In this lively and heartfelt episode of Overcoming Adversity, Amanda Marino and co-host Sarah Frias dive into the real meaning of independence. From personal growth to leadership, relationships, and running a business, they explore the fine line between true independence and the need for control. Can you be independent while still asking for help? How does letting go of control lead to greater success? They share candid stories, personal challenges, and even a little bathroom wisdom (yes, really!) to bring you an episode packed with insight, laughs, and inspiration. Tune in for honest conversations, a few unexpected revelations, and a reminder to embrace life—messy moments and all!

Next Level Recovery Associates:
Instagram: @nextlevelrecoveryassoc
Facebook: Next Level Recovery Associates
LinkedIn: Next Level Recovery Associates
TikTok: @nextlevelrecoveryassoc
YouTube: Next Level Recovery Associates

Amanda Marino:
Instagram: @amandamarinorecovery
Facebook: Amanda Marino, Behavioral Health Consultant and Interventionist
LinkedIn: Amanda Marino
TikTok: @amandamarinorecovery
YouTube: @amandamarinorecovery

Sarah Frias:
Instagram: @sarahefrias

This episode has been a long time coming, and trust us—it was worth the wait. Amanda and Sarah finally sit down with therapist Ben Taratuta, LMHC, to talk about trauma, healing, and how our past shapes us in ways we don’t always realize.

Ben gets personal about the moment his life changed forever—when his father suffered a traumatic brain injury—and how that experience led him to question everything, from his own emotions to the meaning of resilience. They dive into the connection between childhood trauma, addiction, and mental health, why so many people minimize their struggles, and what real healing actually looks like.

It’s an open, honest, and sometimes hilarious conversation about growth, therapy, and learning to shift from blame to understanding. If you’ve ever struggled with your past or wondered how to move forward, this episode is for you.

In This Episode:
🔹 How childhood trauma shapes identity, relationships, and mental health
🔹 Ben’s personal journey—from questioning everything to becoming a therapist
🔹 Why people minimize trauma & how to break free from that mindset
🔹 The link between trauma, addiction, and emotional regulation
🔹 How shifting from blame to understanding can change everything

Find Ben at Taratuta Counseling and connect with Amanda & Sarah:

Next Level Recovery Associates:
Instagram: @nextlevelrecoveryassoc
Facebook: Next Level Recovery Associates
LinkedIn: Next Level Recovery Associates
TikTok: @nextlevelrecoveryassoc
YouTube: Next Level Recovery Associates

Amanda Marino:
Instagram: @amandamarinorecovery
Facebook: Amanda Marino, Behavioral Health Consultant and Interventionist
LinkedIn: Amanda Marino
TikTok: @amandamarinorecovery
YouTube: @amandamarinorecovery

Sarah Frias:
Instagram: @sarahefrias

In this episode of Overcoming Adversity, Amanda, Sarah, and Matt sit down with therapist Esin Pinarli for a look into narcissism, trauma, and the stuff we rarely talk about. Esin keeps it real, sharing how everything from somatic therapy to brain spotting and internal family systems (IFS) can help us break free from the emotional junk holding us back.

Ever wondered why some relationships drain the life out of you? Or why setting boundaries feels so damn hard? Esin breaks it all down in a way that makes sense—and yes, we even touch on those awkward moments when you just want to cry but end up laughing instead. It’s not just therapy talk; it's real life, real struggles, and real healing. If you’ve ever dealt with narcissism or just need some honest advice on reconnecting with yourself, this episode's got you covered. Expect a few laughs, some eye-openers, and tips you can actually use in your day-to-day.

Next Level Recovery Associates:
Instagram: @nextlevelrecoveryassoc
Facebook: Next Level Recovery Associates
LinkedIn: Next Level Recovery Associates
TikTok: @nextlevelrecoveryassoc
YouTube: Next Level Recovery Associates

Amanda Marino:
Instagram: @amandamarinorecovery
Facebook: Amanda Marino, Behavioral Health Consultant and Interventionist
LinkedIn: Amanda Marino
TikTok: @amandamarinorecovery
YouTube: @amandamarinorecovery