What if the abuse you experienced never left a bruise, but still changed everything about who you believed you were? In this episode of UNITED State of Women, Julie Deem sits down with Jen Lee, founder of Healing in Sharing, author of Why I Survived, and advocate for women healing from trauma. Jen courageously shares her personal story of surviving emotional and psychological abuse, the subtle manipulation that kept her trapped, and the long road toward reclaiming her identity. If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled to trust yourself, or felt invisible, this episode will remind you that your voice matters, your story has value, and healing is always possible. What You Will Learn: How emotional abuse often develops slowly, making it difficult to recognize. Why trusting your intuition can become one of your greatest sources of protection. How manipulation, isolation, and codependency can quietly reshape your identity. Why survivors often stay longer than others expect—and why compassion matters. How unresolved childhood trauma can influence adult relationships. The role journaling and storytelling play in emotional healing. Why finding the right community can accelerate your healing journey. How to begin rebuilding confidence after experiencing emotional abuse. Why healing isn't linear and looks different for every survivor. How sharing your story can become part of your purpose. FAQ: Why is it so difficult to leave an emotionally abusive relationship? Emotional abuse often creates trauma bonds, dependency, fear, and confusion over time. Many survivors experience cycles of affection and manipulation that make leaving incredibly difficult. The decision to leave is often one of the most dangerous and emotionally complex parts of the relationship. How do you begin healing after emotional abuse? Healing often begins by acknowledging what happened, seeking safe support, working with qualified professionals when needed, practicing self-compassion, journaling, building healthy relationships, and allowing yourself time to process the experience without rushing recovery. What is Healing in Sharing? Healing in Sharing is an organization founded by Jen Lee that creates safe spaces for women to heal through storytelling, community, speaking events, journals, and one-on-one listening sessions. Its mission is to help women feel seen, heard, and empowered on their healing journey. Connect with Jen Lee https://www.thehealinginsharing.com/ Learn more about the latest tool for dynamic professionals in the self-improvement industry, LyfQuest. A mobile CRM platform that's uniquely made for you! Learn more at: https://lyfquest.io/ Instagram: USW Podcast @uswkokomo Kalena James @yesitskalenajames Julie Deem @indymompreneur -------------------------------------------------- USW Kokomo Website Production by The Business Podcast Editor
