For more than 30 years, Arlene Lehmann has been helping women recover from domestic violence and abortion trauma. She has facilitated many support groups for battered women and post-abortive women. She has served on the leadership team for Deeper Still, a ministry that facilitates weekend retreats for women and men with abortion-wounded hearts. She is a member of Operation Outcry …
EP 139: How Do We Deal With Horror Stories In The Bible? Judges 19
We are continuing our series of character studies in the Bible in the perspective of an abuse survivor. Today we are talking about a very difficult passage of Scripture: Judges 19, which is the story of the Levite and the concubine. Why is this horrific story included in the Bible? Why did they go to war with their own people? …
EP 135: What Do You Do When Ministry Becomes Misery? Scott Distler
What do you do when you have been abused, betrayed and abandoned by your own church? Pastor Scott Distler is all too familiar with that scenario and talks about his journey in his book, The Cave: When Ministry Becomes Misery. Scott uses examples of Bible heroes, fresh encouragement, and proven practical strategies to help others towards healing. He is passionate …
EP 134: Can Anything Good Come From Abuse? Joseph Part Two
Welcome back to Part Two of our bible study of Joseph. We continue with Joseph testing his brothers and being reunited with his family again. We see how Joseph saves the lives of the whole region during the great famine. Find out what God did through Joseph’s suffering and how Joseph was able to forgive his family. Join us for …
EP 131: The Weeping Prophet We Can Relate To
Most people can recite Jeremiah 29:11, but what does the rest of the book of Jeremiah have to offer us today? Why was Jeremiah called The Weeping Prophet? Well, you are going to find out on this week’s episode. Jeremiah has lots of reasons to weep during his days of warning the Israelites of the coming judgement of God for …
EP 129: Jesus As An Abuse Victim
We all know that Jesus suffered and died for us on the cross, but have you ever considered that Jesus can relate to those of us who are abuse survivors? We are exploring a different perspective of the life and death of Jesus-That he was an abuse survivor Himself. I talk about his birth, his ministry, his array of human …
EP 128: A Young Girl Who Won A Beauty Pageant: Esther
Imagine being taken from your home as a young girl to the harem of a cruel King to become the next queen of Persia. That’s what happened to Hadassah, a godly Jew raised by her uncle. Discover the twists and turns of the story of Esther, her faith, bravery, and even craftiness in order to save her people. Website: https://dswministries.org …
EP 124: You Are Greatly Loved: Daniel the Prophet
What would you do if a pagan nation took you captive far from home, changed your name, commanded you to bow before an idol, and accused you of breaking the king’s law? We are talking about Daniel and his 3 friends, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah who suffered these very things, yet was faithful to the Lord. We are going to …
Featured Website: Helping Survivors.org
We have our featured resource and website that I would like you know about and check out! Here is a short message from Outreach Director from Helping Survivors:
EP 109: My Story: Part 16: What’s It Like To Be Fired From A Church?
Thank you for continuing with me on the next chapter of my story. I start out clarifying what went down when the church fired me, and the fallout from that. I fill in the rest of that time period with what happened at home behind the scenes, including nearly losing everything on a business venture, my ex sabotaging expressions of …
EP 107: My Story: Part 14: When You Think That Moving Will Give You A Fresh Start
We are coming back to finish My Story series. We left off leaving our church in the inner city, and taking advantage of a job transfer to move out West. I talk about the adjustments that had to be made, being near my parents, finding a church to serve in. I also discover that the same abuse followed me across …
EP 106: Why You Should Study The Bible Within A Community: Pastor Kyle Fox
We have our finale for our Bible study series today! Last, but not least, we have my own Pastor, Kyle Fox, on the show talking about why it is important to study the Scriptures for yourself, but also why you need a godly community for support. He gives us his own acronym that helps you remember the basic guidelines for …
EP 105: Lessons Learned Along The Way: Andrea Sandefur
We have a returning musical guest on the show today! Andrea Sandefur is here to talk to us about her new song Shepherd King! We catch up on all the goings on in Alaska since her last visit: job changes, the music ministry, creative arts and a recipe for Moose Stroganoff! We will hear her new song at the end …
EP 104: Domestic Violence And PTSD Can Keep Us In A Loop, How Do We Break The Cycle? Christina Foxwell
We have a fantastic lady for you on the show today! Christina Foxwell is here to tell her powerful story of her healing journey from domestic violence. She is talking about her new book, Glass Angel as well. Join me for a delightful conversation Down Under! Transcript below! Biography I am a HUMAN one who is passionate about People and …
EP 103: How To Linger In The Presence Of God: Dr. Naima Bush
We have my former music mentor on the show with us, Dr Naima Bush. She’s coming to talk about her new song Swept Away, and telling us about all her trials and adventures the last 2 years. She also shares her upbringing, her harrowing tale of an abusive boyfriend, and her wonderful music ministry. We will get to hear her …
I Was A Guest On Heal Thrive Dream Podcast With Karen Robinson
https://podcasts.bcast.fm/e/q809qrpn (6) Heal Thrive Dream Guest: Diana Winkler – YouTube You all met Karen when she was on my podcast episode 89 recently and heard about her ministry. She invited me on her podcast as well. We had a great time sharing my story and how I started DSW Ministries. You will love Karen and her interview style. Join us …
How Does The Christian Faith Combine With Modern Psychology And Coaching? Michael Jaqueth
I had an entertaining and humorous conversation with Michael Jaquith, filled with valuable advice from his personal experiences. Michael tells his raw story of growing up in an abusive home, navigating the fallout from it, his conversion to Christ, and raising a family. He gives fresh perspective on how men can gain victory over addictions and live an abundant life …
A Guest Blog Collaboration With Other Abuse Advocates For Heal Thrive Dream!
If You remember my guest Karen Robinson From Heal, Thrive, Dream Podcast, she invited me to be a part of a collaborative blog with other abuse advocates! There is some very valuable advice here from those who know firsthand! Click on the link below to read the blog! “How to Support a Friend Who Has Experienced Domestic Violence” – Heal …
EP 101: How Can We Find Humor When Studying The Bible? Jake Doberenz
We are having a great time during our Bible Study series. This week my guest is Jake Doberenz from Creatively Christian Podcast and Theophany Media. Jake is known for finding the humor in everyday life, and even in difficult passages in Scripture. He loves to study the writings of Paul, passionate about exploring the depths of Scripture, and loves to …
EP 100: Can I Trust The Bible And God After I’ve Been Abused? Pastor Mark Sowersby
It’s our 100th episode of the podcast! We have Pastor Mark Sowersby back on the podcast to celebrate! We are continuing on our series on How To Study The Bible For Abuse Survivors. Mark knows first hand what it’s like to suffer horrible abuse and find his way back to God. We heard his story back on episode 11. He …
EP 99: Why Should I Study The Bible When It Triggers Me? Pastor Jason Harris
Welcome back to Part 4 of our series on How To Study The Bible For Abuse Survivors! Pastor Jason Harris is back on the podcast from Cairns, Australia! He and his Mom, Joy Harris, told their survival story of abuse on Episode 57 and 58. One of the reasons survivors stop reading the Bible, is that certain verses trigger them. …
I Was A Guest On Phantom Electric Ghost Podcast!
I had a great conversation with Keith of Phantom Electric Ghost Podcast. We were talking all things music: genres, how I got started, influences, songwriting. I also talked about what it was like being a missionary in a legalistic church with an abusive husband. I end with how I blended my music with my abuse advocay and my new healing …
Episode 94: How To Apply Emotional Intelligence To Control Your Triggers: Agape Garcia
So you’ve heard of post traumatic stress disorder, but we’re gonna find out what post traumatic growth is today. Agape Garcia is going to tell her powerful story of childhood survival, defying all odds, and protecting her child from her abusive husband. She describes how she has risen above her trauma, learned to deal with those triggers, and helps others …
EP 93: Can Medication Be Effective For Porn Addiction? Isaiah Cruz
What are some other treatments for porn addiction when the standard methods aren’t working? Is there hope for Christians who are stuck in the cycle of addiction and guilt? My Guest Isaiah Cruz is going to offer up some alternatives, sound advice and grace for a very common stronghold in today’s world. Join us for a very informative conversation. Transcription …
EP 85: Breaking Free From The Monster: Victoria Cuore: Part 2
We have Part 2 of my guest Victoria Cuore’s riveting story! This week we cover her abuser’s drug addictions, affairs, and continued violence towards her and her daughter. She believes her faith in God kept her alive through the abuse and gave her hope to go on in the darkest hours. She shares when she was finally able to fight …
EP 84: Protecting My Unborn Child From Her Father: Victoria Cuore: Part 1
How do you protect your unborn child from her father who is bent on killing her-and beating you within an inch of your life? Today we’ll meet Victoria Cuore, who has had over 100 surgeries to repair the damage from her abusive marriage. She shares how she met him on the rebound after a breakup, and how he used mind …
EP 83: How Can I Be Resilient In Life? Stephanie Olson
We have a wonderful guest today, Stephanie Olson, from Set Me Free Project! We talked about growing up in a home as a bi-racial child, neglect from her father, her struggles with alcoholism, and an abusive marriage. She is very candid about the pain and self blame from her 3 miscarriages she suffered. We dive into her non profit ministry …
Where Did You See God? Sitting In Suffering: Longsuffering-With Paul Grainger
I had a great time talking with Paul Grainger on his podcast Where Did You See God? I talked about my abuse story and my ministry now. Paul very eloquently adds some insights and encouragement to the story as well. Here is the link to listen: https://anchor.fm/wheredidyouseegod/episodes/Sitting-in-Suffering-Long-suffering-e1i6al5 Here’s Paul Grainger’s website: https://www.wheredidyouseegod.com/ https://www.facebook.com/wheredidyouseeGod/ https://www.instagram.com/wheredidyouseegod/ Website: https://dswministries.org Email: diana@dswministries.org Social media …
EP 80: Multiple Traumas And Hard Decisions: Saroya Brown
We have a delightful and brave guest, Saroya Brown, on the show this week. She was an orphan and was homeless for 2 years, survived cancer 3 times, and suffered numerous abuses. She talks about the ugly process of healing: spiritually, physically, and mentally-And then about the hope on the other side! She is a strong lady. You don’t want …
EP 79: When You Choose Your Own Name: Danielle Bernock: Part Two
More love from Danielle Bernock this week! We have Part Two of my conversation with her. We find out why she decided to choose her own name and what people thought of that. We talk about how to heal childhood trauma, which can take longer to heal. Did you know you can suffer from trauma for years and not even …
EP 78: The Lady On The Internet Who Loves You: Danielle Bernock: Part One
How can someone say I love you, when you’ve never met? Well, my guest Danielle Bernock is going to tell you how! A lover of cheese and ziplining, she shares how she thought that God didn’t love her when she was rejected by her church. Danielle is very candid about her childhood trauma and the journey it took towards healing. …
EP 77: Dealing With The Reality Of Violence: Kenny Jezek
You are going to really enjoy today’s episode. My special guest is Kenny Jezek, Christian actor, dancer, Master Dance Educator, Producer, Choreographer, Martial Artist, Husband, Father, and Grandpa. Kenny was my first martial arts instructor, in the art of Jeet Kune Do. Most people know him for his role he played on Days Of Our Lives as Lars Englund. Violence …
Bonus Episode: Featuring Juanita McDonald On Her Fundraiser For Sexual Assault Survivors
We have a bonus episode for you this week! Come and hear about a great fundraiser for sexual assault survivors! It’s called a Panty-Thon! I’m interviewing Juanita McDonald about her story behind starting her ministry at Discover Me! Join us! Organization: Re-Discover ME Women InitiativeMission: To Engage, Educate, and Inspire change for which a woman or teen girl survivor of …
EP75: Parenting Challenges With Foster To Adopt Children: Marcy Pusey: Part Two
We have more Marcy for you! This week is the second half of my conversation with Marcy Pusey, who talks about her experience with foster to adopt and raising multicultural kids. She also shares the heartbreaking story of her mother-in-law being murdered in her home. There is so much grace, wisdom and valuable lessons learned in her captivating storyteller style! …
EP73 When You Don’t Remember Your Childhood Abuse: John Jarman
With no memory of his childhood till the age of twelve, John Jarman had no conscious way to overcome the unknown pain in his past. When his adult life crumbled around him, he finally reached out for professional help, both emotionally and spiritually. Over the next ten years, this inner work lead John to places he—and his counselor—would never have …
Episode 66: I Don’t Want My Daughter To Suffer The Same Abuse I Did: Bridget Seavey: Part 2
We are continuing Bridget Seavey’s incredible story this week. With the birth of her daughter, she realized she did not want the abuse to continue to the next generation. She shares the repeated verbal, physical and sexual abuse that she endured, and what was the catalyst for finally standing up for herself and establishing boundaries. When her husband filed for …
Episode 65: Kicked Out Of The Church After Being Abused: Bridget Seavey
Why would a church kick a young girl out of the church she loves when she reports she has been abused by someone in the church? This is actually quite common in churches, and it happened more than once to our guest Bridget Seavey. She was raised in the Fundamental Baptist Church and was assaulted as a young girl by …
Episode 64: Coping With Post Partum Depression And Other Trauma: Hope Makena
What is it like moving to a new country, experiencing culture shock, starting a new life? Only to then be violated by trusted family friends? Our guest is Hope Makena from beautiful Nairobi Kenya, residing in Ontario, Canada. She tells us about what life was like in Kenya and wanting to be a doctor when she grows up. We also …
Episode 59: My Story: The Beginning Of My Missionary Service: Part 10
We are continuing the next stage in my life story and abuse story. We left off at graduation from bible college and the tumultuous first year of marriage. I describe the process of becoming a Baptist missionary, the different kinds of missionaries, and the pitfalls. I explain why we chose an unorthodox path as missionaries and who our first couple …
Episode 58: Consent In Marriage: Joy And Jason Harris: Part Two
Welcome back to Part Two of my interview with Joy and Pastor Jason Harris from Cairns, Australia. We continue with their story of abuse at the hands of Larry, Joy’s ex husband and Jason’s father. This week we talk about Kevin, Joy’s oldest son, a pastor who believes his mother’s rape was her fault, and that she should repent. Kevin …
Episode 57: Consent In Marriage: Joy And Jason Harris: Part One
Is there such a thing as consent in marriage? Is there ever a time when you can say no to your spouse? Can someone be raped in a Christian marriage? These are some of the questions we will answer with my two guests from Down Under, Joy Harris, and her son Pastor Jason Harris. Joy is a survivor of years …
One Year Anniversary Of The Podcast: Part Two
Welcome back to Part Two of the One Year Anniversary celebration! I have more new music featured for you, as well as more highlights from my great guests this past year! There is a book giveaway for those who share and comment on their favorite guest’s podcast! This is a great episode to get a sample of all the guests …
I Was A Guest On “Finding God In Our Pain” With Sherrie Pilkington
I had a great conversation with Sherrie talking about the short version of my abuse story. Be sure to check out Sherrie’s podcast! Sherrie’s bio: I’m so glad you’re here. Addressing our grief is never easy, so I am truly grateful for your trust as we navigate this delicate subject. I promise there is healing and love to be found …
Episode 48: Jumping Out Of A Third Story Window: Rob Decker
Sometimes in our lives, circumstances seem so hopeless that ending it all appears to be the solution to end the pain. That happened to my guest Rob Decker, when he decided to end it all by jumping out of a third story window-and surviving the fall. We will find out about his childhood abuse, being raised by parents who were …
Episode 46: My Story: How Not To Date An Atheist: Part 3
Join me this week as I continue on part 3 of my story. I talk about my teenage growing pains during my high school years, and adjusting to my parents’ divorce. I navigate my renewed relationship with God at the same time I started dating my atheist boyfriend. You’ll hear the adventures with my first car and surviving the 122 …
Episode 43: Breaking Free Of The Narcissist: Maegan From The Secret Garden Podcast
How can an abuse advocate not recognize the red flags of abuse in her own relationships? Well, it happened to Maegan, from The Secret Garden Podcast. She shares her experiences in the emergency room of comforting sexual assault victims and ensuring that the collection of evidence is completed accurately. Find out what the connection is with the show Law & Order! Maegan reveals what is the process during a rape kit and what happens to the kit afterwards, and how we can advocate for ourselves and our loved ones during this traumatic time. We also discuss what are the characteristics of a narcissist and how a narcissist does not think like everyone else. We end with Maegan’s own harrowing story of her ex husband and dating tips for breaking free of the grip that the narcissist has over us. Don’t miss this episode with Maegan!
Episode 42: Hope for Trauma Induced OCD: Peyton Garland
The only experience with OCD that most people have usually comes from TV shows, like Monk, or celebrities like Howie Mandel. What exactly is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Peyton Garland joins us to share her journey with this debilitating illness. Here’s what we discuss during our conversation: The 4 kinds of OCD. Why OCD is not the same as being a …
Episode 39: The Culty World Of The IFB Church: Will Hess: Part Two
Will Hess continues the story of his life in the Independent Fundamental Baptist Church. He talks about getting married, transitioning out of the IFB, exposing a sexual abuse cover-up, and being manipulated as a pastor of his church. Will shares how to avoid false teachings, how to study the bible in context, and why you shouldn’t walk away from God …
Episode 38: The Culty World Of The IFB Colleges: Will Hess Part One
Is your church a cult? My guest Will Hess wholeheartedly agrees that The Fundamental Baptist Church (a.k.a The IFB) he was raised in was a cult. He will share the story of how he suffered abuse from within his own family, as well as in his church. In this two part interview, here are the topics we covered this week: …
Episode 36: Your Inner Child And Your Past Abuse: Eddie Capparucci
We’re talking about your Inner Child today. Do you have behaviors that point to sexual addiction? Do you need some real solutions to dealing with it? Does your husband have a porn addiction? Do you blame yourself for his actions? Meet Eddie Capparucci, a licensed and Christian therapist certified in the treatment of sexual and pornography addiction. He is the creator …
Episode 35: PTSD Of First Responders: Norm Wielsch
Is there a difference between combat PTSD and First Responder PTSD? According to my guest, Norm Wielsch, your body recognizes them as the same thing. In my conversation with Norm, we hear about his father fighting during WWII and losing almost his entire family during the bombings. True to his father’s generation and culture, he never spoke about his war …
Episode 34: When Is It Time To Leave Your Bully Church? Pastor Al Descheneau Part Two
When should you leave your church? Perhaps we should be asking God, “Should I stay?” instead. This is the second half of my riveting interview with Pastor Al Desheneau. We hear his story of being a young, green pastor, and pastoring churches filled with stubborn, legalistic people who didn’t want to change or be pastored. Pastor Al candidly shares the …
Episode 33: Being Bullied And Jesus Is Your Only Friend: Pastor Al Descheneau Part One
Have you been bullied? Then you must know how it feels to be alone, rejected, and friendless. My guest today is Pastor Al Descheneau, who shares the story of his upbringing in a transient Christian home. As always the new kid in school, he was subjected to frequent bullying and abusive treatment from his school mates. By the time he …
Episode 32: Poverty, Wealth, Addiction, Restoration: Dr. Joe Martin
We have an incredible, unbelievable story for you today. This is the story of a man raised in the projects in Miami, Florida who rises to massive success and wealth by his mid twenties, only to lose it all to sexual addiction. Dr. Joe Martin very candidly shares his childhood, being raised by his alcoholic teen mother, the unbearable loss …
I Was A Guest On The Caregiver Cup Podcast
I had a great time talking with Cathy VandenHeuval on the Caregiver Cup Podcast! This was not my usual interview that I give. I am usually talking about my abuse story or my music. But this time I share more of my personal life and struggles. My husband has been really ill and there have been adjustments to our life …
I Was A Guest On Creatively Christian Podcast
I had a wonderful time as a guest on Creatively Christian Podcast, talking with Andrea Sandefur about how my music is a powerful tool for helping people heal from abuse. I talk about my musical identity crisis, how I have stayed creative during the pandemic, and my new album coming up. We cover important topics like advice for those started …
I Was A Guest On “From Mess To Miracle” Podcast
Join me as I have a great conversation with Keith Haney, host of “From Mess To Miracle” podcast. I share my story and talk about spiritual abuse in the church, one of the worst abuses we can suffer. It affects our self image and our perception of God. Click on the link below to listen: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1546138/8589270 Website: https://dswministries.org Email: diana@dswministries.org …
Episode 29: Men Too: Dr. Kelli Palfy
Hollywood and pop culture often give us the impression that men can’t be raped or sexually abused. Our guest today, Dr. Kelli Palfy, is here to dispel that myth and to give us the facts gleaned from her vast experience working in correctional facilities, the RCMP, and from her own doctoral research on why males don’t report sexual trauma. Dr. …
Episode 28: The Healing Power Of Dance: Laura Padgett
Dance is a form of expression with the body. Dance can be used for entertainment, exercise, artistic expression, and worship. We have a real treat for you on today’s podcast. Our guest is dancer, writer and storyteller Laura Padgett. We had an enjoyable time reminiscing about favorite dance performances, the challenges of dealing with our aging bodies, and healing from …
Episode 25: Do You Need A Mentor? What To Look For In A Mentor
Do need help in achieving a goal or to learn a new skill? Are you transitioning to a new stage in your life and you have no idea what to do next? Perhaps you need a mentor or coach! Join us on this practical episode as Diana details what a mentor or coach can do for you, the pitfalls to …
Episode 24: Sheila Gregoire: Toxic Church Teachings About Sex, Purity, and Marriage
Do you feel that a satisfying love life in your marriage is out of reach for you? Does your previous abuse and trauma stop you from enjoying a fulfilling sex life? Do the teachings you’ve been taught all your life in church about sex and pleasure seem one sided? We are going to get some fresh hope and healing today …
Episode 23: The Trauma Informed Church: Guest Suzanne Burns
How do you help a girl with a crisis pregnancy? Should you give money to the homeless man on the corner? We will find answers to these questions and more with our guest Suzanne Burns of Foundation House Ministries. Suzanne talks candidly about the inspiration behind starting Foundation House and her own crisis pregnancy. She shares the joys and challenges …
Episode 22: Musical Guest Andrea Sandefur: SAD, Survival, And The Arts In Alaska
We have our first official musical guest, Andrea Sandefur with us today. She is a singer, songwriter and worship leader living in the beautiful state of Alaska. We dive into the story behind the decision to move to Alaska, separating Alaska’s fact from the fiction, and about real survival. Andrea candidly shares about her struggles with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), …
Episode 21:Guest: Wanda Burnside: When God Protected Me And Called Me To Write For Him
We have a special episode that was recorded during Black History month. Our guest is Wanda Burnside, who is an accomplished author, writer, and poet. Come and hear about her godly heritage growing up in Detroit, Michigan. In her signature storyteller style, she tells of how she served in the jail ministry with her father when she was 16, her …
Episode 19: Guest: Janell Wood: When You Doubt Your Faith In God
We’re talking today about skepticism of Christianity, doubts about your faith, abandoning your faith, or never having your own relationship with Jesus at all. My guest today is Janell Wood, host of the podcast “Finding Something Real”, which she describes, is for seekers and believers needing encouragement. It’s for the believer struggling with faith and the skeptic struggling with doubt. …
Episode 17: What’s It Like Being In A Mending The Soul Group?
If you are wondering if Mending the Soul small group is right for you, join us as Diana candidly talks about the process of joining a small group. She starts with the interview process, the requirements for joining a group, and what kind of experience you will have. She briefly reviews the array of essential abuse topics in the amazing …
Episode 16: Guest: Dr. Steve Tracy: God Is Healing Severe Abuse And Trauma
Don’t miss this incredible, inspiring episode as Diana interviews Dr. Steve Tracy, Founder and President of Mending The Soul. Dr. Tracy shares how his personal experiences with abuse and trauma inspired him and his wife Celestia to start the ministry of Mending The Soul. Learn about the many biblical and psychologically sound resources for healing abuse, and trauma that Mending …
EPISODE 15: GUEST WAYNE STILES: THE GODLY EXAMPLE OF JOSEPH
Don’t miss this episode with our guest Wayne Stiles from Walking The Bible Lands! Wayne shares insights on the godly example of Joseph, and how his life gives us some encouraging answers to one of life’s toughest questions: Where was God during our abuse and suffering? We reminisce about our favorite biblical sites in Israel and learn more about the …
Episode 14: Survivor Story: Sandy Phillips Kirkham – Let Me Prey On You
We have a survivor story of clergy abuse on today’s episode. Our guest is Sandy Phillips Kirkham, author of the book, Let Me Prey Upon You. It tells the horrific story of how she was methodically groomed by her youth pastor when she was 16 years old and suffered sexual, emotional, and physical abuse. Join us on a journey with …
Episode 13: Survivor Story: Roselly Genao – It’s Not That Easy To Leave
Join us for a captivating story of healing! Our guest is Roselly Genao. She tells of her close knit Catholic family and Dominican roots. As she goes through her college years, she struggled with her faith, depression, lack of self worth, and drinking. She entered into this abusive relationship and tried to leave twice after her boyfriend tried to kill …
Episode 12: Guest Dave Ebert: The Healing Power Of Laughter
Our guest on this week’s podcast, is Dave Ebert from Gifts4Glory Ministries. Dave shares his past struggles with depression, self worth, and thoughts of suicide. He has captivating stories of how he met the Lord, found his calling into improv comedy, and helps victims of sex trafficking to heal using improv classes. You will not want to miss this inspiring …
Episode 11: Survivor Story: Pastor Mark Sowersby – Forgiving The Nightmare
Our guest on today’s episode is Pastor Mark Sowersby. He shares his inspiring story of overcoming abuse, struggles with his weight, and dyslexia. He tells us powerful stories about meeting Jesus, going into the ministry, and learning how to forgive. Join us as he show us how he went from being a victim to being victorious! www.forgivingthenightmare.com mark@forgivingthenightmare.com bio: Reverend …
Episode 9: Let’s Talk About Trust Part 2: God and the Bible
Can we trust God and the Bible in the midst of our suffering? Diana explores these questions. She also gives tips on bible study and praying when you don’t feel like it. She extends her Christmas greetings with her favorite Christmas carol, O Holy Night. show notes: My blog post about our Israel trip: https://dswministries.orgwhat-they-dont-tell-you-about-your-pilgrimage-to-israel/ https://www.crossway.org/bibles/esv-archaeology-study-bible-hccase/ https://www.christianbook.com/page/bible-studies?navcat=Bible-Study https://waynestiles.com/ Link Tree …
I Was A Guest On The Good News Podcast
I had a great time with Roselly Genao on The Good News Podcast. I talked about my upbringing, how I got saved, and called into the ministry. I shared a shortened version of my abusive marriage and serving in the ministry as a church planter. My story does have a happy ending, so tune in to the Good News Podcast …
Episode 8: Let’s Talk About Trust Part 1: People
Join us as Diana talks about her feelings and struggles of the season. She defines the many different tiers of trust. She warns about those who you should not give your trust to and why we shouldn’t give our trust to others so quickly. This episode ends with Diana singing a Christmas carol: Virgin Slumber Song. Show notes: Link Tree …
Episode 7: Guest: Ken Keis- Living On Purpose
Our episode today features Ken Keis who talks about how to live our lives on purpose instead of letting life happen to us. He shares his journey of growing up on a dairy farm and realizes that this was not the life he wanted for himself. He talks about his family originating from Hungary and the history of abuse that …
Episode 6: Sgt.(Ret)Doug Setter: How Not To Be A Victim
Today’s guest on the show is Doug Setter who gives us some advice on how NOT to be a victim in today’s world. He starts sharing about his background in the military, his martial arts training, and the inspiration for his book, One Less Victim. He weaves stories of abuse and PTSD that are all too common in the military …
Episode 1: Some Myths About Domestic Violence And Abuse
In this episode, Diana dispels a few myths about abuse, what the common denominator of all abuse is, and what we can do about it. She talks a little about Mending The Soul small groups, and ends with a song selection from her album Classic Favorites, recorded live. Show notes: Link Tree Website: https://dswministries.org Email: diana@dswministries.org Social media links: Facebook: …
I Was Interviewed On The Preacher Boys Podcast
I share the long version of my abuse story and talk about the widespread abuses in the Independent Fundamental Baptist Church. I end with my experiences with Mending the Soul and the healing process. Check out Preacher Boys Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Eric Skwarczynski has some great guests on the show! https://podcasts.apple.com/…/preacher…/id1493726980…
Series On Domestic Violence Part 1: Physical Violence
This Is The Kind Of Abuse We Associate With Domestic Violence The Most. The bruises, broken bones, black eyes, burn marks, busted teeth. This is what you see in the headlines. This form of abuse is easiest to spot, but it doesn’t make it any easier to stomach it when you see it. “I fell off my bicycle.” “I slipped …
Why Is There So Much Evil In The World?
As we look around our world right now, we are bombarded with images of violence, hate, racism, lying, cheating, rioting, and murdering. Where does it all come from? You make think that these current events are new to the world we live in. It’s “unprecedented times”. Well, not really. It’s just plain old sin as usual. Solomon says in Ecclesiastes …
You have no guarantee of tomorrow. Hug them today.
Some of you know that we lost our dog Bear suddenly last week. As far as we knew, he was a healthy and active dog of 8 years old. We woke up on 9-11 and found Bear on the floor unable to get up for his breakfast. We rushed him to the hospital where they worked hard to stabilize him. …
Series on Domestic Violence Part 3: Sexual Abuse
You can read Part 1 Physical Violence here. You can read Part 2 Verbal and Emotional Abuse here It’s One of the Most Difficult Topics to Talk About. Sexual abuse has been around for a very long time, but no one wants to talk about it. Although the #MeTooMovement has brought some things out into the limelight, there is still …


