Ep 22 – Naoki’s Story - Choosing Life After the Edge

Author: Helen Valentino
Published: Tue 05 Aug 2025
Episode Link: https://www.inspiredhealing.co.uk/

Keywords: mental health, addiction recovery, ayahuasca, personal development, men’s work, community support, spiritual healing, brotherhood, thriving not surviving, resilience

Summary In this episode of Thriving Not Surviving, host Helen Valentino speaks with Naoki Nayati, a suicide survivor and founder of The Brotherhood, a men's organization focused on healing and personal development. Naoki shares his journey from a troubled childhood marked by loss and addiction to finding purpose through spirituality and community support. He discusses the importance of addressing mental health issues, the role of ayahuasca in his healing process, and the evolution of The Brotherhood as a safe space for men to connect and grow. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, personal accountability, and the ongoing journey of thriving despite challenges.

Takeaways

Naoki's journey reflects the struggles many face with addiction and mental health.
The importance of community support in healing processes.
Ayahuasca can serve as a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing.
Men often face unique challenges in expressing vulnerability and seeking help.
The Brotherhood provides a safe space for men to connect and share their experiences.
Personal development is an ongoing journey, not a destination.
Spirituality can be integrated into everyday life beyond traditional practices.
Healing often requires confronting past traumas and seeking professional help.
Resilience is built through shared experiences and support from others.
Thriving means managing struggles while continuing to grow and evolve.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome & show intro

02:06 Naoki’s origin story

08:07 Marine Corps enlistment

11:09 Injury & identity crisis

14:05 Addiction spirals & rock bottom

19:15 Quest for real healing

26:31 Rehab & the long road to sobriety

34:20 Beyond survival: redefining manhood

40:00 Medicine wheel & shamanic studies

48:00 The sound of Icaros

52:18 Founding The Brotherhood