From Pain to Purpose: Healing Childhood Trauma Through Faith

Childhood trauma—a term that carries weight, emotion, and stories that are often left untold. In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we delve into this deeply personal and transformative topic, exploring how the past can impact mental, emotional, and even physical health well into adulthood.

Joining us is Julie Rebboah, a Christian communicator and Room to Bloom podcast host. With her unique blend of personal experience, academic knowledge, and a faith-driven approach, Julie offers profound insights into how we can navigate the lasting effects of adverse childhood experiences. From toxic stress to generational cycles, this episode provides a roadmap to resilience and healing.

Discover how faith, practical steps, and community support can lead to renewal and purpose. Julie’s story of overcoming a childhood filled with chaos and her commitment to helping others is a testament to the transformative power of healing.

But this conversation is more than an exploration of pain—it’s about hope. It’s about taking that first step, partnering with God, and unlocking the abundant life He has for you. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking encouragement, this episode offers a wellspring of wisdom and comfort.

Julie is the survivor of childhood trauma that occured from a parent’s undiagnosed mental illness. Because Julie has lived experience, education in Mental Health and Wellness, and a strong Christian faith, she is uniquely positioned to help you overcome inner pain and reach your God-given potential. Her mission is to equip, inspire, and transform lives through faith-based mental health and wellness strategies. She does this through speaking engagements, her Room to Bloom podcast, and coaching programs.

Julie’s Linktree to social media and more. 

Julie’s gift for you: 3 Powerful Ways Faith Can Increase Your Well-being After Childhood Trauma

👉 Tune in now and hear Julie’s incredible journey, learn practical strategies for healing, and find the encouragement you need to thrive.

🌟 Don’t miss this transformative episode—stream it on your favorite platform or visit our website. Your journey to healing starts here.

Honoring a Life of Service: National Day of Mourning for President Jimmy Carter

Today, we pause as a nation to honor the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter, a man whose impact extended far beyond the walls of the White House. Known for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to service, President Carter leaves behind a profound legacy that continues to inspire countless individuals around the world. On this National Day of Mourning, we reflect on his accomplishments outside the political arena and the enduring strength of his faith.

A Champion for Humanity

While many remember Jimmy Carter as the 39th President of the United States, his post-presidency years showcased his remarkable dedication to humanity. Carter became a global advocate for peace, human rights, and public health through his work with The Carter Center, which he co-founded with his wife, Rosalynn, in 1982. The Center’s mission to “wage peace, fight disease, and build hope” has led to significant strides in eradicating diseases like Guinea worm, improving election integrity worldwide, and promoting mental health awareness.

One of Carter’s most notable accomplishments was the near eradication of Guinea worm disease, a parasitic infection that once afflicted millions. His relentless efforts and innovative approaches reduced the number of cases to fewer than a handful annually, marking one of the greatest public health victories in modern history.

A Man of Faith in Action

Jimmy Carter’s faith was not confined to words or sermons; it was lived through his actions. A devout Christian, Carter’s beliefs were the cornerstone of his life and work. He taught Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for decades, drawing visitors from around the world. His teachings emphasized love, humility, and justice, values he exemplified in every aspect of his life.

Carter’s faith also informed his commitment to Habitat for Humanity. He and Rosalynn famously donned hard hats and picked up hammers to build homes for those in need, turning their physical labor into a symbol of solidarity and hope. Their annual Carter Work Project mobilized volunteers worldwide and transformed the lives of countless families.

An Inspiring Legacy

Beyond his tangible accomplishments, Carter inspired through his character. In a world often marked by division and discord, he stood as a beacon of integrity and kindness. His ability to listen, empathize, and act with purpose reminds us that leadership is not about power but about service to others.

Carter’s words often reflected his deeply rooted hope: “We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.” This sentiment captures his ability to navigate challenges with grace while remaining steadfast in his values.

A Call to Reflect and Carry Forward

As we mourn the passing of President Jimmy Carter, let us also celebrate the life he led and the legacy he left. His unwavering faith, tireless service, and profound compassion are a testament to what it means to live with purpose. Today, let us honor his memory not only with solemn reflection but by embodying the values he cherished—service, love, and justice.

In our grief, we find gratitude for the lessons he taught us. May his life inspire us to build a better world, one act of kindness at a time.

Breaking the Stigma: Finding Hope and Healing in the Midst of Negative Emotions

We’ve all been there—caught in a whirlwind of emotions like stress, anxiety, and self-doubt. But what if you could transform those negative feelings into something empowering? In this deeply moving episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Sue Bowles, a master certified life coach and award-winning author, who has turned her personal struggles into a message of hope and healing.

Sue’s journey from trauma to thriving is both inspiring and eye-opening. She’s not only learned to navigate her own emotional ups and downs but has become a powerful advocate for mental health. If you’ve ever wondered how to break free from the grip of anxiety or tackle those negative thoughts head-on, this episode is for you.

Why You Should Listen:

In this candid conversation, Sue shares:

  • The power of vulnerability and how it’s key to healing.
  • The practice of gratitude and how it can immediately interrupt anxiety.
  • Why seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness—especially in faith communities.
  • How to help others who are struggling without judgment, and the role of service in healing.

Sue also opens up about her personal battles with childhood trauma, an eating disorder, and even suicidal thoughts, offering real, raw insights into how she found healing—and how you can too. It’s not a quick fix, but Sue’s philosophy of taking “one step ahead” is the key to navigating your own journey.

Don’t Miss Out:

This episode is filled with wisdom, hope, and practical tools you can start using today. Whether you’re looking for ways to manage negative emotions or simply want to feel inspired by someone who has walked through the fire and emerged stronger, Sue’s message will leave you motivated and empowered.

Sue Bowles is a survivor turned thriver as an author, speaker, and Master Certified Life Coach. Having done the hard work of healing from a childhood rape, an eating disorder, other sexual assaults, and considering suicide, Sue now defines the effect the life-altering events have on her. The events no longer define Sue; she defines them.
“You only have to be a step ahead to help the person behind you” is the bedrock to the value Sue brings. She founded My Step Ahead and is the “Chief Instigator” behind the new Dare to Believe Movement, whose purpose is to nurture others to ‘dare to believe that you matter,’ knowing that nothing changes until that bedrock belief is solidified.
Whether speaking on a podcast, a stage, or one-on-one, Sue’s enthusiasm is contagious, shining the light of hope wherever the listener needs.
Sue’s award-winning first book, “This Much I Know…The Space Between” is available on Amazon and Kindle.

Call to Action:

Ready to break the stigma surrounding mental health and start your healing journey? Listen to the full episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse now!

And for more resources, visit SueBowles.com to grab her free PDF, “Quieting Your Inner Karen,” and discover how to silence that inner critic for good.

Embracing a New Attitude in 2025: A Fresh Start for Your Mind and Body

There’s no better time to hit the reset button and cultivate a new attitude toward life than at the beginning of the year. Each new year brings the promise of growth, opportunities, and transformation. But this year, let’s go beyond setting fleeting resolutions and focus on fostering a sustainable mindset and lifestyle that promotes both mental and physical health.

To help you kickstart this journey, consider embarking on the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! — a practical, faith-based guide designed to lay the foundation for lasting change.

Why Attitude Matters

Your attitude shapes your reality. It influences how you approach challenges, interact with others, and ultimately, how you experience life. A positive attitude doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties but rather facing them with resilience, gratitude, and a solution-oriented mindset.

This year, make your new attitude stick by starting with the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! It’s not just a self-help tool; it’s a roadmap to integrate faith into every area of your life while building a stronger spiritual, mental, and emotional foundation.

Cultivating Mental Health in 2025

Mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Here’s how you can prioritize it:

  1. Practice Gratitude Daily
    The 15-Day Challenge helps you develop daily gratitude practices that shift your focus from scarcity to abundance. Each day of the challenge provides prompts to guide your reflections.
  2. Set Boundaries
    Boundary-setting is easier with clear, actionable steps. The challenge includes practical exercises to help you identify what matters most and set boundaries accordingly.
  3. Engage in Mindfulness Practices
    Discover faith-aligned mindfulness techniques that combine spiritual practices with emotional grounding.
  4. Seek Support When Needed
    The challenge emphasizes the importance of community, encouraging you to seek help when needed and surround yourself with uplifting individuals.

Boosting Physical Health in 2025

Your body and mind are deeply interconnected, and taking care of your physical health enhances your overall well-being.

  1. Move Your Body Regularly
    The 15-Day Challenge offers tips to incorporate enjoyable, faith-inspired movement into your routine to energize your body and spirit.
  2. Nourish with Purpose
    Explore ways to practice mindful eating, aligned with your values, to improve your physical health without overwhelm.
  3. Prioritize Rest and Recovery
    The challenge encourages you to embrace rest as a vital part of the growth process.
  4. Try Something New
    With prompts to push you out of your comfort zone, the 15-Day Challenge is designed to spark growth and joy through novelty.

The Power of a Fresh Perspective

Adopting a new attitude in 2025 is not about perfection; it’s about progress. The 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! can be your starting point to cultivate this new perspective, offering tools to align your spiritual, mental, and physical health.

Limited-Time Offer: Begin your transformation today! For a limited time, the Kindle edition of 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! is available at 67% off — just $1.99 until January 8th. Take advantage of this special offer to make 2025 your most transformative year yet.

This year, let’s commit to growth, finding joy in the journey, and becoming the best version of ourselves. Here’s to a transformative 2025 filled with vitality, resilience, and positivity!

Keys For 2025: Perseverance, Faith, and Vision

As we close the year, Thrive by The Rising Muse delivers an unforgettable conversation with an extraordinary guest, Mark V. Smith—renowned TEDx speaker, podcast host, and trainer. Known as the “Curator of a Bigger Vision Within,” Mark takes us through his powerful journey of transformation, resilience, and purpose.

In this episode, Mark shares candid moments from his path, including how an unexpected job loss ignited a fire within him to start a podcast that has now inspired countless lives. From overcoming challenges to finding purpose in the midst of uncertainty, his story serves as a masterclass in perseverance and the power of trusting the process.

To follow Mark’s journey check his website. You can listen to The Process on wdjyfm.com Tuesdays at 9am EST.

Hosts Naty and Veda join Mark in reflecting on their shared experiences in podcasting, the lessons of 2024, and their visions for the future. Together, they unpack the importance of faith, community, and embracing life’s ups and downs to make a lasting impact.

This is more than a conversation—it’s a celebration of resilience, a call to action for living with purpose, and a heartwarming reminder that every challenge carries the seeds of growth.

Don’t miss this deeply inspiring episode! Tune in to hear stories that will move you, insights that will empower you, and a vision that will leave you motivated to tackle 2025 head-on.

Creating Intentional New Year Goals Rooted in Faith

As the year draws to a close, many of us begin thinking about resolutions and goals for the new year. It’s a time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we hope to go. However, as believers, our goals don’t just stem from personal desires—they are an opportunity to align our plans with God’s purpose for our lives.

Instead of focusing solely on external achievements, we can create Christ-centered goals that promote spiritual growth, strengthen our relationships, and honor God in every area of our lives. Let’s explore how to set intentional New Year goals rooted in faith.

1. Begin with Prayer

Before setting any goals, start with prayer. Ask God to guide you in reflecting on the past year and discerning His will for the year ahead. Invite Him into your planning process so your goals are aligned with His plans.

Prayer Prompts:

  • What lessons did God teach me this year?
  • Where is God calling me to grow?
  • How can I better serve Him and others?

Scriptural Reminder:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5)

2. Reflect on Your Spiritual Journey

As you set goals, take time to evaluate your walk with Christ. Are there areas where you’d like to grow deeper in your faith? Perhaps you want to spend more time in prayer, read through the Bible, or become more active in serving others.

Consider goals that nurture your relationship with God, such as:

  • Establishing a daily quiet time.
  • Memorizing Scripture.
  • Joining a small group or Bible study.
  • Journaling prayers and answers.

Scriptural Reminder:
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)

3. Set Goals That Glorify God

When creating goals, focus on how they can bring glory to God. Whether your goals are personal, professional, or relational, they should reflect your desire to honor Him.

Examples of Christ-centered goals:

  • Building healthier habits to honor your body as God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
  • Strengthening your marriage or family relationships through intentional time together.
  • Using your talents and skills to serve in your church or community.
  • Managing your finances according to biblical principles.

Scriptural Reminder:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

4. Be Specific and Measurable

God is a God of order and intentionality, and our goals should reflect that. Vague goals can leave us feeling overwhelmed, but specific, measurable objectives give us direction.

For example:

  • Instead of “pray more,” set a goal to “pray for 15 minutes each morning.”
  • Instead of “read the Bible,” aim to “read through the New Testament by June.”
  • Instead of “serve others,” plan to “volunteer monthly at a local shelter.”

Scriptural Reminder:
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)

5. Balance Personal Growth with Serving Others

While self-improvement is valuable, our ultimate calling is to love and serve others. Consider setting goals that prioritize generosity, kindness, and community.

Ideas for outward-focused goals:

  • Start mentoring someone in your church or workplace.
  • Organize a monthly outreach with friends or family.
  • Commit to praying for specific individuals or causes each week.

Scriptural Reminder:
“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4)

6. Trust God with the Outcome

While it’s important to plan, remember that God’s plans are always greater than our own. Some goals may unfold differently than expected, and that’s okay. Trusting Him means surrendering our goals to His will and being open to His redirection.

Scriptural Reminder:
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

7. Stay Accountable and Celebrate Progress

Share your goals with trusted friends or family members who can encourage and hold you accountable. Celebrate the small victories along the way, remembering that every step of growth is worth acknowledging.

Encouragement Tip: Keep a journal to track how God works through your goals. Looking back on His faithfulness will inspire gratitude and perseverance.

Final Thoughts: A Year with Purpose

As you step into the new year, let your goals reflect your faith and trust in God. Whether big or small, each intentional step can bring you closer to Him and help you live out His purpose for your life.

Closing Scripture:
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

Let’s approach this new year with hope, purpose, and a heart ready to follow where God leads.

Happy 2025!

The Grinch, Redemption, and the Power of Christmas Kindness

One of my favorite movies is The Grinch There are several versions of this movie. My favorite one is Jim Carrey’s version. However, the little one in my house prefers the 2018 animated version. Needless to say, we have seen it multiple times since this holiday season started. It has me thinking about how much deeper meaning this movie has and how it shows the true meaning of Christmas.

This is a special town where everyone, regardless of their challenges, is happy and united. And then there’s the Grinch. The Grinch doesn’t hate Christmas for it’s meaning, he hates it because he’s in pain. Think about it, if you look at all the contraptions inside his house, he seems to be very smart, creative and ingenious. It is not like he couldn’t be a productive member of society. He chose to isolate out of his own feelings of rejection, abandonment and sadness

The Grinch is an unhappy, grouchy character, one that we can identify in our daily lives. But if you look beyond the surface, why is he so angry and grouchy?

Childhood trauma:

Let’s start with the fact that his parents abandoned him in an orphanage. He doesn’t like seeing others happy because all he has experienced is despair. His meanness is just a façade and a way to keep people away. Since he was abandoned, he has come to the conclusion that he’s unlovable. We have all heard how “hurt people, hurt people”; the Grinch is the perfect example of this.

Loneliness

He’s all alone, yes do to his own making, but it’s partially because he doesn’t want to be vulnerable with his feelings. His hatred of the holiday was nothing but jealousy of the people of Whoville and their ability to connect with others. Think about all the scenes where he looks through the windows of Whoville, he’s not angry, he’s sad, almost in the verge of tears.

However, the Grinch is not a soulless unaffectionate being. He has his dog Max whom he loves and for who he takes good care of. The way he let the mammoth sleep in the bed with him. How he lets Fred go when his family came to get him (although that was a double edge sword as he felt abandoned again)

When Dr. Seus talks about the Grinch having a heart two sizes too small, it was a metaphor to his affections not a “biological” heart.

Kindness always wins at the end. It was the kindness of Cindy Lou and realizing that Christmas was way more than decorations and presents that changes the heart of the Grinch. This is a lesson to us all. On a day like today where people have commercialize this holiday so much that we have lost sight of what Christmas is really about. It’s about Jesus’s birth, but what Jesus came to earth to bring for us: salvation, forgiveness and love.

Redemption

The grinch shows how we really should go about forgiveness. He admts his wrong. He made amends by returning what he stole. He left expecting nothing from those who he wrong. He then receives forgiveness when Cindy Lou invites him over for dinner.

Have you thought about the grinches in your life and why are they the way they are? No, we’re not responsible for other people’s behaviors but we can be the catalyst of change by being kind with every interaction you have with them. Will they change, who knows? But you may be the seed that let’s their hearts grow? His last words in the movie, where that Cindy Lou’s kindness changed his life. Whose life could we be changing with just an act of kindness.

Finding Joy and Gratitude During the Holidays

The holiday season often evokes images of joy, laughter, and togetherness, but for many, it also stirs up feelings of longing and bittersweet memories. How do you navigate the holidays when your heart feels heavy with the absence of a loved one?

In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda dive into a candid conversation about coping with grief during the holidays, celebrating cherished memories, and creating new traditions. Sharing personal stories, reflections, and practical tips, they offer a thoughtful roadmap to help you embrace both the joy and complexity of the season.

From honoring loved ones through special rituals to finding gratitude in the present, Naty and Veda discuss how to keep the true spirit of the holidays alive. Their lighthearted banter and deep emotional honesty make this episode as comforting as a warm cup of cocoa on a snowy evening.

This is more than a podcast episode—it’s an invitation to reflect, heal, and thrive. Whether you’re seeking ways to honor those you miss, build new traditions, or simply find peace amidst the chaos, this conversation is for you.

So grab your favorite holiday beverage, settle in, and let’s navigate this season together.

🎙 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.
Let’s thrive through the bittersweet moments of the holidays together.

Being Loving, Kind, and Merciful: Does Not Mean I’m a Doormat

As followers of Christ, we are called to embody love, kindness, and mercy. These attributes reflect God’s character and demonstrate His grace to the world. However, those with a tender heart may face challenges, including being taken for granted or used. How can we balance showing mercy with guarding our hearts?

The Call to Love, Kindness, and Mercy

Jesus set the ultimate example of love, kindness, and mercy. In Matthew 5:7, He says, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Reflecting on the call to clothe ourselves with compassion, Colossians 3:12-14 reminds us: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another… And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Living this way reflects Christ’s love and draws others to Him. Yet, we must also walk in wisdom, as Jesus instructs in Matthew 10:16: “Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”

Avoiding Being Taken for Granted

  1. Set Healthy Boundaries: Loving others doesn’t mean allowing them to misuse your kindness. Jesus Himself set boundaries, withdrawing to pray and rest when needed (Luke 5:16). He invites us to find rest for our souls in Him, saying in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
  2. Discern Motives: Pray for discernment to recognize when someone genuinely needs help versus taking advantage of your kindness. Philippians 1:9-10 says, “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best.”
  3. Speak the Truth in Love: When necessary, confront those who misuse your kindness with gentleness and respect. Ephesians 4:15 urges us to speak the truth in love, ensuring we build others up. As Proverbs 27:6 states, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
  4. Rely on God’s Strength: Acts of mercy must flow from God’s love, not human approval. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Depend on God’s Spirit, as Zechariah 4:6 reminds us, “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”

Trusting God as Your Defender

Even when others misunderstand or misuse your kindness, take heart in knowing that God sees your heart. Psalm 62:6 declares, “Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.” Rest in His promise from Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Trust Him to vindicate you and provide the strength to continue loving others.

In all things, let Jesus’ words in John 13:34-35 guide you: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” As you navigate the balance of kindness and boundaries, let your actions glorify God, reflect His love, and steward the gifts He has entrusted to you.

The Secret to Thriving in Parenting and Relationships

Parenting is one of life’s most rewarding experiences—but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the toughest. Sleepless nights, constant compromises, and the challenge of balancing a relationship while raising little humans can feel overwhelming. Add the complexities of a blended family, and it’s no surprise relationships can feel stretched to their limits.

In this heartfelt and empowering episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Reesa Morala to uncover the unfiltered realities of parenting and relationships. Reesa, a Gottman-trained therapist and mom of two, shares invaluable insights on navigating the rocky terrain of parenthood without losing yourself—or your partner—along the way.

You’ll hear about:

  • How parenting impacts personal identity: Reesa explains why many parents feel like they’ve lost themselves and how to reconnect with who you are outside of being “mom” or “dad.”
  • Blended family dynamics: Building bonds with new family members can be tricky. Reesa shares why patience and boundaries are key to creating harmony.
  • Communication strategies that actually work: Learn simple tools to stop fights before they escalate and foster understanding instead of resentment.
  • The power of humor and joy: Even in the chaos of parenting, moments of laughter can bring you and your partner closer together.
  • Prioritizing self-care: Discover why taking care of yourself is one of the best gifts you can give your family.

Reesa’s warm, relatable style will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to tackle the highs and lows of parenting with renewed hope. Whether you’re navigating life as a parent in a blended family or simply looking to strengthen your relationship, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real talk you won’t want to miss.

Reesa Morala is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Reesa is the owner of Embrace Renewal Therapy & Wellness Collective and host of The Real Family Eats. She is dedicated to being a parenting ally, helping parents create thriving families by prioritizing their relationships. Her passion is fueled by her overcoming generational trauma in her own life and navigating the tough transition into parenthood. She provides couples therapy, couples workshops, and parenting workshops in her private practice. In her videocast, she speaks with parents dishing on the real parenting struggle while dishing on their favorite recipes. Both ventures aim to help parents feel less alone in the hard times and support their success as a family. To reach Reesa just click here.

Ready to prioritize your relationship while thriving as a parent? Tune in to this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse to learn how. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation transforming families everywhere.