Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alicia Tappan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Alicia, thanks for joining us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

In 2022, I finally entered rehab for the final battle against alcohol. I found out that I was actually struggling with a chemical imbalance and mood disorder, and was escaping with the need for serotonin. I walked out after 5 days and am working to be 4 years sober on April 26th, 2026. Consequently, 3 months after rehab, I found myself in a head-on collision where my car was totaled, I was rushed to the ER, given dozens of tests, and finally told by the doctor, “Well, Alicia, no broken bones, no internal bleeding, congratulations, you are pregnant!” Right there in the ER hallway. This was child #3, totally unplanned and unbeknownst to me.

9 months later, after working full-time for 6 years as the Executive Director for a safe house/advocacy center, my boss gave me an ultimatum after months of empty promises- find childcare, or I will have to be replaced by someone else. I was devastated. When I chose to leave because of the lack of opportunity for childcare, my boss slapped a noncompete agreement on my desk with the full expectation that I would sign my story, my hard work, and all the connections I had made through my survivor leadership. I did not sign.

One week later, organizations began to call, and one offered to pay my mortgage and hire a cleaning lady for me for 3 months while I built my own nonprofit. Survivor-Led Solutions was birthed 3 weeks after the delivery of my 3rd son. I started slowly but built quickly. I found that if I was struggling with leadership and professional development issues, tokenism, lack of equal opportunities, and being looked over from seats at decision-making tables, my WHY became helping survivors of sex trafficking who needed business and leadership skills to advance their careers.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Alicia Tappan is a nationally recognized survivor leader, author, and award-winning public speaker dedicated to empowering others through trauma-informed advocacy and storytelling. As the author of *Brave Girl Diaries*, she has created a powerful platform that amplifies the voices of survivors while promoting healing, resilience, and personal transformation. Drawing from her own lived experience, Alicia brings authenticity and depth to her work, breaking down stigma and inspiring hope in individuals and communities alike.

With a passion for leadership development, Alicia has become a driving force behind survivor-led initiatives that center on dignity, education, and sustainable change. Her work focuses on equipping survivors with the tools, confidence, and opportunities needed to reclaim their narratives and step into leadership roles. Through her speaking engagements, she captivates audiences with her honesty, strength, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Alicia’s impact extends beyond the stage, influencing systems, organizations, and policies that support survivors of trauma and exploitation. Her voice continues to shape conversations on trauma-informed care and survivor empowerment, making her a trusted and influential leader in this space.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My entire journey is one of resilience. I was trafficked at 17 years old by the coach in my high school. He stole my credibility as National Honor Society & Student Council President, he filmed my rape and stole my innocence, and he stole my character- my reputation.

And still I stand… I put him in prison, finished college, started a business, built a family, wrote a book series, and am currently creating the very first Survivor Leader Certification Program to educate survivors on how to win their lives back.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Word of mouth, grass roots, integrity, dignity, perseverance, and solid branding of my organization.
Optimism, focus on faith, and ALIGNMENT.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.survivorledsolutions.org
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/survivorledsolutions
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/aliciaharriott
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/aliciaharriott

Image Credits

Alicia Tappan- my photos