48: Left Alone for Days as a Child, Foster Care, and Fighting in Afghanistan with Denny Giamazzo

Denny Giamazzo opens up about a childhood shaped by neglect, abuse, and survival. From being left alone for days while his mother battled addiction and worked as a sex worker to rebuilding his life after foster care, loss, and service as a combat veteran, his story shows what it means to turn pain into purpose. After years of physical abuse and being taken from his home, Denny entered foster care and finally experienced what safety and love could feel like. He shares the devastating loss of his mother to AIDS and his foster mom to a sudden heart attack, along with the lasting impact of trauma that defined how he saw himself and the world around him.As a young adult, Denny joined the military and served in Afghanistan, facing the violence of war and the emotional battles that followed. He speaks candidly about PTSD, compartmentalizing pain, and how his unresolved childhood trauma carried into adulthood, marriage, and relationships. Through therapy, reflection, and brutal honesty, Denny is learning to heal, trust again, and redefine what strength really means. This episode explores childhood abuse, foster care, military trauma, and the lifelong journey of recovery and self-acceptance.Denny’s Links:https://www.instagram.com/dennygiamazzo‘Wired For Action: TRAUMA. WAR. RESILIENCE.’ By Denny GiamazzoAvailable NOW!https://a.co/d/buR5KZdBe The Standard Podcasthttps://www.bethestandardpodcast.comhttps://www.instagram.com/bethestandardpodcasthttps://www.tiktok.com/@be.the.standardResources:Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline1-800-422-4453https://www.nctsn.orgAdult Survivors of Child Abuse (ASCA)ascasupport.orgVeterans Crisis LineDial 988 then press 1 or text 838255SAMHSA National Helpline1-800-662-4357Beyond the Monsters Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here: https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.