Unpacking Trauma: How the Brain Responds and How We Can Heal

I’m Hattie Hawks, and in this very special episode, I’m opening up about my personal journey with complex PTSD—how I discovered it, how it’s shown up in my life, and how it continues to shape my healing process.

I’m joined by Dr. Ken Yeager, the founder of the STAR (Stress, Trauma And Resilience) program at The Ohio State University and an expert in trauma research and recovery.

In this conversation, Dr. Yeager and I talk about what trauma really is, how it lives in our minds and bodies, and the sometimes subtle, sometimes overwhelming ways it impacts our emotions, executive function, and relationships.

We talk candidly about my own experiences—including the surprises and setbacks of recovery—and how trauma can show up even when we might not realize it. Dr. Yeager also gives us an accessible look at the neuroscience behind trauma, why we might blame ourselves, and the ways our culture and recent events (like the COVID-19 pandemic) have increased collective feelings of isolation and stress.

I hope this episode brings you validation if you’re on your own healing journey, or helps you better understand and support those around you. With honesty, some well-earned humility, and the wisdom of a true expert, we explore how emotional intelligence and self-compassion are absolutely crucial as we work toward joy and wholeness.

Thank you for being here with me—let’s take these next steps together.

Here are 3 key takeaways from our discussion:

• Trauma often hides behind everyday struggles. If you—or your colleagues—are feeling scattered, forgetful, or emotionally exhausted, underlying trauma might be part of the story. Understanding this is step one to creating more supportive workplaces.
• Healing is not linear—and self-compassion is essential. Progress is messy. You may move forward, backwards, or sideways, and that’s okay. Extending kindness to yourself (and others) is a critical part of recovery.
• Connection is the antidote to loneliness and shame. Whether you’re recovering from trauma yourself or leading others, fostering genuine human connection and open dialogue fosters healing and growth for everyone.

Key Moments

00:00 Trauma Insights with Dr. Yeager

09:44 "Parental Impact on Childhood Trauma"

13:19 Impact of Trauma on Perspectives

19:33 Healing Through Life Experiences

25:58 Understanding Personal History

30:20 Loneliness Epidemic: Fear of Closeness

33:37 Thriving Through Emotional Understanding

42:50 Struggling with Emotional Connection

43:54 Loneliness and Connection Crisis

53:22 "Self-Understanding Through Compassion"

55:16 Processing Emotions and Anger

01:01:11 Rediscovering Joy Amidst Challenges

01:11:06 "Understanding Work's Impact on Well-being"

01:12:44 "OSU STAR & Helpful Resources"

In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your emotions, can do for you in your daily and work life. For more information, contact Eric or Jeff at [e-mail], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

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