Trigger Warning: Assault, Abuse, Rape, Mental Health, Trauma

Welcome to Episode 121 - I Survived A Hate Crime with David Keck

One of the few things in life that doesn’t discriminate is trauma. And this week’s episode explores trauma and recovery with David Keck. 

David is the host of the Surviving Podcast, and he bravely shares how he survived a violent gay hate crime. He describes the events of the night that changed his life forever, including the abuse he received, the memory loss, the court case, media, and the impacts off all of this on his mental and physical health. 

David’s story is raw, vulnerable and powerful. It explores notions of masculinity and sexuality; and despite the profound impact this event has had on David’s life, he shares how he regained control with hope and healing (and just a little bit of therapy!). 

Key points

In this episode David shares: 

• How his parents helped him come out as gay
• The interplay between masculinity and sexuality
• The support he had from his family and friends regarding his sexuality
• The night he was physically and sexually abused
• What it was like to have a rape test
• Discovering he was the victim of a gay hate crime
• The court case and media attention
• The impacts on his physical and mental health
• How therapy saved his life
• Regaining control from trauma
• Grounding himself under his favourite tree

Key quotes

“David, if hell is filled with people like you, it can't be that bad of a place”

“A hate crime is if someone picks you out, points you out, targets you based on religion, gender, sexual orientation”

“I'm here right now and running my mouth right now because I refuse to let him win”

Connect with David:

Surviving Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/surviving-podcast/id1572182113
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@david_keck

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surviving_pod/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/survivingabusepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dskeck

YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCAArGtiULHr2cE9c1phqPwg

Connect with Mindful Men

Website at www.mindful-men.com.au

Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindful.men.aus/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-rinne-246207247/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mindful.men.aus

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXBNQmbj4ZQj3rzFAZALTA

***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help***

Stay Mindful, Simon