"Whatever your trauma is, just know that somehow, some way it could be used to help another human being."

On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes Frank Meeink, former white supremacist turned peer support specialist and recovery advocate, for a candid conversation about how honesty, humility, and service transformed his relationship with himself and others. Frank shares how decades of addiction, loss, and repeated relapse eventually led him to a moment of spiritual surrender, and how that turning point reshaped everything.

From his daily "God walks" and the personal mantra STAY (Stop Thinking About Yourself) to his work as an undercover recovery specialist connecting unhoused individuals with resources in downtown Los Angeles, Frank illustrates what it looks like to convert lived pain into genuine connection. The pair explores why saying "me too" can break through isolation, how letting go of resentments and the need to be the center of attention builds real self-esteem, and why highlighting someone's strengths alongside their struggles creates space for lasting change. Frank also reflects on the power of the "broken vessel" metaphor, the importance of sharing our stories only in service rather than performance, and why recovery is not about willpower but about surrendering to something greater and showing up for others each day.

We invite you to listen to the full episode and follow Transforming Trauma on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.

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SPACE:

SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join.

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The Complex Trauma Training Center:

https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com

View upcoming trainings:

https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/

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The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC also offers the SPACE Inner Development Program for Therapists, providing a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal. The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care.

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