Sep 12 2024 52 mins
In this powerful episode, Katie Ward shares her deeply personal journey growing up in a divorced family, dealing with a complex relationship with her father, and how it shaped her perspective on life. Katie reflects on the struggles of abandonment, codependency, and the pursuit of her father’s approval, while also sharing how sports and teamwork gave her important life skills.
Join us as we explore love, vulnerability, and the beautiful growth that can emerge from our most challenging experiences.
Katie Ward's Childhood and Family Dynamics (00:02 - 04:51): Katie grew up in a divorced family, raised by a babysitter from a young age, with minimal involvement from her father. She developed trust and codependency issues but also learned independence. Her father was critical and controlling, particularly through sports, which gave her valuable lessons in teamwork but damaged her self-esteem.
Struggles with Parental Approval (06:02 - 07:48): Katie deeply desired her father’s approval, often begging him to express love, which was rarely given. She reflects on the importance of parents outwardly expressing love to their children, as a lack of it can create long-term emotional damage.
Career and Lessons from Working with Kids (32:11 - 38:35): As a swim instructor, Katie works closely with children and emphasizes the importance of positive reinforcement paired with boundaries. She avoids yelling, instead using constructive communication to guide behavior, which has profoundly shaped her understanding of child psychology.
Personal Growth and Self-Acceptance (30:02 - 32:11): After overcoming past heartbreaks and challenges, Katie has learned to embrace self-awareness and prioritize her personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of living in the present, learning from the past, and focusing on self-improvement.
Vision for a Children’s Camp (53:19 - 55:53): Katie shares her dream of creating a camp that helps children, especially those with disabilities, explore and learn in nature. She envisions a supportive environment that nurtures children’s curiosity and growth, underscoring the importance of creating positive experiences for future generations.
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