“Your past does not define you—what you do next does. No matter how broken you feel right now, you are capable of rebuilding, of creating a life filled with purpose, strength, and joy. Healing takes time, but every step forward is proof that you are stronger than what tried to break you.”
— Janice Becker
Surviving trauma is one thing—rising from it and rebuilding a life of success and purpose is another. Janice Becker is the embodiment of resilience, having endured and overcome the devastating effects of domestic violence. Now the founder and CEO of Media Rebel, a thriving digital marketing agency, she has turned her pain into power, using her experiences to uplift and inspire others. As a single mother and a survivor, she understands the struggles of starting over, but she also knows the strength it takes to do so. In this interview, Janice shares her harrowing journey, from recognizing red flags to making the courageous decision to leave, and ultimately reclaiming her life by building a business rooted in empowerment and growth.
Through her candid and heartfelt conversation, Janice sheds light on the silent battles many women face in abusive relationships and the long road to emotional and psychological healing. She discusses the impact of PTSD, the challenges of trusting again, and the importance of therapy in her recovery. But more than that, she offers hope—proof that even in the darkest moments, there is a way forward. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that we are not defined by our past but by the choices we make to shape our future. Whether you are someone seeking strength to leave an unhealthy situation or simply looking for inspiration on how to turn hardship into opportunity, Janice’s story will leave you motivated to rise, rebuild, and thrive.
Thank you so much for joining us, Janice! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?
Absolutely! I am the founder and CEO of Media Rebel, a digital marketing agency based in Northeast Ohio. We launched last year, and it has been an incredible journey. I am also a single mother and a survivor of domestic violence, and my experiences have shaped who I am today. I’ve always been a fighter, and even through my toughest moments, I have found ways to push forward. From becoming a teenage mom and raising a child with disabilities to surviving an abusive relationship, I’ve had my fair share of challenges. But instead of letting those experiences define me, I used them as motivation to build a better future for myself and my children.
Can you share a little about your personal experience with domestic violence?
I was in a relationship with someone I had known since high school, and while things started off well, there were early warning signs I didn’t fully recognize at the time. It started with emotional abuse—controlling behavior, manipulation, and demeaning comments—but escalated to physical violence. The turning point came on Father’s Day of 2020 when I was asleep, and he came home from the bar intoxicated and enraged. He attacked me so brutally that he broke my eye socket in two places, dislocated my jaw, and caused permanent damage to my cervical spine. That night nearly ended my life, and I knew I could never go back.
Did you notice any red flags before the abuse escalated?
Looking back, I can now see that there were warning signs from the beginning. He was very controlling, would get irrationally angry over minor things, and made me feel guilty about simple actions, like wearing his hoodie without asking. At the time, I brushed these things off, thinking they were just personality quirks, but after moving in together, everything escalated quickly. His temper became unpredictable, and I found myself constantly walking on eggshells. The abuse became more frequent and severe, making it harder for me to leave, as I felt trapped in the cycle of manipulation and fear.
How did you find the strength to leave?
For me, leaving was a matter of survival. After the brutal attack, I physically couldn’t stay any longer. I had no choice but to go. I was fortunate to have my parents, who took me in after the assault, but I know that not everyone has that kind of support system. Many women feel stuck because they don’t have anywhere to go, or they fear retaliation. My advice to anyone in a similar situation is to start planning an escape as soon as you recognize that you are in danger. Whether it’s saving money, confiding in a trusted friend, or reaching out to a domestic violence organization, the most important thing is to know that there is a way out.
How did this experience affect your emotional and mental health?
The trauma had a deep impact on me. I struggled with PTSD, anxiety, and trust issues long after I physically left the relationship. I remember watching a boxing match on TV, and the sound of a punch sent me into a full-blown panic attack. That was when my mother pointed out that I might have PTSD, and I decided to seek therapy. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. Therapy helped me understand my trauma and gave me the tools to navigate triggers and heal from my past. Even now, certain sounds and situations can bring back memories, but I’ve learned to cope in ways that allow me to keep moving forward.
What role did therapy play in your healing process?
Therapy was a game-changer for me. It provided a safe space where I could unpack the emotions and fears I had been suppressing. I tried different methods, including EMDR therapy, but that particular approach triggered more flashbacks than relief. Instead, I found success in other techniques that helped me regain control of my thoughts and emotions. Healing isn’t linear—there were setbacks along the way—but having a professional guide me through it made all the difference. Therapy taught me that I am not defined by my past, and that realization was incredibly empowering.
How has your experience shaped your relationships moving forward?
It completely changed how I view relationships. I am much more aware of red flags now and have zero tolerance for controlling or toxic behavior. In the past, I might have dismissed minor concerns, but now I trust my instincts. I also prioritize my own well-being in relationships. I don’t chase people, and I no longer accept less than what I deserve. It has made dating more challenging because I have a strong sense of self-worth, but I’d rather be alone than be with someone who doesn’t treat me with respect and kindness.
How did you transition from surviving to thriving?
The biggest factor was reclaiming control over my life. I refused to let what happened to me define my future. Instead of dwelling on the past, I focused on what I could build for myself and my children. I knew I wanted to create something meaningful, and that’s how Media Rebel was born. It wasn’t just about starting a business—it was about creating a new life, one where I had control, independence, and the ability to help others. Every step I took toward my goals was a step away from the trauma.
What inspired you to start Media Rebel?
I was working as a director of media at another agency, but I found myself in yet another toxic environment. My employers knew about my PTSD and what I had gone through, yet they still put me in situations that triggered me. That was my breaking point. I decided I was done working for people who didn’t value me, and I was going to build something where I could create a safe and supportive environment, both for myself and others. In less than a year, I launched Media Rebel, opened an office, and started a podcast. Taking that leap was terrifying, but it was the best decision I ever made.
What services does Media Rebel offer?
Media Rebel is a full-service digital marketing agency. We specialize in web development, app development, SEO, paid advertising, and programmatic marketing. We also work in media production, helping individuals and businesses get featured on podcasts or launch their own. My goal is to always be at the forefront of digital innovation while providing a space where clients feel valued and supported. I want to help businesses grow while making a positive impact through storytelling and digital outreach.
What advice do you have for other women who are struggling to rebuild their lives after trauma?
The first thing I would say is to be patient with yourself. Healing doesn’t happen overnight. Take small steps, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and most importantly, don’t let your past define your future. You are capable of building a new life, no matter how broken you feel right now. Find something that excites you, whether it’s a career, a passion project, or personal growth, and use it as motivation to move forward. Your trauma does not define you—what you do next does.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
You can check out media-rebel.net to learn more about Media Rebel and the work we do in digital marketing, branding, and media strategy. I also host Media Rebel Unplugged on YouTube, where we talk about business growth, overcoming challenges, and building a life and career on your own terms. We share real stories, insights, and tips to help people take control of their future, whether it’s in business or personal growth. You can also connect with us on social media, where we post updates, success stories, and inspiration for anyone looking to rebuild and thrive.
Janice, your story is beyond inspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey, your strength, and your resilience with us.
Thank you, Stacey. I truly appreciate the opportunity to share my story, and I hope it helps others realize that they are not alone, and they CAN rebuild.
