Why I'll Never Stop Using My Voice

There was a time when I didn't think I would ever have a voice again.

After surviving an attempted murder in 2012, I had to learn how to heal physically, emotionally and spiritually. Standing in front of a room of strangers and sharing the most painful chapter of my life once felt impossible. My voice shook. My heart raced. I wondered if anyone would even care?

But I quickly realized something powerful:

Our stories aren't meant to stay hidden. They're meant to become someone else's hope.

Today, I speak for 4 groups of people who are always on my heart:

• Those who are still trapped in abusive relationships and cannot yet see a way out.

• The survivors who are free but still silent, held back by fear, shame or the belief that no one will understand.

• Those who simply don't know. The people who ask, "Why doesn't she just leave?" because they've never been taught about the realities of abuse.

• The angels who lost their lives to domestic violence and no longer have a voice of their own.

  
  

Every time I step on a stage, I hope to reach each of them.

I believe words have the power to change lives. Sometimes all it takes is one sentence, story or moment of courage to help someone leave an abusive relationship, ask for help or begin healing. Your voice may be the key that unlocks someone else's prison.

When I first started speaking, I was terrified. I questioned whether I was enough. But I trusted that God had saved my life—and my voice—for a purpose. Every audience that welcomed me, every survivor who shared their story afterward, every parent, student, first responder, advocate or community member who told me my message made a difference reminded me why I must keep saying YES.

If there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's this:

Life happens just outside your comfort zone

The first time I shared my story, I was filled with fear. Today, after hundreds of speaking engagements and interviews. I still get butterflies before I walk onto a stage.

The difference is that I've learned courage isn't the absence of fear.

Courage is choosing to show up anyway.

Growth happens when we're willing to step into the uncomfortable. It happens when we trust God more than our fear. Every opportunity that has stretched me has also strengthened me.

So if you're waiting until you feel "ready," don't.

Use your voice... even if it shakes.

You never know whose life may be changed because you chose to speak.

My Journey of Speaking & Inspiring

Since 2012, I have been honored to share my story with audiences across the world. While this list is not exhaustive, it represents many of the schools, conferences, hospitals, victim advocacy organizations, law enforcement agencies, colleges, faith communities, businesses and community events where I've had the privilege of speaking.

Recent Speaking Highlights

• Florida Attorney General's Victims' Rights Week Ceremony, Florida State Capitol, Tallahassee (2026)

• Marion County Night of Hope, Keynote Speaker (2025)

• Teen Dating Violence Awareness Panel, Florida Department of Children and Families, Tallahassee (2024)

• Law Enforcement Domestic Violence Training, Pasco-Hernando State College

• Samaritan House VA & Women Against Violence Luncheon, Keynote Speaker (2021)

• Polk County Domestic Violence Symposium, Keynote Speaker

• Hope's Door Teen Dating Violence Symposium, New York

• Safe Haven Ministries Fall Luncheon, Grand Rapids, Michigan

• Willow Center "Heroes Among Us" Luncheon, Rochester, New York

• Christy's Hope "Still Standing" Luncheon, Texas

• CASA Annual Crist Gala, Keynote Speaker

• Sunrise of Pasco County Peace Breakfast, Keynote Speaker

• Bayfront Health Trauma Survivor Luncheon, Keynote Speaker

• Women's 360 Expo with the Pasco Sheriff's Office, Keynote Speaker

• Abuse, Neglect & Dependency Conference, Keynote Speaker

• Southern Medical Association National Medical Summit

• National Charity League "Moms & Daughters" Event, San Antonio, Texas

Schools, Colleges & Youth Programs

One of my greatest passions is speaking with young people. Prevention begins with education, and honest conversations today can change someone's future tomorrow.

Over the years, I've spoken with thousands of students at high schools, middle schools, colleges, universities, PACE Centers for Girls, juvenile programs and youth leadership events throughout Florida, Michigan and beyond.

Community Organizations & Professional Training

I've also had the privilege of speaking to hospitals, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, victim advocates, Rotary Clubs, churches, domestic violence agencies, nonprofit organizations and conferences throughout North America. Whether I'm speaking to a room of 20 people or an audience of thousands, my mission and purpose remains the same:

To offer hope.

To educate.

To challenge perspectives.

To inspire courage.

To remind every person in the room that they are stronger than they think.

Are you looking for a speaker? Whether your event focuses on resilience, overcoming adversity, domestic violence awareness, mental health, women's empowerment, leadership, healthcare, law enforcement, faith or finding purpose after life's hardest seasons, I'd be honored to share my story and the lessons perspective has taught me.

If you believe your audience could benefit from a message of hope, healing, forgiveness, resilience, and the power of perspective... Let's start the conversation.

I'd be honored to serve your organization and inspire your audience. Complete my Speaking Inquiry Form, and let's create an unforgettable experience together!

With Gratitude,