08 "I Just Wanted to Belong" [Raj's Story]

When have you felt like an outsider? And when have you felt like you truly belonged?

Today’s SUPERHUMAN storyteller, Raj Aggarwal, reveals to us our shared need for belonging. And how, if we’re outcasted or made to feel “other,” it can impact the course of our life. Raj shares how he initially found an unexpected sense of connection amongst a tribe of addicts. However, after a spiritual journey, he ultimately discovers his true addiction is in being in service to others.

Listen, absorb, and explore how you see yourself in Raj’s story.

Then share.

Trigger Warnings: addiction, racial disparity, social alienation, isolation

Emotional Themes: belonging, honesty, identity, friendship, tribalism, self-love, hope, gratitude, positivity, determination, persistence, resilience, ambition, uncertainty, coping, shame, adapting, support, fear, anger, rejection, discovery, curiosity

SUPERHUMANS is intended for mature audiences. Stories are raw and real. Do not consider this medical advice. Please consult with a health professional should you need medical attention.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Help is available 24 hours a day.

STORYTELLER BIO:

Raj Aggarwal lives his life looking through the lens of equity. In 1999, Raj founded Provoc, a certified B-Corporation that envisions a world where every progressive organization achieves its mission. Over twenty years of experience as a communications and technology strategist, he has worked with more than 400 nonprofits and socially responsible businesses on a variety of projects including internal and external branding, marketing and customer engagement. Raj keeps Provoc rooted in empathy-driven work by forging partnerships with values-aligned, visionary leaders and has led workshops and talks at dozens of national conferences. He serves on the boards of Think Local First, DC and Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation, and shares his story with the knowing that vulnerability opens up space for safety, trust and true human connection.

SHOWNOTES:

Raj Aggarwal: Website | LinkedIn

NPR: ‘"Heroin Abuse Sucks’: Recovering Addict Tells His Tale"

Provoc.me: "Vulnerability in Business"

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SHOW CREDITS:

Executive Producer & Show Co-Creator - Dr. Gautam Gulati

Senior Producer & Show Co-Creator - Pamela Rothenberg

Sound Design & Mixing - Rob Speight

Audio Engineer - Jay Wujun Yow

Community & Content Manager - Tara Bhikha

Original Theme Music Composition - Daniel Brunelle

Strategic Advisor - Mark Brand

Strategic Advisor - Courtney Holt

Strategic Advisor - Yarrow Kraner

Story Advisor - Cal Fussman

Health Advisor - Dr. Jordan Shlain

And special thanks to our creative collaborators, HATCH. Learn more at hatchexperience.org

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