Nikki DeLoach Reveals Childhood Abuse, Credits Glennon Doyle’s “Untamed” for Healing Journey

Hallmark Channel star Nikki DeLoach has opened up about surviving childhood abuse. The actress shared her story on the “Books That Changed My Life” podcast in December 2025. She described a long journey toward healing.

DeLoach credited author Glennon Doyle’s memoir “Untamed” as a pivotal tool. Her revelation adds to her history of public advocacy. She has previously spoken about her family’s health challenges and grief.

Books Provided an Escape During a Painful Childhood

DeLoach told host Chris Collins that reading was her childhood escape. She immersed herself in books to cope with her reality. She reportedly read 300 books in a single year when she was 11.

“I would lay on my trampoline and I would read,” DeLoach recalled. She said books allowed her to imagine a world outside her own. They offered a mental sanctuary from her pain.

The actress directly addressed the nature of the abuse. “There was physical abuse in my childhood,” she stated. She noted that the sexual abuse was particularly traumatic.

“Untamed” Helped Unravel Decades of Psychological Damage

DeLoach found a powerful mirror in Glennon Doyle’s “Untamed.” She connected deeply with Doyle’s writing about societal pressures on young girls. The book discusses the author’s own struggles beginning at age ten.

DeLoach explained that her own harmful conditioning started at the same age. She was taught that being a “good girl” meant silence and compliance. This led to a devastating loss of self-worth.

“I felt that my life was not worthy of protection,” DeLoach shared. This belief triggered a battle with anorexia. She aimed to become small and invisible.

Unraveling this psychological damage took decades. DeLoach emphasized that Doyle’s book was crucial to her recovery. It helped her learn to love herself again.

A Pledge to Advocate for the Vulnerable

This disclosure follows DeLoach’s recent comments to EntertainmentNow. She vowed to use her voice more forcefully for advocacy. She is prioritizing truth over popularity.

“I don’t care if you unfollow me; I have got to speak up because it’s the right thing to do,” DeLoach stated. She argues that public figures must defend humanity. Protecting society’s most vulnerable is a key measure of a nation’s character, she believes.

DeLoach is concerned that online divisiveness distracts from real issues. She urges people to focus on tangible problems and collective action. Her personal healing is now driving her public mission.

Nikki DeLoach’s story underscores the long shadow of childhood abuse and the power of finding one’s voice. Her journey from trauma to advocacy highlights a path of resilient healing.

Thought you’d like to know

What did Nikki DeLoach reveal on the podcast?

Nikki DeLoach revealed she survived both physical and sexual abuse as a child. She shared this on the “Books That Changed My Life” podcast. The discussion focused on her healing process.

Which book helped Nikki DeLoach heal?

She credits Glennon Doyle’s 2020 memoir “Untamed” as instrumental in her healing. DeLoach related strongly to Doyle’s experiences about girlhood and silencing. The book helped her untangle decades of psychological damage.

How did the abuse affect DeLoach’s health?

The trauma led to the development of anorexia during her childhood. She linked her eating disorder directly to being told to “be small” and silent. Healing from these conditions took many years.

What is DeLoach’s stance on using her platform now?

She has committed to speaking out more on social issues, regardless of backlash. DeLoach believes in fighting for society’s most vulnerable people. She stated that losing followers is less important than advocating for truth.

Is Nikki DeLoach still acting for Hallmark?

Yes, she remains a active star in Hallmark Channel movies and series. Her recent work includes “A Grand Ole Opry Christmas” and the “Curious Caterer” series. She balances her career with her advocacy work.