Before Nick Santonastasso was born, doctors told his parents to institutionalize him or give him away. Thirty years later, he’s on stages around the world, helping people find transformation and breakthroughs of their own.

But Nick says the hardest part of growing up was never himself. “What was more difficult was other people.” His family refused to accept the limits others set for him, and that belief shaped everything that came next.

Nick also opens up about his brother, and how hard it was to love someone who couldn’t help himself. After losing him, Nick wrestled with a painful thought: he could help strangers, but “you couldn’t even help your brother.” Over time, he came to accept that he could only do what he could do, and that he did his best. His brother’s death became one of his biggest drivers, along with a reminder that struggle isn’t always visible.

He credits his brother with the fight in him, the don’t-quit mindset and the work ethic. Nick honors him everywhere he goes, sharing his story with millions.

With host Michael Herbert, Nick reflects on being underestimated from birth, carrying grief with purpose, and why every life, regardless of what it looks like, is valuable.

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This episode is sponsored by Guardian Recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental health challenges, Guardian can help. Visit https://www.guardianrecovery.com or call 888-721-3790 for confidential support and guidance.