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Today’s episode is one of the most raw, real, and powerful conversations we’ve had on The Motion of Gratitude Podcast. Shannon sits down with Joe Smarro, a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran, nationally recognized mental health advocate, and CEO of SolutionPoint+. You may recognize him from the Emmy Award–winning HBO documentary Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops or his TEDx talk, I See You.

But this conversation goes far deeper than credentials.

Joe shares the story behind his mission — the childhood trauma he survived, the systems he once believed in, and the turning point that brought him face-to-face with his own suffering. What unfolds is a deeply moving look at what it really takes to come back to yourself, take full ownership of your life, and help others do the same.

From surviving sexual abuse and combat trauma to transforming police departments and creating a nationally recognized mental health training model — Joe’s story is a testament to the human spirit.

This is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt broken, stuck, unseen, or afraid to feel.

🧠 We explore:

• The childhood trauma that shaped Joe’s understanding of safety, connection, and survival
• Why behavior is communication — especially when words are dismissed
• The pivotal moment that led him to choose healing over self-destruction
• Why the “mental health guy” was still hiding in shame — and how he stopped
• His revolutionary CCRTC™ model for de-escalation through curiosity and connection
• How to stop outsourcing your self-worth — and why ownership is the ultimate freedom
• Why gratitude isn’t fluff — it’s a survival skill and a path to presence
• The powerful reframe every parent, caregiver, and first responder needs to hear
• What every man should know about healing, emotions, and self-trust

🔥 One of our favorite quotes from Joe:

“I’ve learned to become grateful for the things I wish never happened.”

🛠️ Tools + Takeaways:

• The 90-second rule for emotional awareness
• How to rewire your beliefs through daily micro-practices
• The difference between suffering and self-induced suffering
• How to teach resilience and emotional regulation to the next generation
• The connection between presence, gratitude, and suicide prevention

📚 Mentioned in this Episode:

• Joe’s book: Unarmed: Building Connection Through Courage, Compassion, and Communication
• Joe’s company:

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Looking forward to connecting with you!