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In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with David, author of Forged by Limitations, for a powerful and inspiring conversation about living with cerebral palsy, overcoming adversity, and finding strength through life’s limitations. David shares his story of the complications he experienced at birth that ultimately led to his cerebral palsy diagnosis, as well as the extensive medical interventions he has undergone throughout his life. He opens up about the physical and emotional challenges of living with cerebral palsy, including his experiences with anxiety and depression. Together, Kevin and David explore what it means to face limitations while refusing to let them define your life. David discusses how his struggles have shaped his perspective, strengthened his resilience, and helped him discover purpose and personal growth through adversity. If you or someone you know is navigating life with a disability, dealing with mental health challenges, or searching for inspiration to overcome difficult circumstances, this episode offers an honest and encouraging perspective on turning limitations into strength. Join us for this meaningful conversation about cerebral palsy, disability, mental health, resilience, overcoming adversity, and finding strength through limitations. Please note: This episode contains discussion of suicide and self harm — please take care while listening. If you are anyone you know are having thoughts of suicide, please know someone is always there. There are 24/7/365 resources at the below link: https://988lifeline.org Check out David’s Work: david-last.com   Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful and inspiring episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with author Christine to explore a remarkable story of resilience, motherhood, family, and overcoming unimaginable tragedy. Christine shares how she found herself on her own at a very young age, navigated the challenges of becoming a young mother, and faced a devastating tragedy that forever changed her family. Through heartbreak, adversity, and profound loss, Christine continued moving forward—growing her family, finding strength, and pursuing her passion for writing. This heartfelt conversation is a story of courage, perseverance, personal growth, and finding beauty in the midst of life’s most difficult moments. Join Kevin and Christine for an honest and inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, the strength of family, motherhood, resilience, and the power of sharing your story. Please note: This episode contains discussion of suicide, sexual abuse, and verbal abuse — please take care while listening. If you are anyone you know are having thoughts of suicide, please know someone is always there. There are 24/7/365 resources at the following link: https://988lifeline.org   Check out Christine’s Work: https://www.christineshuck.com Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this inspiring episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with author and educator Cynthia, author of the short story collection Prose Pizza. Cynthia shares insights from her extensive career in education, her passionate advocacy for public education, and her lifelong journey as a writer of poetry, prose, and fiction. Together, Kevin and Cynthia explore the power of creativity, the importance of education, and the transformative role that storytelling and literature can play in our lives. They discuss the beauty of prose and fiction, the creative process, and why encouraging creativity and education matters now more than ever. Whether you’re passionate about creative writing, poetry, fiction, education, or simply love meaningful conversations with inspiring authors, this episode offers plenty to think about. Tune in to Behind Beautiful Things and join Kevin and Cynthia for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, literature, education, and the beauty found in the written word. Please note: This episode contains discussion of suicide — please take care while listening. Check out Cynthia’s Work: https://booktrib.com/2025/12/08/proze-pizza-cynthia-schumacher/   Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Frank for an honest and inspiring conversation about suicidal ideation, major depressive disorder, mental health, resilience, and finding hope through life’s darkest moments. Frank opens up about his long-term battle with suicidal thoughts, his experience living with major depressive disorder, and the challenges of navigating mental illness. He also shares how humor, bodybuilding, inspirational speaking, and personal growth have played an important role in his journey. As a competitive bodybuilder and inspirational speaker, Frank offers a unique perspective on mental health, strength, vulnerability, and overcoming adversity. His story is a powerful reminder that strength isn't always about what we can see on the outside—it can also mean having the courage to ask for help, keep moving forward, and share our story with others. Join Kevin and Frank for a deeply personal conversation about mental health awareness, depression, suicidal ideation, perseverance, hope, and the power of finding beauty in difficult experiences. Please note: This episode contains discussion of suicide — please take care while listening. If you are anyone you know are having thoughts of suicide, please know someone is always there. There are 24/7/365 resources at the below link: https://988lifeline.org Check out Frank’s Work: https://mentalhealthcomedian.com   Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Colleen, author of Life Beyond the Binge, to talk about addiction, recovery, grief, resilience, and finding hope after unimaginable loss. Colleen shares her extraordinary story as a commercial fisherwoman, her years struggling with binge drinking and alcohol addiction, the impact of drinking on her marriage and life, and the devastating tragedy of losing her husband to suicide. With honesty and vulnerability, Colleen opens up about the realities of binge drinking, addiction, marriage, grief after suicide loss, and the difficult journey toward healing and a life beyond addiction. If you or someone you love has struggled with alcohol, binge drinking, addiction, grief, or the loss of a loved one to suicide, this conversation offers a raw, compassionate, and ultimately hopeful perspective on overcoming adversity and moving forward. Join Kevin and Colleen for an unforgettable conversation about addiction, loss, recovery, resilience, and the possibility of building a beautiful life beyond the pain. Listen now and join us for this important conversation. Please note: This episode contains discussion of suicide — please take care while listening. If you are anyone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please know someone is always there. There are 24/7/365 resources at the following link: https://988lifeline.org Check out Colleen’s Work: https://lifebeyondthebinge.com   Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Dr. Deb Butler, a life coach and former chiropractor who helps women navigate menopause, weight loss, emotional eating, and the physical and emotional challenges of midlife. Deb shares her personal and professional journey from chiropractic care to menopause coaching, offering insight into the root causes of why we eat and the connection between food, emotions, and weight. Together, Kevin and Deb explore why weight loss can be especially challenging during menopause, how hormonal changes can affect our bodies and relationship with food, and practical ways women can better understand and navigate this important stage of life. If you’re struggling with menopause symptoms, weight gain, emotional eating, or changes in your body and health during midlife, this conversation offers an insightful look at the challenges—and possibilities—of this transformative season. Join Kevin and Dr. Deb Butler for an honest and empowering conversation about menopause, weight loss, emotional eating, and creating a healthier relationship with yourself and food. Check out Deb’s Work: https://drdebbutler.com https://drdebbutler.com/podcasts   Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Keith, author of Ruta’s Closet, to discuss the powerful and heartbreaking true story of Ruth, a Lithuanian Jewish woman who endured the horrors of the Holocaust. Keith shares Ruth’s harrowing personal story while exploring the devastating history of the Holocaust in Lithuania, where an estimated 95–97% of Lithuanian Jews were murdered. Together, Kevin and Keith discuss why preserving and learning from history matters—especially now—and what inspired Keith to tell Ruth’s story through Ruta’s Closet. This moving conversation explores the Holocaust, Jewish history, antisemitism, historical memory, resilience, and the responsibility we all have to remember the past and learn from it. Join Kevin and Keith for an important conversation about Ruth’s story, the Holocaust, and why remembering history matters now more than ever. Please note: This episode contains descriptions of violence, genocide, holocaust denial, and anti-semitism — please take care while listening. Pick Up a Copy of Ruta’s Closet: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1906509263?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback   Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with John for a heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in preserving human connection. After experiencing the loss of three of the people closest to him, John shares how profound grief can reshape every aspect of life and why there is no universal timeline for healing. Kevin and John explore the emotional realities of loss, the importance of mental health, and the deeply personal journey of navigating life after losing loved ones. They also discuss Guardian Angels, John's AI platform designed to help people interact with a digital representation of someone they have recently lost, sparking a thoughtful conversation about technology, remembrance, and the future of grief support. Whether you've experienced the loss of a loved one, are interested in mental health, or are curious about how AI is changing the way we remember those we've lost, this episode offers compassion, insight, and hope. Join us for a meaningful discussion about love, loss, healing, and the enduring connections that continue to shape our lives.   Please note: This episode contains descriptions of suicide and suicidal ideation — please take care while listening. Check out John’s work: https://guardianaingels.ai TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@guardian.aingels? FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Guardian-AIngels/61575970961536/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guardian-ai-ngels/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/guardian_aingels/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuardianAIngels Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with author Penelope to discuss her books, Still Here and A Walk with Everyone. Together, they explore her childhood, her career as a newspaper reporter, and the lifelong passion for writing that has shaped both her personal and professional journey. Kevin and Penelope also dive into the powerful family stories behind her work, including her collaboration with her mother on A Walk with Everyone and the profound influence of her father, whose life left a lasting impact on both their family and the broader community. Their conversation touches on storytelling, journalism, family legacy, resilience, and the healing power of writing. Whether you're passionate about memoirs, creative writing, journalism, or stories that celebrate family and community, this heartfelt episode offers inspiration and meaningful insight. Tune in for a conversation about the people and experiences that shape who we become. Check Out Penelope’s Work: Website: penelopealonso.com, Author Penelope Alonso - Official Website Facebook: Author Penelope Alonso TikTok: Author Penelope Alonso Instagram: Author Penelope Alonso Amazon Author: Penelope Alonso Amazon Books Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with author Kalyani to discuss her novel, The Invisible Canvas, and the deeply personal experiences thatinspired it. Together, they explore her childhood growing up as an immigrant, why she chose to tell her story through fiction rather than a traditional self-help book, and the universal mental health journey that shapes all of our lives. This thoughtful conversation dives into identity, resilience, healing, storytelling, and the power of fiction to reveal emotional truths. Whether you're interested in mental health, personal growth, the immigrant experience, or the creative writing process, this episode offers meaningful insights and an inspiring perspective. Tune in to hear Kalyani's story and discover the beautiful conversations that happen behind life's most meaningful moments. Please note: This episode contains descriptions of suicide and suicidal ideation — please take care while listening. Check out Kalyami’s work: •          https://www.kalyaniadusumilli.com/ •          https://www.facebook.com/people/Kalyani-Adusumilli-Author •          https://www.instagram.com/kalyani_adusumilli_author/ Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this milestone 200th episode of Behind Beautiful Things, the tables are turned as guest host Kelly—Kevin's sister (and, yes, a doctor!)—takes over the microphone to interview Kevin. Together, they reflect on Kevin's childhood, his lifelong creativity, the close bond they share as siblings, and how being raised by two strong women helped shape the person he is today. Along the way, Kelly shares stories from her life, making for a heartfelt, odd, and memorable conversation. Reaching 200 episodes wouldn't have been possible without our incredible listeners. Thank you to everyone who has tuned in, shared the podcast, and been part of this journey. A very special thank you goes to our producer, Brent, whose talent, kindness, and generosity have helped make every episode possible. Join us as we celebrate 200 episodes of Behind Beautiful Things with laughter, family stories, gratitude, and a look back at the journey that brought us here. Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Kate for a powerful conversation about surviving religious trauma and the journey toward healing. Kate shares what it was like growing up in a deeply conservative Christian family, navigating the oppressive beliefs that shaped her early life, and coping with the devastating trauma caused by her father's crimes. With remarkable humility, honesty, and humor, Kate reflects on faith, deconstruction, resilience, and recovery while offering thoughtful insight into the lasting effects of religious trauma and the rise of Christian nationalism in America. Her story is one of courage, compassion, and hope for anyone wrestling with faith, family, or the impact of childhood trauma. Join us for an honest and unforgettable conversation about healing, identity, and finding beauty after unimaginable pain. Please note: This episode contains descriptions of sexual assault, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of minors. Please take care while listening. Check Out Kate’s Work: Substack: https://katejohnsonwrites.substack.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katejohnsonwrites TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katejohnsonwrites Threads: https://www.threads.com/@katejohnsonwrites Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/katejohnsonwrites.bsky.social Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Paul, author of Forgiving Dr. Jekyll: From Hyde to Healing—A Memoir About Trauma, Recovery, and Regaining Control. Paul shares his deeply personal story of growing up in a dysfunctional family, navigating a painful relationship with his father, and desperately searching for a way to escape the trauma of his childhood. He also opens up about his battle with addiction, the challenges of recovery, and the transformative journey toward healing, forgiveness, and reclaiming his life. This powerful conversation explores the lasting effects of childhood trauma, family dysfunction, addiction recovery, and the resilience it takes to find hope and healing. Whether you've experienced similar struggles or want to better understand the path to emotional recovery, this episode offers honest insights and encouragement. Join us for this inspiring conversation. Please note: This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence and violence against children in the home. Please take care while listening. Check Out Paul’s Work: https://pauldrugan.com Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with Emily to explore the powerful connection between mental health, childhood trauma, and healing. Emily shares her experience working with children in the mental health field, discusses the different types of trauma and their lasting impact, and offers insight into the journey of trauma recovery. Together, they also dive into the transformative role of creativity and art in the healing process, highlighting how creative expression can foster resilience, hope, and emotional well-being. Whether you're interested in mental health, trauma-informed care, childhood healing, or the therapeutic power of creativity, this conversation offers encouragement, practical insights, and inspiration. Join us for this meaningful discussion. Check Out Emily’s Work: http://www.larkspurtherapy.com/ Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Behind Beautiful Things, Kevin sits down with author Julianna to discuss her powerful memoir, Life With Less of Me. Julianna shares her extraordinary journey of resilience, survival, and healing, offering an intimate look at the challenges that shaped her life. During their conversation, Julianna opens up about her traumatic childhood, the experiences that influenced her personal and professional path, and her battle with a devastating flesh-eating disease. She recounts the physical and emotional toll of her illness, the lengthy recovery process, and the strength it took to rebuild her life after unimaginable adversity. Join us for an inspiring discussion about overcoming trauma, surviving serious illness, personal growth, recovery, resilience, and the power of hope. This episode is a moving story of perseverance that will resonate with listeners interested in memoirs, health journeys, mental health, and stories of triumph over adversity. Please note: This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence and animal abuse. Please take care while listening. Check Out Julianna’s Work: https://www.juliannaburmesch.com Behind Beautiful Things Website: www.sadtimespodcast.com Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/373292146649249 Follow Behind Beautiful Things on Instagram: @behindbeautifulthingspodcast Learn more about Kevin’s Professional Speaking and Acting at www.kevincrispin.com Check out Kevin’s substack: https://allconviction.substack.com Get your very own “Sad Schwag”: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/hysteria51/albums/253388-sad-times-podcast?ref_id=9022 Editorial note: Behind Beautiful Things is committed to sharing various stories from generous guests. The hope is to allow any number of stories to be shared to help people feel less alone and, perhaps, more empathetic. It is important to clarify that the guests’ stories, perspectives, and sentiments do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Behind Beautiful Things in any way. Please note that Behind Beautiful Things is in no way a substitute for medical or professional mental health support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.