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What if understanding your anxiety was the first step toward changing your relationship with it?

Our brains carry experiences that shape how we respond to stress, fear, relationships, and uncertainty. But our past doesn't have to be the only influence on our future.

In this episode of the 3-21 No Kiddin’ Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast, host Bobbie Malatesta welcomes Nicole Thompson, Ed.S., founder of GOAT Educators, author, speaker, and former school psychologist.

Nicole's work centers on trauma-informed approaches, emotional well-being, and helping people understand the impact of adverse experiences.

This conversation explores an important question: What does it really mean to rewire the anxious brain?

Topics at the Heart of This Conversation

• Understanding anxiety and the effects of trauma
• Recognizing how earlier experiences can influence emotional responses
• The importance of compassion instead of judgment
• Trauma-informed approaches to supporting others
• Emotional wellness, connection, and the possibility of growth
• Why understanding someone's behavior requires looking beyond the surface

Meet Nicole Thompson

Nicole Thompson, Ed.S., is the founder of GOAT Educators and the author of Reach to Teach: 7 Simple Trauma-Informed Steps to Help Urban Students Engage, Improve Grades and Decrease Disruptive Behaviors Overnight.

Her professional work focuses on helping educators, families, and communities better understand trauma and create supportive environments where people can thrive.

Connect with Nicole

Website: https://www.nicolethompsonspeaks.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-thompson-ed-s-b27b50144

About 3-21 No Kiddin’

At 3-21 No Kiddin’, we believe we are all recovering from something.

Whether it's gambling addiction, substance use, anxiety, trauma, grief, or the challenges of everyday life, we believe people deserve opportunities for connection, encouragement, growth, and joy.

Our podcast shares conversations that challenge stigma, open minds, and remind listeners that no one should have to navigate life's challenges alone.

💜 If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to the podcast and share it with someone who might benefit from hearing it.

Explore 3-21 No Kiddin’, our non-alcoholic destination and Recovery Playground in Naugatuck, Connecticut:

https://321nokiddin.com

Positivity Is No Gamble.

Content note: This episode addresses anxiety and trauma. The conversation is educational and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care.

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

Episode Summary: From Darkness to Light – A Journey of Resilience with Lena Sibula

In this deeply moving episode of "Three, Two, One. No Kidden," host Bobbi the Awesome sits down with Lena Sibula, a survivor of human trafficking and extreme adversity, whose life story is a testament to the power of hope, faith, and the capacity to thrive after trauma.

Born in Ukraine during a period of intense societal transition and chaos, Lena’s early life was marked by poverty, family instability, and systemic abuse. Lena opens up about the harrowing reality of her teenage years, including surviving sexual violence, the loss of her child, and the descent into heroin addiction—a cycle she escaped only to be lured into the international sex trade.

After enduring two years of trafficking across Egypt and Israel, and facing further betrayal upon returning home, Lena eventually found her way to Canada. There, she discovered the concept of human rights for the first time, began her journey of healing, and built a new life as a hairstylist and salon owner. Today, Lena is a published author, podcaster, and life coach-in-training, dedicated to helping other survivors break the silence of shame and guilt.

Key Highlights

• The Reality of Systemic Collapse: Lena shares her unique perspective on growing up in Ukraine during the fall of the USSR, reflecting on the stark transition from structure and community order to widespread chaos.
• Overcoming Trauma: An honest discussion about the "pain points" of addiction—guilt, shame, and condemnation—and how Lena transformed these into a foundation for empathy and advocacy.
• Surviving Human Trafficking: Lena recounts her abduction, the brutal reality of being enslaved, and the miraculous sequence of events that led to her eventual freedom and recovery.
• The Power of One: Lena emphasizes that survivors do not need an "army" to start their journey; often, it takes just one person or one act of courage to save a life.
• Message of Hope: Encouragement for anyone currently in a dark place, urging them to "do it scared," seek help, and realize that healing is possible regardless of their past.

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Lena Sibula’s Website: www.linacebula.ca – Visit for resources on human trafficking prevention, her podcast, and her book, Miraculous.
• Addicts to Athletes: A resource for those in recovery.
• Nurses Against Human Trafficking: Advocacy and support group.
• Zonta International: A global organization working to build a better world for women and girls.
• Call to Action: If you are a survivor of human trafficking or domestic abuse, remember that you are not alone. Please reach out to anonymous hotlines or local organizations—the first step is the hardest, but it is the most vital.

Notable Quote

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure... We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us." — Marianne Williamson (Shared by Lena Sibula)

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Understanding Kratom: Myths, Facts, and Personal Journeys

Host: Bobbie Malatesta

Guest: Jordan Richard

Overview:
In this episode, Jordan Richard, a seasoned expert in the Kratom industry, shares his insights and personal journey with Kratom. The discussion delves into the complexities of Kratom use, its benefits, misconceptions, and the challenges faced by the industry.

Key Discussions:

1. Introduction to Kratom:
   • Jordan introduces himself and his background, including his past struggles with heroin addiction and how Kratom played a role in his recovery.
2. Misconceptions and Facts:
   • The episode addresses common misconceptions about Kratom, emphasizing the difference between Kratom and other substances like 7-hydroxy, which can cause respiratory depression.
   • Jordan discusses the importance of understanding that correlation does not imply causation, especially in cases labeled as Kratom-related deaths.
3. Kratom's Role in Addiction Recovery:
   • Jordan shares personal anecdotes and stories of others who have found Kratom to be a life-saving alternative to opioids.
4. Challenges in the Kratom Industry:
   • The episode highlights the challenges faced by the Kratom industry, including public perception and regulatory hurdles.
5. Resources and Advocacy:
   • Jordan recommends resources such as the American Kratom Association and Kratomanswers.org for reliable information.
   • He also mentions his book, "The Truth About Kratom: Life Saving Plant or Botanical Menace," as a comprehensive guide on the subject.
6. Personal Reflections and Future Directions:
   • The conversation concludes with Jordan reflecting on the future of Kratom and its potential to help others, emphasizing the need for proper education and advocacy.

Takeaways:

• Kratom can be a beneficial tool for those struggling with addiction, but it is crucial to approach it with informed caution.
• Misunderstandings and misinformation about Kratom are prevalent, and it's important to rely on credible sources for information.
• Advocacy and education are key to changing public perception and ensuring the safe use of Kratom.

Resources Mentioned:

• American Kratom Association
• Kratomanswers.org
• "The Truth About Kratom: Life Saving Plant or Botanical Menace" by Jordan Richard

Contact Information:

• Tiktok- Kr8tomninja

Listener Engagement:

Subscribe to our podcast for more expert information.

This episode provides a nuanced look at Kratom, offering listeners a blend of personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice.

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**A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for granting us permission to use his music on the show!

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