Break That Cycle

In this episode of Break That Cycle, we introduce a new series called Wednesday Recap — real conversations inspired by a Tuesday night women's group hosted by an MMH employee. Each week, a topic is brought to the table, and the group dives deep into honest discussion. On Wednesdays, we recap those conversations and unpack the themes together. This week's discussion centers around three powerful relationship topics: Roles in a relationship — who does what, and why? Entitlement — when expectations become unhealthy Discouragement vs. encouragement — how the words we use shape connection This episode is about self-awareness, accountability, and growth. Whether you're single, married, dating, or rebuilding, these conversations are meant to challenge thinking and strengthen relationships. Sometimes breaking the cycle starts with how we show up for each other. 00:00 – Intro 00:58 – Roles in a relationship 28:23 – Entitlement 54:09 – Discouragement vs. Encouragement

In this episode of Break That Cycle, we sit down with Pearl Chiarenza, founder of Women's Successful Living, to talk about finding empowerment, purpose, and inner strength after unimaginable loss. Pearl shares her personal story of losing her son and the long, difficult road of grief that followed. Instead of allowing tragedy to define her, she chose to transform her pain into purpose — helping women uncover their worth, reclaim their confidence, and move forward even when life feels unbearably dark. In this conversation, we explore: Pearl's journey through loss and how she learned to keep going Tools for coping with tragedy, grief, and emotional pain How women can rediscover their inner beauty and strength during hard seasons The mission behind Women's Successful Living, her books, speaking work, and empowerment programs This episode is for anyone who has experienced loss, heartbreak, or hardship — and is searching for a way forward. Pearl's story is a reminder that empowerment isn't about avoiding pain, but learning how to rise through it. 00:00 – Intro 01:09 – Pearl's story and the loss of her son 28:43 – Navigating grief and finding purpose 55:54 – Tools for healing and self-empowerment

In this powerful episode of Break That Cycle, we sit down with Dotti Groover-Skipper, founder and CEO of the HeartDance Foundation, to expose the realities of human trafficking and the urgent need for awareness right here in our communities. Dotti's journey into advocacy didn't begin in policy rooms or headlines—it began with lived experience, calling, and decades of frontline work. Today, she is one of Florida's most respected voices in the fight against human trafficking, having helped shape statewide initiatives, trained faith communities, educators, businesses, and law enforcement, and supported survivors of exploitation in rebuilding their lives. In this conversation, we break down: What human trafficking really is (and the many forms it takes) How trafficking hides in plain sight—far beyond the stereotypes Warning signs and red flags people should know What to do if you suspect someone is being trafficked The mission and impact of HeartDance Foundation and how they support survivors This episode is educational, eye-opening, and deeply human. Whether you think trafficking "doesn't happen here" or you want to better protect your family and community, this is a conversation everyone needs to hear.

In this episode of Break That Cycle, we sit down with Eleanor Saunders, Executive Director of ECHO of Brandon, to talk about what food insecurity really looks like in our community — and how families can find stability, dignity, and hope even in the hardest seasons of life. Eleanor didn't found ECHO, but she grew up in the organization — starting as a volunteer and rising into the CEO role. With nearly two decades of hands-on leadership, she's helped ECHO grow into a place where people can not only get groceries and clothing, but also restart their lives through job coaching, life skills training, and essential support. We dig into: Eleanor's personal journey and the moments that fueled her passion for helping families in crisis What food insecurity looks like today, why it's growing, and how employment ties into long-term stability What people can do when they feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed in hard times The mission and programs of ECHO — and how this nonprofit changes lives every single day Whether you're struggling, looking to help someone else, or wanting a deeper understanding of the challenges families face, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and real-life solutions. 00:00 – Intro  01:15 – Eleanor's story & why she chose this work 25:56 – Tools for hope, stability & employment 53:33 – The mission of ECHO of Brandon

In this powerful episode of Break That Cycle, Chief Dookie sits down with Freddy Barton, Executive Director of Safe & Sound Hillsborough, to talk about what it really takes to make our communities safer and stronger. Freddy's been on the front lines of youth violence prevention, reentry, and community engagement — turning hard truths into actionable change. Together, they dive into the realities of youth gun violence, the importance of community leadership and mentorship, and how early intervention can stop the next generation from repeating the same destructive cycles. Freddy shares stories from his years of work in Tampa's toughest neighborhoods, the challenges of changing mindsets, and the victories that prove transformation is possible. This conversation is raw, real, and packed with hope — a reminder that breaking the cycle starts with showing up, speaking out, and believing that everyone deserves a second chance.

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Break That Cycle, we sit down with Ebenie Gordon, who walked out of jail less than a year ago after more than a decade of charges ranging from theft to assault. With a rap sheet that could have defined her forever, Ebenie chose instead to use her last stint behind bars as a turning point. While incarcerated, she earned her diploma, completed a welding program, and secured certifications in OSHA10, forklift operation, and scissor lift use. Since her release in October 2024, she's found steady work, bought a car, and is relying on her faith to keep moving forward. We talk about: The reality of living with a record that spans over a decade How she turned her time inside into an opportunity for growth The challenges of reintegration and starting over after incarceration Her message to others still caught in the system Ebenie's story isn't polished — it's real. It's proof that second chances exist, and that redemption is possible when determination meets opportunity.

In this powerful episode of Break That Cycle, we sit down with Earlishia Oates, founder of the I-Supplies Foundation, to talk about what it truly means to survive—and then turn that survival into purpose. A mother of four and a fierce community advocate in Tampa, FL, Earlishia opens up about her journey, the moments that shaped her, and the fight she's been leading to create a better future for families in underserved communities. From navigating her own struggles to being featured in The New York Times for her bold housing advocacy, Earlishia doesn't just talk about change—she lives it. We dive into her mission to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline, her work as an ombudsman for families in crisis, and the message she's been shouting from every rooftop: "We must do better for our kids." Whether you're a parent, a community leader, or someone just trying to survive your own struggle, this conversation will leave you inspired, challenged, and hopeful. 00:00 – Intro 01:17 – Earlishia's roots and personal journey 26:06 – The I-Supplies mission and community work 50:13 – Earlishia's vision for the future and message to the next generation 👉 Linktree – https://linktr.ee/breakthatcycle Connect with Earlishia and I Supplies: 🌐 Website: https://isuppliesinc.org/

This month on Break That Cycle, we sit down with Emma Martin, founder of Full Range Foundation, to talk about what it really takes to build a healthy relationship—even after years of toxic patterns and broken trust. Emma opens up about her rough childhood, the mistakes she made as a toxic partner, and the affair that rocked her relationship before marriage. Together, we break down the lessons learned, boundaries set, and tools they now use to keep their marriage strong. 💬 If you've ever questioned what a healthy relationship looks like—or how to repair a broken one—this episode is for you. ⏱️ Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Intro 00:51 – What does an unhealthy relationship look like? 22:52 – How to ensure your relationship is healthy. 46:11 – Emma's journey creating Full Range Foundation 🔗 Listen on other platforms: 👉 Linktree – https://linktr.ee/breakthatcycle  📌 Connect with Emma & Full Range Foundation: 🌐 Website: https://www.fullrangefoundation.com/

In this powerful episode of Break That Cycle, Cheryl Hickman joins us to talk about the kind of abuse that often goes unseen: narcissistic manipulation behind closed doors. Raised in a home ruled by control and emotional chaos, Cheryl carried trauma into her adult relationships—marrying a man who continued the cycle of abuse, this time cloaked in charm and public perfection. Cheryl opens up about what it's like to question your own reality, to be dismissed by family, and to wrestle with addiction just to make it through the day. But her story doesn't end there. She fought her way out, cut ties with toxic family dynamics, and found peace on her own terms. Today, she runs Hope For Her, a nonprofit organization that supports women escaping domestic violence—often with nothing but the clothes on their back and the will to survive. This episode is about more than narcissism—it's about naming your pain, owning your truth, and building something that helps others heal too. Biblical Perspective: https://applygodsword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-narcissism-16-signs/  https://applygodsword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-forgiveness-and-reconciliation/  https://grace-being.com/love-relationships/self-healing-from-narcissistic-abuse/ Dealing with Narcissistic Mothers: https://www.simplypsychology.org/daughters-of-narcissistic-mothers.html  https://www.choosingtherapy.com/symptoms-of-daughters-of-narcissistic-mothers/#:~:text=Narcissistic%20mothers%20see%20their%20children,them%20to%20get%20their%20compliance. Facts about Narcissist: https://barendspsychology.com/narcissism-facts/ https://grace-being.com/love-relationships/narcissistic-personality-disorder-statistics/ 

In this powerful episode of Break That Cycle, Christy shares her deeply personal journey from trauma to triumph. A survivor of sexual assault and spousal rape, Christy opens up about the darkness she faced, her battle with alcohol, and the strength it took to fight her way forward. Today, she's a licensed mental health counselor and founder of V.O.I.C.E.S Against Sexual Assault, a nonprofit helping survivors heal through a structured, compassionate 10-week program. This episode is a raw, honest, and inspiring look at what it means not just to survive—but to rise and lead others out of the silence. Brought to you by Mary & Martha House

In the debut episode of Break That Cycle, we sit down with Heath—a man whose story is as raw as it is redemptive. After surviving childhood sexual abuse, years of trauma in the military and law enforcement, and multiple suicide attempts—including a misfired gun that should've ended it all—Heath made a choice: to live, and to lead others away from the edge. This conversation dives into the silent struggles that so many carry, the signs we often miss, and what it truly takes to keep going when life feels unbearable. Heath now dedicates his life to being a lifeline for others battling darkness, proving that purpose can be found on the other side of pain. This is more than a story—it's a message of survival, truth, and transformation. Brought to you by Mary & Martha House