"I celebrate life every day." - Koya Bakare

In this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom Podcast, host Janet Sandberg speaks with Koya Bakare, a model, pageant queen, and survivor of trauma. Koya shares her journey of overcoming sexual assault, bulimia, and suicide attempts, emphasizing the importance of therapy, self-love, and empowerment. She discusses how her mother's support and her experiences in pageantry helped her find her voice and advocate for others. Koya encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories and reminds them that healing is possible, urging them to take control of their narratives and celebrate life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Koya's Journey

01:43 Overcoming Childhood Trauma

06:56 The Role of Therapy in Healing

14:04 Finding Self-Love and Empowerment

19:31 Embracing Pageantry and Advocacy

23:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery

26:51 Healing Through Vulnerability

29:10 Creating Your Own Narrative

31:58 The Power of Words and Self-Expression

35:41 Embracing Your Unique Story

38:35 Finding Joy in the Present Moment

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In Crisis?

Canada:

Talk Suicide Canada call 1-833-456-4566 available 24/7. Between the hours of 4pm-midnight (Eastern time) you can text 45645 or text 988

In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Contactez un intervenant par texto au 535353. Service offert 24/7 partout au Québec

If you are under 18, call Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868. They offer 24/7 text service. You don’t need a data plan, internet connection or an app to use it.

If you’re in imminent danger call 911 or go to Emergency.

USA:

Call or text 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

Call 911 in life-threatening situations.

Keywords: trauma, healing, self-love, empowerment, pageantry, mental health, resilience, therapy, personal growth, advocacy, suicidal ideation, suicide prevention, bulimia, eating disorder, trauma