Activation and discretion warning: These notes and this episode contain explicit and graphic descriptions of kidnapping, physical assault, and rape. Caution and action are required. This episode is not for children. Please use extreme discretion in listening to this episode and if you are activated or triggered and need help, call the national sexual assault telephone hotline at1-800.656.hope; that’s 1-800-656-4673.   Imagine being a teenaged gay person living with a father who thinks homosexuals should be killed. And then, when you try to make a connection with another gay 15-year-old, you find out he’s not really 15…he’s closer to 50, and he kidnaps you, beats you, then rapes you. Afterwards, you have no one to report the crime to, and no one to confide in because if you do, your father will know you’re gay. It’s a devastating life, living with this torment for the next 7 years. It is a situation that would cause most people to want to not be alive. That’s what Plamen Draganov thought: that not being on earth any longer would be better than living with his memories and feeling the way he felt. But it wasn’t the end for Plamen. In his early twenties, he found solace in learning Tai Chi. And then he found a mentor to help him in learning how to teach Tai Chi, including the mental processes necessary for practicing Tai Chi correctly…learning how to control one’s mind to control one’s body. Things started to change for Plamen; he started learning about psychology on his own, too. The healing had begun. But healing can be as devastating as the assault…until it’s not. When milestones are reached, and the realizations of shame and guilt are manifested, life can start to get better. It did for Plamen. And it still is; while meeting the qualifications to be a life coach, Plamen also learned that his healing must continue. Listen to Plamen’s episode. You’ll hear him reveal his healing process in a tremendously raw, transparent, and brutally honest way. This is truth in one of the most healing manifestations that I’ve encountered. Plamen offers to help others in several ways: telling his story of being kidnapped, beaten, and raped is one way. Another is through teaching Tai Chi. And he also is a practicing life coach. Here is the bio Plamen provided: “From a degree in Marketing and Management to a profound journey in psychology, Plamen's career is a narrative of transformative change. Choosing to pivot from a conventional career to follow his passion for understanding the human psyche, he has emerged as a guiding light in trauma coaching, blending professional knowledge with his personal victory over life's adversities. Adept in Tai Chi and Chinese martial arts, trained under world-renowned masters, Plamen has earned numerous national and European gold medals. His skill in Tai Chi complements his certification in mindset coaching, specializing in trauma and self-sabotage. This combination offers a comprehensive approach to healing and personal growth. Plamen's life story is integral to his professional identity. Tai Chi was his refuge during challenging times, leading him to his vocation as a trauma coach. He is driven by a mission to ensure that no one feels compelled to live in the shadows of their traumatic past. Client’s praise Plamen for creating an environment of tranquility and understanding. Known for his calm demeanor and insightful questions, he helps clients see new possibilities and paths forward. As a client once said, Plamen helps you find hope and alternative perspectives, making you feel understood and never alone. Currently writing a book, Plamen aspires to share his insights on a global scale. His ultimate goal is to speak on international stages, impacting millions with his story of resilience and hope. Plamen’s mantra, born from his trials, is a message of empowerment: "I’ve been pushed to the edge so many times, I’ve learned to fly." His journey is an invitation for others to discover their inner strength and soar." How to get in touch -  Additional links I hope you’ll check out. #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #retireddetective #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed#safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #ericbarreras #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #baylor