Keywords thriving, surviving, trauma, mentorship, healing, documentary, cinematography, social change, grief, community support

Summary In this episode of 'Thriving Not Surviving', host Helen Valentino engages in a deep conversation with Ben Cole, an actor, filmmaker, and mentor. They explore Ben's journey from a challenging childhood, through the struggles of acting, to his eventual reinvention as a cinematographer and documentary filmmaker. The discussion delves into themes of trauma, healing, mentorship, and the importance of community support. Ben shares his insights on grief, self-discovery, and the role of elders in guiding the younger generation. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic change in society to better support those in need.

Takeaways

• Thriving means having tools and support to navigate life’s challenges

• Early trauma can shape identity, but it does not have to define the future

• Reinvention can be a powerful act of self-trust and healing

• Mentorship plays a vital role in growth, recovery and self-discovery

• Grief is an ongoing practice that many people are never taught

• Listening and presence can be profoundly healing for others

• Community support has the power to change lives

• Documentary filmmaking can be a vehicle for healing and social awareness

• Society needs systemic change in how it supports those who have suffered

• Awareness is the foundation of personal transformation

Sound Bites

"I had to reinvent myself."

"Hurt people hurt people."

"The real me was just awareness."

Connect with Ben

Website: bencolecinematographysite.com

A Band of Brothers

Boarding School film: Boarding on Insantity

R-evolution film promo:

1 Giant Leap

Connect with Helen

Website: InspiredHealing.co.uk

IG: helens_inspired_healing

LinkedIn: Helen on LinkedIn

For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

🎵 Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios

🎨 Cover art: Dave Champagne

For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.