What I Wish I Knew at 14 featuring Mr. Martin Simms

In this intimate episode, Dr. Branch sits down with Mr. Martin Simms for a vulnerable conversation about pain, purpose, and perseverance. At just 14, Martin witnessed a traumatic event that shaped his life in unexpected ways. He opens up about navigating grief, depression, and the challenge of growing up while carrying emotional weight no child should bear. Through therapy and a willingness to try things he had never done before, Martin developed deeper emotional intelligence and learned to trust himself. His journey explores the impact of sports, the power of dreaming beyond one's environment, and his connection to Dr. Bruce Perry’s Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. Martin also reflects on grief, loss, and how basketball has become a tool for healing, not just for himself, but also for the youth he now coaches and mentors. This episode invites you into the “basement,” where real stories are told and fundamental transformation begins. Martin’s story reminds us that sometimes our pain is preparing us for our purpose.🎯 3 Challenges (Lifework) Reflect on a moment from your childhood that has shaped your perspective on the world. What did it teach you, and what are you still learning from it today?Try something you’ve never done before—especially if it might help you grow emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.Do something for an old version of yourself.Pick an age when you felt lost, unheard, or unseen. Maybe it was 14. Maybe younger. Do one small act this week that honors that version of you. Write them a letter, revisit a place they felt safe, or give someone else the kindness you needed back then.This episode is brought to you by our amazing sponsor:J Branch & Associates: Schedule your free 15 minute consultation by going to www.drjbranch.com; call or text (404) 436-2540 Connect with The 3 Parallels Podcast:Instagram: www.instagram.com/3parallelspodcastDownload the 3 Parallels Music Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2DCvaDp1wWypO59l1kearH?si=sy0X9tMcSNumk4ym-VZ9LQDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show on Spotify, IHeart, Apple Podcast, and YouTube. Your feedback helps us inspire more listeners like you!Get your copy of the Gator Scales Journal on Amazonhttps://www.amazon.com/Gator-Scales-Journal-Jason-Branch/dp/B0DPXLXZWCGator Talk: Every Friday via Zoom at 9am PST/12pm EST  Join the conversation every Friday starting today on The 3 Parallels Podcast Post Show Q&A Session called Gator Talk.When: Every Friday Where: Battlecat Studios (Zoom) Zoom Link: https://alliant.zoom.us/j/4044362540IG Live: @3ParallelspodcastMeeting ID:404-436-2540Time: 9:00am PST/ 12:00pm ESTConnect with Dr. Branch: www.drjbranch.com | [email protected] | (858) 786-3638Therapy available in NJ, PA, and GA.Coaching available everywhere. Book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/drjbranch/balloon-string-session-cloneGator University Free Community:https://www.skool.com/gator-university-4736/about Support the show on Cash App:$3ParallelsPodcast