When It Worked Podcast JEOPARDY: Ep. 275
- Wendy Bowers
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- Apr 15
- 2 min read
About Allicia Johnson Niles
I grew up in the shadow of my dad's murder since I was a toddler. I've lived in a constant state of fight or flight, being hyper aware and afraid of death and deep rooted, irrational fear that my dad's killer was "out there". Come to find out, he really was! My soon to be released memoir "Angel in Arlington" goes into detail about how I used Unlikely Courage to face my greatest fears, solve my dad's murder and come to a peace I didn't believe possible! I now live a happy fulfilling life despite being plagued with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). Losing my dad to homicide wreaked havoc on my psyche. Not only did I deal with fears that were embarrassing to me, but I believed I was a second class person. I was a people pleaser as a result who was an easy target for all kinds of abusers and bullies; thus the CPTSD. I understand eating disorders, feeling worthless and being emotionally, financially and sexually abused. I'm not afraid to talk about my past, because every time I do, it opens the door for others to face and overcome their traumas. Conversation and connection come very easy to me. I even have my BS in Communication (no pun intended) and as an author, I have a knack for putting thoughts and experiences into succinct phrases. I also believe in peer based support. Some of my greatest healing has come when I learn that I'm not alone in how I feel or what I've gone through. I firmly believe that there is such a great need for people to have community and connection, and to be given permission to voice their pain so they can also ultimately heal. This is why I'm using my voice, to give others a chance to use theirs.
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