Episode 30 - Healing From Spiritual Abuse: Divorce, Faith Deconstruction, and Choosing Self-Care with Daphne McGee

By Jessica Garrison

Episode trigger warning: abuse

Our next guest comes recommended to us from Neva Talladen, the editor of our book Embracing Layers Unapologetically. Daphne McGee has also been on our panel shows including, “Honest Conversation Around “Child-Free” and “Child-Less.” She describes herself as caring, warm, hospitable, and brave. 

Daphne grew up in a Baptist Church in Texas, raised to sacrifice to God and allow Him to take care of you. Although a rule follower, Daphne was also very curious, which wasn’t always accepted in the church setting. This trait opened up a new world to her whenever she was, questioning if there was something more. She says her biggest act of self care was getting divorced from her husband when she was being emotionally and spiritually abused. This gave her body a release, physically showcasing that she was doing the best thing for herself. 

She’s since shared her story online, allowing her to connect with people on a greater scale. This morphed into a new book she has coming out called God Loves Divorce. It is the ultimate act to live out of your own expectations by doing something people may not approve of, and divorce isn’t always understood in the church. Just like with her curious side, Daphne had to stay true to herself and make the right decisions. Her divorce was the ultimate act of honoring herself, leaving the church in pursuit of a community that would support her in the ways that she needed. Even though self care is a new concept for Daphne, she’s been practicing it without even knowing what words to put to it. 

This work has allowed her to help other women just by sharing her story. She’s always been vocal online about her faith, so it was natural for her to tell it through this lens. Once she took that step forward to do something for herself, it resonated with so many other people. It’s a shame to hear that so many women have a similar experience, but it also means that we can help these women start living out of their expectations and find that authenticity in their own lives. Daphne says that self care is community care, and I couldn’t agree more. 

Daphne has her own podcast with a friend, Love Is A Trip, filled with even more fun stories and heartfelt content. I’m thankful to Neva, not only for everything she has done for us, but for thinking of us when she encounters these incredible women. We love to share their stories of healing and triumph, proving that every woman deserves and is capable of creating the life they want.

Ways to Engage: Is there a trait you had when you were younger that you “grew out of.” Think of why this happened. Were people dismissive? Were you told not to act or think a certain way? Explore your childhood interests or personality and think about why you’ve changed. Live your own truth and out of your own expectations. 

Resources: 

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