MJ's Story

The LOVE>hate Podcast · Feb 3, 2026 · 23m

In this deeply moving episode, Melissa Etzler sits down with MJ, a survivor who has spent the last decade navigating the complexities of trauma and recovery. MJ opens up about her journey from childhood abuse and toxic relationships to finding her voice through the transformative power of art therapy.

MJ shares how a chance encounter with the "Love is Greater Than Hate" organization in college sparked her realization that she could take her power back. However, it was during a mental health hospitalization in 2020 that she discovered her most potent healing tools: watercolor, alcohol…