Breaking the Silence: An Inside Look at a Cult-Like Sect and Overcoming Trauma

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredricks welcomes guest Chasya, who shares her experiences growing up in a strict, cult-like Orthodox Jewish community. Chasya discusses the societal and familial pressures, the extreme measures taken to maintain modesty and control, as well as the systemic issues of abuse within the community. The discussion delves into how such an environment impacted her mental health, leading to a journey of overcoming trauma and finding freedom. Hasia emphasizes the importance of breaking free from toxic situations and the healing power of understanding and speaking one's truth.

This insightful episode from the Free Like Me podcast features a compelling discussion between host Clark Fredericks, Dr. Tom Shea, and other guests on the critical topics of trauma, anxiety, and healing. Drawing from personal stories, including Clark's time in prison and Tom's experiences with panic attacks, the conversation covers the importance of confronting trauma, the challenges it presents, and various coping mechanisms such as therapy, lifestyle changes, and supportive conversations. Key themes include the transformative nature of transparency, the role of physical activity, the importance of routine, and the benefits of quitting substances that aggravate mental health issues. The episode emphasizes the power of sharing experiences, being present for others, and adopting daily practices for mental well-being, advocating for a more open dialogue around mental health in all spheres, especially those under high stress.

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks is joined by Eric, who shares his heart-wrenching story of losing both his parents, his two sons to tragic circumstances, and ultimately his marriage. Eric discusses the heavy toll of grief, the importance of speaking out about one's pain, and the healing power of support groups and therapy. The conversation delves into the details of his sons' lives and the different paths their grief took them on, as well as Eric's own struggle with addiction and finding new meaning in life through helping others. The episode emphasizes the significance of not facing grief alone, the therapeutic value of expressing one's story, and the transformative effect of giving back to the community.

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, Clark Fredericks hosts Annie J. , who shares her tumultuous journey from pursuing ballet in New York City to her struggles with alcoholism and subsequent recovery. Annie recounts her childhood in Michigan, her early aspirations as a ballerina, and how her life took a dark turn due to injury and addiction. She discusses hitting rock bottom, her transformative experience in rehab, and how she rebuilt her life from scratch, ultimately finding peace and purpose. The conversation also touches on the importance of support systems in recovery and the power of sharing one's story to overcome shame and find healing.

03:18 Annie's Journey: From Michigan to New York City
03:25 The Struggles of a Young Ballerina: Education, Family, and Early Party Life
12:10 The Downward Spiral: Alcoholism and Its Consequences
22:40 The Harsh Reality of Addiction: Hospital Visits and Lost Opportunities
29:26 The Struggle with Perfection and Isolation
30:37 The Turning Point: From Decadence to Desperation
32:17 The Journey to Rehab: A Desperate Cry for Help
34:22 The Harsh Reality of Rehab and Intervention
37:00 Finding Hope and Healing in Rehab
41:19 The Road to Recovery: Halfway House and Beyond
51:05 Rebuilding Relationships and Embracing Sobriety
01:01:08 The Transformation: From Chaos to Serenity

Overcoming Addiction and Abuse: A Priest's Journey to Redemption

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks engages in a profound discussion with Father Robert Griner, exploring his tumultuous journey from a seemingly perfect upbringing to confronting deep-seated issues of violence, alcoholism, and the complexities of recovery. Griner candidly shares his experiences, from childhood trauma to his eventual spiraling into alcohol dependence while serving as a priest. The conversation delves into the transformative power of truth, vulnerability, and the grace found in recovery, illustrating how the lowest points in life can lead to redemption, healing, and a newfound purpose. This episode not only shatters the myths surrounding who can be affected by addiction but also offers hope and encouragement to those facing similar battles.

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks engages in a profound conversation with Derek Pivka, a former jail guard and Clark's friend from his time in the Sussex County Jail. Derek shares his journey from working as a corrections officer, his traumatic experience of leading a search for a drowned swimmer, to his ultimate decision to leave the job for a healthier environment. They discuss coping with PTSD, the importance of speaking up about trauma, and how taking proactive steps like volunteering and pursuing further education can lead to personal and professional growth. Derek's story is one of overcoming adversity, embracing change, and the power of friendship in unexpected places.

In this episode of the 'Free Like Me' podcast, Clark Fredericks hosts Michelle, a wife, mother, advocate, and a survivor of sexual abuse. Michelle shares her harrowing experiences of abuse at the hands of her stepfather and his father, the lack of support from her mother, and the profound impact this trauma had on her life, including struggles with sadness, anger, and the pursuit of healing. She discusses the importance of speaking out, seeking therapy, and finding community support as steps toward recovery. Highlighting her advocacy work and offering hope to others, Michelle emphasizes the power within to overcome trauma and reclaim joy and peace in life. This episode serves as a profound conversation on the realities of surviving abuse and the journey towards healing and empowerment.