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The Courageous Journey
Welcome to The Courageous Journey with Paula Walters.
I'm a speaker, consultant, paramedic, and trauma-informed educator passionate about helping people understand how trauma impacts the brain, nervous system, and body—and why that understanding changes everything.
After surviving childhood abuse, domestic violence, a near-fatal strangulation, and traumatic brain injury, I spent years searching for answers. It wasn't until I began asking, "What happened to me?" instead of "What's wrong with me?" that my healing truly began.
Each week, we'll explore the science of trauma, brain health, nervous system regulation, healing, and resilience through honest conversations, practical education, and real-life experiences.
Whether you're a survivor searching for answers, a healthcare professional, first responder, advocate, educator, caregiver, or simply someone wanting to better understand trauma, this podcast will challenge your perspective, expand your understanding, and remind you that healing is possible.
Together, we'll bridge neuroscience, lived experience, and hope—because when we understand trauma, we understand people.
Brain-Aware. Trauma-Informed. Survivor-Centered.
Disclaimer:
The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, mental health, or legal advice.
While I draw from my professional experience as a paramedic and my personal journey through trauma and recovery, this podcast does not replace care from qualified healthcare or mental health professionals.
Every healing journey is unique. Please consult an appropriate licensed professional regarding your individual health, medical, or mental health needs.
The Courageous Journey
Latest Episodes
The Beliefs That Hurt Worse Than The Abuse
The Beliefs That Hurt Me More Than the AbuseFor years, I believed the abuse itself was what kept me stuck. Looking back, I see something different.In this episode, I share one of the biggest breakthroughs in my healin...
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Life Didn't Interrupt My Mission—It Prepared Me for It | The Courageous Journey Returns
After a three-month break, I'm back—and this season begins with more than just an update. In this episode, I share what has been happening behind the scenes as I've cared for my mom through advanced dementia, prepared f...
The Courageous Survivor Season 2 Episode 7: My Brain Health Truth
Listen to this brave episode where Paula discusses her recent medical visit, and what she has learned about her brain function and health.
What Does Trauma Informed Mean to You?
Paula and her friend Kerri unpack what trauma-informed care really means — beyond training modules and checklists — and argue it must include how trauma rewires the body on a cellular level. They share personal experience with lif...