The Message In The Mess!
Mission Statement
The Message in the Mess is my heart’s work—born from a deep belief that even in life’s hardest, most chaotic moments, there is something sacred to be found. My mission is to help others uncover the beauty, truth, and growth that often hide within the mess. Through honest conversations, personal stories, and compassionate insight, I aim to create a space where healing begins, humor is welcome, and vulnerability is celebrated. I believe every mess carries a message—and it’s my purpose and passion to help bring those messages to light. This podcast is not just something I do—it’s a part of who I am.
The Message In The Mess!
What does healing really look like when you live with anxiety, PTSD, and social anxiety?
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Fear Can Come Along, But It Doesn't Get to Drive
What does healing really look like when you live with anxiety, PTSD, and social anxiety?
For me, it doesn't mean the fear has disappeared. It means I'm learning that fear can come along for the ride—but it doesn't get to drive anymore.
In this deeply personal episode of The Message in the Mess, I'm sharing what happened when a motorcycle trip to Colorado brought the trauma of witnessing the loss of our friend rushing back, and how getting back on the bike required a kind of courage I wasn't sure I had.
Then came Sturgis.
Long motorcycle rides. Thousands of people. Crowded places. Unfamiliar roads. New experiences. And even a helicopter ride!
The woman who once felt constantly on high alert suddenly realized something had changed.
I had changed.
Not because my anxiety or PTSD magically disappeared, but because I've built a toolbox that helps me find my way back when fear takes over.
I'm sharing the grounding techniques that help me during panic, the importance of therapy and finding the right therapist, why there should be zero shame around appropriately prescribed medication, the support I've received from my husband, and what I'm learning about being patient with myself through the healing process.
After twelve years of healing from domestic violence and more than three years since witnessing a devastating motorcycle tragedy, I've learned that a trigger doesn't erase your progress. A flashback doesn't mean you've failed. And having a difficult day doesn't put you back at the beginning.
Sometimes healing looks like recognizing the fear, reaching into your toolbox…and continuing anyway.
If you're struggling with anxiety, PTSD, social anxiety, or the aftermath of trauma, I hope this episode reminds you of one thing:
Your brave doesn't have to look like anyone else's brave.
Give yourself grace. Ask for help. Find the tools that work for you. And please don't stop living while you're waiting to feel completely healed.
Because even after our darkest moments, there can still be so much life waiting for us.
Fear can come along for the ride. But it doesn't get to drive anymore.
Content note: This episode includes discussion of domestic violence, PTSD, anxiety, and a fatal motorcycle accident.