Justin B. Long spent years carrying beliefs about himself that began in childhood. Learning to question those beliefs changed the way he understood his adult life.
Justin joins Jay to talk about trauma, alcohol, and the shame that can follow attempts to protect yourself from pain. They discuss the different versions of themselves they learned to present to the world and the work of responding with more awareness when an old reaction takes over.
Drawing on the experiences behind The Righteous Rage of a Ten-Year-Old Boy, Justin reflects on therapy, recovery, and learning to accept his younger self. The conversation also examines expectations placed on men and why being honest about fear or hurt can be difficult even when connection is what someone needs.
What We Explore
* Childhood experiences and negative beliefs about yourself
* Alcohol, coping, and layers of shame
* The personas people develop for protection
* Recognizing an old reaction before acting on it
* Justin's experience with therapy and recovery
* Self-worth beyond approval from other people
* Men's emotional health and the pressure to hide vulnerability
About Justin B. Long
Justin B. Long is an author and advocate for men's emotional health. His book The Righteous Rage of a Ten-Year-Old Boy examines his childhood and his experience working through trauma in therapy.
Justin: https://jboydlong.com
This episode includes discussion of childhood trauma and alcohol addiction.
The Tragedy Academy
Candid conversations exploring the human experience through tragedy and triumph.
Hosted by Jay Hicks.
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