Deciphering Growth

How does trauma shape addiction—and how can recovery programs support true healing? In this week’s episode of Deciphering Growth , we break down what it really means for recovery spaces to be trauma-informed. We talk about the language that helps (and harms), common missteps in traditional models, and the importance of nervous system regulation in healing. We’re also exploring alternative programs...

In this powerful episode of Deciphering Growth , Tiffany Graves and Eric Stone sit down with filmmakers Blue and Jason Gerber , directors of the documentary Dawn Dusk . The film follows designer Chelli Look as she navigates grief, forgiveness, and resilience after losing her sister to domestic violence. Rather than focusing on the violence itself, Dawn Dusk explores the healing journey that follow...

Addiction isn’t a moral failure—it’s often a survival response to unresolved trauma. In this week’s episode of Deciphering Growth, we unpack the neuroscience of addiction, how trauma rewires the brain, and why healing requires more than willpower. Join us as we explore how self-medication—whether through substances, behaviors, or habits—can become a coping mechanism for pain, and what true recover...

In this episode, Tiffany and Eric dive into the real-world impact of recent mental health policy changes—including Medicaid work requirements, the defunding of school-based mental health services, the opioid settlement fund, and the rollback of mental health parity enforcement. We discuss the consequences of these shifts on vulnerable populations, rural healthcare clinics, overdose prevention effo...

In this powerful episode of Deciphering Growth , Tiffany Graves and Eric Stone dive deep into what real resilience looks like for those who experienced childhood trauma. We explore the neurobiology of adversity , how toxic stress rewires the brain, the impact of ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences), and the emotional cost of "turning out fine." You’ll learn: Why resilience is not toughne...

This week on Deciphering Growth , we explore the deep and lasting wounds caused by conversion therapy and faith-based rejection. Tiffany Graves and Eric Stone unpack how therapy meant to help can sometimes do profound harm — especially when it targets a person’s identity. We talk about identity rupture, internalized shame, moral injury, and how to support the LGBTQ+ community with compassion and a...

🎧 Pride, Healing, and Chosen Family | Deciphering Growth In this special Pride Month episode, Tiffany Graves and Eric Stone dive into the rich history of Pride, the trauma still faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and the healing power of chosen family. They reflect on the somatic toll of identity-based trauma, the nuances of navigating Pride events with neurodivergence, and how solidarity—not just...

This week, we’re joined by reporter and weekend anchor Lindsay Stone to talk about the mental health toll of journalism. Lindsay walks us through what it's like to report on crime scenes, interview grieving families, and return to “normal life” without ever really processing what she's witnessed. We explore: Vicarious trauma in high-intensity careers The silence around mental health in jou...

What happens when childhood pain doesn’t stay in childhood? In this episode of Deciphering Growth , Tiffany Graves and Eric Stone explore the long-term effects of childhood trauma and what it really means to reconnect with the inner child. We dive deep into: How childhood wounds show up in adult behavior and relationships Why logic alone can’t heal the nervous system EMDR vs. IFS: What works, what...

What happens when family patterns blur into emotional wounds that last a lifetime? In this episode of Deciphering Growth , we unpack the hidden impacts of toxic parenting — exploring enmeshment, narcissistic dynamics, and parentification. Join us as we break down: How toxic family patterns form Why emotional wounds from childhood can linger for decades The struggles with guilt, boundaries, and sel...

Childhood emotional neglect often flies under the radar—but its effects can echo well into adulthood, impacting relationships, identity, and mental health. In this episode, we explore: 🔹 The neuroscience behind emotional neglect 🔹 How it reshapes our brains and attachment styles 🔹 Subtle signs that show up in adulthood—like imposter syndrome, people-pleasing, and perfectionism 🔹 How we can beg...

🎙️ New Episode Alert: "Deciphering Hate – Navigating Trauma, Free Speech, and Controversy" In this thought-provoking episode of Deciphering Growth , we dive deep into the complexities of hate, trauma, and the boundaries of free speech. From recent local protests to the global implications of hate speech, Tiffany and Eric explore the emotional and psychological impacts of hate on individu...

What happens when faith and trauma intersect across generations? In this episode of Deciphering Growth, we dive into religious and spiritual trauma, exploring how belief systems shape family dynamics, identity, and personal healing. We break down: 🔹 The difference between religious trauma vs. spiritual trauma 🔹 How shame, guilt, and fear are used to control behavior 🔹 The impact of intergenerat...

🚨 New Episode Alert! 🚨 🎙️ "Deciphering Growth"  is back, and this time, we're tackling a big one— The Body Keeps the Score  by Bessel van der Kolk. This book has been a go-to on trauma for years, but does it hold up? 🤔 Tiffany Graves & Eric Stone dive into the good, the bad, and the very  questionable parts of this widely praised book. 🔥 We discuss: ✅ What the book gets righ...

Join us on Deciphering Growth as we dive into childhood trauma, the holidays, and seasonal triggers 🌿🧠 🎙️ Tiffany Graves & Eric Stone explore: 🔹 How Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shape our stress responses 🔹 The unseen impact of holiday traditions & seasonal changes 🔹 The brain science behind trauma & emotional regulation 🔹 Practical ways to support yourself & others t...

🚨 Winter Got You Feeling Off? Let’s Talk About It! ❄️💭 The cold, dark months aren’t just about bundling up—they can seriously mess with your mental health. If you’re feeling drained, down, or disconnected, you’re not alone. 🌫️💙 🎙️ In this episode of Deciphering Growth , we’re diving deep into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), PTSD, and how winter can amplify trauma symptoms . Plus, we’ll break...

In this powerful follow-up to our last episode, we dive deeper into the complexities of trauma in healthcare—especially for women. From validating difficult experiences to exploring the systems that perpetuate dismissive care, this episode is packed with reflections, insights, and actionable steps for both clinicians and individuals. 💡 What you'll hear: ✨ Personal and professional takeaways...

In this eye-opening episode of Deciphering Growth , we delve deep into the systemic challenges women face in healthcare with special guest, therapist Hannah Smith. From the historical roots of medical bias to the emotional toll of infertility, we explore how women’s pain is often overlooked and what can be done to change the narrative. Hannah shares her expertise in perinatal mental health, the im...

The holiday season can bring unique challenges for those in recovery from substance use, especially when trauma is part of the journey. In this episode, we dive into how substance use and trauma intersect during this time of year and offer practical tips for managing these struggles. Whether you’re in recovery or supporting someone on this journey, this conversation is for you. Tune in as we discu...

The holiday season can be tough on mental health, especially when old trauma triggers resurface. 🎄🧠 This week, we’re talking about why the holidays can be challenging and sharing ways to manage stress, set boundaries, and find peace during this time. Tune in now for tips on navigating the season with your well-being in mind! 🎧 #MentalHealthMatters #HolidayStress #TraumaHealing #NewEpisode #Podc...

The day after the election can feel overwhelming—whether you’re feeling relief, disappointment, or just exhaustion. In our latest episode, we explore the range of emotions people experience post-election and how to process these feelings in a healthy way. 🧠💬 We discuss strategies to manage stress, navigate difficult conversations, and build emotional resilience. Whether you're celebrating, reeli...

💬🧠 This week, we dive into how online platforms are opening up conversations around men’s struggles, breaking down stigma, and creating support networks. It’s time to rethink masculinity and mental health. 💪✨ Tune in now and join the movement for open, honest dialogue! 🎧👇 #MensMentalHealth #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthAwareness #PodcastEpisode #NewEpisode #SocialMediaImpact

🎙️ * New Episode Alert! * 🎙️ How are mental health, eating disorders, and trauma connected? This week, we explore the if there are ties between trauma and disordered eating. 🧠💔🍽️ Tune in to understand the complexities, hear powerful stories, and learn ways to support yourself or others on the journey to recovery. 🎧👇 #MentalHealthMatters #EatingDisorders #TraumaHealing #PodcastEpisode #BreakThe...

Ever felt drained after seeing distressing news or posts online? You might be experiencing vicarious trauma . This week, we’re exploring how constant exposure to traumatic content affects our mental health and what we can do to protect ourselves. 🧠💥 Tune in now to learn more and take control of your emotional well-being! 🎧👇

How does social media shape our empathy? 🤔🌐 This week, we’re breaking down the effects of social media on our mental health and how it impacts the way we connect with others. Are we losing empathy in the digital age, or can we still cultivate it online? Let’s dive in!