{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Cherryann Joseph: From Trauma to Transformation","description":"What do you do when the pain you\u2019ve lived through makes it hard to believe in God at all? In this episode of Why I Believe, I sit down with Cherryann Joseph, educator, Maxwell Leadership coach, and retired military officer, to share a story of trauma, anger, and ultimately, transformation through faith. Cherryann\u2019s childhood was marked by abuse, instability, and unanswered prayers. Despite growing up around church, she struggled to understand how a loving God could allow such pain, eventually turning away and identifying as an atheist. But her story didn\u2019t end there. Through persistent friendships, unexpected moments, and one pivotal encounter in a high school hallway, everything began to shift. In a moment of surrender, Cherryann prayed, and what followed changed her life in ways she never expected. The nightmares she carried for years\u2026 stopped. The anger and desire for revenge\u2026 began to loosen its grip. We talk about: Growing up in trauma and how it shaped her view of God Wrestling with anger, injustice, and unanswered prayers Walking away from faith, and what brought her back The moment she experienced freedom and healing What it looks like to choose forgiveness daily How prayer, scripture, and community sustain her faith Cherryann\u2019s story is raw, honest, and deeply powerful. It\u2019s a reminder that even when life doesn\u2019t make sense\u2026 even when healing feels out of reach\u2026 God can meet you right where you are, and begin a work you didn\u2019t even know to ask for. If you\u2019ve ever questioned your faith, felt angry at God, or struggled to understand your story, this episode will meet you there. You can reach Cherryann at Cherryann Joseph - PhD Joseph | LinkedIn Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. \ud83d\udc49 Apply here: https:\/\/www.michellevonruden.com\/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you\u2019re feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. \ud83d\udc49 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden \ud83d\udc49 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don\u2019t have to be perfect to be called. You don\u2019t have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are. ","author_name":"Why I Believe","author_url":"https:\/\/sites.libsyn.com\/WhyIBelieve","html":"