In Not That Sweet, Stephanie Thoma candidly shares her story of growing up in a chaotic home. Her father, a police sergeant, sought to “fix” her defiance and anger by sending her away. As she navigates this unconventional childhood, readers are invited to explore a pressing question: is she a “troubled teen” reacting to an unhealthy environment, or is it both?
Thoma’s narrative explores the intricate nature of her family and social dynamics. She delves into her strained relationships with her parents and siblings, her feeling of invisibility at school, the labels she’s been given and the various places she’s lived. Each chapter offers insights into her journey of resilience and personal growth. This thoughtful exploration of self-discovery and identity resonates throughout the book.
Not That Sweet chronicles Thoma’s evolution from an uncertain childhood to an empowered adulthood. It emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and reclaiming one’s sense of self. Her story provides a relatable and encouraging perspective for anyone ready to take radical self‑responsibility and find their place in the world.
The book covers the following topics:
1. intergenerational trauma
2. childhood development
3. family systems
4. feminism
5. institutionalization
6. power imbalance
7. overmedication
8. reclaiming one’s identity
9. intentional family estrangement
Who is the book for?
Mental illness and challenging family dynamics are 50 percent more common in entrepreneurs vs. the general population (NIMH). Not That Sweet is essential for individuals keen on understanding the intersection of childhood development and institutionalization, particularly its tendency to address behavioral symptoms rather than their underlying domestic causes. The book is for anyone who didn’t fit in with their family, was true to themselves and may have paid the price for it growing up. It’s for the entrepreneur who dares to pave a path for themselves, shed labels and shame, break intergenerational trauma cycles and set healthy boundaries, even if they’re unpopular. Alternatively, if you were the golden child instead of the black sheep growing up, this can offer insight into a different response to similar parenting.
Single most important takeaway:
“Can I love the parts of myself that people once outcasted?”
Meet the author
Stephanie Thoma is the founder of Connect With Confidence, known for her empowering approach to teaching public speaking, relationship and community building. Her debut book, Confident Introvert, helps introverts leverage their strengths in social and professional settings. Her latest release, Not That Sweet, explores modern relationships and self-discovery, focusing on authenticity, healthy boundaries and personal standards.
Featured in Forbes, Business Insider and Entrepreneur, she has spoken at Harvard and Boston Universities. Stephanie Thoma has helped thousands embrace their authentic confidence and build meaningful connections.
To learn more about how trauma affects the workplace, read here.
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