S3:EP7 WHEN YOUR FIRST BULLY WAS HOME

What happens when the first person who made you feel small wasn't a kid at school, but someone you loved? In Episode 7 of The Quiet As Kept Podcast , Shawnti Boswell gets personal about what happens when criticism, fear, physical punishment, emotional neglect, unpredictability, or abuse becomes part of a child's definition of home.

Children don't always have the language to say, “This environment is affecting me.” They adapt. They become quiet, funny, perfect, independent, invisible, helpful, tough, or hyperaware of everybody else's mood.

Then those children grow up. And sometimes the survival skills that helped them make it through childhood show up in their adult relationships, parenting, self-esteem, boundaries, and ability to feel safe.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Shawnti also explores what children can learn from witnessing unhealthy and abusive relationships, and why experiencing or witnessing abuse does not mean someone is destined to repeat it. This episode isn't about blaming parents forever.

It's about finally understanding what happened, what you learned from it, what you're still carrying—and what you're ready to put down. Sometimes healing begins with admitting: Home wasn't always safe just because it was home.

National Domestic Violence Hotline currently lists 24/7 support by phone at 800-799-SAFE (7233) , text by sending START to 88788 , and live chat. It also warns that internet activity can be monitored, which is why I kept the digital-safety line in the script.

Send us Fan Mail Support the show Shawnti Boswell is an Award Winning Master Certified Mental Health Coach, Keynote Speaker, and Author of the best-selling book, “Quiet As Kept”, specializing in guided journaling for mental wellness. After overcoming severe depression and anxiety through journaling, Shawnti developed her own program, empowering individuals to heal and thrive without medication.

She is the creator of Shawnti Refuge Journals, which carries a series of guided journals designed to help others release past traumas. With her relatable, no-nonsense approach, Shawnti's mission is to inspire personal growth and self-awareness.

She is the founder of Stayin' Stuck Ain't Cute Coaching and a passionate advocate for mental health in both business and community settings. Website: Social media: IG: @shawntibsays FB: Shawnti Boswell, MA, CMHC TikTok: @shawntibsays YouTube: @shawntibsays