Ep 48. From Trauma to TEDx: How Cristina P. Simmons Turned Grief, Cancer & Infidelity Into a Platform That Heals Other Women

What does it look like to walk through the fire — and come out restored? In this powerful episode of Mommas Who Lead, host Laura Caroffino sits down with bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and trauma-informed occupational therapist Cristina P. Simmons to talk about the kind of resilience most people never show the world.Cristina opens up about losing four children to a rare genetic syndrome, surviving a tumor in her femur that nearly cost her a leg, navigating infidelity in her marriage, and raising a son on the autism spectrum — all while battling severe anxiety and functioning depression from unprocessed trauma.But this isn't just a story of survival. It's a story of restoration.In this episode, you'll hear: What "functioning depression" actually feels like from the inside — and why so many moms are living it without knowing it How Cristina went back to school for her master's degree at 39 — in the middle of all of it The miracle Christmas night phone call that changed everything Why people-pleasing costs you more than you think — including yourself How unhealed wounds become patterns in your leadership, your parenting, and your marriage The 3 things every mom needs to hear about self-care, trials, and speaking her truth What the vagus nerve has to do with your anxiety — and how to regulate your nervous system today How Cristina's book Eat Your Feelings hit #1 on Amazon in five categories What Soul Story Collective is and how it helps women tell their stories on their own termsCristina's message is simple and powerful: Pain doesn't have to be your prison. It can become your platform.If you've ever felt invisible, depleted, or like your story is too messy to share — this episode is for you.Connect with Cristina: Website: cristinapsimmons.com Instagram: @cristinapsimmons Book: Eat Your Feelings on AmazonConnect with Laura: Website: lauracaroffino.com Instagram: @lauracaroffino