What happens when silence becomes a survival strategy – and healing means finding your voice again?

This week on Mastering Change, we speak with therapist, author and founder of the Washington Therapy Fund Foundation Ashley McGirt about the impact of racial and intergenerational trauma.

Ashley shares how trauma rooted in racism and injustice can echo through generations, shaping families, relationships and self-worth – and how healing begins when we start to name what was once unspeakable.

“Just saying it out loud is healing. Naming it takes away some of its power.”

We explore

• How racial trauma lives in the body and is passed through generations
• The role of silence and survival in Black families and communities
• Why healing requires being witnessed in our pain
• How storytelling and community care can transform collective wounds

This conversation is both grounding and liberating – a reminder that breaking silence isn’t just about telling your story, but reclaiming your power.

Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive episodes related to trauma, mental health and potential distressing experiences. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support.

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