Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents - podcast cover

Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents

Welcome to Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents, where we explore the profound intersection of mental health and parenthood through raw, unfiltered, and emotional conversations. Hosted by Carter, a fellow parent navigating the challenges of mental health, this podcast provides a genuine look into the realities of parenting and self-care.


Subscribe to the Touched Out! YouTube channel for behind the scenes and bonus content: www.youtube.com/@touchedout 


www.TouchedOut.com


Theme music written and performed by Ben Drysdale ©2025: www.bendrysdalemusic.com

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Episodes

“She Told Me To Burn My Mum’s Photos” | Emilee’s Survival Story

What happens when childhood trauma, generational neglect, and systemic failure collide? Emilee’s story is a raw, unfiltered look into survival against impossible odds. From losing her mother at age 7 to escaping abuse at 16, becoming a mum at 18, and eventually reclaiming her life through education and advocacy — this is a story of breaking the cycle. In this episode, Emilee joins Carter to explore: Life as a young mum with complex PTSD The impact of childhood abuse, neglect, and gaslighting The...

Jun 12, 202544 minSeason 3Ep. 6

My Brain is a Race Car | Neurodivergent Parenting With Nell Harris

Nell, a bestselling children's author-illustrator, brings her refreshing perspective on neurodiversity to this heartfelt conversation about parenting, creativity, and breaking generational cycles. After receiving her own ADHD and autism diagnoses as an adult, Nell transformed her experiences into groundbreaking children's books that explain neurodivergent traits through feelings rather than clinical terminology. "I grew up just wanting to be able to focus... just wanting to be the potential that...

May 21, 20251 hr 7 minSeason 3Ep. 5

From Teen Mom to Military Wife | Hannah's Family of Five

Discover the real side of modern motherhood in this raw, unfiltered episode featuring Hannah—a 36-year-old military mom balancing five children across an extraordinary age span. From newborn care to teen driving lessons , she shares her signature “straddling” parenting style that resonates with every multitasking parent. Military Family Moves & Co-Parenting : After relocating from South Carolina to Mississippi for her husband’s career, Hannah opens up about split custody challenges and maint...

May 09, 202552 minSeason 3Ep. 4

When Life Shatters: A Mother and Son's Journey Through Osteosarcoma

When thirteen-year-old Levi developed a slight limp while recovering from a broken arm, his mother Chantelle couldn't have imagined the devastating journey ahead. What doctors initially dismissed turned out to be osteosarcoma—an aggressive bone cancer affecting less than 1% of people. In this emotionally charged conversation, Chantelle shares their family's nine-month battle through grueling chemotherapy cycles and the heart-wrenching decision Levi faced: rebuild his leg with severe lifelong lim...

Apr 23, 20251 hr 4 minSeason 3Ep. 3

Faith, Fear, and Freedom | Escaping a Cult & Finding Strength

After escaping a controlling religious cult as a teenager, Lockie shares his journey of rebuilding his life, becoming a father to three children, and finding healing through therapy, art, and community. • Growing up in a Christ-based cult that restricted medical care, education, and social connections • Experiencing sexual abuse within the cult environment with ongoing court cases against other members • Being disowned by his parents at age 17 when he questioned his faith • Supporting himself th...

Apr 09, 202554 minSeason 3Ep. 2

Season 3 Premiere | Kate From Episode 1 Gives Us A Fairytale Update!

Welcome to the Season 3 Premiere of Touched Out! On todays episode we welcome back our episode 1 guest, Kate! Kate returns to share the remarkable conclusion to her custody journey that defied the odds – she's now officially, legally Paige's mother. When twelve-year-old Paige made the brave decision not to return to her biological mother's home, Kate began navigating the complex legal system to provide her stepdaughter the stability she desperately needed. What followed was an emotional rollerco...

Apr 02, 202541 minSeason 3Ep. 1

Season 2 Finale | Australian Parenting Podcast of the Year | Closing Out 2024 with George

Welcome to the Season 2 finale of Touched Out! On today's episode My wife George and I chat about our year in review. A year that was very much Survive and not Thrive. We discuss our highs, lows, wins & fails along with some pretty awesome news. We finish the episode by reading a few parenting reddit stories. I hope you enjoy! Support the show Thanks for listening to Touched Out: A Mental Health and Parenting Support Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, share, and le...

Nov 29, 202444 minSeason 2Ep. 19

Balancing Business, Babies, and Burnout: Naomi’s Inspiring Story

Welcome to Episode 34 of Touched Out!: A Mental Health and Parenting Support Podcast ! In this episode, I sit down with Naomi, a passionate entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and mother, to explore her remarkable journey from a high-pressure finance career to building a life aligned with her values. Naomi shares how she embraced change amidst the chaos of pregnancy, COVID-19, and mental health challenges, creating opportunities for parents through her business ventures, including Our Gypsy Co...

Oct 30, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 2Ep. 18

Tattooing Through Turbulence | JB's Journey Through Tough Times, Heartache, Family, Love and Happiness

Welcome to Episode 33 of Touched Out: A Mental Health and Parenting Support Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend JB, a successful tattoo artist, to discuss his extraordinary journey from our teenage years working at Kmart in Bendigo to becoming a business owner and devoted family man. Join us as JB opens up about: Tattooing and Creativity: How JB's chaotic upbringing and punk rock influences led him to a career in tattooing, marked by resilience and artistic expression. B...

Aug 20, 202449 minSeason 2Ep. 17

Kindness & Courage: Navigating Grief as a Solo Parent

Welcome to Episode 32 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this episode, we explore the emotional journey of sudden loss with Kate, a courageous solo parent who shares her deeply personal experience of losing her husband, Tim, to pneumonia. Kate's story is a testament to the power of community support and the importance of accepting help during life's most challenging moments. The Emotional Impact of Grief on Families We delve into the diverse emotional responses to grief with...

Aug 05, 202456 minSeason 2Ep. 16

Ben Drysdale: Listen Now | Harmonizing Mental Health & Dark Times Through Passion & Art

Welcome to Episode 31 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents Purchase Ben's Chart Topping Single "Listen Now" on Bandcamp. 50% of all sales donated to suicide prevention: BandCamp Join us as we chat with Ben Drysdale, an award-winning singer-songwriter, who opens up about his experiences with ADHD, mental health, and the challenges of parenting. Ben shares his journey in the mental health and art space, and the inspiration behind his latest music. Navigating Parenting with ADHD and ...

Jul 23, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 2Ep. 16

A Mothers worry | Societal Pressures & Postpartum Depression in New Dads

Welcome to Episode 30 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked issue of men's mental health during the postpartum period. Join us as we discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating postpartum depression from a father's perspective. Men's Mental Health in the Postpartum Period Sam shares her partner Mitchell's struggle with postpartum depression and the difficulties they faced in finding adequate support. The conversation highlig...

Jul 23, 202445 minSeason 2Ep. 15

Punk Rock Parenting | Personal Growth, Self Love and Embracing a New Life with Ali

Welcome to Episode 29 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of a commercial photographer from Vancouver Island who overcame significant health challenges through powerlifting and a low-carb diet. Ali shares her story of transformation, parenting, and finding strength. Ali's Transformation: Powerlifting and Weight Loss Ali's incredible journey involves losing over 140 pounds and embracing a low-carb lifestyle. Hear how she navigated these...

Jun 18, 202455 minSeason 2Ep. 14

The Shaka Project | Grassroots Change & Sean's Mission to Support Men's Mental Health

Welcome to Episode 28 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this episode, we explore the power of personal stories in sparking movements for change. Join us as we chat with Sean, the founder of the Shaka Project, who transformed his mental health journey into a mission to support men worldwide. From Gym Owner to Mental Health Advocate Sean shares his journey from being a gym owner in Ballarat and Bendigo to founding a charity that uses conversation-starting t-shirts to promote ...

Jun 04, 202443 minSeason 2Ep. 13

Embracing Authenticity | Nicole’s Story of Coming Out, Co-Parenting, Feminine Art and Self Love

Welcome to Episode 27 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Nicole, the inspiring host of the "Your Say Podcast," who shares her incredible journey from corporate stress and personal turmoil to artistic fulfillment and mental health advocacy. Nicole opens up about hitting rock bottom after a life-altering breakup and how she rebuilt her life by embracing authenticity and prioritizing her mental health. Join us as we explore Nicole’s story...

Jun 04, 20241 hrSeason 2Ep. 13

New Dad Chronicles | Mike’s Journey from Sports Journalism to Breaking Generational Cycles in Fatherhood

Welcome to Episode 26 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. Today we dive into the transformative journey of Mike from Massachusetts as he navigates the complex landscape of new fatherhood. From overcoming the challenges of a tough pregnancy to the quiet triumphs in the everyday moments with his daughter, Mike’s story offers a profound glimpse into the realities of modern fatherhood. The Transformative Journey of Fatherhood Mike's journey into fatherhood is filled with profound in...

May 22, 20241 hr 11 minSeason 2Ep. 12

Fighting Cancer as a New Mum | Aaron's Story of Hope and Healing

Welcome to Episode 25 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing Aaron from Saskatchewan share her courageous journey of battling breast cancer while embracing the joys of new motherhood. Her story is an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit, weaving together the raw realities of fertility issues, cancer treatment during pregnancy, and the delicate dance of parenting through health crises. Aaron's Courageous Battle wi...

May 07, 202457 minSeason 2Ep. 11

Balancing Motherhood, Domestic Violence Recovery, and the Realities of OnlyFans | Tarrine's Story

Welcome to Episode 24 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Tarrine, a single mom, technical recruiter by day, and OnlyFans content creator by night. Tarrine's story is one of resilience, strength, and determination as she balances motherhood, battles domestic violence, and navigates the complex world of sex work while focusing on her son's mental health and emotional intelligence. Tarrine's Background and Career Tarrine's jo...

May 01, 20241 hr 1 minSeason 2Ep. 10

Fatherhood, Recovery, and Identity | How Daniel Overcame Addiction, Embraced Autism and his LGBTQIA+ Identity

Welcome to Episode 23 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In todays Episode, Daniel Van Nice shares his deeply personal story of overcoming mental health challenges, including a recent struggle with sleep issues. Daniel opens up about his discovery of being on the autism spectrum, his experiences with homeschooling, and the difficulties he faced when transitioning to public school. He reflects on how becoming a parent saved his life, sharing the joy and meaning he finds in fathe...

Apr 23, 20241 hr 1 minSeason 2Ep. 9

Embracing Parenthood | Kristie's Guide to Raising Eight Children and Maintaining Mental Health

Welcome to Episode 22 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this conversation, Kristie shares her experiences as a mother of eight children, including raising a child with Down syndrome. Join us as we explore the challenges, joys, and invaluable lessons learned from Kristie's journey. We also delve into the dynamics of raising triplets, managing a large family, and maintaining mental health and self-care. Kristie's Journey with Special Needs Parenting Kristie discusses the uniq...

Feb 20, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 2Ep. 8

Navigating Postnatal Depression with the Help of Mother-Baby Units | Tarra’s Journey

Welcome to Episode 21 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this heartfelt conversation, we delve into the experiences of Tarra as she shares her journey through motherhood, postnatal depression, and mental health struggles. Tarra opens up about her challenges, the support she received, and the importance of seeking help and finding effective treatment. Tarra's Story of Postnatal Depression Tarra shares her deeply personal experiences with postnatal depression, highlighting tha...

Jan 23, 20241 hr 2 minSeason 2Ep. 7

Embracing Parenthood After Loss | Michael's Story of Resilience and Self-Care

Welcome to Episode 20 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the journey of Michael, a father who experienced the loss of an angel baby before conceiving his daughter, Maisie. Michael shares his experience of coping with grief, seeking professional help, and the challenges of parenting after loss. Michael's Journey Through Grief Michael opens up about the profound grief he and his partner faced after losing their angel baby. He discusses t...

Jan 09, 202458 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Sobriety and Stand-Up | Sam Miller on Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Comedy

Welcome to Episode 19 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. I'm your host, Carter, and today, we have an incredibly funny, kind, and wise guest, Sam Miller, joining us. In this episode, we'll delve into Sam's journey from addiction to recovery and his thriving career in stand-up comedy. Sam Miller's Transformation Sam, from Spokane, Washington, shares his incredible story of transformation. Sober since June 10, 2008, he is actively engaged in the recovery community. Sam opens up a...

Nov 08, 202342 minSeason 2Ep. 5

Overcoming Postpartum Depression | Ali's Journey to Finding Balance in Motherhood

Welcome to Episode 18 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. Today, we are joined by Ali, short for Alexandra, to explore the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, with a focus on finding balance and overcoming postpartum depression. Journey Through Clinical Depression Ali opens up about her diagnosis with clinical depression in 2010, sharing her personal journey and shedding light on the stigma that often surrounds mental health issues. Challenges of Motherhood Motherhood brought...

Oct 24, 20231 hr 4 minSeason 2Ep. 4

Gentle Parenting and Boundaries | Insights from a Trauma Specialist

Welcome to Episode 17 of Touched Out! A Mental Health and Parenting Podcast. Today, we unravel the delicate balance of gentle parenting and setting boundaries with our special guest, Mark, a clinical psychotherapist and trauma specialist from Montreal, Canada. Mark's Background and Career Mark's upbringing and personal experiences have profoundly influenced his approach to parenting. Overcoming his own substance abuse struggles and being diagnosed with drug-induced paranoia, Mark began his caree...

Oct 10, 202359 minSeason 2Ep. 3

Breaking Stigmas | ADHD | Autism | Innovative Sensory Solutions with Jo from Kaiko Fidgets

Welcome to Episode 16 The Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. I'm your host, Carter, and today, we're diving into the fascinating and often misunderstood dynamics of ADHD and Autism in our society. Meet Jo, the mother of Kai and Kobe. Kai, a brilliant young mind, founded Kaiko at just 11 years old in 2017. Kaiko was created to provide age-appropriate sensory solutions and fidget toys, born out of Kai's personal experiences with dyslexia and autism. These sensory solutions have sign...

Sep 26, 20231 hr 15 minSeason 2Ep. 2

Unveiling Strength | Les' Journey Through Narcissistic Abuse and Postpartum Psychosis

Welcome to Episode 15 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents On todays episode we speak to Les, a remarkable individual from Spokane, Washington, faced immense challenges from a young age. At just 5 years old, she was placed into foster care due to her mother's abandonment. This early trauma set the stage for a series of difficult experiences. A Mother’s Exploitation and Abuse Les shares how her mother involved her in various cons to make money, leading to her exploitation from a yo...

Sep 26, 20231 hr 11 minSeason 2Ep. 1

Season 2 Trailer (04/10/23)

The Touched Out Podcast is back with a second season. Premiering on 4th October 2023. Mark your calendars! Support the show Thanks for listening to Touched Out: A Mental Health and Parenting Support Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, share, and leave a rating and review. Your support helps others discover their new favorite parenting and mental health podcast. Connect with Us: Drop a comment on Spotify if you have any questions or thoughts. You can also visit The Touch...

Aug 11, 20232 min

Informed Consent and Support: Lessons from George and Carter’s Birth Experiences

Welcome to Episode Fourteen of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents! In this heartfelt episode, host Carter and special guest George delve deep into their personal lives, sharing their hobbies, childhood experiences, and mental health struggles. Together, they recount their journey to finding each other, their relationship history, engagement, and the traumatic birth of their first child, Hendrix. Their candid discussion highlights the emotional and physical challenges they faced dur...

Aug 01, 20231 hr 42 minSeason 1Ep. 14

The Impact of Choices: Life Lessons from Mark's Experience

Welcome to Episode Thirteen of Touched Out: A Mental Health Podcast for Parents! In this powerful episode, host Carter is joined by Mark, an Indigenous Australian and corrections officer, who has chosen to remain anonymous. Mark bravely shares his deeply personal journey, discussing the impact of life choices, the power of empathy, and the significant hardships he faced growing up. He opens up about his father's struggle with PTSD and suicide, revealing the profound effect it had on him and his ...

Jul 18, 202339 minSeason 1Ep. 13
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