Ep.135 Motherhood, Trauma & Forgiveness, with Becca Stevens

Send us Fan Mail Can love really heal trauma? In this deeply moving conversation, Becca Stevens, founder of Thistle Farms, shares how childhood trauma shaped her life's work of helping women survivors of abuse, addiction, exploitation, and human trafficking reclaim their freedom. Becca opens up about the personal experiences that inspired her to create Thistle Farms—a global nonprofit providing safe housing, meaningful employment, trauma-informed care, and lifelong community for women rebuilding their lives after unimaginable hardship. Together, we explore what healing truly looks like, why forgiveness is a lifelong practice, the critical role of economic empowerment in breaking cycles of abuse, and how simple acts of love can transform lives. Becca also reflects on motherhood, resilience, faith, and why community is one of the most powerful forces for lasting recovery. Whether you're navigating your own healing journey, supporting someone you love, or simply looking for a story that restores hope, this episode offers wisdom, compassion, and practical insight into the power of love and human connection. In this episode, you'll learn: How childhood trauma shaped Becca Stevens' life and mission The inspiring story behind Thistle Farms Why healing requires both emotional support and economic opportunity How women survivors of abuse and human trafficking rebuild their lives Why forgiveness is a daily practice—not a one-time decision The importance of community, belonging, and unconditional love Lessons on resilience, motherhood, purpose, and hope If this conversation resonates with you, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could use a reminder that healing is possible. Chapters 00:00 – Who Is Becca Stevens? Meet the Founder of Thistle Farms 02:59 – How Did Motherhood Shape Becca Stevens' Mission? 06:06 – Healing from Trauma: Breaking Common Misconceptions 09:09 – Inside "Love Heals": What the Book Is Really About 11:57 – Real Stories of Transformation at Thistle Farms 15:07 – Why Community Is Essential to the Healing Process 18:04 – Can Forgiveness Be Practiced? A Daily Approach to Letting Go 20:47 – Why Economic Empowerment Matters for Recovery 24:00 – How Do You Overcome Mom Guilt and Comparison? 27:00 – The Power of Simple Acts of Love (And Why They Matter) 30:04 – What Role Does God Play in the Healing Journey? 33:00 – Final Thoughts and How You Can Take Action Today Resources Free: How Emotionally Healthy am I? Self-assessment Checklist Interested in leading a MomQ gathering? Click here Thistle Farms Website Find TF Bug Repellent Here Support the show Discover more about MomQ