Her Roots Survived the Fire
A Conversation with Jullian
Episode Summary
In this conversation, Patti sits with Jullian to explore what it means to grow up in instability and still choose a different way forward.
Jullian shares her experience of being removed from her parents’ home as a child and navigating the transition into her grandparents’ care. She reflects on the complexity of growing up in a family shaped by addiction, separation, and change, while also finding deep connection, love, and belonging in unexpected places.
This episode also explores the grief of what wasn’t given, the loss of her father later in life, and the ongoing process of forgiveness. Through each season, Jullian speaks to the strength of her roots, the impact of the people who showed her a different way, and the intentional choices she’s made to build a life grounded in love, stability, and connection.
In This Episode
Topics discussed include:
• childhood trauma and instability
• being separated from parents and placed with caregivers
• the impact of addiction on families
• grief for what wasn’t received in early life
• navigating identity and belonging
• forgiveness as an ongoing process
• breaking generational cycles
• choosing a different path forward
If You Relate to This Episode
Growing up in instability can leave lasting questions.
You may find yourself carrying:
• grief for the childhood you didn’t have
• confusion around identity, belonging, or worth
• anger, resentment, or unresolved pain
• a desire to build something different, but not knowing where to start
You are not limited to where you began.
There is space to choose, to grow, and to build something new.
Resources
Support for Addiction & Recovery
• SAMHSA National Helpline (U.S.)
1-800-662-4357
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
https://www.aa.org
• Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
https://www.na.org
For Children of Addiction & Family Dysfunction
• Al-Anon Family Groups
https://al-anon.org
• Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families (ACA)
https://adultchildren.org
These communities are designed for those who grew up in environments shaped by addiction or instability.
Trauma & Mental Health Support
• National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
https://www.nctsn.org
• Mental Health America
https://www.mhanational.org
• Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
https://988lifeline.org
Need Support?
If this conversation brings up emotions or you find yourself needing support, Patti offers one-on-one conversations for those navigating grief, loss, and life transitions.
You’re welcome to reach out here.
Reflection
What parts of your story feel like they defined you?
And what parts are still yours to choose?
Share This Episode
“Where you come from may shape you… but it doesn’t have to decide who you become.”
If this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone who may need that reminder.
