Gem to Jewels – Episode 1: Testimony & GPS 📍

**** Disclaimer

This episode contains discussions on sensitive topics, including child abuse and molestation. We understand that these subjects can be distressing or triggering for some listeners. My goal in addressing these issues is to foster awareness, healing, and meaningful dialogue, but I acknowledge the deeply personal impact such topics may have.

Listener discretion is advised. If you find these topics triggering, please take care of yourself and consider whether listening is right for you at this time. If you or someone you know needs support, we encourage reaching out to trusted resources or professional help.

Before you start any journey, you have to drop the pin be honest about exactly where you are. Not where you think you should be. Not where you wish you were. But the real, raw truth.

In this debut episode, I take you through my own journey of transparency and transformation, unpacking the weight I carried for years from childhood wounds and body image struggles to confronting deep-seated trauma and finally setting myself free.

Growing up plus-size, dark-skinned, and Caribbean in Miami came with its own set of challenges. Beauty standards were loud, critiques even louder. Family, strangers—even women at the salon—offered bleaching creams and weight comments like casual conversation. But what hit the hardest? The silence surrounding real pain. The things I was taught to bury.

I break down how a random work conversation cracked open a truth I had kept locked away for decades. How I spent years rehearsing every possible outcome before finally telling my parents about the trauma I endured as a child. How the pandemic forced me to face myself, stop running, and finally release what wasn’t mine to carry anymore.

Through grace, purpose, and surrender, I’ve learned that healing isn’t about having all the answers it’s about showing up, even when you’re afraid. And that’s what From Gem to Jewels is all about.

So here’s the first Jewel I’m sharing with you: Healing begins the moment you decide to be honest.

✨ Tune in and let’s start the journey. ✨