Shows
Unpacking with SarahUnpacking with Sarah - Session Three - Feel your F&@king Feelings"If Sarah is feeling rage or anger, what that normally looks like for me is that in my forehead, I get really tight or my face will get really hot. My jaw gets clenched. I tend to like grind my teeth when I'm angry. or frustrated or definitely when I'm raging I don't feel like I can swallow as much so my mouth will fill up with a lot of spit my chest will be pounding like I can hear and feel my heart my biceps my arms my hands they all start to shake I tend to or...
2024-10-2816 min
Unpacking with SarahUnpacking with Sarah - Session OneAuto generated transcript of this episode: Hello, and welcome to Unpacking with Sarah. I'm your host, Sarah Westbrook, a licensed professional counselor in multiple states, here to talk about what we're going to be doing with our new show. So grab a coffee and sit down with us. Our goal is to, excuse me, broadcast live every Thursday morning at nine o'clock central. And as you can see from behind me, we are broadcasting from my farm. This is my actual front yard of the farm, the Daisy Girl Wellness and Rehabilitation Farm, which we c...
2024-10-1405 min
Unpacking with Sarah238 - I Sh*t You Not - Part 4 - The Erasure of Humanity"Any organization or human who TELLS you to be something that you are NOT is demonstarting they cannot be trusted. Pay attention and GET CURIOUS about that." -Sarah (and Mason) Westbrook
2024-09-231h 12
Unpacking with Sarah231 - Priesthood Blessings # 4 - Mormon SuperpowersSarah asks the obvious question: if all these fellas can heal with their hands, wouldn't there be a litany of people with spectacular health in the areas that are deep with LDS members? Mason and Sarah also delve into the use of the term 'Mormon' in their conversations. They discuss how it relates to their personal experiences and the recent changes in its usage by a certain individual. We hope this final episode of the priesthood blessings finds you well. We are at a point close to the next evolution of the Daisy Girl journey. As...
2024-06-1059 min
Unpacking with Sarah223 - Temple Series # 7 - Baptisms for the DeadPlease, let's give a special thank you to the Westbrook kiddos for joining Sarah and Mason for today's topic. What if you were taught that a person's entire salvation (as in going to heaven or hell), a person you had never met and is now, in fact, dead, was dependent on you being baptized for them? You read that right, friend. Do you even have a choice if that were the case? I mean...we are talking hell here. The worst place ever...it's gonna be rough. From Wikipedia - Baptism for the dea...
2024-02-191h 43
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wednesday Wisdom - Special cross-over episode with Latter-Daily DigestFirstly, and most importantly, we send immense love and respect to Maven and Gene of Latter-Daily Digest for jamming with us to the slow jazz sound of our apostate beat. It's been a while. Tell us how you are doing? How is the head? How is the heart? What's your favorite or least favorite classic TV crossover episode? DaisyGirlCommunications@gmail.com
2024-01-171h 22
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "If you ask the question, what did Joseph Smith set up that allows for that kind of extremism, this is it."Dear listener. The temple series has just started, and we have hit an interesting topic as the listens are high right out of the box. Was this new information to you? Old information? We were hoping you could share these thoughts or any others you might have on the private Facebook group. Bonus points if you answer Sarah's question in the show...which requires you to click that play button. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-12-0606 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "We don't get wiser as we grow older, we might get a little bit more intelligent..."We have here a religion started by a habitual liar and sexual deviant, where everyone thinks the same and, dresses the same, questions the same. What do you think? Drop us a line and share your stories, opinions, hopes for tomorrow. daisygirlcommunications@gmail.com
2023-11-2203 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "That's an indication that maybe you need to change the environment that you are in with that person."It's time to armor up. Get your emotional checklist ready, we are heading down the holiday highway, and Sarah is going to help you navigate conversations that might range from truly abusive to general assholery. One thing we should all do, which might sound extreme, is always have an escape plan, no matter the gravity of your situation. If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse. 1-800-799-7233 Domestic Violence Support https://www.thehotline.org/ (Comes with instructions on how to wipe t...
2023-11-1505 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "Mormonism isn't a safe place for women's voices to be heard..."Our excellent guest, Kayla, shares how learning the truth about how the Mormon church dealt with tithing, sexual assaults, and gender issues led her to leaving. Do you feel that Mormonism is a safe place for women to be heard, understood, or to influence change? Trauma Bonded is available in all book-selling places, and you can even get it on Audible. https://www.audible.com/pd/Trauma-Bonded-Audiobook/B0CJRZ1YWS
2023-11-0809 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "They were smoking something when they thought that happened..."Dear listener, have you ever had a spiritual experience you could not explain? Please share with us. Allowing space in your brain for an understanding that you do not and cannot understand everything is critical to avoiding conspiratorial thinking. Share your story with us down on the Facebook group or drop us a line at DaisyGirlCommunications@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-10-2505 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "...so that they learn to have grace for those that are different..."If we can postpone our hurt from having a mistake pointed out, we can tune into the person expressing how we have wounded them. Dear listener, do you have three minutes to make your life better? And likely someone else's life, too. Forward this clip across your social channels for us and get a dialog going with the intent to keep us all from causing each other more harm.
2023-10-1803 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "An effective counselor is going to realize there are multiple ways..."Dear listener, the trigger warning from episode #208 should have also included that, in general, it is a really difficult listen. From the perspective of hearing what a myopic ego run amok sounds like, from a clearly misguided desire to manipulate spirituality to maintain power structures like patriarchy, shame, and frankly shitty gender and sex ideas. Yes, Jodi said mobile phones will turn you gay and are more dangerous than a gun. Full episode here. https://open.spotify.com/episode/4N2ifYMV7YjPRV6O9ZkWJw
2023-10-0403 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "...If you find yourself lecturing or problem solving, get some help."When a partner communicates experiences or needs, do you find yourself reacting, perhaps lecturing or correcting rather than validating their emotions with empathy? It is time to consult an expert, and it is likely, even overdue, to heal some wounds. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. DaisyGirlCommunications@Gmail.com
2023-09-2705 min
Unpacking with Sarah205 - Zoe's trauma from the book Trauma BondedWelcome to our show, Sarah's BFF - "Zoe." This episode is a dive into how Zoe felt about her portrayal in the book and how accurate Sarah was in her accounts of the events that Sarah wrote about in Trauma Bonded and yes there are spoilers from the book. What's Trauma Bonded? I am so glad you asked. Sraah's first book is out, and you can order it from Amazon; the demand is outpacing the supply at this point, which is both exciting and slightly frustrating, like life or a line at a new roller co...
2023-09-181h 07
Unpacking with SarahDid he promise her "A Whole New World"?A very short story about the day that Mason proposed to Sarah. Full episode drops on Monday. While your here, Sarah's first book Trauma Bonded is now available, get your copy. https://www.amazon.com/Trauma-Bonded-Navigating-Attachments-Complex-ebook/dp/B0C9K6XNHS
2023-09-0802 min
Unpacking with Sarah202 - Truth telling & the September 6.The Sept 6 Excommunications - Learn about them, know about them, pass on their stories. Lynne Kanavel Whitesides, Avraham Gileadi, Paul Toscano, Maxine Hanks, Lavina Fielding Anderson and D. Michael Quinn Trauma Bonded: A true story of navigating relationships built in Complex PTSD by Sarah Westbrook. https://www.amazon.com/Trauma-Bonded-Navigating-Attachments-Complex-ebook/dp/B0C9K6XNHS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NQLVNLXT76FY&keywords=trauma+bonded&qid=1692559508&sprefix=trauma+bonded%2Caps%2C125&sr=8-1 A people’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn. https://www.amazon.com/Peop...
2023-09-061h 41
Unpacking with SarahA new book on the horizon?She can't stop; she won't stop. Sarah, low-key, drops the intel on us that a new book is bubbling up inside her and other colossal news, no biggie. We give you another sneak peek at a new segment in Season 2, where we feature clips of past episodes to reflect and review, and Mason looks forward to something different in Season 2: some Sarah sass. Say that three times fast. Also dear listener, remember that you were supposed to be telling us how we did. daisygirlcommunications@gmail.com
2023-08-2506 min
Unpacking with SarahIdentifying that discomfort is temporarySeason 2 is cresting on the horizon. In this clip, Sarah tells us that sometimes, when engaging with people, we need to take breaks. One misunderstood benefit of technology is that it allows us to disconnect as much as we use it to connect us continuously. Also, Mason gets a gold star. Click that play button, dear listener; we are so glad you are here. Sarah's book. https://a.co/d/3Hk3Uy1 Today's music provided by Jon Worthy Music & Cooper Circle.
2023-08-1804 min
Unpacking with SarahThe return of Aunt AfricaTo be upfront, we discuss a series of past episodes where we unpacked the family Facebook drama. She has not returned to the Unpacking pantheon of characters at this time. Were you itching for more Sarah and Unpacking Mormonism? The Season 2 premiere on September 4th cannot come fast enough, but until then, you should order Sarah's book. If you ordered it already, order two more. One for a friend and another for a friend you have yet to meet. Link to purchase here. https://a.co/d/6LFtH1b ...
2023-08-1604 min
Unpacking with SarahBad news, good news and the BEST news.Heads up, this is one of those good news, bad news type deals. The bad is that Season 2 of the podcast begins on September 4th. Moose out front should have told you. Now the good news. Sarah's book is available for pre-sale ordering; the link is below. You can get your Sarah fix there until the new season or...wait for it...the BEST news is we have a clip of the Season 2 premiere right here, right now. That is right, dear listener, we would never leave you wanting; we aren't those kinds of podcasters, tell us who hurt...
2023-08-1403 min
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - A happy anniversary on the horizonSeason One is behind us, and now we are onto Season Two; I hope everyone enjoyed their summer break, let's get back to work. Sarah and Mason review the purposes and goals of the first episode, and Mason takes a deep dive into how he introduced himself in the first episode with his relationship with the church. Sarah's book Trauma Bonded. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/trauma-bonded-sarah-westbrook/1143712371
2023-08-1111 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "Spiritual rape..."In a cult, your identity becomes enmeshed; you lose yourself because you focus on fitting in. You are spending so much time and effort to ensure you don't fail, dear listener. Is it worth it? Only you can answer, but we want to ensure you see how this penetrates your life. We are coming in hot as we end Season One. Let us know how listening to the show has integrated with your life. Could you share with us, dear listener? How is your head? How is your heart? Do you want to join Sarah's growing book a...
2023-08-0910 min
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - "I'm glaring at you..."What does perpetual inadequacy do to our mental well-being over many years? Not exclusive to religion, but this is the cult series, and you know how we do. We need a big push to close out Season One with our goal of 22K downloads. Can you help us by sharing, liking, and reviewing our podcast? We made it this far with you, but we need more. Sarah's book Trauma Bonded available on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/1JivFvs and at Barnes and Noble here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/trauma-bonded-sarah-westbrook/1143712371
2023-08-0404 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "That is about building true and complete empathy..." Real accountability only comes with a real understanding. The best way to not hurt someone again is by understanding how it affected the person you harmed...within the boundaries set by those you have injured. Dear listener, we are building an enormous amount of momentum around Sarah's book - Trauma Bonded, and we would love for you to help us continue to push it to the top of as many best-seller lists as possible. Send us your proof of purchase and we will send you some fun Daisy Girl Communications merchandise. Amazon link fo...
2023-08-0210 min
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - "You are a cute tooter..."Can we "influence" you to join our book army? Let's get this book into as many hands as possible. Sarah shares the very first review of her book, and we dip into Monday's episode, continuing our cult series, the topic: Emotional Control. Puchase Sarah's book here. https://a.co/d/haanhIC
2023-07-2805 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "You become dependent on the organization to do your thinking for you."There is a bridge between thought control and emotional control, and that bridge is mystical manipulation. Order Sarah's book from Amazon here. https://a.co/d/794OJuG Sarah's apperance on Almost Awakened with Bill Reel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nd_kNpNiDcc&list=PLq34QmiHsNjc0OsEuCziKhCIJeRL7h-Pn&index=155 Keep up with book signings, media appearances and free Daisy Girl merchandise for reviewing the book. https://www.daisygirlcommunications.com/newsletter Steve...
2023-07-2606 min
Unpacking with Sarah048 - Mystical ManipulationWhen someone uses an existential belief system to create a fear of loss within that system, e.g., you won't be in heaven with your family! You are going to hell! Rinse, repeat. As our cult series hits its stride, our listenership is hitting an all-time high, copiously powered by community members like Bill Reel. We welcome all our listeners who have joined us after hearing Sarah's appearance on the Almost Awakened podcast. Come sound off on our social media channels and tell us your thoughts about the show. We always ask. How's the head? How's the h...
2023-07-241h 28
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - "Those are statements of mystical manipulation."According to our pals over at the word factory Merriam Webster, the definition of mystical is "having a spiritual meaning or reality that is neither apparent to the senses nor obvious to the intelligence." Sarah's new book. Purchase and review, please and thank you. Send us proof of purchase and we will send you fun Daisy Girl merchandise. Book signings are coming to a town near you. https://a.co/d/1fluHVc Luna Lindsey Corbden https://recoveringagency.com/about/bio/
2023-07-2108 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "I want to demonstrate the extremism in the shame and isolation..."Sarah and Mason sometimes receive encouragement as they share their spiritual journey in this recorded form. Other times they receive challenging sentiments of anger and distress. Content warning, very salty language. Sarah's apperance on Almost Awakened with Bill Reel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nd_kNpNiDcc&list=PLq34QmiHsNjc0OsEuCziKhCIJeRL7h-Pn&index=154
2023-07-1906 min
Unpacking with Sarah047 - Milieu ControlSarah answers the question: Should the penis be required equipment for one to be in a leadership position? Short answer. No. Long answer. Noooooo. Continuing our cult series, we round the corner into milieu control, which is fun to say, hard to spell, but fascinating to dive into. Click the play button, dear listener, and let's go on a magic podcast ride. Heads up, this episode has salty language but lots of love and mental health discussion. Sarah's recent apperance on the Almost Awakened podcast. https://www.youtube.com/playli...
2023-07-171h 40
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - "I didn't sleep last night very well because Mason was itchy."Are we making a ton of money from our podcast? The answer may surprise you. This podcast is a service project, to bring the general public relevant information and basic mental health interventions. Click the play button, we want to share with you. Here is a link to Sarah's recent appearance on Almost Awakened. https://almostawakened.org/2023/07/clinical-perspective-on-spirituality-psychedelics-aa-158/
2023-07-1406 min
Unpacking with SarahThrowback Thursday - Codependence vs. DependenceCodependency is a trauma response. It's a coping skill; a survivor tries to micro-manage or control people to feel better or safe. Let's ensure we aren't talking about toxic dependency, which is overly reliant on others; this subtle difference makes a huge difference when understanding the resulting behaviors. Melody Beattie - Codependent No More https://melodybeattie.com/books/codependent-no-stop-controlling-others-start-caring/ Sarah on Almost Awakened https://almostawakened.org/2023/07/clinical-perspective-on-spirituality-psychedelics-aa-158/
2023-07-1313 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "They're trying to keep you from the accurate information."Instead of telling people they should avoid certain topics or information criticizing a worldview, let's teach people how to check claims, citations, sources, and context. A good start is some of the lessons taught from scripture. Get your B.I.T.E. model worksheets ready dear listeners. We kicked off our episode with a quick mention from Sarah about her recent appearance on Almost Awakened with Bill Reel. Sarah discusses psychedelics within therapy and spirituality. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nd_kNpNiDcc
2023-07-1209 min
Unpacking with Sarah046 - Information ControlWith the risk of infringing on the schtick of our other days, let's start today's summary with a quote from this episode, attributed to Jack B. Worthy: "I hadn't even studied Mormonism, which is typical of the vast majority of Mormons..." In Sarah's words, if the question we are asking today is, does the Mormon church use information control when dealing with its members...duh. Sarah's recent appearance on Almost Awakened with Bill Reel. Sarah discusses psychedelics within therapy and spirituality. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nd_kNpNiDcc
2023-07-101h 41
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "Angel porn....oops, I'm going to hell"How well does a bishop get to know his ward? How much weight should we put into advice from well meaning but unspecialized advice? If you are curious about the "angel porn" meme that Sarah is referring to. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082085334776 We would love to hear how perhaps an organization you might belong to is fairing when compared to the B.I.T.E. model so far. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma/
2023-07-0511 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "The church should be supporting the individual..."“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience. They may be more likely to go to Heaven yet at the same time likelier to make a Hell of earth. This very kindness stings with intolerable in...
2023-06-2808 min
Unpacking with SarahThrowback Thursday - Purpose of BoundariesTwo things that Sarah says. Boundaries are meant to protect the individual who sets them and attempting to control another's behavior by setting boundaries will fracture relationships. Something Brene Brown says; Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves even when we risk disappointing others. Now get out your note-taking devices and sit down for a quick sip of the good stuff. Hits you in the keister right when you need it most.
2023-06-2212 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "The lady loved cats, she had like thirty of them or something..."This one is for Rita and her herd of cats. No one is here to tell you how to donate money, but recognize certain truths about how it works and what your money is being utilized for. More than anything, this is more about financial independence. Get some classes, be wise, and be protected.
2023-06-2107 min
Unpacking with Sarah043 - Financial exploitationLong-time supporters of the show will remember how passionate Sarah was in the mini-series that took a deep dive into why she left the Mormon church. The tithing episode, in particular, was one of our most listened-to episodes so far. This episode here is a deeper look at it through the lens of exposing cult tactics, again with the BITE model and Sarah and Mason's anecdotal and observed experiences. Also, Sarah gives a fresh perspective on the famous tithing tire story. When did you last hear the term "hot check?". John Dehlin. Tithing and the LDS/M...
2023-06-191h 36
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - "Most Mormons are going to say no, they taught me good morals and good values..."Are you influenced by the devil? Are you spirtually self-reliant? Let's talk about undue influence. Reminder, every Thursday at 12:15 central time, you can ask Sarah questions in real-time. https://www.youtube.com/@daisygirlcommunications/streams
2023-06-1406 min
Unpacking with SarahTrauma Bonded - Sneak peek of the epilogueSarah reads from her upcoming book Trauma Bonded: A True Story of Navigating Attachments Forged in Complex PTSD and shares a reason why it is important to share these traumas with you. For more information, opportunities for behind the scenes stories and personal conversations with Sarah; sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook. https://www.daisygirlcommunications.com/newsletter https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092267408271
2023-06-1007 min
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - "It's not so much hypnotics that the Mormon church uses..."Reminder, we have space-age technology down at the Unpacking Mormonism labs that allows us to zoom into the future...pick up this clip from the Monday episode and deliver it back here to you on the Friday before. It's taxing, it's dangerous, but we do it for you. Dropping on Monday, we continue our cult identification and recognition series, and like we have told you before, buckle up because it's a wild ride and we are all learning something. Remember that you need to sign up for the Daisy Girl Communications newsletter and kee...
2023-06-0904 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom: The BITE modelDear listener, just because there isn't poisonous kool-aid, or tales of a spaceship coming to pick you up if you have the right shoes, that doesn't mean it isn't a cult. We offer you Steven Hassan's: BITE model. https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model/ Remember, we have a private Facebook group and you can always email us. Don't be afraid to ask questions, you aren't alone. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma Email is DaisyGirlCommunications@gmail.com Also, we NEED...
2023-06-0709 min
Unpacking with Sarah"...Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon church because of some of the sticky, icky things he did was kept from us..."Next week we start our deep dive into cults and we have brought in extra help to answer all the listener emails we know we are going to receive. Buckle up, saddle up, strap in, whatever it is you do, to get ready for a wild ride, you need to do...and none of this "well everything is a cult..." nonsense. Uh-uh, go sell that horse hockey somewhere else pal. Also a few things to inform you of. You should sign up for the Daisy Girl Newsletter and stay on top of u...
2023-06-0205 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Listener feedback, plans for season two.The greatest honor we have been given is when our listeners say things like "I finally feel like I'm understanding myself better because of your podcast..." Sign up for the Daisy Girl Newsletter and stay on top of upcoming shows, special offers and opportunites to talk to Sarah on a Zoom call. https://www.daisygirlcommunications.com/newsletter Listen, we need to talk. You have to, you just HAVE to come down to the Thursday Throwbacks at 12:15 (Central Time). It's better than a shot of espresso. Cause it stimu...
2023-05-3105 min
Unpacking with Sarah040 - Nine month reviewNine months, forty episodes, over eighteen thousand plays/downloads and a few relatives annoyed along the way. What a crazy ride it has been dear listener. Sarah and Mason share where they started and where they are and what is left to come. Tell us where you are, we'd love to hear from you down in Facebook town. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma And make sure to sign up for our newsletter and get the skinny on upcoming behind the scenes fun and special offers. https://www.daisygirlcommunications.com/ ...
2023-05-291h 02Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - A clip from next week - "That's not manipulation at all. Not at all, it's called marketing..."Season two is on the horizon, a tease of behind the scenes exclusives, a direct line to text Sarah? Adorable married flirting. We pack this clip from the future full of information...including Mason's impersonation of a gong sound...which is a 6 out of 10 at best. We love you Mason! If you want some exclusive goodies; sign up for the Daisy Girl Communications newsletter. https://www.daisygirlcommunications.com/ And you gotta, you just gotta check out the Throwdown Thursday live streams. https://www.youtub...
2023-05-2604 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - You are not the smartest person in the room. Even if you were, it doesn't matter.A question for you today dear listener. Do you often, sometimes, always...think you are the smartest person in the room? It's almost never true. Why does it matter? Why do we judge others by perceived intelligence or their vocabulary? How does this apply to high demand religions; like Mormonism? Listen to the episode and find out. A quote we have used before, but let's review. Mark Twain said: "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these...
2023-05-2407 min
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - A clip from next week - "I'm gonna say dirt-bag..."Next week, for the first time ever, Mason flys the starship Unpacking Mormonism solo. Can he keep the studio from catching fire? How will he function without Sarah flirting with him to start the show? Will he refer to himself as handsome? So many questions! Here is a clip to give you a taste. Another burning question you might have. Where can you watch these Throwback Thursday live streams that Sarah has been hosting? So glad you asked dear listener. https://www.youtube.com/@daisygirlcommunications
2023-05-1907 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Gabor Maté and In the Realm of Hungry GhostsWhen healing from acute grief or matters of addiction, oftentimes the most healing occurs in groups or activities with other individuals who have experienced similar causes of deep grief. https://drgabormate.com/book/in-the-realm-of-hungry-ghosts/ Full episode of Unpacking Mormonism here. https://open.spotify.com/episode/1LED9XhaOfSTQ0qbepet55?si=wZwFFpzhSo-CHbeG_cnmKA Our private Facebook group here. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-05-1704 min
Unpacking with Sarah038 - Sarah's HomophobiaThe intent of this episode is to identify how we all can grow as human beings, even our host Sarah Westbrook. What better way to show that, than with a recent Facebook drama that helped Sarah see how she made life difficult for someone that she loves. Sarah also announces the release date of her book, on a very important date...hint, it involves a special group of six. Other than bringing you one of the best psycho-education podcasts around, we also have a private Facebook group for you that is filled with dank memes, da...
2023-05-151h 05Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward - A clip from next week - "My book is set to release September 6th..."Family drama and a release date for Sarah's book, all in under nine minutes. Dear listener, click that play button and let's get this day started, the weekend starts here. Well technically at the end of the day, unless you call in "sick" and take the day off. We would never try to influence you that way...*wink wink. If you do take the day off, come on over to the Facebook group and let's check in, have some fun, share some tears and laughs. How's that head, how's that heart? http...
2023-05-1209 min
Unpacking with SarahThrowback Thursday - Reviewing Foundational InterventionsBetter than a shot of espresso baby. From our live stream on May 11th. Sarah answers listener questions, She also talks about who we are when we are traumatized or triggered and we talk about becoming a butterfly. Let's all learn, grow and become our best selves. Every Thursday on Facebook and YouTube 12:15 CST, 1:15 EDT, 5:15pm GMT https://www.youtube.com/@daisygirlcommunications/streams https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-05-1120 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Sarah soaks in the love at a Korean wash houseSarah recounts the healing power of bathing with others in an environment filled with women, small talk, laughter, a great sauna and lack of judgment on looks of the bodies; everyone was in a different phase in life. There was celluite, six-packs, perky parts, droopy parts and a woman trying to relax and get ready for labor. Have you ever been to a wash house? How did you find it to be? Share with us in our private Facebook group, we want to know all about you. Yes YOU! https://www.face...
2023-05-1005 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Are you lifting people up? Or weighing people down?You don't lose respect by owning your mistakes. We must recognize and own our mistakes, especially if you have hurt people. We must also learn and not repeat the same mistakes. The goal of leaders should be to work themselves out of a job. What are we talking about? Click the play button dear listeners and let's get to work. I can't believe you haven't come down to the Facebook group yet. What are you waiting for? We have been waiting on YOU this whole time. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpa...
2023-05-0311 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Mindfulness and Radical Acceptance in ActionMason is learning in real-time what radical acceptance means as it relates to his recent experiences with talking to his family about his spiritual journey. Radical acceptance is letting go of the need to control, judge and wish things were different than they are. Our private Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma Radical Acceptance: Embracing your life with the heart of a Buddha by Tara Brach. https://www.amazon.com/Radical-Acceptance-Embracing-Heart-Buddha/dp/0553380990 https://www.psych...
2023-04-2610 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - A clarification on Episode 031 "I am not broken..."Mason clarifies a story about a bishop that has been supportive of the family with appropriate boundaries and Sarah makes an announcement about a new lunch-time learning series that will be launching on YouTube this May 11th where she will review foundational topics and answer questions from listeners. What's that? You wonder if we have a Facebook group? We do! You gotta get down there and hang with us. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-04-1906 minUnpacking with SarahFlash Forward - A clip from next week - "Let's protect our joy and not engage in this bull..."Next week's episode is titled "Religious Triggers" and we want to know what yours are. In this clip Sarah swears, Mason laughs and we call it a day. What do you want, for me to write out a transcript for you? Click the link and let's get to work. Come on down to our Facebook group and sound off about those relligious triggers. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-04-1405 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Anger can be there to protect you, are you angry?Mason explores the way he feels about the SEC fine levied against the LDS church for lying about their 32 billion with a B investment portfolio that was funded by tithing. Your tithing. Maybe those are YOUR profits too? We want to hear from you. How are y'all feeling? We haven't asked in a bit. How's the head? How's the heart? https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-04-1209 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - It comes from cocaine"If medical providers, if people in committed relationships, if parents and children; if bishops, can sit in counsel and listen to understand the lived experience of the other person..." We talk about coffee, cocaine, more poop and we share some love and advice. Come on down to the Facebook group pardner. Saddle up and ride along. Yee-haw! https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-04-0531 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Accepting the things you cannot change.You are not broken. Don't give your power away. We challenge the idea that churches teach and perpetuate that we are broken and need patriarchal figures of power to save us or make us happy. This is different and subtle from accepting the notion of a higher power. Learned helplessness is useless; well it's of use to a cult to hold power over you, so there is that. Come now dear listener, there are so many of us on this journey together in our private Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/grou...
2023-03-2913 minUnpacking with SarahFlash Forward - A clip from next week - "I am a squirrel-er..."All kidding aside, Sarah shares a little on the family's journey to find a better faith-based Sunday spiritual learning tradition. Dear listener, are you also in search of a faith-based, spiritual tradition to replace something you might have left behind? Well let's talk about this journey we are all on together down at the private Facebook group we set up. Discussion, support, dank memes. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-03-2407 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Loneliness is the worst feeling in the worldSarah: "We need to belong within community and my exodus out of the church threatened YOUR belonging..." Mason: "To truly belong, I need to be authentic and be accepted as my authentic self..." We are humbled and honored to now be over 17K downloads dear listener. Please come by the private Facebook group and join a fast growing community of support and discussion as we take this journey together, every day. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-03-2227 min
Unpacking with Sarah030 - Exploring Emotions on Our Home FrontSarah and Mason show how an emotional conversation can be safe and respectful while at the same time be difficult and illuminating. Tissue warning, this is a beautiful and touching episode. Please to be saying hello to us on our private Facebook group, we would love to offer conversation and support as we all are on this journey together, so let's sound off on where we are, and where we want to be. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma Burnout The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle By Emily...
2023-03-201h 32Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wisdom - Substance abuse, alcohol, fear.Sarah: What I found interesting was when I left the church and was trying alcohol you had a paralyzing fear... Mason: I don't think it was paralyzing, I'm not saying it didn't feel that way to you... A gentle reminder dear listener that professional help is absolutely needed if you or someone you know is suffering from addiction. Also, as a reminder that Joseph Smith owned a bar and drank. Non-professional support and conversation is available in our private Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/group...
2023-03-1518 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook Wednesday Wisdom - Laugh, that was a joke damn it.Mason: "...how do I preserve that? And sometimes that's well…we need to step back or change our perspectives..." Sarah: "I disagree it's not about what's best for us...it's about what causes the least harm." Come join our private Facebook group for conversation and support. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-03-0813 min
Unpacking with Sarah028 - Sarah f@&%ing knows better.Our intention today is to understand why is it that when we know better, we don't always do better. A free piece of Daisy Girl merchandise to the listener that correctly counts all the f-bombs that are bleeped out in this episode. Make sure you listen to the end to get them all. Share your answer on our Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c3/Maslow's_hierarchy_of_needs.png M...
2023-03-061h 14Unpacking with SarahWestbrook Wednesday Wisdom - The Tantrum TreeWhen you recognize your amygdala is activated, deep breathing is your best bet; when possible of course, not always good advice for an on-duty lifeguard or fire fighter perhaps. Stay tuned for a shout out to a new city in our growing list of listeners. Rewire Your Anxious Brain. https://www.newharbinger.com/9781626251137/rewire-your-anxious-brain/ Our private Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-03-0122 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook's Wednesday Wisdom - The plan of salvation?How young is too young to exorcize your child? Listen to the full episode here. https://open.spotify.com/show/6KjeKzIAPLTzHxQIZIzHUJ Join us for discussion, opinions, support and good people. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-02-2205 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook's Wednesday Wisdom - An exercise, a thought, pink elephants."If you have resentment, you have an unhealed emotional wound..."
2023-02-1510 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook's Wednesday Wisdom - A root cause of organizational dishonestySpoiler it's almost, if not always - fear. "If I understand why my children are lying to me, if I can go ok, what are they afraid of, what's going on here, I am able to shift the environment so that I can become a safe person, that can hold and handle the truth, without creating that fear response... Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html
2023-02-0811 minUnpacking with SarahWestbrook's Wednesday Wisdom - Taking time for the positive things learned"...I learned how to love without judgment, those that are less fortunate or living their life in a way that I didn't necessarily understand that I could love them and accept where they were at..."
2023-02-0107 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook's Wednesday Wisdom - Connecting the mind and the body together and seeing how our bodies react to emotions and trauma"...this lovely man, the most lovely of us all, had to die a a vile and gruesome death on a cross to pay the price for my sins...what that did was map onto myself that their is something so vile about me that...that most violent thing had to happen. " Why I left the LDS Church - Coach Wendi Jensen: Why I left the LDS church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLNAMYScGpc Wendi Jade https://www.facebook.com/groups/2389666891074742 EMPOWERED FORMER LDS SUPPORT GR...
2023-01-2503 min
Unpacking with SarahWestbrook's Wednesday Wisdom - Emma, you need to let your husband marry other women..."Emma, eff you. I'm gonna marry other women and you better just give me permission, otherwise the lord is going to strike you down..." That's an abusive tactic AND it silences women. "it's over for you sweetheart..." Come join the discussion in our Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma
2023-01-1808 min
Unpacking with Sarah021 - Silencing Women's Voices in the ChurchSarah was in her master's program for mental health counseling when she began to recognize how often her voice was being silenced within the LDS church. Her academic work, her research was getting notoriety but it wasn't until a peer utilized her insights to further learning for a class, that she realized just how long her voice had been muted within the Mormon community. Come join the discussion and support on our Facebook page. All opinions welcome. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma Feb 2018, “What do Mormon Women Get?” Sherri L Dew
2023-01-161h 36
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward Friday - A Clip From Next Week's Episode - Mason's Family Drama Follow-UpMost people who leave Mormonism are walking away quietly. Thank the universe that our host Sarah hasn't stayed silent.
2022-12-3002 min
Unpacking with Sarah018 - Mason's Family Drama Goes Public"The above podcast is one of the most judgemental, unprofessional, know-it all, name calling, black and white, difinitive diatribe I have ever heard. And that was just in the intro..." Mason and Sarah discuss the very public and very ignorant judgment from his Aunt; the quote above is from her Facebook post which she has since attempted to scrub from the Internet. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank her for our second best week ever for listens and downloads. “7 principles for making marriage work” by John Gottman https://www.a...
2022-12-261h 58
Unpacking with SarahWednesday Wisdom - It's your job to understand where your partner is, talk about feelings firstGet your pencils out friends and let's get started: Social media is not a personal relationship, a hot take on Superman movies and good advice from Sarah and Mason on how to grow to have a loving relationship with those that you truly love. https://www.gottman.com/couples/products/ https://www.gottman.com/product/clinicians-digital-tools/
2022-12-1414 min
Unpacking with Sarah016 - How to have difficult conversationsIf you are utilizing criticism, contempt, stonewalling and defensiveness; you're not going to have the connection, the trust, the sense of belonging that you need to heal wounded relationships. This episode is about having difficult conversations. Mason and Sarah always bring us important lessons, but still filled with laughter and love. Come for the tools, stay for the debate on who is the boss of Mason. : ) You gotta check out our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma “7 principles for making marriage work” by John Gottman https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Principles-Making-Marriage-Work/dp/0...
2022-12-121h 40Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward Friday - A Clip From the Future Episode - How to talk about hard thingsNot exclusive to religious conversations...this applies to all aspects of life. Let's learn how to go further than surface deep. Every week Sarah and Mason give us the tools to make sure we are accessing our frontal cortex, rather than our amygdala to have healthy conversations that foster relationship growth.
2022-12-0902 min
Unpacking with Sarah015 - Identify Readiness for Respectful DialogueCuriosity is a gift. If you can gift curiosity to another person, another side and that leads to understanding, you are doing pretty good. One of the best parts of our show is that Sarah and Mason work out communications over difficult issues between them, in real-time for you the listeners. By the way, how is your head? How is your heart? Reach out and let us know on our Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/unpackingmormonismandotherreligioustrauma https://bodylanguagematters.com/defensive-body-language/ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/nonverbal-communication.htm
2022-12-051h 39
Unpacking with SarahWhy Sarah left the church: Episode 5 of 5 - The Grand FinaleHopefully you aren't reading this in line at a retail establishment, ready to go full feral to get a deal on a TV. In Sarah's words, no one wants to shop with that many active amygdalas, besides we got plenty of 1s and 0s for you here if you need some digital food. Welcome to the grand finale of our five part series on what Sarah found antithetical to living a mentally, physically and spiritually healthy life. She shares deeply with her experiences both lived, read and researched and how they were completely opposite of what the L...
2022-11-251h 49
Unpacking with SarahWhy Sarah left the church: Episode 4 of 5 - LGBTQIAPeople are committing suicide. How are you helping prevent others in your community from doing the same? Silence is complacency; shaming or ignoring your children is being complicit in their suffering. Welcome to the fourth part of our five part series on what Sarah found antithetical to living a mentally, physically and spiritually healthy life. She shares deeply with her experiences both lived, read and researched and how they were completely opposite of what the LDS church professed to be about. These issues are massive, world reaching and beyond any borders. They were unacceptable and kept her fr...
2022-11-241h 29
Unpacking with SarahWhy Sarah left the church: Episode 3 of 5 - Racism Tell us what you think of the mini-series in our Facebook group. Welcome to the third part of our five part series on what Sarah found antithetical to living a mentally, physically and spiritually healthy life. She shares deeply with her experiences both lived, read and researched and how they were completely opposite of what the LDS church professed to be about. These issues are massive, world reaching and beyond any borders. They were unacceptable and kept her from growing into what she felt was her best self for her family, her community both local and far beyond. Uncomfortable Con...
2022-11-231h 29
Unpacking with SarahWhy Sarah left the church: Episode 2 of 5 - TithingThis isn't a countdown, they aren't ranked in order of difficulty. Still, the enormity of the difference between what was taken and what was given, tell us what you think on our Facebook group. Welcome to our second part of our five part series on what Sarah found antithetical to living a mentally, physically and spiritually healthy life. She shares deeply with her experiences both lived, read and researched and how they were completely opposite of what the LDS church professed to be about. These issues are massive, world reaching and beyond any borders. They were unacceptable a...
2022-11-221h 24
Unpacking with SarahWhy Sarah left the church: Episode 1 of 5 - PolygamyWelcome to a five part series on what Sarah found antithetical to living a mentally, physically and spiritually healthy life. She shares deeply with her experiences both lived, read and researched and how they were completely opposite of what the LDS church professed to be about. These issues are massive, world reaching and beyond any borders. They were unacceptable and kept her from growing into what she felt was her best self for her family, her community both local and far beyond. This isn't a countdown, they aren't ranked in order of difficulty. ...
2022-11-221h 31Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward Friday - A Clip From Our Mini-Series Next WeekNext week, a five-part daily series detailing the major reasons Sarah left the church. It's heavy stuff and not to be missed. We invite y'all to come to our Facebook group; feedback, compliments, criticism and encouragement welcome. By the way. How is your head? How is your heart?
2022-11-1802 min
Unpacking with Sarah011 - Family fallout follow-up and how to talk about hard things.Sister-in-law Shannon shares with Sarah (and Mason) we still need that third microphone. Now it's your turn, share something with us. It can be "spooky". There is your obligatory Halloween tiding. “Why won’t you apologize?”-Harriet Lerner https://www.harrietlerner.com/ Unlocking us Podcast - Brené Brown, Episode 12 with Harriet Learner https://open.spotify.com/episode/2jxcLXMB672u5dpc9YqDu9 “I hear you” - Michael S Sorenson https://michaelssorensen.com/ “7 principles for making marriage work” by John Gottman https://www.gottman.com/ “Rough Stone Rolling” by Richard...
2022-10-311h 49
Unpacking with Sarah010 - Mason's Family FalloutMason takes the unpleasant and disrespectful reactions of his family in regard to the podcast and his spiritual journey, as an opportunity to take stock of his own perception. Already labeled an apostate by the church, Sarah helps Mason unpack a lot in this episode around expectations, reactions, and reactions to expectations. We shall reiterate... We don't attack a church; we don't attack someone's character. We honestly and accurately point out the things that continue to happen in religion that hurts others. It is also worth asking again. How is your he...
2022-10-241h 25
Unpacking with Sarah009 - Sarah checks in with MasonStep into a semi-time machine; when this was recorded, it was the night before the Unpacking Mormonism podcast was to launch. Sarah checks in with Mason on how study, growth and learning are being experienced in the realm of recording the podcast, as well as bringing tough questions to faith and sharing the journey with the family. *Spoiler - It sucks. Reach out and let us know how YOU are doing. How is your head? How is your heart? “Under the Banner of Heaven”, by Jon Krakauer https://www.jonkrakauer.com/books/under-the-banner-of-heaven-tr
2022-10-171h 05
Unpacking with SarahFlash Forward Friday - A Clip From the Future Episode 009Sarah shares what she thinks a crowning characteristic of love is. Happy Friday friends, we made it. Leave us a review or comment...the weekend starts here.
2022-10-1402 min
Unpacking with Sarah008 - Is Jesus the Whipping Boy?Meet Sarah's cherished friend Zoe; bosom buddies through various stages, evolutions and traumas...like being kidnapped by your own family and nearly burning a church down. The Whipping Boy http://www.sidfleischman.com/ LDS Doctrine and Covenants 19-16-19 https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/19?lang=eng Ephesians 2:8-9 https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Ephesians-2-8_2-9/ Romans 10:9-10 https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Romans-10-9_10-10/
2022-10-101h 28
Unpacking with SarahWednesday Wisdom - What is the difference between a post-traumatic stress response and a post-traumatic stress disorder?Your Westbrook Wednesday Wisdom for today. Sarah breaks down the difference between the two. Full episode 006 - Unpacking Trauma is here and we would love for you to listen, learn and grow with us.
2022-09-2806 min
Unpacking with Sarah005 - Four Pillars of Wellness & Self-CareTime for us to ask ourselves; are we practicing the type of self-care that leads to long-term wellness? Reach out and let us know how you are feeling. How is your head? How is your heart? daisygirlcommunications@gmail.com Westbrook's Pillars of Wellness: physical health, mental health, emotional health, spiritual health. Maslow's Hiearchy of Needs Reptilian complex: The reptilian complex (also known as the "R-complex", "reptilian brain" or "lizard brain") was the name MacLean gave to the basal ganglia, structures derived from the floor of the forebrain during development. The term de...
2022-09-191h 30
Unpacking with Sarah002 - Your Brain Is Not Your EnemyWe read a scripture and Sarah's amygdala sends her warning signals. How about you? Do you trust your natural instincts? Do you want to learn how to recognize your body and mind reactions responsibly and effectively? Have you ever avoided a conflict with your words? Let's get into what the heck our brains are doing with these words. Knowing why and how by checking in with your brain is an important part of learning and growing. We love hearing from you, drop us a line and let us know how your heart and head are doi...
2022-09-051h 15
Unpacking with Sarah001 - Introduction to Unpacking Mormonism And Other Religious Trauma Unpacking is in the title of the show and it applies to all of us; being self-aware requires us to be critical of unhelpful patterns, but we also have to give credit and forgive ourselves as well. Understanding why you did what you did, is extraordinarily helpful. Let's meet our hosts Sarah and her husband Mason; their playful laughter and awkward pauses introduce you to their style of learning and growing together. Sarah an ex-Mo and licensed counselor on a journey to unpack Mormonism and other religious trauma is joined by her husband Mason, a f...
2022-09-051h 27
Unpacking with SarahDo you trust your natural instincts?We read a scripture and Sarah's amygdala sends her warning signals. Do you trust your natural instincts? Do you want to learn how to recognize your body and mind reactions responsibly and effectively?
2022-09-0201 min
Unpacking with SarahTwo takes on an embellished story.One of the beautiful things about our podcast, there is room for an array of opinions. Here Sarah and Mason discuss the double-edged sword of exaggeration. A powerful tool and a dangerous one. This episode references Mormonism Live, Episode 033.
2022-08-3106 min
Unpacking with SarahModeling your identity.Just because you have changes to make in your life, you can still be in a good place. Unpacking is in the title of the show and it applies to all of us; so come join Sarah and Mason as we all learn, grow and become the best versions of ourselves. Full episodes releasing September 5th 2022.
2022-08-2901 min