What happens when your parents — not you — went to boarding school? How might their experiences shape your childhood, and the adult you become?

In this reflective episode, I explore the hidden ways parental boarding school experiences can ripple through generations. Drawing on personal stories, research, and dozens of podcast interviews, I share how traits like emotional distance, overwork, and repression can often be traced back to the complex trauma of boarding school.

We discuss:

• The symptoms of Boarding School Syndrome in parents
• How these patterns affect family relationships
• Why your parents might say they “loved it” — and what’s really underneath
• The power of asking open, curious questions about their school experience
• How understanding their story can soften your heart and open the door to healing

This episode invites you to look at your own family history with fresh eyes. You may discover that your parents’ struggles were never about you — they were the echoes of an education system built on separation, survival, and silence.

Resources mentioned:

• Boarding on Insanity documentary
• Podcast interviews with Joy Schaverien, Alex Renton, and Nick Duffell
• Dr. Gabor Maté on developmental trauma

🎧 Listen in, reflect, and if you can, start the conversation.

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Piers is an author and a men's transformational coach and therapist who works mainly with trauma, boarding school issues, addictions and relationship problems.

He also runs online men's groups for ex-boarders, retreats and a podcast called An Evolving Man.

He is also the author of How to Survive and Thrive in Challenging Times. To purchase Piers first book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Survive-Thrive-Challenging-Times/dp/B088T5L251/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=piers+cross&qid=1609869608&sr=8-1

For more videos please visit: http://youtube.com/pierscross

For FB: https://www.facebook.com/pierscrosspublic

For Piers' website and a free training How To Find Peace In Everyday Life: https://www.piers-cross.com/community

Many blessings,

Piers Cross

http://piers-cross.com/