A Survivor's Story: Michelle Jewsbury on Overcoming Domestic Violence EP | 106

Life's Checkmark: Personal Stories of Personal Growth Navigating Life Together Not Alone

A Survivor's Story: Michelle Jewsbury on Overcoming Domestic Violence EP | 106

In this episode of Life's Checkmark, we welcome the inspiring Michelle Jewsbury, a survivor of domestic violence who transformed her traumatic experiences into a beacon of hope and activism. Moving to Hollywood with dreams of acting, Michelle found herself trapped in an abusive relationship, a harrowing chapter she not only survived but used as a catalyst for profound change. She shares her powerful journey of escape, healing, and advocacy.

Michelle's story doesn't end with survival; it extends to acts of empowerment. Encouraged by her therapist, she documented her ordeal in her book "But I Love Him", and later, performed a riveting solo play that captivated audiences at the Hollywood Fringe Festival and Whitefire Solofest. Going beyond storytelling, Michelle founded Unsilenced Voices, a nonprofit addressing domestic violence and sexual exploitation in places like Sierra Leone and Rwanda. Her commitment also led to a four-city tour in the USA, focusing on human trafficking hotspots.

Michelle's motivational message is clear: transparency, honesty, and the refusal to stay silent can break cycles of abuse and open doors to healing. Her work, including her Legacy Camp, where she aids others in turning their stories into books and public speaking engagements, is a testament to her unwavering dedication to helping others reclaim their voices and lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Turning trauma into a message of hope and activism.

• The critical role of transparency and honesty in healing.

• Creating impactful projects from personal experiences.

• The power of storytelling in breaking cycles of abuse.

• Importance of community and support for survivors.

Connect with Michelle Jewsbury:

Website ⁠https://www.unsilencedvoices.org⁠

Website: https://www.michellejewsbury.com

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00:00 Founded Unsilenced Voices in West Africa, expanded globally.

04:45 Denied abuse, internalized blame, broke free eventually.

09:59 Encouraging men to speak about sexual trauma.

13:28 Initial anger transformed into forgiveness after struggle.

16:22 Supportive community key to overcoming adversity.

19:15 Encouraging openness and vulnerability for self-improvement.

21:37 Acceptance of change in societal viewpoints over time.

26:03 Support, education, resources for human trafficking survivors.

29:05 Volunteered, worked, and started organization in Africa.

31:40 Failure is a stepping stone to success.