Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse | Childhood Trauma, Shame, Trust Issues, Anger, Abandonment, Fear

Leslie Chermak - Christian Podcaster, Certified Life Coach & Speaker
  • 4.9 (16)
  • Self-Improvement

Are you tired of being stuck in patterns you can’t break? Are you overwhelmed with anger and want to be free from shame and the fear of rejection? Do you wish you could move forward, find peace, and have confidence to live in your purpose?  I am so thankful you're here! This podcast will help you overcome your past, live with peace, joy, and freedom and finally heal from childhood sexual abuse.  If you want the energy and clarity to actually live life and on purpose, you’re in the right place.  Hi, I'm Leslie-wife, mom of 4, christian speaker and trauma informed coach.  For years I allowed my past to control my decisions. I had deep rooted shame that somehow the childhood sexual abuse I experienced was my fault. The anxiety, depression and overwhelm came in waves.  I believed the lies that I couldn’t do anything right, was unlovable, unworthy, and not good enough. The fear of rejection controlled my life. I wanted to please others and took it personal when someone made  judgments other than what I believed.  I tried therapy and self-healing but the trauma still felt active. The triggers unknowingly would show up and send me back into a spiral or I would act out and create avoidance or dissociation with people and situations. I finally realized that if I was going to find freedom from my past, I would need to learn how to release the anger and shame I carried for so long.   I started seeking faith based coaches who helped me refrain from the lies I believed. I studied the bible and learned what God said about me. I meditated on His truth and I discovered a way to exchange the negative thoughts with the positive.  And now, I am here to help you do the same.  If you are ready to finally have relief from the heaviness of your past and feel peace, joy, freedom and confidence…. Experience safety in your relationships… Be able to let go of the past and forgive… Feel secure in who you are and how you show up...           - then this podcast is for you! Grab a notebook and let’s walk this journey together.  Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical and mental health advice. Guest view's do not necessarily reflect that of the host or podcast. 

  1. 15h ago

    43 | What Healing From Childhood Sexual Abuse Actually Looks Like

    Have you ever felt like you were making progress in your healing journey, only to find yourself triggered again? Maybe you've wondered, "Why am I still struggling?" or "I thought I was past this." If you've ever felt discouraged because healing hasn't looked the way you expected, this episode is for you. The truth is, healing isn't a straight line. It has ups and downs, breakthroughs and setbacks, moments of incredible growth, and seasons where God gently reveals another layer to heal. And that's not failure—that's part of the process. In this episode, Leslie shares a personal story from her own healing journey and offers encouragement for anyone who feels stuck or frustrated. You'll discover that healing isn't about pretending the past never happened or never experiencing another trigger. It's about learning to respond differently, embracing God's truth, and experiencing greater freedom one step at a time. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ Why healing isn't a linear journey ✔ How to recognize progress, even when it doesn't feel obvious ✔ The difference between healing and simply coping ✔ Why triggers don't mean you've failed ✔ How God restores your heart, mind, body, and spirit ✔ Practical ways to celebrate growth instead of striving for perfection Scripture Mentioned Philippians 1:6 "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Isaiah 43:19 "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"   Healing isn't becoming the person you were before the abuse. Healing is becoming the woman God created you to be. Every step toward truth, every healthy boundary, every moment you choose faith over fear is evidence that God is at work in your life. Celebrate your progress. Trust His process. Reflection Question Instead of asking, "Why am I not fully healed yet?" Ask yourself: "Where have I grown?" Take a few moments this week to write down three ways you've seen God working in your healing journey. No victory is too small to celebrate. Stay Connected I'm so grateful you're on this journey with me. If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs hope today. And stay connected through my email list because something special is coming soon! I'm preparing to launch a free faith-centered community for women healing from childhood sexual abuse—a place where you'll find encouragement, biblical truth, practical resources, and the support of women who understand your journey. JOIN THE INSIDER EMAIL LIST NOW: https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE  >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support.

    19 min

  2. 5d ago

    42 | The Lies Childhood Sexual Abuse Taught Me

    Have you ever felt like no matter how much healing work you've done, you still struggle with feelings of shame, unworthiness, fear, or self-doubt? One of the most devastating effects of childhood sexual abuse isn't just what happened to you—it's what you came to believe because it happened. Many survivors carry hidden beliefs such as: It was my fault. I'm damaged. I'm unlovable. I can't trust anyone. God must be disappointed in me. These lies often become the lens through which we view ourselves, our relationships, and even our relationship with God. In this episode, Leslie uncovers some of the most common lies childhood sexual abuse teaches survivors and shares the biblical truths that can begin setting you free. Healing begins when we stop agreeing with the lies and start embracing God's truth. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ Why abuse often creates false beliefs about identity ✔ How childhood trauma impacts the way we see ourselves ✔ The most common lies survivors carry into adulthood ✔ Biblical truths that challenge shame and self-blame ✔ How to begin renewing your mind through God's Word ✔ Why your identity is not defined by your trauma Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 139:14 Philippians 1: 6 John 10:10 Romans 8:38-39 Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Psalm 34:18   🎁 Identity in Christ Reflection Cards If you've struggled with shame, fear, self-doubt, or feelings of unworthiness, download Leslie's Identity in Christ Reflection Cards. Identity In Christ Cards-Teal : https://bit.ly/4vbb14k Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve : https://bit.ly/4w9eBLU These Scripture-based cards will help you replace the lies of trauma with God's truth and strengthen your identity in Christ. Coming Soon Something exciting is on the horizon. A free community for women healing from childhood sexual abuse is coming soon—a safe place for encouragement, biblical truth, healing, and connection with other women who understand your journey. Be sure to join the email list so you'll be the first to know when the doors open.  JOIN THE INSIDER LIST NOW: https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE  >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support.

    17 min

  3. Jun 23

    41 | Why Time and Willpower Haven't Fully Healed You From Childhood Sexual Abuse

    Have you ever wondered why you're still struggling with the effects of childhood sexual abuse, even after years of counseling, prayer, self-help books, or simply trying to move on? If so, you're not alone. Many survivors believe that with enough time, effort, or willpower, the pain should eventually disappear. Yet they still find themselves battling shame, anxiety, trust issues, triggers, people-pleasing, or a deep sense of feeling stuck. In this episode, Leslie explores why healing is often more complex than we realize and why your ongoing struggles do not mean you are failing. You'll learn how trauma impacts the nervous system, why unhealthy patterns can continue long after the abuse has ended, and how spiritual wounds can create a disconnect between knowing God's truth and truly believing it in your heart. Most importantly, you'll discover that healing isn't about trying harder—it's about healing deeper. Scripture Mentioned Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” 1 Peter 5:7: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”   Resources If you're ready to begin healing from childhood sexual abuse through a faith-based, whole-person approach, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and join our INSIDER email community for encouragement, resources, and upcoming opportunities for deeper support. ✨ Something exciting is coming soon—a free community designed specifically for women seeking healing, connection, and hope after childhood trauma. If this episode encouraged you, please: Follow the podcast Leave a review Share this episode with a friend who needs hope Join the email list for updates and future resources: https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE   🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  Identity In Christ Cards-Teal  Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

    13 min

  4. Jun 15

    40 | I See You: When Childhood Sexual Abuse Still Affects Your Life

    Have you ever wondered why childhood sexual abuse still affects your life years—or even decades—later? Maybe you've worked hard to move forward. You've built a family, a career, or a life that looks successful on the outside. Yet underneath the surface, you're still struggling with shame, fear, anxiety, people-pleasing, trust issues, anger, or feeling like you're never enough. If that's you, this episode is for you. In this relaunch episode of Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse, Leslie shares why she felt called to create a podcast specifically for women healing from childhood sexual abuse through Biblical wellness. Drawing from conversations with survivors and her own healing journey, she offers a message many women desperately need to hear: You are not broken. You are not alone. And healing is possible. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why childhood sexual abuse can still impact your life today Common trauma responses survivors experience How shame, fear, anger, and people-pleasing develop after trauma Why there is nothing "wrong" with you The role faith can play in healing childhood sexual abuse What to expect from future episodes of the podcast Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."   🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  Identity In Christ Cards-Teal  Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> I’ll meet you in your inbox on Fridays!   https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

    12 min

  5. May 20

    39 | Mother Wounds and Childhood Trauma for Women

    Did you grow up feeling emotionally unseen, unsafe, or unloved? In this deeply personal and healing episode, we’re talking about the mother wound — the emotional pain many women carry from childhood when they did not feel nurtured, comforted, protected, or emotionally connected to their mother. This episode is especially powerful for women healing from childhood trauma and childhood sexual abuse, because emotional neglect often creates deep struggles with identity, worthiness, trust, and receiving love. We’ll discuss: What the mother wound really is How emotional neglect impacts women later in life Why this is a root wound, not just a memory How childhood trauma affects identity and relationships The connection between the mother wound and shame Biblical encouragement for healing Practical steps to begin healing emotionally, spiritually, and physically If you’ve ever struggled with: feeling unworthy of love people pleasing fear of rejection perfectionism emotional numbness difficulty trusting others questioning your identity as a woman …this episode is for you. Healing begins when we stop minimizing our pain and start bringing it into the light. Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 34:18 Psalm 27:10 Isaiah 66:13 Journal Prompts When did I first begin feeling emotionally unseen? What lies did I begin believing about myself as a little girl? What would I say to my younger self today? What truth does God say about me? If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another woman who may need this message. You are not alone in your healing journey.   🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  Identity In Christ Cards-Teal  Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> I’ll meet you in your inbox on Fridays!   https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/   Music score: Kevin Manthei Music

    17 min

  6. May 12

    38 | Overcome Fear, Loneliness, and Despair from Childhood Sexual Abuse.

    The woman who has experienced a broken heart in many ways is a victim in the wake of another persons intentional abuse. This can leave feelings of fear, loneliness, and despair.  Today Leslie shares a simple solution and gives you 3 steps to begin your healing journey or continue on from Childhood Sexual Abuse.  🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  Identity In Christ Cards-Teal  Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/work-with-leslie/  for more support. >> I’ll meet you in your inbox on Fridays!   https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

    15 min

  7. Apr 30

    37 | Is God Real Even When I Have Lost Trust From the Trauma of Childhood Sexual Abuse?

    Is God real? This is a question that gets asked from every woman who has experienced childhood sexual abuse.   In this episode, Leslie touches a deep rooted subject. Shares her own experience of asking God for evidence that He hears her.   In Matthew 5:8 Jesus says, "Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God."  It can be tough when you feel fear, have anger, a lack of trust and so much shame.   But God gives safety to those who trust Him. You can experience peace and joy when you find freedom in Jesus Christ.  Leslie declares God for her life and encourages you to do the same:  God I want to see you. God I want to hear you. God I want to know you. God I want to follow hard after you. Therefore, I'm declaring today, God, you are good. You are good to me and God. You are good at being God. So I'm safe enough to trade my will for thy will, because I'm so confident you will God. Now today give me someone to forgive. Show me someone to bless. Show me evidence all around me of your goodness and faithfulness.    🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  Identity In Christ Cards-Teal  Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/work-with-leslie/  for more support. >> I’ll meet you in your inbox on Fridays!   https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

    21 min

  8. Apr 22

    36 | Healing the Body After Childhood Sexual Trauma: Does Nutrition Matter?

    Can what you eat impact your healing journey after childhood sexual abuse? In this episode of Hope in the Fire, we explore the connection between nutrition, emotional health, and trauma recovery. While food doesn’t heal trauma, it can support your body, improve mental clarity, and strengthen your ability to heal. In This Episode: How trauma affects the body and nervous system The connection between gut health and emotional healing My personal story with food and emotional eating A simple, sustainable approach to nutrition Biblical perspective on caring for your body 3 practical steps to start your health journey today Resources Mentioned: The Biblio Diet by Jordan Rubin 🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Email: hello@lesliechermak.com 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  Identity In Christ Cards-Teal  Identity In Christ Cards-Mauve >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme  for more support. >> I’ll meet you in your inbox on Fridays!   https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

    18 min
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4.9
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Are you tired of being stuck in patterns you can’t break? Are you overwhelmed with anger and want to be free from shame and the fear of rejection? Do you wish you could move forward, find peace, and have confidence to live in your purpose?  I am so thankful you're here! This podcast will help you overcome your past, live with peace, joy, and freedom and finally heal from childhood sexual abuse.  If you want the energy and clarity to actually live life and on purpose, you’re in the right place.  Hi, I'm Leslie-wife, mom of 4, christian speaker and trauma informed coach.  For years I allowed my past to control my decisions. I had deep rooted shame that somehow the childhood sexual abuse I experienced was my fault. The anxiety, depression and overwhelm came in waves.  I believed the lies that I couldn’t do anything right, was unlovable, unworthy, and not good enough. The fear of rejection controlled my life. I wanted to please others and took it personal when someone made  judgments other than what I believed.  I tried therapy and self-healing but the trauma still felt active. The triggers unknowingly would show up and send me back into a spiral or I would act out and create avoidance or dissociation with people and situations. I finally realized that if I was going to find freedom from my past, I would need to learn how to release the anger and shame I carried for so long.   I started seeking faith based coaches who helped me refrain from the lies I believed. I studied the bible and learned what God said about me. I meditated on His truth and I discovered a way to exchange the negative thoughts with the positive.  And now, I am here to help you do the same.  If you are ready to finally have relief from the heaviness of your past and feel peace, joy, freedom and confidence…. Experience safety in your relationships… Be able to let go of the past and forgive… Feel secure in who you are and how you show up...           - then this podcast is for you! Grab a notebook and let’s walk this journey together.  Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical and mental health advice. Guest view's do not necessarily reflect that of the host or podcast. 

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