Defiance of Silence - A Sacred Witness

Defiance of Silence – A Sacred Witness is a podcast for survivors, healers, and those who walk beside them. Together, we stand against the silence that isolates us, and embrace the silence that allows us to be truly heard.

Hosted by Valerie — a U.S. Army veteran, Nurse, survivor, and trauma-informed witness — the show was born from her own two-decade journey of healing from sexual trauma and the power of being witnessed. Through real and unpolished conversations, guests share stories of courage, grief, resilience, and awakening.

This is not therapy. This is not performance. This is sacred witness. A space where vulnerability becomes strength, and where no one has to carry their story alone.

New episodes release every other week.

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Defiance of Silence - A Sacred Witness

Susie - I Refuse to be a Victim

October 08, 2025 • Valerie Foglesong • Season 1 • Episode 4

A two‑piece swimsuit turned see‑through. A cabin in the woods. Years of silence that felt safer than the truth. Susan joins us to trace a line from early humiliation and assault to a life rebuilt on wise vulnerability, safe witnessing, and a stubborn kind of joy that doesn’t vanish when life gets loud. We talk about how shame sneaks in when adults laugh instead of protect, how silence becomes a habit that looks like strength, and how one brave share can unhook a story from your identity.

We get specific about what “safe space” really means—people who listen more than they talk, don’t moralize your pain, and hold your words with care.

You’ll hear practical ways to test trust with small disclosures, spot red flags, and use discretion without feeling like you’re keeping secrets. We map the move from triggers to glimmers, showing how tiny moments of safety slowly retrain the nervous system.

For those who hold space for others, we offer tools to witness without absorbing: journaling to move the weight of listening, debriefing with non‑identifying details to a trusted mentor, and simple rituals that return stories to their owners.

Susan’s faith frames her courage: testimony brings light, and light starves shame. Whether you connect through spirituality, community, or professional support, the path forward starts with one step—making a call, walking into a resource center, or telling one kind person. If you’ve ever wondered how to share your story without breaking yourself open again, this conversation is your guide and your companion.

If this helped, follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review so others can find these stories. Your voice matters—what part of this conversation stayed with you?

Susan lives in Virginia with her husband, she is a mother of three and Nanny to 8 Grandies. She has been mentoring and teaching for over 30 years. At twenty-eight years old, Susan fell in love with Jesus and God’s word in print. She takes the promise of Hope and overcoming wherever she goes, whether speaking to a large group, or just meeting a complete stranger. She can't help but share that God’s promises are bigger than any obstacle she or you face.

https://www.facebook.com/susan.dunning.77/

X @dunsuz

Contact Valerie

Remember YOU are loved and worthy of being witnessed!

If today’s episode stirred heavy feelings, you are not alone. Please reach out to a trusted friend or a professional if you need support: