In this deeply moving episode of Courage to Heal, Anna sits down with Rhoda Banks, motivational speaker, coach, and author of the powerful memoir Daughter of an Assassin. Rhoda shares her extraordinary story of growing up amid violence, intergenerational trauma, and emotional neglect – and how she rose above it all to become a successful executive and advocate for healing and self-worth.

Together, Anna and Rhoda explore themes of childhood trauma, survivor’s guilt, emotional neglect, body image, forgiveness, faith, and personal transformation. Rhoda’s honesty and resilience will resonate with anyone who has struggled with feeling unworthy or burdened by their past. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, and your legacy is yours to write.

Check Out Rhoda's Book

Rhoda's Website

In this episode of Courage to Heal, Anna speaks with Laurel Roberts-Meese, licensed psychotherapist and founder of Laurel Therapy Collective, about the power of EMDR therapy for healing trauma. With warmth and clarity, Laurel walks us through the eight phases of EMDR, explains how it rewires the brain’s trauma responses, and offers practical insights for those considering EMDR for PTSD or complex trauma. Whether you're an EMDR-curious client or a fellow therapist, this conversation sheds light on why EMDR is so effective—and what to expect from the process.

You can find Laurel here.

What is a trauma trigger—and why does it have such a powerful grip on your nervous system? In this episode of Courage to Heal, we explore what trauma triggers are, how they form, and why they show up in everyday moments. You’ll learn how to recognize your unique triggers and gently regulate overwhelming emotional responses. Anna shares two powerful somatic tools—the Spiral Technique and the Picture Technique—to help you feel safer in your body and reclaim your sense of peace. This episode is a must-listen for trauma survivors who want practical strategies and compassionate insights to better understand their emotional landscape.

Check out the Emotional Overwhelm Toolkit