THE BREAKTHROUGH: Finding courage and self-love after 26 years of abuse

Just a heads up: This episode contains discussions of emotional, verbal, psychological and sexual abuse. Some may find it upsetting. We encourage you to take care of yourself.

What does it take to walk away from a life you’ve known for decades—especially when that life has been shaped by abuse? 

Today, we’re exploring the moment of breakthrough: the courageous decision to leave a 26-year abusive marriage and step into the unknown. Too often, society tells us it’s too late to start over, but real freedom can begin when you have the courage to do so. Freedom knows no age.

Lisa welcomes Stephanie Strickland, author, motivational speaker, and survivor of intimate partner violence, who shares her powerful journey of finding the courage to leave, heal, and rebuild her life after more than two decades of abusive marriage. Together, Lisa and Stephanie discuss the invisible weight of shame, the masks we wear to survive, and the transformative power of finally telling your truth—not just to others, but to yourself.

This episode is about reclaiming your story, breaking free from the past, and proving that peace and wholeness are possible, no matter when you begin. Lisa and Stephanie call on listeners to support those making brave choices, reminding us all: it’s never too late for your breakthrough.

“From Now On…I will always advocate for myself. From now on, I will always use my voice. I will never downplay myself again. From now on, I will advocate for other women, and from now on, I will practice self-love.”

About Stephanie Strickland:

Stephanie Strickland is the author of Finding Peace Within, a motivational speaker, and a survivor of intimate partner violence and abusive marriage. Stephanie Strickland passionately spends her time advocating for victims and survivors of abuse. Stephanie believes that by openly sharing her life, removing her mask, and walking in her purpose, she is showing women that you don’t have to live in the shame of your past.

Follow Stephanie @iamsdstrickland on Instagram. Go to stephaniedstrickland.com to learn more about her and order her book Finding Peace Within.

From Now On is produced by LA PHILLIPS MEDIA. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

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If today’s conversation resonated with you and you are seeking more support in your own healing journey, here are some resources below:

• If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call 800.656.HOPE (4673)

• If you or someone you know is being trafficked, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Text 233733 (befree).

• PAVE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating a world free from sexual violence and building communities to support survivors.

• Speak Out, Act, Reclaim (SOAR) is dedicated to providing a safe and empowering space for survivors of sex trafficking to reclaim their stories and stand up for themselves and each other.