In this powerful, healing-centered episode Kelsey Elizabeth Matthews guides us through what it actually takes to move from religious wounding into deep emotional, spiritual, and personal transformation.

Rather than focusing only on the problems within high-control church environments, this conversation centers on how to heal, how to rebuild, and how to reclaim your sense of self after leaving toxic or narcissistic faith systems.

Kelsey breaks down the healing journey with compassion and clarity, helping listeners reconnect with their inner wisdom, reestablish trust in their intuition, and rebuild a healthier relationship with themselves, God, and community.

On This Episode, We Discuss:

• Why many people mistake control for love

• Recognizing the nervous system’s role in staying stuck

• Why true self-love is essential—and not selfish

• What triggers reveal about your inner child and unmet needs

• Grounding practices and emotional regulation tools

• Why your body reacts with fear when you step outside familiar belief systems

• What Christ-like love actually looks like

• How to approach the Bible with new eyes and without fear

• Separating God from the harmful ways religion has portrayed God

• Creating boundaries without guilt

• Healing as a lifelong process—not a destination
  

Mentioned In This Episode: Dawnland Documentary

Additional Resources: | Awaken Your Truth - A free guide for those deconstructing toxic religious 

Who Is Kelsey Matthews

Kelsey Elizabeth Matthews is a first-generation college graduate, published author, advocate, public speaker, coach, trainer, and consultant with a passion for empowering individuals and leaders. Originally from East Haven, CT, Kelsey graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in 2023, where she was honored as one of 58 Truman Scholars nationwide. 

Kelsey’s professional journey spans multiple sectors, including rehabilitative mental health, non-profit program management, and community engagement, with a focus on mental health, substance abuse, suicide prevention, and animal welfare. A survivor of narcissistic abuse and institutional trauma, Kelsey is driven by her personal experiences to advocate for those affected by emotional and verbal abuse, especially within institutions. Through her own healing, she has developed a deep knowledge of ethics, abuse/power dynamics, and leadership, inspiring her to coach and train others to become healthy, empowered individuals and leaders.

Residing again in her home state of Connecticut, Kelsey is the Founder and CEO of Phoenix Rising Coaching & Consulting, LLC, and a member of the Maxwell Leadership Team. She is a TEDx speaker, having presented "Transformative Leadership: The Power of Love to Change the World" at TEDxUNLV 2024. Kelsey is currently completing her Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Policy Practice at the University of Connecticut, with plans to pursue a PhD in Social/Personality Psychology.

Learn More About Kelsey: Website | Coaching & Consulting | Kelsey's Ted Talk 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

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