Cole Sprouse: My Narcissistic Mum Sacrificed My Childhood For Fame! | E229

Cole Sprouse is an actor and photographer who has been lighting up our screens and bringing joy to our lives for now twenty years. The star of ‘Riverdale’, 'The Suite Life' and many more beloved TV shows and films, he's been possessed with the spirit of creativity since before he was out of his cradle.
Topics:
00:00 Intro
02:28 Being a child actor
08:53 Your mother
21:09 What is your validation?
25:04 Ads
25:59 Acting career
40:50 Your mental health
45:24 Love & Relationships
57:09 Conversation Cards
01:20:51 Last guest’s question
Cole:
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[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

The conversation cards me and Cole played are dropping here soon: theconversationcards.com

[@S_J_banana]

i already have

[@eldoradorail8891]

Can’t believe you didn’t say ‘I hope nobody’s listening but if you are then please keep this to yourself’!!!!!!

[@JodieLee07]

I'm really hoping for; Lili Reinhart, Raye (UK singer), Russell Brand, Halsey, youtuber 'the offensive tranny'🌟🌟🌟

[@thatcreativebeauty]

Steven For your next guest I want to see LIZZO I would love to hear her story. You have this uncanny way to get people to open up and really get vulnerable ❤❤❤

[@lorigarry6098]

Cole, I love what you said about not taking a child away from their present ness.

[@dreamqueen3331]

"We trade trauma for wisdom". What a perspective to have a share. I love how he is actually an introspective being.

[@tbikes6581]

Yes....... he's amazingly insightful!

[@neltins5308]

I love this podcast so much, one of my favorite ever done on this channel, can't stop coming back to it. Really dives deep into the surviving endurance of human nature & how to turn victim mentality into victor mentality. What the industry did to Jennette, Miley Cyrus, the Sprouse twins and many other child celebrities in the name of money or fame was horrific but some of them ended up becoming happy mature powerful beings anyhow.

[@kj-pn8ll]

I read your comment *exactly* as he said it! That was crazy lmao

[@madisonjones1776]

NO OMG ME TOOOOOO AND I CAME TO SAY THE SAME!!! @@kj-pn8ll

[@leisegovia1171]

this should’ve been the title. “my narcissistic mum sacrificed my childhood for fame” sounds exactly what he’s trying to avoid here which is wearing the victim hood.

[@mimimonster]

He and Jeanette McCurdy should create a support group for adult child actors with abusive mothers - damn, both their stories are nuts. The fact they are secure, functioning adults is a miracle.

[@Very.Valentine]

Christy Carlson Romano (Kim possible) is actually starting this! She talks shout this a lot with other child actors on her podcast.

[@jordan4543]

@@Very.Valentine what's her podcast called ?

[@Mrsjessw320]

@@jordan4543 vulnerable

[@carynmartin6053]

Absolutely!🎉

[@littlemiller714]

As a mother entertainment careers and fame is probably the last thing I actually want for my children especially as kids. If my children really wanted to chase that then sure I'd support them but I would be guarding their time and against the pressure like a mama bear. Parents that push kids so hard in anything and make them work like grown ass adults are not putting the kids needs first. I don't care if it's acting, singing, sports, social media, whatever.

[@jgh6101]

"I think gratefulness and un​gratefulness can exist simultaneously". This is so spot on to the times we know something is bad about our lives yet we feel guilty for even thinking that way.

[@katherinebenitez7401]

LOTS of celebrities say a lot of words, but don’t really say anything meaningful. Cole is so open, honest and it’s refreshing!

[@lyricgirl2012]

because he has strength and a purpose to not let it destroy him but on the inside he is screaming. he just has learned how other disney stars are losing their minds and he chose not to lose his.

[@boris2835]

loved this podcast such a big fan.... for YEARS can't wait to see more of you... big fan from Paris ( you should have a podcast where u interview other child start ) you're amazing @@ColeSprouse-kw7qz

[@CrashBandiscoot]

I didn’t realize this until he said it but he’s 30, lol. Stop seeing him as Big Daddy age and realize he’s a full adult. He speaks eloquently and if people are attacking him for that then they probably just don’t understand what he’s saying 😂

[@rachelvg84]

And he went to college, he's a smart kid!

[@MollyMA13]

I’ve seen so many people almost mad at him for trying to “sound smart” but I honestly think that just comes from people being so used to hearing celebrities being so watered down. They’re shocked to hear someone his age use bigger words than slang.

[@MollyMA13]

@@himenyx153 very true!

[@calumnoah9412]

He's 30

[@chaseonfroy]

@@calumnoah9412 exactly

[@MollyMA13]

@@calumnoah9412 Are you trying to say that that should be expected for his age? Because I know plenty of people here on Beyonce's internet over the age of 30 that do not even know the difference between their/they're/there or your/you're. lol

[@calumnoah9412]

@@MollyMA13 you said someone his age like he is a 15 y/o with a nice vocabulary. He sure talks way more articulate and has a deeper vocabulary than the average people or average celeb but i mean if we are being impressed by a 30 y/o that can speak good its a problem

[@puzzleeeeee]

“You trade trauma for wisdom… it deepens your eyes” ❤❤❤

[@daisyo.6666]

That's all nice and well, but not every trauma is overcomeable. Not every pain turns to wisdom. At least not completely. Most just keep digging until there's nothing left.

[@benegmond6584]

@@daisyo.6666 If you can't be happy with every animal you see, every tree, and every bird you hear sing, then you haven't suffered enough to know how good it is to not suffer.

[@bernardjenkin4077]

@@daisyo.6666 it is, you just let trauma beat you instead of build you and that’s where you messed up

[@Glamours328]

Love this quote

[@Shnayblay]

@@benegmond6584 That only really applies to a curable mental health issue like depression and not a full blown mental illness like a personality disorder tbh.

[@Leo-to1yv]

Cole’s awareness and incredible ability to articulate his experience is really something. All the best to him 🙏

[@mariamaria2751]

This dude is smart as shit , and surprisingly down to earth .. so smart

[@ImAlicjaFrank]

The whole "trauma made me a better person" is something we are made to believe is true. To some extent it is, but the trauma also gave you scars that will never heal and will always affect you in one way or another. I'm not grateful for my childhood traumas, I wouldn't have been a worse person without it.

[@jocelynneville8504]

My childhood was spent being constantly beaten by my alcoholic father. My parents lack of parenting led to me being repeatedly sexually abused young. I lived on my own and worked full time by 16, so I wasn't able to finish school because I had to support myself. I ended up being with a man who consistently beat and raped me because it was all I knew. My trauma 100% made me better. Absolutely. I learned through adversity and came out stronger. And honestly, people I know who have had difficult lives are usually way better people than those who had a sheltered life. I don't feel bad for myself. I'm not angry or resentful at anyone. I am who I am because of my life experience. That doesn't make the actions of others okay.. but spending my life feeling bad for myself isn't going to make anything better. Once I started looking for reasons to be grateful and started focusing on showing love to others (and this was WHILE I was stuck with my ex because of lupus) I just started getting better and better. That's how I built up the strength to leave. And now I have peace and stability for the first time in my life and couldn't be happier. People who have had privileged lives could have everything and still be miserable. I have a simple life as a housewife (because I have lupus) and could not be happier. I am so grateful just to have peace and stability and not be struggling to survive.

[@lycanlube7484]

i think it can go both ways, you can have a tough upbringing and come out stronger and wiser and learn from others mistakes or you can become the product of that situation and spread it around. People who tend to never have any really issues or have it really easy tend to not be as strong and cant deal with hard things as well because they've never had to experience it so they never had to develop the tools to deal with it. Good example of these people are people that get offended over every single little stupid thing which arent actual problems.

[@linaulnes7498]

No. Its you can make use it to make you better or you can not. Its not a given.

[@BabyBatpup]

as sad as it is to say, trauma only makes someone a better person if they're strong enough to make it out and want healing. so many people unfortunately go the other way, yes, but so many others, including myself, have come out the other end better people. I don't have as much childhood trauma as many, but what I did experience left me with BPD and mega abandonment issues. the rest of mine comes from a 10 year abusive relationship with a narcissist, and I came out the other end so much better of a person than I did going in, despite being left with these scars. I'm in no way grateful for my traumas either, but I am grateful that I was able to pull through and learn from what happened to me.

[@queenj.8i895]

It’s not something we are made to believe, it’s something many people like myself come to realize over time. It may not be true for all, but it’s true for many. God bless 🙏🏽

[@masilomoshesh1475]

I do not think anyone will break your heart more than a member of your family. Edit: I am very thankful for the likes and also very thankful to everyone for sharing and continuing to share their experiences❤

[@AvecPoesie]

Particularly, a narcissistic member of one's family. 🥀

[@beelarehman5992]

​@@AvecPoesie death by a thousand cuts

[@ReviewBoard-uy5nv]

Yes. Your words resonate with my life completely

[@IsThisThePrizeIveWaitedFor]

Yep, it cuts the deepest when the people you’re supposed to be able to trust betray you. Gives you trust issues for life.

[@ezekiel5687]

Especially if it's your mom.

[@skurland]

So nice to see a 30 year old as intelligent, in touch with himself, and thoughtful about life as Cole. Couldn’t be more honest and down to earth for someone in showbiz.

[@penultimania4295]

Has nothing to do with age.

[@stardustgirl2904]

Most 16 year olds from the 15th century, are more intelligent in published diaries then some people today! Society has really gone down as a whole! So it's nice to see someone that's intelligent!

[@abigailgenevieve6323]

It has absolutely nothing to do with age. Most people never receive the gift of enlightenment. Most live their entire life, going through the motions and never wake up.

[@helena1373]

Yes. I agree

[@stardustgirl2904]

@@abigailgenevieve6323 With age dosen't always bring about wisdom.But true wisdom comes from God, and without God, you can only become book 📚 smart! The creator of the Universe and the world 🌎 knows, way more than mankind;

[@rachelnelson3923]

He sounds like someone who has spent a lot of time talking to a therapist. So much so he would probably be a good counselor for people who have been through what he’s been through.

[@Kbinger06]

He probably doesn't want to probably want's to live the rest of his Free life w/out the Exhaustion. He has his own things he worked through and even still is thinkin' over now.

[@RavishingSeas]

20 minutes in, and as a kid, I loved this guy. Cute, funny. Seeing him again as his authentic self, I love him even more. He’s so intelligent, and I’m amazed by his ability to articulate his thoughts and perspective. “We trade trauma for wisdom”, yes, but there are also those that just sit and dwell in it. I’m proud of the man he is today. Amazing

[@ccmignone5039]

😊

[@fredahwiwu5219]

I love that we are talking about how mothers can be toxic and narcissistic...it takes courage to talk about this

[@Jabba-le-feminist-hating-Hutt]

Lol cause everyone will gaslight you and call you a liar “She cares about you”

[@d2h655]

It's literally commonplace imo. It's always mothers or women in general that are "crazy"

[@earthroamer3832]

Females are narcissistic by nature

[@Jabba-le-feminist-hating-Hutt]

@@dmt3412 lol but dads always get the blame, people accept that, but with mothers it’s never the case

[@Amused_Comfort_Inc]

@@Jabba-le-feminist-hating-Hutt everyone, always, never.. Those are called, absolutes. Your mental health is showing lol

[@chloeelizabeth2174]

How an famous actor being real gets so much hate is mind baffling. Personally I think we need more of this.

[@eminemilly]

I don't see the hate yet but they're probably jealous and think money should solve all coles problems

[@callmegale]

​@@eminemillythe hate is not really because of jealousy. cole is hated because he's perceived as narcissistic and controlling because of how he treated his ex, lili reinhart. Irdk what went down between them but I just saw people commenting about them on twitter. apparently, he had interviews or conversations with her indicating his controlling and narcissistic behavior.

[@Sara-dp5dg]

@@eminemilly nah people don't like him because he comes off as a fake intellectual. and his tumblr "social experiment" left a bad taste in people's mouths. Plus they way he treated his ex at that time and the way he treated Lili Reinhart. But even so i do have sympathy for him cause having that kind of childhood can mess anyone up and emotionally stunt them

[@gradientcube]

@@Sara-dp5dg I think you and most people need to just stop trying to inject yourselves into people's lives. it's unhealthy and weird. parasocial behavior is a cancer.

[@Incityandinforest]

⁠@@Sara-dp5dg what was the Tumblr experiment about? I never heard about it

[@uchiha2173]

I love his non-victim mentality because a lot of people hold on to their pain and never truly move on to prosper and learn from that trauma . Like he said trauma = wisdom

[@jennjc800]

Unfortunately, a lot of people never complete the equation and just dwell, their entire lives, in the trauma.

[@Feminazi1dc]

@@jennjc800y’all are gross for this tbh. You seriously have no compassion for someone who clearly went through something so terrible they couldn’t recover? It isn’t our fucking fault what our brains can’t handle! P.a. An autistic person I’m sick of hearing shit like this lmfao

[@Sytmor]

@@jennjc800 I feel like you both are villainizing people who experience trauma and either don't have the resources to process it or don't have the ability to "bounce back".

[@jennjc800]

@@Sytmor and that is ok. You are welcome to "feel" whatever it is you feel. I am more of an action person. Dwelling in misery is not the way I choose to live. We live in the age of technology. Anyone who wants to better themselves, has access in more ways than were available in the past. 🤷🏽 What is the point of experiencing the good and bad of life, if no one gains any wisdom from life's lessons?

[@Sytmor]

@@jennjc800 you seem to have an incredibly privileged opinion and outlook. I’m glad you have resources available to you but not everyone does. Some depression can’t be cured by just “going for a walk” or watching a “motivational speech”. I hope you continue to flourish and learn compassion and empathy.

[@vampzombiewitch]

I’m 3 years younger than Cole & Dylan. I literally grew up with them, watching them on Disney. Loving every show & movie they did. It’s so refreshing to see how humble cole is & he really opened my eyes to a lot during this interview 🖤🫶🏼

[@MsElke11]

"I will never be a victim! What happened in my youth carved me into what I am today....for better!!" That line alone makes me admire this intelligent young man!!

[@styepen602]

These days celebrities with estranged lives or family either whine about being a victim (COUGH) Meghan Markle (COUGH) or they use their trauma to become a better person and lead a better life, Jeanette McCurdy’s another one, her book’s sad and yet sometimes your laughing with her on the bizarreness of it, not someone who wants to play the victim game at all.

[@tofunwatoyinbo]

He's 30...

[@marissa._]

@@styepen602 So someone talking about their trauma is them "whining"? No wonder suicide happens at a high rate! Victimizing victims doesn't help! And someone saying they "don't like" to be a victim, doesn't eliminate the FACT that they're STILL and *always will be* a victim! 🙄

[@styepen602]

@@marissa._ Did you ever think that some of those suicides were people whose mental health issues were ignored because of these pretentious people who whine? I’m very lucky not to know anyone personally who took their own life but I know several people who have had severe depression who were probably dismissed as soft and weak themselves, but all these people came out stronger, braver and happier, maybe more than I’ll ever be, some can’t and it’s sad they can’t, but I cannot stand anyone using mental illness as an excuse or some other crap, it discourages people to speak up or get more help.

[@felishacooper7634]

Well it sounds like you’re a bit arrogant to have such a STRONG distaste for people’s suffering or trauma when you’ve stated you know NO one who has committed the act. I have. So you would be the privileged one, condemning others. You’re being insulting. You’re quite disgruntled because of the word “celebrity”. They’re not super human. And lastly, what is your beef, like a lot of people, with Meghan Markle. Y’all don’t know that girl! Or Prince Harry. You’re not moved by their story, point your view elsewhere. Your nastiness is not necessary. Come on, man. Be better in life.

[@something1529]

"We trade trauma for wisdom," Cole is such an inspiration! He was sold out by his own mom, and not until much later as an adult do you realize your parents did not have the best intentions for you. As a girl, my situation was a little different but my mom was jealous of me growing up. I didn't understand at the time, until I was 23 and a friend pointed it out to me. My mom would insult me and degrade me growing up making me feel inherently "bad." I always knew she was off, but as children you can't help but internalize their opinions of you.

[@msfranny4357]

WELL SAID

[@GMarieBehindTheMask]

Same

[@persona5305]

How are you now? if you don't mind me asking because it's not very easy to grow maturely with such parents.

[@beanmoo]

Moms like this are so weird, I had a wonderful mom who died when I was fresh outta high school so this always boggles my mind , I have the classic old mean drunk dad. But the fact that there are moms who actually get jealous of their daughters like looks etc but also in extreme cases issues w the step dad too. Makes me feel ill.

[@melinashaw971]

this is the kind of stuff that should be taught in school rather than advanced calculus in my opinion.

[@rosanna_miranda]

I loved Cole's point when he said that you cannot control the enviornment even if you put everything in place, it might not go the exact way you want it to because it takes 2 people to dance. Then you need to accept that, blood or not. It's beyond insightful! He is great. I love hearing more of Cole's life. Thank you for having him on. Because of this clip, I have subscribed!!!

[@ColeSprouse-kw7qz]

Thanks for your love,care and support I’m pleased to hear from you Where are you watching from? 0:02

[@mp7140]

He is so self-aware. The way he talks about acting and privilege, I totally get it. The fact that those who aren't privileged sometimes have to take on non-artistic roles is so relatable. I really enjoyed this conversation.

[@sravyachila3855]

“Grounding yourself in the present is the greatest enemy of anxiety” Wow I felt this in my soul. Thank you Cole!

[@lavernebell6274]

I just started watching this episode but I had to thank you for your comment. I have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and anxiety and depression have been around fir as long as I can re. I'll now see that being grounded is the enemy and I'm not going to let it win.

[@coryr7183]

the presnt can cause anxiety anyway um i hav a simliar mom but shes not interested in the biz i kinda am to but its intersting to hear his thuoghts, i just started watching the video ps i was on te news today speaking of media and it may be an in into he indsuty it was about costs of ambulance services

[@ekaonyoutube]

Loved this!

[@julieete257]

Agree

[@KeshiaTimbang]

Fuckn unfair

[@Mrsuserdawn]

My son wanted to act, took lessons, did a little modeling all, and got an agent in Hollywood all before 8 years old. He was running the show, he wanted to be famous. We indulged our son. He loved it, my husband and I did not like anything about being in those environments, so we dumped the agent and he was allowed to participate in local theatre productions. He actually grew to love that and developed a great group of friends who all acted, learned backstage work, and set design as well. He’s so articulate, theatre was a gift! Now he’d like to be a clinical psychologist when he starts college next year. My husband and I felt our son in danger when we were in Los Angeles because strangers wanted time alone with our gem. It is so tragic when a child’s greatest defender has turned a blind eye to their innate responsibility! I understand, I was raised by narcissistic mother, and I am no victim either! Stay positive, you’re awesome! God bless you kiddo!

[@lolaispure4296]

Nice. You did a great job as parents.❤

[@aelh123]

I couldn’t agree with you more ! 👏🏻 props to you 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@jetrifle4209]

Lmao sure

[@cozyfloret]

thank you for doing what so many parents didnt.

[@angelalynn1979]

Thank you so much for giving some much needed balance to how I see actors parents.

[@debgoodman5306]

Cole you are so profound!! I'm a 64 y/o and you have taught me so much in an hour. you have a gift. I am grateful to you and this pod cast.. BTW "The Diary Of A CEO" Pls add your name to the title. You are of value and need to be recognized Love and hugs to you both

[@KaGeeSandamukal]

He is so well-spoken and a great story-teller in very many ways.

[@unzii]

Living with a parent who's extremely narcissistic is so tiring and difficult, it constantly feels like you're being held back and never "free enough" to make your own decisions without feeling guilt or even anxiety

[@latenitetubing]

Accurate. Also..the deep shame when they do manage to hold you back or thwart your success. Panicking, in a trap you can’t see or touch, you question what’s wrong with YOU.

[@RocketRoketto]

​@@latenitetubing being an adult with a dead narc mom and trying new things/allowing myself to do something that I know as a teen would of cause an argument or chastising and then doing that thing as an adult and still fearing that even if though she can't hold you back anymore is wild.

[@nataliaspamer9745]

you said it perfectly in such short words.

[@unzii]

@@latenitetubing Absolutely, i always try to fight those feelings off, especially the shame is such an awful feeling. The amount of times i couldn't fully enjoy a decision i made because i knew my dad was absolutely against it or made me feel dumb/stupid/untrustworthy for it. I always crawl back because i long for that approval and trust, but it always ends the same way, manipulation, control and over-all they never care about you, but only the consequences that could affect them.

[@unzii]

@@RocketRoketto this really hits me, because although they're not there anymore, they somehow still have a certain control over your mind. That's what they want. I wish you all the best, although it'll take some time, step by step you'll take back control and feel comfortable with the things and decisions you choose to do

[@ivyluray723]

Cole is immensely self-aware! It was a breath of fresh air listening to him talk about his family struggles because it’s beyond relatable, it’s pure truth. I needed that, a lot of people needed that!

[@tykeboy16]

lol no he isn't. dude is 10 feet up his own ass

[@nikkiexo7807]

YESSS preach it to the choir because i second that👏🏼

[@yukikittyy3522]

There are a lot of people all around the world that are very self aware, its just those often get snuffed out.

[@carolynkraft5675]

Cole is an authentic soul who will bring much depth to a character he decides to portray. Nothing more satisfying than listening to someone in his shoes who speaks from a place of humility. Good for him!!!

[@Goodhello369]

It may be truth. Or some of it might be a distortion. Specifically regarding his mother. He resents her for spending the money. Which is a fair point but he may have taken it too far by slandering her publicly.

[@LanaiJ-dj3er]

Very refreshing to see someone talk about struggles so candidly.

[@katherinewilson6817]

I could listen to this episode for hours and hours on end. What a phenomenal job you did with poking but not prodding. I feel that you allowed him the space and environment to be fully himself and share his thoughts. This was so raw, real, touching and honest. I really appreciate that. Thank you Cole for allowing us a glimpse into your childhood and your life and for sharing the evolution of you with the internet. I feel that many people will benefit greatly from these two mens’ perspectives. Steven is so compassionate and authentic, as well as Cole.

[@yangchuyou2356]

I remember when Dylan and Cole ended Suite Life, I was a massive fan and knew that they were not close to their mother, they were close to their dad and were excelling academically. After Suite Life they immediately went to NYU to study and were inactive for 5 years until they returned to the industry. I wondered why would they leave at one of their primes but now I understand, they didn't have a choice to choose a career, what they like or have a normal school experience. They needed to go so they can find their path and purpose again.

[@alethiamillner5603]

I met him. I live in Manhattan. He was coming out of his dorm. Very sweet, we took a pic together and played the guess which twin I am game.I lost. Lol

[@NallahBrown]

@@alethiamillner5603 LOL, I love that you lost 😂😂😅 . . How fun

[@AKredhed]

@@alethiamillner5603 I just sent my husband to Manhattan to surprise our friend from hLondon. Do you have any recommendations as far as entertainment or cuisine l go?

[@carolynturk-hu7je]

​@@alethiamillner5603 How lovely that you had that experience. Child actors have had a hard road through the generations(think of Drew Barrymore, Brooke Shields). Thank you for sharing!

[@buuurrrrppppp221]

It seems to be the modern way that everyone wants to be famous but I personally can't think of anything worse! I imagine a lot of the family channels etc on KZbin and just parents over sharing their children's life on social media will face a backlash in years to come. It might make them financially better off but what about privacy and these kid's choice of what they share with the world?

[@sunrisecenter4586]

“If you can still consistently choose to care, choose to love, that speaks a lot about you.” It does. He is a rare human being

[@chinwenduchinwe586]

I agree.

[@do-uc6xj]

I was wondering if he meant to care for and love the narcissist. I hope it was to still have that capacity in general, rather than become an abusive person. Because if you keep caring for the narcissist, you keep getting harmed.

[@jeannedudekemdacoz]

This speaks volumes about the illusion of familiarity we have with celebrities, here we discover him in an entire different way than in ordinary life. He’s so articulate and human, introspective and as existential as any other person. Love this interview ❤ thank you ❤❤❤❤

[@xolustcapone]

I watched this entire interview without even a thought of turning it off. In this day in age I find myself really struggling to do so with all the simultaneous stimuli out there. This video was an hour or so long and it went by in what felt like 15 minutes. I really connected with Cole on a deep, meaningful, and philosophical level, as well as Steven's empathic presence. I would say great work guys, but this didn't feel like work at all. Love and light to both of you.

[@m0nkeycake691]

Holy shit! I am a 46 year old man who has wasted his life trying to reconcile a toxic relationship with a narcissistic mother and a defeated father. Sadly I have to admit I have become a victim of my circumstances. I have had a total loss of purpose after my Dad passed in 2021. And here I am learning so much from the kid from Big Daddy. Didn't really know who he was but will watch his career with interest. What a smart, articulate young man.

[@freyaparmenter224]

Woah your story is so similar to mine.

[@Kbrjp-kx8sl]

You are not alone. Let's try to stay strong even though it sounds hards.

[@clarifyingquestions]

Did your father not provide, protect and parent or did this grown ass man run and leave his child to fend for himself where a grown man could not.

[@m0nkeycake691]

@@Kbrjp-kx8sl thank you kind internet stranger!

[@m0nkeycake691]

@@clarifyingquestions He f-ed up his savings and $$ in his middle age. Later was beaten down (emotionally & physically) by his wife. Was brutally beaten 4 days before he passed at age 86. I am the unclaimed, unloved child who gave everything to make this into a family...after the world out there broke my faith, my heart a few too many times. I have desperately seeked a family only to realise I only have the toxic one I was born into.

[@sarahkeller4360]

I’m 31. I swear, once I turned 30 I was just like this is me. I’m not having relationships that are shallow. I want people around me that I can fully be myself and not feel like I have to walk on eggshells. I’m very happy with the people I have in my life.

[@samdp42]

There is this myth that women stop being relevant around their 30s. I used to think media pushed us out, but I think those of us in our 30s are just sick of being women and finally want to be people.

[@millennialodyssey5956]

Same here! But it took a lot of counseling and healing on my end to get there. I don't live in a victim mentality but i was a victim. And now i can choose who i want in my life by understanding i didn't deserve what happened to me as a child and I don't want toxic relationships as an adult.

[@jocelynkreiser]

@@millennialodyssey5956 same here. i carried a lot of guilt and sadness for the broken relationship i have with my father. but in working through my trauma (and recognizing it for what it really was, abuse and trauma!) i was able to shed a lot of that and set boundaries with a person who does not want to do the work, acknowledge his mistakes, or take accountability for his behavior. i still struggle at times, but you can’t force them to love you, you can’t force them to treat you with respect, you can’t force them to change. and i can no longer continue to expend energy into or bend over backwards for relationships that are toxic, one-sided, not reciprocal. blood or not. fuck that. i turned 31 last month, and though i am still working to heal my inner child, i am grateful for the growth and change in perspective and lessons learned over the past decade. here’s to us, and our resilience and strength 🥂

[@MK-es2je]

GOOD FOR YOU. THAT IS HOW OUR LIVES SHOULD BE.

[@debsday5445]

Well said 😊

[@kylaschafer7400]

I cannot believe how wise he is and his authenticity is definitely there . He is most definitely a good dude from seeing this video .

[@angelriddle8184]

This has to be the best podcast I’ve ever listened to. To be able to learn about who someone really is and have the space for appreciation of it is amazing.

[@Digit1st]

“You trade trauma for wisdom.” Such a great episode. 🙏🏻😎

[@gemrawnsley]

I loved that part too. I literally nodded when he said it 😂😊

[@Digit1st]

@@gemrawnsley haha, me too. ☺️

[@sunshinesunshine105]

That really resonated with me. I damn near cried when he said that.

[@alertclerk]

I love his grounding technique where he takes a break, even in the middle of a conversation, and checks his five senses so he can be more in the present and not let anxiety take over. Wise young man!

[@ktoth29]

mentally ill young man

[@Kyra-fe6do]

How do you check your five senses for anxiety?

[@Kyra-fe6do]

Oh I just got to that point of the interview! Lol

[@misscrackwood]

I teach that to my 8yo when her emotions are too much and she feels she's loosing control. Works like a charm, she grounds instantly!

[@undacuvabrotha]

whats the time stamp on this?

[@rayak7071]

Wow. I love this guy even more now. Much more! He’s not just a pretty face but a deep thinking, self aware, awesome human. I have a narcissistic mother as well and I’ve done a lot of self work too, and a lot of his perspective resonated with me so much. 🖤

[@makalahpinkard5023]

I truly cant express how a part; small or large, of which I am unsure of yet, has changed after listening to this conversation. I relate to Cole, having a very narcissistic mother who was very selfish. I was thrown into being basically a mother to my younger brothers at 4 1/2, and being physically, emotionally, and mentally abused by all of the adults in my life. A childhood riddled with addiction being so evident in front of my eyes. I have struggled more than I can even have words for, but this.... This brought me solace. And it brought me light. Because I wouldn't change my trauma for the exact reason Cole shared. It is my strength and it is my wisdom. And despite my struggles I am beyond compassionate, loving, and empathetic and I have overcome my cycle of abuse and ended it for my son. Truly a beautiful episode, and the first one I've heard. I thank you both. So much love sent your way from a very unknown human, whom your words were beyond profound to.

[@nataliesoutlet]

Fascinating conversation. Love how articulate he is WOW. I just wanted to add hearing his speak about his mother with so much love and sadness was so endearing and equally I could feel his sadness. Loved the raw convo Steven! 👏🏽

[@emillyyelen5169]

@@elainejohnson796 These younger generations only see whats on the outside but when you talk about strong character and morality they got nothing smart to say...

[@silverkitty2503]

that is what happens when you reflect the language just comes

[@stoplayin21]

Very articulate

[@Nobody-bq7pl]

He went to college.

[@nataliesoutlet]

Also Steven, I’m buying that card game! So good!

[@kaleydeweese7413]

Idk why people have such a problem with Cole being articulate. Stop being a hater to everybody who uses big words lol, some people are just like that! He is an intelligent man, and quite self aware. I appreciate the fact that he rejects his “victim” status and embraces accountability. I heard this quote today: “so what, you have a past- so do I.” Our pasts must be fuel for our fire, not reasons to hold ourselves back. Good episode, subscribing now.

[@threadhoney9445]

I don’t see anyone hating on that ? What are you talking about ?

[@kaleydeweese7413]

@@threadhoney9445 there are whole videos popping up now. Look up “Cole Sprouse Keeps Going On Podcasts”

[@noneyourbusiness341]

@@threadhoney9445 they aren’t necessarily talking about this comment section.

[@randomcole619]

You’re right, some people are just that way. I’d get told by classmates that I was making up words and adult co workers would ask what a word I said meant, we need to go use on teaching language and the meaning of words, they are used to control us and literacy rates are dropping fast…

[@mirmitfluffy3760]

@@threadhoney9445he’s getting a ton of hate on his potcast call her daddy.

[@melissagraham6180]

Super impressed by his emotional intelligence and the acknowledgement of the role of life traumas. Some people never gain this level of perspective. Wise beyond his years.

[@colinriddell3776]

Watching this podcast for the first time and can honestly say that I'm so glad I stumbled across it... the relatability, opinions and outlooks expressed by Cole mirror some of mynown personal views and particularly sparked a point when he says "the people who like conversation will somehow just appear" or words to that effect... the chill vibe... the honesty and the nature of this podcast is exactly what I needed to reflect on myself and some of the things I'm going through currently.... thank you

[@asusi1507]

This man has had plenty of therapy, he has his head on straight and is very articulate.

[@SAINTxSZN]

Therapy does nothing

[@umarchowdhury7752]

How do you know that?

[@anniemunson3675]

@@SAINTxSZN you forgot to add “therapy doesn’t work”….FOR YOU. Words matter.

[@rainbowinthedark453]

@@SAINTxSZNThat’s a very gross generalization of a broad medical field. Plus it simply is not factual. I think the op is someone whose had therapy, especially bringing up Oprah overcoming pain in her childhood, the fact he openly talks about his toxic upbringing and triumphing in spite. There’s no way she could know for sure but the podcast interview implied he worked thru trauma with therapy of some sort. There are bad therapists for sure and that’s why you find one that fit with you. Cognitive and behavioral therapy works and it’s been studied as well as documented in many medical journals.

[@baileyrobbins50]

@@SAINTxSZNguess you don’t go to therapy nor listen to your therapist if you have one

[@briannacollins1442]

I almost cried when they showed the picture of him as a child and him saying “I’d probably talk to him about hippos or platypus or something” very sad loss of childhood

[@MaddieBullock]

I don’t know why I’m shocked by this with Cole and Dylan, but I am and I hate it. They were (along with Miley Cyrus and Jennette McCurdy and others) I loved acting (theatre) as a kid, but when I wanted to stop I was able to and now I’m more interested in acting for film. I enjoy expressing myself, but I can’t imagine being forced into it and wanting to quit and not being able to.

[@davidfairweather3301]

@@MaddieBullockI think it’s quite a tricky situation. Macauley Culkin spoke about it and said he still felt incredibly lucky. Only in the sense that because of what he got out of everything he had to endure. He was able to essentially retire at 14 and take jobs and do hobbies as they come, and not have to chase acting job after acting job. I imagine it’s similar to Cole and Dylan. The stuff they went through afforded them the luxury of being able to take up different opportunities and explore new avenues that might not have been available to them without having to do what they did. That being said, it doesn’t invalidate the surreal experience of being a famous child and essentially having your childhood taken away. There’s so many things you lose out on, and trying to relate to every day people can’t be easy, in addition to dealing with the trauma of having your entire image and personal life exposed to the world at such a young age which you can never take back.

[@DalvinMungwari]

Very refreshing to see man growth, therapy, doing the self work, you can see it man i Think we should all strive to get to this level of self awareness as humanity!!

[@toroallin5734]

I think Cole should write a book. I don’t know about what… but I just want to hear what he has to say about things. I love the way he speaks. It sounds so eloquent and makes me feel things I don’t fully understand. So many amazing things to think about. - Gratefulness and ungratefulness -Stability of youth - trauma and emotional awareness Literally someone get this man a book deal!

[@sharelletaylor7619]

As a kid I remember watching the twins on Zac and Cody and imagining how amazing their lives must be and how rich they must be from acting. In reality a lot of people from Disney have had a hard time.

[@Jess-yp9fo]

Same. I used to be obsessed with them when i was a kid! Dylan was ultimate fav. I still remember reading that his favorite color was Orange in a magazine. Watching all their childhood movies, going on their website/youtube vids etc. Always found it interesting how Cole was more like Zack and Dylan more like Cody instead of how they're portrayed on the show. I also remember seeing photoshoots with their mom involved and thinking 'how supportive amazing of a mom she is!' Smh

[@janderson947]

@@Jess-yp9fo ikr I guess it's a Disney thing because with tia and tamera they switched personalities tia was more like tamera in real life and tamera was a bit more like tia but respect to Cole speaking out about his experience

[@kimdastorytellr]

@@janderson947 its a twin, acting trick they have them do. Basically play each other, Dylan & Cole did it too on Suite Life.

[@jddSton]

Disney messes with their heads. I mean so many of them are messed up or have had trauma. I know for me I could connect with the delayed trauma and how it feels to be free.

[@Jess-yp9fo]

@@jddSton I dont think it's solely Disney tbh. Many kids who were on Disney didn't turn out like Miley Cyrus (oop) her co-star Emily Osment turned out well. The kids from Phil of the future, Ant Farm, Sonny with a chance etc...Many are ok. I think everyone goes through some trauma in life Disney aside

[@KiwiGran1]

I'm 71 and have never heard of Cole before but I can see that he's an incredibly wise young man. I'll be looking out for his movies in future.

[@R.W.S.]

I recommend Five Feet Apart. It's a bit of a tear-jerker, but it's a solid film with some great performances.

[@milokaz2753]

I am 40 and I think exactly the same 🙂

[@ebbyc1817]

There is NO way you ve never seen Cole Sprouse. He was Ross' son in Friends! 🙂😊 He was blonde back then.

[@elizethompson8627]

@@ebbyc1817 from RSA don't know them either

[@createwithbarbbl4125]

I'm in my 70's too and I had not heard of this young man or his twin brother. It's really lovely to listen to this articulate young man and his experiences. Narcissism, what can I say, ruins so many lives. I'm a survivor myself so I have some knowledge.

[@livvykitty8897]

I appreciate all of these former child stars coming out and freeing themselves with the truth I know it’s like a weight lifted of them I’m sure 🙏🏽❤️

[@SuperAnastasiaMarie]

Love what he says about living in perpetual pain and how we triumph from that pain. I never thought there was anyone that thought the same way about personal trauma as I do. So glad I came across this interview.

[@MrsUzumaki]

As soon as he mentioned that he was raised by a narcissist, I knew there was going to be more wisdom in his words. You tend to develop emotional maturity faster than your peers when you deal with an upbringing of self-involved parents and gain self-awareness quickly once you start questioning how you were raised. Also, '92 baby here too ✌

[@Diana_222]

So true

[@MrsUzumaki]

@harmonyღhamgaming Of course emotionally intelligent parents are capable of raising emotionally mature kids. It only seems like they’re more mature simply because they get there faster than those who weren’t raised like that, because the experience we go through stunts our growth. However, what we lack in quick turnarounds, we make up for mindfulness and vigilance. Because we are able to detect certain behaviours in someone quicker than those who haven’t dealt with as such, we have the experience to approach the situation more consciously. Adding on, those of us who went through abuse are able to turn to information quicker now that we have access to education in our own pockets. We’re much more likely to fall down a rabbit hole of research and learn, hence why “tend” to be more emotionally intelligent. Although I will retract “faster” and place “better” instead. I know those who did have healthy parents and one thing I noticed is they didn’t have as much self-awareness. So that’s food for thought.

[@QueenTrini94]

Very very true I'm experiencing this as we speak an I'm born in 94

[@loveinthematrix]

@harmonyღhamgaming Well yes that’s true, a lot of people raised by narcissists become narcissists and even intelligence and wisdom is feigned to feed their need for validation. I think because Cole is open to talking about it and putting a label on it, he has broken free from the cycle in a positive way - but he also seems pretty depressed and has used intellection to cover a probably deep well of sadness, emptiness and inability to access the depth of love and emotion. He doesn’t give me the sense that he’s an empath. He seems smart though. I don’t even know what I’m saying or the relevance to your comment at this point lol my bad

[@Ati422]

"we trade trauma for wisdom".. so true, thank you, Cole!

[@ivanazdravkova]

This sentence is so empowering! Cos most of us achnowledge that we've been traumatised, but feel trapped in that knowledge, constantly revisiting, or reliving that pain, but to think of it as wisdom, and a triomf over it and through it in life, is a positive outlook and empowering outlook!

[@LisaShin-Lee]

I'm glad I listened to the whole podcast. He's smart, wise, empathetic, so much more.

[@ColeSprouse-kw7qz]

Thanks for your love,care and support I’m pleased to hear from you Where are you watching from?

[@dreens6333]

He is incredibly insightful and articulates his thoughts, ideas, and opinions so concisely.

[@minadady9950]

I had a HUGE crush on these boys in childhood, like many girls from my generation did. But, just like Jennette McCurdy's openness about her Hollywood experience, this interview made me really feel deeply for these young people who experienced trauma and hardship in a way we never saw through the screen. As a childhood trauma survivor myself, these kinds of interviews resonate and open me up to my own healing because I'm not alone. The people I used look up to so fondly were just as hurt, if not more so than myself.

[@MrCrowebobby]

I've got a huge crush on them now at 86.

[@emmamessydreamer7]

Beautifully said 👏

[@AnyaB18]

Cole’s answer to “what would you say to your younger self” was truly beautiful. Only someone with childhood trauma can deeply appreciate why it’s important to let kids be kids, to not rush them into thinking like / being an adult 🙏🏼

[@alittlebindi25]

I'm a middle school teacher and what he said towards the end to his childhood self and about his future children was so so true. Children have a unique and happy light and spirit. We have to educate them but we can never dim their light or put it out. Children stay in that light for very few years as it is. I think the strongest adults are those that can still respect and learn from that vulnerable child they once were without wanting to change them.

[@marisela7825]

He grew up a super star, and literally experienced an everyday form of recess! I think he had that happy light for longer than most kids ever will.

[@AnyaB18]

@@marisela7825 Sorry but it doesn’t sound like you watched the interview, grasped the depth of it, or understand psychology. Kids don’t need unending recess, they need emotional stability from the adults in their lives and to be seen / heard (regardless of their earning potential). Monetary success can never fill a hole created by neglect / abuse, and the latter usually extinguishes any happy light…

[@ashleybellerose7104]

Wow. Hes just such a wonderful person. I love the part where he said he appreciates the financial stability of it. That to me means he realizes how lucky he is. Im so glad his childhood didnt break him. Im so glad he can sympathize with those of us that are struggling. Im struggling hard. So hard. This year broke me. I just appreciate that he appreciates what he has you know?

[@amomentwithamber]

WOW! I love this conversation. Cole is so wise. Great thought-provoking questions, too.

[@ColeSprouse-kw7qz]

Thanks for your love,care and support I’m pleased to hear from you Where are you watching from?

[@Mvrcia_]

15 minutes into this conversation and I'm already stunned how self aware Cole is.. I didn't really know his story before, but the fact he opens about it like he does here is so powerful.. motivational and somehow healing at the same time, as many people for sure may relate. I'm glad it showed up on my feed and for sure will share this video with others, and go back to it if needed. Hats off.

[@301Ant]

Facts literally

[@desisarod]

well, people still think he is a kid, and looks like one, but he is THIRTY years old

[@allisonharranmua8193]

From experience most people who grow up with a narsasistic parent are extremely self aware. It's a trauma response. When you grow up under constant scrutiny you learn to constantly scrutinize yourself to monitor your behavior so as not to trigger the narsasist who is literally in charge of your whole life and has made themselves the center of your whole universe. You live for the narsasist. You think, act, move, breathe in ways that please the narsasist always and when you don't there is hell to pay. You feel guilty for even having an original thought or feeling. It's sick and it takes years to recover from.

[@gaila.9852]

@@allisonharranmua8193 It is spelled narcissist, not narsasist.

[@allisonharranmua8193]

@Gail A. I have learning disabilities. I can't control them. You however can control your nasty behavior. Work on this need you have to correct strangers. It's rude and you have made more of a fool of yourself than you have of me. My only failing is misspelling a word. Your's is your personality. How painful it must be to hate yourself so much that you need to correct strangers so you can feel important.

[@dieguismama2330]

You should be so proud of the man you've become. What a self aware, articulate young man. Good for you for overcoming narcissistic abuse in such a toxic environment.

[@8Deandrea8]

I agree. Cole you're amazing. This was a great interview.

[@dxxvah]

Im so grateful for you talking about this and spreading awareness. Having a narcissist in your family, especially when it is your own mother, is so unbelievable difficult and heartbreaking to deal with. sending love and strengh to every npd survivor.

[@asht7899]

Oh keep your mouth shut. He has what he has because of her. He is wealthy because of her. If she hadn't put the effort she put back then, he would be a nobody and they would be still struggling. After she did all that, so easily she was branded as unfit and the so called dad swooped in to "save" the day. Where was he for his kids when she had to do everything by herself. Sometimes American kids are so damn ungrateful.

[@melnelo3875]

Cole is well-spoken, engaging, and funny. Great interview!

[@th0mine]

this whole podcast is literally a therapy session all to itself

[@ssariax]

literally

[@carynmartin6053]

Every episode is worth listening to!🎉❤😊

[@blackqplaylists6751]

Yup! Worth all my time for sure

[@crazystemlady]

Yup. Turns out we don’t rly need therapists. Just time space and good convo with a listening and understanding ear

[@kristen2348]

Exactly my thoughts 😅😊😊

[@gracemitchell8891]

I lost my 38 year old son two years ago and we used to have these conversations, your guest brought tears to my eyes with his willingness to look deeply into his life and to view trauma with compassion

[@littlelowy7]

You're a good mother to have had these healthy conversations with your beautiful son! Proud of you and sure he is too

[@bitsmagtv]

Compassion? Really? Are we talking the same language??? The guy dragged his mother down the drain, no mercy whatsoever... I'm lucky he's not my son...

[@sevenseasgamerz5698]

Yes, very difficult to look at trauma with compassion, requires lot of maturity and wisdom.

[@Maxcat22]

Sending you a huge hug ❤

[@marissa._]

@@bitsmagtv Troll! 🤡

[@kebasanders6200]

I love what he says about mental health and how it should be left to professionals, etc. He is so authentic and down to earth.

[@abbycloud668]

I didn’t even intend to watch this bc it was so long so I went to skip through it and just got hooked. He really is intelligent and introspective, and I like to think he’s being honest here. I definitely empathize w the growth mindset and am so happy for him that he’s pulled through w it

[@allwhowander390]

I’ve never heard anyone say they are thankful for their trauma. I was just saying to my therapist the other day, that the child abuse and pain I felt as a child taught me ultimate empathy, to the point that it became a problem. It took me a long time to allow my pain to not only soften me, but also empower me. I do wish I had learned those strengths in a different manner, but learning to not live life in regret or anger is a lesson not everyone comes to realize.

[@mechadoggy]

“I’ve never heard anyone say they are thankful for their trauma” Really? I’m definitely very thankful for my trauma. It’s what allowed me to become so spiritually strong and on fire for God! (For the record, I was sexually molested as a teenager.)

[@siebenhundertsiebenundsiebzig]

@@mechadoggy agreed, I have also felt immense gratitude (after time, and uncovering layers of old buried emotions and so on) for past traumas. Some call them "the crack that lets the light in" 💛

[@bann5777]

I'm so grateful for the abuse and trauma of my childhood from my dad. I would never ever wish that upon anyone, to go through what I went through. But it made me who I am today, it got me to THIS point in my life and it made me see people for who they really are, not who they pretend to be.

[@neurologylove2135]

I'll chime in along with everyone else. I'm grateful for my trauma as well. I'm not sure it's entirely healthy of course as it has made me more hypervigilant in many ways, but it has also made me a better person. Not perfect. Better. That's not to say I wouldn't have wanted to learn these things without trauma.

[@CoCo-yv3hl]

It could be defensive mechanism or coping… I’m not thankful for mine I could have been a nicer person or even liked men had it not been for r@pe. Also some ppl become willing participants

[@annac.5630]

"I don't ever want to be perceived as a victim of it. I'm not and have never been and never will be a victim of any circumstance that I'm in. I don't wear victimhood on my shoulder, I don't act like I'm my wounds and to repeatedly be reminded of my wounds." Really powerful stuff.

[@ItsMickey]

how so?

[@peachdreams]

so so powerful

[@aliceyeomans3076]

This whole interview and it’s scope on mental health is so incredible and so helpful and insightful it’s really worth a watch. Cole’s emotional and general intelligence has actually astounded me, watching and listening to people like this and hearing stories like his are the types of things that aid my growth and my continued resilience through life’s hardships.

[@elliesiu831]

Easily one of the most insightful conversations I’ve listened to in awhile from celebrities

[@KristenLB]

The level of work this man must've done on himself is really crazy. To be able to speak about his Mother like he does, honestly, but without throwing her under the bus would be really hard unless you'd done a lot of work within yourself. Love how he views his life and what's happened to him- how he chooses to find gratitudes about her in any small way, which I think maybe was instrumental to healing. Also him talking in so much detail about his relationships and how his childhood bled out into that until he learned himself and grew to love himself, is also so meaningful to hear.

[@NF40375]

Real Talk

[@jess_jeff7549]

Also, the way he speaks about the victimhood, the anxiety.. grounding himself with the 5 senses, I think people will learn from his words. "We trade trauma for wisdom." I've been diagnosed with PTSD since 14. At 27, I finally 'accepted' the idea of childhood trauma & how its shaped my behaviors. I'm now 30 and haven't done much work on myself yet

[@tlc8023]

I felt an incredible connection with Cole watching Riverdale. Now I know why. There was a scene in Riverdale wherein he broke down crying after speaking to his mom in a phonebooth. That acting felt so authentic and raw and relatable, I had a lump in my throat. Being raised by a narcissistic mother is tough.

[@natashaabdool5873]

I was wondering why I felt that connection as well when watching that show. This makes so much sense now.

[@shelbybender5988]

Same.

[@clarabravoavendano2282]

Felt it too.

[@haltertopbabe]

you do such interesting interviews omg! wow! i've never really seen cole's personality, but he seems so genuine and articulate, i love it! i like what he said about how we should admire the strength that we get from pain. don't look at the pain, look at the strength that comes from it. i love that.

[@Kokoloco666]

This is everything I’ve ever wanted to hear or say or think about. There’s so much wisdom here, answers to questions I’ve truly dealt with in very deep and sad ways, and still after watching this twice and some of his other podcasts it still is sinking in. Thank you for this Cole and DOAC. ❤

[@TheMirandalorian]

I LOVED his response to the "for better or for worse" response... no, it's always for the better. His response of "we trade trauma for wisdom". I will never forget that.

[@rlfrohs6123]

Except that is not really true. Trauma actually changes the brain. No one should welcome trauma and think it leads to wisdom. It takes a lot of work and help to retrain the brain and lots of therapy to move forward and be able to move forward. Mistakes that one makes may lead to better choices later which could be viewed as wisdom. However, true trauma is not something anyone should be elated about.

[@Maryam-tw2hn]

Gosh I think this is the first podcast that brought years to my eyes in the first 15 mins Cole and Dylan Sprouse were my childhood and I never realised he went through so much :( I love his positivity. 'in everything there is a blessing'

[@olikah4667]

Me too. Like u really do not know ppl’s lives. Perception clearly isn’t reality. I’m glad to see him and Dylan doing well. Having a narcissistic family is horrendous.

[@FkYouProbably]

How did this kid get an interview? He’s mega irrelevant, not a ceo, and is awfully weird… also not a very good person

[@kelseyjay-lo6kx]

Really good episode

[@marisela7825]

​@@olikah4667 oh yeah, mom set them up to be wealthy, consistently working actor super stars! Horrendous? Seriously??

[@caissa6187]

Really great interview. Cole is so willing to be open and honest and very well spoken. Haven't seen this guy in a long while and it was nice to see him again. Thanks!

[@monicataylor7871]

so happy to see he is at peace with life. We are the same age and I grew up in a shitty childhood, but remember watching Dylan and Cole on suite life of zac and cody. the comedy was much needed . well done for getting to where you are.

[@ColeSprouse-kw7qz]

Thanks for your love,care and support I’m pleased to hear from you Where are you watching from?

[@dispectful4371]

Anyone else can listen to cole for hours and hours?😩 MAKE YOUR OWN PODCAST

[@nicoled9161]

Major respect for any celebrity who admits they have a narcissistic parent! I feel you, Cole.

[@clarifyingquestions]

More respect if he acknowledges both parents:) Think about the biology - it takes TWO to make one child.

[@weesh4645]

​@@clarifyingquestionshe did lol. He spoke about his dad at the beginning and compared the parenting styles

[@clarifyingquestions]

@@weesh4645 indeed dad had custody forced on him and mom not able to be a single parent. Sucks to be a kid with no parents but at least he has talent and a work ethic and like he said well off financially - not fair but has to re parent himself and go be awesome in the world.

[@staceystrukel1917]

@@clarifyingquestions exactly. Many poor people go through the same things but he knows he is lucky to have the finances to help him.

[@nicoled9161]

​@@clarifyingquestions Well just because one parent is a narcissist doesn't mean that they both are. Also NPD isn't hereditary but narcissistic "traits" and "tendencies" can be passed down if that makes sense. Most of cases are a result of severe trauma before age 6. I've done a lot of research on the topic bc my mom has NPD.

[@madAL402]

I have never identified so much with someone, yet come from such different growing experiences. I feel that feeling an outsider whilst growing up was something in common, but for me was just being a 3rd culture kid. I value true connection and deep honest conversation , communication, and connection at large, more than almost everything material in life. Thank you so much, and I am so proud to feel such that Cole is such a kindred spirit. I feel I have had such a harder time recognizing a lot of the qualities he presents in this conversation to be positive within myself, but seeing him communicate them eloquently has given me a sense of renewed faith that I am on the correct path, and proud of the ways I have reflected upon and grown from the trauma and strife I have faced through my years growing. I hope to continue, and to find the resolve and unwavering self acceptance and belief in my competences and worthiness of success to push through and actualize my dreams and goals. Happy to have found this channel, and will be going through these discussions thoroughly! Thank you so much!

[@katiebugbooth4212]

I feel his truth in reflection of his life. He has done a lot of self work.

[@darcychedolce1757]

I love him talking. Eloquent, fluid, transparent and raw, yet eually 'calculated' due to introspection, of which has evidently mastered. Loved this 🙏🏻💗

[@darcychedolce1757]

Additionally, I'd be curious to see Dylan beside him. Comparatively, based on speech giving and understanding.

[@eps3154]

The word you were looking for may have been 'intentional' rather than calculated. But lovely observation. If he's reading, I'm sure he appreciated your sincere compliment 💛

[@corkycarla]

❤ don't forget BEAUTIFUL ❤

[@ashleyduckworthyt3224]

A narcissist parent is the hardest life challenge I’ve had to “overcome” and I like that Cole points out that you never quite reconcile the two sides of that relationship. ❤

[@katjaxxx7353]

Same here. And then it’s us who are “the ones” and are not thankful for “what they have done all this years for us”. I could throw up 🤮

[@mickadatwist1620]

@@katjaxxx7353 You know Liebe Katja: I stopped talking to my "family" (parents and a sister) a few years ago now and have to say it was a relief and a necessary step to move on. This was my "forgiveness"

[@northofyou33]

Yes, me , too. A narcissistic mother. So very painful and confusing. But also a lesson that enriches you in many ways, if you tackle that wound.

[@ashleyduckworthyt3224]

@@katjaxxx7353 yeah you’re 100% correct.

[@ashleyduckworthyt3224]

@@northofyou33 that’s a great way to put it.

[@peterbarton6273]

As a triplet that was thrown into acting around 7 (stopping around 11) This interview resonates with me deeper than any podcast I've ever listened to.

[@a1jackiee123]

This conversation Absolutely blessed my heart. To hear Cole speak so freely and in these deep conversations are very moving. No words Can really describe how happy It’s made me feel like I can understand how similar we all may can connect on some levels. Thank You!!

[@esththom]

Was only planning to watch the first 5 minutes, but the depth and intelligence of this man captivated me. I would love to sit and have a heart to heart with him. Fascinating individual.

[@esththom]

What he said about not dwelling on the past and learning from our experiences struck as I've seemed to build my identity on being a victim and labeled "mentally ill". But no more. I now see things in a different light. I wish he would write a book because I believe I can learn a lot more from him even though I'm 15 years his senior.

[@juliemartin5397]

Agreed I thought OK LA former child actor..... affected. But he is funny, articulate, self deprecating. I like him.

[@amydyson802]

He’s speaking my life story minus the fame. “How are you so normal?” the main question everyone asks me and it’s heartbreaking to think the norm is for us to all be absolutely destroyed by what happened to us. You are loved. You are strong. You are not what was done to you, you are who YOU choose to be.

[@comeworkoutwithme9319]

Cole really gave some great advice on mental health walking away to collect your emotions is so powerful. This was a very well articulated conversation and I really appreciate this interview.

[@44dickens44]

As someone who grew up with a sexually abusive parent and the other parent emotionally volatile, I really loved his perspective on trauma and living life without focusing on it and moving on from it. Teared up a little as it's difficult in practice but somehow, his words made me feel comforted and imparted strength.

[@kln2729]

Thank you for humanizing "famous people" and giving people a safe space to be vulnerable. The dialogue is healing!❤

[@alecmccarron]

I have a tremendous amount of respect for Cole after hearing this. He's unbelievably articulate and self-aware. Great podcast Steven 🙏

[@AngiexMarie]

Seriously, like wow the amount of connection that I felt with his views even though we live vastly differently lives I reminds me we all live the same human experience Hard to explain how insightful and thoughtful this convo was. Very takin back by his emotional intelligence

[@AngiexMarie]

Seriously, like wow the amount of connection that I felt with his views even though we live vastly differently lives I reminds me we all live the same human experience Hard to explain how insightful and thoughtful this convo was. Very takin back by his emotional intelligence

[@VC-mo5yg]

This is what mountains and years of therapy, self learning and group therapy does for you. HEALING. UNDERSTANDING. PEACE.

[@kyeryan2999]

I love seeing somebody i essentially grew up with, be so down to earth and self aware and focused on his growth. I didn't think i would resonate so much with his experience. Really glad i tuned in on this and Im rooting for his success in all areas of life

[@jessicasmith5728]

This was a good interview. I had no idea Dylan and Cole's mother has had a life long drug problem until very recently in 2023. I read that they were born in Italy when their parents were teaching English at a school over there. Then, when they got back to the US, divorced when the twins were about five years old. I had no idea things were really bad for Cole and his twin brother to the point where their father was given full custody of them. I myself can relate to what Cole's saying. My mom didn't have a drug problem, but she had a number of mental health issues. I grew up with trauma, fear and abuse in many different ways. I was molested by a family member and my ex-stepdad while in the care of my mother. I went to therapy for a few years and learned not to see myself as a victim like Cole has. My traumatic past doesn't define who I am today. But, my unsheltered childhood has helped me realize when something is wrong. Btw, I liked the Just for Kicks movie. It was sort of a suburban soccer mom film. I saw it one day on This TV when the network was still available in my area. 😊

[@BA-fz6lc]

I'm so sorry for which happened you,it happened me like you i was molested

[@tayzonday]

Wow. Thanks for being so vulnerable. This will help a lot of people. 🙏❤️

[@wendyslittleprogram3984]

It’s chocolate rain guy!

[@SirNecro]

​@@GrizzlyGamingHVT88 I feel sad that you feel empowered to use this platform to emotionally manipulate other members of the forum

[@rocketi05]

One of KZbin OGs!

[@SirNecro]

@@GrizzlyGamingHVT88" I feel so sad and concerned YOU are essentially saying thank you to his mother for treating him in such a hurtful manner" is not a commentary on Coles experience, it's you having a veiled attack on another forum member.

[@wendyslittleprogram3984]

Stay dry out there Tay!

[@jumaguzman]

It's beautiful how he focused on his triumph over his past pain. A beautiful mindset and a beautiful way to get over trauma

[@ginafarley6190]

Totally have to walk over the hot coals alone. The only way to heal IMHO

[@IndianaBones]

One of the best Interviewer i have seen right here. Well respectful and polite without cutting into the conversion. Subbed for that reason!