Becoming the Woman I Envisioned: Audra Carpenter’s Story of Healing, Strength & Identity
Aug 27, 2025
On this week’s episode of the Leading With Heart podcast, I had the honor of welcoming back a very special guest, Audra Carpenter. Two years ago, Audra joined me to share her story during a season when she was simply trying to survive. Today, she returns with a powerful testimony of growth, healing, and becoming the woman she once only envisioned.
Surviving vs. Thriving
When Audra and I first connected, she described herself as surviving life rather than living it. A military veteran and devoted mom, she carried the weight of shame, self-doubt, and unresolved trauma. Deep down, she longed to thrive, to feel confident, present, and at peace in her own skin. That desire brought her into the Lead Your Life program, not once, but twice.
Through coaching, retreats, and community, Audra began to uncover the version of herself she had buried beneath fear and past pain. One of the pivotal tools was creating an identity statement — a vision of the woman she wanted to become.
The “I Did It” Moment
Fast forward to this year, when Audra found that very statement tucked away in her notes. Reading it brought tears, because she realized something incredible: she had become that woman.
Her words about being confident in her own skin, forgiving herself, and standing taller were no longer a dream — they were her reality. That moment of recognition, the “I did it” moment, is exactly why we do this work. It’s proof that transformation is possible when you commit to the process.
The Work Behind the Transformation
Audra’s journey wasn’t easy. She faced difficult truths in therapy, courageously worked through trauma, and leaned on community when she needed support. She also rebuilt trust in herself through consistent small actions, like showing up at the gym every day and tending to her mental health.
She discovered that confidence doesn’t just appear; it grows when you keep promises to yourself, set boundaries, and allow others to witness your journey.
A Ripple Effect of Healing
Today, Audra isn’t just thriving — she’s inspiring others to do the same. By sharing her story with honesty and courage, she reminds us that none of us are alone in our struggles. Her healing is creating ripples of hope for women who need to hear, “If she can do it, so can I.”
Final Thoughts
Audra’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and choosing to do the hard work of healing. Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step matters. As Audra says, “Small steps still move you forward.”
If you’ve been longing to feel more confident, connected, and free, let this episode be the encouragement you need: the version of yourself you dream of is already within you.
RESOURCES:
Listen to Audra’s previous episode:
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https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/retreats
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Join the Strong and Resilient Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/336774597179247
SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode78
