Belonging Didn’t Come From Fitting In

Connect with Mike here - https://www.facebook.com/mike.potratz.2025Keywordsadoptee, resilience, somatic healing, trauma-informed coaching, mental health, self-discovery, emotional healing, personal growth, community support, empathySummaryIn this episode of the Resilience Project Podcast, host Julie Brumley interviews Mike, a client who shares his journey as an adoptee navigating trauma and healing. They discuss the challenges of feeling like a misfit, the turning points that led Mike to seek help, and the transformative power of somatic work. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, trust, and self-discovery in the healing process, as well as the unique experiences of adoptees. Mike's insights provide encouragement for others facing similar struggles, highlighting that change is possible and worth pursuing.TakeawaysMike describes feeling like a misfit in his own skin.The turning point for Mike was discovering the book 'Primal Wound'.Adoptees often adapt to fit in, leading to a chameleon effect.Isolation can be exacerbated by past relationships and societal perceptions.Building trust in a coaching relationship is crucial for healing.Somatic work has provided Mike with tools to connect with his emotions.Writing has become a powerful tool for self-reflection for Mike.Mike emphasizes the importance of empathy in relationships.The journey of healing is not easy but is worth it.Mike encourages others to seek help and not to fear the process.Sound bites"I belong everywhere and nowhere.""You don't have to live like this.""Empathy was locked away inside me."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mike's Journey03:48 Exploring Identity and Adoption05:42 The Impact of Divorce and Loneliness07:42 Understanding the Need for Change09:05 Navigating Relationships and Acceptance10:53 The Role of Coaching and Support12:39 The Power of Somatic Work15:12 Experiencing Empathy and Healing20:45 Exploring Emotional Awareness22:24 Uncovering Life Patterns24:12 Accessing Inner Worlds25:02 Empathy and Relational Changes26:42 Pride in Personal Growth27:55 Navigating Difficult Emotions29:39 Encouragement for the Stuck29:59 Facing Fears in Healing30:27 The Value of Shared Experience31:40 The Coaching Experience33:14 Hope for the Future34:27 NEWCHAPTERWebsiteInstagram: @juliebrumley_Facebook: julierasbrumTikTok: @juliebrumley_Click to Join My Free Adoptee Facebook GroupYou Tube: @julie_brumley