Trauma to Triumph

Previously an honors student who tested out of five college quarters, my life took a drastic turn after a profound spiritual awakening my first year in pre-Med. Misunderstood and devalued, I was hospitalized, misdiagnosed and wrongly medicated. It was horrible, yet enlightening.

We often overlook emotional and mental health, leading to unmet needs. I just needed someone to listen. I'd experienced something profound that no one had the discernment, discovery or desire to understand beyond their limited and limiting views.

Chemical imbalances contribute with many who have emotional and mental challenges, but deeper issues are often at play. Society tends to rely on pharmaceuticals and DSM V diagnoses, labeling behaviors as 'disorders' without considering their potential 'order.' We aren't curious enough or listen deeply enough, let alone ask questions of substance that matter in our attempts to find understanding.

Decades later, I shared my journey at an IANDS annual conference , appeared on New Thinking Allowed , and am now ranked among the top 100 Thought Leaders in North America by Thinkers360. I didn't succumb to lesser minds that couldn't see beyond their boxes. I've been thrown out, sometimes literally, of places I thought would have a warm embrace for people like me. I think being outside the box allows better reading of the labels and ingredients.

So I did my own thing, encouraged by my wife who believes I'm brilliant and have a lot to say, and now host a podcast that delves into the fears and obstacles hindering inner development and our emotional ties to 'fitting in.' Featuring professionals and thought leaders who've navigated their own mental health challenges, our 'apocalyptic chats' explore diverse perspectives, uncovering overlooked truths about the inner and outer worlds.

We've reached 1 million views recently, after three years and over 150 apocalyptic chats, so perhaps something is of value.

What might be there for you? Are you willing to question your beliefs about reality? Youtube.com/@OneWorldinaNewWorld

As we journey through the tapestry of life, each thread we weave carries the potential to inspire and uplift, not only ourselves but also those around us. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities with courage and optimism, striving always to transcend the ordinary.

Many of our guests experienced a question of sanity during their early explorations of life and professional careers. They mostly remained quiet, for obvious reasons, yet were caring enough to share their reflections to inspire others and ease the stigma on those who choose to explore the inner life.

Remember, every small step we take in personal growth and understanding contributes to a larger ripple effect, impacting the world in ways we may never fully comprehend. Let this be our guiding light: that in seeking the best within ourselves, we inspire others to do the same, together building a future that resonates with harmony and hope.

Zen Benefiel is a visionary, author and coach , adept in the realms of personal, professional, and organizational development. He is an ardent explorer of consciousness, delving into the depths of leadership, science, spirituality, and metaphysics.