Episode 5: From Victim to Thriver

Guest: Cheryl Greenfield – Empowerment Mindset Coach, Former Sexual Trauma Nurse, Author of Becoming Me, and Creator of the Empowered by Trauma Program Connect: Visit EmpoweredByTraumaNow.com or schedule a call at calendly.com/cherylgreenfield1961 Episode Overview: In this powerful episode of Shield The Vulnerable: Untold Stories, Cheryl Greenfield shares her harrowing yet inspiring story—from childhood sexual abuse by a family member to decades of silence, trauma, and inner battles. A former sexual trauma nurse and now a certified empowerment coach, Cheryl explains how her healing began not through traditional therapy, but through coaching that helped her shift from identifying as a victim to stepping into her role as a thriver. Her experience offers deep insights into trauma responses in the workplace, how organizations can better support survivors, and what it truly means to live empowered by trauma—not limited by it. Episode Breakdown: (0:00 – 2:17) Opening & Guest IntroductionCheryl Greenfield is introduced: her background as a nurse, tap dancer, boxer, TV host, and her own lived experience of trauma. (2:17 – 6:15) Coming Forward & Facing Re-victimizationCheryl shares the painful reality of speaking out—and how family, friends, and society responded with disbelief, blame, and shame. (6:15 – 9:00) Shifting the Silence: When Others Began to Speak UpHow Cheryl’s bravery led to over 22 women coming forward to file police reports and begin their own healing. (9:00 – 14:00) Suppression, Addiction & SurvivalShe describes the emotional fallout, her struggle with addiction, and how trauma bled into her work and personal life—even as a trauma nurse. (14:00 – 18:00) Spotting Trauma in the WorkplacePractical signs leaders can look for: social withdrawal, avoidance of engagement, and unexplained behavioral changes. (18:00 – 22:00) The Tug of War: Wanting to Be Asked, Fearing ExposureCheryl details the internal conflict survivors face—desperately wanting to talk, but terrified of being exposed. (22:00 – 27:00) How to Talk to Employees Without Forcing DisclosureTips for managers and HR: use reflective language, build trust, and avoid generic “how are yous.” (27:00 – 30:00) Breaking the Cycle: Empowered by TraumaCheryl’s turning point from suicidal ideation to finding coaching through the Pursuit Institute—and her realization that she didn’t have to stay in survival mode. (30:00 – 35:00) Coaching vs. Traditional TherapyWhy coaching worked where therapy didn’t: actionable tools, affirmation practices, and mental reprogramming. (35:00 – 39:00) The Daily Practice of Becoming a ThriverCheryl describes the practical tools she now teaches—affirmations, journaling, and reprogramming limiting beliefs—and the mission behind Empowered by Trauma. Resources & Support: Visit: EmpoweredByTraumaNow.com Schedule a call: calendly.com/cherylgreenfield1961 U.S. & Canada Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial or text 988 Pursuit Institute – Coaching certification and mental wellness training Closing Message:You are not alone. If you're feeling the weight of trauma or know someone who is, let Cheryl's journey inspire your first step toward healing. Share this episode, open the conversation, and help shield the vulnerable by showing them they're seen, believed, and supported.