This episode sponsored by Soroptimist International of Willimantic is both heartfelt and practical, offering listeners a roadmap for healing and empowerment. Sarah Gallardo shares her journey from a survivor of domestic violence and human trafficking to an advocate, author, and public speaker. Growing up surrounded by trauma and abuse, Sarah talks openly about how those early experiences fueled her self-doubt and shaped her relationships. After escaping her abusive marriage, she found her way to a support group, which eventually led to her becoming a certified domestic violence counselor—and the founder of Sarah Speaks Up.

Sarah offers personal advice on self-advocacy: start by speaking out to one trusted person, build your support system, and keep pushing until you find the help you need. She’s frank about her struggles with complex PTSD, revealing just how invisible and isolating mental health challenges can be. Her self-care protocol—written out in a literal document!—is a standout strategy, showing the importance of everyday rituals to lift your mood and help you heal.

We also dig into emotional triggers, the need to show yourself grace, and her advice not to “pick up where your abuser left off”—in other words, don’t keep punishing yourself. Her analogy of a support system being like a turtle’s shell makes the importance of having advocates in your corner crystal clear.

Finally, Sarah shares a sneak peek at her upcoming book about surviving child trafficking, describing how naming her trauma out loud became a turning point in her healing. She encourages everyone listening to trust their intuition, build strong networks, and reach out for help—no matter how scary it feels.

Founder of Sarah Speaks Up

Author of Hiding in Plain Sight: A Glimpse into the Reality of Domestic Violence. Get Your Copy Here: https://amzn.to/4pQZEMa

Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Survivor & Advocate

Vocal Performer, Blogger, Speaker (including at the United Nations!)

Dream Award winner (Live Your Dream Award from Soroptimist International) Apply Here: https://www.soroptimist.org/our-work/live-your-dream-awards/index.html

Connect: [email protected]

GoFundMe: Search “Sarah Gallardo” or visit her Facebook page to support her upcoming book.

As an Amazon Associate I may qualify for commissions on purchases at no additional cost to you.