Peace Over Pieces

Shelley spent over a decade surviving unimaginable abuse—psychological, physical, and sexual. For thirteen years, she endured what no one should have to. But today, Shelley is not just surviving—she's reclaiming her life.In this episode, she shares her powerful story of breaking free from the cycle of domestic violence and navigating nearly twenty years of healing. Shelley opens up about what it means to rebuild your identity after trauma and how she found strength through therapy, holistic practices, and the courage to speak out.Now, Shelley uses her voice to empower others walking similar paths. Her mission is to show that healing is not only possible—it's within reach. Through her story, she offers hope, solidarity, and a reminder that peace can come after pain.

Ghada Abdou spent most of her life surviving trauma after trauma. As a young woman and now a new mother, she's carried the heavy label of “survivor”—a label that too often made her a target for further harm. But today, Ghada is reclaiming her story. In this episode, she shares her journey of breaking free from the cycles of abuse and finding healing through creativity, motherhood, and self-compassion. Ghada opens up about what it means to navigate life after domestic violence and how writing, especially poetry, has become a lifeline and a tool for transformation. Her mission is to use her voice and her words to educate others about trauma, advocate for survivors, and show that healing is possible. Through her personal story and her growing body of written work, Ghada invites others to join her on a path of hope and renewal.Follow Ghada on Instagram at @writing.healss and explore her book The Thoughts of Trauma on Amazon.

Ronni and Jennie are sisters who weren't supposed to be friends. Growing up in a home with addiction, abuse, and untreated mental illness, they were forced into the roles of "hero" and "scapegoat," and pitted against each other. They came together as adults to repair their relationship, help each other heal, and break the cycle of trauma and abuse for their own children. In this episode, they share their story, including the abuse that occurred between them. They do so because many people who experience abuse in adult relationships were also abused as children—recognizing the connections between these experiences can be an important part of healing. Their mission is to combine their personal and professional backgrounds to raise awareness about childhood trauma—particularly the damage done to sibling relationships—in order to help others find healing. Ronni Tichenor is a Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the State University of New York-Polytechnic Institute, specializing in family studies. Jennie Weaver is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in family practice and mental health. For additional resources, visit www.ronniandjennie.com.

Hello, I'm Lauren. My journey has taken me through various industries – from hair styling to rocking out in bands, working in film, and even becoming a certified health coach. Born in Singapore, raised in Atlanta, and now living in Los Angeles for four years, some of the most memorable moments of my life unfolded during my music and film pursuits. One of the brightest highlights was when I had the incredible opportunity to play on the Heaven stage at the Masquerade during a battle of the bands in Atlanta, Georgia.Leading up to a recent incident, my journey was far from easy, but I believe in the power of storytelling to heal and help others. It's my desire to use my story as a catalyst for change and healing, particularly as an advocate for domestic violence awareness. The recent incident pushed me over the edge, compelling me to take a stand as I refused to stay silent any longer.Encountering many women and men who have endured similar ordeals, I've heard the heartbreaking stories of those who didn't make it out. In my case, I consider myself fortunate to be alive today. My abuser's threat to end my life still echoes in my memory, yet he roams the streets with minimal consequences, raising profound questions about justice.I once loved this man and hoped for a future together. In hindsight, I realize that the very person who claimed to worry about my safety stripped away that security, replacing it with fear. Sometimes, someone who appears wonderful on the surface can turn into your worst nightmare. I'm now extremely passionate about seeking justice for survivors and non-survivors alike, and I'm determined to shine a light on this pressing issue. If you or someone you know needs support, guidance, or simply a listening ear, connect with me on Instagram @thelaurentaylorb. Together, we can make a difference.

Welcome to "Peace Over Pieces," the podcast where we explore the transformative power of resilience through abuse. Today's guest is Sofia Souiri, a remarkable resilience coach and integrative psychotherapist. Sofia offers a safe and nurturing space for her clients to explore their deepest issues, with a specialized focus on trauma and abuse.But Sofia's journey to becoming a resilience coach is a unique one. Before discovering her true calling, she spent six years in the fast-paced world of finance. It was during this time that she realized her innate passion and extraordinary skills lie in helping people enhance their self-motivation and self-regulation, guiding them through the intricate process of change.Join us as we delve into Sofia's inspiring story and her unwavering commitment to empowering individuals to leverage their strengths, overcome adversity, and embark on their personal journeys of transformation. And that's not all—Sofia is not just a coach; she's also an influencer and a digital creator, using her platform to spread positivity and inspire change.Whether you're seeking to build resilience in your own life or simply looking for motivation and guidance, "Navigating Resilience" is the podcast for you. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tools to help you thrive in the face of life's challenges. Sofia Souiri is here to lead the way, and her story is one you won't want to miss.

Katrina Carter is CEO and founder of Incapable Bondage T.H.R.I.V.E. 501 (c(3) nonprofit organization. Katrina is a mental health coach and an advocate for trauma and domestic violence. Katrina Carter received her official mental health coaching certificate in 2023 and is currently continuing her journey to advocate for healing and wellness. Her mission is to empower trauma survivors through a holistic approach by providing long-term mental, emotional, financial, and physical resources so that they can thrive and reach their full potential. Katrina is a well-known speaker, podcaster and conference host, having spearheaded events such as "Denim and Bling" and "Mask Off" that promote healing. She also hosts Mindful Monday on Instagram where she tells her story to let other women know, "As domestic violence survivors and mental health warriors, we are H.E.A.L.IN.G. (which stands for Having Earned An Abundance of Life Interactions While Nourishing Greatness) while we T.H.R.I.V.E. (which stands for Trusting, Healing, Investing, Victorious, Empowered).While Katrina works full time as a mental health coach and a domestic violence advocate via her non-profit organization, Incapable Bondage. TH.R.I.V.E., Katrina also enjoys crafting and spending time with her granddaughter. She currently lives in Maryland with her two kids, husband, Terren, and granddaughter, Kirah Gabrielle.

Meet Lisa Precious, a devoted spiritual guide, coach, and entrepreneur on a mission to support others in their transformative spiritual journey. Her tools dissolve outdated beliefs, empowering individuals to embrace their true selves. Overcoming personal trauma fueled her passion to help others achieve their highest growth potential. Lisa's unique spiritual gifts provide unmatched guidance, unraveling obstacles, and revealing profound realizations. Embracing the challenge of understanding the abuse cycle led her to higher consciousness and God. Lisa believes every life experience is an opportunity for growth and encourages taking full responsibility for success. Through her brand, Smiley Blue, she spreads happiness and aligns people with nature's principles in an innovative, refreshing, and fun way. For Lisa, embracing our true essence brings peace to the world.

"My name is Amanda. I was born and raised in Ireland and moved to New York 11 years ago with my abuser, where I first noticed he wasn't the man I thought he was. Despite the terrible situation I was in, I fell in love with New York instantly and loved the freedom and anonymity it provided me, along with the joy of knowing there is never a boring day and always something to do.I'm an avid reader with a large book collection. I enjoy cooking and trying new restaurants with my friends. I love fashion and photography. Reality TV is my guilty pleasure. Being an auntie to my two nephews is the most joyous part of my life.I love podcasts, and two years ago, I decided to start my own podcast where I speak about my journey with domestic abuse (IPV and Me). I am a part of the Allstate Foundation Survivor Network, where I use my story to help spread awareness of DV (my goal in life). I can be found on social media @mandgoggs, where I post about my advocacy, books, fashion, and reality TV!"

"Hello there, I'm a patchwork artist with the business name, Patchwookmama, on Instagram. I began sewing in September 2021 as a distraction when I had really bad insomnia after leaving my abusive situation. I started with hand sewing, then bought a sewing machine, and finally today I bought a serger to experiment with! Feel free to frolick along with my Instagram to see my heart-work creations and where I vend at.My other callings are my sweet sonshine child, my pets, and singing, and loose free dancing with intention. My personal medicine of choice besides plants are music and movement."-Katie ️"

Meet Anna, a courageous individual who miraculously escaped her abuser after 6 years and has now become an expert on violence against women. She is also a certified mental health first aider and has worked with renowned non-profits such as Maitri India and CSSG. In recognition of her contribution to society, she was felicitated by SRL Diagnostics as a Woman of Substance in 2015. Anna is passionate about raising awareness on gender-based violence and mental health, and she works tirelessly to empower individuals, groups, and organizations to live their lives bravely and freely. Join us as Anna shares her inspiring story of resilience and hope on our podcast.

My name is Ayo, I live in Hampshire, Uk. I'm 37 (almost 38). I love to keep fit, working out, yoga and running. I write poetry about love/heartbreak and things in between. I love to dance and enjoying my freedom and second chance at life. I am now working on building a career so I can be successful, thrive and show my children that I came out the other side a success story. I hope they will be proud of me. The relationship lasted 16 years, last 9 with the abuse I talk about. Although overall the relationship had controlling aspects and a lot of emotional abuse, hugely affecting my confidence for a long time. After the main big arrest, he also had me arrested another two times for “breach of non-molestation order”, showing how relentless he was during this time.”

Dive into Chrissie's story facing domestic abuse and how she overcame what seemed an impossible journey.

Hi, my name is Kebz I'm a 29 year old woman living in the Easy Midlands, England. Here I tell my story of how falling into a domestically abusive relationship as a teenager led me to fall victim to predatory men as a young adult & my journey with what happened to me mentally afterward and how I learned to cope, survive and thrive as a woman heading into her 30s! I hope my story can be an inspiration to others. Instagram: @kxbznxwton

Hi..My names Loz and I am 35 year old, single mum of 3 beautiful beings. Let me take you on a journey of my experience with Abuse and how I normalised it from a young age.From growing up in toxicity to marrying into toxicity.I will take you on a journey of patterned behaviour that led me into the relationship and then my survival story of removing myself and my 3 children. Emotional abuse can go unnoticed and "tolerated" within relationships for years and I would like to share my story to create awareness for others. I'll see you inside the episode... Love, Loz #findmywild

19-year-old Steven Stakias is a sophomore nursing major and survivor of abuse. He shares his heart wrenching story of sexual assault and abuse at the hands of his fraternities president while attending York College of Pennsylvania. In this episode Steven will share his experience with his on going title IX investigation and healing his trauma.

Ashley Fossen recently went viral on TikTok sharing her past with an abusive relationship - and how everything looked "perfect" on social media, but actually was far from. She touches on the psychological feeling of why it's difficult to leave amidst the abuse, and how she is transitioning out of her situation. Ashley is currently in need of donations to move into her new house and start fresh - please donate to her by reaching out to her, or though the Peace Over Pieces website.

Today our special guest is Kristen Long. She is a 30-year-old stay at home mother of 3. Married to her husband for five years. Kristen attended Columbia College and received my associates degree in Human Services. On this podcast we dive into her incredible story of overcoming her previous abuser's attempted murder. We also touch on the physical/psychological effects after her abusive relationship, how her dog played a major role in getting through her dark days, and also the process of overcoming the legal aspect and process when you're transitioning out of an abusive relationship.

My fiancé Alex Dickneite and I sit down to discuss the topic of the outside perspective looking into abuse, dating someone from an abusive past, and the stereotypes and change of perception being someone who wasn't aware of what abuse entails.

Excited for this episode with a good friend of mine, Cristo Tabares.Born and raised in Flagstaff, Arizona, he was very active in sports, student council, and community organizations growing up. 23-years-old and raised by a single mother and my sister, Cristo graduated from Westminster with a double major, Psychology and Leadership studies. He is currently enrolled at Grand Canyon University getting my masters degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Today we dive into a similar background story to my childhood, being raised around parents with an abusive history - and how it shapes you as a child transitioning into adulthood.

Kelsie Mathews is a singer, actress, and wears many other hats in Hollywood. She also wears a domestic violence survivor title most proudly. She uses her platform to share her story to help others like her, bring awareness, but overall try to make a change.

Welcoming podcast guests, Lucy Cantley and Camille Rae - otherwise known as Calamity Jane Official on social media. This music duo based out of Nashville is Lead by violinist Lucy Cantley and complimented by the sultry vocals of Camille Rae, Together, they redefine genre with a fresh take on Alternative Country. Both recently going viral on TikTok and Instagram for posting a video of an abusive roommate. Camille reveals the story of her abusive roommate, and emphasizes that it's not always a significant other or authority figure that can trap you in an abusive cycle.

September Burton is a Fertility expert and abuse survivor, September started her career as a U.S. Navy personal chef to 4-star Admirals, stationed in Sicily, Italy. She also is the Founder and CEO of “4-months-to-Fertile”, working with couples and mothers struggling with primary or secondary infertility and is the organizer of the first ever Colorado Fertility Conference. She dives in her experience with abusive relationships, and how to cope later on in life & fall in love with who you are.

Founder of Peace Over Pieces, Clara Baldwin, shares her personal story of what inspired her to start the organization.

Alexandra Barry, founder of Siblings of Murdered Siblings Foundation - shares her story on becoming a survivor of losing her brother to homicide. She touches on her personal story, the court process, and her advice to those suffering from trauma.

Fitness coach and Instagram influencer, Breana Kelsi, shares the story of how she met her abuser where she worked and how she discovered he was cheating on her through a DM on Instagram. She shares tips about trauma, escaping, and how manipulating a narcissist can be.

Welcoming our first international guest Tracey dives into her story of how a manipulative 20-year marriage destroyed her mentally and emotionally. This is our first podcast that shows emotional abuse awareness is just as important as physical abuse.

Christian, college student, and motivational speaker Andre Lamont touches on the subjects of his experienced child abuse and how he recovered from rock bottom. (donate on peace-over-pieces.org)

21-year-old Raelynn Henson shares her heart-wrenching story on sexual abuse and how to overcome trauma. Donate now on peace-over-pieces.org

Abuse recovery coach and survivor Trish Lane speaks on sexual abuse within a relationship, narcissists, and what a victim can do to take the first step in escaping an abusive relationship. Donate now on peace-over-pieces.org.

Certified Life Coach and Domestic Abuse Survivor Elizabeth Rohaidy touches on the subjects of financial abuse, isolation, and the misconceptions that come with speaking to people about domestic abuse.

Non-profit domestic violence organization creating podcasts with victims- while providing donations, hotline information, and resources. Donate now on peace-over-pieces.org

Non-profit domestic violence organization creating podcasts with victims- while providing donations, hotline information, and resources