Welcome to No sitting on the sideline dad!
Oct. 20, 2026

Why Does Calm Feel Unsafe? Childhood Trauma and Survival Mode

Why Does Calm Feel Unsafe? Childhood Trauma and Survival Mode
No sitting on the sideline dad
Why Does Calm Feel Unsafe? Childhood Trauma and Survival Mode

Everything is going well. So why are you waiting for something bad to happen?

My sister, Carrie Long, joins me for a personal conversation about childhood trauma, codependency, and the habits we carry into our relationships and parenting.

We grew up in the same family. We didn't experience it the same way.

Carrie shares her perspective as a social worker and a mother. Together, we talk about learning to read the room, trying to keep everyone happy, and growing up feeling responsible for other people's problems.

What happens when those habits follow you into adulthood? How do you recognize when helping someone is leaving you drained? And how do you show up for your kids while you're still working through your own past?

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Why calm can feel unfamiliar after growing up around chaos.

  • Codependency and the pressure to rescue everyone.

  • How childhood experiences can shape parenting and relationships.

  • Setting boundaries without losing your compassion.

  • Forgiveness, gratitude, and finding someone you can talk to.

If you've ever thought, "I know what I don't want to repeat with my kids, but I'm still figuring out what to do instead," this conversation may feel familiar.

Connect with Carrie:

Castleheart Counseling on Facebook

Carrie Long on Headway

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Know a parent who might connect with this conversation? Send them this episode.

Content note: This episode includes discussion of childhood trauma, family addiction, mental health, and strong language.

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