Today we’d like to introduce you to Cat Hardrick.
Hi Cat, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m originally from Detroit, Michigan the youngest of eight, and who lost both parents by age five. Being raised by loved ones, I learned the meaning of “it takes a village” and making the best out of a bad situation, While my family did the best they could, earning $3.25, if that, as a cook/waitress, there was little to zero money for college. The pathway forward was enlisting into the military like my brothers, cousins, and uncles/dads before me. Not even a year into my active duty, I became a victim of military sexual trauma (MST), which until recent years, the government hadn’t recognized as an epidemic throughout the armed forces.
Sadly, like thousands of other soldiers, both women and men, I suffered in silence for decades; regrettably living a self-destructive life as a result of untreated trauma. Over time, I tried therapy but found it difficult because the doctors would mostly be males. Therefore, I was fearful of being in the room, let alone discuss my trauma. Finally, after a series of therapists, jobs, unhealthy relationships, angry outbursts, and not wanting to be among the living, I shared my truth to a friend who was/is very supportive and encouraged me to seek a licensed professional. Begrudgingly, I went and finally found a team of female therapists who specialize in MST. They were amazing in helping me begin my journey of healing.
While my mental well-being is a daily balancing act, I have found purpose in helping others find their voice and begin their journey of healing. I finally finished my BS from Georgia State University, started a health and wellness-focused business: Journey Within, LLC, cohost a community-focused podcast: Conversations with Karen and Cat, am registered volunteer with Gwinnett County Public Schools as K12 mentor, and a Board Member of two nonprofits. I routinely volunteer and advocate for survivors of human trafficking, the residentially displaced, combating food insecurities, promoting mental health programs and fight for our brave veterans. Additionally, I’m honored to be a candidate for Snellville City Council Post 1 municipal election on November 7, 2023.
Every day, I have to work hard at managing my PTSD; the highs and lows; unhealthy thoughts and anxiety; it is not always doable, But I know if God has brought me through all of this hurt and pain, kept me among the living, then surely God has a divine purpose for my story.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In fact, the VA often replaces therapists, so we vets have to retell our trauma over and over again. Who wants to be retraumatized? There has to be a better way when changing therapists within the VA.
Having said all of that, my biggest and most challenging obstacles were forgiving myself, acknowledge my trauma, seeking help, and not suffer in silence anymore.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
After 20 years, I walked away from the finance industry to free myself from a mentally unhealthy and unfulfilling environment, not knowing what my next move would be. I trusted and accepted God as my source. As an assignment from one of my therapists, I volunteered at the local VA clinic, providing food to veterans in need. It did not go well the first few times. In fact, my anxiety went through the roof. But I began returning, more and more things got better a little at a time. Before you knew it, I became a volunteer team lead. In various therapy group sessions/ coaching classes, the instructor would ask, “What is your purpose or your superpower?” With a side-eye, I ignore them. But today, I can honestly say I’ve found my purpose to first seek to do God’s will, then share my story to inform, inspire, and empower others so they will know they are not alone, resources exist, and healing awaits.
As a servant leader, I specialize in genuinely caring about humanity and the planet. Ironically, my side-eye towards that hogwash superpowers question is somehow answered by the community who knows me for selflessly helping others such that folks say to me, “Who are you saving today?” or “You wearing your cape?” I’m most proud of overcoming being a victim to a victor, rebuilding my relationships, setting boundaries, and acknowledging my past does not define my present or my future. What sets me apart from others is my authenticity, vulnerability, ability to connect to all walks of life, and being unapologetically me- the good and not-so-good.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I recommend to seek out someone who has experience and knowledge on the subject matter or field of interest. Attend networking events specific to your interests and/or go to the SBA Score program to connect with retired professionals who want to be a mentor. Also, join the local Chamber of Commerce as you may have access to a larger group of business leaders to develop relationships. Online resources and printed materials are great resources as well. I enjoy learning from our great thinkers who were before our time and have left a plethora of wisdom for us to grow from via TED Talks or a good book. I also suggest volunteering with organizations and nonprofits as a board member, various duties, etc.; this can help you learn the operational duties and meeting key staff. Also, as a mentee, you should have thought out questions and items you would like to discuss, know what you want to accomplish and gain from each session with your mentor, Do your homework, and be prepared, even if you have no clue, start with why you want a mentor, what do you expect to gain from having a mentor and what do you plan to contribute. It’s a two-way relationship.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.electcat.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/electcatherine?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071295619649&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-hardrick-a57140220
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@conversationswithkarenandcat?si=nmXUGdjnONyK-_EI
