THE ESCAPE: Leaving Abuse and Rebuilding Life

What would you do if the person you loved became the person you feared most? Imagine knowing you need to leave, but the risk of walking away could cost you everything. Survivors of intimate partner violence face impossible choices, navigating a system that often fails to protect them. Leaving an abusive relationship isn’t just about walking away—it’s about reclaiming your power, your voice, and your future. Lisa welcomes Va’rai Unique, a serial entrepreneur, award-winning consultant, and author of Unlocking Your Renaissance. She is also a survivor. From enduring years of psychological and physical abuse to escaping and rebuilding her life (twice), Va’rai walks us through the harsh realities survivors face. Lisa and Va’rai discuss how abusers manipulate and how the legal system often works against victims. Today Va’rai is free and rebuilt a life on her own terms. Va’rai proves that survival is just the beginning—thriving is the next step. This episode is about resilience, hope, and the unshakable courage to start over. From now on…we’re going to love ourselves unapologetically. Just a heads up: This episode contains discussions of intimate partner violence and emotional, financial, and psychological abuse. Some may find it upsetting. We encourage you to take care of yourself. Va’rai is a dynamic force in the world of business strategy and personal branding, known for her innovative approach to transforming individuals and organizations alike. A serial entrepreneur with a knack for unlocking potential, she has built a reputation as one of the most sought-after consultants in her field. Her career is adorned with prestigious accolades, including the Achievement of the Year Award presented at the House of Lords in London, a testament to her trailblazing contributions. In 2023, Va’rai was celebrated as The Most Innovative Consultant at the Influential Business Women Awards and earned the title of Business Strategy Consultancy of the Year at the Global Awards 2023/24. Va’rai’s expertise extends beyond consulting into motivational speaking, where she has graced stages in the United Kingdom, inspiring audiences with her transformative insights. She is also the celebrated author of Unlocking Your Renaissance, a powerful guide for those seeking to redefine themselves and embrace their authentic identity through creative rebranding. Follow Va’rai Unique on Instagram @varaiunique and @entirelyunique. To learn more about Va’rai’s work, check out varaiunique.com. Buy her book Unlocking Your Renaissance here. Follow Lisa Phillips @iamlisaphillips on Instagram. From Now On is produced by LA PHILLIPS MEDIA. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Have a story to share with us? Email us at fromnowonpod@gmail.com. Join our movement and keep up to date on all things From Now On by following us @fromnowonpod on all socials. If today’s conversation resonated with you and you are seeking more support in your own healing journey, here are some resources below: If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) If you or someone you know is being trafficked, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Text 233733 (befree). PAVE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating a world free from sexual violence and building communities to support survivors. Speak Out, Act, Reclaim (SOAR) is dedicated to providing a safe and empowering space for survivors of sex trafficking to reclaim their stories and stand up for themselves and each other.