A seven part series of short podcasts revolving around challenging discussions and topics. The Things We Carry. On this episode, we focus on Alcohol and the darker elements of one of society's most accessible vices.
The Things we Carry is a title inspired by a book that had an indelible impact on me, and still does. Tim O’Brien’s ‘The Things They Carried’ changed me in many ways. It explored the depths of the emotional experience of the Vietnam War for soldiers. As an 17 year old, going to a quality school, surrounded by wealth and privilege, it was an eyeopening exploration of things I’d thought about previously, but put to the side because of course, surely they can’t affect me!?! Trauma, death, the duality of man, the lasting impact of war on soldiers and civilians and the ethical questions that come with fighting a war that seemingly doesn’t have a clear point.
The Things We Carry is a look at the internal and external topics that people, particularly men, find difficult to talk about, but carry the impact, the effects, the statistics and the stories along with them. From alcohol to shame to sexuality, racism and big feelings and emotions that drive many of us to dark places, The Things We Carry will explore these challenging topics, but also open up opportunities for growth, development, empathy, understanding and connection. There are dark and difficult themes, as with most of my stuff, but there are also great opportunities for a conversation, learning and opening the door to talking about the hard stuff. Get involved, let us know what you think and check out my new website for an opportunity to book my documentary and for me to speak to your school, workplace or community group.
Welcome to a special series – The Things We Carry – a seven part series by The Ebbs and The Flows on things we find difficult to talk about.
This is episode one: Alcohol and The Darker elements.