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

Jeannette, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I joined the United States Army at the age of 21, this change my entire life as you could imagine. Prior to making this decision I was working 3 part time jobs and attending school full time and it wasn’t working out for me. I wasn’t responsible and woke up one day realizing I wanted more out of life then just workings, school, partying and waking up everyday and doing the exact same thing. I went to a recruiting office and left two weeks later. This was the best decision I could have made for myself at the time. It taught me responsibility, accountability and to trust myself as a person. I am proud to have served because every experience, whether good or bad made me into the woman I am today.

Jeannette, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

While serving in the military I experienced a lot of trauma, and I needed an outlet. I began by sharing parts of my story on social media and then realize, I have a lot more to say. I started a blog. I share my personal experiences of domestic violence, sexual assault and war. People began to share their stories with me and I realized, I was helping others break their silence of traumas they were holding in. I revamped my website and added a section for the community to share their stories and break their silence. I am now a motivational speaker who is transforming peoples relationship with their trauma and giving them power to break their silence. Surviving After Trauma was born out of me being broken and now I am proud that I am able to help others gain their power back.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think what people like is that I am relatable and open about my experiences. Building my brand has taken a few year to get to where it is now and it is always transforming into something better.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Sharing my journey has been a journey in itself. It isn’t always pretty nor easy and definitely not easy to hear. Having to counter folks who question why I was abused? or what I said that lead to altercations I had is something I still encounter. We as a society begin to ask the questions why without realizing that it may sound like you blame the victim for what has happen to them. This is a learning experience which I was able to be resilient and learn from. I have to take accountability for my reaction to these questions and respond to education and not belittle my audience, even if the comment is uncalled for because we all come different walks of life and understand someone’s trauma can be difficult. Grace and kindness – explanations and education is who I now respond to anything that may offend me but I know now most questions come from curiosity.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.wesurvivedtrauma.com
• Instagram: survivingaftertrauma
• Facebook: Surviving After Trauma
• Other: https://speakerhub.com/speaker/jeannette-garcia

Image Credits
Photo Fusion Studios – Main Headshot