What do you do when life cracks you open- literally?

In this powerful and emotional episode, Brian R. King talks with brain injury survivor and mental health advocate Nicholas Ruchlewicz. After a traumatic motorcycle crash left him with a broken pelvis, crushed eye socket, and a traumatic brain injury, Nick could’ve chosen bitterness. Instead, he chose advocacy, empathy, and growth.

Together, they explore Nick’s transformation, from bullied “nerdy kid” to resilient survivor who now speaks with senators and supports fellow trauma survivors. This is an unfiltered look at trauma, healing, and what it really means to walk beside others in their pain.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

• The invisible scars of trauma and how they shaped Nick’s early life

• His powerful use of D&D and music as healing tools

• The motorcycle accident that changed everything

• His path through rehabilitation, depression, and rediscovering self-worth

• Why he now says, “Why not me?” and fights to make others feel seen

• Trauma doesn’t define you—but it can refine you.

• Support systems don’t need to be big; they just need to be there.

• Gaming and music aren’t just hobbies—they can be lifelines.

• Empathy walks with you; it doesn’t talk down to you.

• Healing starts with the next right thing.

Want to hear more from Nick and support his advocacy? Visit his LinkedIn page and follow his work with the Trauma Survivors Network.

👉 If this episode moved you, share it with someone who feels invisible. Remind them they matter. Then subscribe, rate, and leave a review- because your voice helps more people find healing.