The Honesty Experiment

PODCAST · education

The Honesty Experiment

Radical honesty. Real transformation.Most people live their lives avoiding the hardest conversations—the ones they need to have with themselves. The Honesty Experiment is a raw, no-BS journey into self-discovery, where we strip away the excuses, confront our own lies, and get to the root of what’s holding us back. Hosted by Eric Ruth, author of Ruthless and founder of The Honesty Experiment, this podcast explores the power of journaling, self-inquiry, and wisdom to create real, lasting change.

  1. 12

    HIT with Dallas (childhood trauma, cancer, alcoholism, divorce)

    Feel like your past keeps showing up in your relationships, your work, or the way you talk to yourself?In this raw and real episode, Eric sits down with Dallas Collis, a man who faced down childhood trauma, addiction, the loss of his marriage, and cancer all in one year; only to come out the other side sharper, stronger, and finally free.They unpack the hidden trauma most men carry, how it leads to burnout, and why “just trying harder” isn’t enough. Dallas shares the hard truth: if you don’t take ownership of your life, your story will run you, and ruin you.If you’re ready to stop blaming others and start leading your life with purpose and presence, this conversation is your wake-up call.Listen in to learn:Why trauma affects high-performing men more than they thinkHow blame and addiction show up as “normal”Why Stoicism alone won’t save you, and what willThe difference between the mind and the “story mind”Daily habits to rebuild discipline, clarity, and controlWhat to do when you feel like giving upThis is for those ready to level up their mental game, rebuild their focus, and get honest about what’s not working.If you want to learn how to own your story instead of being owned by it, this is your episode.

  2. 11

    HIT with Jason (father killed young, own PTSD as a LEO, and surviving a coma)

    Attention First Responders! In this vulnerable episode of The Honesty Experiment, Jason Prayson, a former firefighter and cop shares his powerful story of overcoming trauma and embracing emotional vulnerability as a man. Jason, a mountain of a man, opens up about the loss of his father as a child, the emotional weight of his career, and how unresolved trauma impacted his mental health and relationships. After a life-changing medical event that concluded with him in a coma, he began a journey of healing, self-care, and redefining masculinity. This episode is a must-listen for men working through trauma, PTSD, or emotional numbness—offering practical insight on setting boundaries, confronting pain, and growing through vulnerability. Especially first responders. Keywords: men’s trauma, healing for men, masculinity, vulnerability in men, PTSD, emotional health, male mental health, personal growth for men, trauma recovery, self-care for men, first responders

  3. 10

    HIT with Anne-Marie (childhood abuse by intergenerational trauma))

    Surviving trauma is just the beginning, true healing requires self-discovery, resilience, and the right tools. In this episode of The Honesty Experiment, Anne-Marie opens up about her journey through intergenerational trauma, the struggles of living with CPTSD, and the coping mechanisms that helped her reclaim her life. She shares how Stoicism, journaling, music, and self-reflection became powerful tools for emotional regulation, offering a fresh perspective on forgiveness and the importance of moving beyond the identity of a trauma survivor.Anne-Marie is the founder of Red Door Doula, where she provides compassionate end-of-life support for individuals and families navigating grief and loss. Through her work, she helps others find peace, purpose, and emotional healing during life’s most challenging transitions.Listen as Anne-Marie explores how Stoicism, music, and supportive relationships helped her find joy and purpose. Whether you're navigating your own healing journey or seeking insights on personal growth, this episode is a must-listen.🔹 How Stoicism provides a framework for controlling emotions🔹 Why forgiveness is not required for healing🔹 The role of nature, music, and connection in mental well-being🔹 How to create a safe mental space for recovery🔹 Why moving beyond a trauma identity is essential for growthIf you're ready to transform pain into strength, tune in now and take the next step in your healing journey.🌿 Learn more about Anne-Marie’s work at Red Door Doula#Trauma #Healing #CopingMechanisms #Stoicism #Forgiveness #SelfDiscovery #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #Identity #GriefSupport #RedDoorDoula

  4. 9

    HIT with Jay (abandonment after adoption)

    In the latest episode, Jay opens up about his journey of overcoming trauma rooted in abandonment from his adoption. Jay shares how his trauma shaped his relationships, particularly with women, and the healing work he has done through therapy and self-reflection. He highlights the power of vulnerability, the importance of daily resilience-building practices, and the role of forgiveness in personal growth. Jay also offers valuable advice for those struggling with trauma and encourages openness in parenting and relationships.

  5. 8

    HIT with JB (childhood institutionalization)

    Forged Through Adversity: JB’s Journey from Trauma in Childhood, Special Operations, and BeyondIn this episode, JB shares his extraordinary transformation from a childhood spent in group homes to serving in the military’s special operations community. His path was anything but easy—navigating the instability of the system, facing trauma head-on, and developing the mental toughness needed to survive and thrive.Through writing, meditation, and the power of forgiveness, JB found healing and purpose. We dive into how childhood trauma shapes relationships, how storytelling became his refuge, and why grit, discipline, and a strong support system are essential for overcoming adversity. JB also makes a powerful case for greater accountability in the system to ensure kids don’t just survive but succeed.This is a conversation about resilience, transformation, and breaking the cycle.#Resilience #Healing #GroupHomes #FosterCare #TraumaRecovery #Mindset #Meditation #SpecialWarriors #OvercomingAdversity #TheHonestyExperiment

  6. 7

    HIT with Andrea (alcoholic parent & domestic violence relationship)

    In this episode of The HIT Podcast, Eric deposes Andrea, a former educator turned entrepreneur and Online Business & Social Media Strategist. Andrea shares her powerful journey of escaping childhood trauma and domestic violence and then rebuilding her life through financial independence. She opens up about the lasting impact of childhood trauma, navigating an abusive relationship, and the deep healing process that followed.Through therapy, journaling, and shadow work, Andrea found resilience and self-acceptance. Now, she helps others launch and grow their own online businesses, turning struggle into strength. Her story is one of survival, empowerment, and hope.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about self-acceptance and the power of forging your own path forward.Learn more about Andrea’s work: herpathforward.org#TheHITPodcast #TheHonestyExperiment #Documentary #DailyJournal #Journaling #Purpose #Meditation #Journal #Good #BeGood #DoGood #BeBetter #ReviewYourDay #TheGoodlyGroup #Nonprofit #Stoicism #SelfHonesty #RadicalHonesty #GrowthMindset #SelfImprovement #MindsetMatters #StoicMindset #InnerStrength #Resilience #HealingJourney #SelfReflection #Accountability #MensGrowth #MentalClarity #MindsetShift #JournalingCommunity #WriteYourStory #PersonalDevelopment #LifePurpose #DailyStoic #HonestLiving #SelfAwareness #BetterHabits #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #TruthSeeker #SelfDiscovery #DeepWork #InnerPeace #ShadowWork #LiveWithPurpose #TheHonestExperiment

  7. 6

    HIT with Susanna Miller (emotional neglect) and Eric Ruth (childhood trauma)

    In this episode of The Honesty Experiment, Eric and his wife, Susanna, dive deep into the complexities of trauma, self-awareness, and healing. Together, they unpack how past experiences shape daily interactions, relationships, and parenting. Susanna opens up about her personal journey, childhood influences, and the lasting effects of past relationships, while Eric shares his own struggles and the work he has done to break free from destructive patterns.Through candid conversation, they explore the role of therapy, communication, and resilience in overcoming trauma. From managing triggers to shifting the way we approach apologies and self-perception, this episode is a deep dive into the ongoing work required to heal and grow. If you've ever struggled with the weight of your past or wondered how trauma influences your present, this conversation is for you.This episode also highlights "Sit Down. Let's Talk." a framework Susanna developed to help partners cultivate deeper communication and connection. Inspired by their own weekly couples meetings, this book offers practical tools to strengthen relationships through honest, structured conversations. Learn more at @couplescheckin.Join Eric and Susanna as they break down the barriers of self-deception and embrace the power of honest conversations.Listen now and start your own journey toward healing and self-discovery.

  8. 5

    HIT with Brinn (sexual assault by brother)

    In this powerful episode, therapist and holistic coach Brinn Langdale opens up about her journey of overcoming childhood sexual abuse by her brother and the deep self-exploration that led her to healing. She shares how trauma shaped her perception of herself, the moment everything started to make sense, and the tools she uses to help others break free from their own pain.Brinn dives into the importance of understanding trauma, the body’s role in healing, and how practices like yoga, meditation, and tapping (EFT) helped her reclaim her life. She challenges the belief that trauma has to define us and proves that resilience and transformation are possible.If you've ever wondered why you feel stuck or if healing is truly possible, this episode delivers raw honesty and practical tools. From forgiveness to emotional release, Brinn offers a real, no-nonsense path to healing and personal freedom.About Brinn Langdale:Brinn Langdale is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and holistic coach dedicated to helping individuals understand, heal, and embrace every part of themselves. With over a decade of experience, she integrates various therapeutic modalities, including nervous system regulation techniques and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), to support mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Brinn believes that everything one thinks, feels, and does makes absolute perfect sense given their life experiences, and understanding this is the first step toward healing. Connect with Brinn:Listeners can learn more about Brinn's work, access free resources, or schedule a session by visiting her website at brinnlangdale.com. She also offers free monthly workshops and a community platform for those seeking ongoing support. Tune in for an unfiltered conversation about trauma, resilience, and what it really takes to heal.

  9. 4

    HIT with Ryan (childhood sexual abuse by parent)

    Rising from the Ashes – Ryan’s Journey of Healing and Self-Love In this deeply personal episode, Ryan opens up about his journey of healing from childhood trauma, including physical and sexual abuse; and the lasting effects it had on his mental health and relationships. He shares how hitting rock bottom in 2016 became the turning point that led him to self-love, resilience, and transformation. Ryan discusses the power of setting boundaries, surrounding oneself with positive influences, and using coping strategies to move forward. His story serves as a powerful reminder that confronting the past and speaking up about trauma can lead to profound personal growth and healing.Growing up on a small island off the coast of Kent, he witnessed his mother’s abuse and then sexual abuse by a family member. Throughout his life, he struggled with his own mental health, leading to extremely self-destructive patterns. But hitting rock bottom in 2016 became the catalyst for change. Ryan shares how learning to love himself, setting boundaries, and embracing gratitude transformed his life. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the life-changing power of radical honesty.This is how you heal and move on.

  10. 3

    HIT with Nicole (emotionally unavailable father)

    In this powerful debut episode of The HIT Show, from The Honesty Experiment, attorney and trauma survivor Eric Ruth sits down with Nicole Harmony, a trauma-informed holistic practitioner dedicated to helping others heal from stress, chronic pain, illness, anxiety, and depression. Nicole specializes in integrating and healing the "little one" inside all of us—the part responsible for sabotaging our goals and creating unhealthy patterns, habits, and limiting beliefs.Nicole shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma, particularly the emotional unavailability of her father, and how it shaped her self-worth, relationships, and career. She opens up about the toxic cycles she found herself in—both personally and professionally—and the turning points that led to her transformation.Through her curated methodology, The Memory Integration Technique, Nicole helps people access and rewire their limiting beliefs by creating new neural pathways, leading to healthier beliefs, behaviors, and a more fulfilling life. Passionate about removing the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and reducing male suicide rates, Nicole travels the world as a digital nomad, serving clients globally and guiding them on their healing journeys.This conversation is a raw, insightful exploration of resilience, radical self-honesty, and the tools we can all use to reclaim our worth and break free from limiting cycles.Nicole graciously shared her journal for free with listeners, who can download it here: https://nicoleharmony.com/shadow-workdownload1

  11. 2

    Intro to The Honesty Experiment

    In this first episode of The Honesty Experiment, I lay it all out. No filters, no excuses—just the truth.For years, I was the master of self-deception. I lied to others, but more than that, I lied to myself. I built a life on stories that weren’t real, excuses that kept me stuck, and a victim mentality that let me avoid the hard work of change. It wasn’t until I faced myself—ruthlessly—that I finally understood what real transformation takes.This episode is my story. The moments that forced me to wake up. The practices that saved me. And why I started The Honesty Experiment—a movement dedicated to helping people do the hardest thing in the world: tell themselves the truth.If you’re tired of your own bullshit, if you’re ready to start being radically honest with yourself, this is where we begin.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Radical honesty. Real transformation.Most people live their lives avoiding the hardest conversations—the ones they need to have with themselves. The Honesty Experiment is a raw, no-BS journey into self-discovery, where we strip away the excuses, confront our own lies, and get to the root of what’s holding us back. Hosted by Eric Ruth, author of Ruthless and founder of The Honesty Experiment, this podcast explores the power of journaling, self-inquiry, and wisdom to create real, lasting change.

HOSTED BY

Eric Ruth

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