If someone asked you to explain what a trauma bond is, would you be able to provide an example? Have you ever experienced a trauma bond? It happened to me many years ago and I will never forget its impact.

As I’ve been interviewing guests for my new podcast, Bent Not Broken: Starting Over After Abuse, several have mentioned the term “covert narcissist.” I’ve experienced narcissistic behavior before, but it made me wonder—what’s the difference between a narcissist and a covert one? The word “narcissist” has become more familiar in recent years as research sheds light on this complex personality disorder.

Life has a way of testing our strength when we least expect it. One moment, everything feels steady—and the next, we’re facing a storm that shakes the very foundation we stand on. But here’s the truth. Resilience isn’t about never falling apart. It’s about learning how to bend without breaking.

Why Early Recognition Matters

Suicide is often preventable. Most people who consider suicide exhibit signs before they act. Some of these signs are subtle while others are more obvious. Recognizing those signs and responding quickly can save a life. Asking the right questions, staying present, and connecting with someone who can help may be the most important thing you ever do.

Suicide is rarely caused by a single event. It often builds over time. This post explores the spectrum of suicidal thoughts, key risk factors, and life-saving protective factors. Understanding this process is a critical step toward compassion, prevention, and hope.

Last week was a tough one. More school shootings, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the murder of an Ukrainian immigrant, and the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks all weighed heavily. Thousands lost their lives that day in 2001, and countless more lives have been impacted since.

As summer fades into fall, we often feel more than just the change in weather. The transition between seasons can stir emotions, shift our energy, and even disrupt our mindset. Long, sunny days give way to earlier sunsets, cooler air, and a rhythm that feels both grounding and unfamiliar. For many, this shift brings a mix of excitement and melancholy—a reminder that change is inevitable, but also beautiful.

Here’s a News Flash!

I’ve been in a funk this week. There, I said it!

Yes, me—the person who’s always talking about self-esteem and positivity. The same person who usually comes across as cool, calm, and collected. The same person who truly understands what it means to battle one’s own mindset.

A Vegas encounter taught me that the most valuable things we bring home aren't souvenirs, but clarity about what we truly deserve in relationships after divorce.

As the summer comes to a close and the back-to-school buzz fills the air, many of us feel a shift. The long, leisurely days are fading, and routines are starting to settle back in. While this time of year may bring a sense of nostalgia, it also presents a unique opportunity. For many mothers and caregivers, the end of summer marks a transition—not just for the kids, but for yourself. As you send the kids off to school and the house quiets down, it’s the perfect moment to pause and reflect.

In today’s fast-paced world, personal growth is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Life coaching isn’t just for executives or high achievers anymore. It has become a vital support system for anyone navigating the complexities of modern life.

Have you ever wondered if your story matters?
I know I once thought this until I was convinced otherwise. So, if you think your story doesn’t matter, let me tell you—it does. And not just in a poetic or motivational sense. Statistically, spiritually, and socially, your story is a force for good in a noisy world.

Are you still working on your New Year’s resolutions?

If your goals feel like distant memories, you're not alone. Life happens. Plans shift, energy dips, and motivation gets buried under day-to-day responsibilities. But here’s the good news - it’s never too late to realign. In fact, mid-year is the perfect time for a reset.

Have you ever felt like you’re holding back, even when you know you’re meant for more? You’re not alone.

Life has a way of breaking us down, but it’s in those moments of fracture that true boldness is born. Deborah Griffiths’ story, as featured on BoldJourney, is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of embracing one’s true calling. Her journey from hardship to empowerment is exactly the kind of narrative we celebrate at Broken to Boldness—where every setback is a setup for a stronger comeback.

Known as the “People’s Pope,” Francis was a first in several areas: the first Pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit Pope, and the first to choose a name (Francis) that had not been used by any previous Pope.

Have you ever found yourself saying, “I wish I had done this sooner” or “It’s too late for me now”? I know I have had those thoughts!

We all face moments in our lives that bring us to our knees. Perhaps it’s from a divorce, burnout, job loss, grief, or simply feeling lost and disconnected from who we are.

Resentment is a heavy burden. It’s like carrying a bag of stones, each one representing a past hurt, betrayal, or disappointment. Over time, this weight drains our energy, keeps us stuck in the past, and prevents us from fully embracing our future.

We often hear about the importance of forgiving others, but we rarely discuss the significance of forgiving ourselves. The truth is, self-forgiveness is one of the most powerful and transformative acts of self-love.