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The Research Is Within: Stephanie's Story PT 2
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Healing isn't just about surviving trauma—it's about reclaiming your voice, rediscovering joy, and finally coming home to yourself. That's the powerful message at the heart of this deeply moving conversation with Stephanie, a survivor who's transforming her experiences with narcissistic abuse into creative purpose.
"I don't need anyone to call me an author. I can call myself that," Stephanie declares in what becomes one of many breakthrough moments in this episode. We explore how economic abuse continues long after physical separation, the profound process of "unlearning" who we thought our abusers were, and the liberation that comes when we stop seeking external validation.
Stephanie's journey takes us through the writing of her children's book on self-worth, the heartbreak of loss that became a catalyst for her transformation, and the disturbing patterns of narcissistic parenting that created vulnerability to similar dynamics in adult relationships. Her candid revelations about childhood experiences—where inappropriate boundaries and gaslighting were normalized—illuminate how early trauma shapes our understanding of love and safety.
What makes this episode particularly special is Stephanie's perspective on creative expression as healing. For her, writing has become meditation, a flow state where she reconnects with her authentic self. This highlights an often-overlooked truth: healing isn't just therapy sessions and painful processing—it's also about rediscovering what brings you joy and purpose.
Whether you're currently in an abusive situation, processing childhood trauma, or supporting someone who is, Stephanie offers practical wisdom: "Find your people and keep them close," and "Listen to yourself." Her story reminds us that in speaking our truth—even when our voice shakes—we not only heal ourselves but potentially help others recognize and escape similar situations.
The research is within. Your story is your data, your wisdom, and ultimately, your power. Join us for this transformative conversation about finding freedom through authenticity, creativity, and self-trust.
Support Stephanie's work! Buy her book, I Am Me and That Is Worthy:
Link coming soon!
FOLLOW STEPH ON SUBSTACK:
https://a.co/d/0Z7Zyog
FOLLOW STEPH ON INSTA:
https://www.instagram.com/stechristine?igsh=MWFibXRvY281djNpaA==
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Chapters
1. Welcome to a Story of Survival (00:00:00)
2. Economic Abuse and Moving Forward (00:05:42)
3. Becoming Your Own Validation Source (00:09:51)
4. Finding Strength in the Darkest Moments (00:16:31)
5. Healing Through Creative Expression (00:22:10)
6. Childhood Narcissism and Breaking Free (00:30:00)
7. Advice for Those Still Struggling (00:38:26)
8. Closing Thoughts and Hope (00:42:49)
20 episodes
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