Just for Today Podcast

di Adriana Sansam

Stagione 1

What Is EMDR? Two Trauma Therapists Explain the Therapy That's Changing How We Heal

What if a single therapy session could resolve a trauma you've carried for years? In this episode, Adriana sits down with Dina and Julie — two licensed EMDR therapists with over 40 years of combined experience and the team behind EMDR Transformations Counseling in Gilbert, Arizona — to demystify one of the most talked-about and misunderstood trauma treatments out there. They break down what EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) actually is, why trauma gets "stuck" in the brain and body, and how bilateral stimulation helps the logical and emotional sides of the brain finally process what happened — without hypnosis, and while you stay fully awake and in control. They get into why EMDR can work dramatically faster than traditional talk therapy, what it can treat (single-incident trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, phobias, addiction, and more), and what a session actually looks like, including virtual EMDR done from your own home. They also discuss a newer clinical offering in their practice: ketamine-assisted EMDR therapy — what it is and how it's used in a supervised, prescribed setting as part of professional treatment. This portion is educational only and is not medical advice or a recommendation; decisions about any medication or treatment should be made with a licensed medical provider. Plus, a simple grounding technique you can use the next time you feel overwhelmed. Whether you're trauma-curious, considering therapy, or just want to understand how healing actually works in the brain, this conversation makes it click. ⸻ ⚠️ Content & medical disclaimer: This episode discusses trauma, abuse, addiction, and mental health treatment, including ketamine-assisted therapy in a clinical context. It is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not an endorsement or promotion of any medication or treatment. Always consult a licensed medical or mental health professional about your own care. 💛 Mental health support: • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org (free, confidential, 24/7, US) • SAMHSA National Helpline (free, confidential treatment referrals) — 1-800-662-4357 • Find a licensed EMDR therapist — emdria.org Outside the US? Find your local helpline at findahelpline.com. ⸻ About the guests Dina and Julie are licensed EMDR therapists and the team behind EMDR Transformations Counseling, LLC in Gilbert, AZ, specializing in EMDR therapy. Follow them: @emdrinaz · emdrtransformationscounseling.com Follow Just for Today: [@justfortodaypodcast] Host: Adriana Sansam [@adrianasansam] New episodes every [day]. If these conversations help you, please like, share, and subscribe — and don't forget: just for today, keep going. 💛

S1 · E38

24 giu 2026

1:08:25

"Diagnosed Saturday. Gone Monday." A Young Widow's Story

Annie (@annieafter_) met Zach doing summer sales in California and married fast, the way you do when you just know. He was 26 and healthy — until sudden symptoms led to a rare, aggressive cancer diagnosis. The doctor said it was "95% curable." Two days later, Annie was a widow. In this episode, Annie shares the timeline most people never hear: the hospital, the moment she watched his heart rate fall when she hugged him, the question he asked her on the way to chemo, the phone she spent six months unlocking after he died, and why she refuses to "get over" her grief — because her grief is just her love for Zach. Heavy, honest, and at moments even funny, because that's the reality of grief. Content note: This episode discusses terminal illness, sudden death, and grief, and includes some strong language. Please listen with care. If you're struggling, you're not alone: • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 (US, 24/7) • Modern Widows Club — modernwidowsclub.org • Soaring Spirits International — soaringspirits.org Outside the US: findahelpline.com Follow the show: @justfortodaypodcast Host: Adriana Sansam @adrianasansam

S1 · E36

10 giu 2026

1:12:18

"I Felt His Last Breath": Kelle's Story of Grief, Addiction, Recovery & Placing Her Son for Adoption

Esplicito

In this raw and unforgettable episode of the Just For Today Podcast, host Adriana Sansam sits down with Kelle Bott for one of the most emotional conversations of the season — a story of grief, alcohol addiction, recovery, and a mother's love that defies words. Kelle was just 18 when she lost her father, Jared, after he was hospitalized with pneumonia and put on a ventilator. She shares the harrowing details of being by his side as her family made the impossible decision to let him go — and how the day she felt his last breath, a piece of her "died with him." What followed was a two-year battle with alcohol addiction that nearly killed her. Kelle opens up with zero filter about drinking to numb her grief, life-threatening alcohol withdrawals, being wrongly discharged from treatment, hitting rock bottom, and the moment she finally surrendered and checked into detox and residential treatment at 20 years old. She explains the difference between numbing pain and actually grieving, why she calls herself "clean" rather than an addict, and how she learned to grieve experiences she'll never get back. In the second half, Kelle bravely shares her adoption journey — discovering she was pregnant just before one year clean, choosing to place her son for adoption, and finding the family that felt "meant to be." She named her baby after her late father, and the open adoption she describes is a heartbreaking, beautiful testament to selfless love. This episode covers: Losing a parent young and anticipatory vs. sudden grief How unresolved grief can lead to alcohol addiction What alcohol withdrawal and detox are really like (and why they can be deadly) The road through residential treatment, surrender, and self-forgiveness Breaking the stigma around addiction: "Why don't they just stop?" Choosing open adoption and parenting from a place of love Finding hope at the lowest of lows Whether you're navigating grief, supporting a loved one through addiction, in recovery yourself, or considering adoption, Kelle's story is a powerful reminder that the dark days end — and that "everything happens for you, not to you." 🎙️ Hosted by @AdrianaSansam CONNECT WITH US: ► TikTok: justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@justfortoday-podcastI f you want to continue to be part of these conversations, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe — and remember, just for today, keep going. ⚠️ Content Disclaimer: This episode discusses topics that may be sensitive or triggering for some listeners, including addiction, substance abuse, death, mental health struggles, and trauma. The stories shared are personal experiences intended for informational and educational purposes only. They do not constitute professional advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional counseling or treatment. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, help is available through SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-988 (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

S1 · E35

3 giu 2026

1:17:42

Her Husband Died 5 Weeks After She Gave Birth | EP 34 | Just for Today Podcast

Esplicito

In this deeply emotional episode of the Just for Today Podcast, Adriana sits down with Maddie Davidson, a young widow, mother of two little boys, and woman of faith, who lost her husband Austin in the most unimaginable way. Austin was a wildland firefighter, a duck-hunting jokester, and the love of Maddie's life for almost ten years. Then, just five and a half weeks after their second son was born, a freak bee attack at work triggered a massive heart attack that took him in seconds. One moment he was teasing her in the living room. The next, she was performing CPR on her bathroom floor. This conversation is raw, faith-filled, and unflinchingly honest about what sudden loss really looks like when you're young, in love, and holding a newborn. Connect with Maddie ► Instagram: @maddscott13 Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

S1 · E34

27 mag 2026

1:04:30

How Mushrooms, Ketamine, and AI Therapy Saved My Life | EP 33 | Just for Today Podcast

In this episode, Adriana sits down with Marilyn, a nurse she met during her time at a ketamine clinic. Marilyn shares her deeply raw and ongoing journey of healing from profound childhood trauma, which included domestic violence and sexual abuse. She opens up about the struggles of her early life, fleeing across the country to escape her abusive father, and later falling into a highly controlling religion that eventually kicked her out. This conversation dives into the realities of living with complex PTSD and battling suicidal ideation. Marilyn bravely recounts her suicide attempts and the miraculous moment a microdose of mushrooms stopped her from taking her own life. She also discusses how ketamine therapy ultimately cured her suicidal thoughts and shifted her entire worldview. Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

S1 · E33

29 apr 2026

1:15:13

The Secret That Broke Me: Surviving Childhood Abuse & Addiction | EP 32 | Just for Today Podcast

In this deeply emotional episode of the Just For Today podcast , Adriana sits down with Daniel Goulding from Echoes Church for an unfiltered conversation about trauma, addiction, and redemption. Daniel bravely opens up about the childhood abuse that derailed his life at just 9 or 10 years old. He explains how carrying that heavy secret pushed him into a dark spiral of manipulation , living a completely fake life , and battling a severe cocaine addiction. He recounts his terrifying rock-bottom moment in a bathroom with a weapon , and the unexplainable wave of peace that ultimately saved his life. Adriana also shares her own heartbreaking vulnerability, discussing the tragic loss of her husband Eric to an overdose and the unexpected peace she felt when seeing him at the funeral home, knowing his suffering was finally over. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of parenting after experiencing severe trauma. Daniel explains his strict rule against childhood sleepovers to protect his kids , and they both discuss the absolute necessity of bringing dark secrets into the light to break their power. Connect with Daniel ► Instagram: @danielmgoulding Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

S1 · E32

22 apr 2026

1:08:54

Why We Can't "Just Stop": The Real Science of Trauma and Addiction | EP 31 | Just for Today Podcast

In this episode of the Just For Today podcast, Adriana sits down with Dr. Storage, a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, to explore the deep connections between grief, trauma, and addiction. Adriana shares her personal journey of navigating the loss of her husband Eric and raising three young, grieving children. Dr. Storage explains that mental health is physical brain health, breaking down how emotionally traumatic experiences can literally alter blood flow and activity in the brain. This conversation dives deep into: - The reality that trauma gets locked into the brain at the specific developmental age at which it occurred. - Why children often experience and display grief as behavioral changes, anger, or developmental regression rather than just sadness. - The science behind addiction, explaining how substances hijack the brain's dopamine system, causing individuals to chase a feeling of normalcy rather than a high. - Why treating addiction requires addressing underlying root causes, such as unprocessed trauma or untreated ADHD. - Practical parenting advice for helping grieving or frustrated children, emphasizing the concept of connection over correction. - Three foundational pillars for protecting and healing your brain: sleep, exercise, and nutrition. Connect with Dr. Steven Storage ► Instagram: @drstevenstorage Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

S1 · E31

15 apr 2026

1:20:35

Widow Q&A: Dating Again, In-Laws, and Letting Go of Guilt | EP 30 | Just for Today Podcast

Welcome back to the Just For Today podcast, where we tackle the uncomfortable topics with zero filters. In this episode, Adriana is joined again by Morgan, who lost her husband 14 months ago, to answer your most asked questions about navigating life as a young widow.From the sheer exhaustion of solo parenting to the fear of what others think when you start moving forward, no topic is off-limits. Whether you are walking through your own grief journey or want to know how to truly support a friend in the trenches, this episode is packed with raw truths and practical advice.In this episode, we dive into:How to find time for yourself without a partner to pick up the slack.Navigating the changing dynamics and boundaries with your in-laws.The terrifying transition of dating again and letting go of the need for everyone's approval.Trying to manage a shattered nervous system while parenting grieving toddlers alone.The critical necessity of getting wills and life insurance in place before the unthinkable happens.The debate on what to do with sentimental items and wedding gifts from a late husband.The ultimate guide on how to actually help a grieving friend, including why you should buy diapers, handle the yard work, and skip the traditional meal train.Just for today, keep going. If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe so we can continue having these important conversations.Would you like me to draft a few shorter social media captions (like for Instagram or TikTok) using quotes from this transcript to help promote the episode? Connect with Morgan ► Instagram: @widowinbloom Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

S1 · E30

25 mar 2026

1:22:21

What Grief Looks Like After Losing a Son to Fentanyl | EP 29 | Just for Today Podcast

In this deeply emotional episode of Just for Today, Lindsey shares the story of losing her 17-year-old son Alex to a fentanyl overdose. She opens up about who he was beyond addiction, how his struggles began, the devastating progression that changed their family forever, and what it means to live with unimaginable grief. This conversation is raw, honest, and heartbreaking, touching on addiction, loss, trauma, parenting, and the painful reality of loving someone through crisis. Content warning: This episode contains discussion of addiction, overdose, grief, trauma, child loss, and substance use. Listener discretion is advised. Connect with Lindsey ► Instagram: @freedomsoulsoldier Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort.

S1 · E29

18 mar 2026

1:10:40

The 1 AM Knock That Changed Everything | EP 28 | Just for Today Podcast

In this candid and emotional episode of the Just for Today podcast, Adriana sits down with her friend Tori, whom she connected with at Camp Widow. Tori opens up about the tragic loss of her husband, Tyler, to an accidental fentanyl overdose in 2021. Diving into the uncomfortable truths of grief and survival, this episode explores: The Weight of Addiction: Tori discusses the heavy burden and anticipatory grief of loving an addict, and the constant fear of waiting for the worst to happen. A Mother's Nightmare: She courageously recounts the harrowing night the police knocked on her door, and the heartbreaking reality of having to shatter her three young children's world with the news of their father's death. Shattering the Stigma: The conversation addresses the isolation of stigmatized grief, and how Tori proactively navigates difficult, boundary-setting conversations about drugs with her kids today. The Beautiful Chaos of Blending: Approaching the five-year mark of her loss, Tori shares her journey of marrying a fellow widower and the hard, messy work of blending a family of five children—with a new baby on the way. Tori’s story is a profound reminder that even after years of darkness, it is entirely possible to step back into the light and experience true joy again. Connect with Tori≈ ► Instagram: @toriteep Connect with Adriana ► TikTok: @justfortodaypodcast ► Instagram: @justfortodaypodcast ► YouTube: @justfortodaypodcast This podcast was produced by Scufd Studio Pvt. Ltd. For permissions, inquiries, or collaboration, please contact hello@scufdstudio.com Like and subscribe if this episode gave you chills, changed your perspective, or brought you comfort. Share your own spiritual experiences in the comments below.

S1 · E28

11 mar 2026

55:50

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