That is the foundation of Lili’s Mission, an organization created to support women and survivors as they rebuild their lives with strength, dignity, and hope.

Founded by Liana Lastique, Lili’s Mission was built on the understanding that healing does not happen overnight—and it should not have to happen alone.

For many survivors, leaving an abusive situation is only the beginning. What follows can be uncertainty, emotional exhaustion, and the challenge of starting over. Lili’s Mission exists to help bridge that gap, offering support, resources, and a sense of community for those navigating life after trauma.

For Liana Lastique, the mission is deeply personal.

Her own experiences gave her a firsthand understanding of how abuse can affect every area of a person’s life—mentally, emotionally, and financially. It also revealed how easily survivors can feel isolated, even when surrounded by others.

Instead of allowing those experiences to define her, she chose to transform them into something meaningful. Lili’s Mission was created not from theory, but from lived understanding—making it a space rooted in both empathy and strength.

The organization is dedicated to reminding women that they are more than what they have endured. Through awareness, support, and advocacy, Lili’s Mission encourages survivors to reclaim their confidence and begin again on their own terms.

At its core, Lili’s Mission stands for one powerful belief: healing is possible, and no woman should have to rebuild her life alone.

As more conversations around abuse and recovery come into the spotlight, initiatives like Lili’s Mission are helping reshape the narrative—proving that even in the aftermath of pain, something purposeful and transformative can be created.

For women and survivors everywhere, that message is clear: your story does not end here.

The post Lili’s Mission: Founded by Liana Lastique, For Women and Survivors appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

That turning point came in 2013, when Myton went back to school. She eventually earned her master’s degree from MSUB in clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling, then moved between states for internships and to fulfill a HRSA contract working in Oregon. Having returned to Montana multiple times as an adult, she ultimately felt called back for good, bringing with her credentials that read like someone who’s been preparing for exactly this moment: Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.

But the plan was always to come back.

“Healing is possible, even after generations of trauma, addiction, and pain,” Myton says. “You can break the cycle, come home stronger, and help heal your family and community.”

That belief is the engine behind everything she’s building right now. Through Empower Counseling and Rehabilitation, the practice she founded, Myton is launching a series of three-day intensive family healing retreats in Hot Springs, Montana, running from June through September 2026. The retreats, called “Healing One Family, One Heart at a Time,” are designed for biological and chosen families working through trauma, addiction, grief, and relational challenges. Think therapeutic group sessions, somatic practices like yoga and breathwork, expressive arts, hot springs excursions, and structured recovery planning, all packed into a weekend roughly 30 minutes from Flathead Lake and less than two hours from Glacier National Park.

The team Myton has assembled reflects how seriously she’s treating this. Loretta J. Abbott, an LCSW, EMDR practitioner, and art therapist, facilitates therapeutic groups focused on family wellness and recovery. Jackie Evans, an E-RYT 500 yoga instructor, leads movement classes built around nervous system regulation and chronic pain management. James McClure, a painter and founder of The Brush & Chisel in Hot Springs, serves as the retreat’s lead artist. Caitlynn Myton serves as music coordinator, integrating piano and rhythmic grounding into the trauma-informed sessions. Kelly Van Der Gang, a spiritual care counselor with nearly two decades of hospice and hospital experience, provides emotional and spiritual support throughout. Wind Refuge Healing Center rounds out the team with Reiki instruction, and the retreats themselves are hosted at Sage Oasis, whose property and facilities provide the setting for the weekend’s work.

It’s a multidisciplinary approach that treats people as whole humans rather than a collection of symptoms. Myton’s framework touches biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions, which tracks with how she talks about addiction: as a family illness, not an individual failing.

What separates Myton from plenty of other clinicians doing good work is the personal stakes. She’s not approaching intergenerational trauma from a textbook. She lived through the kind of experiences her clients carry into sessions. She left a difficult chapter behind with kids depending on her and chose school over standing still. The retreat work she’s doing now isn’t a career pivot. It’s a dream she’s carried for over a decade, finally taking shape in the place where her own healing started.

Beyond the retreats, Myton also offers free support circles and individual remote therapy, lowering barriers for people who can’t afford or access traditional care. In 2024, she led a Teen Dialectical Behavior Therapy group, further reflecting her commitment to working with families across generations.

For someone who spent her early years watching difficult patterns shape her family’s story, Myton has spent the last decade rewriting it. Not by pretending the hard parts didn’t happen, but by turning them into something useful. Readers looking to connect with her work can visit Empower Counseling and Rehabilitation or find her on LinkedIn.

The post Mariah Myton Built a Career Around the Kind of Adversity She Grew Up With appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

The core idea is simple: build a dating app around respect and trust. HundRoses requires profile verification for anyone who wants to send messages. If you’re just browsing, verification isn’t necessary, but if you want to start a conversation, you need to prove you’re a real person. It’s a smart middle ground that filters out the fake accounts and bots without forcing everyone to hand over their ID just to look around.

The timing makes sense. Dating app fatigue isn’t just a complaint anymore, it’s a widespread problem. People are tired of endless swiping, dead-end conversations, and profiles that turn out to be fake or heavily misleading. The experience has become so predictable that users can spot a bot within seconds, and the constant stream of matches that never turn into actual dates has made the whole process feel pointless. HundRoses calls its approach “Swipe Less, Spark More,” and while that’s a tagline, it reflects what users have been asking for: platforms that prioritize genuine connections over keeping you addicted to the scroll.

Making verification mandatory for messaging is where HundRoses draws its line. Bumble and others have optional verification badges, but HundRoses is making it a requirement to communicate. That cuts through a lot of the noise that makes online dating feel exhausting. Anyone serious about meeting someone won’t mind the extra step, and everyone else gets filtered out automatically. It’s the kind of friction that actually improves the experience instead of degrading it.

The platform is currently in early access for singles in Canada and the U.S., offering VIP memberships to early adopters. This gives them room to refine the experience before scaling up, and the focus on North American users keeps things manageable instead of trying to be everything to everyone right away. There’s something to be said for a dating app that understands regional dating culture instead of applying the same algorithm globally.

HundRoses has an opening here. There’s real appetite for alternatives to the Match Corp ecosystem, and people are actively looking for dating apps that don’t feel like they’re designed to waste your time. The company is promising advanced matching algorithms and relationship-building tools tailored specifically for how Canadians and Americans date, which gives them a regional focus that the massive platforms can’t really deliver.

What makes the platform worth paying attention to is that verification requirement. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s a feature people have wanted for years that the big apps haven’t implemented as a standard. The difference between optional verification and mandatory verification for messaging is huge. It changes the entire dynamic of who you’re interacting with and eliminates the uncertainty that makes so many conversations feel like a waste of time.

If HundRoses can deliver on the respect and trust angle, they’re offering something that actually addresses why so many people hate using dating apps right now. That’s not a small thing when you’re competing against companies that have spent years perfecting the art of keeping you on the app without necessarily helping you find anyone.

Check out their website for more details, and follow along on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

The post HundRoses Is Taking on the Dating App Monopoly appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

1. Arctic Goddess Arctic Organ and Herb Superfood

Arctic Goddess is the ultimate act of self-care, a supplement made from reindeer organs and arctic plants designed to support hormonal harmony, energy, mood, and overall well-being. Whether you’re juggling it all or just want to feel more balanced and grounded, this daily superfood capsule puts you back at the center. Because this season, the best gift is one that gives back to your body.

2. A Professional Hormonal Health Consultation

True power comes from knowledge, especially about your own body. This gift is about taking command. A private consultation with a women’s hormonal health specialist provides the expert insight needed to manage health from the inside out. It is about moving past guesswork and getting a personalized, actionable plan to master your own well-being.

3. A High-End Light Therapy Lamp

Don’t just endure the winter months. Own them. A high-end light therapy lamp is a serious tool for regulating your body’s energy and mood. By delivering the full spectrum of natural sunlight, it allows you to take control of your internal clock and fight back against seasonal fatigue. This is not just a lamp; it is a way to maintain your edge and a sharp mindset, no matter the season.

4. Froya Organics Complete System For Mature Women’s Skin

Froya Organics harnesses Arctic botanicals and time-tested Nordic formulas to deliver visible results: fewer fine lines, boosted collagen, brighter under-eyes, and a natural, radiant glow. Powered by ingredients like cloudberry seed oil and arnica, this mature skin system is science-backed and free from harsh chemicals. It’s not just skincare — it’s self-respect in a bottle.

5. A Premium Silk Pillowcase and Eye Mask Set

Everyone who pushes themselves knows that recovery is just as crucial as the work. This gift improves the body’s nightly repair cycle. A premium silk pillowcase and eye mask set is a smart investment in your well-being. The smooth silk reduces damage to hair and skin, while total darkness from the mask encourages deeper, more restorative sleep. It is about waking up feeling not just rested, but truly ready for the day ahead.

6. A Curated Scented Candle or Diffuser Collection

A woman in command of her life is in command of her environment. A prestige scent collection from a house like Diptyque or Jo Malone is more than a luxury; it is a way to shape the feeling of a room. Scent is a powerful tool to help sharpen focus or signal the mind that it is time to unwind. This is about designing your space to fit your needs.

7. A Bespoke Journal and Pen Set for Inner Reflection

Clarity is a genuine advantage. In an age of digital noise, a high-quality journal and pen offer a private space to think clearly, sort through ideas, and set intentions. This is not passive reflection; it is an active process of checking in with yourself. It is where you can define goals, process challenges, and build the mental resilience needed to move forward.

8. A Set of Nordic-Inspired Home Ceramics

Strength is not always loud. Sometimes, it is found in quiet, deliberate choices. A set of minimalist, handcrafted Nordic ceramics reflects this idea. Bringing these pieces into daily life, for a morning coffee or a simple meal, is a statement of intention. It is about choosing quality over clutter and finding a sense of powerful, grounded calm in the essentials.

9. A Meditation and Mindfulness App Subscription

A strong mind is a true asset. A subscription to a premium app like Headspace or Calm is like a gym membership for your brain. It provides on-demand training to improve focus, manage stress, and build real mental resilience. This is about actively training your mind to handle pressure and maintain clarity.

10. An Exclusive Selection of Ice Wines

This is a toast to resilience. Ice wine is made from grapes that have not only survived, but thrived, under the intense pressure of a freeze. The result is a rare, concentrated, and unapologetically bold flavor. Gifting a selection of these exceptional wines is a celebration of strength, complexity, and the sweetness that comes from enduring the harshest conditions.

11. A Collection of Artisanal Nordic Foods

This gift is about fueling the body with authentic and uncompromising ingredients. A gourmet collection of artisanal Nordic foods is about experiencing flavors in their purest, most powerful state. From the antioxidant-rich cloudberry jam to the clean protein of smoked salmon, this is about nourishing the body with high-quality, straightforward excellence.

12. A Bespoke Wellness Retreat

Even the strongest person needs to recharge. A bespoke wellness retreat is a strategic pause to recalibrate and come back stronger. It is an investment in disconnecting from the daily grind to focus on what matters: your own physical and mental strength. Consider it a necessary reset, designed to restore energy, sharpen focus, and prepare you for what lies ahead.

13. A “Ritual” Gift Box for a Self-Care Evening

Everyone needs a dedicated way to recharge. This gift provides all the elements for an effective, restorative evening. A ‘Ritual’ box is more than just a bath; it is a thoughtful approach to self-care, with every component designed to detoxify, soothe, and replenish. It is the essential set for making sure you are fully rested and ready for whatever comes next.

The post 13 Gifts Every Woman Should Buy Herself This Season (Yes, We Mean Froya Organics & Arctic Goddess!) appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

As digital fatigue and social isolation continue to grow, Bebs steps forward with a radically different vision of what “connecting” should look like. It’s more than just another app – it’s a call back to human interaction, meaningful moments, and real-world experiences, all while giving a boost to small businesses nationwide.

From Match Lists to Real-Life Meetups

Tired of conversations that go nowhere? Bebs replaces swiping and small talk with action. Rather than scrolling endlessly, users send actual invites to meet at local spots – often starting with a prepaid restaurant reservation that takes the pressure off the first encounter.

With more than 2,000 partner venues across the U.S., Bebs generates real traffic for local restaurants while offering users a more intentional start. Each reservation guarantees a minimum spend for the restaurant, no matter what’s ordered. Go over the prepaid amount? Just pay the difference at the table – simple, smooth, and stress-free.

Restaurants can sign up in minutes and start seeing bookings the same day.

Building Trust From the Start

Safety and transparency are at the heart of Bebs. All restaurants on the platform undergo full identity verification. Users also have the option to verify their profiles with a government-issued ID, adding a “Verified” badge to show they’re serious – and real. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels safe to connect.

More Than “Connection”: A Marketplace of Meaning

Bebs is also a place to discover and gift thoughtfully. Integrated into the app is a growing marketplace of handcrafted products and personal gifts – ranging from artisan jewelry and flowers to curated gadgets and lifestyle items.

With a dropshipping setup, vendors don’t have to manage inventory and still retain full brand identity. Each business is featured locally, avoiding direct competition and giving them a chance to shine in their own space.

Small business owners can join instantly and reach users looking to share more than just a message – they’re looking to share something personal.

Coming Soon: Voice-First Social

Launching this summer, Live Audio Chats will allow users to join real-time conversations with people from around the world. Whether you’re practicing a new language, seeking company, or just craving real-time connection, these live voice rooms are designed to bring human warmth back into digital space.

AI That Gets You – Not Just Your Stats

The Bebs algorithm goes beyond basic filters. Instead of pairing based solely on location or looks, it uses behavioral insights, shared values, and emotional signals to surface people you might truly vibe with – even if they’re on another continent.

Aligning Energies, Not Just Profiles

For those who believe there’s more to chemistry than compatibility quizzes, Bebs offers a spiritual toolkit. Using systems like astrology, numerology, and the Chinese zodiac, the platform adds a deeper layer to the matching experience – bringing intuition into the equation.

Want to connect spontaneously in real life? Bebs Cards – physical cards with a personalized QR code – let you hand off your profile in an instant. No apps, no awkwardness – just one scan and you’re in.

Built for the Bold and the Open-Minded

Bebs isn’t trying to outpace industry giants – it’s creating a different category entirely. One where presence matters more than profile polish, where curiosity beats calculation, and where experiences take priority over endless swipes.

Whether it starts with a neighborhood dinner, a surprise live show, or a quiet conversation that lingers longer than expected – Bebs is here to bring people back to what matters.

Now available on the App Store and Google Play.
No limits. No games. No filters between you and a real connection.
Just one mission: get you to your first genuine moment.

For business collaborations or vendor sign-up, visit bebs.app

Company Name – Bebs App 
Contact Person – Bebs Press Team 
Contact Email press@bebs.app 
City – Los Angeles 
State – CA

The post Ditch the Apps, Do Real Life: How Bebs Is Redefining and Reviving Local Culture appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

By Taurea Avant, Founder of Book Profits Club & Author Allstars Magazine

Words are more than ink on a page — they’re seeds that grow into movements, healing, and hope. At Author Allstars Magazine, we don’t just celebrate books; we celebrate legacies. As we prepare for the Author Allstars Magazine Celebration on December 5th in Atlanta, GA, we’re highlighting 33 of this year’s 50 featured authors whose stories prove that books can change lives, shift cultures, and leave a mark that time can’t erase.

So, how do you do it? How do you write a book that outlives you?

Here are 13 tips for leaving a legacy with your words, interwoven with wisdom from the 2025 Author Allstars.

1. Write From the Fire, Not the Ashes

Your story doesn’t have to be wrapped up with a pretty bow before you share it. Some of the most transformative books are written in the middle of the journey, when the wounds are fresh, and the lessons are still unfolding.

“You may walk through fire, but you don’t have to come out burned.” — Wanda Monette Pearson

“Brokenness isn’t the end of the story. Once you know who you are, you stop settling for less.” — Charonica Fondren-Oliver

“My book came out of heartbreak and loss, but in writing it, I found peace and purpose.” — Tonya L. White

2. Know Your Why

A book without a clear purpose won’t leave an impact. Before you write, ask yourself: Who am I writing for? What do I want them to walk away with? When your “why” is strong, your words become unstoppable.

“People are so focused on the now, that they forget about 30 years from now. My message? Save for the future — your life depends on it.” — Lisa Stringer Bailey

“Financial freedom is for everyone willing to learn, stay consistent, and bet on themselves.” — Destinee Brown

“My purpose is to inspire girls to rise into leadership. This isn’t just a book — it’s a movement.” — Teri Lee Thompson

3. Be Raw, Be Real

Readers don’t want the highlight reel; they want the truth. When you share your authentic story — the pain, the lessons, the victories — you give others permission to be real too.

“Freedom begins with speaking your truth. Release what’s been holding you back.” — Coach Starr

“Social media might lie, but your healing is real. Take your power back.” — Laneè Smith

“I didn’t sugarcoat my journey — I showed the battle, and that’s why readers connect.” — April M. Jackson-Hunter

4. Turn Lessons Into Legacy

Your story is powerful, but your lessons are transformative. Don’t just tell people what you’ve been through — teach them what you’ve learned and how they can overcome, too.

“When we reclaim our power and share our gifts, we help heal the world.” — Crystal D. Woods

“It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. Healing is within reach.” — Dr. Angel Williams

“My book teaches resilience — because if I can rise, so can you.” — Marceline Williams

5. Speak Beyond the Page

A book is just the beginning. Use it as a springboard for speaking, coaching, and creating change. Your story deserves more than shelf space — it deserves a stage.

“Motherhood is not a limitation — it’s a superpower.” — Dr. DeShonda Jennings

“Empowering young girls creates tomorrow’s leaders. Let’s help them rise.” — Teri Lee Thompson

“Being an author gave me the courage to speak life into others publicly.” — Marline Cepoudi Duroseau

6. Give People Themselves Back

The best books act like mirrors. They help readers see their value, their possibilities, and their path forward.

“Love yourself. Stop comparing — being you is more than enough.” — Sonya R. Cooper

“Never stop chasing your dreams — your story can light someone’s way.” — Ryan Null

“I help readers see they are enough, even when life tells them otherwise.” — Kendra Thorpe

7. Blend the Personal and the Practical

Stories inspire, but steps transform. Pair your personal story with actionable guidance that readers can apply in their own lives.

“Rest isn’t a luxury, it’s a right. You are a priority.” — Nichica F. Melton

“Caregivers — asking for help isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom.” — Dr. Barbara Green

“I didn’t just share my journey — I gave readers tools to win their battles too.” — Patricia Pearson

8. Challenge Comfort Zones

If you want to create a lasting impact, you can’t play it safe. Address the hard truths. Write the book that makes people think, feel, and grow.

“Real leaders don’t perform — they transform. Lead with humility and courage.” — Dr. Tajiri Brackens

“You are not the character in your story — you are the author. Rewrite your reality on purpose.” — Shiraz Baboo

“Sometimes legacy means being the voice that says what others are too afraid to say.” — Royce Dixon Sr.

9. Keep It Simple, But Significant

Life-changing books aren’t always long or complex. A clear, heartfelt message delivered with simplicity can change someone’s life forever.

“Stop giving energy to what you can’t control. Focus on you.” — Coach DJ Jackson

“Self-care isn’t selfish. Choosing yourself is the most powerful thing you can do.” — Krystle “Krissy Vanity” Redding

“My book is simple — but its truths stick with you for a lifetime.” — CoWano Stanley

10. Use Your Book to Build Community

A book can open doors to connection. Use it to bring people together, host discussions, and create spaces where readers feel seen and supported.

“My book has sparked conversations that help people heal — that’s priceless.” — Dr. Rasheda Jackson

“Writing my story made me a voice for families navigating infertility. Now we heal together.” — Marline Cepoudi Duroseau

“My readers know they’re not alone — my book creates a safe place.” — Dr. Dawn Menge

11. Make Faith Your Foundation

If your faith grounds you, let it guide your writing. Legacy books often share hope, purpose, and encouragement drawn from a higher source.

“Your past doesn’t disqualify you from God’s grace — it qualifies you for His purpose.” — Ray Blackshire III

“Healing begins when you believe that grace is greater than your pain.” — Patricia Pearson

“Faith and finance go hand-in-hand — my book helps people see God’s plan for prosperity.” — Kendra Thorpe

12. Build Something Bigger Than a Book

Your book can be more than a standalone project — it can launch programs, workshops, or even a movement. Think beyond the pages and consider how you can use your story to keep impacting lives.

“Being an author gave me a platform to coach and mentor women globally.” — Kendra Thorpe

“My book isn’t just a journal — it’s a roadmap for rebuilding.” — Tonya L. White

“Books create opportunities for entrepreneurship — if you leverage them right.” — Dr. DeShonda Jennings

13. Remember — It’s Not About You

Your name is on the cover, but your book is for the reader — the one who needs hope, guidance, or courage to keep going. Write for them, and your legacy will take care of itself.

“When I share my story, I’m sharing survival — so others know they can overcome too.” — April M. Jackson-Hunter

“I don’t just write for me. I write for the one who thinks their story is over.” — Marceline Williams

“My words are for anyone who needs to know they’re not alone.” — Patricia Pearson

Join the Celebration

These insights are just a taste of what you’ll find in this year’s Author Allstars Magazine, where 50 authors from across the globe share their wisdom, stories, and strategies for impact.

On December 5th in Atlanta, GA, we’ll gather to honor these voices at the Author Allstars Magazine Celebration— a night to uplift authors who are changing the world one book at a time.

Your story matters. Your words matter. And when you choose to write with intention, you don’t just publish a book… you leave a legacy.

– Taurea Avant, Founder of Book Profits Club

The post Penning Your Legacy: 13 Ways to Make Your Words Outlive You appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

The cross-sectional study examined 103 women from Trinidad with an average age of 33.97 years, using anonymous surveys to explore the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and interpersonal functioning. Participants completed the Early Sexual Experience Checklist and the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems assessment to measure these variables.

Results showed women with no abuse history scored dramatically lower on interpersonal problem measures (63.56) compared to survivors of childhood sexual abuse (109.02), demonstrating the profound impact of early trauma on adult relationships, said lead researcher Dr. Bernadette Marson, a Clinical Consultant, Author, and Educator. The research was published in the Journal of International Women’s Studies as part of selected papers from the 9th World Conference on Women’s Studies.

Dr. Marson’s findings revealed disturbing patterns about abuse perpetrators and circumstances. Among women who experienced childhood sexual abuse, many were between 7 and 15 years old when first abused, while perpetrators ranged from 11 to 47 years old. A vast majority of survivors (67.4%) were abused by relatives, with cousins being the most common perpetrators (36.9%), followed by fathers (10.9%) and brothers (8.7%).

“Child sexual abuse is a pervasive social problem that can have long-term effects on women’s relationships because it makes them vulnerable to revictimization,” explained Dr. Marson. “Girls are more vulnerable than boys to be victims of CSA, and those abused by someone they trust are at higher risk of experiencing increased trauma and interpersonal problems.”

The study uncovered that most survivors (52.2%) experienced abuse five or more times, with 34.8% reporting that the abuse continued for a year or more. These prolonged experiences appear to correlate with more severe relationship difficulties later in life.

When asked about what drew her to this challenging field of study, Dr. Marson shared, “I started seeing these patterns in my clinical practice years ago. Too many women were struggling with the same relationship issues, and when we traced it back, childhood abuse was often at the root.”

Using standardized assessment tools, Dr. Marson identified several troubling patterns among survivors. CSA survivors scored highest on measures of “cold” interpersonal styles, followed by “exploitable,” “overly nurturant,” and “non-assertive” relationship patterns.

Those scoring high on the “cold” scale typically struggle to maintain long-term commitments and show little affection toward others, often exhibiting social anxiety and shyness. Individuals classified as “exploitable” tend to sacrifice their interests for others and may be at risk for further victimization – creating a cycle of relationship dysfunction that proves difficult to break.

The research identified significant correlations between several abuse characteristics and adult relationship functioning. Early onset of CSA strongly predicted more severe interpersonal problems later in life. Additionally, the use of force by perpetrators was closely related to interpersonal deficits in survivors.

Perhaps most troubling, intrafamilial abuse emerged as a significant predictor for future relationship problems. Women who experienced sexual abuse within the family reported overall greater interpersonal difficulties compared with non-abused participants.

“Given the difficulties adult survivors of CSA may experience by having poor-quality relationships, developing trusting relationships and positive responsiveness in their adult relationships is key for CSA survivors to improve their happiness,” Dr. Marson emphasized.

Her research provides compelling evidence that childhood sexual abuse has lasting negative effects on adult relationships. Dr. Marson argues that because CSA seriously impacts mental health and the overall well-being of future generations, it should be considered a public health concern requiring comprehensive intervention.

The study concludes that preventive measures are essential to address this widespread issue. Dr. Marson suggests implementing school-based education on CSA prevention, with children attending workshops focused on self-defense, safety steps, identifying body parts, boundary violations, and distinguishing between safe and unsafe contact.

“Identifying survivors of CSA who are at risk of experiencing interpersonal difficulties in relationships and identifying different approaches to support them in maintaining more satisfying, stable, and meaningful relationships would have fundamental public health and economic benefits,” Dr. Marson concluded.

For more information about Dr. Bernadette Marson and her work, visit her websites at bernadettemarson.com and marsonconsulting.com. Her research study can be accessed at the Journal of International Women’s Studies.

The post Childhood Sexual Abuse Leads to Lifelong Relationship Struggles According to Study appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

Born intersex with XX chromosomes, Emily’s identity was contested from day one. Though born with unmistakably female anatomy aside from one trait, her family refused to accept her reality, even attempting to legally erase the name “Emily” that nurses had scribbled on her birth chart. “I was Emily when I looked in the mirror… when I introduced myself to strangers,” she writes on her personal blog, RescueGirl557, where she documents life’s messiest truths with the kind of honesty that makes you shift uncomfortably in your seat.

At 16, when medical tests confirmed what she had always known—”You’re genetically female. You were born intersex. You have XX chromosomes”—her family’s response was what Emily describes as a “detonation” of rage. Not long after, her family staged what she bluntly calls a “tribunal” to condemn her identity and sexuality. Rather than crumble, Emily simply walked away, leaving behind a biological family that never truly saw her. “This isn’t a story about forgiveness,” she notes with characteristic directness. “It’s a story about survival.”

By 18, while most teens were worrying about prom, Emily had earned her EMT certification and joined a local fire department. She climbed ranks to become a Firefighter and Paramedic Lieutenant-Specialist renowned for handling rescue work “that most people couldn’t stomach.” Without a single cheerleader from her family, she built a career pulling strangers from wreckage and leading crews through chaos. After two decades watching humanity at its most broken moments and witnessing tragedies that “no human being should ever have to see,” Emily eventually stepped away. The toll had become evident in memories “that never fade, no matter how many nights I… drank myself to sleep”—quiet words that hint at the PTSD many first responders battle silently.

Her next chapter embraced a different kind of strength. She purchased a ranch house on Vermont farmland seeking what she calls “grit, utility, and freedom.” On cold mornings when most are still sleeping, Emily describes the satisfaction of true independence: “I wake up every morning in a house I wired, on land I protect, with things I built from scratch.” This fierce self-reliance became both practical necessity and personal philosophy after years of being told who she should be.

For nearly twenty years, Emily navigated a long-term relationship during which she effectively became mother to her partner’s niece. When the relationship eventually collapsed under its own weight, Emily maintained her fierce commitment to the young woman she helped raise, referring to her now as her “unofficially adopted daughter.” This unwavering loyalty speaks to something deeper than biology—family as an act of choice rather than circumstance.

It wasn’t until meeting Amelia, a fellow writer whose words first caught Emily’s attention online, that she discovered partnership without compromise. Their connection grew from intellectual sparks to something deeper. When Amelia later came out as transgender, Emily’s support never wavered, even as both women watched family members vanish from their lives. “We stood closer. We stitched a new family out of the thin air around us, made stronger precisely because it was chosen, not assigned,” Emily writes of their response to this painful dual rejection.

Their marriage defies convention—they maintain separate bedrooms by choice and have an open relationship—yet Emily describes it as “a life stitched together from understanding, patience, and a kind of love that never asked either of us to be anything other than who we already were.” In those words lives the hard-won wisdom of someone who spent decades trying to fold herself smaller to fit others’ expectations.

Emily’s blog reveals layers beyond her life story. She was mentored by Beat poet Allen Ginsberg in her youth (an experience she mentions almost casually), and her writing often slides between straightforward confession and passages that feel torn from poetry. Behind the words stands a polymath whose intellect refuses to be confined to a single discipline or perspective.

Beyond words, Emily’s eye for beauty manifests in her photography and urban exploration adventures. She tackles these creative pursuits with the same intensity she once brought to prying open crashed vehicles, writing: “I’m not built for mediocrity… I don’t fear obsession; I embrace it.” This restless perfectionism drives her to master whatever skills she deems necessary, whether fixing electrical systems or capturing abandoned buildings through her lens.

Maybe it was losing everything that gave Emily her fearlessness with truth. On her blog, she lays bare painful chapters not for clicks or sympathy, but because “truth doesn’t care if it makes people uncomfortable.” This extends to family relationships others might sugar-coat. In “An Open Letter to My Mom,” she confronts maternal denial head-on: “You are wrong about who I am… There was no ‘sex change.’ There was no ‘transition.’ There was only a girl—me—born as your daughter.”

Her writing style mixes gut-punch directness with unexpected poetry. “I carry a storm, and the storm carries me,” she writes, eventually realizing she was “never supposed to tame it… I was supposed to become it.” These metaphors of weather and wildness recur throughout her work, suggesting something untameable at her core.

Today, Emily finds healing in moments many overlook—the specific taste of morning coffee after fixing a fence, the particular warmth of sunset after a day’s honest labor. Despite everything, her writing reveals flashes of peace that feel hard-earned rather than accidental. “The coffee tastes stronger when you’ve earned your peace with blistered hands. The sun feels warmer when you no longer hide your skin,” she writes, finding meaning in calluses and sweat rather than validation.

In her own slightly exhausted words, Emily summarizes her journey: “I didn’t need happy. I needed honest. And that is exactly what I finally have.” On her Vermont farm, maintaining land “with blistered hands” and living life “without edits,” Emily Pratt Slatin stands as quiet proof that sometimes the strongest act is simply refusing to be anything other than exactly who you are—a story of resilience told not through inspirational memes but through a life lived stubbornly on her own terms.

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According to their public profiles and media reports, the pair – widely known as the Hamden twins – have built an impressive following of more than a million fans across platforms. Their reach spans approximately 600,000 Snapchat subscribers and half a million Instagram followers. Sources close to the twins claim their various online ventures generate annual earnings that may approach $5 million, though these figures haven’t been independently verified.

Though they’re best known for their modeling work, these sisters aren’t content to stay in just one lane. Lauren, described by those who know her as remarkably intuitive, has lately turned her attention to fashion design. She’s reportedly been working on what she hopes will become a clothing line capturing their distinctive aesthetic. Not to be outdone, Katie has been exploring music production, experimenting with different genres and hoping to eventually share her sound with their loyal fanbase.

When it comes to staying healthy, the twins have developed individual approaches. Katie, who has publicly shared her experience with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), has crafted a workout routine specifically targeting hormone balance. Meanwhile, Lauren focuses on strength training to maintain her health. The pair frequently share glimpses of their morning walks together on social media. They’ve also been open about their nutrition preferences, often discussing their protein-rich diets – including their documented enthusiasm for taco bowls and cottage cheese with fresh fruit.

Like many in the spotlight, they’ve weathered their share of storms. While they say most of their online interactions are overwhelmingly positive, they’ve had to develop thick skin. “We lean on each other through the good and the bad,” the sisters revealed in a recent interview. They’ve managed to spin criticism into motivation, using it as fuel for personal growth rather than letting it dim their shine.

Ask them about the secret to their success, and they’ll tell you it’s all about their unshakeable bond. “We wouldn’t be as successful as we are if we didn’t have each other to fall back on,” they shared during a candid moment. “We inspire each other to be better versions of ourselves.”

Industry insiders suggest their savvy approach to social media has led to impressive financial returns, with estimates placing their monthly earnings around $300,000 – though like many figures in the influencer world, exact numbers are difficult to verify. What makes their story particularly intriguing is how quickly they’ve built this empire, having only stepped into the influencer scene a few years ago.

In many ways, the Hamden twins exemplify a new breed of digital entrepreneurs. They’ve managed to blend personal branding, authentic content creation, and wellness advocacy into something that resonates with their audience. Their journey offers a glimpse into how social media influence can be transformed into a thriving business venture – though their meteoric rise remains more the exception than the rule in the competitive world of content creating.

The post Hamden Twins: Everything to Know About the Viral Sensations appeared first on Growth Illustrated.

A Fresh Approach to Teen Health

With a unique blend of science-backed programs, real-world applications, and a commitment to equity, For The Better Inc. is tackling a fundamental but often overlooked question: How can we make health and wellness more accessible, engaging, and sustainable for teens who face significant socioeconomic barriers? The answer lies in the organization’s groundbreaking, multi-pronged approach, which combines education, community involvement, and practical skill-building.

At the core of For The Better Inc.’s programs is the belief that knowledge alone isn’t enough—teens need hands-on, culturally relevant experiences to help them connect with the idea of wellness in a meaningful way. Through interactive cooking classes, social media challenges, and workshops on fitness and nutrition, Ajala’s organization brings health education out of the classroom and into the lives of teens in a way that is both accessible and actionable.

“Our goal is to empower teens to take control of their health with confidence,” explains Rasheedat Ajala, Executive Director of For The Better Inc. “We’re not only teaching them about nutrition; we’re helping them reframe what health looks like in their lives. For many, it’s the first time they feel they have a say in their health journey.”

Addressing a Critical Need in Minority Communities

For The Better Inc.’s impact comes at a crucial time. Studies show that health disparities in minority communities, particularly among African American and Latino youth, contribute to a higher risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. These issues are compounded by a lack of access to nutritious foods, safe spaces for exercise, and adequate health education—factors that are often taken for granted in more affluent communities.

“Health is a right, not a privilege,” Ajala continues. “Yet, the reality is that youth in marginalized communities often don’t have the same access to health education and resources as others. We’re here to bridge that gap, one program at a time.”

The statistics underscore the importance of For The Better Inc.’s work. Brooklyn alone has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in New York City, with health disparities disproportionately affecting its minority population. For The Better Inc. aims to disrupt this cycle by providing teens with the education and resources they need to make informed health choices, setting them up for a healthier future.

Innovative Programs Rooted in Community Engagement

For The Better Inc. is particularly known for its Better Health for Teens program, a comprehensive initiative that goes beyond traditional health education. This program provides hands-on workshops where teens learn to cook nutritious meals, understand nutritional labels, and explore the importance of physical activity. Through social media challenges, such as the popular “Soda-Free Challenge,” teens are encouraged to make healthier choices in a way that feels relevant to their lives. These activities not only foster healthier habits but also create a sense of community and support among participants.

The nonprofit’s success is further supported by partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, which provide financial backing and in-kind contributions to help sustain and grow For The Better Inc.’s efforts. Partnerships with organizations like Ponce Bank and Black Health allow the nonprofit to scale its programs while remaining deeply rooted in the community it serves. Together, they are building a sustainable model of health education that prioritizes both impact and accessibility.

“Our partnerships have been invaluable,” says Ajala. “They allow us to reach more teens and expand our programming to create an even bigger impact. It’s a model of collective investment in community wellness that we hope will inspire other cities to do the same.”

Changing Lives, One Teen at a Time

The true measure of For The Better Inc.’s success can be seen in the lives it changes. For many teens, joining the program is a turning point, giving them new perspectives on health and equipping them with practical tools for long-term wellness. Take the story of Aja, a high school junior who struggled with unhealthy eating habits before joining the program. Today, Aja is not only committed to making healthier choices but is also inspiring friends and family to do the same.

“I never thought I’d be the kind of person who cooks for fun or cares about what I eat,” says James, another participant. “But being part of For The Better Inc. made me see that health is something I can control. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about making better choices that work for me.”

Looking Ahead: Scaling for Greater Impact

With plans to expand its programming to other parts of New York and eventually nationwide, For The Better Inc. is poised to become a leading voice in youth health advocacy. By remaining focused on the needs of its community and constantly evolving to meet those needs, the organization is setting a high standard for what health education can achieve.

“Scaling our impact means reaching more teens with tools and support that can change their lives,” says Ajala. “It’s not just about teaching; it’s about empowering a generation to value their health and understand its importance to their futures.”

For The Better Inc. is a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. With its continued growth, the organization promises to leave a lasting legacy, proving that health isn’t just about individual choices but about creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. For the teens of Brooklyn and beyond, that future has never looked brighter.

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