HopeMakers: Disrupting the legacy of trauma.
Trauma doesn't just harm those who experience it directly—it ripples outward, shaping behaviours, fuelling violence, and creating new victims. But what if we could interrupt that cycle?
In season one of Hopemakers, we celebrated the extraordinary resilience of individuals who transformed their trauma and adversity into purpose—powerful stories of survival, healing, and hope that proved change is possible.
Now, in season two (coming in 2026) we're expanding our mission. Hosted by Dr Erica Bowen, a registered practitioner forensic psychologist, chartered coaching psychologist, somatic trauma-informed coach and trauma-informed practice consultant, Hopemakers now bridges the personal with the systemic, bringing together three vital perspectives: the lived experiences of survivors who've broken cycles of harm, the cutting-edge research of academics working to reduce violent crime perpetration, and the practical insights of those pioneering trauma-informed approaches in communities and organisations.
Through a somatic lens—understanding how trauma lives in our bodies and shapes our actions—we examine both sides of trauma's devastating cycle: how it wounds us, and how unhealed trauma can lead to harm. Each conversation explores the profound connections between individual healing and violence prevention, offering evidence-based insights alongside deeply human stories.
This isn't just another podcast about trauma recovery. It's about understanding that healing personal wounds and preventing collective harm are two sides of the same coin. By disrupting trauma's legacy at every level—individual, systemic, and intergenerational—we create safer, more compassionate communities for everyone.
Whether you're here for the transformative survivor stories that launched season one, or you're ready to explore the research and practice that can prevent violence before it happens, Hopemakers offers thought leadership, evidence, and above all, hope that change is possible.
Because when we stop trauma in its tracks, we don't just heal individuals—we transform entire legacies.
Subscribe to HopeMakers wherever you listen to podcasts, and discover your own path to hope.
HopeMakers: Disrupting the legacy of trauma.
Episode 2: Breaking the Sabotage Cycle - From Workaholic to Balanced Entrepreneur
After 17 years of building a successful hospitality business, Michelle Delport realized she had achieved everything she thought she wanted – except happiness. In this revealing episode, Michelle shares her journey from burned-out perfectionist to balanced women's empowerment coach, helping female entrepreneurs overcome the same self-sabotage patterns that nearly destroyed her.
Working 80+ hours a week, struggling with unhealthy relationships, and finding solace at the bottom of a bottle, Michelle had to confront a hard truth: success in one area of life means nothing if everything else is falling apart. Her wake-up call came when she questioned why she became an entrepreneur in the first place – was it to work herself into an early grave, or to actually enjoy the journey?
Through candid self-reflection and the development of practical tools, Michelle transformed her approach to success, finally achieving the work-life balance that had eluded her for decades. Now she helps other strong female entrepreneurs recognize their worth beyond their business achievements.
Key takeaways from this episode:
- Why traditional definitions of success can lead to self-destructive behaviors
- The importance of nurturing self-concept and accepting compliments without deflection
- How keeping a daily "success journal" can rewire negative thought patterns
- Why meditation and mindfulness are essential tools for sustainable entrepreneurship
- The power of measuring where you are versus where you want to be
Michelle's transformation from feeling unworthy of self-care to practicing it guilt-free offers hope to any entrepreneur who's lost themselves in their business. Her message is clear: true success comes when you're empowered in all aspects of life, not just your career.
Essential listening for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone caught in the cycle of perfectionism and overwork.