In this episode, we sit down with Emily Olsen, creator of The Connection Project. Emily suffered for decades from a thick heaviness of spirit, a darkness so malevolent, the thoughts led her to suicide. Emily goes deep and shares what life was like in the darkness, how she tried to find relief and what helped her finally ascend into the light. Emily has since started The Connection Project, a stage that champions mental well being by shedding a light on the darkness of mental illness through courageous speeches, music and poetry. Once again, we feel deeply honoured to host this conversation and incredibly humbled by Emily's level of open-ness and vulnerability in sharing. This! Is Obstacle Course. Let's Go!
Intro
Well I'll be. It IS possible to melt concrete.
Della Falls! Tallest Waterfall in Canada baby.
Fighting to be positive! This phrase reminded us of Jason's phrase from episode 3, "forcing hope."
In the end, Andrew and Sarah paddled 25Km and hiked 17Km in torrential rains. Hardest outdoor day of their lives but looking back, they're grateful for the experience. This! Is Obstacle Course.
Episode Notes
Emily was a referral from one of our past guests, Linda Hunter! You can hear Linda's INCREDIBLE episode here.
Anyone remember The Littlest Hobo? Beachcombers? Fresh Prince of Bel-Air? I remember binging all of those in the day.
Alcohol and drug use provided Emily with temporary disconnection and relief. It gave her a false sense of healing but only increased the dis ease it promised to heal.
Paxil promises healing from panic, anxiety and mood dis-orders but carries many notable negative side-affects. As with all prescritpions, do your research and consult multiple specialists before proceeding and if you do go on a medication, practice vulnerability if it isn't working.
Conversations around the nature of sexual assault are needed now more than ever. If you or someone you know have been the victim of sexual assault, you need to reach out to your local professional and begin the process of healing.
If you are looking for a strong and nuturing community, look no further than The Connection Project. You can connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
The Connection Project hosts a life changing event every fall! In 6-8, ten minute presentations (think TED talks), courageous people bare their soul by courageously sharing their darkness. This act of sharing creates deep connection by shedding a light on our shared human experience! This event sells out quickly so get your tickets now!
John is honoured to be one of the presenters this year! He will be sharing his story of loss of faith and identity. Also, the podcast WILL be recording LIVE at this amazing event. :)
We LOVE Lord of the Rings. Next time you are struggling with a negative thought, don't resist it or run away from it. Stand face to face and say, You Shall Not Pass. Then get on with your day.
This is the Victoria Therapist who provided Emily with her healing through Eye Movement Desensitization Reprosessing (EMDR)
The Haven on Gabriola works miracles. Their classic Come Alive programs have been transforming people for decades. Emily credits this amazing place as key in her own transformation.