What happens after survival? In this deeply moving episode of Lessons in Discernment, I sit down with Elissa Swihart — survivor, advocate, storyteller, and creator of Dismissed True Stories, a podcast amplifying the voices of women silenced or erased by abuse. Elissa is also the founder of Tala’s Closet, a donation-based free store that offers practical support to women and children escaping violence. Her work is healing in action — proof that rebuilding after abuse is not only possible, but transformative.
Together, we explore:
The moment of clarity that sparks the realization: this isn’t love, this is control.
How discernment becomes a daily practice in the healing journey.
The revolutionary power of breaking silence and reclaiming your voice.
The story behind Tala’s Closet, and how community care can be a lifeline.
This conversation is an invitation to survivors everywhere: your story matters, your truth counts, and you are not alone.
Check out my Linktree to view my children's book on self-worth, and download a free digital resource for survivors, by survivors: linktr.ee/lessonsindiscernment
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