Suicide Zen Forgiveness
At 16, I lost my dear friend Andrea to suicide—a profound loss that became both the best and worst gift, guiding me through the darkest of times. Welcome to ”Suicide Zen Forgiveness,” where we dig into stories of suicide loss, ideation, and mental health, weaving threads of hope into every narrative. Each story shared has the power to touch someone who needs it most, offering a beacon of light in their journey. Join us in adding to our well of hope by sharing your story. Together, let’s #ChooseLife and #KeepBreathing, nurturing resilience and healing. Interested in sharing your story as a guest? Reach out to us at https://bit.ly/1SZFchat.
Episodes
Episodes
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Through the Fire: Stewart Thompson’s Journey of Survival and Advocacy
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Surviving Childhood Abuse and Suicidal Attempts - An Interview with Stuart Thompson
Welcoming Stuart Thompson, host of an abuse survivor based podcast in Toronto. Stuart recounts his experiences of childhood sexual abuse, moving from Ottawa to Richmond, breaking his silence and turning towards meaningful conversations around this trauma. He speaks about his involvement with the Gatehouse Centre in Toronto, a support centre for men, women, and children who've suffered child abuse. Stuart's story of recovery and ongoing efforts to help others through similar personal tragedies becomes a beacon of hope and resilience. However, Stuart emphasizes that there's no 'magic pill' to healing; patience, hard work, and self-discoveries are all vital parts of the healing journey. Now Stuart is committed to breaking silences, extending help, and becoming an active agent of positivity and change in the community.
Stewart has gone on to speak in front of the World health Organization.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Host
00:12 The Mission of the Podcast
00:35 Warning and Disclaimer
00:55 Introduction of the Guest
01:33 Personal Stories and Shared Experiences
05:04 The Impact of Childhood Abuse
07:07 The Struggle with Trust and Relationships
10:43 The Journey to Recovery
14:02 The Importance of Suicide Awareness
22:01 The Positive Side of the Journey
22:09 The Role of the Gatehouse in Recovery
25:56 The Importance of Understanding and Expressing Feelings
29:52 Embracing Emotional Healing
30:09 Journey into Volunteering and Facilitating
30:47 Finding My Voice Through Art Therapy
31:37 The Struggles of Working with Trauma
32:08 The Power of Finding My Voice
33:20 Creating the Survivors Council of Canada
35:02 The Lifelong Impact of Childhood Trauma
36:46 The Power of Belief and Self-Understanding
40:16 The Goal to Expand the Gatehouse Across Canada
44:52 The Importance of Self-Care and Gratitude
49:56 The Unforgiven Warrior: A Personal Reflection
54:57 The Rewarding Aspect of Mentoring
55:41 Closing Remarks and Future Plans
From Stewart:
My name is Stewart Thompson I am a survivor, probably more like a Warrior from my child hood sexual abuse, I guess my 1st statement brings you to where I am coming from a little better to what I am here to talk about today.
I started my healing journey 13 years ago, being a 60+ male I was taught never to talk about my feelings, definitely not about my child abuse as you can see that plan did not go well. After volunteering at the Gatehouse for 10 years, I never considered or thought possible that I would become an employee (Program Assistant Trauma Informed) my role is to support men coming into our programs and women too when needed.
My advocacy over the years has given me a podcast (Personal Transformation) starting in 2014 and 2018 podcasts later I am still here talking about a subject that many stay away from not stopping me, that has also has given me the gift of speaking Internationally for World Health Organization/ISPCAN International Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect with a documentary and presentation 2020. Proud to announce that starting in Jun 2022 co-founding Survivors Council of Canada in conjunction with the Gatehouse.
Links:
https://my.blogtalkradio.com/tools/#/my-episodes
Stewart on YouTube
Survivors Council
The Gatehouse
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Mindfulness as a Mental Health Tool: An Interview with Debbie Hampton S7 E6
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
The Science of Mindfulness: A Discussion with Debbie Hampton
Debbie Hampton, a guest with personal experience of using mindfulness as a mental health tool. Debbie speaks about her new book on using mindfulness from a scientific perspective. She narrates her personal journey from depression, suicide attempt, brain injury to conscious self-recovery through mindfulness. She emphasizes that mindfulness is an effective tool to combat anxiety and depression and maintain mental health. The discussion includes an in-depth exploration of how mindfulness exercises can influence neuroplasticity -- the ability of the brain to form new connections. Debbie offers various tips for easy-to-apply mindfulness exercises that can redirect negative thought patterns into more positive ones.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation
01:04 The Power of Mindfulness in Mental Health
03:59 Debbie's Personal Journey and Struggles
05:29 Understanding Neuroplasticity and the Brain
08:43 Rebuilding Life After Trauma
10:32 The Role of Mindfulness in Recovery
15:01 Practical Mindfulness Techniques
19:05 The Impact of Affirmations and Grounding
32:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Debbie Hampton
Author | Writer | Online Marketer
Creator of The Best Brain Possible
How to Use Mindfulness as a Mental Health Tool
Beat Depression and Anxiety by Changing Your Brain
Sex, Suicide and Serotonin
Socials
FB
X
P
LI
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Lightening the Load: Finding Strength in Shared Stories Michael Wood S7 E5
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Sharing Stories and Breaking Stigmas: An Inspiring Conversation with Michael Wood on Suicide Zen Forgiveness
In this episode of Suicide Zen Forgiveness, host Elaine Lindsay welcomes guest Michael Wood to discuss his experiences with suicide and mental health, primarily focusing on his late brother, Jeff. Elaine emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations around these topics to end the silence, stigma, and shame associated with them. Michael recounts his brother's struggles with addiction, triggered by the pandemic's restrictions. Citing his own experiences in the music industry, he signals the potential harms of excessive money and hedonistic lifestyle. The podcast also addresses the inadequacy of emergency services in transferring distress calls across cities, highlighting Michael's proactive efforts to modernize this system, inspired by his own inability to offer immediate help for his brother. Lastly, both Elaine and Michael urge listeners to reach out for assistance, to be aware of individual struggles, and promote kindness.
0:00 Lightening the Load: Finding Strength in Shared Stories Michael Wood S7 E5
00:57 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:10 Personal Connection and Conversation Flow
02:02 Michael's Story: His Brother's Life and Challenges
06:08 Michael's Personal Journey and Career
06:39 Remembering Jeff Wood
07:12 Comparing Personalities and Lifestyles
08:58 Michael's Music Career and Encounters
11:31 The Importance of Connection and Support
12:35 The Challenges of Emergency Services
12:47 Michael's Advocacy for 911 Call Transfer
16:17 Personal Experiences with Emergency Services
19:02 Continued Advocacy and Achievements
19:48 The Impact of Personal Loss
22:49 The Importance of Reaching Out and Kindness
30:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
A Mother’s Battle: Confronting Cancer and Mental Health with Losa McCoy S7 E4
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
The Power of Positivity and Gratitude in Overcoming Mental Health Struggles and Cancer
In this episode of the Suicide Zen Forgiveness podcast, host Elaine Lindsay speaks with Losa McCoy. The conversation broaches the subjects of suicide ideation, mental health, depression, and Losa's personal battle with stage two breast cancer. The episode sheds light on the importance of ending stigma associated with mental health struggles, building empathy and understanding amongst caregivers, families, and society at large. They stress adopting mindfulness and gratitude as personal practices, and discuss the significance of empathetic human connection, importance of instilling gratitude, and changing stigmatized narratives surrounding mental health for future generations. The episode concludes with the call to appreciation for life, even amidst challenges and pain.
00:00 Introduction to Suicide Zen Forgiveness Podcast
00:56 Introducing the Guest: Losa McCoy
01:41 Losa's Battle with Depression, Suicide Ideation, and Cancer
02:31 The Impact of Cancer on Family and the Concept of 'Mom Guilt'
05:00 The Struggles of Parenting While Battling Cancer
08:56 The Loneliness of the Cancer Battle and the Importance of Support
09:49 Suicide Ideation Amidst the Cancer Battle
11:00 The Importance of Self-Care and Mindfulness in Overcoming Challenges
16:48 The Need for Open Conversations about Suicide and Mental Health
20:02 The Stigma of Mental Health and the Need for Change
27:04 The Importance of Empathy in Healthcare
28:13 Personal Experiences with Medical Stigmatization
29:20 The Power of Human Connection
29:45 Discussing the Works of Renee Brown
31:10 The Struggles of Medical Procedures
33:16 The Journey from Medical Field to Computers
36:11 The Power of Mindfulness
46:02 The Importance of Gratitude
48:08 Closing Remarks and Appreciation
48:54 Podcast Outro and Sponsor Acknowledgements
Losa's journey is a testament to the power of personal growth and healing. Drawing from a profound well of life experiences, she has emerged not only as a survivor but as a beacon of hope for those navigating their own paths of transformation. Her story, marked by trials and triumphs, has cultivated a deep understanding of the human spirit and a genuine empathy for the struggles that shape us all.
As the luminary force behind From Suffering to Serenity, Losa has created a sanctuary where individuals embark on a transformative journey toward inner peace and well-being. Her holistic approach embraces the mind, body, and spirit, offering a diverse range of tools and practices tailored to each unique individual seeking solace.
BIO
Losa's commitment to building an environment of growth extends beyond her professional endeavors. She is not only a mentor but a compassionate guide, walking alongside others as they navigate the intricate path from suffering to serenity. Her passion for empowering others to reclaim their lives is evident in every facet of her work.
Email: Losa@fromsufferingtoserenity.com
Phone: 1-801-631-4002
SOCIALSFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/losa.c.mccoy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/losachristie21/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lcmccoy1
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/LosaMccoy2175
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Ending the Silence: A Death Doula’s Take on Suicide and Mental Health S7 E3
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Deeper Conversations about Mental Health, Grief, and Education
In this episode of Suicide Zen Forgiveness, host Elaine Lindsay talks to death doula Jill McClennan about ending the stigma around suicide and mental health. Despite societal norms, they delve deep into the importance of opening up about grief and pain. They also talk about the critical role of educating children not only about suicide or death but also about understanding their thoughts and feelings. Furthermore, they discuss how societal judgment often causes certain actions and how addressing the root cause could bring about positive change. Lastly, the conversation illuminates the shortcomings of societal norms on victim-blaming and the urgent need for empathy and community support.
00:00 Introduction to Suicide Zen Forgiveness Podcast
00:11 The Importance of Normalizing Conversations about Suicide and Mental Health
01:00 Introducing Guest Speaker: Jill McClennan
01:52 The Importance of Conversations about Death and Dying
02:54 Personal Experiences with Grief and Loss
03:26 The Impact of Unprocessed Grief
05:05 The Unique Grief of Losing a Pet
09:23 The Importance of Honest Conversations about Grief
12:17 The Impact of Divorce and Absent Parents on Children
17:07 The Importance of Honesty and Openness in Parenting
23:14 The Need for Better Mental Health Education
25:45 The Role of Meditation and Self-Reflection in Mental Health
28:33 The Impact of External Influences on Our Thoughts
28:56 The Cyclical Nature of Life and Adaptability
29:31 The Power of Choice and Empowerment in Thought
30:04 Understanding the Spectrum of Human Behavior
30:49 The Strength in Being Different
31:44 The Struggle with Unprocessed Trauma
33:19 The Importance of Addressing Root Causes
34:16 The Power of Self-Reflection and Processing Trauma
34:50 The Challenge of Society's Expectations
36:52 The Impact of Victim Blaming
42:05 The Importance of Teaching Life Skills
45:05 Closing Remarks and Future Conversations
46:04 The Power of Community and Uplifting Each Other
47:26 Post-Show Notes and Acknowledgements
Jill McClennen is a certified death doula, grief coach, and the "Seeing Death Clearly" podcast host.
Jill offers compassionate support, practical preparation, and deep emotional healing to clients and their families. She provides her services in person as well as virtually.
Beyond her role as a death doula, Jill is also a trauma-sensitive yoga instructor. She incorporates movement, reiki, and shamanic healing techniques to assist clients in addressing their fears surrounding death, coping with grief, and finding peace around the end of life.
Her journey as a death doula has profoundly shaped Jill's perspective on life's priorities. This transformation fuels her mission of helping others clarify their core values, regardless of the time they have left.
Through her podcast, Jill engages in meaningful discussions with various guests about death, dying, grief, and how to live life fully. She advocates for open, honest dialogues about death, dying, and grief among friends and loved ones, including age-appropriate discussions with children from an early age.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
https://seeingdeathclearly.buzzsprout.com
Jill C. McClennen
Death Doula - Death and Grief Coach - Podcast Host
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
Seeing Death Clearly Podcast
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
16 Years Undead: Madeline’s Fight Against a System Error S7 E2
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Surviving Against All Odds: Madeline Michelle Carthen's Battle with the U.S. Government
Elaine Lindsay, host of Suicide Zen Forgiveness, discusses with Madeline Michelle Carthen her 16-year-long battle with various government agencies that erroneously declared her dead. Madeline details her enormous efforts to prove her existence, from learning law to appearing in court. Despite the harrowing experience and its toll on her mental health, Madeline remains resilient and is determined to eventually get in front of the Ways and Measures Committee to rectify the error. She also observes the security flaws in governmental systems and suggests possible improvements. The conversation extends to discuss the value of faith in difficult times, the importance of personal resilience, and the power of hope.
00:00 Introduction to Suicide Zen Forgiveness Podcast00:17 Elaine Lindsay's Mission and Podcast Disclaimer01:11 Introduction to the Episode and Guest03:07 Guest's Personal Story: The Beginning03:56 The Unfolding Mystery: Declared Dead06:49 The Struggles and Consequences of Being 'Dead'09:47 Media Coverage and Legal Battles14:15 The Impact on Personal Life and Mental Health22:14 The Search for a Solution: Legal Research and Self-Representation23:57 The Struggle with Erroneous Death Letters24:42 The Impact of Identity Errors on Personal Life25:51 Navigating Legal Challenges and Name Change27:25 The Aftermath of Name Change and Identity Restoration29:18 The Media Attention and Its Consequences30:42 The Ongoing Battle with Social Security Administration31:31 The Intricacies of Identity Theft and Financial Impact32:26 The Struggle with Government Agencies and Privacy Breaches36:08 The Discovery of Unclaimed Benefits and Financial Anomalies38:57 The Plan to Approach Congress and Future Aspirations39:59 The Continuous Breaches and the Fight for Privacy41:14 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
People Article
New York Post
BIO
Proficient in Entrepreneurship, Urban ministry and mentorship, Madeline-Michelle continuously works with men, women, and at-risk youth in urban communities who have been limited in their spiritual and mental growth. She understands more of youths’ nature stems from their societal hindrances and their environment, since she has traveled throughout West Africa and supporting her South India international ministry.Professionally, Madeline-Madeline experience varies and includes working with Fortune 500 companies, schools, and the Information Systems Technology Department at Florissant Valley Community College in St. Louis. Madeline-Michelle have been a 29 year volunteer, spiritual advisor and advocate throughout the Missouri Eastern Region Department of Correction Institution. She have received the Volunteer of the Year award for diligently volunteering her time as a spiritual mentor to incarcerated men and women. For five years, Madeline-Madeline served as an associate minister and “right arm” for her former pastor at Covenant Church Christian Center, before being ordained as a minister in June 1999. Later, as a full-time minister, Carthen who also is an advocate for justice and public safety has helped implement pilot training programs for probation staff and coordinators in the City of St. Louis Department of Corrections. She served as a Certified Mentor working with St. Louis County Juvenile Detention Center. Madeline-Michelle, role was to conducting weekly, non-custodial fathers support group meetings at the St. Louis County Justice Center with the assistance of the Father Support Center reunifying families. Madeline-Madeline a former Associate Pastor affiliated with United Methodist Church (UMC) in, Missouri and the youngest of three siblings. At the age of 24 years old, she dedicated herself to Christian ministry full-time.
Madeline-Madeline graduated from the Adults in Ministry program at St. Louis Christian College, where she minored in Urban Christian Ministry. She was a former Master of Divinity candidate attending Eden Theological Seminary. Soon after a few years Madeline-Michelle enrolled as a professional student who was appointed as an Ambassador through Missouri Trade and Business Office. This appointment was on behalf of Webster University International Business Intern Exchange Program that granted Madeline the opportunity to study Entrepreneurship with a Minor in International Business at Legon University in Accra Ghana.
Minister Madeline-Madeline: Carthen, a published author who is still advocating her life existence with the hope of her identity being restored. The U.S. Social Security Administration declared her deceased over 16 years ago in Missouri.
Formerly known as -Rev. Madeline M. Coburn: books, biography, latest update
Look for a copy @CreateSpace.comAmazon.comBakers and TaylorBarnesandNoble.comBorders.comTarget.comC.R.I.E.D A Pastor’s Life Behind Bars Credentials:Ordained Minister
Entreprenuer
Author
Public Speaker
CONTACT:
Madeline-Michelle: Carthen
EMAIL: MMCOBURN1@GMAIL.COM
+1(314) 546-9388
Facebook: madeline michelle carthen
LinkedIn: carthencornerstonesolutions
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Victim to Vegas: Kevin Lepine’s Powerful Transformation Journey S7 E1
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Surviving Abuse, Suicide and Building a Supportive Community with Hypnotist Kevin Lepine
In this episode of 'Suicide Zen Forgiveness', host Elaine Lindsay interviews professional hypnotist, Kevin Lepine, who survived an abusive childhood and suicidal thoughts. Kevin's journey from being a bullied, adopted child in Detroit to becoming a headliner in Las Vegas has been filled with adversity. He attributes his growth to the supportive community that helped him build resilience. The discussion also covers the importance of community for mental health, the detrimental effects of isolation, and the need to normalize conversations about mental health issues. Kevin and Elaine further delve into the effects of negative self-talk and the role of acceptance and gratitude in overcoming life's challenges. The episode also emphasizes the necessity for immediate help for people experiencing grief or mental health problems, encouraging those affected to reach out to local health services. Kevin also discusses the inspiration behind his book 'Deep Into My Eyes from Victim to Vegas Headliner.'
00:00 Introduction to Suicide Zen Forgiveness Podcast
00:54 Introducing the Guest: Kevin's Journey
02:44 Kevin's Struggles and Triumphs
03:23 The Importance of Community
04:21 The Power of Negative Self-Talk
12:03 Kevin's Personal Experiences with Suicide
13:32 Building a Supportive Community
14:18 Dealing with Trauma and Grief
22:31 The Role of Trust in Healing
24:19 The Impact of Changing Family Dynamics
26:45 The Comfort of Predictable TV Shows
27:45 Analyzing the Dark Side of Classic Cartoons
28:10 The Misinterpreted Message of Rudolph
29:48 The Power of Community and Mentorship
31:20 The Journey to Success in Entertainment
32:03 The Importance of Seeking Help and Advice
34:30 The Power of Positivity and Community Support
36:36 The Impact of Community on Mental Health
39:31 The Role of Hypnosis in Personal Growth
41:31 The Power of Gratitude and Acknowledging Mentors
44:04 Closing Remarks and Future Plans
47:40 Podcast Outro and Sponsor Acknowledgements
Bio
Before opening his show "HYPNOSIS UNLEASHED” in Las Vegas in 2010, hypnotist Kevin Lepine was touring around the world making people laugh and showing how fun the power of your mind really is. His dynamic speaking abilities make him a keynote speaker for professional industries. He is also a multi-time "Best of Vegas" winner. Learn more at www.HypnosisUnleashed.com
His autobiography “Deep Into My Eyes: From Victim to Vegas Headliner” tells how he started as a child from Detroit who was adopted, bullied, and abused and managed to become a headliner in Las Vegas. Despite facing depression, suicidal thoughts, abuse, and addiction, Kevin refused to give up. Through his journey, he discovered the importance of finding support and belonging in communities that embraced him and helped him heal. His journey has not only transformed his own life, but it has also empowered others to find the strength to overcome their own struggles.
Links:
www.VegasHypnosisShow.com
www.DeepIntoMyEyes.com
Socials
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Canada Offers 988 | Thank You Season | Hiatus
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Tuesday Dec 05, 2023
Show Notes
Shattering the Silence: Conversations on Suicide and Mental Health with Elaine Lindsay.
In this episode, wrapping up season 6, Elaine talks about Canada's new 988 Suicide prevention line, offers heartfelt, 'Thank You' to each of our Guests and covers our 'December Hiatus' - while Elaine is gone there will be clips from past shows with thanks to all our guests...
We return on January 9th, 2024. May your holiday season be Safe, be calm, and most importantly, be kind to yourself and others..
In 'Suicide Zen Forgiveness', host Elaine Lindsay shares the poignant stories of those affected by suicide and mental health issues. The podcast aims to disintegrate the silence, stigma, and shame that often surround these difficult topics while encouraging an open dialogue. Listeners are reminded that this podcast is educational and might be triggering; immediate assistance is advised for those going through mental health struggles. The show wraps up by encouraging listeners to subscribe, review, and share the podcast, and introduces the sponsors who are all supporters of mental health causes. Potential guests with a story to share are also invited to participate.
00:00 Introduction to Suicide Zen Forgiveness Podcast
00:11 The Mission of the Podcast
00:35 Important Disclaimer
00:51 Introduction to the Host
15:22 Appreciation and Encouragement to Subscribe
15:48 Sponsors of the Podcast
16:41 Invitation to Share Your Story
16:54 Closing Remarks
Suicide Zen Forgiveness
On this podcast we talk real stuff – the stories of dealing with suicide loss, navigating tough times, and embracing mental health journeys. Elaine, your host, is on a mission to break the silence, kick stigma to the curb, and wave goodbye to the shame surrounding suicide loss and mental health struggles. You know, it’s true what they say – You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge. So, let’s start the conversation, open up, and share our experiences. When I was 16, I lost a dear friend to suicide. Little did I know, that tough experience would turn into a valuable lesson. Now, in my late 60s, I’m still learning and appreciating the Best/Worst Gift from Andrea that keeps me going. Join me in choosing life, taking deep breaths, and embracing vulnerability.
#Chooselife #keepbreathing #vulnerability #suicideloss #Ideation #shareyourstory #youmatter #mentalhealth #stopthestigma #starttheconversation #Hope
Trigger Warning: Suicide Zen Forgiveness podcast is for education only. Some of the subject matter could be triggering for those newly grieving, or in a poor state of mental health. Please call you local suicide hotline, or mental health office if you need immediate