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. 2d ago

    49 | Why Am I Still Struggling? The First Step Toward Healing From Childhood Trauma

    Why am I still struggling when what happened was so long ago? If you have ever asked yourself this question, you are not alone. Maybe you've tried to move on. Maybe you've prayed, gone to counseling, read the books, or told yourself that you should be over what happened by now. But deep down, you still struggle with shame, self-worth, trusting others, difficult relationships, anger, or patterns you can't seem to break. In this episode, I share part of my personal story as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and talk about something I wish I had understood earlier in my healing journey: Coming to faith and beginning a relationship with Jesus was life-changing—but there were still wounds from my past that needed healing. Healing can happen in stages. Sometimes we don't realize how much our childhood experiences are still affecting us until something triggers an old memory, emotion, or pattern. And when that happens, we may wonder, “Why am I still struggling?” In this episode, we're talking about one of the first steps toward healing: acknowledgment. Acknowledgment doesn't mean living in the past or allowing your trauma to define you. It means giving yourself permission to honestly recognize what happened, how it affected you, and where you may still need healing. You will learn: Why childhood sexual abuse and trauma can still affect your life years later Why feeling stuck doesn't mean you're failing How shame can keep us from facing what happened Why healing is often a journey that happens in stages How acknowledging your story can become the first step toward freedom Why you don't have to carry your pain alone Friend, what happened to you was not your fault. You are not weak because you still struggle. And you are not stuck forever. God is not afraid of your story. He sees you, He loves you, and He can meet you in the places that still hurt. This Week's Reflection Take some quiet time and ask yourself: “God, what areas of my life have I been avoiding because of my past?” You don't have to have all the answers today. Simply be willing to take one honest step forward. Join My Insider List If this episode encouraged you, I would love to invite you to join my Insider List. You'll receive encouragement, podcast updates, and resources to support you on your healing journey. You'll also be the first to know when the doors open to my upcoming free community for women seeking healing, hope, and connection. Join the Insider List: https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter And if you found hope in today's episode, please follow the podcast and share this episode with another woman who may need to hear: You are not alone, and healing is possible. Scriptures Mentioned John 8:32 Psalm 34:18   >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

  2. Aug 21

    48 | Do You Feel Stuck In Patterns You Can’t Break? 3 Steps to set you free.

    Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Why do I keep doing this?” Maybe you keep falling into the same relationship patterns. Maybe you struggle with anger, people-pleasing, shutting down, negative self-talk, fear of rejection, or difficulty trusting others. You know you want to change. You've prayed about it. Maybe you've been to therapy, read the books, listened to podcasts, and tried to use willpower to break the cycle. And yet…you still find yourself repeating the same patterns. What if you're not broken? In this episode, we're talking about why childhood trauma can create patterns that follow us into adulthood—and why recognizing those patterns is not a reason to shame yourself. It's an opportunity to begin healing. I'll share part of my own story and what I've learned about recognizing the difference between who I am and what I learned to do to survive. You'll discover: Why some unhealthy patterns may have started as survival responses Why recognizing a pattern doesn't mean you're failing How trauma can influence the way we think, respond, and relate to others Why healing requires more than willpower How renewing your mind can help create new patterns Why healing happens in stages rather than all at once How to begin responding differently when an old pattern shows up Why your past does not have to determine your future How God can lead you toward greater peace, joy, freedom, confidence, and energy   Scripture Romans 12:2 — “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”   >> Join my Insider List!   https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE >> Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >> Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

  3. Aug 14

    47 | You Are Not Your Shame: Healing From Childhood Sexual Abuse Through Christ

    Why do we still struggle with shame even after we've accepted God's forgiveness? For many women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, shame feels like a constant companion. It whispers lies that you're damaged, unworthy, and beyond repair. But those lies were never spoken by God. In today's episode, Leslie shares part of her own healing journey and explores what Scripture says about shame, identity, and the transforming power of forgiveness. You'll discover why healing happens in stages, why forgiveness is about your freedom—not excusing what happened—and how Jesus carried both your sin and your shame on the cross. If you've ever wondered whether true freedom is possible, this conversation will remind you that your past does not define your future. In Christ, healing, hope, and restoration are possible. In This Episode You'll Learn Why shame is one of the deepest wounds after childhood sexual abuse. How shame first appeared in Scripture and why we still hide today. The difference between guilt and shame. Why your identity is found in Christ—not in what happened to you. What biblical forgiveness really means (and what it doesn't). Three practical steps to begin releasing shame and moving toward freedom. Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 34:4-5 Genesis 3:10 John 8:32 Hebrews 12:2 Psalm 139:14 Romans 8:1 2 Corinthians 5:17 Journal Prompts Lord, where has shame been shaping how I see myself instead of Your truth? Is there someone I need to begin surrendering into Your hands through forgiveness? What is keeping me from taking that first step? What truth from Your Word do You want me to believe about yourself today? Encouragement Healing isn't a destination you reach overnight. It is a journey of continually turning your eyes back to Jesus. As you walk with Him, shame loses its grip, forgiveness becomes possible, and your identity is rooted in the One who calls you redeemed. Remember: Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. (Psalm 34:5)   🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself. >> Join my Insider Email Community and be the first to hop in my free community when the doors open!   https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

  4. Jul 15

    46 | How To Reduce Cortisol And Heal From Childhood Sexual Abuse

    One of the simplest ways to help you overcome fear, anger and shame from your past, seems to be the hardest thing to do. And that is to take of yourself. I am not talking about just your spiritual life or just your thought patterns… I am talking about you as a WHOLE woman. Your overall heath INCLUDES taking care of your body so that you can have the confidence to show up for the people in your life and for you. In today's episode, Leslie gives you 7 science backed ways to regulate your cortisol so that you can live in purpose with joy: 1. Morning Sunlight 2. Movement Early in the Day 3. Breath-work That Activates the Vagus Nerve 4. Protein Early in the Day 5. Reduce Evening Ligft and Stimulation 6. Social Connection and Safety 7. Awe, Gratitude, and Worshop Scripture Referenced:  1 Corinthians 6:17, 1 Corinthians 10:31   >> Join my Insider Email Community!   https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/   🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.

  5. Jul 9

    45 | You Were Made for More Despite Your Childhood Trauma

    Have you ever wondered if your past has disqualified you from the life God intended for you? After experiencing childhood sexual abuse, many women believe their story is defined by shame, pain, and brokenness. But God's Word tells a different story. In this episode, Leslie shares a personal story of God's faithfulness and explores the remarkable story of Ruth—a woman whose life began with loss and uncertainty but became part of God's incredible plan of redemption. Ruth didn't know where God was leading her. She simply chose faithfulness one step at a time. Her obedience led her from being a foreign widow to becoming the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Christ. Just like Ruth, you may not be able to see the entire path ahead, but God is already at work, redeeming your story and preparing you for the purpose He has uniquely designed for you. If you've ever questioned whether God could still use your life, this episode is a reminder that your past does not determine your future. God is a Redeemer, and He delights in bringing beauty from brokenness. Scriptures Mentioned Romans 8:28 Ruth 1–4 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 Jeremiah 29:11 Reflection Questions Spend time with the Lord this week using these journal prompts: Lord, where have I been allowing my past to define me instead of Your truth? Father, what gifts, strengths, or experiences have You been developing in me through my healing journey? Jesus, what is one faithful next step You are inviting me to take this week as I walk toward the purpose You have for my life? If today's episode encouraged you, would you share it with a friend? You never know who may need the reminder that God can redeem even the most painful chapters of life. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss upcoming episodes as we continue exploring healing, identity, biblical wellness, and living the life God created you to live.   RESOURCES: ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself. 🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a Rooted & Risen Coaching Session >> Join my INSIDER!   https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

  6. Jul 3

    44 | True Freedom From Childhood Sexual Trauma: Finding Your Identity in Christ

    Happy 4th of July—and Happy 250th Birthday to the United States! 🇺🇸 As we celebrate the freedom of our nation, I want to invite you to consider an even greater freedom—the freedom that can only be found in Jesus Christ. In this special Independence Day episode, I share a personal reflection on growing up loving America, remembering the Bicentennial celebration in 1976, and how, years later, I discovered a freedom that changed my life forever. If you're carrying shame, trauma, or the weight of your past, this episode is a reminder that your story does not have to end there. Through Christ, you can experience forgiveness, healing, and a brand-new identity. We'll walk through several Psalms that point us toward salvation, renewal, and lasting joy, and I'll share a simple prayer for anyone who wants to begin a relationship with Jesus today. No matter what has happened to you, your past does not define you. Your identity is found in Christ alone. In This Episode You'll Learn Why freedom in Christ is greater than any earthly freedom The personal story of how Jesus transformed my identity Five Scriptures that lead us toward salvation and joy Why your past does not determine your future How renewing your mind with God's Word breaks the cycle of shame A simple prayer to receive Christ Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 51:1–2 Psalm 32:5 Psalm 32:1–2 Psalm 32:11 Psalm 51:10 Resources Mentioned ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself. Coming Soon I'm creating something very close to my heart... A free, faith-centered community for women healing from childhood sexual abuse—a safe place for encouragement, Biblical truth, healing conversations, and support. Join my INSIDER list, https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE , to be the first to know when the doors open. If This Episode Encouraged You Would you take a moment to: Subscribe to the podcast Leave a review Share this episode with someone who needs hope today Together, we can remind women everywhere that healing is possible—and freedom is found in Christ.

  7. Jun 30

    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.

  8. Jun 25

    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.

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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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