Testimonials | Joileen Mischel

Dr. Carla S., Psychologist

‘With candid honesty, Joileen, processes her life in this inspirational autobiography. In her gritty and candid account, Joileen describes her journey and ultimately challenges the notion that we are defined by our past.

Although much of her life was marked by destabilisation, abuse, and isolation; Joileen engages in honest self-exploration and details how she overcame self-beliefs that had held her back. Her journey illustrates and gives encouragement that we are not our past; that we can create our own path and even reach places of gratitude and forgiveness.

Joileen's story is gritty, real and empowering. A must-read.’

Jenny C, Counsellor & Trauma Therapist

'Wow - after reading this book I just wanted to give Joileen a big hug for being such a brave, wise woman. So many tribulations and such an awesome ability to stay focused on the present moment and have faith in a better future.

No victim here - a ‘must read’ book - an honest, open account of Joileen’s incredible life. There is a very important message in this book too - we do have choices about our responses to life’s challenges. Thanks too Joileen, for reminding me and sharing how much our work, values and lifestyles have changed in just a few generations.'

Penelope N., Naturopath

Thank-you Joileen for YOUR story told with Eloquent Honesty and Grace with a powerful message in your words. The reader will know that even though Bad things happen to Good People when you don't use your experiences as an excuse and let the resentment and Hate own you, the bad does not consume your personality and life.

You have shown that with taking charge of Oneself and owning Only your Reactions and Actions, it will inspire others to find Their Joy, Their People, Their Dreams and by walking to their own drum, still be at peace with themselves and in Rhythm with Those and the Path they choose for themselves.

Fiona Dardenne

‘I read Joileen’s book and was transported back in time. To early Australian fruit picker days, to balls and outback Aussie.

But most of all I learned that even with the harshest of childhood experiences you can still become and fulfil your dreams. You can be a person to be proud of and show that strength can come from pain and suffering.

I feel inspired and transformed by this book and I know many others will also. Written expertly and with a flow that mesmerises the reader.

Highly recommended

Pixie Bayley

'Joileen Mischel’s book ‘Broken Past Heals Dreams’ had me captured from the first page. I felt her pain during the many years of hideous sexual abuse by her ‘father. Later in the book, I rejoiced for her about her achievements and the personal work she undertook to overcome her childhood trauma. This is truly an inspirational story and a must-read.

Rosalinde Reichle, Dip of Teaching and Grad Dip of Library Studies.

I admire your courage and how you have used these misfortunes – not only to strengthen your character but, also to let go of the past, to move forward and enjoy all that is good in your life. As hard as it was to relive these events- in sharing your pain you have shown that by forgiving and letting go of all the resentment and bitterness that we can get better. In John Shipp’s words

“ Let your past make you BETTER, not bitter”.

Jolieen, your actions have put power into these words and you can now take control of your life. Thank you – you have already made a change in my life.

Pippa Kay, Author

‘Joileen has had a very full and challenging life. Despite years of sexual abuse as a child, she does not consider herself a victim. She has met life’s challenges head-on and demonstrates remarkable insight into her own strengths and weaknesses.

It’s often distressing to read this book and I found her descriptions of the childhood abuse particularly upsetting. I may not agree with every decision Joileen has made in her life, but I admire her honesty and courage to write this autobiography. As she says, she put her head into neutral and got on with it.'

Dr. Rosie Howard, GP

‘I finally completed Joileen’s autobiography! In fact, after a false start I started again - and I'm glad I did. I had no idea of Joileen’s " real story" and the extraordinary challenges she had to face.

She really is a testament to living your dreams and rising above adversity. Joileen writes with an easy style and great poignancy and yet without vindictiveness. I found myself experiencing a mix of emotions, including frustration, bewilderment and outright anger but in the end, it is the triumph of Joileen’s spirit that shines through and she should be gloriously commended for that.

God bless you, Joileen and may your future be one of ongoing joy and abundance.’

Mick Lawson

‘I have just finished reading an autobiography by Joileen Mischel. What a story. How brave of you Joileen. It just proves how strong some of us is to overcome years of childhood mental and sexual abuse. You are a wonderful human being.'

Cathy F.

‘What an amazing book you have written. I finished it a while ago and have been thinking about it since. You are an incredible woman. Thank you for sharing your story.'

Viv Capes

‘Life is about stories. Some stories need to be told – and
Joileen’s story is one of those. Broken Past Heals Dreams, is Joileen’s life story about her challenges and triumphs, told with an admirable openness, honesty and wisdom. I read Broken Past
Heals Dreams, in a day - I could not put it down. I highly recommend reading this masterfully written story.'

Romy Romana Kitak

‘Joileen, I read your powerful inspirational book. Congratulations! As the sayings goes; "To understand one, one must walk in their shoes" Great read!'