Surviving-ISH Podcast

Send us Fan Mail

When the world seems to weigh heavily upon our shoulders, stories of resilience can light the path through darkness. Our latest episode is a testament to that very spirit, Dr. Evelyn Higgins of Wired BioHealth shares her personal journey. Their story, intertwined with professional insights on the science of pain and addiction, illuminates the individuality of trauma and the pioneering use of biomarkers for custom-fit mental health treatments. It's a powerful reminder that while our struggles are unique, they are also universal threads in the human tapestry, providing connection and understanding.

The echoes of trauma can sometimes ripple through our lives in unexpected ways, as David, a survivor of a hate crime, bravely recounts. His narrative underscores the necessity of a nurturing support system for healing and the invisible scars left by such experiences. Through our conversation, we shed light on the importance of empathy and support from loved ones, and we explore the promising potential of genetic testing to tailor mental health care to our individual genetic blueprints, offering hope for a future where mental health stigma is a relic of the past.

We conclude with a resonant discussion on the long shadow cast by generational abuse and the transformative power of mental health therapy in breaking the cycle. This episode takes a hard look at the responsibility we carry for the emotional well-being of the next generation, especially in the wake of COVID-19's mental health aftermath. The candid stories shared here, including insights on how high-profile cases have shifted our collective understanding, are a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to reclaim control over their life's narrative. Join us for an episode that not only confronts the dark corners of human experiences but also celebrates the indomitable strength found within them.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Caleb, a Des Moines-based therapist, steps into the spotlight sharing not just his expertise, but a slice of his own journey with us. The resonance in his voice when discussing the intricate dance between trauma and its lasting marks on our psyche is undeniable. He takes us behind the curtains, revealing how trauma intricately weaves itself into the fabric of our being, affecting everything from our mental health to our brain's very structure. This isn't just a conversation—it's a masterclass in understanding the shadows cast by our most difficult experiences.

With each chapter, Caleb paints a picture of the brain's remarkable yet vulnerable architecture—and how it's sculpted by the experiences we wish we could forget. His candid revelations about his own struggles with obsessive behaviors underscore the urgency of self-care, especially within the survivor community. As he explains the transformative potential of trauma-informed therapies, it's clear that this episode offers not just insight but also hope; a blueprint for healing that acknowledges our brains' impressive capacity to adapt and grow, even after the deepest wounds.

Our dialogue culminates in an exploration of the nuanced ways trauma influences our judgment, self-awareness, and even our interaction with the world around us. Caleb doesn't shy away from the tough topics, discussing the distortions that electronic communication can introduce and the cultural currents that shape our responses to trauma. His call to action is simple yet profound: Embrace self-care and therapy as non-negotiable pillars in the pursuit of not just surviving but truly thriving post-trauma. Join us for this powerful episode where personal battles, professional insights, and practical strategies converge to guide those touched by trauma towards a path of recovery.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

When Anna Nasset speaks, you can't help but be engulfed by her story of transformation from victim to a beacon of hope for others. Her narrative, which stretches from the quiet scenery of Washington to Vermont's protective Green Mountains, is not just a tale of personal endurance but also a rallying cry for awareness. Our latest podcast episode gives voice to Anna's incredible journey of surviving a stalker whose actions led to the most severe stalking sentence in U.S. history, her founding of Stand Up Resources, and the critical importance of community support and belief in the survivor's story.

Stalking affects countless lives, yet it remains shrouded in societal misconceptions and insufficient protective measures. This episode brings to the forefront the real and often unseen impacts of stalking: the emotional scars, the financial devastation of having to close a business, and the complex dance of seeking safety. With Anna's experience as our guide, we traverse the landscape of the legal system, the hurdles faced on college campuses and military bases, and the misguided advice that places the burden on victims. It's a discussion that casts light on broader societal issues and underlines the dire need for change.

Finally, we contemplate the significance of public support for survivors and normalize conversations about abuse. Through Anna's insight, we learn the power of supportive messages and the "Start by Believing" campaign in altering public perception and response. Her story is a testament to survivorship and the undeniable importance of respecting personal boundaries. Connect with Anna through her social media and Stand Up Resources, as we eagerly anticipate next week's episode, where we continue to chart the path of healing and resilience.

https://www.standupresources.com/

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

When the ground beneath you gives way, it's your roots that determine whether you stand or fall. Jacob Fraser, once Beau  Delacroix, joins us to share the profound shifts in his life's landscape, from uprooting past abuse to replanting in the fertile soil of therapy and introspection. His narrative isn't just a story of survival; it's a blueprint for blooming in the face of adversity, offering listeners a map through the sometimes treacherous terrain of personal growth and relationship dynamics.

Our conversation weaves through the raw aftermath of a breakup, the sting of false accusations, and the necessity of setting boundaries to safeguard one's emotional well-being. Jacob's candidness guides us through the complexities of navigating a legal system that's often ill-equipped for the intricacies of intimate conflict, and how the echoes of these experiences ripple out into family, friendships, and societal perceptions. His insights are a lighthouse for anyone traversing the murky waters of ending a relationship while maintaining a sense of self.

We round out the episode exploring the healing power of acknowledgment—how facing our past traumas can illuminate the path to a healthier future. The interplay between mental health and relationships serves as a cornerstone of our dialogue, shedding light on the delicate balance of trust, intimacy, and the resilience needed when one's mental health casts shadows upon love and connection. Join us and Jacob for a compelling exploration into the heart of healing, the art of communication, and the ongoing quest for inner peace amidst life's chaos.

https://onlyfans.com/beaudelacroix
http://www.tiktok.com/@beau_delacroix

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Cindy Benezra, an author, inspirational speaker, entrepreneur, and sexual abuse advocate. Cindy shares her personal experiences with sexual abuse and how she turned that into a platform for awareness and inspiration called "Cindy Talks." She emphasizes the power of forgiveness, resilience, and communication in dealing with her trauma. The podcast host shares and links his personal experiences with Cindy's, leading to a raw, open and impactful exchange.

https://cindytalks.com/

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B09JV4BCPW/about

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this interview, Alyse, a survivor of domestic abuse, entrepreneur, author, and CEO, shares her intensely personal journey overcoming generational poverty and trauma to empower others in similar circumstances. She candidly discusses her foundation, Redefined, which has raised millions in scholarships for underprivileged children, as well as her forthcoming memoir, 'The Anger She Keeps.' She bravely details her experiences with the court system, the struggles in proving her case, and the empowering decision to take control of her anger and use it as a fuel for change. This interview provides a powerful dialogue about trauma, healing, resilience, and social change.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/redefiningeducation
https://www.redefiningeducation.org/about-us/

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this Surviving Podcast episode, we hear an emotional conversation about trauma, gender identity, military service, and survival. Join our guest, Azarea as they courageously share their personal journey of trauma which began with sexual abuse at eight years old followed by internal conflicts within their gender identity. Azareal also discusses their struggles with survivor guilt from their military service under the era of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'. In the end, find hope as Azareashares their healing process through self-care, music, and their presence on social platforms like TikTok.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Few of us have been through the wringer as profoundly as our guest, TJ Butler. This courageous trauma survivor and author gives us an up-close and personal look into her experiences in the adult industry, along with the trials and triumphs of growing up amid domestic violence and aging out of foster care. Our conversation dances between powerful themes of boundary-setting, forgiveness, and the long journey of unpacking trauma.

We’ll journey through uncharted territory as we discuss how platforms like OnlyFans are revolutionizing the adult entertainment sector. We share our experiences and insights about the importance of agency, power dynamics, and consent in various situations. Often, societal pressures can make us feel as if our voice doesn't matter, but we're striving to change that narrative.

Towards the end, we focus on forgiveness. It can be a complex process, especially when it comes to forgiving ourselves. We explore ways to escape the victim mindset and navigate the lifelong process of unpacking emotional baggage. It’s not about staying stuck in the past, but understanding it to shape a better future. We wrap things up by extending a heart-felt thank you to our brave guests for sharing their stories. You too can embark on your journey towards healing and resilience. You are deserving of love, happiness, and an abundance of healing. Join us and find your own path to resilience and recovery.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Ever felt shackled by past traumas and haunted by grief? Unravel the journey of John Henry Parker, the author of "Be the Dawn in the Darkness", as he shares how he transformed his life marked by an abusive childhood into a beacon of resilience and self-love. Join us as we delve into his harrowing experiences, the safe haven he found in his great aunt Gladys, and his perseverance to break free from a vicious cycle of generational abuse.

We venture into discussions about overcoming trauma and loss through personal development. Drawing upon personal experiences and work with transitioning combat veterans, we highlight the importance of expanding our emotional vocabulary. We conclude on an optimistic note, emphasizing life after trauma and the hope that sharing our stories can bring about healing. So, don't miss this enriching conversation as we uncover the nuggets of resilience, healing, and transformation.

https://www.amazon.com/Be-Dawn-Darkness-Relentless-Becoming/dp/1544536488

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Picture this: You're finally escaping a toxic relationship, but the echoes of trauma still haunt you. This scenario isn't just a plot of a movie, it's the real-life narrative our brave guest lived through. Tune into our latest episode where we walk this journey alongside her, dissecting the red flags she initially ignored and the immense societal pressure she faced to conform, which kept her entrapped in a destructive relationship.

Ever wondered how one comes out of an abusive relationship and survives the aftermath? Our guest opens up about a life-shattering incident of domestic violence she experienced and the subsequent healing process. She shares the struggle of battling invalidation at work and the therapeutic aid that helped her regain herself. Listen on as we delve into the complexities of emotional trauma, challenging the normativity that trauma is only valid when it fits a stereotypical pattern.

As we continue to unfold the narrative, our guest shares her experiences with emotional abuse and the significance of subtle gestures in a relationship. She then takes us through her inspiring journey of turning her platform into a safe space for others with similar experiences, rewriting her trauma into strength and purpose. We wrap up with a discussion on the notorious Jamie Kloss case, reflecting on our initial reactions and its unforeseen resolution. Join us as we navigate the intricate corridors of true crime, personal trauma, and healing.

Support the show