My name is Janna.

I’m an introverted but outspoken forty-something survivor of domestic abuse and generational trauma.

I’m a recovering people-pleaser who finds grounding in simple joys, self-empowerment, and feminism.

I have two kids in their early twenties and two rescue dogs, Rooney Reid and Sunny Sue, which means I’m always outnumbered.

In the summer of 2023 I bought a house built in 1923, named her Alice, and moved home to Kansas City, where I fill my cup by spending time with my loved ones, writing, thrifting (expert level!), chasing creativity through various DIY ventures, and minding all the ways I can create peace and happiness.

Almost a decade ago I founded Breaking the Silence for Women (now Woman, Determined), a platform of education and empowerment for survivors of domestic abuse, while still in the throes of post-separation abuse with my ex-husband. The coparenting arrangement, which spanned twelve years, legally expired the same summer I bought my house.

For years, alongside my healing of self and advocacy for women, I wrote only nonfiction. In 2024 I returned to fiction after a long hiatus. I’m a different me and a better writer, which I believe can only mean good things are ahead.

In that vein, I’ve also soft launched a new channel, Home Happymaker, where I share one story, one project, one joy at a time, as I lean into what comes next for this stage of my life.

Yours in joy and determination,

Janna

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Woman, Determined is a sole proprietorship registered in Missouri. This website, all its content, and images are owned by Janna Leadbetter unless otherwise noted.