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  • [Minisode] From Competition to Collaboration: Creating a New Culture of Women's Empowerment

    [Minisode] From Competition to Collaboration: Creating a New Culture of Women's Empowerment
    Feb 18 2026
    In this mini episode of "Braveheart Speak," Lucia, founder of the Brave Women's Community Center, offers a candid reflection on the emotional and relational challenges of building spaces for women survivors of abuse. She explores the quiet bravery needed to persist despite self-doubt and external skepticism, addresses harmful patterns like relational aggression among women, and critiques superficial empowerment culture. Lucia shares her vision for authentic collaboration, accountability, and a new model of women's empowerment rooted in vulnerability, creativity, and genuine connection, inviting listeners to join her in creating lasting change. Timestamps Personal Struggles and Self-Doubt in Building the Center (00:01:22) Lucia shares her internal battles, self-doubt, and the emotional challenges of building the Brave Women's Community Center. Old Conditioning and Feeling Like an "Extra" (00:02:37) Reflection on childhood conditioning, feeling invisible, and how these feelings resurface during her current work. Facing Skepticism and Minimization from Others (00:03:48) Describes external skepticism, being dismissed, and the pain of not being taken seriously in her advocacy work. Finding Support and Choosing to Persevere (00:05:00) Acknowledges supportive people, her decision to keep going, and her commitment to amplifying survivors' voices. Vision for a New Culture of Women's Empowerment (00:06:16) Lucia outlines her vision for genuine collaboration, honesty, and shared power among women. Relational Aggression and Harmful Group Dynamics (00:07:47) Explores destructive patterns in women's groups, such as relational aggression, and the lack of direct confrontation. Naming and Understanding Relational Aggression (00:09:17) Introduces the concept of relational aggression, referencing Rachel Simmons' work, and discusses its normalization. Importance of Structure, Accountability, and Safety (00:11:52) Emphasizes the need for structure, accountability, and relational skills to create true safety in women's spaces. Misuse of "Badass" and True Bravery (00:13:10) Critiques the misuse of "badass" as a label, distinguishing between posturing and genuine bravery. Imagining New Possibilities for Women's Collaboration (00:14:37) Considers what women could achieve by deconstructing harmful patterns and practicing true empowerment. Building a Culture of Disciplined Collaboration (00:18:36) Describes her dream for survivor groups focused on creativity, play, and deconstructing divisive patterns. Discernment and Foundational Community Values (00:19:47) Discusses the importance of discernment, humility, and foundational values in building a healthy community. Three Takeaways on Empowerment, Collaboration, and Discernment (00:20:55) Offers three key lessons: empowerment as behavior, the need for structure in collaboration, and discernment as care. Invitation to Join the Community and Share Voices (00:22:47) Invites listeners to join the email list, share their voices, and participate in building the community. Powerful Quotes from the Episode 'There are many mornings when I wake up and I don't feel brave at all.' 'I'm going to keep amplifying voices that are so often dismissed and minimized.' 'I'm choosing to keep building anyway. Not because it's easy, but because I believe this is exactly where the work is.' 'My dream is to work with groups of survivors who want to speak, who want to reach change makers, who want to tell their stories in ways that penetrate hearts and systems, not just echo inside of safe rooms.' 'Maybe you've felt alone for too long. I know that feeling. But I am here now and we are finding each other.' 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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    24 Min.
  • When the System Fails: Kris Barney's Call for Accountability and Change (Part 2)

    When the System Fails: Kris Barney's Call for Accountability and Change (Part 2)
    Jan 30 2026
    In this powerful episode of "Bravehearts Speak," host Lucia Severtson continues her conversation with Kris Barney, who bravely recounts the loss of her daughter Miranda to domestic violence. Kris shares her journey through grief, systemic failures, and her ongoing fight for justice and awareness. She discusses the hidden dynamics of abuse, the challenges survivors face, and the importance of community and support. The episode offers hope, practical resources, and reflections on resilience, emphasizing that healing and a fulfilling life are possible after trauma. Timestamps The Power of Witnessing and Reflection (00:02:40) Lucia explains the importance of witnessing stories, intentional pauses, and reflecting on personal and systemic responsibility. The Murder of Miranda and Systemic Failures (00:05:23) Kris recounts her daughter Miranda's murder, the suicide tape, and the failures of the legal and social systems. Ignored Warnings and Institutional Inaction (00:06:40) Kris describes how warnings about Charles's intentions were ignored by authorities, leading to tragic consequences. Legal Battles and Lack of Accountability (00:10:31) Kris details her lawsuit against the city, the lack of responsibility from authorities, and her resolve to fight for justice. Gwen's Law and Legislative Challenges (00:20:27) Kris explains the creation of Gwen's Law, its limitations, and ongoing issues with domestic violence legislation in Louisiana. Patterns of Harm and Systemic Normalization (00:25:41) Lucia highlights how harmful patterns are normalized in families and institutions when not confronted. The Impact of Non-Physical Abuse (00:29:22) Kris explains how non-physical abuse rewires victims' brains and the importance of understanding all forms of abuse. Grooming, Manipulation, and Self-Blame (00:29:54) Kris describes how abusers groom and manipulate, leading survivors to self-blame and lose self-esteem. The Importance of Support Networks (00:37:40) Kris credits her family and friends for her survival, noting many survivors lack such support due to isolation. Rebuilding Trust in Systems (00:41:44) Kris shares her struggle to see law enforcement and legal professionals as allies after experiencing systemic failures. Refusing to Disappear and Finding Purpose (00:42:19) Kris describes her refusal to let tragedy define her, choosing to honor her daughter through advocacy and purpose. Homelessness and Financial Abuse (00:43:34) Kris explains how domestic violence leads to homelessness and financial abuse, making it hard for women to leave. Life After Loss and Hope for Survivors (00:45:43) Kris shares her journey to healing, raising healthy children, and encourages others that a good life is possible after abuse. Challenging Systems and Insisting on Accountability (00:47:06) Kris discusses her commitment to challenging systems, making people uncomfortable, and insisting on accountability. Sharing Resources and Building Community (00:49:26) Kris shares Miranda's website and her organization's resources, emphasizing the importance of accessible support. Gratitude and Connection Among Survivors (00:51:35) Kris and the hosts express gratitude, discuss building community, and the importance of survivor connections. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Kris, "All I ever want for anyone suffering or who thinks they can't get out is to know that you can. You will be okay. I'm the perfect example." Kris, "The day I laid her precious, tiny little body in the ground, I decided I was going to fight for her until my very last breath." Kris, "I chose to do something good, not only for Michelle and Miranda, but for everyone else who no longer has a voice." Kris, "If no one else has your back, I will have it. I will have it." Kris, "After Miranda was killed, I got free counseling. So it is attainable. A beautiful and wonderful life is attainable." RESOURCES: Connect with Kris: Speaker • Survivor • Advocate • Community Educator Miranda Faith Memorial Fund Miranda Faith Memorial Fund Facebook Page INSTAGRAM: @hkbarney Email: kris.barney@dartla.org Kris Barney is the Community Advocate with the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team in Ruston, Louisiana. A survivor of domestic violence and stalking, Kris lost her 3-year-old daughter, Miranda, to domestic homicide. She now speaks nationally on resilience, survivor support, and improving community responses to abuse. Kris has trained at major conferences, including the Conference on Crimes Against Women and the National Center on Victims of Crime. COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA JOIN THE PATREON BRAVE HEARTS SPEAK COMMUNITY MONTHLY GATHERINGS: Brave Hearts Speak | Patreon WHO SHOULD HAVE ACCESS TO YOU? (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 ...
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    56 Min.
  • A Mother's Legacy: Transforming Tragedy into Hope for Future Generations (Part 1)

    A Mother's Legacy: Transforming Tragedy into Hope for Future Generations (Part 1)
    Jan 16 2026
    In this powerful episode of "Brave Hearts Speak," host Lucia Severtson interviews Kris Barney, a domestic violence survivor and advocate. Kris shares her harrowing journey through emotional abuse, stalking, and the tragic loss of her three-year-old daughter, Miranda, to domestic homicide. She discusses the systemic failures she faced, her work with the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team, and founding the Miranda Faith Memorial Foundation. Lucia guides listeners with compassion, emphasizing self-care and the importance of bearing witness to survivors' stories. The episode highlights resilience, the need for systemic change, and hope for those affected by domestic violence. Timestamps Kris's Background & Foundation (00:06:15) Kris introduces herself, her work with DART, and the Miranda Faith Memorial Foundation. Importance of Education for Survivors (00:08:00) Kris discusses empowering survivors through education and the challenges women face after leaving abuse. Awareness and Early Signs of Abuse (00:10:08) Kris and the interviewer discuss the importance of awareness and recognizing early signs of abuse. Wedding, Honeymoon, and First Abuse (00:14:28) Kris describes her dream wedding, honeymoon, and the first incident of verbal abuse. Pregnancy, Motherhood, and Escalating Abuse (00:17:56) Kris shares her pregnancy, hopes for family, and how abuse escalated during and after childbirth. Decision to Leave & Realization of Self-Worth (00:25:00) Kris describes the turning point at a firefighter event and her decision to end the marriage. Separation, Stalking, and Escalation (00:28:45) Kris recounts the escalation of stalking and harassment after refusing to reconcile. Stalking, Legal System Failures, and Threats (00:29:41) Kris details relentless stalking, legal obstacles, and threats to her and Miranda's safety. Police Dismissal and Female Officer Betrayal (00:41:23) Kris describes a traumatic experience seeking help from a female police detective. Temporary Relief and New Relationships (00:44:41) Kris finds brief peace when her ex focuses on a new partner and begins a new relationship herself. Ex-Husband's New Victim and Pattern of Abuse (00:47:12) Kris describes her ex's abuse of his new partner, Michelle, and the repeated cycle. Joint Custody and Ignored Warnings (00:51:35) Kris explains the court's decision to grant joint custody despite evidence of abuse and ignored warnings. Career Milestone and Final Days with Miranda (00:52:40) Kris describes a career achievement, leaving Miranda with her ex, and her unease. The Double Homicide (00:54:59) Kris details the events leading to and including the murder of Michelle and Miranda by her ex-husband. Learning of Miranda's Death (01:03:26) Kris describes the moment she learned of her daughter's death and her overwhelming grief. Episode Closing and Community Invitation (01:06:08) Lucia closes the episode, previews part two, and invites listeners to join the community and share their stories. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Kris,"I could not get them to understand that he was so dangerous because then he started threatening my life, my family, my dogs, and Miranda." Kris, "He had chipped away every piece of my heart and I had nothing left. I had just become so numb." Kris, "He told me, 'One day you could be walking to work or walking back to your car, and I could blow your head off and you would never even know it.'" Kris, "I literally felt like my soul had left my body. I couldn't even—I didn't know what to do." Kris, "I hated, hated, hated walking away from her that day." RESOURCES: Connect with Kris: Speaker • Survivor • Advocate • Community Educator Miranda Faith Memorial Fund Miranda Faith Memorial Fund Facebook Page INSTAGRAM: @hkbarney Email: kris.barney@dartla.org Kris Barney is the Community Advocate with the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team in Ruston, Louisiana. A survivor of domestic violence and stalking, Kris lost her 3-year-old daughter, Miranda, to domestic homicide. She now speaks nationally on resilience, survivor support, and improving community responses to abuse. Kris has trained at major conferences, including the Conference on Crimes Against Women and the National Center on Victims of Crime. Brave Hearts Speak Community on Patreon - Join our creative community on Patreon with monthly gatherings and everyday bravery practices. COACH WITH LUCIA: COACH WITH LUCIA TAKING STOCK OF YOUR RELATIONSHIPS (A Free Reflection Guide) - Get it Here! 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 ...
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    1 Std. und 9 Min.
  • 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 Min.
  • 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 Min.
  • [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 Min.
  • 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 Std. und 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 Min.