Episodes

  • Title: Navigating the Shadows: Kaylin's Journey Through Abuse, Trafficking, and Healing

    Title: Navigating the Shadows: Kaylin's Journey Through Abuse, Trafficking, and Healing
    Dec 10 2025
    In this episode of "Braveheart Speak," host Lucia Severtson welcomes Kaylin, a survivor and advocate, who shares her powerful journey through childhood abuse, human trafficking, and addiction. Kaylin details her struggles, the failures of support systems, and her path to healing through faith, therapy, and advocacy. She reflects on reclaiming her voice, the importance of empathy, and her work supporting other survivors. The episode highlights the complexities of trauma, the need for compassionate listening, and encourages listeners to speak out, support survivors, and join a growing community of brave voices. Timestamps Grounding and Content Warning (00:01:06) Lucia offers a grounding exercise and cautions listeners about the episode's sensitive topics. Family of Origin and Early Abuse (00:06:28) Kaylin describes her childhood, her mother's hospitalizations, and abuse by her grandmother. Mother's Emotional Abuse and Judgment (00:07:37) Kaylin explains her mother's shift to judgmental behavior and emotional abuse. Grandmother's Continued Stalking (00:11:02) Kaylin describes her grandmother's stalking and the failure of authorities to intervene. Systemic Failures and Stigma (00:11:59) Kaylin discusses the difficulty of being believed and the justice system's failures. Leaving Home and Teenage Pregnancy (00:14:05) Kaylin describes running away, early independence, and becoming pregnant at 17. Finding Stability and Support (00:15:36) Kaylin's father helps her move, leading to subsidized housing and some stability. Entry into Human Trafficking (00:17:28) Kaylin explains how vulnerability led to being trafficked, and the manipulative tactics used. Seeking Validation and Worth (00:19:15) Kaylin reflects on seeking love and validation through appearance and pleasing others. Forced Criminal Activity and Homelessness (00:23:14) Kaylin describes being forced to transport drugs and guns, losing her home, and increased exploitation. Reflection on Numbness and Love (00:26:41) Kaylin discusses being in love with her trafficker and not recognizing abuse as abnormal. Cycle of Abuse and Addiction (00:36:12) Kaylin describes further abuse, addiction, and the struggle to break free from toxic relationships. Turning Point and Reinvention (00:39:39) Kaylin describes being arrested, using jail as a chance to reinvent herself, and regaining self-control. Relearning Empathy (00:46:07) Kaylin shares how she had to relearn empathy for herself and others during recovery. Advice to Survivors and Allies (00:47:23) Kaylin offers advice to survivors and the importance of speaking out and seeking help. Advocacy Work and Future Goals (00:51:41) Kaylin shares her current advocacy, public speaking, and hopes to influence legislation and support survivors. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Kaylin, 'I have a deep faith in God now through my healing process, and I've come to understand that every person has inherent value.'Kaylin, 'The drugs were going in my daughter's car seat. Then the sex trafficking started, really bad. It was constant, all day long.'Kaylin, 'I always say I think I had "Please Abuse Me" written on my forehead because that's all I could find. I just couldn't help but fall into that every single time.'Kaylin, 'I was thanking the officer for catching me. It was a huge, bright light. Finally, someone was going to put me away long enough to get sober and change my life.'Kaylin, 'I'm not afraid to speak anymore. I have a voice and I like to use it.' RESOURCES: Connect with Kaylin: Email: kaylinpolksme@gmail.com She welcomes survivors reaching out and is open to speaking engagements. COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! BRAVE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS; RECLAIMING YOUR LIGHT AND PEACE; A free, 15-minute guided meditation. Brave Through the Holidays: "Reclaiming Your Light and Peace" 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer:Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider. 👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com Contact us for expert podcast production and support.
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    57 mins
  • Navigating the Emotional Toll of Fighting Back: Monica Hall's Journey of Resilience and Healing (Part 2)

    Navigating the Emotional Toll of Fighting Back: Monica Hall's Journey of Resilience and Healing (Part 2)
    Dec 10 2025
    In this Part 2 episode of Bravehearts Speak, host Lucia Severtson continues her conversation with Monica Hall, picking up where last week's powerful story left off. Building on Part 1, where Monica detailed her fight against unethical practices within a for-profit nursing college, this episode moves deeper into the emotional impact of that battle. Monica opens up about the years of exhaustion, depression, and isolation she endured while standing up for herself and countless students. She also shares the healing she found through faith, community, and creative expression as she rebuilt her life after intense personal and political turmoil. This continuation explores the long-term cost of courage, the resilience required to keep going when systems fail you, and the importance of believing in your own voice. Listeners are invited to honor their own journeys and find strength in community, reminding us that healing and bravery are paths we walk together. Timestamps Beginning Monica's Emotional Journey (00:02:48) Monica begins sharing the emotional aftermath of her battle, focusing on exhaustion and depression. Isolation and Coping Mechanisms (00:05:19) Monica discusses her increasing isolation, unhealthy coping, and feeling misunderstood by peers. Why People Struggle to Support (00:09:16) Monica and Lucia explore why others are uncomfortable with vulnerability and pain. Processing Grief and Prolonged Recovery (00:13:01) Monica reflects on the unrealistic timelines for grief and recovery imposed by society and workplaces. Speaking from a Healed Place (00:16:28) Monica shares gratitude for reaching a place of healing and understanding after years of anger and confusion. Reflection on Discernment (00:25:04) Lucia invites listeners to reflect on which battles are worth their energy. Turning Point: Seeing Herself Again (00:28:21) Monica recounts a pivotal moment during the pandemic when she realized she needed to heal. Attempting to Write and Continued Struggles (00:28:52) Monica starts writing her story, lands a literary agent, but continues to struggle with addiction and anger. Year of Healing and Sobriety (00:31:00) Monica details her commitment to healing, sobriety, and finally feeling at peace. Trusting Divine Guidance (00:38:32) Monica shares inspiration from a mentor and her faith in being guided through uncertainty. Encouragement for Listeners (00:43:26) Monica urges listeners to believe in themselves and trust their inner voice, even after dark times. Book Plans and Final Reflections (00:45:04) Monica shares hopes for her book's release and the impact her story can have on others. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Monica, 'We're taught to keep it moving, to be strong, but we're human first and we feel things deeply.'Monic, 'I am speaking from a healed place; I can't tell you how good this feels, even though I am crying.'Monica, 'I literally got on my knees and said, "God, you're going to have to heal me, grow me up, and get me through this."'Monica, 'First and foremost, you've got to believe in yourself.'Monica, 'You can still have a beautiful life, even after going through something that devastated you.' RESOURCES: Connect with Monica: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK VISIT HER WEBSITE: www.MonicaMHall.com COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! BRAVE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS; RECLAIMING YOUR LIGHT AND PEACE; A free, 15-minute guided meditation. Brave Through the Holidays: "Reclaiming Your Light and Peace" 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer:Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider.👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com Contact us for expert podcast production and support.
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    50 mins
  • [Minisode] Healing Through Honesty: A Journey of Overcoming Subtle Abuse and Reclaiming Self-Worth

    [Minisode] Healing Through Honesty: A Journey of Overcoming Subtle Abuse and Reclaiming Self-Worth
    Nov 26 2025
    In this mini episode of "Brave Hearts Speak", host Lucia Severtson shares a personal story of emotional abuse and boundary violations by people she once considered family. She reflects on the subtle forms of harm, the importance of everyday bravery, and the healing power of speaking one's truth. The episode also highlights resources for support, including a guided meditation and the Headway platform for accessible mental health care. Lucia encourages listeners to recognize their own bravery, reject shame, and join a supportive community dedicated to healing and empowerment. Timestamps Dreams and Processing the Past (00:02:34) Describes recurring dreams about her abuser, the emotional impact, and the need to speak her truth for healing. Living with the "Van Creeps" (00:05:13) Describes her living situation in Los Angeles with relatives, their attitudes, and family dynamics. The Night of Boundary Violation (00:07:40) Details the incident of subtle abuse by a relative, her conditioned response, and the aftermath. Isolation and Struggle in Los Angeles (00:12:19) Discusses her loneliness, lack of community, and continued association with the abusive relatives. Cutting Ties and Family Symbolism (00:15:51) Describes leaving the relatives behind, her aunt's symbolic actions, and the emotional impact. Speaking Truth After Loss (00:17:03) Reflects on her aunt's death, the importance of honesty, and rejecting the idea that death erases harm. Reclaiming Bravery and Self-Worth (00:18:12) Emphasizes the importance of telling the truth, rejecting shame, and recognizing subtle abuse. Three Takeaways on Bravery (00:19:29) Shares three key lessons: subtle abuse is real, silence is survival, and it's never too late to tell your story. Powerful Quotes from the Episode 'This is me finally touching something I buried for decades.' 'I'm not telling this out of revenge. I'm telling it because I didn't know anger was allowed until only recently.' 'I am proud of my 21-year-old self, even though there's a part of her inside me who still feels like a failure for not making it in Los Angeles.' 'Those people were never my people. That house was never my home. And everything I walked away from was meant to be left behind.' 'Death doesn't rewrite history. Death doesn't turn cruelty into kindness. And I will not pretend the wounds I carried came from a gentle place because she's no longer here.' 'Truth has no expiration date. If the memory still lives in your body, your voice is still needed. Speaking now is liberation.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! BRAVE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS; RECLAIMING YOUR LIGHT AND PEACE; A free, 15-minute guided meditation. Brave Through the Holidays: "Reclaiming Your Light and Peace" 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer:Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider. 👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com Contact us for expert podcast production and support.
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    22 mins
  • From Grief to Advocacy: The Unbreakable Spirit of Nurse Survivor Monica Hall (Part 1)

    From Grief to Advocacy: The Unbreakable Spirit of Nurse Survivor Monica Hall (Part 1)
    Nov 26 2025
    In this episode of "Brave Hearts Speak," host Lucia Severtson interviews Monica Hall, a nurse advocate, survivor, and soon-to-be published memoirist. Monica shares her powerful journey—from pursuing her nursing degree in 2009 to becoming an unexpected voice for legislative reform in Kentucky after uncovering unethical practices within a for-profit nursing college. Her story extends far beyond academic injustice. Monica has navigated profound grief, battled alcoholism, faced political intimidation, and confronted systemic corruption—all while standing up for students who lacked a voice. Drawing on deep faith, resilience, and her belief in advocating for those without power or privilege, Monica now channels her experiences into two upcoming memoirs, School of Hard Knocks and Freedom. In Part 1 of this conversation, Monica recounts the emotional and political battles that shaped her, offering listeners a raw and inspiring look into courage, healing, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Timestamps Monica's Background and Nursing Journey (00:02:35) Lucia introduces Monica's story, her advocacy, and her initial motivation for entering nursing. Starting at the For-Profit College (00:07:40) Monica describes enrolling in the RN program, her initial positive experiences, and the supportive instructors. Struggles with Grief, Sobriety, and Legal Battles (00:11:59) Monica reveals her recovery from alcoholism, her nephew's death in jail, and the challenges of seeking justice. Organizational Abuse and Administrative Neglect (00:20:15) She describes faculty neglect, the director's dismissive attitude, and the toxic environment at the college. Board of Nursing Intervention and Systemic Corruption (00:23:05) Monica explains the Board of Nursing's site visit, the program's closure, and the legal/political corruption protecting the school. Legislative Advocacy and Reform (00:32:04) Monica details working with lawmakers, testifying before committees, and helping draft and pass new legislation. Retaliation, Intimidation, and Political Pressure (00:41:17) She recounts being fired, her home being ransacked, and political threats against her supporters. Confronting Smear Campaigns and Publicly Speaking Out (00:45:24) Monica addresses attempts to discredit her, confronts lawmakers, and publicly asserts her credibility. Recognizing a National Issue and Deciding to Fight (00:51:42) Monica explains realizing the widespread nature of the problem and her decision to take action. Facing Arrogance and Gender Dynamics (00:52:42) She describes the arrogance of the school's leadership and her disappointment in female leaders who failed to support students. Looking Ahead: Healing and Recovery (00:54:54) Monica and Lucia discuss plans to continue the conversation, focusing on Monica's emotional recovery and current well-being. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Monica, 'Now I am at a place where I thank God for it all. I don't feel anger or grief anymore. I feel free.' Monica, 'I was grieving, but I didn't let it destroy me. I was still moving ahead.' Monica, 'By the grace of God, I passed it and I was so proud of myself because of everything I was going through, but I did not stop.' Monica, 'I have done the work, I am healed. I am telling this story from a place of being healed. It doesn't hurt anymore.' Monica, 'Sometimes you just know there's something you have to fight for or fight against. That was definitely a time.' Monica, 'Every step of the way, it's like God put that person in my path to help me fight them.' Monica, 'It wasn't something that was overnight. It was years that I was down in that rabbit hole, depressed, somewhat suicidal at times.' RESOURCES: Connect with Monica: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK VISIT HER WEBSITE: www.MonicaMHall.com COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! BRAVE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS; RECLAIMING YOUR LIGHT AND PEACE; A free, 15-minute guided meditation. Brave Through the Holidays: "Reclaiming Your Light and Peace" 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer:Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider. 👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at...
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • [Minisode] Why Auditioning for Belonging is So Last Season

    [Minisode] Why Auditioning for Belonging is So Last Season
    Nov 12 2025
    In this mini episode of "Brave Hearts Speak", host Lucia Severtson shares a personal story about her challenging partnership with the nonprofit Mountain Sisterhood. She explores subtle forms of abuse and hierarchy disguised as community, describing emotional labor, dismissal, and the importance of reciprocity. Lucia reframes the question from "Do they want me?" to "Do I want them?" and encourages listeners to seek genuine, co-creative spaces. The episode offers insights on recognizing covert abuse, building true community, and choosing environments that honor one's worth and bravery. Timestamps Story Introduction: Community or Hierarchy? (00:01:40) Introduces the main story about discerning true community from disguised hierarchy and subtle abuse. Initial Partnership with Mountain Sisterhood (00:03:06) Describes the beginnings of the partnership, initial impressions, and early signs of imbalance. Pre-Hike Dread & Group Dynamics (00:07:58) Shares feelings of dread before the hike, lack of excitement, and uncertainty about co-leadership. The Hike: Coldness and Exclusion (00:09:15) Describes the hike day, lack of recognition as co-leader, and the cold, unwelcoming group atmosphere. Reflection on Abuse and Community (00:13:15) Calls out the subtle abuse experienced, discusses expectations in community, and urges braver participation. Takeaways: Partnership, Generosity, and Standards (00:16:58) Shares three key lessons: true partnership, co-creating safety, and shifting the question to "Do I want this?" Powerful Quotes from the Episode 'I cannot approach things from the question of do they want me anymore? Am I good enough for them? The question has got to start being are they what I want? And do they meet my standards? And for me, the answer is no.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! BRAVE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS; RECLAIMING YOUR LIGHT AND PEACE; A free, 15-minute guided meditation. Brave Through the Holidays: "Reclaiming Your Light and Peace" 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer:Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider. 👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com Contact us for expert podcast production and support.
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    22 mins
  • From Silence to Strength: June Hill's Story of Survival and Hope

    From Silence to Strength: June Hill's Story of Survival and Hope
    Nov 12 2025
    In this episode of "Brave Hearts Speak", host Lucia Severtson welcomes June Hill, who shares her powerful journey of surviving childhood abuse, complex PTSD, and reclaiming her life. June discusses her role as protector of her siblings, the impact of trauma, and her path to healing through therapy, advocacy, and storytelling. Now a life coach and author, June inspires listeners with messages of self-compassion, authenticity, and hope, emphasizing that healing is possible. The episode offers a safe space for reflection, connection, and community, encouraging women to embrace their worth and speak their truth. Timestamps Experiences of Abuse and Dissociation (00:08:08) June describes physical and sexual abuse, dissociation, and the normalization of trauma in her childhood. The Role of PTSD in Survival (00:13:34) June reframes PTSD as a protective mechanism and discusses its impact on her adult life. Adolescence, Escape Attempts, and Custody (00:16:14) June recounts running away, returning for her siblings, and eventually gaining custody of them. Normalizing Dysfunction and Seeking Connection (00:20:51) Reflection on how chaos can feel like home and the challenge of breaking familiar patterns. Therapy, Diagnosis, and the Turning Point (00:29:59) June describes her MS diagnosis, the loss of her job, and how therapy and research on complex PTSD began her healing. Comparison, Empathy, and Validating All Trauma (00:36:22) Addressing the tendency to compare traumas and affirming that all pain is valid and deserving of healing. Reclaiming the Self and Embracing Emotions (00:44:04) June talks about reclaiming hidden parts of herself, processing anger, and learning to stand up for her needs. Helping Others and Advocacy Work (00:52:06) June shares her current work: support groups, public speaking, and her upcoming book to help others feel less alone. Final Messages and Self-Compassion (00:53:16) June offers words of encouragement, emphasizing self-grace, self-care, and the importance of belonging. Book Announcement and Closing Reflections (00:54:14) June introduces her book, "The Birth of an Advocate," and discusses its themes and release. Powerful Quotes from the Episode June, 'Having my children made me realize how much I needed to change.' June, 'I would take any of the pain for them, and if they were safe, then what was happening to me was worth it.' June, 'I think my siblings just want the love we never really got, and they're still going to chase it. For me, it's more peaceful to have the hole than to try to fill it with someone who will never change.' June, 'Men didn't like women who are strong or have a voice, and I have fought against that my entire life.' June, 'The more I talk, the more I find people who relate, and helping them is helping me.' June, 'Now I feel a power in it. I can proudly say, this is what I've been through. I made it out.' June, 'It's such a freeing experience knowing there's nothing in my closet anymore. I have nothing to hide.' June, 'Healing is nowhere near a straight line. It's a roller coaster, but it's so worth it.' June, 'You need to give yourself the same grace you give to everyone else you're taking care of. You do deserve it.' June, 'Learn what you enjoy, what you love, what is important to you, and find people who connect with that—not those who want something from you.' RESOURCES: Connect with June: YouTube Channel Facebook Support Group About June's Upcoming Book: My novel, The Birth of an Advocate, is in the final editing stage and I will update my followers with a release date as soon as I have it. This book is like another child to me, as I have poured myself into it, in hopes of educating others on the effects of Complex PTSD, the importance of mental health, and helping those who live with trauma-induced mental illness feel less alone. No matter how bad, how long, or how old you are — you can, and you absolutely deserve to heal. COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! BRAVE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS; RECLAIMING YOUR LIGHT AND PEACE; A free, 15-minute guided meditation. Brave Through the Holidays: "Reclaiming Your Light and Peace" 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer:Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider. 👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This ...
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    1 hr
  • [Minisode] When No One Shows Up: Choosing Yourself Anyway

    [Minisode] When No One Shows Up: Choosing Yourself Anyway
    Oct 29 2025

    In this episode of "Brave Hearts Speak", host Lucia Severtson shares a vulnerable story about leading a therapeutic improv session at her nonprofit, the Brave Women's Community Center. When few women attended, Lucia confronted feelings of invisibility and self-doubt rooted in past betrayal. Despite this, she chose to show up for herself and the small group, turning the session into a powerful experience. Lucia reflects on the importance of redefining success, challenging internalized negative voices, and investing in supportive communities, reminding listeners that true bravery is about showing up and choosing yourself, even when it's hard.

    Timestamps

    Therapeutic Improv and Initial Success (00:01:40) Lucia describes her nonprofit's mission and the role of therapeutic improv, sharing early successes with group attendance.

    Recounting Past Betrayal (00:04:22) Lucia details a specific abusive group dynamic with eight women, reflecting on the pain and her vision for a new way of women supporting women.

    Creating a Safe, Feminine Space (00:06:59) She sets up her studio, emphasizing its welcoming, creative, and imperfectly authentic atmosphere.

    The Session with Only Three Attendees (00:08:24) Despite low turnout, Lucia leads a meaningful session, highlighting the bravery and growth of the small group.

    Personal Growth and Lessons from Participants (00:09:34) Lucia shares insights from Shaye, Jennifer, and Jennifer's daughter, focusing on leadership, letting go of perfection, and courage.

    Lessons Learned: Showing Up and Redefining Success (00:12:00) She summarizes key lessons: show up for yourself, challenge internalized abuser voices, and redefine success beyond external validation.

    Sorting Relationships and Setting Boundaries (00:14:23) Lucia encourages listeners to invest in supportive people and set boundaries with those who undermine them.

    Powerful Quotes from the Episode

    'The old story came flooding back to me: I'm invisible, I don't belong, I don't matter.'

    'I learned to show up for the women who show up for me.'

    'When I show up for them, something powerful happens—the shame and not-good-enough voices fade, and I'm left with connection.'

    'The choice is yours: do you cancel on yourself, or do you show up anyway?'

    'Maybe you've felt alone for too long. I know that feeling.'

    RESOURCES:

    COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA

    TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here!

    A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW!

    FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

    VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER

    CONNECT ON FACEBOOK

    CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM

    JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE!

    💼 Partner Offer: Headway

    Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients.

    ✨ Special Offer:
    Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider.
    👉 Join Headway Here!

    Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible.

    Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

    Contact us for expert podcast production and support.
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    17 mins
  • Finding Peace After Narcissistic Abuse: Laura Richards' Journey to Healing and Self-Love

    Finding Peace After Narcissistic Abuse: Laura Richards' Journey to Healing and Self-Love
    Oct 29 2025
    In this episode of "Brave Hearts Speak", host Lucia Severtson interviews Laura Richards, a survivor of decades-long narcissistic abuse and host of That's Where I'm At. Laura shares her journey from confusion and pain in an abusive marriage to finding healing, self-love, and peace. She discusses the challenges of recognizing psychological abuse, setting boundaries, and rebuilding her life. The conversation highlights the importance of community, storytelling, and bravery in breaking free from cycles of abuse, offering hope and guidance to listeners navigating similar experiences. Timestamps Before the Relationship: Longing for Love (00:04:43) Laura shares her early life, family trauma, and her deep need to be loved before meeting her ex. Early Red Flags and Love Bombing (00:15:05) Laura recounts how she met her ex, the rapid progression of their relationship, and early signs of narcissistic abuse. Control, Backhanded Compliments, and Covert Abuse (00:21:42) Laura describes subtle control tactics, covert narcissism, and the confusion it creates. Finding Her Voice Through Therapy (00:28:14) Laura explains how therapy helped her find her voice, understand boundaries, and begin healing. Suicidal Thoughts and the Turning Point (00:40:19) Laura discusses reaching a breaking point, the dangers of couples therapy with a narcissist, and her decision to leave. Life After Leaving: Healing and Anger (00:47:53) Laura describes her initial healing, discovering her ex's infidelity, and the anger that followed. The Power of Vulnerability and Connection (00:54:05) Laura emphasizes the importance of sharing, vulnerability, and the rapid breaking of shame in community. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Laura, 'He never would even acknowledge me that way, so I always just felt like, do I matter?' Laura, 'Once you start healing, you will not put up with anything. When you love yourself enough, you won't put up with garbage.' Laura, 'I needed to slow down, but I couldn't because I had that deep need inside me to be loved.' Laura, 'I didn't realize I was being abused until after my divorce.' Laura, 'I started to find my voice and understand that I have certain responsibilities, and other people have certain responsibilities, and I can walk through this world loving myself and being who I want to be.' 'Laura, 'I don't need a minute. I need one word: peace. That's the biggest thing—I walk in this world in peace.' RESOURCES: Connect with Laura: COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlaura SELF WORTH RESET MINI COURSE: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/minicourse YOU'RE NOT CRAZY ebook: GET IT HERE MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HERE FOLLOW THE PODCAST: http://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! A FREE INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO HELP YOU DEFINE ABUSE AND BRAVERY - GET YOURS NOW! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Brave Hearts Speak on Apple Podcasts and Spotify VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THE BRAVE WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CENTER CONNECT ON FACEBOOK CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM JOIN OUR MEETUP GROUP FOR LOCALS TO DENVER, COLORADO – JOIN HERE! 💼 Partner Offer: Headway Looking to simplify insurance-based therapy? Headway helps licensed therapists and psychiatrists manage credentialing, billing, and admin — so you can focus on your clients. ✨ Special Offer: Sign up through our referral link and receive a $100 bonus when you join Headway as a provider. 👉 Join Headway Here! Disclosure: We may receive a referral bonus when you sign up through this link. This helps support the Brave Women's Community Center and our mission to make mental health care more accessible. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com Contact us for expert podcast production and support.
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    1 hr and 3 mins