Show Notes: Get Past Your Past with Jason Vanruler
In this engaging episode of the podcast, host Michele Vrabel sits down with therapist and author Jason VanRuler to explore his personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and how it shaped his career. Jason shares his story of growing up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, experiencing his parents' divorce at age eight, and navigating subsequent abuse and upheaval. He candidly discusses his turning point in young adulthood, where he confronted his own destructive patterns, met his supportive wife, and pursued his long-held dream of becoming a therapist— a path he journaled about as a child. Drawing from his book "Get Past Your Past," Jason emphasizes the interconnectedness of emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical healing, highlighting how unresolved wounds manifest in daily life and relationships. Michele parallels her own experiences, including her books on healing, and they delve into the importance of authenticity, community, and accountability in overcoming past hurts.
The conversation touches on practical concepts like "coughing"—the act of vulnerably voicing hidden truths to begin healing—and the dangers of isolation, such as adopting a "chameleon syndrome" to fit others' expectations. They discuss how unaddressed trauma leads to protective behaviors, overreactions, and relational challenges, while stressing the value of safe communities and self-acceptance. Jason shares his nugget of wisdom: embracing who you truly are leads to contentment and easier connections. With humor and relatability, they reflect on personal growth, the role of faith, and influences like Bob Goff, ending on a note of gratitude for authentic relationships that foster healing and potential.
### Chapters
- **00:00 - 01:22**: Introduction and Michele's overview of the podcast's focus on holistic healing.
- **01:29 - 05:33**: Jason's personal journey: Childhood, divorce, trauma, and early adulthood struggles.
- **05:33 - 07:53**: Becoming a therapist, the value of personal experience in counseling, and relating to others' pain.
- **07:53 - 10:25**: Authenticity, transparency, and light-hearted banter on self-care and bartering.
- **10:25 - 14:47**: Explaining "coughing"—voicing truths for healing—and parallels to writing and prayer.
- **14:47 - 18:12**: Physical impacts of unresolved trauma, protective behaviors, and overreactions to wounds.
- **18:12 - 21:24**: Boundaries, trust in relationships, and living unprotected to realize potential.
- **21:24 - 24:09**: Isolation post-divorce/COVID, chameleon syndrome, and building authentic communities.
- **24:09 - 27:10**: The cost of growth, inviting others along, and the healing power of uniqueness.
- **27:10 - 32:18**: Authenticity in relationships, congruence, and shaking out false connections.
- **32:18 - 34:46**: Social media pressures, showing Jesus through authenticity, and personal reflections.
- **34:46 - 36:53**: Jason's nugget: Know and love who you are for true contentment.
- **36:53 - 39:51**: Wrapping up, appreciation for Bob Goff, and farewell.
Keywords
healing journey, childhood trauma, emotional wounds, authenticity, relationships, therapy, coughing truth, isolation, chameleon syndrome, self-acceptance, faith, Bob Goff, Get Past Your Past, holistic healing, personal growth, community, accountability, divorce, abuse, congruence, potential.
34 min