on them.Objects as scaffolding rather than the core of one’s identity.Encouragement to trust oneself and to start building stability from within. Links Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking FormDr Jan Eppingstall at Stuffologyhttps://www.facebook.com/stuffologyconsulting/https://...
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    1 h y 21 m
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My partner of 5 years left me, partly because of my hoarding and partly for other ptsd and ocd related difficulties. I fell into a pit of despair and shame and felt so alone. It catalyzed my taking in the hoard. It’s been deeply disheartening, alienating, and just so heavy. I found this podcast and for the first time in my struggle I feel so seen ❤️‍🩹 she has such a deep self awareness and brought to my art the weight of the emotional and psychological aspects of hoarding. I’ve made so much progress and when I get stuck or my roommate launches me into a downward spiral of negative self talk by refusing to see the progress I go to this podcast.

I’m almost at the point of self acceptance that I’m considering speaking out about it on social media and extending my hand to anyone else in my community who fights this secret battle. It’s been so hard to feel like I can’t talk to anyone about it or ask for help and if I ever get through this I want so badly to help others as this woman has helped me.

Could not do this alone

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This is such a fantastic podcast. I appreciate the compassion, humor, reflection, the topics and proactive outlook. The presentation is so well organized and so helpful. It's just so refreshing to hear representation by someone who experiences the disorder rather than being the passive subject of others scrutiny and analysis. This podcast is exactly the kind of dialogue that is needed to destigmatize hoarding disorder.

Informative, compassionate, and proactive.

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It is better to do this together. My biggest issue is giving away things that has something to do with my kids. My thinking: ‘I think maybe my sister could use this with her kids if she will ever have any down the road…oh I love this my son played so much with this!’ Or ‘ I could sell this.. this was so expensive!!’….just sad!.. I need you… Thank you!

Enjoying your podcast very much.

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