ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Luke Worsfold speaks with Brad Wetlzer, a travel writer and memoir coach, about his transformative journey through addiction, trauma, and misdiagnosis. Brad shares his deeply personal story, including growing up in a household affected by addiction, his misdiagnosis with bipolar disorder, and the heavy cocktail of psychiatric medications that left him a "walking zombie."
Discover how Brad reclaimed his life through yoga, therapy, and community, and learn how he channels his experience to help others write their own stories. This conversation explores resilience, the dangers of unchecked authority in psychiatry, and the importance of questioning diagnoses and treatment plans.
What We Cover in This Episode:
- Brad’s childhood in a family struggling with alcoholism and denial.
- The impact of trauma and misdiagnosis at a young age.
- Brad’s journey through psychiatric medications and the loss of identity.
- A pivotal wake-up call after the tragic loss of a friend.
- The healing power of yoga, meditation, and finding community.
- Brad’s mystical encounter with a 100-year-old yogi in India.
- How writing and storytelling played a key role in Brad’s recovery.
- Brad’s advice for others navigating misdiagnosis and addiction recovery.
Key Takeaways:
- Misdiagnosis can lead to years of unnecessary suffering; always seek a second opinion.
- Healing requires a holistic approach, including body movement, mindfulness, and supportive community.
- Writing and reclaiming your story can be a powerful tool for recovery and self-discovery.
About Brad Wetlzer:
Brad Wetlzer is a renowned travel writer, author, and memoir coach. His memoir, Into the Soul of the World: My Journey to Healing, chronicles his life from success to addiction and back to recovery. He now helps others share their personal journeys through writing. Learn more about Brad at www.bradwetlzer.com. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter @bradwetlzer.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
- Brad Wetlzer’s website: www.bradwetlzer.com
- Book: Into the Soul of the World by Brad Wetlzer
- Recommended reads: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, Leaving Home by David P. Celani, Yoga and the Quest for the True Self by Stephen Cope, and The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck.
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