Taboo Talk with Sarah
Taboo Talk with Sarah
Podcast Description
Taboo Talk with Sarah is the podcast that breaks the silence on life’s toughest challenges. From grief and mental wellness to caregiving and the cracks in the healthcare system, we dive into the topics no one talks about but everyone feels. Together, we’ll foster hope, build connection, and remind you that you’re never alone.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers critical themes surrounding grief, mental wellness, caregiving, and the healthcare system's failures. For example, Episode 05 discusses chronic stress and how to reset the nervous system, while Episode 04 dives into the youth mental health crisis with insights on creating safe spaces for young people.

Taboo Talk with Sarah is the podcast that breaks the silence on life’s toughest challenges. From grief and mental wellness to caregiving and the cracks in the healthcare system, we dive into the topics no one talks about but everyone feels. Together, we’ll foster hope, build connection, and remind you that you’re never alone.
🔑 Main Topics & Takeaways
1. Your past doesn’t have to define you
After addiction led to his discharge from the Army, Richard found his way back into military service. He reflects on the experiences that shaped him and his belief that meaningful change can begin with a decision.
2. Recovery takes awareness and ongoing commitment
Approaching 37 years in recovery, Richard discusses recognising triggers, maintaining boundaries and why addiction isn’t simply something a person can switch off.
3. Even the strong ones need support
Richard openly discusses his two suicide attempts, ongoing mental health challenges and the importance of telling his wife when he’s struggling. Being resilient doesn’t mean never needing help.
4. Look after the people closest to you
Richard recalls realising he was so focused on helping others that he’d overlooked his wife’s needs. Sarah and Richard explore listening, empathy, relationships and the importance of supporting those at home.
5. Everyone has a comeback story
Whether you’re facing addiction, loss, mental health challenges or uncertainty, Richard believes the next step matters. His message is to keep reaching out, keep learning and remember that your story isn’t finished.
🗣️ Memorable Quotes
“The three greatest words in the English language are today I decide.” — Richard Kaufman
“Sometimes when you’re the strong one, you get tired of taking the arrows for everybody.” — Richard Kaufman
“Let’s be okay not okay together.” — Richard Kaufman
⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps
- 00:00 – Meet Richard Kaufman, The Comeback Coach
- 02:37 – The man in the mirror and personal growth
- 04:49 – Addiction, arrest and discharge from the Army
- 06:00 – Returning to military service and the impact of 9/11
- 07:11 – Three powerful words: Today I decide
- 09:45 – Understanding addiction and long-term recovery
- 13:15 – Recognising triggers and protecting recovery
- 14:12 – Suicide attempts, mental health and asking for support
- 16:04 – Why even coaches need coaches
- 19:28 – What being The Comeback Coach really means
- 20:57 – The power of showing up one more time
- 23:44 – Why we shouldn’t judge people struggling with addiction
- 24:44 – You never know who might need your encouragement
- 26:36 – Helping your family before helping the world
- 27:34 – Love languages, listening and marriage
- 31:27 – Richard’s books and supporting veterans
- 32:46 – Podcasting with power, purpose and profit
- 35:27 – Everyone has a story worth sharing
- 36:17 – What gives Richard hope
- 38:13 – Choosing who you become: Today I decide
- 39:53 – Sarah’s closing reflections on resilience and connection
🌟 Guest & Resources
Richard Kaufman is a US Army veteran, author, host of the Vertical Momentum Podcast and The Comeback Coach. He shares his experiences of addiction, recovery and mental health to encourage others to seek support and find purpose.
Connect with Richard:
- Richard’s links and books:https://linktr.ee/VerticalMomentum
- LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-kaufman-989757139/
- Vertical Momentum Podcast (Apple):https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/vertical-momentum-resiliency-podcast-2-0/id1587033757
- Vertical Momentum Podcast (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/show/1AVDzGn31ZRpzBdBIREhgo
- The Power of Proximity and Mindset with Adrian Boysel:https://open.spotify.com/show/1AVDzGn31ZRpzBdBIREhgo
- The Podcasting Blueprint:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7NLYP2W
Voice To Influence™:
- Community:https://voicetoinfluence.com/
- Michael Silvers:https://voicetoinfluence.com/faculty/michael-silvers
- Events:https://voicetoinfluence.com/events

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