Shows
Benzotired#53: "KORE", a play by Danielle de Vries 🇿🇦 and Tommy Boyce 🇬🇧July 25th, 2025In this episode: I speak with Danielle de Vries and Tommy Boyce, who created the play “KORE.”The play is about Sam who freefalls into prescription drug dependence, being prescribed Zopiclone and Lorazepam (also known as Ativan). The play is a tragicomedy loosely based on Persephone in the Underworld.We talk about how the play came about and how it is for Danielle, not having experienced benzo harm firsthand, to play a character in the trenches of benzo withdrawal. I ask Tommy how it was dire...2025-07-2525 min
Benzotired#52: Sydney Hunnell 🇺🇸July 11th, 2025In this episode: I speak with Sydney Hunnell. Sydney is originally from Colorado, but moved to North Carolina.Sydney was prescribed Xanax (Alprazolam) at the age of 20 for panic attacks. Over the course of months her dose escalated to a staggering 8 milligrams. Eventually Sydney was taken off her Xanax abruptly at a detox facility where she stayed for one week.Sydney still has symptoms 5 years later, but has significantly recovered since and has a part-time job. Sydney followed the peer support program at the Colorado...2025-07-1136 min
Benzotired#51: Crystal Grier 🇨🇦June 23rd, 2025In this episode: I speak with Crystal Grier from Ontario, Canada. Crystal is a mother of six, an artist and a passionate advocate for intentional living.Crystal homeschooled her kids before her life took a sharp turn after life-altering events. Immediately after being prescribed antidepressants Crystal suffered severe adverse effects. This led Crystal to a chain of events where she was prescribed Klonopin, also known as Clonazapam, initially getting relief. After weeks she wanted to come off her benzodiazepine, leading into a year long taper. She is now two years...2025-06-2333 min
Benzotired#50: Ryan Hebert 🇺🇸May 30th, 2025In this episode: I speak with Ryan Hebert from California, U.S.A. Ryan is two years psych med free after being misprescribed benzodiazepines for 12 years, spanning most of her adult working life. She was on Ativan (generic: Lorazepam), before being switched to Klonopin (generic: Clonazepam).It took Ryan three attempts and three years to fully taper, much of it during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, she became extremely ill and was diagnosed with a mitochondrial metabolic disorder, linked to the combined stress of withdrawal and...2025-05-3042 min
Benzotired#49: Let's talk setbacks with Emma Saunders 🇬🇧May 7th, 2025In this episode: I talk to Emma Saunders from the UK, a regular guest of Benzotired about setbacks. We talk about setbacks she and I have had, others have had or may have. We talk about alcohol, supplements, food and much more.Find Emma at: the The Psych Med SanctuaryInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepsychmedsanctuary/(00:00) Intro(01:45) Emma's worst setback(04:15) Naftal's worst setback(07:59) Paid jobs with symptoms(13:25) Alcohol(15:42) Magnesium(17:03) Stress and...2025-05-0749 min
Benzotired#48: Catching up with (the now benzofree) Emma Saunders 🇬🇧May 7th, 2025In this episode: I catch up with Emma Saunders from the UK. Emma has featured on many episodes of Benzotired. She was prescribed Lorazepam (Ativan) for tinnitus and ended up being polydrugged. In this episode she shares her successfully tapering Quatiapine and Lorazepam and she shares her current state of affairs.Currently Emma is tapering Mirtazepine (Remeron).Find Emma at: https://thepsychmedsanctuary.com/2025-05-0734 min
Benzotired#47: Jenny's success story 🇺🇸February 22nd, 2025In this episode: I talk to my friend Jenny, from New York, U.S.A. She is featured on episode #2 and #16. On episode #2, she was still tapering and she shares her benzo story, aswell as her horrible experience in a detox facility. On episode #16 (recorded around June 2023), she had been off benzodiazepines, but still dealing with symptoms, known as Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND).In this episode, we catch up with Jenny again. She has been benzofree for two years now. We talk...2025-02-2241 min
Benzotired#46: Let's talk insomnia with Malissa Pistillo 🇺🇸February 20th, 2025In this episode: I talk to Malissa Pistillo about our experiences and knowledge about insomnia. We discuss Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi), things that help us sleep and more.Check out episode #43 for Malissa's benzo story and more information about her.As discussed in this episode:"The Insomnia Diaries" by Miranda Levi (episode #13)The Matt Walker Podcast(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:33) Malissa's insomnia(00:06:45) Naftal's insomnia2025-02-201h 06
Benzotired#45: Barbara Connolly, PhD, Senior Admin Benzo Warrior Community 🇺🇸December 20th, 2024
In this episode: Barbara Connolly, PhD is the Senior Admin of the Benzo Warrior Community. She is a retired professor of political science, she has lived experience with complicated withdrawal from both benzodiazepines and antidepressants, and truly understands living with complex chronic illness and pain, particularly Ehlers-Danlos and mast cell activation syndromes. Barb was herself badly injured in 2017 by a rapid taper off Klonopin after 22 years of prescribed use for muscle spasms, and didn't realize until much later that the resulting cascade of symptoms and disability was due to benzodiazepines. Because of that experience, it...2024-12-2045 min
Benzotired#44: Rikka Allen 🇫🇮November 26th, 2024
In this episode: I talk to Rikka Allen from Finland. She was harmed by Cymbalta (generic: Duloxetine) and Oxazepam (also known as Serax). Rikka shares her journey as she is currently tapering her benzodiazepine using water. We also discuss directly tapering, finding English information and national issues surrounding benzodiazepines.2024-11-2642 min
Benzotired#43: Malissa Pistillo 🇺🇸November 19th, 2024
In this episode: I speak with Malissa Pistello. She is a benzo and a psych drug advocate with a background being in Cloud Computing & Cyber Security.
She has personal experience with protracted injuries caused by SSRIs, SNRIs and benzodiazepines, which has shaped her mission as she continues to navigate the ongoing challenges of Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfuntion (BIND).
Malissa manages the TikTok and YouTube channel TheFaceofMALPractice, where she shares vulnerable videos of her journey and provides education in the hope of spreading awareness. She is currently authoring a book...2024-11-1950 min
Benzotired#42: Flumazenil, with Nicole Lamberson 🇺🇸November 15th, 2024
In this episode: I speak with P.A. Nicole Lamberson about Flumazenil. She also serves as the Medical Director of the non-profit organization Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, BIC for short. Her personal story is featuted on episode #28 of Benzotired.
Nicole and I discuss what we know about Flumazenil using published papers and news articles. Additionally, Nicole shares her personal lived experience with Flumazenil.
If you have personal experience with Flumazenil? Please share your experience through the Spotify comments.
BIC has been an advocate for benzodiazepine awareness for over seven years. Among countless other things, BIC helped to get the...2024-11-1529 min
Benzotired#41: Domagoj 🇭🇷November 3rd, 2024
In this episode: Domagoj from Croatia shares his benzo story. He was prescribed Xanax XR (Alprazolam extended release) for severe panic attacks in 2016. He is has been tapering Xanax directly as of March 2024.
In this episode we talk about his taper, an updose that went sideways, insert pamphlets, national stigmas and more.
You can contact Domagoj at: domagoj.benzofree@gmail.com2024-11-0337 min
BenzotiredExtra episode: coming back⏳In this extra episode I announce coming back to Benzotired!2024-10-1105 min
Benzotired#41: "Healing" 💁🏻♂️May 20th, 2024
This episode is dedicated to the love of my life 💙Frank💙.
In this indefinite last episode of Benzotired: I reflect on nearly two years of podcasting and share how significantly I've healed since my withdrawal.
As I've healed, I have been doing what I always wanted to do: live life. After facing certain doom and magically survive, I am a different person because of this journey.
As I resumed my new life with the reality of Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND), I realized I wanted to focus on other things than podcasting, like writing my Dutch book about my exp...2024-05-2036 min
Benzotired#40: Let's talk benzo lingo with P.A. Nicole Lamberson 🇺🇸, medical director B.I.C.May 17th, 2024In this episode: I speak with Nicole Lamberson, a Physician Assistant (P.A.) about benzo lingo: explaining and discussing language we use in the Benzo harmed community.Nicole is the Medical Director of the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) and is incredibly engaged in the Benzo harmed community. Recently she featured on the French-Canadian journalism program Enquête "Prescription Nightmare".Nicole featured on episode #29 of Benzotired where she shares her personal story. Find Nicole's bio at Benzodiazepine Information Coalition: https://www.benzoinfo.com/nicole-lamberson/Coaching by Nicole: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=47721📧: nlambersoncoaching@gmail.com2024-05-171h 28
Benzotired#39: Let's talk tinnitus with Emma Saunders 🇬🇧May 13th, 2024
This episode is dedicated to Fronçois Chapet*🇨🇦 ✝️
In this episode: I team up with my friend Emma Saunders to discuss tinnitus. Emma and I got prescribed Benzodiazepines to deal with our tinnitus. In episode #3 of Benzotired we touch on our tinnitus briefly. Emma got tinnitus from Covid-19 and I got tinnitus from Lyme and/or the Doxycycline treatment.
In this episode we discuss tinnitus in general. How can people cope? How did Emma and I cope with it? Where can people go? We also connect tinnitus with the (mis)prescribing of Benzodiazepines and it's subsequent withdrawal.
Find genera...2024-05-1340 min
BenzotiredExtra: "Twists and turns" 💁🏻♂️⏳May 1st, 2024
In this extra episode: I share a personal update and share the current ideas for Benzotired.
(00:00:00) Intro
(00:00:30) Personal update
(00:30:00) Benzotired2024-05-0140 min
Benzotired#38: Catching up with Haeley 🇺🇸 and her liquid taperApril 19th, 2024
In this episode: I catch up with Haeley (featured on episode 10). Haeley briefly shares her Benzo story and how she has being doing after her last appearance on Benzotired.
Haeley started to implement liquid compounded Diazepam / Valium at 15 milligrams and has microtapered down to 9 milligrams ever since.
Haeley and her husband Tom launched a (non-Benzo related) podcast: Talking Ship, which can be found at Spotify and most other podcast platforms (it's so fun, check it out!).
Find Haeley's Instragram page about positive mindset on Benzo withdrawal, including a tutorial on a liquid taper at: https://www.instagram.com...2024-04-1943 min
Benzotired#37: Working with BIND with Emma S. 🇬🇧 and Emma H. 🇬🇧April 2nd, 2024
In memory of dr. Christy Huff ✝️.
In this (bonus) episode: I have an informal conversation about working with BIND (Benzodiazepine Induced Neurological Dysfunction) with my friends Emma Saunders 🇬🇧 (from beatingthebenzo.com) and Emma Hames 🇬🇧 (producer of the documentary Toxsick).
If you want to honor dr. Christy Huff and/or find more information, visit the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) website: www.benzoinfo.com2024-04-0238 min
Benzotired#36: Dr. Mark Horowitz, MBBS PhD 🇦🇺, author of "The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines"December 12th, 2023In this episode: Dr. Mark Horowitz, MBBS PhD has lived experience being harmed by antidepressants. He is the author of a handbook on how to safely stop psychiatric drugs called the Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines.It will be published in the UK and Europe on the 7th of March, 2024 and in the US on the 8th of April. It can be pre-ordered now from Amazon and other booksellers.The handbook is written for psychiatrists, general practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, or anyone involved in the care of people with mental health conditions, as well as interested members of the public (it m...2023-12-1352 min
Benzotired#35: Tijs Synaeve 🇧🇪November 22nd, 2023
In this episode: Tijs Synaeve from Belgium. After the sudden passing of his father in 2005, Tijs suffered from anxiety attacks. Tijs self medicated with alcohol to try to cope. Upon seeing a psychiatrist, he was prescribed the Benzodiazepine Tranxène (Clorazepate), antidepressants and eventually a staggering 8 milligrams of Rivotril (Clonazepam).
Trough the years he had visited America and on his last visit, he stumbled upon the book "Blood Orange Night", inspiring him to want to come off Benzos.
He had tapered to 4.5 milligrams in a few years, but ended up in an inpatient treatment where he was tapered o...2023-12-081h 00
Benzotired#34: A conversation with Alison Canavan 🇮🇪November 13th, 2023
In this episode: Alison Canavan, a former international model from Ireland. An acclaimed international speaker, wellness coach, and mindfulness advocate.
Overcoming mental health struggles and addictions, Alison found healing and transformed herself into a source of inspiration.
Named one of the Top 8 Transformational Coaches in the US by USA Today in 2021, Alison is a UCLA trained Mindfulness Facilitator from The Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She is a Master NLP Practitioner, HeartMath facilitator, Nutritional coach, Raw Foods Master, Meditation and Breathwork teacher and the award-winning author of Minding Mum: It’s Time to Take Care of You – the...2023-12-0138 min
Benzotired#33: Tapering beta blockers with dr. Sanjay Gupta 🇬🇧November 7th, 2023
In this (special) episode: Dr. Sanjay Gupta, a Consultant Cardiologist at York Teaching Hospital in York, United Kingdom. He also represents general medicine on the patient safety group and is a HYMS tutor and has been awarded 2 clinical excellence awards.
Dr. Gupta was so kind to take the time to answer my questions and shares his views on his profession and the healthcare system.
On behalf of the Benzodiazepine-harmed community, I invited dr. Gupta. As the Ashton Manual is widely recognized, appreciated and embraced, we can't deny it is over twenty years old and there are more developments...2023-11-2430 min
Benzotired#32: "As Prescribed" by Holly Hardman 🇺🇸November 7th, 2023
In this episode: Holly Hardman, Director/Producer of the documentary As Prescribed. Her personal episode is featured on Benzotired episode #20. Holly speaks openly about making the film and using it for Benzodiazepine harm awareness and change.
Holly Hardman entered the media field as a researcher and worked for Rolling Stone, PBS, and Twentieth Century Fox in the 1980s. In the early 1990s, Hardman began writing, directing, and producing short films. She also developed CFS/ME and was prescribed Klonopin (Clonazepam) as part of her healing regimen. She recovered from CFS, but was encouraged by her doctor to continue...2023-11-2141 min
Benzotired#31: Melissa Bond 🇺🇸, author of "Blood Orange Night"November 1st, 2023
In this episode: Melissa Bond, a narrative journalist, poet and matriarch to Salt Lake City’s Slam Scene. The Salt Lake Tribune and the New York Post have both done features on Bond's book Blood Orange Night, her memoir about becoming dependent upon and then withdrawing from Benzodiazepines. Blood Orange Night was published by Simon & Schuster in June 2022 and was selected by the New York Times as one of the best audiobooks of 2022. Bond has been featured on PBS Story in the Public Square, Radio West, the podcasts Risk!, Endeavors, Psychology Unplugged, The New York Times Podcast, RadioW...2023-11-1542 min
Benzotired#30: Jane Kotze 🇿🇦October 31st, 2023
In this episode: Jane Kotze from South Africa. Jane got prescribed several psychotropic drugs. The first drug she was precribed was Prozac (Fluoxetine) at 18 years old, after a 15 minute consultation with a psychiatrist who diagnosed her with a bipolar disorder and having a chemical imbalance. Over the years she was put on a staggering amount of different drugs, including Rivotril (Clonazapam), Seroquel (Quetiapine) and Cymbalta (Duloxetine) whilst drinking alcohol.
Jane has had an excruciating withdrawal, but she is determined to get off all the drugs and create awareness. Jane has written a poem she shares on the show.
...2023-11-101h 00
Benzotired#29: Nicole Lamberson 🇺🇸October 17th, 2023
In this episode: Nicole Lamberson, Physician Assistent. She has lived experience in that she is enduring protracted injury from prescribed psychiatric drug polypharmacy and an over-rapid withdrawal, that occured in a detox center, back in 2010. Nicole is involved in various withdrawal-related initiatives, including: she serves on the Medical Advisory Board of Benzodiazepine information Coalition, is an Associate at the International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal, is a founding member of the Benzo Action Work Group of the Colorado Consortium, is co-founder of The Withdrawal Project and a team member at Inner Compass Initiative. She also does outreach, marketing...2023-11-0157 min
Benzotired#28: Geraldine Burns 🇺🇸 from the Benzodiazepine Awareness podcastOctober 16th, 2023
In this episode: Geraldine Burns has been a pioneer in helping to get the word out about the potential dangers of benzodiazepines. In 1999 she started the first Internet support group for people wishing to withdraw from tranquilizers or already off and having problems. She is dedicated to the responsible and informed use of this class of prescription drugs. She was instrumental in having Professor C. Heather Ashton, Professor Emeritus from the University of Newcastle write her manual “Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw” also known as The Ashton Manual. This manual has now been translated into 13 other l...2023-10-2351 min
Benzotired#51: "My truth is out there" 💁🏻♂️January 4th, 2024
(originally recorded/published October 23rd, 2023 titled "The show must go on" 💁🏻♂️
In this episode: I share about my new website, Benzotired, personal updates and I explain the exclusive content.
In my hiatus I created a website: 🌐 benzotired.jimdosite.com where you can find resources and everything related to the podcast Benzotired, including possible changes in the future.2023-10-2338 min
Benzotired#50: "Message in a bottle" 💁🏻♂️August 7th, 2023
In this special indefinite last episode: I recap the show up till now, how I'm doing now and more.
Update October 1st, 2023
The new website:
🌐 benzotired.jimdosite.com
(00:00:00) Intro & beginnings
(00:04:41) Episode 1 to 3
(00:12:22) Episode 4 to 19
(00:20:36) Episode 20
(00:23:32) Episode 21 to 40
(00:38:12) Episode 41 to 49
(00:41:50) Saying goodbye (for now)
(00:43:41) Message in a bottle
(00:45:02) The numbers
(00:49:20) Where are the people that survived?
(00:52:43) What would I have done differently?
(00:55:45) How I am doing now & 'healing'
(01:00:33) Better tomorrows, hopes and dreams and outro2023-08-071h 11
Benzotired#27: Angie Peacock 🇺🇸August 7th, 2023
In this episode: Angie Peacock was prescribed Benzodiazepines and other psych meds after suffering from PTSD for many years. Angie tapered her benzodiazepine the last of all her meds and suffered severe withdrawal. She was featured on the documentary film "Medicating Normal". During her journey, she has become an advocate for the drug harmed community and currently offers her services for people coming off and recovering from Benzos and other psych meds.
Find Angie @: https://www.apeacockconsulting.com2023-08-0738 min
Benzotired#26: Amy Barnett 🇺🇸August 1st, 2023
In this episode: Amy Barnett, a hairstylist from Chicago, Illinois. Amy got prescribed several Benzodiazepines twenty years ago for anxiety. She had been taking Valium (Diazepam) when needed. After that prescription, she was prescribed Klonopin (Clonazepam), Xanax (Alprazolam) and other drugs. Amy shares her story of underlying trauma and the many traumas and gaslighting she endured when getting ill on Benzos by many doctors. Amy cold turkeyed for her pregnancy. Amy managed to come off of Benzodiazepines in 2015. Amy was futured in Lisa Ling's "The Benzo Crisis". Find Amy at her Instagram page: https://instagram.com/amybarnett7261?igshid...2023-08-011h 04
Benzotired#25: Chris Paige 🇺🇸July 26th, 2023
In this episode: Chris Paige, Master of Social Work (MSW), has been a licensed clinical social worker for over 20 years. He is the founder and executive director for the institute of akathasia. Chris was prescribed Ciprofloxacine (Cipro) for a prostate infection for a long time. After a second time being prescribed Klonopin (Clonazepam), he was tapered at a detox in five days and was prescribed other psychiatric meds. Chris suffered akathasia for three years. After his recovery he founded the institute for akathasia and coaches people dealing with Benzo withdrawal, including loved ones involved. Chris and I discuss...2023-07-2637 min
Benzotired#47: "I love podcasting (but I've got to go back to work)" 💁🏻♂️July 24th, 2023
In this episode: a personal update. I share how my symptoms / B.I.N.D. are; thank goodness I am doing so much better. A summoning by the government for a disability assessment did incite a wave. Life events have made me let go of scheduling and I have less time for the podcast. Loving podcasting so much, I researched if I could monetize it, but had to conclude I can't. I share my actions towards my G.P. and the addiction facility for financial compensation. Despite being amidst my journey, I describe my psychological experience in Benzodiazepine...2023-07-2442 min
Benzotired#24: Mieke Janssens 🇧🇪July 17th, 2023
In this episode: Mieke Janssens from Belgium. Mieke got exposed to Benzodiazepines through alternative ways; the party scene and online. Mieke used Benzos initially to sleep, but later on used them to be sedated. Mieke used high dosages of Lendormin (Brotizolam) and Dormicum (Midazolam / Versed / Hypnovel) whilst on opiods for back problems. When she experienced severe symptoms and interdose withdrawal, she contacted her doctor who switched her to 90 milligrams of Valium (Diazepam). Mieke shares her entire journey, including her taper and jump, which was about 2.5 months ago. When she realized there was a lack of proper guidance...2023-07-2429 min
Benzotired#23: PART 2 of 2: Dutch talkshow "B&W" on Benzodiazepines (2002) ft. Haeley 🇺🇸 & Emma S. 🇬🇧July 17th, 2023 (recorded July 15th, 2023)
In this episode: Haeley (from episode 10), Emma S.* discuss the Dutch talkshow "B&W" that covered Benzodiazepines in 2002. Next to commenting the TV show, we cover some personal notes, Ada v Ativan, antidepressants and much more.
Starring in the talkshow:
Sonja Barend - Host "Sonya"
Mrs. de Clerck - User "Mrs. C."
Dr. Boonstra - Addiction doctor "Dr. B."
Dr. Thomas - Professor General Practioner "Dr. Thomas"
Mrs. Nijkerk - Former user "Mrs. N."
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTwajPbVzcQ
Find Haeley at: https://instagram.com/benzowdpositivity?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
*Emma S. from the...2023-07-1748 min
Benzotired#23: PART 1 of 2: Dutch talkshow "B&W" on Benzodiazepines (2002) ft. Haeley 🇺🇸 & Emma S. 🇬🇧 🎬July 17th, 2023
In this episode: part 1 of 2 of the Dutch TV show Barend & Witteman "Benzodiazepine verslaving" (Benzodiazepine addiction) aired in 2002. Network: VARA.
⚠️ This is a video in Dutch ⚠️, which I translated. The subtitled video is only available on Spotify. If you are unable or unwilling to view, please select the seperate part 2 of the episode. In part 2 Haeley, Emma S. and I discuss this talkshow.
It was extremely time consuming and technically challenging to make this episode, but I think this has value for educational purposes.
Disclaimer: I subtitled the best I could with English not being my native language.
Special...2023-07-1726 minBenzotiredUpdate: week 28 ⌛Weekly updates unlockable after July 17th, 20232023-07-1008 min
Benzotired#22: A conversation with Pauline Dinkelberg 🇳🇱Recorded June 28th, 2023
In this episode: I have a conversation with fellow Dutchie Pauline Dinkelberg. Originally trained as a ICU nurse, Pauline has been the chairwomen of the non-profit Vereniging Afbouwmedicatie (Association Tapermedication) since 2019. After some physical and psychological issues, Pauline developed insomnia. After having used a Z-drug (Zopiclone) for three months, she came off quite easily. However, months after that, she developed depression due to life events. She got prescribed Setraline (Zoloft) and after just one week, she developed suicidal thoughts and stopped within days. After that, she was being prescribed Mirtazepine (Remeron). Again, Pauline did not react well...2023-07-1046 min
Benzotired#21: D E Foster from Easing Anxiety & the Benzofree podcast 🇺🇸June 12th, 2023
In this episode: author and podcaster D E Foster shares his personal Benzodiazepine story. D was prescribed Klonopin (Clonazepam) for stomach issues. After D tapered his Benzodiazepine, he researched the topic and wrote a book: "Benzo Free: The World of Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal". Subsequently, he started his renowned " The Benzo Free Podcast". D has since been working tiredly advocating for the Benzo harmed community. Despite some protracted symptoms, D has been asked for his lived experience for medical research and has been one of the founders bringing awareness to the community. D and I...2023-07-0450 min
Benzotired#20: Holly Hardman 🇺🇸Recorded June 9th, 2023
In this episode, Holly Hardman, a film maker and within the Benzo community best known for her documentary "As Prescribed". In this episode Holly shares her personal experience with Benzodiazepines. Holly has been dealing with health issues throughout her life and struggled with insomnia. Many years ago she had used Xanax (Alprazolam), Dalmane (Flurazepam) and later in life Ambien (Zolpidem) and Klonopin (Clonazepam). After her intense taper, Holly recovered, but shortly after she had a head injury which caused complication. Despite unfortunate events, Holly advocates for the Benzo harmed community.⚠️ Be advised: this episode may be perc...2023-07-0342 min
Benzotired#19: Jess Zanotti 🇺🇸Recorded June 5th, 2023
In this episode: Jess Zanotti; a Renaissance Woman; a multidimensional artist, wardrobe stylist and creative director. She was precribed Xanax (Alprazolam) for panic attacks and SSRI's over seven years ago. After ten years using prescription drugs as prescribed, she quit cold turkey, without knowing anything about safely coming off of Benzodiazepines. It was five years into protracted withdrawal she realized she was harmed by Benzodiazepines. Jess shares her journey after taking her meds, coming in touch with her creativity and healing. Jess inspired and helped the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) to create a social media page a...2023-06-2641 minBenzotiredExclusive Extra (test) week 25 ⌛Hi everyone. Still testing functions of the podcast. Regular scheduling July 3rd 2023.2023-06-1916 min
Benzotired#40: "Legacy" 💁🏻♂️June 5th, 2023
In this episode: I share a pivital update about my taper (after episode 35). After long holding on five milligrams of Diazepam/Valium and sleeping well enough and above all, feeling well, I attempt to microtaper. After getting severe symptoms, I decide to pause my taper indefenitely. With this outcome, a lot of things change for me. I left psychiatry and ironically, end up needing my G.P. prescribing me (again). I share what I've learned in my Benzo journey so far and share sulutions to the Benzodiazepine problems.
Cover photo: from left to right: a 5, 2 and 0.1 milligram...2023-06-0539 min
Benzotired#18: Dan Landauer 🇺🇸May 27th, 2023
In this episode: Dan Landauer. Struggling with anxiety as a young boy, he got prescribed Zoloft (Setraline) in his teens. Later in life Dan was prescribed multiple Benzodiazepines, like Ativan (Lorazepam) and Klonopin (Clonazepam). Dan checked into a rehab and they tapered him of all his psych meds in a staggering 9 days. Now, more than 7 years later and recovered, Dan coaches people harmed by Benzodiazepines and other psych meds.
Find Dan at: https://linktr.ee/philosophicalfishing and https://youtube.com/@philosophicalfishing2023-06-0538 min
Benzotired#17: Dr. Jennifer Leigh 🇺🇸May 18th, 2023
In this episode: dr. Jennifer Leigh shares her Benzodiazepine journey and we discuss topics like women's health. After earning a doctorate in psychology, Jennifer Leigh became a coach. Jennifer's career stopped when the Benzodiazepine she took as prescribed damaged her brain. She blogged honestly about her ordeal, sharing her experience with others. Recovered, she helps people worldwide who are in Benzo withdrawal/BIND, support their caregivers, and educates healthcare workers about benzodiazepines, and how to treat their patients experiencing withdrawal/BIND. Jennifer also helps people avoid getting on dangerous psych meds by teaching them how to overcome...2023-06-0535 min
Benzotired#16: Catching up with Jenny (#2), from Brooklyn, NY 🇺🇸 after the jumpMay 16th, 2023
In this episode: I catch up with my friend Jenny from Brooklyn, New York. Jenny featured on episode 10 and is the very first guest to come on Benzotired. In episode #2, Jenny shares her story on how she was put on Benzodiazepines and her experience in several detox facilities. In episode 2, Jenny was still tapering, but as of January 2023, she has been Benzo free. We discuss the last part of her taper, the jump and post-jump. Additionally, we discuss topics like work and income and BenzoBuddies.2023-06-0546 min
Benzotired#15: Propranolol, with dr. Christy Huff 🇺🇸June 5th, 2023 (recorded May 10th, 2023)
In this episode: dr. Christy Huff, director of the Benzodiazepine I lnformation Coalition (BIC) talk about the betablocker Propranolol. Chisty and I share our shared experience on this drug. As the Ashton Manual mentions the drug, we contemplate the use, purpose and the withdrawal of Propranolol. At this time, there has been little scientific research on tapering Propranolol. Additionally, we discuss taking anti-depressants during a Benzo taper.
CORRECTION: In the intro I mention episode #26 to know more about dr. Christy Huff, but it's episode #7.
Colorado Deprescribing Guidelines...2023-06-0525 min
Benzotired#35: "The wall in Benzo withdrawal" 💁🏻♂️May 5th, 2023
In this episode: I share an update on my taper (after episode 27) and later on the episode I share details about (the making of) the podcast. After 90 days of holding my dose, I tried to do a water titration, which did not go well. After three days, I go back on using one tablet. I decide to request for compounded pills, which I presume I will be getting shortly. Overall I seem to be sleeping, happy and symptoms are managable, with occasional shitty days. Heart palpations are currently my #1 symptom and will bug me from time to time...2023-05-0530 min
Benzotired#14: "Ada v Ativan", The Cook Report (1988) 🇬🇧April 26th, 2023
In this episode: "Ada v Ativan", The Cook Report (1988) 🇬🇧. ⚠️Be advised, this episode maybe considered triggering for some listeners⚠️ This podcast episode contains the entire episode "Ada v Ativan" from the programme: The Cook Report, published in 1988 and can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbetbDf_imo&t=36s . In the episode, Roger Cook and his team, follow Ada from Nottingham, United Kingdom in 1988. Ada had been on Lorazepam (Ativan) for eleven years and wanted to show the world what the withdrawal looks like. Her second husband Emile was set up with a camera to film Ada as sh...2023-04-261h 00
Benzotired#13: Miranda Levy 🇬🇧, author of "The Insomnia Diaries"April 17th, 2023
In this episode: journalist Miranda Levy, author of "The Insomnia Diaries - How I learned to sleep again". After Miranda's marriage is about to end, she develops pathological insomnia. Whilst being a mother of two young children and having a successful career, her insomnia quickly disables her. Miranda begins a search for a remedy and is prescribed anti-depressents for off-label use for insomnia and Zopiclone and Clonazepam. When wanting to come off the drugs, Miranda has an interesting journey, including being admitted in psych wards. In the book, research and science on sleep is explained. Find Miranda...2023-04-1734 min
Benzotired#12: Emma Hames 🇬🇧April 15th, 2023
In this episode: Emma Hames, a Benzo surviver, songwriter, musician, artist and producer of the documentary film "Playing With Life" (currently in pre-preduction). At age 23 Emma had contracted an unknown virus and suffered limited long capacity and trouble breathing normally. Emma began developing severe anxiety and panic attacks. After the diagnosis of her limited long capacity, she was treated with steroids and Bromazepam (Lexomil). At some point, Emma decided to quit the drug cold turkey. Not even aware she was prescribed a Benzodiazepine in the first place, Emma was thrown into a horrendous acute Benzowithdrawal, without anyone...2023-04-1537 min
Benzotired#11: A conversation with Renée A. Schuls-Jacobson 🇺🇸, author of "PSYCHIATRIZED"April 5th, 2023
In this episode: A conversation with Renée A. Schuls-Jacobson, author of "PSYCHIATRIZED: WAKING UP AFTER A DECADE OF BAD MEDICINE". Renée shares some of her journey of insomnia, Clonazepam (Klonopin), trauma, (sexual) healing and many more topics. Renée found creativity in her healing journey and is now a full-time artist and offers coaching. Additionally, we discuss work ethics and balance in life. Find Renée on: http://www.rasjacobson.store/ and Psychiatrized on https://www.amazon.nl/Psychiatrized-Waking-After-Decade-Medicine/dp/B09LGVZ7V1/ref=asc_df_B09LGVZ7V1/?tag=nlshogostdsp-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=572366306611&hvpos=&hvne...2023-04-051h 08
Benzotired#10: Haeley & Tom 🇺🇸 - A partner's perspectiveMarch 31st, 2023
In this episode: I speak with the lovely couple Haeley & Tom. Haeley is harmed by Benzodiazepines and currently tapering. Healey shares her story on being put on Benzos after an infection. Her highest dose was 5 milligrams of Lorazepam (Ativan). Currently Haeley is on 16 milligrams of Diazepam (Valium). Tom has been her support throughout Healey's withdrawal and shares his perspective on being a caregiver for Healey and their kids, while also taking care of himself. Healey has a positive Instagram page for people in Benzo withdrawal: https://instagram.com/benzowdpositivity?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
As of January 2024, Haeley...2023-03-311h 07
Benzotired#9: Melanie Davis 🇬🇧, manager of REST (collab with Emma S. 🇬🇧 from #Unfiltered)March 28th, 2023
In this episode: In collaboration with Emma from the #unfiltered podcast and beatingthebenzo.com, we speak with Melanie Davis, who has over 25 years of experience as the manager of REST (Recovery Experience Sleeping pills & Tranquilisers). Melanie has used her expertise to shape government policy as a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Prescribed Drug Dependency and the Council for Evidence-Based Psychiatry. She has contributed to several committees and reports on the issue of prescribed drug dependency. Her insights have been featured in national media, including BBC Newsnight and The London Times. Through her work with REST, Melanie...2023-03-2834 min
Benzotired#8: A conversation with Paul Hirsch 🇺🇸March 23rd, 2023
In this episode: Paul Hirsch from Chicago, Illinois 🇺🇸 shares his story about his journey on Klonopin (Clonazepam), which he was on for many years for anxiety and insomnia. Paul experienced tolerance withdrawal prior to tapering. Paul has almost been three years Benzo free. Paul shares some of the things that helped him through withdrawal and we talk about cognitive behavioural therapy and meditation. https://instagram.com/paulh545?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=2023-03-2238 min
Benzotired#27: "Remember who you were before Benzos" 💁🏻♂️March 20th, 2023
In this episode: a detailled episode on my taper (after episode 20). After around three weeks, I am sleeping better and feeling better. I tapered the betablocker Propranolol, which turned out to be more difficult than expected. This taper aside, I share on my (spiritual) healing and share updates on the podcast. I feel like I have reached a (good) baseline. The quote "Remember who you were before Benzos" by Geraldine Burns had been lingering and I was struggling to remember, but in this period of time, I do. I realize I have been in withdrawal for almost a...2023-03-201h 02
Benzotired#7: Christy Huff 🇺🇸, M.D., Director of Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC)February 22nd, 2023
In this episode: Christy Huff, M.D., Director of the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) joins me today. Christy shares her Benzodiazepine journey and how she is currently doing. Christy shares information on several projects, like Benzodiazepine Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND), peer support and deprescribing guidance. ⚠️ Due to technical issues the audio quality is suboptimal. ⚠️ Christy's blog one year post Benzo: https://www.benzoinfo.com/2020/04/20/one-year-off-benzodiazepines-a-doctors-journey/ Christy's progress report: http://www.benzobuddies.org/forum/index.php?topic=220279.0 The Benzodiazepine Information Coalition: https://www.benzoinfo.com/2023-02-2228 min
Benzotired#6: Sarah Nadav 🇺🇸February 15th, 2023
In this episode: Sarah Nadav shares her story about her journey coming off of Xanax (Alprazolam), Klonopin (Clonazepam) and other prescription drugs. Sarah also contracted Long-Covid.2023-02-1528 min
Benzotired#5: Shane Kenny's 🇮🇪 "The Benzodiazepine Medical Disaster" (2016) featuring Emma S. 🇬🇧February 14th, 2023
In this episode: The first part of the episode contains excerpts from Shane Kenny's documentary The Benzodiazepine Medical Disaster, made in 2016 and broadcasted on Irish television in 2017. Shane Kelly speaks with professors Heather Ashton and Malcolm Lader about Benzodiazepines. After the excerpts Emma (from #Beatingthebenzo and the #Unfiltered podcast) and I discuss our take on the documentary @31:30. https://youtu.be/MVoFlGR7Lhs
Chapters:
(00:00:00) Intro
(00:01:21) Excerpts of The Benzodiazepine Medical Disaster
(00:31:50) Emma S. and I discussing the documentary2023-02-141h 01
Benzotired#4: Elisabeth Krijtenburg 🇳🇱, tapercoachFebruary 10th, 2023 (re-recorded on March 3rd, 2023)
In this episode: Elisabeth Krijtenburg shares her story about her experience coming off of Lorazepam (Ativan) and antidepressants. After her taper, Elisabeth decided to support others coming off of Benzodiazepines and/or antidepressants. Find Elisabeth on: 🇳🇱 https://www.deafbouwcoach.nl/ and 🇬🇧 https://www.deafbouwcoach.nl/english-site/home-english 🇳🇱 Elisabeth's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4pjC8JRvGTuTP8vyik81gW?si=icj_RDc6RFyMhucOGQ6htw2023-02-1046 min
Benzotired#22: Black Boxed Warning & Deprescribing guidanceFebruary 1st, 2023
In this two part episode: I discuss the FDA's updated Blacked Box Warning for Benzodiazepines in 2020 and a Benzodiazepine Deprescribing Guidance (by organisations named in the episode and links in the description). I also mention preparing before tapering and the concept of kindling. Part 2 @ 14:23. Due to a technical issue my audio is a little on the soft side this episode. Apoligies for misprouncing akathisia.
https://www.benzoinfo.com/2020-fda-warning/
https://corxconsortium.org/wp-content/uploads/Benzo-Deprescribing.pdf
https://www.theinnercompass.org/
Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(01:17) FDA's Blacked Box Warning
(14:23) Benzodiazepine Deprecribing Guidelines2023-02-0144 min
Benzotired#3: A conversation with Emma from London 🇬🇧January 10th, 2023
I've had the absolute divine pleasure to have a chat with Emma from London, UK, who has been harmed by Benzodiazepines and other prescription drugs. After her experiences, Emma has took it upon her to spread awareness about Benzodiazepines and other prescription drugs. We discuss many topics; one of them is our shared affliction: tinnitus. We mention friends and family and platforms which we find helpful for support. Check out Emma at www.beatingthebenzo.com and https://www.instagram.com/beatingthebenzo/ !2023-01-1053 min
Benzotired#20: "Updose, she wrote" 💁🏻♂️January 9th, 2023
In this eposide: I share very detailled how long holding on 4 milligrams on Diazepam/Valium was like for 116 days. I experience a massive wave, mostly with extreme insomnia. After getting seizures, I make the difficult decision to updose to 5 milligrams of Diazepam/Valium. I remember a book that inspired me, where the writer updosed to 5 milligrams of Diazepam/Valium and has been holding for years. ⚠️ Be advised, this episode may be perceived triggering for some listeners. ⚠️2023-01-0959 min
Benzotired#17, #18 & #19: BIND, waves, windows, tolerance, Flurazepam, crossover challenges & Long hold quotesNovember 30th - December 30th, 2022 (merged October 2023)
(00:00:00) #17: BIND + Waves & windows
(00:40:23) #18: Tolerance & Flurazepam
(01:30:22) #19: Crossover challenges & Long hold quotes2022-12-302h 12
Benzotired#18: Tolerance & FlurazepamDecember 6th, 2022
In this episode I discuss tolerance, tolerance withdrawal and interdose withdrawal.
I do a recap of my beginnings of Benzodiazepines and how the Covid pandemic masked some of my fatigue issues. I discuss the Benzodiazepine I was on for most of the time: Flurazepam, the Benzodiazepine with the longest halflife of them all. I discuss the Dutch taperingstrips option.
🎙️Post-show @ 43:15.2022-12-0649 min
Benzotired#17: BIND + Waves & windowsNovember 30th, 2022
In this 2 part episode: I discuss BIND; Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction, a term in the making describing Benzodiazepine symptoms. I check which symptoms of BIND I can relate to. I say how I can communicate being unwell, because of Benzo withdrawal. In the second part, I discuss waves & windows. Additionally, I share my experience of holding my dose for 77 days.
Part 2 Waves & windows @ 24:27. Check out BIND at: https://benzoreform.org/benzodiazepine-induced-neurological-dysfunction-bind/2022-11-3040 min
Benzotired#14, #15 & #16: Roadmapping, "The depression monster" 💁🏻♂️ & Long holdingNovember 18th - 25th, 2022 (merged October 2023)
(00:00:00) #14: Roadmapping
(00:50:05) #15: "The depression monster" 💁🏻♂️
(01:36:31) #16: Long holding2022-11-252h 24
Benzotired#15: "The depression monster" 💁🏻♂️November 21st, 2022
In this episode I talk about (my) depression during Benzodiazepine withdrawal. I call my depression "the depression monster" as a foreign entity that isn't who I really am. Next to the withdrawal induced depression, just the reality of intensity and duration of withdrawal made me depressed for a long time.
A good spell "my oasis" in June 2022 remembered me who I was and that I wanted to be that happy version of myself again. I discuss the option of taking antidepressants during Benzodiazepine Withdrawal.2022-11-2146 min
Benzotired#14: RoadmappingNovember 18th, 2022
In this episode I discuss roadmapping. In Benzodiazepine withdrawal, most of us are trying to figure out how to achieve the least amount of suffering and/or getting to zero the best way possible. I share some of my thoughts on how one can roadmap their own process trying to come off Benzodiazepines.
Photo: me and my partner in 2021.2022-11-1850 min
Benzotired#11, #12 & #13: Escaping the prison of insomnia, Z-drugs & halflife & Daylight Saving TimeNovember 7th - March 2nd, 2023 (merged October 2023)
(00:00:00) #11: Escaping the prison of insomnia
(00:48:27) #12: Z-drugs & halflife
(01:30:30) #13: Daylight Saving Time & Behind the podcast2022-11-132h 00
Benzotired#12: Z-drugs & HalflifeNovember 11th, 2022
In this 2 part episode: I discuss Z-drugs, who are technically not the same as Benzodiazepines, but they share the same adverse effects as Benzos; especially the withdrawal. I think about people who sporadically take a Benzo: is that okay? Now that there is a new movement tapering their original Benzo, I think it's important that people consider the halflife of the Benzodiazepine, because that can influence how many times one should dose a day.
Part 2 @ 24:52.2022-11-1142 min
Benzotired#11: "Escaping the prison of insomnia" 💁🏻♂️November 7th, 2022
In this episode on how I tried to escape my prison of insomnia during Benzodiazepine withdrawal. I share the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) I have received. However I agree CBT can be effictive for insomnia, it cannot undo comprimised GABA receptors caused by Benzodiazepines.2022-11-0748 min
Benzotired#2: Detox? Featuring Jenny, from Brooklyn, NY 🇺🇸November 5th, 2022
In this episode I interview Jenny, from Brooklyn, New York 🇺🇸. She shares her story on how she got precribed Benzodiazepines and when she wanted to come off them. Jenny was initially prescribed 2 milligrams of Alprazolam (Xanax) and SSRI's. Later she was switched to 6 milligrams Lorazepam (Ativan). She shares her experience about detox facilities. After the interview, I share my take on detox facilities and I refer to the Benzo Information Coalition.2022-11-0559 min
Benzotired#1: "Introduction" 💁🏻♂️Welcome to the podcast Benzotired. I'm your host, Naftal Benisty and I'm Dutch. Join me into the world of Benzodiazepines, withdrawal, BIND (Benzodiazepine Induced Neurological Dysfunction) and more. Disclaimer: always consult your physician for medical advice.
Benzotired originally aired October 2022. In april 2024 I revised Benzotired and re-recorded this episode (the transcript of this episode is therefore incorrect).
In this episode I will explain what this podcast is about and share the history and changes that Benzotired has had up to 2024. Additionally, I will briefly share my benzodiazepine journey up to 2024.
Find information about...2022-10-2059 min