In this heartfelt episode, Mikita welcomes Lori Pappas, a woman who turned trauma into triumph and societal “supposed tos” into a life of her design. Lori shares her journey—from a childhood marked by religious trauma to building a successful business and selling it at 49, and moving to Ethiopia at 57 to empower marginalized communities. Through candid reflections, she reveals how she broke free from the “good girl” mold, healed from PTSD and found purpose in helping others discover their inner peace and wisdom. This conversation is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite the rules and live authentically.

Key Takeaways:

1. The “Good Girl” Trap Silences Us: Lori unpacks how being a “good girl” often means compliance and losing your voice—something she rejected early on, despite the cost.
2. Trauma Can Be a Catalyst: Her protective shell from childhood trauma helped her succeed in a man’s world, but it also kept her emotionally distant until she faced it head-on in her 50s.
3. Healing Unlocks Purpose: Confronting PTSD after her son’s accident set Lori on a path to self-awareness, leading her to a second career empowering women in Ethiopia.
4. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Moving to a new continent at 57 taught Lori the richness of different perspectives—and the complexity of creating change without imposing your lens.
5. Embrace Your Wise Woman Within: Lori’s message is clear—self-awareness, reflection, and shedding baggage allow every woman to tap into her inherent wisdom and live with intention.
6. Life Happens Now: Waiting for permission keeps you small; breaking the rules and betting on yourself is how you claim the life you want.

Resources Mentioned:

• Lori’s Website: loripappas.com
• Book: The Magic of Yes: Embrace the Wise Woman Within
• Newsletter: Sticky Thoughts
• Facebook Group: The Wise Woman’s Sisterhood
• Connect with Mikita: Slide into her Instagram DMs to share your thoughts!

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