Becoming UnDone 128 | Surviving a Nightmare: John Ulsh's Journey from Tragedy to Purpose
About the Guest
John Ulsh is an inspiring public speaker, author, and survivor who has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful mission of resilience and motivation. At 37, John's life dramatically changed following a nearly fatal car accident involving his entire family. Despite undergoing over 45 surgeries and extensive rehabilitation, John emerged with a renewed sense of purpose. Now, he dedicates his life to inspiring others as a motivational speaker and author of his book, The Upside of Down, while balancing his career in real estate and his family life in Pennsylvania.
Episode Summary
In this compelling episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks engages with John Ulsh, whose life was irrevocably changed by a devastating car accident. With unyielding courage and resilience, John recounts the physical and emotional barriers he overcame after the collision that nearly claimed his and his family's lives. John's journey to recovery, marked by over 45 surgeries, serves as a testament to human perseverance. He shares how he turned immense pain into purpose, aiding his transformation from adversity towards helping others facing their own "purpose storms."
Throughout the episode, John explores the deeply personal psychological journey he undertook en route to recovery, including suffering from survivor's guilt and battling narcotic dependency. He introduces key concepts such as finding meaning through serving others, embracing the process over the finish line, and being intentional in the face of life's upheavals. Both Toby and John reflect on the delicate balance between humility and the imperative to share one's story to uplift and inspire others with its authenticity. This conversation not only inspires, but also equips listeners with tangible strategies for overcoming their own life obstacles.
Key Takeaways
- The importance of community and support systems in navigating severe trauma and recovery.
- The role of intentional decision-making in shifting from survival to recovery and thriving.
- Finding new purpose and contributing to others' healing as a means to heal oneself.
- Overcoming psychological barriers like survivor's guilt and the complexity of mental health issues post-trauma.
- The power of physical fitness and setting intentions in reclaiming control over one's life and body.
Notable Quotes
- "I survived, only to have to undergo years of intensive rehab and over 45 surgeries and counting."
- "Somewhere in that nursing home, I kind of realized I wasn't going to die. Now somewhere in the nursing home, I started wishing I would have died."
- "I miss my old daddy, the one who would come out and train with me."
- "In the end, it's this constant, like I was battling it today…to how much to let things pull you and how much to push it."
Resources:
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Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.