We've all seen the posts: "That's trauma." But the truth is less straightforward. Today we're unpacking the complex reality of trauma—what it actually is, how it differs from PTSD, and why understanding the nuance matters for your healing.

In conversation, we tackle:

* Why trauma and PTSD aren't the same thing (only 6% of people who experience trauma develop PTSD)

* The crucial differences between big T and little T trauma—and why both matter

* How vicarious trauma from social media is real but different from direct trauma

* Why your support system might be the biggest factor in whether something becomes traumatic

* The difference between processing, intellectualizing, and ruminating (and why you need to know)

* How parasocial relationships are blurring the lines between secondary and vicarious trauma

* Why sitting with pain is different from dwelling in it

* Sam's powerful story from 5+ years in a Level 1 trauma ER and what secondary trauma really looks like

* How to build new neural pathways when trauma has you stuck on the same highway

* The hope: why the solution is the same regardless of your entry point

Content Note: This episode contains discussion of medical trauma, death, and emergency situations. We share real experiences to illustrate important concepts about secondary trauma and healing. Please take care of yourself while listening.

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