Episode 203: J. Dana Trent

I can’t imagine coming home from preschool and being christened into the drug trafficking business by your father. But Dana Trent can because that’s exactly what happened to her. In this conversation, Dana and I discuss her story growing up with two mentally unwell parents as told through her excellent memoir Between Two Trailers.Dana shares experiences with childhood trauma, identity formation, and spiritual practices that aid healing. We discuss the role of Christian community in supporting mental health through practices like active listening, vulnerability, and meeting basic needs. She emphasizes developing empathy for those struggling and using churches as hubs for open conversations and small groups. It’s a fantastic conversation that dives deep into trauma, identity, and healing. So join us as we find our way out of adverse childhood experiences into a life of meaning and belonging.

J. Dana Trent is a speaker, professor, award-winning spirituality author, and minister. A graduate of Duke Divinity School, she teaches world religions and critical thinking at Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Dana's Book:
Between Two Trailers