Thriving not Surviving
Thriving not Surviving
Podcast Description
Thriving, Not Surviving is a podcast for anyone who’s ever faced life’s challenges and wondered, Is there more to life than just getting by? Hosted by Helen Valentino, this show dives deep into personal growth, resilience, and the incredible power of transformation. Through solo episodes and inspiring guest interviews, we explore real-life stories of people who have not only overcome adversity but found ways to truly thrive.Whether you’re navigating change, seeking purpose, or just need a dose of motivation, this podcast is your companion on the journey to a more fulfilling life. Because you deserve more than survival—you deserve to thrive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on personal growth, resilience, and transformation, with topics such as overcoming trauma, healing through spirituality, and community support. Examples include episodes on how cacao aids self-discovery, the unique spiritual experience of the Give Festival, and personal stories of anxiety and recovery following significant life changes.

Thriving, Not Surviving is a podcast for anyone who’s ever faced life’s challenges and wondered, Is there more to life than just getting by? Hosted by Helen Valentino, this show dives deep into personal growth, resilience, and the incredible power of transformation. Through solo episodes and inspiring guest interviews, we explore real-life stories of people who have not only overcome adversity but found ways to truly thrive.
Whether you’re navigating change, seeking purpose, or just need a dose of motivation, this podcast is your companion on the journey to a more fulfilling life. Because you deserve more than survival—you deserve to thrive.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Keywords thriving, surviving, trauma, mentorship, healing, documentary, cinematography, social change, grief, community support
Summary In this episode of ‘Thriving Not Surviving’, host Helen Valentino engages in a deep conversation with Ben Cole, an actor, filmmaker, and mentor. They explore Ben’s journey from a challenging childhood, through the struggles of acting, to his eventual reinvention as a cinematographer and documentary filmmaker. The discussion delves into themes of trauma, healing, mentorship, and the importance of community support. Ben shares his insights on grief, self-discovery, and the role of elders in guiding the younger generation. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic change in society to better support those in need.
Takeaways
• Thriving means having tools and support to navigate life’s challenges
• Early trauma can shape identity, but it does not have to define the future
• Reinvention can be a powerful act of self-trust and healing
• Mentorship plays a vital role in growth, recovery and self-discovery
• Grief is an ongoing practice that many people are never taught
• Listening and presence can be profoundly healing for others
• Community support has the power to change lives
• Documentary filmmaking can be a vehicle for healing and social awareness
• Society needs systemic change in how it supports those who have suffered
• Awareness is the foundation of personal transformation
Sound Bites
“I had to reinvent myself.”
“Hurt people hurt people.”
“The real me was just awareness.”
Connect with Ben
Website: bencolecinematographysite.com
Boarding School film: Boarding on Insantity
Connect with Helen
Website: InspiredHealing.co.uk
IG: helens_inspired_healing
LinkedIn: Helen on LinkedIn
For full transcription, contact: [email protected]
🎵 Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios
🎨 Cover art: Dave Champagne
For full transcription, contact: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.