Episode 529. Breaking Chains and Embracing Healing with Memoirist Brittany Means

Get ready for an empowering episode of Radically Loved as we dive into the inspiring journey of Brittany Means, a dynamic writer and editor who's breaking the cycle of abuse and rewriting her narrative. In this riveting conversation, we explore the intersections of poverty, abuse, and addiction while delving into the importance of recognizing signs of abuse and neglect.

Brittany opens up about the complexities of forgiveness, sharing her unique perspective on this transformative process. She bares it all on the vulnerability of memoir writing, detailing the surprises and challenges encountered during her courageous journey.

But that's not all – we get an exclusive sneak peek into Brittany's upcoming project on health and mental health within religious communities, promising thought-provoking insights.

In this episode, you'll discover that breaking the cycle of abuse requires self-awareness and a reflective examination of how past experiences shape our behavior. Recognizing signs of abuse and neglect becomes a crucial step in fostering a safe space for children to share their truths.

Takeaways
Breaking the cycle of abuse requires self-awareness and reflection on how past experiences have shaped one's behavior. Recognizing signs of abuse and neglect is crucial in order to support children and create a safe environment for them to speak their truth. Forgiveness is a complex process that can be defined in different ways for different people. It is important to find a definition that aligns with one's own healing journey. Writing can be a cathartic tool for processing trauma, but it is essential to prioritize self-care and engage in grounding practices outside of writing. Memory is unreliable, and our brains can create different narratives of the same events. It is important to be aware of the limitations of memory when writing memoirs. Connecting with mentors and finding inspiration from other writers can be instrumental in developing one's own writing style and pursuing a career in writing.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning
00:59 Introduction of Guest
01:56 Breaking the Cycle of Abuse
04:30 The Intersection of Poverty, Abuse, and Addiction
09:25 Recognizing Signs of Abuse and Neglect
12:30 The Complexity of Forgiveness
21:26 The Intimacy and Vulnerability of Memoir Writing
24:55 Mentors and Inspirations
29:36 Self-Care and Writing Practices
38:19 Cutting Out Parts of the Book and Surprises in the Writing Process
42:23 Upcoming Project
45:06 Connecting with Brittany Means
46:13 Final Takeaway

Resources:
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are people and organizations ready to provide support. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call emergency services in your country.

Hotlines:
National Domestic Violence Hotline (USA): https://www.thehotline.org/
Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY: 1-800-787-32242.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network - USA): https://www.rainn.org/
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (USA): https://www.childhelp.org/
Phone: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Phone: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (USA): https://www.nsvrc.org/

International Resources:


International Directory of Domestic Violence Agencies: http://www.hotpeachpages.net/ 2. International Suicide Prevention Hotlines: https://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html

Online Resources:
Pandora's Project: http://www.pandys.org/
Psych Central - Abuse and Trauma Center: https://psychcentral.com/lib/types-of-abuse
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) Online Hotline: https://ohl.rainn.org/online/

Connect with Brittany Means Website: www.brittanymeans.com Hell If We Don’t Change Our Ways Book: https://www.brittanymeans.com/book Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrittanyMeansIt Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/brittanymeansit
Connect with Rosie Acosta: Get You Are Radically Loved the book: https://www.radicallyloved.com/book Listen to Rosie on Radio Headspace: https://open.spotify.com/episode/51BBKoCzz2Wzmi7TTsYfNI?si=65bc001ec09d4e8e&nd=1 Create a daily meditation ritual in just seven days! Download BUILD YOUR DAILY MEDITATION RITUAL and other freebies at https://www.radicallyloved.com/free-stuff!
Connect with Tessa Tovar: Website: https://tessatovar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessamarietovar/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHMYm-7kNZfulgaiCi2w8Cw Outside the Studio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/outside-the-studio-with-tessa-tovar/id1483077110 Book of Poetry for Savasana: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Moon-Book-Poetry-Savasana/dp/1731243588