May 21, 2025

Breaking Up with Fear with Carolyn Murphy

Breaking Up with Fear with Carolyn Murphy

Welcome back to the blog of "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now," the podcast where we dive deep into the moments of transformation, the times when 'not yet' shifts into 'right now' and everything changes. Hosted by Jen Ginty, a single mom living with Complex PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder from childhood trauma, this podcast is dedicated to exploring those pivotal moments in our life journeys. It's about when the hesitation fades, when we take that first step even if it feels like a leap, and where growth and Healing Begins. Jen created this podcast because she realized her story of pushing away the hard work of facing her trauma was just one journey, and there are countless other journeys out there—each just as important and impactful.
In a powerful episode, Jen speaks with Carolyn Murphy, a fellow trauma survivor and advocate, about her journey from trauma to empowerment. Carolyn bravely shares her origin story, detailing the impact of early trauma on her life choices and the profound struggle with perfectionism and fear that followed. For many survivors, trauma can erase one's sense of identity, and the conversation with Carolyn highlights how these early experiences can lead to challenging patterns, including a cycle of unhealthy relationships.
Carolyn discusses the pivotal moments in 2018 that served as catalysts for change, leading her to finally embrace the work needed for transformation. Often, as the podcast explores, transformation often begins with a pivotal moment, sometimes arising from moments of crisis. Breaking free from the grip of fear and perfectionism, which can feel like a prison stifling growth, is a central theme in her story.
Now a peer recovery specialist, Carolyn emphasizes the vital role that peer support can provide in offering hope and guidance in recovery. She speaks to the importance of authenticity, which she stresses is crucial for personal healing, and how overcoming people-pleasing was a significant step in her journey. A deep dive into the role of faith reveals how it has served as a significant foundation for overcoming challenges and finding purpose beyond pain.
This episode truly embodies the spirit of "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now," showcasing how embracing the difficult work, sometimes spurred by crisis, can lead to profound healing and the ability to empower others.
Here are the Key Takeaways from Jen's conversation with Carolyn Murphy:
The moment you've been waiting for has already arrived.
Trauma can lead to a cycle of unhealthy relationships.
Perfectionism often stems from trauma responses.
Fear can act as a prison, stifling growth.
Catalysts for change often come from moments of crisis.
Peer support can provide hope and guidance in recovery.
Authenticity is crucial for personal healing.
Faith plays a significant role in overcoming challenges.
You can explore these themes further by listening to the episode, with key moments highlighted at:
[04:06] The Impact of Childhood Trauma
[07:11] Perfectionism and Its Roots in Trauma
[10:00] Understanding Fear and Its Physical Manifestations
[12:36] Breaking Free from Fear: A Personal Journey
[18:39] Becoming a Peer Recovery Specialist
[21:50] Authenticity and Overcoming People-Pleasing
[27:41] The Meaning Behind the Book
[30:53] Faith as a Foundation for Healing
[33:54] Finding Purpose Beyond Pain
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Carolyn Murphy:
This episode is a powerful reminder that, though the journey through trauma is challenging, with the right support and the courage to do the work, transformation is possible, turning those "not yet" moments into "right now."