In today’s episode of Heat Up Your Retreats, I open up more vulnerably than I ever have publicly. This is my raw, unfiltered testimony — a journey through childhood trauma, toxic relationships, addiction, abuse, loss, and hitting rock bottom… and how Jesus met me in the middle of my mess and rewrote my story with redemption, grace, and purpose.

If you’ve ever wondered whether God could still use you after everything you’ve been through, I want you to hear this clearly: He never gave up on me, and He hasn’t given up on you either.

This episode is for anyone walking through shame, feeling unworthy, or believing their story is too broken to be redeemed. My prayer is that my testimony becomes a reminder of God’s relentless love and the beautiful restoration He brings when we surrender our lives back to Him.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• My early years of faith and the childhood trauma that changed everything
• How abuse, loneliness, and shame shaped my teenage and adult decisions
• Toxic relationships, domestic violence, and the moment I fled to Europe
• Falling into addiction, dealing drugs, and losing myself
• The night everything fell apart — and how God used it to rescue me
• How moving back in with my parents became the turning point
• Sobriety, healing, rededicating my life to Christ, and rebuilding my family
• The scripture God used to anchor me through my redemption: Romans 8:28
• A powerful reminder that God can redeem any story, including yours

Why This Episode Matters

So many leaders, retreat hosts, and entrepreneurs carry silent wounds. We’re called to lead others, yet we forget that God wants to heal us too. Sharing my testimony isn’t about looking back with shame — it’s about showing the goodness of God and reminding you that your story is far from over.

Key Scripture

Romans 8:28 — “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.”

This isn’t just a verse for me… it’s my life.

Episode Highlights (Timestamps)

00:00 – Welcome to Heat Up Your Retreats

01:15 – Why I’m sharing my story publicly for the first time

03:02 – Childhood faith and the moment everything changed

05:14 – Trauma, shame, and rebellion as a teen

09:27 – Teenage pregnancy & discovering unconditional love

If This Episode Spoke to You…

Please share it with someone who needs hope, healing, or a reminder that God still writes beautiful stories from broken places.

And if you’re ready to step into the God-given vision for your retreat, ministry, or business, email me: amanda@acrossthehorizontravel.com

Subject line: Strategy Session

Thank You for Being Here

Thank you for allowing me to share such a sacred part of my story. Your support, your presence, and your willingness to grow with me mean more than you know.

Until next time…

Keep dreaming big, keep planning bold, and keep heating up your retreats.