In this deeply personal episode of The Mental Health Toolbox, we welcome Tate Barkley, a man who rose from the small-town struggles of North Carolina to find himself amidst family secrets, addiction, and the fight for self-acceptance. Tate shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism, losing his law practice, hitting rock bottom and subsequently taking responsibility to change his life. Listen as he unfolds his story of survival in a good ole boys’ world, his quest for connection with an elusive father, and his path to accepting his true self. This episode is a testament to resilience, the power of transformation, and the courage it takes to face one’s past. Join us for an inspiring conversation that promises to touch your heart and open your mind, as we learn from Tate about overcoming addiction, family secrets and redefining success.
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Table of Contents
BIO: Tate Barkley on Overcoming Addiction, Family Secrets, & Redefining Success
Tate Barkley grew up in the small towns of North Carolina, where money was tight, dreams seldom came true, and family secrets were kept hidden. His Grandmother’s house was a sanctuary where he felt loved—and her big Sunday dinners nourished his stomach and his soul. After his parents divorced, he discovered his mother’s new boyfriend, and eventual husband, was his biological father— a charming dreamer who would disappear for months at a time, leaving his family to fend for themselves. As a teen, Tate began drinking. His father was a heavy drinker, and Tate was always looking for ways to connect with him, for a way to hold on to the moment before he slipped away again. Drinking gave Tate a sense of calm, and it numbed him from the love he was missing in his life. After years of drinking, losing his law practice, and hitting rock bottom he realized he either needed to take responsibility and change—or he’d end up dead.
This is a Southern boy’s story of surviving in a good ole boys’ world. Tate fought his way back, ended a life built on lies, and forged a path to accept his true self—with or without his father’s love.
http://tatebarkley.com
Learn More About: Michael Tate Barkley and Overcoming Addiction Family Secrets and Redefining Success
CONTACT AND SOCIALS:
- Website: http://tatebarkley.com
- YouTube: http://tatebarkley.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-tate-barkley-3014bb14
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barkley.tate
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barkley.tate
- BOOK: SUNDAY DINNERS, MOONSHINE, AND MEN: https://amzn.to/475SjhE
Watch The Interview
If you liked this episode, be sure to check out my full playlist of interviews here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnPL9gahfhWatKmy2YSyU0jt20h_jrj3H
Listen To The Interview
*Some of the links are affiliate links: As an Associate I earn from qualifying purchases by way of commission at no additional cost to you.
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Mission Statement: To equip therapists with the tools, knowledge, and strategies they need to enhance their practice, boost their income, and ultimately, improve the lives of their clients. We achieve this through accessible, high-quality content, practical resources, and a supportive community.
NEED CRISIS HELP? If you need immediate crisis help with your depression, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “START” to 741-741
OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES: See International Suicide Hotlines
WHERE TO FIND MENTAL HEALTH HELP:
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