
The Laughing Survivor: A Story of Resilience with Alexandra Ford
02/14/24 • 62 min
In this powerful episode of the True Grit and Grace podcast, host Amberly Lago sits down with Alexandra Ford, a courageous advocate who transformed from a trafficking survivor to an inspiring activist. Alexandra unveils her remarkable journey of resilience, navigating through the harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse, grappling with drug addiction, and falling victim to exploitation by a trafficking boyfriend.
This candid discussion dives into the crucial need to lift the veil of shame surrounding challenging topics, as Alexandra sheds light on her own experiences to facilitate open communication. The conversation explores the multifaceted aspects of human trafficking, unraveling the grooming process that often precedes such exploitation.
Alexandra shares her personal path towards healing and empowerment, emphasizing the urgency of shifting the narrative from scrutinizing why individuals stay in abusive situations to empowering them to recognize and respond to unhealthy relationships. Listeners are invited to tune in to gain profound insights into trafficking awareness and discover ways to support survivors on their healing journey.
Key moments in the episode:
Unveiling the connection between childhood trauma and trafficking (05:28).
Exploring the emotional isolation experienced within trafficking (09:30).
Confronting the impact of childhood sexual abuse and self-hatred (26:06).
Navigating through mixed emotions and fear in the face of exploitation (32:25).
Recognizing signs of being triggered and addressing them (40:12).
Empowering parents and caregivers to "trafficking-proof" their kids (44:35).
Join us for this inspiring episode as we contribute to the awareness of trafficking and empower individuals to become advocates for change in support of survivors on their journey to healing.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Follow Alexandra:
If you are ready to leave your mark by discovering your message and sharing it with the world, you've come to the right place!! Let's work together to build your influence, your impact, and your income! Join the tribe you have been waiting for to activate your highest potential and live the life you deserve! Join the "Unstoppable Life Mastermind!" and let us know you are ready for greatness! Read the "True Grit and Grace" book here and learn how you can turn tragedy into triumph! Thank you for joining us on the True, Grit, & Grace Podcast! If you find value in today’s episode, don’t forget to share the show with your friends and tap that subscribe button so you don’t miss an episode! You can also head over to amberlylago.com to join my newsletter and access free downloadable resources that can help you elevate your life, business, and relationships! Want to see the behind-the-scenes and keep the conversation going? Head over to Instagram @amberlylagomotivation! Audible @True-Grit-and-Grace-Audiobook Website @amberlylago.com Instagram @amberlylagomotivation Facebook @AmberlyLagoSpeaker
In this powerful episode of the True Grit and Grace podcast, host Amberly Lago sits down with Alexandra Ford, a courageous advocate who transformed from a trafficking survivor to an inspiring activist. Alexandra unveils her remarkable journey of resilience, navigating through the harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse, grappling with drug addiction, and falling victim to exploitation by a trafficking boyfriend.
This candid discussion dives into the crucial need to lift the veil of shame surrounding challenging topics, as Alexandra sheds light on her own experiences to facilitate open communication. The conversation explores the multifaceted aspects of human trafficking, unraveling the grooming process that often precedes such exploitation.
Alexandra shares her personal path towards healing and empowerment, emphasizing the urgency of shifting the narrative from scrutinizing why individuals stay in abusive situations to empowering them to recognize and respond to unhealthy relationships. Listeners are invited to tune in to gain profound insights into trafficking awareness and discover ways to support survivors on their healing journey.
Key moments in the episode:
Unveiling the connection between childhood trauma and trafficking (05:28).
Exploring the emotional isolation experienced within trafficking (09:30).
Confronting the impact of childhood sexual abuse and self-hatred (26:06).
Navigating through mixed emotions and fear in the face of exploitation (32:25).
Recognizing signs of being triggered and addressing them (40:12).
Empowering parents and caregivers to "trafficking-proof" their kids (44:35).
Join us for this inspiring episode as we contribute to the awareness of trafficking and empower individuals to become advocates for change in support of survivors on their journey to healing.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Follow Alexandra:
If you are ready to leave your mark by discovering your message and sharing it with the world, you've come to the right place!! Let's work together to build your influence, your impact, and your income! Join the tribe you have been waiting for to activate your highest potential and live the life you deserve! Join the "Unstoppable Life Mastermind!" and let us know you are ready for greatness! Read the "True Grit and Grace" book here and learn how you can turn tragedy into triumph! Thank you for joining us on the True, Grit, & Grace Podcast! If you find value in today’s episode, don’t forget to share the show with your friends and tap that subscribe button so you don’t miss an episode! You can also head over to amberlylago.com to join my newsletter and access free downloadable resources that can help you elevate your life, business, and relationships! Want to see the behind-the-scenes and keep the conversation going? Head over to Instagram @amberlylagomotivation! Audible @True-Grit-and-Grace-Audiobook Website @amberlylago.com Instagram @amberlylagomotivation Facebook @AmberlyLagoSpeaker
Previous Episode

Breaking Free From Narcissistic Abuse and Addiction with Azadeh Atzberger
In this edition of the True Grit and Grace podcast, Amberly Lago hosts a compelling conversation with her special guest Azadeh Atzberger, a transformation coach and three-time bestselling author renowned for her expertise in navigating narcissistic abuse and codependency. Join them in exploring the important subject of narcissistic abuse and the path to recovery as Azadeh unveils her 12 Steps for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
Dive into the profound journey of healing on both visceral and emotional levels as the discussion unfolds. Gain insights on achieving clarity and awakening your intuition to empower your personal growth. This episode is not to be missed, offering an inspiring dialogue that promotes resilience and elevates the quality of your life. Be sure to tune in and subscribe to the podcast for more episodes filled with inspiration.
Key Highlights:
- Embarking on the transformative journey of Narcissistic Abuse Recovery (2:34).
- Breaking free from the addictive cycle with a narcissist (11:33).
- Exploring unconditional love within the context of addiction (16:16).
- Liberating oneself from the chains of narcissism (24:07).
- Understanding narcissistic relationships and the healing process (30:28).
- Reflecting on the impact of childhood narcissistic abuse (36:58)..
Follow Azadeh:
If you are ready to leave your mark by discovering your message and sharing it with the world, you've come to the right place!! Let's work together to build your influence, your impact, and your income! Join the tribe you have been waiting for to activate your highest potential and live the life you deserve! Join the "Unstoppable Life Mastermind!" and let us know you are ready for greatness! Read the "True Grit and Grace" book here and learn how you can turn tragedy into triumph! Thank you for joining us on the True, Grit, & Grace Podcast! If you find value in today’s episode, don’t forget to share the show with your friends and tap that subscribe button so you don’t miss an episode! You can also head over to amberlylago.com to join my newsletter and access free downloadable resources that can help you elevate your life, business, and relationships! Want to see the behind-the-scenes and keep the conversation going? Head over to Instagram @amberlylagomotivation! Audible @True-Grit-and-Grace-Audiobook Website @amberlylago.com Instagram @amberlylagomotivation Facebook @AmberlyLagoSpeaker
Next Episode

Worthy: Transforming Lives with Jamie Kern Lima
In this episode of True Grit and Grace, host Amberly Lago sits down with the incredible Jamie Kern Lima, a highly successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and beauty industry innovator, widely recognized for her pioneering role in the creation of IT Cosmetics. Lima's journey to success is marked by resilience, creativity, and a passion for empowering individuals.
Apart from her contributions to the beauty industry, Jamie is an advocate for self-esteem and female empowerment. Recognized for her entrepreneurial achievements, Jamie has received numerous accolades, including being named one of Forbes' America's Richest Self-Made Women. Her philanthropic efforts include supporting causes related to education, women's empowerment, and healthcare.
In this episode, we celebrate the release of her latest literary work, New York Times bestseller "Worthy" which shares powerful insights on building self-worth, overcoming self-doubt, and living a fulfilling life. Jamie also discusses the difference between self-confidence and self-worth, the impact of societal expectations on self-image, and the importance of believing in your own worthiness. She also shares personal stories and practical tools from her book to help listeners elevate their businesses and lives.
Tune in to discover how to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace your true worth, and live a life filled with passion and purpose. Don't miss this empowering episode with Jamie Kern Lima on True Grit and Grace.
Notes:
Distinguishing self-confidence from self-worth [06:30].
Building shortcuts for self-worth [14:11].
Overcoming rejection and failure [19:14].
Embracing self-worth and body image positively [23:48].
Gratitude and book launch celebration [32:10].
Links mentioned in this episode:
Follow Jamie:
If you are ready to leave your mark by discovering your message and sharing it with the world, you've come to the right place!! Let's work together to build your influence, your impact, and your income! Join the tribe you have been waiting for to activate your highest potential and live the life you deserve! Join the "Unstoppable Life Mastermind!" and let us know you are ready for greatness! Read the "True Grit and Grace" book here and learn how you can turn tragedy into triumph! Thank you for joining us on the True, Grit, & Grace Podcast! If you find value in today’s episode, don’t forget to share the show with your friends and tap that subscribe button so you don’t miss an episode! You can also head over to amberlylago.com to join my newsletter and access free downloadable resources that can help you elevate your life, business, and relationships! Want to see the behind-the-scenes and keep the conversation going? Head over to Instagram @amberlylagomotivation! Audible @True-Grit-and-Grace-Audiobook Website @amberlylago.com Instagram @amberlylagomotivation Facebook @AmberlyLagoSpeaker
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