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That's Where I'm At

That's Where I'm At

By: Laura Richards
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 Welcome to "That's Where I'm At" with your host, Laura Richards! Join Laura Richards, a survivor of narcissistic abuse with 33 years experience, as she guides you through the journey of identifying, healing from, and thriving after emotional and psychological abuse. With a mission to raise awareness, foster emotional recovery, and empower you to love yourself, Laura brings honesty, compassion, and a touch of humor to every episode. Dive into deep, meaningful conversations, tackle tough topics, and uncover moments of hope and healing. Our supportive community is here for you, offering insights, support, and a shared path to recovery and empowerment. Subscribe now and be part of a transformative journey that's messy, real, and truly inspiring!2023 Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • EP 78: Healing Hidden Trauma and Finding Your Voice with Christina L. Woods

    EP 78: Healing Hidden Trauma and Finding Your Voice with Christina L. Woods
    Apr 22 2026
    In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura speaks with Christina L. Woods, an internationally recognized Clinical Hypnotherapist, Rapid Transformational Therapist®, Certified High Performance Coach, Reiki Master, author, and founder of Wise Woods Hypnotherapy, Inc. Christina helps women unlock their worth, release limiting beliefs, and align with their authentic selves through her signature Wise Woods Method™, which blends hypnotherapy, coaching, and energy healing. Christina shares her powerful personal journey from a 30-year corporate career to discovering hypnotherapy after her marriage collapsed and her health declined. Drawing from both her professional background and lived experience, she opens up about buried childhood trauma, including sexual abuse she didn't acknowledge until age 50, and how it shaped patterns of people-pleasing, overachievement, and self-sabotage. Together, Laura and Christina explore the power of subconscious beliefs, the role of various healing modalities, and the importance of self-compassion, boundaries, and breaking shame. This episode is a deeply honest and transformative conversation about reclaiming your identity, trusting your inner wisdom, and creating a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and fully your own. Key Topics & Timestamps Guest Introduction & Overview (00:01:33) Laura introduces Christina Woods, her background, and previews the conversation about childhood trauma and healing. Christina's Career Shift & Hypnotherapy Introduction (00:03:17) Christina shares her transition from corporate life to healing work and initial misconceptions about hypnotherapy. Childhood Patterns & Overachievement (00:04:10) Christina discusses how childhood survival strategies led to people-pleasing, overachievement, and stress in adulthood. Therapy & Hypnotherapy Experience (00:05:06) Christina describes her journey into therapy, discovering hypnotherapy, and how it quickly revealed and rewired limiting beliefs. How Beliefs Shape Reality (00:07:04) Explains how subconscious beliefs drive behavior and how hypnotherapy helps rewire them for positive change. Challenging Internal Narratives (00:08:02) Laura and Christina discuss questioning negative self-talk and the importance of forming new, positive neural pathways. Learning, Failing, and Growth (00:11:13) They talk about the value of trying new things, embracing failure, and how the brain grows through new experiences. Impact of Narcissistic Relationships (00:12:27) Laura shares how being with a narcissist stifled her ability to try and fail, leading to self-silencing. Seeking Evidence for Beliefs (00:13:06) Christina explains how people seek evidence to support their strongest beliefs, even if those beliefs are negative or untrue. Paradigm Shifts & Changing Self-Dialogue (00:14:21) Discussion on how changing internal dialogue can shift reality and self-perception. Questioning Thoughts & Ownership (00:15:14) Laura emphasizes that not all thoughts are true and the importance of identifying whose voice is influencing self-perception. Unlearning Old Patterns After Divorce (00:19:26) Laura reflects on the process of unlearning automatic behaviors and discovering her authentic self post-divorce. Making New Thoughts Familiar (00:20:26) Christina explains the brain's resistance to change and the need to make new, positive thoughts familiar through repetition. Childhood Trauma's Impact on Adulthood (00:22:29) Christina shares how buried childhood sexual abuse shaped her self-worth, relationships, and coping mechanisms. The Relief of Facing Trauma (00:27:10) Christina describes the relief and self-compassion that came from acknowledging and processing her trauma. Breaking Shame Through Community (00:30:18) Laura discusses how sharing stories and connecting with others helps break the isolation of shame. Universal Patterns of People-Pleasing (00:32:14) They discuss how many women develop people-pleasing tendencies due to childhood roles and expectations. Subconscious Mind & Hypnotherapy (00:32:53) Christina explains the power of the subconscious mind and how hypnotherapy accesses and rewires it. Healing Modalities After Divorce (00:34:43) Christina lists the various healing methods she used post-divorce, including EMDR, therapy, and energy healing. Journaling as a Healing Tool (00:37:44) Both discuss the power of journaling for processing emotions, tracking growth, and expressing anger safely. Boundaries, Anger, and Self-Abandonment (00:41:40) They explore how anger signals unmet needs, the importance of boundaries, and the tendency to self-abandon. Closing Encouragement & Resources (00:44:55) Christina offers final encouragement that change is possible, and Laura shares where listeners can find Christina and support the podcast. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Christina, 'I have learned things about myself that I believed to be true that aren't even true—beliefs like I'm not good enough and I'm ...
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    47 mins
  • EP 77: Shattering Silence with Michelle Jewsbury: How One Woman's Story Became a Global Movement for Survivors

    EP 77: Shattering Silence with Michelle Jewsbury: How One Woman's Story Became a Global Movement for Survivors
    Apr 15 2026
    In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura interviews Michelle Jewsbury, founder and CEO of Unsilenced Voices, internationally recognized speaker, coach, and survivor of domestic abuse. Michelle is known for helping individuals transform their personal stories into powerful narratives, using her own journey of breaking the cycle of abuse to inspire others to create impact and purpose from their pain. Michelle shares her harrowing experience with a violent, controlling partner, detailing the early red flags, escalating abuse, and her eventual escape. She opens up about how she transformed her trauma into advocacy through writing, performing a solo play, and launching global programs that support survivors in West Africa. As the driving force behind Unsilenced Voices, Michelle now works with individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations to harness the power of storytelling for healing and growth. Throughout the conversation, Michelle emphasizes the importance of speaking out, seeking support, and finding community. This episode delivers a powerful message of hope, resilience, and empowerment for survivors ready to reclaim their voice and rewrite their story. Key Topics & Timestamps Michelle's Background & Abusive Relationship (00:03:31) Michelle shares her upbringing, move to Hollywood, and meeting her abusive partner. Early Red Flags & Control (00:04:49) Michelle describes early signs of control and manipulation in her relationship. Hope After Abuse & Unlearning Patterns (00:06:08) Michelle and Laura discuss hope for healthy relationships and the need to unlearn toxic patterns. First Incident of Physical Violence (00:07:27) Michelle recounts the first act of physical violence and her initial reaction. Documenting Her Story & Founding UnSilenced Voices (00:07:58) Michelle explains how documenting her experience led to a play, memoir, and founding her nonprofit. Suing Her Abuser & Regaining Her Voice (00:08:54) Michelle details suing her abuser for financial and emotional damages and the empowerment it brought. The Importance of Speaking Out (00:10:12) Laura and Michelle discuss the stigma of talking about abuse and the importance of breaking silence. Leaving an Abusive Relationship (00:11:34) Both share the difficulty and commonality of multiple attempts to leave abusive partners. Escalation of Abuse & Final Break (00:12:24) Michelle describes escalating violence, infidelity, and what finally gave her the strength to leave. Therapy & Finding Her Voice (00:14:24) Laura and Michelle discuss therapy's role in healing and reclaiming self-worth. Life After Abuse & Small Wins (00:16:10) They reflect on the freedom and small victories experienced after leaving abuse. Recognizing Emotional Abuse (00:19:03) Laura discusses realizing emotional abuse through journaling and family patterns. Who Michelle Helps & Her Programs (00:19:59) Michelle explains her nonprofit and for-profit work, including programs in Sierra Leone and coaching survivors. Why Sierra Leone? (00:24:10) Michelle shares how she was called to work in Africa and the origins of her nonprofit's international focus. The Power of Sharing Your Story (00:26:46) Michelle encourages listeners to share their stories to help others and create change. Healing Modalities & Performing Her Story (00:28:30) Michelle describes how writing, performing, and speaking publicly contributed to her healing. Dealing with Naysayers & Victim Blaming (00:30:33) They discuss negative reactions, victim blaming, and the importance of supportive communities. Support Systems & Cultural Barriers (00:32:41) Michelle talks about losing friends during abuse, the need for supportive people, and cultural challenges in addressing abuse. Encouragement & Final Advice (00:37:03) Michelle and Laura offer encouragement to keep going, referencing "just keep swimming" from Finding Nemo. Powerful Quotes from the Episode 'Michelle, 'I started to really accept that this happened, but it doesn't have to define me.' 'Michelle, 'What I did get from this is my voice back. So when I got my voice back after four years of a lawsuit, it made me feel empowered that I could accomplish all of this.' 'Michelle, 'When you're out of those situations, the prosperity that you actually get, not just financially but for your soul, is incredible.' 'Michelle, 'Our stories are not just for us. Our stories are to help other people.' 'Michelle, 'If you feel trapped, if you are stuck, if you've escaped and you're still in this turmoil of why didn't it work, I want you to know to just keep swimming, keep putting one foot in front of the other. Don't give up. Do not give up because it will get better, I promise you that.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlauraYOU'RE NOT CRAZY ebook: GET IT HEREMARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HEREJOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: https://www.skool.com/nice-guy-recovery-community-1517 FOLLOW ...
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    40 mins
  • EP 76: Building Your Emotional Home with Alyssa Scarano

    EP 76: Building Your Emotional Home with Alyssa Scarano
    Apr 8 2026
    In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura speaks with Alyssa Scarano, LPC, NCC, therapist and Founder and Clinical Director of The Collective Therapy & Wellness. Known for her empathetic and compassionate approach, Alyssa views her work as a profound privilege—supporting clients through their most vulnerable experiences while helping them heal from childhood trauma, break generational patterns, and build meaningful, authentic relationships rooted in self-compassion. Alyssa shares how personal loss in her twenties led her to pursue therapy and ultimately specialize in generational trauma and family dynamics. Together, she and Laura explore how childhood emotional suppression shapes adult behavior, the importance of inner child work, and how self-love becomes the foundation for healthy boundaries. Using a powerful "home" metaphor, Alyssa illustrates boundary-setting in a relatable way and encourages listeners to embrace discomfort as a necessary part of healing. She also offers a free 21-day email series designed to help build self-worth. Key Topics & Timestamps Episode Overview & Guest Introduction (00:01:29) Laura previews the conversation with Alyssa about generational patterns, boundaries, and self-love. Alyssa's Healing Journey (00:02:58) Alyssa shares her personal background, family dynamics, and how therapy empowered her. Family Silence and Childhood Trauma (00:03:26) Discussion about growing up in families that suppress emotions and the impact on children. Internalizing Trauma as a Child (00:06:19) Exploring how children internalize family trauma and blame themselves. Alyssa's Path to Therapy Work (00:07:16) Alyssa describes her transition from personal healing to becoming a family therapist. Inner Child Work Explained (00:09:26) Alyssa explains inner child work, early social learning, and how childhood beliefs shape adulthood. Boundaries and Self-Love Connection (00:11:46) Laura and Alyssa discuss how boundaries are rooted in self-love and healing childhood wounds. Survival Mode Parenting & Boundaries (00:13:06) Exploring how generational survival mode affects parenting and boundary-setting. External vs. Internal Boundaries (00:14:10) Alyssa explains the difference between visible boundaries and internal boundaries around self-worth. Impact of Narcissistic Abuse and Healing (00:15:04) Laura shares her experience with narcissistic abuse and the process of unraveling negative self-beliefs. How Trauma Gets Stuck (00:16:32) Alyssa explains trauma as a combination of vulnerability, acute events, and lack of support. Importance of Emotional Support (00:17:51) Discussion on how lack of support after trauma makes healing harder and the need for safe spaces. Therapy Process: Genogram & Family Mapping (00:18:58) Alyssa describes her intake process using genograms to map family patterns and roles. Negative Side of Healing & Family Reactions (00:20:24) Laura discusses how healing can disrupt family dynamics and lead to uncomfortable reactions. Discomfort and Growth in Healing (00:21:59) Alyssa explains why discomfort is part of growth and why families may resist change. Embracing All Emotions (00:23:11) Alyssa emphasizes the importance of feeling all emotions, including anger, for empowerment and boundary-setting. Therapy as a Safe Space (00:26:06) Laura and Alyssa discuss the value of therapy as a safe, validating environment for self-expression. Therapist's Emotional Labor (00:28:30) Alyssa reflects on the emotional demands of being a therapist and the risk of vicarious trauma. Healthy Relationships and Community (00:30:11) Laura shares how healing attracts healthier relationships and changes her social circle. Tips for Listeners: Embracing Discomfort & Self-Compassion (00:30:53) Alyssa offers advice on tolerating discomfort, managing expectations, and giving oneself grace during healing. Boundaries Metaphor: Home as Self (00:33:13) Alyssa introduces a metaphor comparing boundaries to managing your home and deciding who gets access. Self-Love as the Foundation (00:37:34) Alyssa and Laura discuss how self-love is the foundation for breaking patterns and setting boundaries. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Alyssa, "I did my own healing, went to therapy, and found the words and the space to explore what I was feeling, and that was so empowering for me because it changed my life." Alyssa, "You're always kind of working with that inner child that was not seen and not validated, and it's powerful to offer someone an experience they never had." Alyssa, "We have the internal boundary of being able to separate someone else's responses from how you view yourself and your own self-worth—it's like putting up a veil and not letting someone else's behavior pierce it." Alyssa, "We belong to ourselves long before we belong to anyone else." Alyssa, "The reason why those patterns and behaviors formed in the first place was out of a desire for connection and love, so it begins with deciding you are ...
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    41 mins
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