From Survivor to Advocate: Jimanekia Eborn on Trauma-Informed Healing and Reclaiming Your Life

In this powerful episode, Denise sits down with trauma specialist and educator Jimanekia Eborn to discuss healing from sexual assault, navigating complex trauma, and finding safety in uncertain times. Jimanekia, founder of Tending the Garden nonprofit and host of the Trauma Queen Podcast, shares her personal journey as a survivor and expert with over 17 years of experience in mental health and sexuality education. This conversation covers essential topics including: Understanding trauma: Complex trauma vs. acute trauma and how it shapes our lives The difference between somatic therapy and talk therapy for trauma recovery Practical grounding techniques using your five senses The trauma response of "fawning" and why it's a valid survival mechanism How to ask for support from your community during triggering moments Finding the right trauma-informed therapist (and why not all therapists are equipped for trauma work) Building resilience and safety during politically turbulent times The importance of joy and community connection in healing Why anger is informational and how to use it for positive change Listeners will learn actionable tools for regulation, how to create a personal grounding kit, the importance of interviewing therapists, and ways to show up for social justice work based on individual skills and comfort levels. This episode includes discussions of sexual assault and may be triggering for some listeners. Please practice self-care while listening. Jimanekia Eborn is a trauma specialist, educator, and strategist with over 17 years of experience in mental health, sexuality education, and survivor advocacy. She is the founder of Tending the Garden, a nonprofit organization that supports survivors of sexual assault from marginalized communities, and the host of the Trauma Queen podcast. Jimanekia’s work bridges care, culture, and systems change consulting with media, education, and wellness organizations on trauma-informed practices and equity-driven leadership. She is also the co-founder of CINTIMA, expanding representation in intimacy coordination across film and TV. You can follow her  @jimanekia You can follow this podcast @toomuchwithdlh and Denise @deniselovehewett Email [email protected] for any suggestions or advice.