
None of us is immune to tragedy. But when that tragedy comes in the form of abuse at the hands of someone we trusted—and maybe even loved—it leaves a wound that can take a lifetime to heal.
On the Tragically Beautiful podcast, we explore how the road from abuse—though long and winding—can lead to something truly beautiful. We focus on the lessons learned, relationships healed, and the courageous forging ahead with life, forever changed. While the tragedy sets the stage, the beauty is the story we tell.
What does “Tragically Beautiful” mean?
Tragic: Causing extreme distress or sorrow.
Beautiful: Pleasing to the mind and senses; of a high standard; excellent.
Together, these words capture the essence of rising like a phoenix from the ashes—finding excellence and light born from deep pain.
Each episode shares the unique journeys of individuals who have experienced this mysterious and powerful rebirth on the other side of abuse. Here, the beauty is the main character and the tragedy a supporting role. Let’s discover how the will to fight, the choice to grow better rather than bitter, and the hope for a better future create something truly beautiful.
Hi, I’m Kathy Wisniewski—Certified Health Coach, podcast host, and founder of True and Lasting Wellness. I created this podcast to hold space for the real, raw, and redemptive stories of life after abuse—and to share practical wisdom from professionals and experts who support healing. In my coaching practice, I work with Christian women to nurture their emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing through a holistic, faith-centered approach.
My own journey has shown me that tragedy doesn’t have to define us. Through Tragically Beautiful, I offer a space where stories of survival and transformation shine—bringing both hope and practical tools for thriving beyond pain.

Episode 059 - Courage, Connection and a Life Rebuilt: Navigating Divorce and Healing w/ Regina Hiremath
Episode 058 - Embrace Your Perfectly Imperfect Self w/ Jen Anderson
Episode 057 Your Past is Not Your Prison: Reclaiming Your Power w/ Terriane Palmer
Episode 056 - When Healing Leads to a Life Unbound w/ Jen Verser
Welcome to episode 060 of the Tragically Beautiful podcast. In this episode, Kathy is joined by Dana Diaz, a survivor of narcissistic abuse turned empowerment coach, as she shares her transformative journey from a childhood of trauma to escaping a 25-year marriage filled with manipulation and gaslighting. Discover the subtle red flags of emotional abuse, the neurological reasons behind trauma bonds, and practical strategies for breaking free. Dana's story is a beacon of hope, emphasizing the power of truth, self-love, and community in healing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling trapped in an abusive relationship or seeking clarity and empowerment to reclaim their life.

"You are so gentle, relatable and genuine in your delivery. Thank you for doing this, Kathy. Hope dissolves fear and builds strength. Even the smallest grain plants the initial seed of healing."

"I needed this today. Even 5 years out physically...this was the lift I needed to remind myself I don't have to fall down that hole emotionally today, I can pivot and give your podcast a listen instead."
So many of us have a story to tell - a story of tragedy. A story of beauty. A story of beauty that has come from tragedy. In this podcast we will be exploring the stories of individuals who have experienced that mysterious and wonderful rise, that rebirth that happens on the other side of abuse. But in these stories, the "beautiful" will be the main character and the "tragic" a supporting actor. Let's explore together the amazing things that can come out of the insatiable will to fight, the desire to let our situations make us better and not bitter and how sometimes our tragedies can be turned into something truly beautiful as we look toward the future.
Do you have a tragically beautiful story you'd like to share? Are you a professional, expert or thought leader that has valuable and actionable advice to offer to abuse survivors? You may be a great fit for the podcast! Express your interest in being a guest via the button below.
***10/23/25 UPDATE*** Due to the overwhelming influx of applications (thank you so much!!) I have temporarily disabled my application form.
Check back again often to see when applications are once again being accepted.
Join me on this incredible journey of healing, hope, and transformation. By subscribing to my newsletter, you’ll receive encouragement and inspiration right in your inbox to help you navigate your path, along with early access to everything happening in the True and Lasting Wellness and Tragically Beautiful worlds. Together, we’ll explore new horizons of growth, resilience, and the beauty that comes from reclaiming your life.
Let’s take the first step—are you ready?