In this powerful episode of the Dead America Podcast, host Ed Watters sits down with Malisa Hepner—author, speaker, podcast host, and licensed clinical social worker—to explore her transformative journey from trauma to healing.
Malisa opens up about her childhood marked by neglect and abuse, sharing how she overcame profound emotional darkness to discover her purpose. Through spiritual awakening and entrepreneurial courage, she now dedicates her life to helping others heal—one story at a time.
Listeners will gain insight into how toxic family environments shape social development and how inner work can lead to lasting personal growth. Malisa discusses the therapeutic power of storytelling and podcasting, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, emotional resilience, and self-acceptance.
This episode offers practical tools for embracing every part of yourself, even the wounded ones, and highlights the role of vulnerability in building strength. Whether you’re on your own healing journey or supporting someone through theirs, Malisa’s story is a beacon of hope and transformation.
Tune in to discover how embracing your truth can lead to empowerment, purpose, and peace.

00:00 Introduction and Dopamine Highs
00:54 Meet Malisa Hepner
03:02 Malisa’s Background and Early Life
06:51 Struggles in School and Social Life
10:25 College Years and Early Adulthood
20:25 Podcasting as Therapy
30:16 Malisa’s Services and Offerings
34:41 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Website
https://www.empoweredwithmalisahepner.org

Social media links
https://www.instagram.com/malisa.hepner/
https://www.facebook.com/

#embracingyourtruth