This episode features a conversation with Jill McMahon, a licensed professional counselor, trauma specialist, and gun violence survivor who shares her personal journey and professional insights.

In this deeply moving interview, Jill discusses the unique challenges faced by gun violence survivors, the neurobiological effects of trauma on the brain, and effective approaches to healing.

Drawing from both her personal experience of being held hostage at gunpoint as a child and her two decades of clinical work, Jill offers compassionate guidance for survivors, caregivers, and mental health professionals.

Her book "Bulletproof: Healing After Gun Violence and Trauma" serves as a toolkit for understanding and recovering from trauma, with a powerful message that healing is possible and that survivors can emerge with a richer perspective on life.

[01:01] Jill McMahon's Personal Story of Gun Violence

[04:22] Challenges Faced by Gun Violence Survivors

[08:09] Physiological and Biological Responses to Trauma

[12:58] Healing and Regaining Control

[19:00] The Role of Caregivers and Secondary Victims

[23:59] Gaps in Traditional Trauma Treatment

[26:40] Hope and Final Thoughts

LINKS:

Jill's Book

Jill's Website