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Rich Dunning is the author of Silence Was My First Language, a cinematic-moving memoir about survival growing up in the Bronx enduring childhood trauma, addiction, recovery, and more. From poverty to violence and homelessness, Rich learned that silence could help him survive. But the instinct that protected him as a child followed him into adulthood, shaping his relationships, fatherhood, and struggles with alcohol.
Rich shares how he reached rock bottom at 47, began the long work of sobriety, and turned years of painful memories into his memoir—and a mission to help vulnerable children and young adults through his First Language Foundation.
In this episode, listeners will discover:
- How childhood trauma and silence shaped Rich’s identity and adult life
- The ways alcohol became both an early refuge and a lifelong struggle
- Why recovery, accountability, and rebuilding trust take time
- How writing and sharing his story helped Rich move through shame and connect with others
- The importance of speaking up, seeking support, and setting boundaries
- How the First Language Foundation supports people facing hunger, homelessness, addiction, and abuse
Rich’s story is an honest reminder that the past does not have to define the person we become, and healing does not require a perfect past. It can begin with one honest decision—and the choice to stop abandoning yourself.
Connect, follow, and pick up a copy of Rich’s memoir at richdunningbooks.com and firstlanguagefoundation.org.
In this episode
Hey there! Leave me a voicemail with any feedback or questions! Rich Dunning is the author of Silence Was My First Language , a cinematic-moving memoir about survival growing up in the Bronx enduring childhood trauma, addiction, recovery, and more.
Key questions
Key takeaways
- Silence was a survival mechanism for Rich Dunning during his childhood trauma.
- Alcohol became both an early refuge and a lifelong battle for Rich.
- Recovery and rebuilding trust after addiction require time and accountability.
- Sharing his story allowed Rich to move through shame and connect with others.
- The First Language Foundation supports those facing hunger, homelessness, addiction, and abuse.
What is Rich Dunning's memoir about?
Rich Dunning's memoir 'Silence Was My First Language' is about his survival of childhood trauma, growing up in poverty, battling addiction, and his journey towards recovery and helping others.
How did silence impact Rich Dunning's life?
Silence was a mechanism that helped Rich Dunning survive his childhood trauma, but it also followed him into adulthood, affecting his relationships and struggles with alcohol.
What does Rich Dunning say about the process of recovery from addiction?
Rich Dunning emphasizes that recovery, accountability, and rebuilding trust after addiction take time, underlining the importance of speaking up and seeking support.
How did writing his story benefit Rich Dunning?
Writing and sharing his story helped Rich Dunning move through shame, find his voice, and connect with others who have faced similar struggles.
What is the mission of the First Language Foundation?
The First Language Foundation, started by Rich Dunning, supports people facing hunger, homelessness, addiction, and abuse, aiming to help vulnerable children and young adults.