Nicki Pappas: Unmasking Spiritual Abuse in 'As Familiar as Family'
I experienced abuse as love from a young age. In As Familiar as Family, I explore and examine the ways in which I was groomed for unhealthy relationships and toxic religion.
Ever felt like the very place meant to nurture you was instead a source of pain? In this compelling episode of 'Speaking Up with Andrew Pledger', Nicki Pappas returns to discuss her powerful memoir, 'As Familiar as Family'. Nicki dives into her experiences of childhood abuse and the toxic religious environment that shaped her early years.
She candidly explores how spiritual abuse, power imbalances, and emotional detachment in the church were ingrained in her life, almost as familiar as family itself. Nicki’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery. She talks about the moment she realized that what she had been taught as love was actually abuse, setting her on a path to reclaim her voice and leave behind unhealthy relationships.
Her journey is not just about breaking free but also about holding abusers accountable and spreading awareness about spiritual abuse. Throughout the episode, Nicki emphasizes the importance of self-love and finding a healthy relationship with oneself. Her reflections are raw and honest, offering a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with similar issues. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to understand the complexities of spiritual abuse and the road to healing.
Join Andrew and Nicki as they unpack these heavy yet crucial topics, providing insights that are both informative and deeply personal. Whether you’re dealing with religious trauma yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on healing and recovery.