Flying Free - podcast cover

Flying Free

Natalie Hoffmanflyingfreenow.com
Flying Free is a support resource for women of faith who need hope and healing from hidden emotional abuse, spiritual abuse, and narcissistic abuse. Because of misogynistic theology taught in controlling and spiritually abusive churches, many Christian women find themselves in destructive marriages where there is an uneven power dynamic. Male partners use their status as a husband to gain power and control over a woman’s mind, emotions, body, social life, finances, and more. When she tries to get help from her equally abusive church environment, she is betrayed and re-abused. Flying Free offers a Christ-centered, gospel-oriented perspective on domestic abuse that protects and honors the voices and autonomy of women. Tune in each week to hear conversations with emotional abuse advocates and fellow survivors who will walk with you on your journey up and out. We hear you. You are not alone. Learn more at https://flyingfreenow.com
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Episodes

The Crushing Cost of Control [Flying Higher Moment 017]

What if the thing keeping you stuck… is your death grip on trying to hold it all together? In this short and fiery episode, Natalie calls out the spiritual hustle we’ve been sold—and gently offers a better way. If you’ve been clinging to control, overthinking your faith, or quietly drowning under “good Christian woman” expectations, this one’s for you. You don’t need to strive harder. You need to breathe, unclench your jaw, and finally release what’s not yours to carry. Press play and feel the s...

Apr 05, 20258 min

Can I Gaslight Myself? Part Two [321]

Welcome back, butterflies! In this episode, I’m joined once again by my friend and fellow coach, Diana Swillinger. We’re diving into the second part of an important topic today: Can we gaslight ourselves? Gaslighting is usually something done to us—manipulation that makes us question our reality. But what happens when we internalize it? When we start running the script on autopilot and doubting ourselves before anyone else even gets a chance? Buckle up, because our Kaleidoscope members had some ...

Apr 01, 202537 minEp. 321

Fear: The Frenemy in Your Head [Flying Higher Moment 016]

Fear. It creeps in when you’re trying to sleep, whispers worst-case scenarios while you’re washing dishes, and makes you second-guess yourself every time you try to take a brave step forward. But here’s the truth: not all fear is bad. In fact, some of it is a God-given superpower ... and some of it? More like an overactive smoke alarm when you've just made toast. In this Flying Higher moment, we break down the two kinds of fear— clean fear that protects you and dirty fear that keeps you stuck. Y...

Mar 29, 202512 min

Am I Gaslighting Myself? Part One [320]

In today’s episode, I am joined by life coach and fellow survivor advocate Diana Swillinger to explore a fascinating and often misunderstood topic: Can you gaslight yourself? We dive deep into what gaslighting is, how it manifests in relationships, and whether people unconsciously manipulate their own thoughts and emotions as a survival mechanism. This candid discussion sheds light on self-doubt, emotional survival, and the process of breaking free from harmful thought patterns. Key Takeaways: D...

Mar 25, 202537 minEp. 320

Help! My Kids Are Acting Like Their Dad! [319]

In this episode we’ll talk about a struggle that many Christian women face after leaving an emotionally abusive marriage—parenting children who sometimes exhibit the same unhealthy behaviors as their fathers. Through real-life examples and compassionate insights, I explore why this happens, how mothers can reframe their perspectives, and practical steps they can take to strengthen their relationship with their children while continuing their healing journey. Key Takeaways: Understanding why kids...

Mar 18, 202531 minEp. 319

Feeling Triggered? [Flying Higher Moment 014]

Let’s talk about triggers . You know, those moments when someone says the “wrong” thing, and suddenly you’re ready to flip a table? Most of us see triggers as a bad thing—proof that we’re too sensitive, too emotional, or just plain too much . But what if I told you that your triggers are actually pointing you toward healing? In this week’s podcast episode, we’re unpacking: ✔️ What triggers actually are (hint: they’re not just annoying mood-ruiners) ✔️ Why they happen (spoiler: your brain is just...

Mar 15, 20259 minEp. 1

What Do We Do About Wicked People? [318]

In today’s episode, I explore the difficult and often shocking realization that wickedness exists in the world—and sometimes within our closest relationships. Responding to a listener's inquiry and using insights from Adam Young’s “The Place We Find Ourselves” podcast, we’ll unpack the biblical definition of wickedness and discuss how it operates. I’ll also share personal experiences and strategies for recognizing and dealing with destructive individuals. Key Takeaways: The Bible differentiates ...

Mar 11, 202533 minEp. 318

How Creativity Can Help You Heal from Emotional and Spiritual Abuse [Flying Higher Moment 013]

What if I told you that creativity isn’t about painting or poetry—it’s about how you live ? How you take the broken pieces of your story and shape them into something new, something beautiful, something yours . For too long, you were told who to be, what to believe, and how small to make yourself. But here’s the truth: You were created to be a powerful co-creator in your own life. And in this episode we’re talking about how to break free from perfectionism, fear, and old conditioning so you can ...

Mar 08, 20256 min

How Do I Deal with His Rage? [317]

In today’s episode, I answer a question about surviving a husband’s rage while still in the home and preparing to leave. I want to share insights on coping strategies, the importance of unhooking from an abuser’s words, and how to create a safety plan. If you're living in survival mode, this episode offers encouragement and practical steps to help you move toward freedom and healing. Key Takeaways: Fear is a natural response to an abusive environment. Trying to "toughen up" emotions to endure ab...

Mar 04, 202513 minEp. 317

Feeling Like You Don’t Belong? Here’s Why You Might Be Wrong [Flying Higher Moment 012]

Have you ever felt like you don’t belong anywhere—like you’re floating between worlds, disconnected from faith, family, or community? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into a powerful shift happening in Christianity, where people are seeking belonging before belief . But what happens when you feel like you don’t belong anywhere ? We unravel the truth about belonging, challenge the cages we’ve been taught to stay in, and explore what it really means to be free. If you’ve ever questioned ...

Mar 01, 202527 min

How Do I Know if Divorce Is the Right Choice for Me? [316]

In today’s episode, I explore the complex question: Is divorce worth it? For women who have endured long-term emotional and psychological abuse in marriage, this decision is often fraught with fear, confusion, and uncertainty. I examine the disadvantages of staying in an abusive relationship, as well as the significant challenges faced during and after the divorce process. With thought-provoking questions and practical insights, this episode will help you assess whether leaving your marriage is ...

Feb 25, 202548 minEp. 316

Messy Rooms: A Flying Higher Moment 011

What if the real problem isn’t the messy room, the frustrating coworker, or the difficult conversation—but the lens you’re seeing it through? In this episode, we dive into the story of Sarah, a mom who transformed her daily frustration by shifting her perspective using the CLEAR model. If you’re ready to reclaim your peace—without waiting for anyone else to change (because we all know THAT ain't happenin')—this episode is for you! Join me and hundreds of other Christian women leveling it up in m...

Feb 22, 20257 min

Broken Trust: When Church Hurts You [315]

In this eye-opening episode, Natalie shares her personal story of spiritual abuse and excommunication, offering a powerful backdrop for her conversation with author and spiritual consultant, Remy Diederich. Together, they delve into the dynamics of toxic faith, spiritual abuse, and how unhealthy church cultures can harm individuals and families. Remy, the author of Broken Trust , shares insights from his decades of ministry experience and his passion for helping people heal from spiritual abuse....

Feb 18, 202552 minEp. 315

Christianity After Religion: A Flying Higher Moment 010

If you’ve ever side-eyed church culture and thought, “This can’t be what Jesus had in mind,” you’re not alone. In this episode, we dig into Christianity After Religion by Diana Butler Bass and talk about why the old way of doing church is crumbling—and why that’s actually good news. If you’re tired of toxic religion but still crave something real, this conversation will give you hope, validation, and maybe even a little fire to keep going. Join the Flying Higher Butterflies as we study the Bible...

Feb 15, 202512 min

How to Be the Parent Your Child Needs During Divorce [314]

In this episode of the Flying Free Podcast, I address a listener's heartfelt question about how to talk to a three-year-old child about an abusive father while navigating divorce proceedings. I provide insights on child development, emotional regulation, and practical strategies to support both mother and child through this challenging transition. I also share ways to document healthy parenting for court proceedings and offer encouragement for mothers seeking to break generational cycles of abus...

Feb 11, 202527 minEp. 314

Reading the Bible as a Survivor [313]

In this thought-provoking episode of the Flying Free Podcast, I sit down with author and essayist Liz Charlotte Grant to explore the complexities of faith, scripture, and healing after spiritual trauma. Liz’s debut book, Knock at the Sky , delves into the questions many of us grapple with during deconstruction and offers an artistic, fresh approach to reading the Bible. If you’ve ever felt disillusioned by literal interpretations of scripture or struggled to reconcile the Bible with the harm inf...

Feb 04, 202558 minEp. 313

Parallel Parenting Part Two [312]

In today’s episode, we’re continuing my conversation with life coach Diana Swillinger on parallel parenting. We’re diving into some of the tough questions you’ve sent in, like how to manage parallel parenting without falling into parental alienation, what to do when parenting styles and rules differ across homes, and how to handle situations where your kids prefer one parent and refuse to visit the other. We also talk about creating emergency plans to keep your children safe—both emotionally and...

Jan 28, 20251 hr 5 minEp. 312

Parallel Parenting Part One [311]

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the topic of parallel parenting—what it means, why it matters, and how it can empower you as a mother to create a home filled with love and stability, even when co-parenting feels like a battlefield. We explore how to rise above emotional manipulation, operate from a place of peace and truth, and model resilience for your children. Whether you’re navigating parallel parenting or seeking emotional clarity, this episode is full of practical wisdom and hope. Re...

Jan 21, 202542 minEp. 311

Who Can You Trust? A Flying Higher Moment 009

Trust is complicated—especially after experiencing disappointment or hurt. Is it possible to fully trust anyone? What does it take to build trust, and where should it start? In this episode, we explore these questions, challenge common assumptions about trust, and share a fresh perspective on building stronger, healthier relationships. You won’t want to miss this episode—it might just change the way you think about trust forever. Would you like to be part of my live mentorship program, Flying Hi...

Jan 18, 20258 min

What if My Abusive Husband Has Mental Health Issues? [310]

What if my abusive husband has mental health issues? Drawing on listener input, I tackle the complexities of abuse intertwined with mental health diagnoses such as bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you navigate the tricky waters of understanding biblical interpretations around staying in abusive relationships “in sickness and in health.” This episode is a lifeline for women seeking clarity and peace while healing and growing within difficult circumstances. What You’...

Jan 14, 202535 minEp. 310

This Moment is Your Gift—Unwrap It! A Flying Higher Moment 008

I'm watching my babies go from being children to being young men, and I gotta be honest, it's making me sadder than I've been in a long time. In this Flying Higher moment I'll share a new thought I had this morning as I watched my 14-year-old in the kitchen. A thought that helped create a deeper shift within me from sadness to joy. Maybe it will help you as much as it helped me. Need a mentor this year? Go to joinflyinghigher.com to learn more!...

Jan 11, 202511 min

The Importance of Empathy for Yourself [309]

Today I visit with Diana Swillinger, a life coach and fellow advocate for personal growth and healing. Together, we explore the profound role of empathy—not just for others but for yourself—in overcoming life’s challenges and moving forward. Key Topics Covered: The role of empathy in healing Personal responsibility vs. victim-blaming The difference between needing validation and needing empowerment The importance of challenging our deeply rooted beliefs A powerful tool for growth Building a life...

Jan 07, 202554 minEp. 309

A Two-Word Exercise to Shift Your World in 2025: A Flying Higher Moment 007

This week's Flying Higher moment introduces a simple exercise that will help you discover core beliefs that are keeping you stuck. You'll also learn how to quickly create a shift in your body that will give you just enough energy to regain some power and control in your life. It's a powerful exercise to try right at the beginning of 2025! Links mentioned: Try Flying Free one week for one dollar now through January 5, 2025 - Click HERE Flying Free Flying Higher...

Jan 04, 202512 min

What One Year Can Do in the Life of a Woman [308]

In today’s episode, I reflect on the incredible transformations that can happen in just one year . (That’s not a very long time, when you think about it! I feel like every January, I blink, and it’s December!) Through powerful testimonials from Christian women, I highlight the courage, growth, and healing that come in just one year of taking intentional steps to break free from abuse, rebuild a life of freedom, and pursue self-development. Discover how these women overcame fear, anxiety, and sel...

Jan 01, 202532 minEp. 308

Faith or Fear? A Flying Higher Moment 006

Do you ever wonder if you're measuring up to God's standard? If you're good enough to win God's attention and help? If you've done enough to make your life really matter? If you're looking for a little hope, joy, and maybe even a restored connection to God’s original design for humanity, I invite you to listen in to today's Flying Higher moment and embrace the possibility of a deeper faith journey rooted in love instead of manipulation and shame. Resources mentioned: Flying Higher The Mirror Bib...

Dec 28, 202413 minEp. 1

When Christmas Doesn't Smell Like You Expected [307]

Hi friends, and Merry Christmas! I hope this special day brings moments of peace and reflection, wherever you are and whatever you’re doing. In this solo episode, I reflect on the powerful connection between scent, memory, and emotion—especially during the holiday season. I’ll share personal stories, including my years as a soap maker, and how the fragrances of Christmas invite us to reflect on our own environments and experiences. We’ll explore what it means to find hope and healing in unexpect...

Dec 24, 202415 minEp. 307

Letting Go: A Flying Higher Moment 005

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to "fly higher" in life, even when weighed down by challenges and pain. Through a story and metaphor, you'll learn how letting go of control and embracing internal freedom can transform your darkest moments. Resource mentioned: Flying Higher

Dec 21, 20249 min

Lessons I’m Learning in Physical Therapy About How We Heal [306]

In today’s reflective episode, I share insights from my ongoing recovery following a recent car accident that left me with a broken wrist. I want to draw some powerful parallels for you between my physical therapy journey and the emotional and spiritual healing journeys faced by survivors of abuse. Key Topics Covered: The reality of physical therapy (hint - it’s not a walk in the park) The role of support systems Embracing pain for growth Healing through alignment with your programming The power...

Dec 17, 202428 minEp. 306

From Dreams to Reality: A Flying Higher Moment 004

"If I could give you 10x what I paid to join Flying Higher it wouldn't even scrape the true value of the deep level of understanding you have for being exactly where I am right now and how grateful I am that you teach us without holding back." Flying Higher Butterfly Resources mentioned: The Butterfly Planner The Flying Free Website (to hop on my mailing list!) Flying Free Flying Higher...

Dec 14, 20248 min
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