#12 – Corey McCarthy: Overcoming trauma, finding meaning, changing the self-narrative, & gratitude
Summary

In this podcast episode, Peter Atia interviews Corey McCarthy, a former inmate who now volunteers with Défi Ventures, a program that helps prisoners learn life skills. The conversation covers topics such as how experiences can define a person, the importance of forgiveness, and how good people can make bad decisions. Atia also discusses his interest in mental health and how it ties into his focus on longevity. The two discuss their initial skepticism about Défi Ventures, but ultimately found it to be a worthwhile program.

The context emphasizes the impact of childhood trauma on addiction and emotional stability. The speaker talks about how trauma can lead to shame and dysregulated emotions such as anger and emotional volatility. They also mention the five roots of trauma which are abuse, abandonment, neglect, enmeshment, and witnessing a tragic event. The speaker shares their own experiences with trauma and addiction, including selling drugs and getting into fights. Overall, the context emphasizes the importance of addressing childhood trauma in order to promote emotional stability and prevent addiction.

The speaker also discusses their experience in jail and the prevalence of drug use and gangs within the prison system. They also talk about their struggles with being a good father to their daughter while incarcerated and the impact of being in solitary confinement. The speaker expresses their dislike for gangs and their manipulation of vulnerable individuals. They also mention the difficulties of staying in touch with loved ones while in jail and the challenges of drug addiction within the prison environment.

The conversation also touches on the fear and anxiety that comes with being released from prison. The speaker talks about his experience of being released early from prison and the anxiety he felt during the process. He also shares a story about a famous case of a rapist in his hometown and how it affected him. The speaker mentions the importance of self-talk and how it can be a hindrance to progress. He also talks about the importance of preparation and staying busy to ease fears.

Overall, the podcast episode offers a glimpse into the experiences of a former inmate and the impact of childhood trauma on addiction and emotional stability. The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing trauma and promoting emotional stability in order to prevent addiction and promote personal growth. The speaker also discusses the challenges of being in jail and the importance of support and empathy in addiction recovery.