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Are you stuck in a cycle that you know isn’t right, but don’t know how to break free?

In my latest episode of The Vibe With Ky Podcast, I sat down with author and nonprofit founder Julie Barth to talk about something so many of us deal with but rarely talk about—healing from emotional abuse and trauma. Julie has been through the unimaginable. And yet, here she is, turning her pain into purpose.

We spoke about grief, loss, caregiving, emotional abuse, and how to rebuild your life when it feels like everything has fallen apart. And honestly? This conversation is one that I think many of us needed more than we realized.

Who is Julie Barth?

Julie is a writer, mother of six, and trauma survivor. She’s the author of Notes from a BlackBerry and the upcoming From Blackberries to Thorns and From Thorns to Blossoms. But her story doesn’t stop there. Julie is also the CEO and founder of the Colin James Barth Outreach, a nonprofit that helps women-led households in crisis find stability.

When Julie talks about emotional abuse, she isn’t speaking hypothetically. She’s lived it. From losing her first husband, Colin, to cancer while raising four small children, to parenting a daughter born with a rare genetic disorder, to surviving a second marriage full of emotional manipulation—Julie’s life experience gives her message depth, strength, and hope.

You can learn more about Julie and her books at juliebarthauthor.net.

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What We Talked About

Here are some of the key takeaways from our conversation:

1. Resilience Is More Than Bouncing Back

Julie defines resilience not as snapping back to where you were before, but finding joy in the midst of the hard stuff. “You have to ride the waves until you get back to shore,” she said. And when you’re in the middle of the storm, sometimes your only job is to hold on.

2. Signs of Emotional Abuse Are Often Subtle

Julie shared that emotional abuse doesn’t always start with shouting or insults. It can start with self-doubt, guilt, and small compromises. By the time you realize it’s unhealthy, you may already be deep in it. Recognizing those signs early matters.

3. Grief and Trauma Can’t Be Rushed

Whether it’s the loss of a loved one or the end of a toxic relationship, healing takes time. Julie reminded us that it’s okay to feel stuck sometimes—but staying stuck is not where your story ends.

4. Your Story Can Heal Others

Julie’s decision to write Notes from a BlackBerry wasn’t about becoming an author—it was about remembering. Her book helps people feel seen, and that reminder alone is part of the healing journey.

5. You Are Not Alone

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women experience severe intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Julie’s story is one of many—but it reminds us that healing from emotional abuse and trauma is possible.

Actionable Takeaway for You

If you’re in a place where you feel stuck—emotionally, financially, or relationally—take one small step today:

Write down three things you know in your heart to be true about yourself.

Start there. Remind yourself of who you are. Then reach out. Whether it’s a friend, a therapist, or a support group, you don’t have to figure this out alone.

FAQ

Q. What are some early signs of emotional abuse in a relationship? A. Some early signs include isolation from friends or family, constant criticism, gaslighting, and feeling like you’re walking on eggshells. The signs may not be obvious at first, but they build over time.

Q. Can writing actually help in the healing process? A. Yes. Expressive writing has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and PTSD. Julie’s experience supports this—her journaling turned into a published book that’s helped countless others.

Q. How can I support someone going through emotional abuse? A. Listen without judgment. Offer consistent support. Avoid telling them what to do. Instead, remind them of their worth and help them find safe resources when they’re ready.

Final Thoughts

Julie reminded me—and hopefully reminded you—that even in the middle of pain, it’s possible to choose healing. You’re allowed to let go of the shame. You’re allowed to protect your peace. And you’re allowed to start over.

If this episode touched you, I hope you’ll share it with someone who needs to hear it. The more we talk about healing from emotional abuse and trauma, the less alone we all feel.

Much love. Good vibes. – Ky