In this raw and revealing episode, Lyndsay Soprano invites bestselling author Cassie Gustafson to share her journey of healing through writing. Cassie, the voice behind the powerful YA novels "After the Ink Dries" and "The Secrets We Keep," discusses the cathartic process of transforming personal trauma into poignant storytelling.

With a life shadowed by abuse and trauma, Cassie and Lyndsay delve into the dark corners of their pasts, uncovering the resilience it takes to confront suppressed memories and the strength found in the written word. From angsty poetry to bestselling novels, Cassie's narrative is a testament to the therapeutic power of writing, as she crafts her experiences into stories that resonate with readers and survivors alike.

Throughout the conversation, they explore the intersection of chronic illness and emotional trauma, as Cassie opens up about her battle with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome—a condition she believes may have been exacerbated by years of unaddressed pain. The episode is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling to find their voice amidst the chaos of past hurts.

Cassie's tale is not only her own but a universal echo of the struggle and triumph over life's deepest wounds. As they discuss the importance of self-love and the courage to face one's history, this episode stands as a powerful reminder that sometimes, the only way out is through.

For those seeking solace, inspiration, or a kindred spirit in the fight against the shadows of abuse, this episode is a must-listen. Dive into the depths of healing, the beauty of resilience, and the undeniable impact of sharing one's truth.

You can find Cassie online at:

Website: www.cassiegustafson.com
Instagram: @cassiegusty

Her books, "The Secrets We Keep" and "After the Ink Dries", are available wherever books are sold.
If this conversation resonates with you, or you know someone who needs to hear it, don't hesitate to share the episode and reach out. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Let's navigate the pain game together.

#ThePainGamePodcast #HealingThroughWriting #Trauma #ChronicIllness #YABooks #Resilience #SelfLove #PodcastCommunity #MastCellActivationSyndrome #SurvivorStories


📋 Episode Chapters

(00:00) This podcast focuses on how to heal from chronic pain and trauma
(02:07) Cassie Gustafson is the author of two YA contemporary novels
(02:46) Talk about how writing helped you heal from trauma and illness
(07:51) When did you start writing? I think I started writing when I was younger
(14:42) With my third book, I'm going to do something completely different
(17:47) Do you think your illness came from facing music in your writing
(18:20) You have mast cell activation syndrome, which is an autoimmune disease
(26:07) Facing down trauma while your body is failing that was the hardest
(31:30) We're here for people that are listening and for anybody that needs help
(34:55) You had said that you had to write this out of your body
(40:37) TikTok: Thank you for sharing your story with us today
(45:12) I admire you for continuing to do this work. It is definitely challenging
(45:51) Welcome to the Pain Game podcast. If you are struggling with trauma, please reach out