Dr. Bruce Perry: How Childhood Trauma Shapes Your Entire Life

In this episode of We’re Out Of Time, Richard Taite sits down with world-renowned psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Bruce Perry for a powerful conversation about childhood trauma, addiction, healing, and the lifelong impact of early experiences. Dr. Perry, co-author of “What Happened to You?” with Oprah Winfrey and “The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog,” shares how the brain develops in childhood and why our earliest relationships shape the way we think, react, connect, and cope as adults.

Together, Richard and Dr. Perry explore how trauma alters the developing brain, why addiction is often rooted in unresolved pain, and how healing begins with safety, regulation, and human connection. They discuss the growing “relational poverty” in today’s world, the effects of social media and disconnection, and why routines, movement, community, and meaningful relationships are essential for emotional well-being.

Throughout the episode, Richard opens up about his own experiences working in addiction treatment and reflects on the emotional toll of helping people heal. The conversation is raw, insightful, and deeply human, offering a new perspective on trauma, recovery, parenting, mental health, and resilience.