From Surviving to Thriving: An Interview with Author Tom Madigan (Part Two)

In Part Two of this episode, podcast host Bob Edholm continues the interview with his friend, Tom Madigan, regarding Tom’s new book entitled I Survived: Living with the Trauma of a Dependent Parent.

In Part One, Tom discussed his research into several current theories on the causes of alcohol dependency, and how genetic theories, as well as some environmental impacts, helped contribute to his dad’s alcoholism. Tom also shared his family history, particularly of his dad, his mother, and his sister.

In Part Two, Tom shares how some of the personality traits typical of children of a dependent were manifested in himself. But thanks to counseling, as well as support from family and mentors, Tom tells how he learned to recognize and address those traits so he could move forward with his life. Tom has gone from surviving to thriving. He has found success personally and professionally despite his trauma, and he hopes his book will provide a hopeful message for all people struggling with a dependent family member.