Growing Tall Poppies Podcast Season 2, Episode 31

From Darkness to Light: Navigating Self Acceptance to Thrive After Trauma

Podcast| Growing Tall Poppies| Season 2
September 08, 2025•2 min read

Growing Tall Poppies Podcast: Season 02, Episode 31 (#72)

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In this week’s episode of Growing Tall Poppies, Dr Nat Green sits down with the incredible Malisa Hepner - spiritual coach, healer, and advocate for self-acceptance. Together, they explore how trauma can become a gateway to transformation, and how embracing every part of ourselves (even the messy bits) is the key to thriving after hardship.

Malisa’s story is both raw and inspiring. After experiencing extensive childhood trauma, she found herself burnt out in adulthood and struggling with her mental health. Instead of giving up, she chose to give healing one more chance. That decision transformed her life. She quit her job, launched a podcast, opened her own practice, and began teaching others how to let go of shame and embrace unconditional self-love.

Through this conversation, Malisa shares how self-acceptance, authenticity, and spirituality can help us move from survival into true thriving.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

  • Why self-acceptance is the foundation of post-traumatic growth

  • How identity, purpose, and spirituality are interwoven in healing

  • Practical ways to reclaim your inner voice and reset your path

  • Moving beyond survival mode into true thriving

  • Breaking free from old mental health narratives and writing your own story

Episode Highlights & Takeaways

  • Trauma doesn’t have to define your story - it can become the beginning of transformation.

  • Healing isn’t about perfection, but about wholeness and self-acceptance.

  • Spirituality doesn’t need to fit into a box - it can simply be a reconnection with yourself and something greater.

  • By healing ourselves first, we create ripples of change in our families, communities, and the wider world.

  • Creative projects, spiritual practice, and tools like the Finding Peace Workbook and Malisa’s Identity Workbook can provide practical pathways toward growth.

Learn More & Connect with Malisa Hepner

Want to dive deeper into Malisa's work? Here’s how to connect with her:

Next Episode

👉 S02E32: Coming Soon

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Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be deemed or treated as psychological treatment or to replace the need for psychological treatment.

Growing Tall Poppies Podcast

Hosted by Dr Nat Green, this podcast empowers individuals to rise above trauma and create lasting transformation. Each episode features inspiring stories, expert advice, and practical strategies to help you break free from adversity, build confidence, and thrive. Tune in for real conversations that inspire personal growth and resilience.