Think Unbroken with Michael Unbroken | Childhood Trauma, CPTSD, and Mental Health Recovery

In this episode, Michael shares his powerful journey from rock bottom to transformation and provides five actionable strategies for anyone feeling stuck, hopeless, or trapped in destructive cycles. Drawing from his own experience of being 350 pounds, smoking two packs a day, and drinking himself to sleep at age 25 after a traumatic childhood filled with abuse, homelessness, and addiction, Michael offers hard-won wisdom for those ready to change their lives.Michael emphasizes that "the work works if you do the work," that change happens one moment and one decision at a time, and that the skills that got you to rock bottom won't get you out, requiring humility and letting go of ego.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken Our Sponsors:* Check out Babbel: babbel.com/UNBROKENSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this deeply honest and vulnerable solo episode, Michael breaks the silence and shares the raw truth behind his recent hiatus from the podcast and Think Unbroken. From personal heartbreak and health scares to questioning the future of coaching and content creation, he opens up about the toll this journey has taken—and the radical accountability he's embracing in its wake.Michael talks about compassion fatigue, emotional exhaustion, and why 2025 has become the year of alignment. He reflects on ending a major relationship, losing vision in one eye, relocating to Asia, and stepping away from things that no longer serve his mission or well-being.Whether you've been with Think Unbroken from the beginning or are just tuning in, this episode offers a powerful reminder: healing, growth, and transformation aren’t linear—and sometimes, the most important work is done in the quiet moments of reevaluation.Expect a shift. Expect more honesty. And expect this show to become something even more personal moving forward.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Why is it so terrifying to be truly seen?In this powerful conversation, Michael sits down with portrait and boudoir photographer Gregory James Thelian, whose mission goes far beyond taking beautiful photos. Together, they explore why so many people—especially women—struggle with self-worth, hide behind armour, and fear the raw vulnerability of being seen without masks, filters, or expectations.Gregory shares how photography became his healing medium—not just for clients, but for himself. Through his unique 3-day process, he helps people reconnect with the version of themselves they’ve buried beneath trauma, self-doubt, and societal noise. Michael reflects on his own journey as a former photographer and the emotional weight of seeing someone recognize their strength, beauty, and power for the first time in an image.This is more than a conversation about photos. It’s about healing. About coming home to yourself. And about discovering what it truly means to be unbroken.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://gregoryjamesphotography.com/Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-james-thelian/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregoryjames.photo/Our Sponsors:* Check out Babbel: babbel.com/UNBROKENSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Michael sits down with trauma therapist and author Kristin Duncombe to explore the long shadows cast by childhood abuse—and the courageous path to healing.Kristin shares her story of surviving chronic sexual abuse at the hands of a U.S. diplomat while living overseas, the institutional cover-up that followed, and the profound sense of unworthiness that shaped her adolescence and adult relationships. Together, she and Michael dive into the realities of complex trauma: the coping mechanisms we develop to survive, the patterns we unconsciously repeat, and the radical, uncomfortable, necessary act of reclaiming our truth.From navigating toxic relationships to breaking cycles of people-pleasing and self-doubt, this conversation is a raw, honest look at what healing really means. You’ll hear about the breaking point that changed everything for Kristin, how she found her voice, and the steps anyone can take to begin their own recovery journey.Whether you're carrying the weight of your past or walking alongside someone who is, this episode is a reminder that healing is possible—and it begins with telling the truth.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://www.kristinduncombe.comKristin on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kristin_louise_duncombe/Kristin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-duncombe-62441553/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Why do we keep returning to the same painful thoughts, even after awareness kicks in?In this eye-opening episode, Michael Unbroken sits down with award-winning psychologist Dr. Betsy Holmberg to explore how trauma shapes our brain, fuels negative self-talk, and keeps us trapped in cycles of shame, anxiety, and coping mechanisms that no longer serve us.Dr. Holmberg brings groundbreaking insight into the default mode network (DMN)—the part of your brain responsible for that relentless inner critic—and explains how trauma strengthens this network while weakening the one responsible for focus, calm, and choice. They talk through the science behind addiction, why healing feels impossible some days, and how to begin flipping the switch from stuck to free.If you've ever felt broken, overwhelmed by your reactions, or lost in the loop of "what's wrong with me?", this episode will not only validate your experience but give you real tools to understand it—and start shifting out of it.Why your brain resists healing (and how to work with it)How trauma hijacks your nervous systemThe real reason we return to harmful habitsWhy sharing your story might be your turning pointHow to quiet the DMN and strengthen your sense of selfYou are not your thoughts. You are not broken. This episode is your starting point for change.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://betsyholmberg.com/Unkind Mind: The Neuroscience of Why Women Are So Hard on Themselves―and How to Quiet Your Inner Critic for Good:  https://betsyholmberg.com/elementor-page-2529/Our Sponsors:* Check out Babbel: babbel.com/UNBROKENSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From the moment we're born, we’re wrapped in a relationship that shapes our soul — the one we have with our mother. For some, it's a source of comfort. For others, a source of pain. But for all of us, it's foundational.Jackie Tantillo is currently the Host and Exec Producer of the "Should Have Listened to my Mother" Podcast. SHLTMM Podcast is a 2024 People's Choice Podcast Award Winner for best podcast in the "Society and Culture" Category. SHLTMM is also a 2024 Nominee in two additional categories including, "Best Female" Hosted Podcast & Best Podcast in the "Kids and Family" category. SHLTMM is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the role they play/played in ones life.Jackie has worked in broadcasting as on-air talent (radio), on camera talent (commercials and industrials), a national and international Voice Over talent, Voice Over Acting Instructor and producer and production coordinator for over four decades.In this episode, I sit down with Jackie Tantillo who has spent years speaking to hundreds of guests about one of the most complex, personal relationships we experience. We talk about identity, memory, trauma, forgiveness, and the stories we carry about our mothers, the ones we’ve lived and the ones we’re still trying to rewrite.Jackie shares her own story of growing up in a vibrant, chaotic, loving Italian-American home. I share pieces of mine, a home shaped by pain, abuse, and ultimately, a journey toward reconciliation. Together, we explore what it means to become who you are because of, or in spite of your mother.This isn’t just an episode about moms. It’s about healing, about breaking cycles, and about finding your voice through the stories we often leave unspoken.If you’ve ever struggled with your past… if you're a parent trying to do better… or if you just want to feel seen in your human messiness — this one's for you.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://www.jackietantillo.com/Jackie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-tantillo/Our Sponsors:* Check out Babbel: babbel.com/UNBROKENSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In a world where disconnection, self-doubt, and comparison run rampant, how do we return to ourselves?In this powerful episode, Michael Unbroken sits down with author and self-love advocate Aneta Waclaw to unpack the real meaning of self-love, and why it's more than just a buzzword.Aneta shares the raw and inspiring story behind her book Blooming with Self Love: 31 Days of Affirmations and Journaling, and how simple practices like daily gratitude and affirmations became her anchor after trauma, toxic relationships, and personal breakdowns. Together, they explore why so many of us put others first, how to stop people-pleasing, and what it actually takes to build the habit of loving yourself.You’ll learn:Why your healing might begin by leaving everything familiarHow affirmations work (even when you don’t believe them at first)The role of action, gratitude, and personal accountability in transformationHow to stop chasing validation and start choosing yourself every dayIf you’ve ever felt lost, unworthy, or like self-love just doesn’t “stick,” this episode is your wake-up call—and your roadmap.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://bio.site/nourisheinsideoutAneta on IG: https://www.instagram.com/aneta.waclawOur Sponsors:* Check out Babbel: babbel.com/UNBROKENSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Since 2007, Todd Goodwin has helped thousands to overcome unwanted emotions, habits, and trauma in a way that’s faster than talk therapy, more effective than willpower, and safer than medication. He is one of the few hypnotists (1 in 500) to earn the title Board Certified Fellow by the National Guild of Hypnotists. He currently sees clients from coast to coast by Zoom.In this episode, Michael sits down with Todd Goodwin from Goodwin Hypnosis to delve into the profound impact of the subconscious mind on our daily lives, especially after experiencing trauma. They discuss the misconceptions about hypnosis, the significant role of subconscious programming, and how it influences our behaviors and emotional responses.Todd uses powerful metaphors and examples to illustrate how unresolved trauma can manifest as various emotional and behavioral issues and explains how memory reconsolidation can help in healing. The conversation offers insights into how hypnosis and neurolinguistic programming (NLP) can be utilized to achieve congruency between the subconscious and conscious minds, ultimately leading to better mental health and fulfillment. Todd provides practical steps and resources for those interested in exploring hypnotherapy as a means to address their inner conflicts and emotional distress.If you’re wondering if he could help you, take a one-minute survey at GoodwinHypnosis.com/survey. Mention Think Unbroken to get a deeply relaxing hypnosis audio and an eye-opening educational video.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://goodwinhypnosis.com/Todd on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddgoodwinhypnotist/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this powerful episode, Michael sits down with longevity and wellness expert Kimberly Verbeke to unpack what it really means to take control of your health—physically, mentally, and emotionally.Kimberly shares her experience working in geriatrics and how watching people die too soon sparked her mission: helping others age better and live stronger. From muscle mass and metabolic health to managing stress, emotional eating, and the true meaning of self-care—this episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s tired of feeling tired and ready to reclaim their vitality.If you've ever felt stuck, burnt out, or hopeless about your health, this conversation will show you the power of starting small, taking back control, and becoming your own best ally.Ready to age on your own terms? This episode will light the fire.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://avita-wellness.comKimberly on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyverbekewellness/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode,Michael invites Alyssa Grenfell, an ex-Mormon influencer, to discuss their journeys of leaving the Mormon church and dealing with religious trauma. Both share their personal experiences, pain, and challenges faced while growing up in a religious environment.Alyssa talks about her work, including her book 'How to Leave the Mormon Church,' and the process of deprogramming herself before publicly sharing her story. The conversation covers topics like identity formation, overcoming shame, and navigating relationships and motherhood outside the religious framework. They both emphasize the importance of living authentically and finding personal freedom separate from religious indoctrination.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken LINKS:Website: https://www.mormontruths.com/Alyssa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssadgrenfell/Our Sponsors:* Check out Babbel: babbel.com/UNBROKENSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/think-unbroken-with-michael-unbroken-childhood-trauma-cptsd-and/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy