The Survivors Voice

Episode 32, Ellie’s Story

Ellie opens up about a part of her past she has rarely spoken aloud: the betrayal, bullying, and violence she endured at the hands of a high school friend in Bulgaria. What began as a seemingly innocent friendship turned into years of harassment, culminating in a brutal attack that left Ellie scarred emotionally long after the physical pain faded.
After moving to the United States in her early 20s, Ellie built a new life. Becoming a mother, earning her CPA license, and recently starting her own accounting business. But beneath the successes, the trauma of her teenage years lingered until she made the courageous choice to pursue therapy. Through counseling, learning boundaries, and trusting her instincts, Ellie has begun to release fear, reclaim her confidence, and step into new opportunities she once thought impossible.
Her story is raw, brave, and an important reminder that bullying and violence can leave lifelong marks. But healing, growth, and freedom are possible.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Ellie Tashkova
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of bullying, physical assault, and emotional trauma. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· Growing up in Bulgaria and moving to the U.S. in her 20s.· Navigating marriage, divorce, and single motherhood.· The devastating impact of a teenage friendship turned abusive.· Years of harassment, bullying, and the night of a violent attack.· Finding courage to enter therapy and break the silence.· Learning boundaries, trusting her gut, and starting fresh with her own business.
Key Takeaways:· Time alone doesn’t heal trauma. Intentional healing does.· Therapy and safe friendships can be life-changing in recovery.· Boundaries are vital for protection and freedom.· Trusting your instincts can protect you from further harm.· Speaking your story releases its power and brings hope.
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Ellie’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.
New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5-star rating, and a review.
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited byKrystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Special Thanks toDan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductionsBowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 31, Jessica’s Story

Join us today as Jessica shares her incredible journey of survival, faith, and rediscovery. From enduring abuse and neglect in childhood, to navigating betrayal and brokenness in her first marriage, Jessica’s path has been marked by pain but also by resilience. Her years of ministry work in Thailand shaped her perspective on faith, culture, and perseverance. Even as she faced isolation, spiritual abuse, and the heavy responsibility of raising children overseas.
After making the courageous decision to leave an unhealthy marriage, Jessica returned to the U.S., determined to create a better future for herself and her children. Through faith, somatic healing, and learning to challenge fear with truth, Jessica has embraced freedom, found her voice, and stepped into her calling as both a healer and a survivor.
Her story is a powerful reminder that God’s heart is for His daughters, healing is possible, and freedom is worth fighting for.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Jessica Atwell
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of childhood abuse, marital betrayal, spiritual abuse, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· Growing up in a home marked by abuse, fear, and survival· Discovering faith in Jesus at 21 and entering full-time ministry· Serving eight years in Thailand while raising children in a foreign culture· Facing betrayal, spiritual neglect, and emotional isolation in marriage· Making the courageous choice to leave an abusive situation· Returning home to begin a new chapter of healing, freedom, and self-discovery
Key Takeaways:· Abuse and neglect are never God’s design—He calls His children to freedom· Healing is possible through truth, vulnerability, and intentional practices· Emotional intelligence and faith help break cycles of fear and people-pleasing· Words have the power to shape our healing and future· God can redeem broken stories into testimonies of strength and hope
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Jessica’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.
New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5-star rating, and a review.
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited byKrystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Special Thanks toDan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductionsBowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 30, Peggy’s Story

Join us today as Peggy shares her remarkable story of resilience, faith, and transformation. From losing her father at just six years old and navigating the challenges of growing up with an alcoholic mother, Peggy carried wounds of abandonment, grief, and responsibility from a young age. Later, she endured a painful and abusive marriage before finding healing through counseling, faith, and intentional recovery programs.
Today, Peggy speaks openly about the journey from brokenness to wholeness, the power of forgiveness, and the hope that comes from never giving up. Her story is a reminder that healing is possible, new beginnings are real, and it’s never too late to find love and peace.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Peggy Paullin-Neal
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of childhood trauma, alcoholism, suicide attempts, divorce, and abuse. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· Growing up in the shadow of her father’s death and her mother’s alcoholism· Carrying adult responsibilities as a child and feeling abandoned· Surviving manipulation and abuse within marriage· Finding faith in Jesus during her teenage years· Healing through counseling, forgiveness practices, and programs like Untying the Knots of the Heart· Discovering that it’s never too late for love, joy, and a new chapter
Key Takeaways:· Healing is a lifelong process and happens in layers· Forgiveness releases the power others hold over you· Faith provides hope and strength when life feels unbearable· Community, vulnerability, and trusted friends are vital for recovery· It’s never too late to experience healthy love and new beginnings
Resources Mentioned:· The Complete Guide to Divorce Recovery by Jim Smoke & Carol Smokehttps://a.co/d/g7zZMsf· Untying the Knots of the Heart programhttps://untyingknots.org/ 
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Peggy’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.
New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5-star rating, and a review.
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited byKrystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Special Thanks toDan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductionsBowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 29, Susan’s Story

Susan’s journey is one of heartbreak, resilience, and redemption. From childhood sexual abuse and the trauma of rape to surviving domestic violence and emotional abuse, Susan has endured hardships that could have easily silenced her. Instead, she chose to rise.
Now approaching 60, Susan reflects on how her past shaped her strength and how faith, therapy, and community helped her heal. She opens up about the dangers of poverty, the impact of trauma left unspoken, and the importance of listening to your instincts, whether as a survivor or as a parent protecting your child.
Today, Susan is not only a successful entrepreneur and loving wife, mother, and grandmother, but also a mentor who speaks boldly against pornography, human trafficking, and the cycles of abuse that plague communities. Her testimony is both a warning and an encouragement: you are not alone, and there is hope beyond the pain.
Your Host: Angie SedorOur Guest: Susan Schuler
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of sexual abuse, rape, domestic violence, and human trafficking. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect: · Growing up in poverty and recognizing its hidden toll on families · The lasting effects of childhood sexual abuse and rape · Escaping domestic violence and rebuilding life from nothing · The importance of therapy and community support in healing · Finding love, safety, and joy later in life · Why pornography fuels human trafficking and abuse—and why change must happen
Key Takeaways: · Poverty often creates cycles of stress that lead to abuse—but those cycles can be broken · Healing begins with listening to your inner voice and seeking help · A good trauma therapist can be life-changing · Success isn’t material—it’s about love, community, and resilience · Your story can bring hope and healing to others
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Susan’s journey encouraged you, share this episode to remind others that healing, hope, and new beginnings are always possible.
New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5-star rating, and a review.
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited byKrystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks toDan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductionsBowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 27, Kathleen's story

Kathleen returns to The Survivor’s Voice to share a powerful testimony of redemption, faith, and a marriage transformed by God’s mercy. What began as a whirlwind romance quickly descended into a cycle of substance abuse, unmet expectations, and violence. After years of dysfunction and a painful separation, Kathleen was ready to walk away for good—but God had a different plan.
Through divine encounters, faithful prayer, and years of counseling, Kathleen and her husband Rick not only reconciled but rebuilt a relationship rooted in Christ. Nearly three decades after their lowest point, they now serve other couples through biblical mentorship and live out a restored love story that could only be authored by God.
Your Host: Angie SedorOur Guest: Kathleen Giannette
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of domestic violence, alcoholism, drug use, childhood trauma, and religious content. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· How a blind date led to a life Kathleen never expected· The early red flags in her marriage—and why she ignored them· A heartbreaking moment that changed everything for their family· Rick’s radical encounter with God after years of addiction· The unexpected church testimony that started it all· Tools and truths that helped them break the “crazy cycle”
Key Takeaways:· God does not waste a heartache· Redemption is possible, even when it seems hopeless· Healing takes participation, not passivity· You cannot out-sin the power of God’s restoration· Respect and love must both be intentional in marriage
Resources Mentioned:· Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichshttps://a.co/d/ddRigAA 
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com 
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Kathleen’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to stories of resilience and grace.
New episodes every Tuesday.
YouTube: Please like this video, subscribe to our channel, and leave us a comment.Podcasts: Follow our show and leave a 5-star review.
Do you have a story to share?Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited byKrystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks to· Dan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductions· Bowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 26, Debbie’s Story

When a drunk driver crossed the freeway and struck Debbie head-on at 140 mph, it changed her life in an instant. The accident should have killed her, but it didn’t. In this powerful episode, Debbie shares how surviving that crash led to a deep battle with fear, and how faith, hope, and baby steps brought her out of it.
Though she experienced short-term memory loss and intense post-traumatic stress, Debbie refused to let fear win. From panic attacks on bridges to facing her triggers with courage, she recounts the emotional and spiritual journey of healing that followed. Now, at 65, Debbie is helping other women through her ministry, Grandmas to the Rescue, offering practical support and hope to moms who feel like they're drowning.
Her story is a reminder that fear is a liar. And that with faith and support, we can reclaim our lives.
Your Host: Angie SedorOur Guest: Debbie Loffman
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussion of a fatal car accident, trauma, panic attacks, and fear. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect: · Debbie’s near-death experience in a head-on freeway collision · The emotional aftermath and the slow spread of fear · How she reclaimed her courage—one bridge, one panic attack at a time · Her practical advice on facing fear and creating new neural pathways · Founding Grandmas to the Rescue to support overwhelmed moms · How her faith, community, and scripture helped her heal
Key Takeaways: · Fear grows if you don’t face it—but it can be broken · You can create new pathways in your brain and overcome trauma · Community and spiritual mentorship can anchor you during healing · Scripture can be a lifeline—find one and cling to it · Give back: you may become someone else’s lifeline one day
Resources Mentioned:Grandmas to the RescueIf you are in Kootenai County and feel overwhelmed as a mom, you can reach Debbie and her team for help.debbieloffman@gmail.com
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Debbie’s story inspired you, please share this episode to remind others that fear doesn’t have the final word.
New episodes every Tuesday
Follow, rate 5 stars, and leave a review
Have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited byKrystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks toDan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductionsBowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 25, Dustin and Chelsea's story

Chelsea and Dustin share their powerful journey of grief, love, and faith as they recount losing five close family members in just three years. From the devastating loss of Chelsea’s father and brother to the sudden passing of both of Dustin’s parents in a tragic motorcycle accident, followed shortly by the death of Chelsea’s sister-in-law, their story is one of unimaginable sorrow met with unshakable strength.
Despite the heartbreak, Chelsea and Dustin found purpose through their faith, deep community ties, and the support of their church and each other. Chelsea’s professional background as a therapist and Dustin’s reflections on divine timing reveal how grief can transform a family, and how showing up for others during their darkest moments can bring healing.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guests: Chelsea & Dustin Brouse
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of sudden loss, grief, traumatic death, addiction, and end-of-life care. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect: · The impact of losing four family members in under three years · Dustin’s parents’ tragic motorcycle accident and the moments before · Chelsea’s role in helping her niece and nephew navigate losing both parents · The unexpected passing of Chelsea’s brother from a heart attack · How their faith, therapy, and church community helped carry them · Reflections on divine timing, presence, and healing through service
Key Takeaways: · You don’t move on from grief—you move forward with it · Faith can anchor you when everything else falls apart · Preparation and mental health investment before crisis matters · Showing up for others can offer healing in your own pain · Presence and intentional time with loved ones is never wasted
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor: Safe Harbor Supporting survivors with compassion and care. https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Stay Connected www.thesurvivorsvoice.net @TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Chelsea and Dustin’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5 star review, and a review.
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by Krystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks to Dan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductions Bowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 24, Anna's story

In this rare and redemptive episode, Anna shares her powerful story of transformation, forgiveness, and faith. Raised in a blended family marked by violence, fear, and hidden generational abuse, Anna later discovered she had been sexually abused by the monsters she moved into her home. Some memories only accessible after her father’s death. Despite this pain, she chose to care for both her aging parents in her own home, even before fully uncovering the depth of her trauma.
Through emotional intelligence training, biblical counseling, and transformational ministry work (including leading Untying the Knots of the Heart) Anna found healing and purpose. Her story is not just about surviving trauma but choosing to reclaim peace and offer grace, even to those who hurt her. This full-circle journey reminds us that redemption is possible, even when it seems unimaginable.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Anna Cheney
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of childhood physical and sexual abuse, emotional trauma, family violence, and caregiving for abusive parents. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· Anna describes growing up in a home filled with fear, violence, and hidden incest.· The shocking moment she realized she too had been sexually abused.· Why she chose to become a caregiver for both of her abusive parents.· Her healing journey through transformational coaching and faith-based programs.· How she found purpose in helping others emotionally and spiritually recover.· The importance of tools like Untying the Knots of the Heart and emotional intelligence work.
Key Takeaways:· Forgiveness can coexist with deep hurt—it doesn’t excuse the harm, but it frees the soul.· Healing doesn’t happen all at once—it comes through layers, tools, and community.· God’s grace can meet people even in their final moments.· Choosing transformation over bitterness is a radical act of strength.· Restoration is possible—even in relationships thought to be beyond repair.
A Special Thank You to Our SponsorSafe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and care.https://safeharborforfreedom.com
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Anna’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5 star rating, and write a review.
Do you have a story to share?Contact us at: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by:  Krystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks to:  Dan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductions  Bowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 23, Kenna' story

In this powerful episode, Kenna bravely recounts the unimaginable. Her mother attempted to take her life when she was just 10 years old. From surviving that trauma to navigating foster care, complex family dynamics, and a faith tested by manipulation, Kenna shares how she found her voice and began healing. Now a wedding photographer, writer, and soon-to-be mother herself, she opens up about the generational pain she’s determined to break, and the tools that are helping her do it. With honesty, insight, and hope, Kenna shows us what it means to rewrite the ending of your story.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: McKenna HardeeFind Kenna on IG @MckennareneehFind Kenna on TikTok @Kennareneeharper
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of childhood trauma, addiction, suicide, and attempted filicide. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· Kenna shares the harrowing story of surviving her mother’s attempt to take her life at age 10.· The psychological toll of growing up with two addicted parents.· Life in foster care and navigating the legal system as a child witness.· Wrestling with forgiveness, no-contact boundaries, and the misuse of faith for manipulation.· The emotional complexity of pregnancy while healing from maternal trauma.· How TikTok and storytelling have become tools in Kenna’s healing journey.· Her favorite trauma recovery tool: EMDR therapy.
Key Takeaways: · Healing is layered and non-linear; but possible. · EMDR therapy can rewire traumatic memories for lasting relief. · Forgiveness doesn’t require continued relationships, especially with unsafe people. · Boundaries are not betrayal; they’re protection. · Breaking generational trauma is a powerful act of love. · Faith and therapy together can be life-saving.
Kenna’s Recommended books: 1. Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud 2. Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
A Special Thank You to Our SponsorSafe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and carehttps://safeharborforfreedom.com/ 
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Kenna’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.
New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow, rate 5 stars, and leave a review.
Do you have a story to share? Contact us at: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by· Krystina Elder | YouTube: @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks to· Dan Wise | YouTube: @NorthIdahoPodcastProductions· Bowman Carter | YouTube: @BowmanCarterMusic | Spotify: Bowman Carter

Episode 22, Gabriel's story

Gabe is a husband, father, nonprofit leader, and senior behavioral health advisor. But his path to healing didn’t come easily. In this powerful episode, Gabe shares how a privileged childhood masked a growing storm within. One that eventually led to twelve years of alcoholism, seizures, hospital stays, and even to the brink of death.
He opens up about the intervention that saved his life, the treatment center that wasn’t what it seemed, and the long road of recovery that followed. Now over eleven years sober, Gabe is using his voice to break down the very barriers that almost kept him from getting help. Through his nonprofit IMPACT and his work at Paradigm Treatment, he’s helping families navigate the behavioral health system with clarity and compassion.
Your Host: Angie SedorOur Guest: Gabriel MinchowFind Garbriel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gminchowIMPACT
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of alcoholism, seizures due to withdrawal, and unsafe treatment practices. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect· A firsthand account of long-term alcoholism and recovery.· A glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of behavioral health treatment.· Why access to care is so difficult and how Gabe is trying to change that.· The tools Gabe used to stay sober for over a decade.
Key Takeaways· Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Success on the outside doesn’t mean peace on the inside.· Treatment programs vary widely in quality, and informed decisions matter.· Recovery is possible with structure, support, and willingness.· If you’re breathing, there’s still hope.
A Special Thank You to Our SponsorSafe HarborSupporting survivors with compassion and careContact: [Insert contact info here]
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Gabe’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength. New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5-star rating, and write a review.
Do you have a story to share?Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere that your story matters.
Produced and Edited byKrystina Elder | (YouTube) @ElderHouseMedia
Special Thanks toDan Wise | (YouTube) @NorthIdahoPodcastProductionsBowman Carter | (YouTube) @BowmanCarterMusic (Spotify) Bowman Carter on Spotify