In this episode of Real Life Unplugged, Katherine sits down with Elena, a Master level dietetic student preparing to become a registered dietitian, to discuss their studies around mood and food. Together, they discuss the gut-brain axis, neurotransmitters, chronic stress, inflammation, and how blood sugar regulation can impact mental health, all through a compassionate, trauma-informed lens.

This conversation gently unpacks common misinformation and offers practical, realistic ways to support your mental health through nourishment without guilt, shame, or rigid rules.

This episode is educational and not a replacement for therapy or medical care.

Resources available in the show notes below. 💛

• For PDF Resources (Bingo Card, Journal Prompts) provided by Elena: Real Life Unplugged Podcast | Integrated Wellbeing
• To Connect with Elena (LinkedIn): Elena Engelke | LinkedIn
• To View Elena's Mood and Food Blog: (Link Coming Soon!)

Help Elena Gain Further Information for Her Studies!

• Mood and Food Podcast Episode Knowledge Check: Pre-Podcast
• Mood and Food Podcast Episode Knowledge Check: Post-Podcast

Connect with Integrated Wellbeing Consulting and Coaching at www.integratedwellbeingconsulting.org!

In this solo episode, Katherine explores why relationships can feel different in recovery, how to set boundaries without shame, how to talk about recovery in ways that feel safe, and how to navigate grief when certain dynamics no longer fit.

We cover:

• Why awareness can make relationships feel harder before they feel clearer

• Trauma-informed boundary setting

• Disclosure as a choice, not an obligation

• Friendship shifts, romantic green flags, and family complexity

• Gentle reflection questions to support your healing

This episode is about discernment, compassion, and learning how to stay connected without losing yourself.

You are allowed to grow. You are allowed to protect your recovery. You are allowed to choose what supports your healing.

For one-on-one mental health and recovery-focused health education coaching, visit:
🌿 www.integratedwellbeingconsulting.org🌿www.recoveryiwc.org

Resources:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (U.S.) or visit ⁠https://988lifeline.org⁠

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Treatment locator: ⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment⁠

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Support & education: ⁠https://www.nami.org⁠

• SMART Recovery – ⁠https://www.smartrecovery.org⁠

Have you ever felt like everyone else has it figured out—while you’re just trying to get through the day?

In this episode of Real Life Unplugged, we explore the comparison game: why we fall into it, why it feels so convincing, and how comparing our real, behind-the-scenes lives to someone else’s highlight reel can quietly impact our mental health, self-trust, and nervous system.

This is a compassionate, trauma-informed conversation about:

• why comparison shows up (especially during hard seasons)

• how social media and highlight reels distort reality

• the emotional and nervous-system cost of constant comparison

• what glimmers are, and how they help us find moments of safety and beauty without forcing positivity

• gentle, practical ways to come back to your own life and values

This episode isn’t about “thinking positive” or pretending things are okay. It’s about learning how to notice what’s real, grounding, and meaningful...even when life feels messy or uncertain.

If comparison has been loud lately, this episode offers validation, compassion, strategies, and a gentle reminder you may need right now:

You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re living a real life.

Important Note:This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for mental health care, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing ongoing distress or are in need of additional support, we encourage you to reach out to a licensed mental health professional or a trusted support resource.Episode 28 – Real Life Unplugged Podcast

You asked, we’re answering! In this special listener Q&A, we dive into your most common questions about mental health, emotions, and everyday wellbeing. From knowing when stress is “too much,” to finding simple habits that actually make a difference, to navigating friendships, grief, and anxiety—we cover it all with compassion, humor, and practical tips you can use right away.

Whether you’re curious about therapy, looking for grounding tools that actually work, or wondering how to support someone you care about, this episode is packed with encouragement, relatable stories, and real-world strategies to help you feel a little lighter and more supported.

Because when it comes to mental health—you’re never alone, and your questions matter. 💙

⚠️ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your mental or physical health provider.

📞 If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. In the U.S., you can dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.

Episode Disclaimer: This episode discusses suicidal ideation. Please listen with care and prioritize your mental wellbeing.

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, this week’s episode looks a little different. Instead of welcoming a guest, we’re holding space for a beautifully written letter from someone very dear to us — a raw and vulnerable reflection on navigating shame, suicidal ideation, and mental illness, while also discovering hope, healing, and the courage to keep going.

This short but powerful episode is a reminder that you are not alone, you are not a burden, and your story is not finished. Even in the darkest moments, light can break through, and choosing to stay is an act of incredible strength.

If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis or concern, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. You can also find resources at nami.org and afsp.org.

In honor of National Recovery Month, we’re continuing our series on hope, healing, and the power of taking that first step. Last week, we explored how recovery often begins with a single act of courage—today, we’re building on that conversation with special guest Bethany DePugh.

Together, we talk about breaking down stigma, the importance of seeking help, and the many ways we can support one another through recovery journeys. Bethany also shares about an incredible community resource available for both individuals in recovery and those walking alongside loved ones.

This episode is filled with compassion, encouragement, and the reminder that you are not alone. Recovery is possible, hope is real, and support is within reach.

✨ Resources Mentioned

• 📞 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

• 🌐 Recovery IWC: www.recoveryiwc.org

• 🌐 Integrated Wellbeing Consulting: www.integratedwellbeingconsulting.org

• 🌐 Resurrection Recovery: https://resurrection.church/recovery/

• 📘 Resurrection Recovery Facebook: Resurrection Recovery

• 📸 Resurrection Recovery Instagram: @resurrectionrecovery

Taking the first step into recovery, or any healing journey, can feel overwhelming, but it is also one of the bravest things you can do. In this episode, Katherine shares strategies for beginning the recovery journey, having honest conversations, and showing up for yourself and others with compassion and nonjudgment. Whether you are starting out, years into recovery, or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers hope, validation, and resources.

Resources:

• • Recovery IWC Virtual Toolkit: www.recoveryiwc.org
  • Call/text 988 – National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• • SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP | findtreatment.gov

  • NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI | nami.org/help

Episode Disclaimer:This episode discusses suicide loss. Please listen with care and prioritize your wellbeing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health concern or in crisis, you are not alone. Call or text 988 in the United States to be connected to the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. You can also chat online with the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at ⁠https://988lifeline.org/faq/988-lifeline-chat/⁠

-----Season 2 of the Real Life Unplugged Podcast begins with a heartfelt and deeply important conversation in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month. In this two-part premiere, Katherine sits down with Brent and Stacey Lamb, the creative minds and compassionate hearts behind HAPPYtown and the new resource Hope and the Winds of Grief.

Together, they talk about what it means to both create hope and find hope after the loss of a loved one to suicide. They share about the journey of grief, the lessons they have learned about coming alongside Survivors of Suicide Loss, and how Hope the Koala has become a symbol of comfort and healing for individuals navigating unimaginable loss.

This episode is Part 2 of a two-part conversation to honor the importance of open, compassionate dialogue during National Suicide Prevention Month.

✨ Learn More About ⁠Integrated Wellbeing Consulting⁠✨ Learn More About ⁠HAPPYtown⁠✨ Learn More About ⁠Hope and the Winds of Grief⁠✨ Find the ⁠Hope and the Winds of Grief Workbook⁠✨ Find the ⁠Hope and the Winds of Grief Storybook⁠✨ Visit the ⁠National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline⁠