ASKITA E173 "From Trauma to Triumph: Scott Kesson's Story of Loss and Growth" (audio only)

In this episode of ASKITA, John interviews Scott Kesson, LPC, a licensed professional counselor from Colorado, exploring Scott's background, including his experiences as a gay man, foster parent, and mental health professional spanning 35 years in various roles. The conversation highlighted Scott's resilience, growth mindset, and commitment to living life on his own terms, emphasizing the importance of pushing through difficult situations and prioritizing personal satisfaction over financial gain. Scott is one of John's oldest friends, whom he met in college at the University of Florida in January 1985. Scott has been talked about before on this as an example of true friendship by calling out John's potentially negative path and encouraging him to act more appropriately. He gets his chance to do it again! Scott shares his experience of losing both parents at a young age. His mother died of cancer when he was 12, and his father remarried within a year. A year after that, his father passed away from a heart attack when Scott was 14, leaving him to make funeral arrangements. Scott uses this traumatic experience as a baseline to overcome future challenges. He also describes how his family situation changed drastically within two years, going from a wealthy lifestyle to one of significant debt after his father's death. His new mother had to care for four children, including Scott and his brother, while dealing with financial difficulties. Behind the Name "A Swift Kick in the Ass" conveys the idea of a sudden, forceful action or reprimand intended to motivate or correct someone. This action is intended to help not hurt, in an entertaining way that aims to help people intentionally craft a way of life (or style of living) that aligns with the very essence of their mind, body and spirit by growing though your life experience. The first A Swift Kick in The Ass podcast episode was released October 8th 2014 by two lifelong friends, John Curren and Tom Stewart, who set out to disrupt conventional belief and get people thinking about not just how to live, but rather, thrive on their terms. In this partnership, the two lifetime friends produced over 100 episodes that have been heard in over 140 countries throughout this world. Sadly, on August 16th, 2020, Tom (Tommy) Stewart passed away from brain cancer with his wife by his side. Though Tom can no longer be at the microphone, it was his wish that the show go on. He felt the message was too important to be silenced. John Curren continues to share his journey and works to motivate others to live more fully on their terms.