Episode
E 345: From Teenage Homelessness to Healing: The Story Behind Girlbomb: Guest Janice Erlbaum
- Podcast
- Adult Child of Dysfunction
- Published
- Jul 15, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2623
- Processing state
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Summary
What does it take to survive an abusive childhood—and what does it really take to heal? In this deeply moving episode of Adult Child of Dysfunction , Tammy Vincent sits down with bestselling memoirist Janice Erlbaum , author of Girlbomb: A Halfway Homeless Memoir , to explore the lasting impact of childhood trauma, domestic violence, homelessness, and the remarkable resilience of the human spirit. At just fifteen years old, Janice made the heartbreaking decision to leave home to escape an abusive environment. What followed were years spent moving between shelters, group homes, addiction, unhealthy relationships, and the constant struggle to survive. Yet through therapy, writing, and an unwavering commitment to healing, she transformed her life and eventually returned to the very shelter where she'd once sought refuge—this time as a volunteer helping other young people. Together, Tammy and Janice explore what healing really looks like after growing up in dysfunction and why telling your story can become one of the most powerful steps toward reclaiming your life. In this episode you'll discover: Why Janice chose to leave home at just fifteen years old What "halfway homeless" really means The long-term effects of childhood trauma and domestic violence How therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and other healing modalities supported her recovery Why writing your story can be both painful and profoundly healing What happened when she returned to volunteer at the shelter where she once lived How her parents responded after reading Girlbomb Advice for adult children of dysfunctional families who want to tell their own stories If you've ever questioned your past, wondered whether healing is possible, or dreamed of sharing your own story, this conversation offers hope, honesty, and pract…