Why I Dared to Write About the Men I’ve Loved—And What Happened Next E15
- Lisa Schoenthal
- Apr 23
- 3 min read
💌 Why I Dared to Write About the Men I’ve Loved—And What Happened Next
When I first wrote The Men We Meet: 15 Key Lessons Learned in Love, I had no idea how much it would crack me open—or how many people it would trigger.
I didn’t write it to get revenge. I didn’t write it to name names or stir the pot.I wrote it to understand myself.
Each relationship left its mark—some sweet, some devastating, all transformative. And instead of burying those memories, I chose to turn them into something meaningful.I chose to write my truth.
But what I didn’t expect?Was the backlash.
🚫 What Happened After I Hit Publish
The disapproval came fast—and from people I didn’t expect.My mom. My dad. My older brother.They weren’t happy. Even though I’d changed names, softened edges, and asked for feedback before publishing. Even though the stories were mine to tell.
Some of the men reached out, too—confused, flattered, even angry. I hadn’t anticipated their reactions… because I wasn’t writing for them.
I was writing for me.
“Your truth might rattle some cages—but it will also unlock your freedom.”
For a while, I shrank.I stopped promoting the book.I put my dream of speaking, creating workshops, and helping others on pause.And I stopped writing.
But eventually… I became brave again.I stopped seeking approval.And I realized the people judging me were really judging themselves.
I would never fit into the small, tidy box they built for me.And honestly? I was never meant to.
💫 Why I’m Rewriting The Men We Meet
Ten years later, I’ve grown. I’ve healed. I’ve met a few more “teachers” along the way (looking at you, Sailor and Pilot). 😉
And now, I’m updating the book with more depth, reflection, and truth.
But I’m also creating a companion journal + workbook—because I don’t want you to just read about transformation. I want you to experience it.
This isn’t about bashing men.This is about breaking patterns.It’s about rising in your own clarity, healing, and wholeness.
💬 Questions I’m Often Asked (Listen to Epi15 for all the Tea!):
“Do you believe in past lives?” (Yes. I was a courtesan in one of them. That story’s in the podcast episode!)
“Would you change anything with hindsight?” (Not a thing.)
“How did you find the courage to write it?” (By realizing silence was costing me more than truth ever could.)
“What’s your best breakup advice?” (Grieve fully. Then rise.)
“Which relationship meant the most?” (The ones where I felt safe, seen, and free.)
“How important are the women in your life?” (Absolutely essential. My soul sisters helped me remember who I am.)
✨ Journal Prompts from Episode 15:
Which past relationship taught you the most about yourself—and what was the lesson?
What patterns or red flags have you repeatedly ignored—and why?
What does an aligned, soul-nourishing relationship feel like to you?
Who were you before the heartbreak—and who are you now?
What would your future self thank you for letting go of today?
💖 Affirmations from Episode 15:
I release what no longer serves my heart and make space for soul-aligned love.
Every relationship, past and present, is a stepping stone to my deepest self.
I trust myself to choose partners who honor, respect, and see the real me.
I am not defined by my past—I am rewritten by my wisdom.
I am worthy of the kind of love that feels like truth, not confusion.
🖋 Ready to Start Your Own Journey?
I created a beautiful free gift for you:📓 Journal Prompts for Self-Discovery and Transformation
This journal is your invitation to begin exploring your patterns, healing your past, and rewriting your story—on your terms.
✨ Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever questioned your worth after a breakup…If you’ve ever felt judged for your truth…If you’ve ever wanted to turn your pain into purpose…
This episode—and this book—are for you.
Grab your journal. Sit with your truth. And remember:
“You don’t need permission to tell your story. You just need courage to start.”
🛍️ Want to grab the book?➡️ Click here to get your copy of The Men We Meet: 15 Key Lessons Learned in Love
🎧 And if you haven’t listened yet, check out Episode 15 of Sip Tea with Me to hear the full story.
With love and truth from ,
Lis 💋
