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What's new at Benzo Free? What's new in the benzo community? And what's new in research, training, and support? In today's episode, the Benzo Free Podcast returns with a new format and a revitalized outlook for the future. I hope you'll join us. Listen here on YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / Blubrry / Pandora / Podbean Chapters 0:00:00 Our New Format 0:01:34 Setbacks & Honesty 0:05:29 Happy to Be Back 0:06:25 the "uneven" podcast 0:10:47 Podcast Frequency 0:11:59 Community Updates 0:12:38 Raw, Unscripted, & Flawed 0:13:28 How Are You Doing? 0:16:11 Benzo Peer Training 0:21:01 Research Update 0:22:53 Where Benzo Studies Often Fail 0:25:24 My Benzo Background 0:27:38 Who Do You Trust for Info? 0:31:36 Benzo Brain Break 0:31:48 I Got Burned Out / Me Being Me 0:33:27 It's Been a Rough Road 0:34:41 Closing References "uneven" podcast — https://easinganxiety.com/uneven Easing Anxiety YouTube Channel — https://youtube.com/@EasingANX Benzo Peer Support Training — https://benzopeertraining.org The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com Benzo Warrior — https://benzowarrior.com Recording Info — RECORDED: Wednesday, May 1, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com/benzofree — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The Benzo Free podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) Benzo Free Theme Music — TITLE: Walk in the Park — ARTIST: Neil Cross PODCAST PRODUCTION The Benzo Free Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

Individuals who suffer from anxiety-related disorders have often been labeled as "weak" — but, is there any truth in this? What causes our anxiety? Who else suffers from excessive anxiety? And is there an upside to having an overactive mind? Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 and then along came a breeze 0:00:51 navy seal training 0:01:26 how weak am i? 0:02:24 wrote about this in my book 0:03:07 anxiety and the military 0:04:30 michael phelps 0:05:16 anxiety can be severe 0:06:36 nature vs. nurture 0:07:04 studies on anxiety genetics 0:09:24 environmental factors on anxiety 0:10:10 a little less self-critical 0:11:02 you're not alone 0:12:32 the brighter side of things 0:13:01 avoiding danger 0:13:31 famous people who suffer from anxiety 0:15:41 it's not that easy 0:16:13 just want a little understanding 0:18:13 shantideva and the leather quote 0:19:38 my anxiety, my responsibility 0:21:22 we're not weak, we're just different 0:22:16 in closing References BOOK: "My Age of Anxiety" by Scott Stossel — https://a.co/d/e5BBV0I — Stossel, Scott. My Age of Anxiety: Fear, Hope, Dread, and the Search for Peace of Mind. New York: Vintage Books, 2013. ARTICLE: Michael Phelps: 'I Am Extremely Thankful that I Did Not Take My Life' — https://www.cnn.com/2018/01/19/health/michael-phelps-depression/index.html — Scutti, Susan, "Michael Phelps: 'I Am Extremely Thankful that I Did Not Take My Life'," CNN, January 20, 2018, accessed January 22, 2018 BOOK: "Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal" — https://easinganxiety.com/book — Foster, D E. "Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal.", Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. BOOK: "Anxiety and Its Disorders" by David Barlow — https://a.co/d/0ktqnNG — Barlow, David. Anxiety and Its Disorders. 2nd ed. New York: The Guilford Press, 2002. STUDY: Morgan et al "Relationship Among Plasma Cortisol…" — https://journals.lww.com/psychosomaticmedicine/Abstract/2001/05000/Relationship_Among_Plasma_Cortisol,.10.aspx — Morgan, Charles A., Sheila Wang, Ann Rasmusson, Gary Hazlett, George Anderson and Dennis Charney. "Relationship Among Plasma Cortisol, Catecholamine, Neu-ropeptide Y, and Human Performance During Exposure to Uncontrollable Stress." Abstract. Psychosomatic Medicine Vol. 63 Issue 3 (May-June 2001). 412-22. Ac-cessed July 17, 2017. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.9225. STATISTICS: WHO "Depression and Other Common Mental Disoders…" — https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/254610/WHO-MSD-MER-2017.2-eng.pdf;jsessionid=6EE9A59935A104950FF3C57F106F0D65?sequence=1 — World Health Organization (WHO). Depression and Other Common Mental Disor-ders: Global Health Estimates 2017.2. License: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. Ac-cessed April 5, 2018. ARTICLE: "America anxiety disorder" by Renee Garfinkel — https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/26/america-anxiety-disorder/ — Garfinkel, Renee, "Over-Anxious Americans," Washington Times, June 26, 2017, accessed July 5, 2017 BOOK: "Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life" by Shantideva — https://a.co/d/fcC4Duc — Shantideva. Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life: A Buddhist Poem for Today. New York: Tharpa Publications, 2002. Recording Info — RECORDED: Tuesday, April 30, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

Today, we kick off our Book Report series with "From Panic to Power" by Lucinda Bassett. This book helped me during some of my darkest days, and I just recommended it to a friend this past weekend — so I thought it was a good place to start. Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 a few deep breaths 0:01:30 an emotional guy 0:02:00 book report series 0:03:39 one good sustainable idea 0:04:33 no one perfect book 0:05:55 idea for today's book 0:06:55 welcome to our first book report 0:08:16 "from panic to power" lucinda bassett 0:08:53 intro / "my anxiety is a gift" 0:09:33 alcoholics, ibs, and control 0:11:01 setting a goal to be "normal" 0:12:36 anticipation is worse than reality 0:15:09 letting go of our need for "control" 0:20:12 you are special, intelligent, and creative 0:21:53 tracking your negative self-talk 0:23:53 anxiety medication 0:25:50 your anxiety is your responsibility 0:27:20 difficult childhoods and anxiety 0:29:03 a sense of pride 0:30:08 chapters of the book 0:33:18 about the series 0:34:31 hitting the brain wall 0:35:36 podcast book club? 0:36:02 in closing References "From Panic to Power" by Lucinda Bassett (2001) — https://a.co/d/5RN3mNI — Link to book on Amazon, 2001 edition "From Panic to Power" by Lucinda Bassett (1997) — https://a.co/d/iiMvWx2 — Link to book on Amazon, 1997 edition About Lucinda Bassett (Truth Be Told) — https://www.lucindabassett-truthbetold.com/lucinda-bassett/ — Biography on Lucinda Bassett Recording Info — RECORDED: Monday, April 29, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

It's Friday afternoon, and the weekend looms ahead of us. For many of us, this means time off. How do we make the most of the weekend? Or even, just make it a little bit better? Here are five simple, off-the-cuff ideas. Maybe one of them might help. Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 an episode about the weekend 0:00:32 signs of spring 0:01:20 make the weekend work for us 0:02:33 weather is changing around here 0:03:23 tip #1 - get outside 0:04:44 tip #2 - get out of your routine 0:05:51 tip #3 - do something with someone 0:07:46 lunch at chilis 0:10:11 tip #4 - treat yourself 0:11:09 tip #4a - find some time to center yourself 0:12:10 tip #5 - be kind to someone else 0:14:51 in closing Recording Info — RECORDED: Friday, April 26, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

By most standard metrics, the world is better off today than ever before. And yet, the rates of people suffering from "anxiety" is through the roof. What does this really mean? What is causing it? And why should we be careful when we diagnose? Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 the answer is… 0:01:01 i'm a bit ornery today 0:01:22 watching "fallout" 0:02:11 murphy break #1 0:02:44 the high rates of anxiety 0:04:03 notes, not scripted (kind of) 0:05:23 what's causing this increase in anxiety? 0:05:43 poverty? 0:05:59 child mortality? 0:06:35 life expectancy? 0:06:54 the economy? 0:07:32 murphy break #2 0:08:39 unemployment? 0:09:02 nuclear war? 0:09:25 electricity? 0:10:07 environment? 0:10:38 the younger generation 0:11:20 list of anxiety disorders 0:12:59 i deal with adhd 0:15:10 overdiagnosing mental health 0:16:04 labeling our struggles 0:17:48 we all have our shit 0:19:31 anxiety is not a mental health disorder 0:20:32 i deal with bind 0:24:01 murphy break #3 0:24:30 anxiety can be beneficial 0:27:29 becoming a condition or diagnosis 0:29:29 overdiagnosing and overmedicating 0:31:11 what message are we telling ourselves? 0:31:41 short-term vs. long-term thinking 0:33:35 ashton / learning deficit 0:35:57 murphy break #4 0:36:56 we learn to adapt 0:39:02 maybe there are other causes 0:41:39 gratitude, challenging, and backing off 0:42:55 building resilience 0:44:56 just being myself and honest 0:44:56 i hope you live a full life 0:46:26 in closing References DSM 5 Anxiety Disorders (A complete guide) — https://psychreel.com/dsm-5-anxiety-disorders/ — PsychReel, Last Updated: 2022 Trends in anxiety among adults in the United States, 2008-2018… — https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7441973/ — Goodwin RD, Weinberger AH, Kim JH, Wu M, Galea S. Trends in anxiety among adults in the United States, 2008-2018: Rapid increases among young adults. J Psychiatr Res. 2020 Nov;130:441-446. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.08.014. Epub 2020 Aug 21. PMID: 32905958; PMCID: PMC7441973. zaCentral: your life is already better in 2020 than it was in 2010. These stats prove it — https://www.azcentral.com/story/opinion/op-ed/2020/01/04/life-better-worldwide-poverty-pollution-life-expectancy-statistics/2786961001/ — Jon Gabriel, azcentral, 2020 U.S. GDP by Year, Compared to Recessions and Events — https://www.thebalancemoney.com/us-gdp-by-year-3305543 — Kinberly Amadeo, the balance, 2022 50 Ways the World is Getting Better — https://awealthofcommonsense.com/2023/04/50-ways-the-world-is-getting-better-2/ — by Ben Carlson, "A Wealth of Common Sense" The Ashton Manual (Benzodiazepines) — https://easinganxiety.com/ashton BIND (Benzodiazepine Induced Neurological Dysfunction) Info — https://easinganxiety.com/BIND — information about protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal. Recording Info — RECORDED: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

Today, I started the day happy — because I am so sad. Today, my wife left for Tampa, and I don't know for how long. I missed her the second she left. And that is the greatest reminder of one true and indisputable fact — I am one lucky son-of-a-bitch. Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 one luck s.o.b. 0:00:52 drove my wife to the airport 0:02:05 another emotional release 0:02:34 want to hear from you 0:03:39 i miss her when she's gone 0:04:34 men struggle too 0:05:42 my sister says hi 0:06:42 my wife is my greatest blessing 0:08:20 modern dating and finding that someone 0:10:00 when and where to share our emotions 0:14:07 focus on the "me" in modern society 0:16:41 sending love to those you love 0:18:01 my marriage is my top priority 0:20:30 for those who are alone 0:21:25 want vs. need in love 0:24:24 someone you can trust 0:25:17 more episodes coming soon 0:26:21 thank you to the people in my life 0:27:50 lightening can strike anytime 0:30:18 in closing References We Want to Hear From You, and About You — https://easinganxiety.com/feedback — - I'd love to talk with some of you on the podcast. Let us know. the florida trip that never happened | anxiety log | uneven 40 — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-florida-trip-that-never-happened-anxiety-log-uneven-40 — D shares info about planning a trip to Florida to help our our friend. Recording Info — RECORDED: Sunday, April 21, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

Plans made, suitcase packed, and the rental car sat in the driveway fully loaded — but I just couldn't do it. What does an anxiety attack teach us about pushing our boundaries, disappointing others, and most of all, having grace for ourselves? Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 "I can't do it…" 0:00:35 welcome to uneven 0:01:21 i do road trips / flying? 0:03:03 past road trip challenges 0:04:21 another florida road trip 0:05:15 anxiety & insomnia building 0:06:46 why florida again? 0:08:59 a friend in need / planning a visit 0:10:17 why not fly? / wave of symptoms 0:12:17 planning and obsessing 0:13:48 cancelling the trip 0:16:04 trip just postponed? 0:16:58 in search of an insightful closing 0:17:57 knowing when to expand that bubble 0:20:36 knowing our limitations / timing 0:22:42 treat yourself to a bit of grace References a not so perfect start | florida road trip | uneven #1 — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/a-not-so-perfect-start-florida-road-trip-uneven-1 — Kick off to the Florida Road Trip back in January 2024 (15 total episodes) Recording Info — RECORDED: Friday, April 19, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado (not Florida) The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

Your questions. Your comments. Your insights and advice. Welcome to the first mailbag episode of the "uneven" podcast. We'll touch on limitations & meditations, my embarrassment with early episodes, and a criticism from Ukraine among others. Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 downward spiral of podcast recording 0:02:40 our first "comments" episode 0:04:56 is this from december? (episode 1) 0:05:43 living life beyond limitations (episode 1) 0:08:11 why listen to this podcast? (episode 2) 0:09:47 love this new podcast (episode 9) 0:10:38 emotional release & hyperventilation (episode 11) 0:13:19 new format / god bless (episode 14) 0:14:20 sense of peace / meditations (episode 15) 0:17:09 love it, thanks (episode 18 & 20) 0:18:05 delete embarrassing episodes? (episode 23) 0:20:12 new format redux (episode 26) 0:20:47 constantly overwhelmed (episode 27) 0:24:52 in the moment, unscripted (episode 27) 0:27:31 what about ukraine? (episode 38) 0:31:39 my response to ukraine 0:33:50 online criticism and our emotional response 0:35:07 anxiety of living with war 0:37:02 in closing Recording Info — RECORDED: Tuesday, April 16, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

The conflict in the Middle East escalated last night. What does this mean for the world — and even more personally — for you and your anxiety? When do we tune in to the news? When do we tune out? And when do we stand up for what we believe? Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Or on these other carriers too: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 part i: back patio sipping on my chai 0:00:34 recent news from the middle east 0:01:08 news, anxiety, and tuning out 0:02:06 i don't know enough to comment 0:03:17 where do we place our attention? 0:05:51 lack of trust in media / confirmation bias 0:09:17 what bout those of us with anxiety? 0:10:06 part ii: front porch 0:10:59 the answer is individual 0:11:36 activism, what if you're wrong? 0:13:31 two sides to the story 0:14:36 activism and anxiety 0:15:11 when do we speak up? 0:18:43 it's hard for us with anxiety 0:19:39 part iii: back on the back porch again 0:21:04 drawn to negative news 0:21:58 overload of confirmation bias 0:24:03 peter santenello on youtube 0:27:10 finding my own channel on yt 0:27:48 murphy and his love of dirt 0:28:43 part iv: inside the house 0:29:43 audio vs. video podcast 0:31:51 enjoy your sunday References Peter Santenello on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@PeterSantenello — Videos about a world the media fails to capture Peter Santenello Website — https://petersantenello.com/ Recording Info — RECORDED: Sunday, April 14, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

Welcome to "uneven" — a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In this brief introduction, we share a bit of info about the podcast, about its host, and about how it all got started. I hope you'll check us out. Listen here on our primary podcast carriers: Podbean and YouTube... Also on these other carriers: Apple / Spotify / Amazon / iHeart / Podchaser Chapters 0:00:00 welcome to "uneven" 0:01:10 the official podcast kick-off 0:01:52 a bit about your host 0:04:08 how "uneven" began 0:05:16 5 tenets of the podcast 0:05:29 1) raw, honest, and unfiltered 0:06:07 2) balance & moderation 0:07:02 3) any topic, any time 0:07:47 4) compassionate responsibility 0:08:50 5) a friendly voice 0:09:22 thanks for checking us out References Benzodiazepine Information — https://easinganxiety.com/benzos BIND (Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction) — https://easinganxiety.com/BIND the "uneven" podcast — https://unevenpodcast.com The Benzo Free Podcast — https://easinganxiety.com/benzofree D E Foster (Bio) — https://easinganxiety.com/defoster Recording Info — RECORDED: Monday, April 12, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).

We have finally completed the release of the initial 36 episodes of "uneven." YAY! These episodes were recorded between December 30, 2023 and April 2, 2024 and covered two road trips — including a more recent trip to Arizona — and a variety of topics. This was a chance for me to test out the new format and get a feel for what works and what doesn't. I still have a lot to learn, but I think we had a good start. Tomorrow, April 12th, we will post episode 37 which will be our official kick-off episode for the "uneven" podcast. After that, you can expect at least one new episode every week, if not more. And now that I have been able to catch up on the backlog for "uneven," I will also have a new episode of "The Benzo Free Podcast" coming out in the next week or so. For these first 36 episodes of "uneven," I had posted a summary blog post listing them in groups so as not to inundate the mailing list recipients with too many emails. The last of these "prequel" episodes are listed below if you want to check them out. Going forward, when a new podcast is released it will go out individually, and immediately, to the mailing list. Thanks for your patience and for checking out this new podcast. I look forward to learning from you and growing it together. If you want to learn more about "uneven," check out our previous blog post where we provide a bit of background and links to the first seven episodes. Here are links to our final "prequel" episodes (episodes 25 - 36). I hope you'll check them out: Episode 25 — anxiety, heights, and pushing too far | podcast prequel Pushing ourselves outside our comfort zone is a useful exercise. I tested my anxieties in many ways on the road trip, including my fear of heights. Unfortunately, we can also push ourselves too far, too fast. Episode 26— snow, silence, and a bit of sanity | podcast prequel The chaotic life that many of us lead builds tension and stress. Take a step back, take a deep breath, and notice the beauty around you as you reset your mindset for the day. Episode 27— overwhelm overload | podcast prequel Overwhelm is such a common complaint. And, that goes double for those of us who deal with aggravating anxiety. Can simplifying expectations help us ease those expectations? Episode 28— wind, anxiety, & a new journey | arizona road trip Does the wind stress you out? Are you more irritable and anxious on windy nights? Yeah… me too. Tonight, the chinook winds have arrived in Colorado — and it might be a long night. Episode 29— the cheers effect | arizona road trip Spent a week at a 55+ RV park in Mesa, Arizona. Intrigued by the activity, positivity, and overall community here. We all need a place where people know our name. Episode 30— 15 rules for happiness (hector's list from the movie) | arizona road trip In the 2014 film, "Hector and the Search for Happiness," the main character identifies 15 rules for happiness. I thought discussing these today would make a fun podcast — and I have to admit, I had a great time recording it. I hope you like it too. Episode 31— distraction, avoidance, and anxiety | arizona road trip While planning our road trip home from Mesa, a bit of travel anxiety returned. I've often used distraction and avoidance during times like this, but I know they're not true long-term solutions. Are there better choices? Episode 32— another emotional release (brian's song) | arizona road trip Ending of the classic movie, "Brian's Song." And as expected, the tears begin to fall. Emotions — both positive and negative — are the essence of life — and a true blessing. Allowing ourselves to feel is a skill, but one worth learning. Episode 33— i have a say in how i age (wrapping up the road trip) | arizona road trip Back home in Colorado after a very difficult end to the road trip. I review the takeaways from our stay in the 55+ RV park, and compare it with other retirees. Do we have a say in how we age? Episode 34— our desperate need to belong | prequel 12:30am. Sleep again evades me. My brain fixates on my lifelong need for approval and acceptance. And yet, after 58 years, I may finally be doing something solely for myself — and it feels good. Episode 35— emotion, reason, & mindfulness | prequel Right brain vs. left. Creativity vs. logic. Reason vs. emotion. Two distinct voices every person hears every single day, hour, and minute. But, which one should we listen to? And how do we avoid getting stuck? Let's take a look. Episode 36— random thoughts on a sleepless night | prequel Another sleepless night and I just pressed record. No agenda, just thoughts. Companionship, making friends, brain cramps, mental health, pillow preference and a new Buc-ees. Just a friend — talking to another friend — trying to sleep. Sweet dreams.

Another sleepless night and I just pressed record. No agenda, just thoughts. Companionship, making friends, brain cramps, mental health, pillow preference and a new Buc-ees. Just a friend — talking to another friend — trying to sleep. Sweet dreams. Listen here on Podbean or YouTube... You can also subscribe to our channel here: Apple  (other channels will be added soon) Chapters 0:00:00 no topic for this one 0:02:24 the emotional wall 0:04:03 our collective struggles 0:04:49 the gift of companionship 0:06:32 those who are alone 0:08:30 listening to podcasts in bed 0:09:15 not crossing the creepy line 0:12:47 new buc-ees / random thought 0:14:07 i don't swear normally 0:14:48 bathroom break & boundaries 0:15:58 making friends as we age 0:19:40 cognitive dysfunction 0:20:22 fairness of mental health struggles 0:23:51 not seeking sympathy 0:25:28 what type of pillow do you like? 0:27:55 i used to sleep in the buff 0:29:23 want to play some parcheesi? 0:29:58 insomnia and mental distraction 0:31:08 time to get back to sleep Recording Info — RECORDED: Tuesday, April 2, 2024 — LOCATION: Colorado The Podcast PODCAST SITELINKS — PODCAST WEBSITE: https://www.unevenpodcast.com — EASING ANXIETY: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — X (TWITTER): https://twitter.com/@easinganx PODCAST SUMMARY Welcome to “uneven,” a podcast about life, anxiety, and being human. In such a chaotic world, how do we better our lives and the lives of those around us? Maybe, just maybe, we might find a few solutions together. Join veteran podcaster D E Foster as he explores the intimate struggles so many of us experience — often in silence. I hope you’ll join us. PODCAST DISCLAIMER The uneven podcast is for general information purposes only and should never be considered medical, psychological, or any other form of health advice. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices, psychological treatments, or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. SUICIDE PREVENTION If you, or anyone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Resources can be found on our website at: https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources#suicide. PODCAST MUSIC All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) uneven theme music — TITLE: From the Earth — ARTIST: Humans Win — PUBLISHER: Lance Conrad (BMI) PODCAST PRODUCTION The Uneven Podcast is part of the Easing Anxiety network (https://easinganxiety.com) and is a production of Denim Mountain Press (https://denimmountainpress.com).