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Five years and 125 episodes later, what began as a trembling voice in a closet recording booth has blossomed into a sacred journey of healing, faith, and community. Wednesdays with Watson was born not from expertise but from raw necessity—a desperate search for understanding my own PTSD during the early, uncertain days of the 2020 pandemic.

Lying in a hammock when the world suddenly stopped, I confronted a truth that had followed me since childhood: trauma wasn't just a chapter in my story; it was the paper my story was written on. Abuse, abandonment, and neglect had whispered lies that I was too broken to be loved, too damaged to be useful. But something miraculous happened when I dared to speak these truths aloud—I began to heal, and others began to listen.

This anniversary episode unpacks how sharing my journey through childhood trauma and domestic violence created space for others to feel less alone. The podcast transformed from a personal healing project into a ministry, ultimately setting me on a path toward completing a doctorate in trauma and community care. What started as a way to make sense of my own symptoms became a lifeline for a community of trauma survivors seeking hope in their darkest moments.

The most profound lesson from these five years is simple yet revolutionary: faith doesn't erase pain—it gives it purpose. Every time you tune in, share an episode, or send a message about how this podcast has touched your life, you affirm that God doesn't waste pain. To every survivor who has ever felt defined by their trauma, to every person questioning if healing is possible, to every listener new and old: You are seen. You are known. You are heard. You are loved. You are valued. And I'm honored to continue walking this journey together.

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Trauma leaves invisible marks that often surface in adulthood as anxiety, relationship struggles, and even physical symptoms. For Child Abuse Awareness Month this April, we're diving deep into the complex ways childhood trauma shapes our adult lives by answering the ten most common questions listeners have submitted about their trauma responses.

What exactly constitutes childhood trauma? Many people wonder if their experiences "count" when they didn't endure extreme abuse. The truth is that trauma isn't just about major events—it's anything that pushed you beyond your capacity to cope. Those persistent feelings of anxiety, disconnection, trust issues, or boundary struggles might be your nervous system's way of protecting you from past wounds.

Boundary setting emerges as one of the most challenging areas for trauma survivors who learned early that keeping peace was safer than speaking up. Setting boundaries isn't selfish—it's essential. The healing journey requires practicing small boundaries and remembering that "no" is a complete sentence. Similarly, emotional numbness and pushing people away despite craving connection reflect survival mechanisms rather than character flaws.

Perhaps most surprising to many is how trauma manifests physically. When your nervous system remains stuck in fight-or-flight mode, it can lead to chronic pain, autoimmune issues, and various physical ailments. Healing requires regulating your nervous system through mindfulness, movement, and somatic practices that help release trapped trauma from your body.

For those struggling with self-worth or wondering if complete healing is possible, there's hope. While some scars may remain, they needn't define your identity or limit your capacity for joy, connection, and purpose. Your trauma is not your identity—your strength and resilience are. As we explore these questions together, remember that every step toward understanding is a step toward healing.

Have you noticed trauma patterns in your own life? Share your experiences or ask questions by sending a text message through our podcast app. You are seen, you are known, you are loved, you are heard, and you are valued.

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Five years after launching this podcast as a "pandemic pivot" from my hammock, I'm marking this milestone by returning to the fundamentals of trauma and PTSD. This episode kicks off a comprehensive series that will guide you through understanding trauma's profound impact on mind, body, and behavior as we build toward PTSD Awareness Month in June.

Trauma isn't simply about what happens to us—it's about what happens inside us when events overwhelm our natural capacity or "window of tolerance." I explain why comparing trauma experiences misses the point entirely and how traumatic responses actually represent your body functioning exactly as designed when pushed beyond its limits. You'll discover why physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances often accompany emotional and behavioral changes, and why "the body keeps the score" is more than just a catchphrase.

The episode demystifies Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, exploring why many experts (myself included) now prefer dropping the "disorder" label. I share insights from my journey from trauma survivor to trauma specialist, drawing connections between unhealed trauma and autoimmune conditions that developed through decades of avoidance.

I answer poignant listener questions about preventing intergenerational trauma transmission and navigating complex trauma healing when traditional therapies feel overwhelming. The episode culminates with an exciting announcement about Victory Trauma Consulting, my new venture offering personalized trauma support services with sliding-scale pricing.

Whether you're struggling with your own trauma history, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking education, this episode provides the foundational understanding necessary for healing. The only way through trauma is through it—and this series aims to light that path forward with clarity, compassion, and hope.

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Part 1 of this series: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1027246/episodes/16606769-what-is-wednesdays-with-watson-part-2.mp3?download=true

Part 2:https://www.buzzsprout.com/1027246/episodes/16606769-what-is-wednesdays-with-watson-part-2.mp3?download=true

Discover a deeply personal and transformative journey in this episode as I share my battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its impact on my life and faith. I recount the harrowing experience of being hospitalized, the emotional turbulence of facing my abuser in court, and the significance of medication as a lifeline in my fight against trauma.

Listeners will find relatable insights as I navigate the complexities of self-worth, resilience, and the essential role of a supportive community during times of profound crisis. The podcast emphasizes that healing is not merely a destination, but a journey laden with challenges and victories. Through engaging storytelling, I aim to encourage others to embrace their narratives, to realize that they are seen, known, and loved, no matter where they are in their journey.

Join me for an exploration of hope and healing. If you're seeking understanding or support for yourself or a loved one, I invite you to subscribe, share, and connect with our community. The most beautiful truths often emerge from the darkest places—let’s illuminate them together.

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February 26, 2025

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What happens when the very foundations of your safety are shaken, and healing seems out of reach? Join me as I share a deeply personal journey, marking the near fifth anniversary of the Wednesdays with Watson podcast. Born from the solitude of the pandemic and my struggle with PTSD, this episode takes you through the significant moments that shaped my path toward healing. From a life-altering stay in a psychiatric hospital to moving in with a friend who transformed my approach to counseling, we explore the profound role of faith, community, and a trauma-informed support system in navigating life's darkest periods.

In a candid discussion, I recount the decision to entrust my journey to Dr. Pettit, a Christian counselor who became a beacon of hope and safety. Despite my initial skepticism about having a male counselor, his approach turned a meeting room into a sanctuary for healing. Through recounting sessions filled with breakthroughs and challenges, this episode underscores how a worldview larger than oneself can be pivotal in recovery. You'll hear about heartwarming and sometimes humorous anecdotes, like my notorious sense of direction, even on the simplest drives from Clearwater to St. Pete.

As we recount the trials of facing threatening emails during hospital stays and the solace found in unexpected friendships, this episode is a testament to the transformative power of support and connection. The narrative reinforces a powerful message: no matter how bleak circumstances may appear, hope is unwavering, and every story is still being written. As the podcast approaches its fifth year, we celebrate not just survival, but the discovery of purpose and worth in the face of adversity.

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This episode centers on Amy Watson's journey through post-traumatic stress disorder, emphasizing the universal nature of trauma and the hope for healing through community and faith. As Amy recounts her personal experiences and insights, she encourages listeners to understand the challenges of PTSD while highlighting the significance of support systems and trustworthy connections in the recovery process.

• Exploring personal stories of trauma and healing
• Discussing the impact of PTSD on emotional and mental well-being
• Unpacking the importance of church, community, and counseling
• Sharing practical examples of trauma responses
• Drawing connections between biblical stories and personal experiences
• Emphasizing the significance of connection and support during difficult times

We always want to hear from you, so please reach out to us on social media or send us an email with your thoughts and experiences related to this topic.

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Lydia Garner returns to share her insights on coping with grief and trauma, focusing on her experiences as a Millennial dealing with the loss of her son. Through her journey, she emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, gratitude, and open conversations about mental health across generations.

• Lydia shares the impact of 9/11 on her as a teenager
• Understanding how her upbringing shaped her resilience
• The cultural shift surrounding mental health in the Millennial generation
• Experiences of postpartum depression and the need for candid dialogue
• Acknowledging grief while finding hope and gratitude amidst loss
• The significance of connection and support in healing

Remember to reach out if you're struggling; you are not alone. Dial 988 in the States or contact a crisis hotline in your country.
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Ever find yourself feeling low after the holiday lights dim and the festive spirit fades? Well, you're not alone. In our latest Wednesdays with Watson episode, we uncover the post-holiday letdown many experience and offer practical insights into managing those overwhelming emotions. We explore the triggers that might arise from family gatherings and the weight of grief, especially when the winter skies feel endlessly gray. Get ready to learn how setting mental health goals and focusing on sleep can reinvigorate your spirit as you transition back to your daily routine.

The emotional rollercoaster during and after the holiday season is real, and we're here to help you navigate it. We dive into valuable self-care practices like journaling, setting boundaries, and reaching out for therapy. By acknowledging and honoring your emotions without judgment, you can build resilience and find peace in shared experiences. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about prioritizing rest, nutrition, and support, all vital for maintaining emotional health as you step into a new year.

2025 is here, and it's time to set your mental health compass. This episode is packed with actionable tips on mindfulness, physical activity, and nurturing relationships with supportive individuals. We explore the unwavering role of faith in navigating life's challenges and express our gratitude for the enduring spirit of our listeners. As we embark on this new year, we’re excited for future topics, including a series on generational trauma. Join us on this journey of growth, resilience, and steadfast faith.

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