#008 - Timothy Cho | Finding God in the Gulag: Trauma, Faith, and Purpose

In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Timothy Cho, a North Korean escapee, human rights advocate, and Christian activist, to explore his extraordinary journey—from surviving political prison camps in North Korea to building a new life in the United Kingdom.Timothy shares raw, first-hand accounts of escaping twice from North Korea, surviving Chinese detention, and the emotional toll of trauma, displacement, and rebuilding from scratch. He reflects on how his faith developed through suffering, the power of forgiveness, and the responsibility that comes with living in a free, democratic society.This conversation delves into the dangers of propaganda and dictatorship, the importance of global dialogue, and the ongoing fight for human rights around the world—including in North Korea, Ukraine, and China. Timothy and I also explore the role of empathy in education, mental health, and what it really means to be free.This episode is a must-listen for educators, students, faith leaders, activists, and anyone passionate about democracy, global justice, or resilience in the face of adversity.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on education, advocacy, and global citizenship.🎧 Also available on YouTube!