Sept. 9, 2026

The Girl Who Learned to Survive

The Girl Who Learned to Survive

This episode discusses childhood trauma, domestic violence, and violence involving an animal. Listener discretion is advised.


Host Susanne Cookson takes us back to the little girl who learned how to survive. She reflects on the complexities of childhood trauma, domestic violence, and her journey to understanding herself, her relationships, and the panic attack that made her stop in her tracks.


She shares her experience growing up in an unpredictable and often dangerous home environment. She reflects on the lessons learned from her childhood, the coping mechanisms she developed, and the moment she decided to run away at the age of fifteen.


She looks back on her childhood, exploring how early experiences shape coping mechanisms and resilience, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and the patterns that emerge in adult relationships.