Shield The Vulnerable: Untold Stories From Victim to Thriver
We are all only one degree removed from someone impacted by trauma—whether through workplace violence, childhood abuse, or unspoken experiences that haunt people for decades. In a recent episode of Shield The Vulnerable: Untold Stories, Cheryl Greenfield—a former sexual trauma nurse turned empowerment mindset coach—opened up about her own story of abuse, silence, and transformation. Her powerful message? You are not alone, and healing is possible.
The Courage to Speak Up
Cheryl’s journey began with a deep, painful secret. Abused by a trusted family member as a child, she remained silent for over four decades. When she finally spoke up, she wasn’t met with the support she expected. Instead, she was re-victimized—blamed, dismissed, and accused of lying. Some said, “You must have liked it.” Others suggested she was responsible for not speaking sooner.
What Cheryl didn’t expect, however, was the ripple effect her bravery would create. One by one, other survivors stepped forward. Eventually, 22 women came forward to file police reports. Her story sparked a movement of truth and healing.
Trauma in the Workplace
Though the abuse stopped in her late teens, Cheryl carried the emotional weight with her. As a trauma nurse, she was drawn to a high-stress, fast-paced environment—one that kept her too busy to face her own pain. But trauma doesn’t disappear. It shows up in silence, in stress responses, in substance abuse, and in emotional isolation.
For leaders and employers, Cheryl’s experience is a reminder that trauma is often invisible. Employees who seem disengaged, avoid social situations, or are easily triggered may be carrying hidden pain. Building a trauma-informed workplace is not about having all the answers—it’s about listening, observing, and caring enough to ask the right questions.
Coaching: The Path to Thriving
Traditional therapy didn’t work for Cheryl. After trying several counselors, she felt stuck—repeating her story without receiving the tools to change her mindset. Everything shifted when she discovered coaching through the Pursuit Institute. The approach was simple yet profound: awareness, daily affirmations, and mindset shifts.
This path led Cheryl to reframe her identity. She no longer saw herself as a victim. She didn’t even settle for being a survivor. She became a thriver.
Through her Empowered by Trauma show, Cheryl now helps others do the same—guiding clients through mindset reprogramming, emotional release, and belief-building practices that create lasting transformation.
Spotting the Signs, Asking the Right Questions
Cheryl encourages leaders to recognize the subtle signs of trauma in the workplace:
Employees withdrawing from team activities
Avoidance of conversations or eye contact
Visible anxiety during meetings or in response to authority figures
Instead of asking the generic, “How are you?” try:
“You look like you have something on your mind—do you want to talk?”
“You seem a bit off today—everything okay?”
This level of observation and care can open the door to meaningful conversations—and potentially, someone’s healing journey.
Final Thoughts
Cheryl Greenfield’s story is more than a personal account—it’s a call to action. Whether you are a survivor yourself, a friend of one, or a leader who cares about the emotional wellness of your team, you have a role to play in creating safe, supportive spaces.
Healing is possible. Empowerment is within reach. And sometimes, the first step begins with someone brave enough to say, “Me too.”
Resources & Support
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S. & Canada) – Call or text 988 anytime.
Empowered by Trauma Show – Visit winwinwomen.tv/show/empowered-by-trauma
Book a call – calendly.com/cherylgreenfield1961
Pursuit Institute – pursuitinstitutecc.com
If Cheryl’s story resonates with you, don’t keep it to yourself. Share this message. Start the conversation. And most importantly—believe that you, too, can thrive.
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About Cheryl Greenfield
About Cheryl Greenfield
Cheryl Greenfield is a dedicated professional with a passion for excellence in her field. With a strong background in her industry, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to delivering high-quality results and fostering positive relationships.
Throughout her career, Cheryl has held various roles that have allowed her to develop a diverse skill set. Her ability to adapt to new challenges and continuously seek growth opportunities has been a hallmark of her professional journey.
Cheryl is known for her strong leadership and collaborative approach, which have contributed to her success in various projects and initiatives. She is passionate about making a meaningful impact and is always eager to take on new challenges that align with her values and goals.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Cheryl enjoys activities that reflect her well-rounded personality and commitment to personal growth.
