The Rising Beyond Podcast

Back-to-school season often brings more than new teachers, new classmates, and new routines.For many protective parents, it also marks the beginning of a new round of smear campaigns.Whether it's with teachers, other parents, coaches, family members, or professionals involved in your case, someone who uses coercive control often looks for opportunities to shape the narrative before you have a chance to tell your own story.The result? Anxiety. Isolation. Self-doubt. And the overwhelming urge to defend yourself.But what if your greatest strength isn't convincing everyone you're telling the truth?What if it's learning to stay grounded in your values while allowing your consistency to speak louder than their accusations?In this episode, we explore practical mindset shifts that can help you respond differently to smear campaigns while protecting both your peace and your credibility.In this episode, we answer:How do I stop a smear campaign from taking over my thoughts and emotions?When should I respond to false accusations—and when is it better not to?How can I protect my credibility without constantly defending myself?If you've ever found yourself replaying conversations, worrying about what other people think, or wondering how to protect your reputation without losing yourself in the process, this episode is for you.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Artificial intelligence is everywhere, including family court.More and more protective parents are telling me that their ex has suddenly started sending perfectly written messages, using AI to draft legal documents, or threatening to subpoena their ChatGPT conversations.It's understandable to feel intimidated.But does AI actually give an abusive person more power?Or is it simply another tool that can be used well—or misused?In this episode, I'm joined by divorce coach and author Rina Rosewell to unpack the growing role of AI in coercive control, post-separation abuse, and family court. We discuss both the opportunities and the limitations of AI, along with practical ways survivors can use it without becoming dependent on it.In this episode, we answer:Should I be worried if my ex suddenly starts using AI to write messages or court documents?Can AI actually help me communicate, organize my case, and reduce the emotional toll of post-separation abuse?What are the limitations of AI, and why shouldn't it replace the support of safe, trusted people in your healing?Whether you're curious about AI, already using it, or feeling anxious because your ex has discovered it, this conversation will help you separate fear from facts and use this technology in ways that support—not replace—your healing.About Rina: Rina Rosewell is a CDC Certified Divorce Coach, High-Conflict Coach, and Amazon bestselling author of AI ARMOR: Your Digital Defense Solution for Coparenting with a Narcissist. She helps post-separation abuse survivors use AI strategically to communicate, document, and protect themselves when their ex weaponizes every interaction.Find Rina:https://lifeafteranabusiverelationship.com/https://rinas-newsletter-fbfe96.beehiiv.com/Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

This week's episode comes from a question I was asked by a group of family law attorneys."What behaviors can we look for in a child that tell us coercive control or domestic violence is happening?"On the surface, it seems like a simple question. But the more I sat with it, the more I realized just how complicated, and potentially harmful, that question can become.As a child therapist, I absolutely believe we need to understand children's experiences. Their voices matter.But when our legal and child protection systems rely too heavily on children to provide the evidence, we can unintentionally place them in impossible loyalty binds, increase pressure on them, and even teach them that speaking up doesn't change anything.In this episode, I process these tensions out loud and share why I believe we need to think differently about assessing coercive control.We answer:Why is it so difficult to use children's behaviors as proof of coercive control or domestic violence?What should parents actually pay attention to when trying to understand their child's experience?How can we support our children without turning them into evidence in a family court case?If you've ever wondered why your child's behaviors seem confusing—or why professionals sometimes miss what's really happening—this conversation is for you.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Leaving an abusive relationship is only the beginning.For many survivors, the legal system becomes the next obstacle, especially when financial abuse, intimidation, and limited access to legal representation leave them trying to navigate family court alone.I'm talking with Heather Bellino from the Texas Advocacy Project to discuss the often-overlooked civil legal needs of survivors and the systemic gaps that continue to put families at risk. Although Texas Advocacy Project serves survivors in Texas, the themes discussed apply to communities across the United States.We explore how coordinated community responses, trauma-informed legal advocacy, and increased collaboration between professionals can improve both safety and access to justice.We discuss:The difference between criminal and civil legal remedies for survivorsWhy protective orders, custody, and family court often determine a survivor's immediate safetyWhy abuse must be understood as a pattern of coercive control, not isolated incidentsHow stalking and coercive control are frequently minimized when viewed one event at a timeThe importance of trauma-informed judges, evaluators, and court professionalsWhy passing new legislation is only the first step—and why implementation mattersThe role of court watchers in increasing accountability and transparencyHow Texas Advocacy Project helps survivors who must represent themselves in court (pro se)Why knowing your legal rights can be empowering after coercive controlThe importance of coordinated community responses rather than organizations working in silosWhy funding survivor services is essential to long-term systemic changeSurvivors shouldn't have to navigate complex legal systems alone. When professionals collaborate, communities invest in survivor-centered services, and systems understand coercive control as a pattern rather than isolated incidents, families have a far greater chance of finding both safety and justice.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

You left the relationship. You're rebuilding your life. You're even trying to reconnect with friends.So why does every interaction leave you questioning everything?In this Friday Coaching Corner, I answer a listener question from a survivor who wants connection but finds herself constantly analyzing whether people are genuine, worrying about how she showed up, and struggling to trust her own judgment.Questions We'll ExploreHow do I know the difference between discernment and hypervigilance?Why do I replay conversations and judge myself so harshly afterward?How do I rebuild trust without becoming naive?We'll talk about the impact of coercive control and isolation on trust, why your nervous system may still be scanning for danger, and how trust is rebuilt one safe relationship at a time.Want to have your questions featured on a Friday Coaching Corner? Send me a short summary of your situation and 2–3 questions at [email protected]: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What do you do when the outcome you feared actually happens?What happens when you've lost time with your children, the professionals who were supposed to protect them didn't listen, and you're wondering how you're supposed to keep going?This is one of the heaviest episodes I've ever recorded—but it's also one of the most important.Too often, survivors are told to "stay positive" or "everything happens for a reason." But that's not what hope looks like after coercive control, systemic betrayal, or devastating family court outcomes.In this episode, I talk honestly about the hopelessness many protective parents experience, including suicidal thoughts that can arise after prolonged trauma and loss. More importantly, we explore what research tells us about hope—and why hope is not passive optimism. Hope is something we build one small step at a time.If you've ever wondered whether you'll make it through this season, I hope this conversation helps you feel a little less alone.We discuss:The difference between optimism and hope—and why the distinction matters.Why toxic positivity can feel invalidating after trauma.The grief that many protective parents carry after family court and post-separation abuse.How focusing on what is within your control can restore a sense of agency.Why breaking overwhelming goals into smaller steps builds hope.The importance of community and allowing others to hold hope for you when you can't.Why purpose can exist alongside pain.Practical ways to nurture hope, even when circumstances haven't changed.If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another protective parent who may need to hear that they are not alone.If this episode brought up thoughts of suicide or you feel like you may be in immediate emotional danger, please don't go through this alone. Here are some resources.United States & CanadaCall or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day.Chat online through the 988 Lifeline website.International Suicide Hotlines and Resources https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwidePlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Colorado recently signed HB26-1309 into law, and many survivors and protective parents are asking what it actually means for families navigating family court.I break down what I am learning about HB26-1309, a bill focused on domestic violence, coercive control, and child safety in Colorado family courts.While some headlines make it sound like family court has been completely transformed overnight, the reality is more nuanced. Many of the protections addressed in this bill already existed in Colorado law. What HB26-1309 primarily does is clarify, reorganize, and strengthen how courts are expected to analyze evidence of domestic violence and coercive control.We discuss:What changes were actually made to Colorado lawWhy requiring courts to make findings on the record may matterHow coercive control is addressed within the statuteWhat attorneys are saying about how they may use these changes in practicePotential benefits for survivors and protective parentsRemaining concerns about implementation and court cultureI also share insights from attorneys who were closely involved with the bill and discuss how these changes could influence litigation strategy, evidence presentation, and judicial accountability moving forward.HB26-1309 does not automatically change custody orders or fix family court overnight. But it may create greater clarity, accountability, and recognition of abuse dynamics within the legal process.Whether you're navigating family court yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you understand both the promise and limitations of this new law.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What if the therapy that was supposed to help actually made things worse?For many survivors of coercive control, couples therapy doesn't bring clarity, it deepens confusion, self-doubt, and shame.In this episode, I'm joined by licensed marriage and family therapist Frances Russell to talk about why traditional couples therapy can be harmful when coercive control or domestic violence is present. We discuss what survivors should know, what therapists often miss, and why understanding patterns of power and control—not just isolated incidents—is essential.Whether you're a survivor wondering why couples therapy didn't work or a mental health professional wanting to better recognize coercive control, this conversation offers practical insights and compassionate validation.In this episode, we discuss:Why couples therapy can unintentionally reinforce coercive control.How neutrality can cause harm when abuse is present.The subtle signs therapists should be watching for.Why assessment for coercive control is an ongoing process—not a one-time intake questionnaire.The difference between incident-based and pattern-based thinking.What survivors can do if they're looking back and realizing therapy caused additional harm.Considerations for therapists when ending couples therapy due to safety concerns.What to know about therapy notes, confidentiality, and family court.About Frances: Frances works as a therapist for both individuals and couples, and specializes in trauma recovery, helping people rebuild trust in themselves, others and life after experiences that have shattered it. She works with clients who want to process childhood abuse and neglect as well as others who come in to process recent, traumatic experiences between themselves and their partner. She primarily uses Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with couples and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with individuals. In addition to being a therapist, Frances is a trauma-informed yoga instructor with Comeback Yoga, an organization that supports veterans and their families. Frances also teaches graduate students at Regis University and her courses include Crisis, Trauma and Loss and Human Growth and Development.In her free time, Frances enjoys staying active and getting outdoors through running, backpacking and skiing. She is also always on the lookout for new restaurants and recipes.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Attachment theory has become one of the most talked-about topics in the dating and relationship world.You have probably heard terms like anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, secure attachment, and disorganized attachment. Maybe you've even wondered whether your attachment style played a role in your abusive relationship.But what if attachment theory isn't about blaming yourself?In this episode, I unpack attachment styles through a trauma-informed lens and explore how understanding your attachment patterns can support healing, self-awareness, and future relationships after abuse.We discuss:What attachment theory actually is (and what it isn't)The four primary attachment stylesChildhood experiences that can contribute to different attachment patternsWhy attachment styles are adaptations, not character flawsHow attachment styles can influence dating and relationshipsThe role attachment may play in how we experience attention, connection, and love bombingWhy survivors should be cautious about using attachment theory as a form of self-blameHow coercive control and abusive relationships can create attachment injuries of their ownWhy understanding yourself is often more important than trying to become an expert at spotting abusersOne of the most important takeaways from this conversation is that attachment styles do not explain why someone was abused.Abuse happens because someone chose to abuse.Understanding your attachment style can be incredibly helpful for healing, building self-awareness, and creating healthier relationships moving forward. But it should never be used as evidence that you caused, invited, or deserved the abuse you experienced.If you've ever wondered how attachment theory fits into your healing journey, this episode is for you.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What if your body isn’t betraying you… but trying to protect you?In this episode, we’re rethinking the relationship survivors often have with their bodies after trauma. I’m joined by Karianne Gwinn to talk about the very real physical impact domestic violence and chronic stress can have on the body, including digestive issues, chronic pain, fatigue, nervous system dysregulation, and feeling disconnected from yourself.We also explore what healing can look like beyond just “thinking differently” — including bottom-up, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches that help survivors reconnect with safety, regulation, and their bodies in a more compassionate way.If you’ve ever felt frustrated by symptoms your body seems to hold onto long after the relationship ended, this conversation may help you understand why.In this episode, we discuss:The physical impact of trauma and chronic stressNervous system dysregulation after abuseDigestive issues, chronic pain, and traumaWhy healing is not just cognitiveSomatic and mindfulness-based healing approachesRebuilding trust and connection with your bodyAbout Karianne: Karianne Gwinn is a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, Psychosomatic Practitioner, speaker, and cancer survivor who specializes in helping people cultivate whole-person wellbeing in the aftermath of major health challenges and trauma. Drawing from training in nutrition, nervous system regulation, and psychosomatic healing—as well as her own lived experience—she helps people better understand the relationship between stress, trauma, the body, and healing.Karianne is especially passionate about helping people rebuild trust with their bodies after experiences that leave them feeling disconnected, fearful, or confused. Her approach blends evidence-informed wellness practices with deep compassion, practicality, and a healthy dose of humanity. She believes healing doesn’t require perfection—and that sometimes the most powerful shifts begin with very small, very doable changes. Connect with Karianne at kariannegwinn.comPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Your child stopped fighting parenting time… but something still feels off. In this FCC episode, we unpack what may be happening when a young child goes from visible distress to emotional shutdown during transitions, how to think about attachment and regulation, and ways to support reconnection while avoiding assumptions or panic. From a child mental health perspective, what could be happening when a child goes from intense distress at transitions to seeming quiet or shut down?Is my ex right that this means things are getting better because she isn’t kicking and screaming anymore?How do you tell the difference between adjustment, developmental changes, and a child protecting themselves emotionally?How can I support my daughter before and after transitions without making things harder for her?Are there signs I should watch for that suggest she may need more support, even if exchanges look “easier” on the surface?Want to have your questions featured on a Friday Coaching Corner? Send me a short summary of your situation and 2–3 questions at [email protected]: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What if “coparenting” isn’t failing because you are doing it wrong?And instead, it is not working because the map you were given on how to do it is not meant for “coparenting” with someone abusive.The way that our system is designed sets a huge trap for protective parents who want to do everything they can to protect their children and allows for someone who uses coercive control to maneuver in ways that continue to abuse.While there are many traps that happen within this larger system, three of the ones that seem to impact protective parents the most are:Attempting to be the perfect parentAttempting to convince your child of the truth about the other parentParenting from a reactionary stance and survival mode.And all of these traps do not allow you to show up as the parent you want to be.  In this episode, I share the reasons for these traps and a starting point for maneuvering around them so that you can parent from a values-based perspective rather than from fear.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

If you're sharing children with an abusive or controlling ex, parenting can feel like walking a tightrope.Every mistake feels high stakes. Every emotional moment feels like evidence. And many protective moms carry a quiet fear that if they don't do everything perfectly, they could lose connection with their child—or worse.In this episode, I'm challenging the myth of perfect parenting and exploring what children actually need from us.Because despite what family court, your ex, social media, or your own inner critic may have convinced you of, your child does not need a perfect parent.They need a safe one.You'll learn why so many protective parents feel overwhelming pressure to get everything right, how trauma and chronic stress impact your ability to show up the way you want to, and why repair matters far more than perfection.Most importantly, you'll walk away with a gentler, more realistic standard for parenting during one of the hardest seasons of your life.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What happens when a parenting plan leaves too much room for interpretation?In this episode, we’re talking about one of the biggest mistakes survivors make during divorce and custody negotiations: agreeing to vague parenting plans that unintentionally create openings for ongoing manipulation, conflict, and coercive control.I’m joined by Cat Climaco to discuss why detailed, clearly written parenting plans matter so much in high-conflict and abusive co-parenting situations. We break down some of the most common loopholes narcissistic or controlling co-parents exploit, including pick-up and drop-off logistics, extracurricular activities, communication expectations, and what happens when parents with joint decision-making reach an impasse.We also talk about how to advocate for a more specific parenting plan when attorneys or mediators push back and prefer “standard” or cookie-cutter agreements.If you’re currently negotiating a parenting plan or struggling with one that feels impossible to navigate, this episode will help you understand why clarity and specificity matter far more than most people realize.In This Episode We Discuss:Common parenting plan loopholesWhy vague agreements create more conflictDecision-making impasse clausesExtracurricular and exchange challengesAdvocating for specificity with attorneys About Cat: Cat Climaco, Founder of Peaceful Presence Divorce Coaching, is a nationally certified High-Conflict Divorce, Custody, and Co-Parenting Coach, mediator, DASH Risk Assessor, and trauma-informed Colorado Victim's Advocate who specializes in helping protective parents navigate complex, high-conflict family court cases to achieve greater peace and safety in life after divorce. Cat blends professional expertise with lived experience to support parents facing coercive control, post-separation abuse, abusive co-parenting, and cases involving children with additional emotional or developmental needs. Connect w/ Cat: https://www.peacefulpresencedivorcecoaching.comhttps://www.instagram.com/peacefulpresencedivorcecoach/https://www.facebook.com/peacefulpresencedivorcecoaching/https://www.linkedin.com/in/catclimaco/https://www.youtube.com/@PeacefulPresenceDivorceCoachhttps://www.peacefulpresencedivorcecoaching.com/workshops-documentationPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What if the reason you can’t relax… is because your body learned that calm never lasted and does not mean you are safe?In this episode, I’m talking about something so many survivors experience after coercive control and domestic violence: feeling constantly on edge, even when nothing is actively happening. The messages stop. The house is quiet. Things seem calm. But your body still feels like it’s bracing for impact.We explore why survivors often struggle to feel safe even after separation, how trauma and unpredictability train the nervous system to stay hypervigilant, and why this is not a character flaw or “loving drama.” It’s survival.I also break down the difference between being safe and feeling safe, the role of the nervous system and amygdala in trauma responses, and why healing has to include more than just insight or positive thinking.Most importantly, we talk about “felt safety” — those moments where your body starts to believe you might actually be okay — and how building those moments can change the way you parent, communicate, respond to stress, and begin healing after abuse.In This Episode We Discuss:Why survivors feel anxious even during calm momentsHypervigilance and the nervous system after abuseThe impact of unpredictability in coercive controlWhy healing is not just cognitiveFelt safety and nervous system regulationHow trauma responses impact parentingPractical grounding and regulation strategiesThe difference between being safe and feeling safeIf you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t I just relax?” this episode is for you.Nervous System episodes: Ep 150: Post-Separation Abuse Burnout: A Nervous System Perspective https://www.buzzsprout.com/1991648/episodes/17103086 Ep 11: Your Nervous System is Shot: Strategies to Move Out of Fight, Flight, and Freeze https://www.buzzsprout.com/1991648/episodes/11272280Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What happens when the parent who was minimally involved suddenly becomes “Parent of the Year” once court professionals start watching?In this Friday Coaching Corner episode, we’re talking about a situation many protective parents quietly fear:A second court evaluation where the abusive parent is seeking 50/50 parenting time and increased decision-making authority while pushing a narrative that the protective parent is exaggerating concerns or harming the child through over-medicalizing or overprotectiveness.Meanwhile, the protective parent feels terrified of looking emotional, reactive, or “high conflict” while trying to advocate for their children’s safety and well-being.If you are navigating a PRE, custody evaluation, or other family court professional process, this episode will help you think more strategically about grounding yourself, communicating clearly, and staying focused on your children’s needs.Questions from this episode:Can a PRE evaluator in Colorado recommend decision-making authority?How do I show up credibly when my ex suddenly acts like the perfect parent once people are watching?How do I talk about coercive control and my children’s wellbeing without sounding reactive or “high conflict”?Want to have your questions featured on a Friday Coaching Corner? Send me a short summary of your situation and 2–3 questions at [email protected]: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

We don’t talk enough about the real collateral damage of broken systems.And it’s not just survivors.It’s our kids.In this episode, I’m naming something that so many of you are living through but rarely see acknowledged out loud — the ways children are impacted when systems like family court, child protection, and even therapeutic settings fail to fully understand coercive control and domestic violence.Because this isn’t just about what happened in the relationship.It’s about what continues to happen after separation… when you’re doing everything “right,” and your child is still paying the price.We’re talking about the full spectrum of collateral damage — from the quieter, everyday barriers (like not being able to access therapy due to joint decision-making) to the more extreme and devastating outcomes that can occur when abuse is minimized, misunderstood, or ignored.This episode is honest. It’s heavy.And it also holds space for hope — because that matters too.In this episode, we cover:How coercive control and post-separation abuse continue to impact kidsWhy joint decision-making can block access to critical careHow children learn to stay silent in medical, legal, and therapeutic settingsThe impact of misinformed professionals (including in therapy and court)How fear, threats, and “provoke and record” dynamics affect childrenThe misuse of terms like “parental alienation” and its consequencesWhat happens when abuse (including sexual abuse) is not believed or substantiatedThe emotional and psychological toll on protective parents and childrenPeer-Reviewed Articleshttps://www.law.georgetown.edu/georgetown-law-journal/wp-content/uploads/sites/26/2022/06/Meier_Denial-of-Family-Violence-in-Court.pdfhttps://scholarship.law.gwu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2809&context=faculty_publicationshttps://scholarship.law.gwu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1857&context=faculty_publicationshttps://barrygoldstein.net/component/tags/tag/the-saunders-studyPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What actually happens when domestic violence cases enter the courtroom?In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Carol Ann Peterson—expert witness, consultant, and longtime advocate—who brings a behind-the-scenes look at how abuse is understood (and often misunderstood) in criminal, civil, and family court.We talk about what expert witnesses really do, when they can make a difference, and why context—not isolated incidents—is critical in understanding abuse. Dr. Peterson also shares how survivors are often misperceived in court, how abusers present, and what decision-makers frequently get wrong.This conversation pulls back the curtain on the systems many survivors are navigating—and highlights where change is still urgently needed.About Carol Ann: Dr. Carol Ann Peterson is an expert witness, consultant, and nationally recognized trainer specializing in domestic and intimate partner violence. She has trained with the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and has consulted with the U.S. Attorney General’s Office, the California Attorney General’s Office, the Los Angeles County District Attorney, and the Los Angeles City Attorney.Dr. Peterson has served as an expert witness in criminal, civil, and family court cases for both prosecution and defense, including district attorneys, public defenders, and private attorneys. She is a certified strangulation prevention expert and a member of the Expert Advisory Group for DomesticShelters.org.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

A lot of survivors feel exhausted for a long time.Physically tired.Mentally overloaded.Emotionally drained.And then one day, something shifts.Anger shows up.And what surprises many people is not just the anger. It is the energy that comes with it.In this episode, we are looking at anger in a different way. Not just as something to manage or calm down, but as something that can actually be useful when you understand how to work with it.Because anger is one of the few emotions that brings movement back into a system that has been stuck in survival mode.In this episode, we talk about:• Why trauma often leads to exhaustion and low energy • What is happening in your body when anger shows up • Why anger can feel uncomfortable or even scary • The ways anger often gets pushed down or turned inward • How anger can support boundaries and decision making • The difference between feeling anger and acting on it • Practical ways to release and direct anger energy • How anger can reconnect you with your values and your voiceThis episode is especially helpful if you have started to feel more anger and are not sure what to do with it.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What actually happens in a domestic violence assessment? And how do you know if you even need one?In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Lisa Fontes, an expert in coercive control and domestic violence assessments, to talk about something many survivors are navigating but don’t fully understand — how these evaluations and expert witnesses show up in family court.If you’ve ever been told to “get an expert” or wondered if that would help your case, this conversation will give you a clearer picture of what that actually means and when it might (and might not) be helpful.We also talk about the reality that many survivors face in family court — where experiences like coercive control, sexual coercion, and post-separation abuse are often misunderstood, minimized, or not given the weight they deserve.Inside this episode, we talk about:• What a domestic violence or coercive control assessment actually looks like • The difference between an expert witness and a subject matter expert • When an expert can be helpful in family court — and when they may not be necessary • Why self-report assessments can be unreliable in abuse cases • How coercive control and sexual abuse often go unrecognized in legal settings • What “manufactured” claims and “provoke and record” tactics can look like • The misuse of the term “parental alienation” and how it shows up in court • Why post-separation abuse is often missed — and why that matters • How to evaluate whether an expert witness is actually qualified • The growing trend of survivors pursuing civil cases for damagesThis episode is especially relevant if you are navigating family court, dealing with custody issues, or trying to figure out how to advocate for yourself in systems that may not fully understand abuse.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

At some point in healing, a lot of people hit this moment:You were making progress.You were starting to feel a shift.And then… it feels like nothing is happening anymore.It can feel confusing. Frustrating. Even discouraging.In this episode, we’re talking about something that does not get talked about enough: the phase of healing where things slow down and it starts to feel like you are stuck.If you have caught yourself thinking: Am I actually getting better? Why does this feel harder again? Shouldn’t I be further along by now?You are not alone.What many survivors don’t realize is that there is a phase of healing that is less about big changes and more about integration. And that phase often feels quiet, slow, and sometimes even uncomfortable.In this episode, we talk about:• Why healing is not linear and tends to happen in layers • What the plateau phase actually is and why it matters • Why things can feel slower after the initial stages of healing • What is happening in your nervous system during this time • Signs you are healing that are easy to miss • Why comparison can make this phase feel worse • How to look at progress in a more realistic way • What actually helps during this stagePlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

When child protection gets involved, it can feel like everything your ex threatened is starting to happen.Many survivors were told: “If you leave, I’ll make sure everyone thinks you’re unstable—and I’ll take the kids.”So when CPS opens an investigation, the fear isn’t just about the process.It’s about the possibility that the narrative could be turned against you.In this Friday Coaching Corner episode, we’re talking about how to navigate a CPS investigation when there is a history of coercive control—and when you’re worried your ex will present well while you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or misunderstood.We’ll walk through:How to gauge whether a caseworker understands coercive control and domestic violenceHow to present in a way that is grounded, credible, and child-focused (without overexplaining)What CPS is often paying attention to beyond first impressionsHow to prepare your children in a supportive way without coaching or adding pressureThis episode also focuses on something that often gets missed:You don’t need to outperform your ex. You need to stay steady, consistent, and anchored in what your children need.If you’re in the middle of an investigation—or fear this could happen—this conversation will help you move from panic to strategy.Want to have your questions featured on a Friday Coaching Corner? Send me a short summary of your situation and 2–3 questions at [email protected]: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Sometimes the deepest wound isn't just what happened to you.It's what happens when you try to explain it, and no one believes you.In this episode, we are talking about epistemic injury — a form of harm that happens when your reality, your knowledge, or your credibility is questioned, dismissed, or minimized. Many survivors of coercive control experience this not only in their relationships but also in the systems they turn to for help.If you have ever walked out of a meeting, court appointment, therapy session, or conversation, wondering: Did I explain that wrong? Did I sound crazy? Maybe it really is me…You are not alone. And you are not imagining the impact this has on you.In this episode, we talk about:• What epistemic injury is and why it affects so many survivors • How not being believed can recreate the effects of gaslighting • Why this type of injury can be so destabilizing to your identity • How systemic betrayal connects to epistemic injury • Signs you may be dealing with epistemic injury • How healing begins by rebuilding trust in your own perception • Why healing sometimes means protecting your reality instead of proving itThis conversation is especially important for survivors navigating family court, post-separation abuse, or professional systems that may not fully understand coercive control.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What if the most important parts of your story were never being asked about?Many survivors share a similar fear when the call in law enforcement for help:What if they only look at what happened that day… and not everything that led up to it?I'm talking with law enforcement captain, Eric Threlkeld who has over 30 years of experience to talk about something that needs to be discussed more openly: why domestic violence cannot be understood by looking at a single incident, and why patterns of coercive control matter far more than one moment in time.We talk about what officers are typically trained to look for, what often gets missed, and what happens when professionals start asking different questions.This conversation also highlights something I want survivors to hear clearly: there are people inside these systems working to better understand coercive control and push for change.Inside this conversation, we discuss:• Why domestic violence is a community issue, not just a law enforcement issue• Why focusing on one incident can miss the real danger• How trauma impacts how survivors tell their stories• Why survivors may appear overwhelmed or emotional when finally asking for help • Why lethality assessments matter • How multidisciplinary teams can improve outcomes • The role survivors and advocates play in creating change • Why this work can feel discouraging and why it still mattersIf you have ever worried that professionals only saw your reaction instead of what you were reacting to, this episode is for you.Book - STRANGLED: A Survivor's Plea To Men Who Look The Other Way https://www.amazon.com/STRANGLED-Survivors-Plea-Look-Other/dp/B0G8RZX8LVPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What happens when the place you expected to find support becomes another place where you feel unseen?In this episode, we talk about religious betrayal and how it shows up for survivors of coercive control and domestic abuse. Many survivors seek guidance from faith leaders or communities and are met with messages that unintentionally reinforce harm rather than safety.We explore how advice meant to preserve relationships can sometimes ignore patterns of power and control, and why this can create deep confusion, shame, and self-doubt.This conversation also introduces the idea of moral injury and how it can happen when your core values around safety, protection, and dignity collide with messages telling you to tolerate harm.If you’ve ever wondered:Did I fail? Did I give up too soon? Did I do something wrong?I hope to offer a different perspective.You may not have failed your faith. You may have been protecting what matters most.This episode will help you start separating harmful messages from your own values and begin rebuilding trust in your own inner compass.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Have you ever felt like your ex keeps pushing and pushing until you finally react… and then suddenly you’re the problem?In this episode, we’re talking about what I often call manufactured crazy — when someone intentionally provokes reactions and then uses those reactions to support a narrative that you are unstable, high-conflict, or difficult to work with.We also discuss dog whistles — subtle phrases or references that sound harmless to others but are meant to trigger you because of your shared history. When you react, the focus often shifts to your response instead of the pattern of provocation that led up to it.This episode explores why this happens, why your nervous system reacts the way it does, and how learning to recognize the setup can help you move from reacting emotionally to responding strategically.If you’ve ever thought “that is exactly what they wanted me to do,” this conversation will help you understand why — and what you can do differently next time.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What do you do when you know vague parenting plan language will create problems, but your attorney says you’re asking for too much detail?In this Bonus Coaching episode, we look at a common situation many protective parents face: trying to create clear agreements around things like extracurricular activities, schedule changes, and communication expectations after experiencing patterns of manipulation or conflict.When you’ve lived through chaos, wanting clarity isn’t about control. It’s often about trying to protect peace for you and your children.In this episode, we discuss:How to tell the difference between healthy specificity and fear-based overplanningHow to advocate for clearer language when your attorney doesn’t fully understand coercive control dynamicsCommon vague areas in parenting plans that often create problems laterIf you’ve ever been told you’re being too detailed when you’re really just trying to prevent future conflict, this episode is for you.Want to have your questions featured on a Friday Coaching Corner? Send me a short summary of your situation and 2–3 questions at [email protected]: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

There is something many survivors quietly wonder but don’t always say out loud:Will this ever end?Will my kids be okay?Will I ever feel like myself again?In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer, who spent over a decade navigating post-separation abuse and repeated family court litigation. Her story isn’t shared to scare you. It’s shared because so many survivors are living this reality and need to know they are not alone and that hope is still possible.We talk about what it actually looks like to survive years of legal conflict while still showing up for your children, managing fear about what could happen next, and holding onto small pieces of hope along the way.Jennifer shares honestly about:The emotional toll of repeated court motions and legal uncertaintyThe exhaustion of constant documentation and preparing for the unknownThe fear of lies being told in court that you cannot fully prepare forBut this conversation is also about what survivors rarely get to hear:What happens when you start to see the light at the end of the tunnel.One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation:Healing isn’t just about surviving the legal process.It’s about eventually finding yourself again.If you are in the middle of this right now and feel exhausted, discouraged, or unsure if things will ever get better, this episode is meant to remind you:You can make it through this. Your kids can be okay. And there is life after survival mode.Connect with Jennifer: https://open.substack.com/pub/jenniferpeyton356426Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Have you ever walked out of a court hearing, a meeting with a professional, or even a hard parenting moment and thought, “Well, that didn’t come out the way I meant it?”Maybe your anxiety came out sharp.  Maybe your urgency sounded like anger.Or maybe you were doing everything you knew of to protect your child but feel like you showed up as “mentally unstable.”When you have lived through coercive control and continued post separation abuse, your nervous system will continually scan for danger and has been conditioned to suppress specific emotions like anger.  This can be a huge obstacle as you heal and try to get decision makers to understand the truth about what is going on.In this episode, we dive into why emotional intelligence is one of the biggest healing and protective strategies for you and your children.  Emotional intelligence is about noticing what is happening inside you so that you can show up in ways you feel good about.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

How are you, really? With the Jeffrey Epstein coverage everywhere, many survivors are feeling triggered, angry, betrayed, and exhausted. The language in the media. The redactions. The victim blaming. The protection of powerful people. It is a reminder of the same power and control dynamics many of you are living through in family court and post separation abuse.In this episode, I am not breaking down the files or diving into case details. Instead, I am talking about the impact.Why this coverage hits so hard.Why systemic betrayal feels personal.Why it is exhausting to watch people in power protect each other.And what you can do if you find yourself doomscrolling, dysregulated, or unable to turn it off.We talk about:The harm of language that minimizes abuseHow power structures silence victimsWhy betrayal from trusted public figures feels destabilizingWhen to limit exposure to mediaHow to protect your nervous systemThe two steps that actually matter if we want changeIf you are overwhelmed, you are not weak.If you are angry, it makes sense.If you need to turn it off, you are allowed.Believe survivors.Hold people accountable.That is where it starts.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

We have been conditioned to be polite over safe. To make others comfortable even when our bodies are signaling danger. To be small, sweet, accommodating.That conditioning increases risk for women, especially survivors of coercive control. What kept you safer inside an abusive relationship can make you more vulnerable outside of it.I unpack why love bombing is better understood as grooming. It is not just gifts or grand gestures. It is learning your values and vulnerabilities so they can be used later.We also talk about:Trusting your body’s warning signalsSeeing trauma responses as dataPracticing strategic rudeness when something feels offUsing the broken record approach in communicationNaming patterns clearly with an ex or even professionalsTeaching your children discernment instead of forced politenessYour discomfort matters.Your instincts matter.And awareness is the first step in breaking this conditioning for you and your kids.If this episode brings something up for you, I would love to hear from you.BOOK: The Gift of Fear: https://a.co/d/0gxTtekZPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

A mother of three is navigating ongoing post-separation abuse from two different ex-partners. After disagreeing with a proposed school and therapist change, her second ex escalated with threats of full custody, weaponizing her trauma history and mental health. Shortly after, her first ex announced a move near the second ex, and she discovered the two men have been communicating.With limited financial resources, no attorney, and little outside support, she is trying to understand what is happening, how to protect herself and her children, and how to respond without making the situation worse.This episode explores coordinated coercive tactics, fear-based legal threats, and how protective parents can ground themselves, preserve stability, and respond strategically without escalating conflict.Questions Answered in This EpisodeHave you ever seen two abusive ex-partners coordinate or team up, and why does this happen?How should a protective parent respond when custody threats and mental health accusations are used as leverage after saying no?What practical steps can you take to protect yourself and your children, especially when you cannot afford an attorney and want to avoid court?Want your question featured in a future Friday Coaching Corner? Send a short paragraph explaining your situation and 2–3 specific questions to [email protected] the free script guide, Protective Parenting Scripts for Hard Moments: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/parentingscriptsDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Family court is one of the most overwhelming environments a trauma survivor can face.For some survivors, the idea of court brings intense anxiety, panic, or shutdown. For others, it feels like a space where they must perform calm and composure at all costs, even when their nervous system is under threat.What many survivors do not realize is that disability rights may apply in family court, including for conditions like anxiety and PTSD.In this episode, we begin a grounded, realistic conversation about disability rights in family court, with a specific focus on what survivors with anxiety or PTSD should know before deciding whether to request accommodations.This episode is not about telling you what you should do.It is about helping you understand what may be possible, what the risks are, and how to think strategically about access to justice in a system that was not designed with trauma in mind.Transparency MattersI want to name this clearly. I am not an expert in disability law or ADA accommodations. In this episode, you are learning alongside me as I share what I have been able to research and understand so far.This is a starting point, not the end of the conversation. In Part 2, I plan to invite a guest who specializes in disability rights and court access so we can explore this topic more deeply and responsibly, including best practices and real world considerations.Colorado Court ADA InformationADA Frequently Asked Questionshttps://www.coloradojudicial.gov/ada-faq-0Request for Accommodation by a Person with a Disabilityhttps://www.coloradojudicial.gov/request-adaColorado Judicial Department ADA Overviewhttps://www.coloradojudicial.gov/adaDisability Rights SupportDisability Law Coloradohttps://disabilitylawco.orgDownload the free script guide, Protective Parenting Scripts for Hard Moments: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/parentingscriptsPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What happens when survivors of domestic violence and coercive control enter family court isn’t just anecdotal — it’s documented, researched, and deeply concerning.In this episode of The Rising Beyond Podcast, Sybil is joined by Joan S. Meier, Professor of Clinical Law at George Washington University Law School and founder of the National Family Violence Law Center, and Danielle Pollack, Policy Manager at the Center, to unpack what decades of research and policy work reveal about how family courts respond to abuse allegations — and why so many protective parents feel disbelieved, punished, or silenced.Together, they explore how concepts like parental alienation are frequently weaponized against survivors, how unregulated reunification programs put children at risk, and what policy efforts like Kayden’s Law are doing to change the system. This conversation also speaks directly to therapists, advocates, and professionals, offering insight into how research can inform ethical practice, advocacy, and trauma-informed testimony.NSPO: https://www.nationalsafeparents.org/ About the GuestsJoan S. MeierProfessor of Clinical Law at George Washington University Law School and founder of the National Family Violence Law Center. Joan is a leading national expert on domestic violence, child abuse, and family court outcomes, and the lead author of the landmark study examining how courts respond to abuse allegations in custody cases.Website: https://www.nfvlc.org/Danielle PollackPolicy Manager at the National Family Violence Law Center. Danielle works at the intersection of research and legislation, helping states adopt laws that better protect children and survivors, including implementation efforts related to Kayden’s Law. She also supports survivor-led advocacy through the National Safe Parents Organization (NSPO).Join me on February 18th at 12pm MST for the Parenting to Combat Coercive Control Live Workshop for protective moms focused on protecting and repairing the parent–child relationship: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/coercive-controlPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What happens when one parent leans on a child emotionally and you are determined not to do the same?Many protective parents notice it quietly at first.Their child starts worrying about the other parent.They feel responsible for adult emotions.They try to comfort, reassure, or stabilize situations that are far beyond their role.And when you are isolated, overwhelmed, or under constant pressure, the temptation to lean back can feel very real.In this episode, Sybil explores why children are so often pulled into adult emotional roles after abuse, separation, or high conflict co parenting and why resisting that pull is one of the most protective parenting choices you can make.This episode is not about shaming parents who are struggling.It is about understanding impact, preserving family hierarchy, and keeping children emotionally safe even when the other parent does not.Links to episodes mentioned: Episode 56: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-56-start-healing-from-moral-injury-with-guest-dr/id1633920067?i=1000621633927Episode 50: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-50-how-narcissistic-abuse-leads-to-moral-injury/id1633920067?i=1000616005777Parenting to Combat Coercive Control Live Workshop, Feb 18th 2026: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/coercive-control Download the free script guide, Protective Parenting Scripts for Hard Moments: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/parentingscriptsPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Parenting plans, mediation, and negotiations are some of the most stressful parts of divorce — especially when abuse, coercive control, or high conflict are involved.In this episode of The Rising Beyond Podcast, Sybil is joined by Laura, a family law mediator and co-parenting coach, to unpack what mediation can look like when it is truly child-centered and trauma-informed — and when it isn’t.Laura brings years of experience mediating high-conflict parenting cases involving domestic violence, substance use, and power imbalances. Together, they explore how mediation can either reinforce harm or become a place where autonomy, safety, and children’s real needs are finally centered.This conversation is especially helpful for protective parents who feel trapped by cookie-cutter parenting plans, fear retaliation for speaking up, or are being pressured to “just agree” for the sake of the court.In This Episode, We DiscussWhy mediation often feels re-traumatizing for survivors — and how it can be done differentlyThe importance of autonomy after coercive controlWhy “getting to agreement” is not the same as creating a safe parenting planHow documenting only the bad can distort negotiationsLaura Lorber is an MC3 Certified Mediator, Certified Co-Parenting Specialist, and Program for Infant-Toddler Care (PITC) Fellow. She brings a deeply reflective and facilitative approach to complex family matters, including high-conflict co-parenting, interpersonal violence, and elder care. Laura’s evolving theory of mediation centers on the idea that every conflict offers a chance to model and teach — giving families a lasting legacy of learning to navigate challenges with understanding, resilience, and care for future generations.Connect with Laura:Website: www.lauralorberjd.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauramlorber/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lmlorber/Join me on February 18th at 12pm MST for the Parenting to Combat Coercive Control Live Workshop for protective moms focused on protecting and repairing the parent–child relationship: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/coercive-controlPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

In this Friday Coaching Corner, Sybil responds to a protective mother navigating ongoing post-separation abuse involving her highly gifted, autistic teenager. The abusive co-parent has repeatedly pulled the child into adult financial and legal conflicts, framing the protective parent as the cause of manufactured crises and positioning himself as the victim and rescuer.Over time, the child has become increasingly aligned with the abusive parent — repeating legal language, expressing contempt toward court-ordered support, rejecting care from the protective parent, and threatening legal consequences when demands aren’t met. This episode explores what happens when a child is placed in an impossible loyalty bind and the emotional toll this takes on both the child and the protective parent.Questions Answered in This EpisodeHow do you respond when your child has been weaponized against you and genuinely believes the abusive parent’s narrative?How can a protective parent hold boundaries when their child uses legal threats, contempt, or adult language learned from the abusive parent?What does staying connected look like when your child is rejecting you to remain loyal to the abusive parent?How can protective parents grieve the loss of connection without collapsing, over-explaining, or losing themselves in the process?Want your question featured in a future Friday Coaching Corner? Send a short paragraph explaining your situation and 2–3 specific questions to [email protected] me on February 18th at 12pm MST for the Parenting to Combat Coercive Control Live Workshop for protective moms focused on protecting and repairing the parent–child relationship: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/coercive-controlDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Custody evaluations tend to bring up two very different reactions for survivors.For some, the idea of an evaluation is terrifying, especially if they have heard stories about how much power evaluators hold and how often survivors feel misunderstood or mischaracterized.For others, a custody evaluation feels like hope. It can feel like the moment they will finally be seen, believed, or taken seriously after months or years of being dismissed.Both reactions make sense.In this episode, we break down what custody evaluators are actually supposed to assess, where the process often breaks down, especially in cases involving coercive control or post-separation abuse, and what options survivors may have if the evaluation does not reflect their reality.This episode is not meant to scare you or tell you to expect the worst.It is about understanding the process well enough to reduce surprises and protect yourself emotionally and strategically.Resources mentioned in this episode:Rocks in a Jar technique: https://youtu.be/ibqemrMJe2w (If you're short on time, scroll to 10:30 in the video)Project Justice USA: https://www.projectjusticeusa.com/Join me on February 18th at 12pm MST for the Parenting to Combat Coercive Control Live Workshop for protective moms focused on protecting and repairing the parent–child relationship: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/coercive-controlPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Should you keep trying to repair a relationship, or is it time to walk away? If you’ve found yourself repeatedly questioning the level of toxicity in your relationships — with a parent, sibling, friend, or even a new romantic partner — this episode will help you sort through the tug of war inside your body and mind.For many survivors of narcissistic abuse, the end of an abusive marriage doesn’t magically clarify all of the other relationships in your life. Instead, it often brings more confusion. You may start noticing behaviors you once excused, feeling drained after interactions, or wondering whether you are seeing red flags or simply overreacting because of your trauma history. And when you’re already carrying the emotional weight of post-separation abuse and rebuilding your life, the question “Should I mend this relationship or should I go?” can feel overwhelming.To help bring clarity, I sit down with Kate King, LPC, who offers a grounded framework for checking in with your authentic self to decide whether a relationship can be repaired with boundaries or whether it’s healthier — and safer — to step away. We talk about:What your nervous system is trying to tell you about a relationshipHow your trauma history influences the way you assess safetyWhat repair actually looks like in healthy relationshipsThe signs that it may be time to move onHow to begin healing through the body, not just the mindKate also shares insights from her upcoming book, Mend or Move On: A Guide to Healing or Leaving Toxic Relationships (coming January 2026), including how survivors can use it to navigate these complex decisions with more confidence and compassion.If you’re wrestling with whether to give someone another chance, set firmer boundaries, or let go completely, this conversation offers clarity, direction, and deep validation.Connect with Kate: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theradiantlifeprojectYouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheRadiantLifeProject Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

If you are a protective parent trying to “co-parent” with a narcissistic ex-partner, you’ve likely found yourself awake at night wondering how all of this will shape your child’s future.Will my child grow up to be an abuser?Will my child end up in abusive relationships themselves?Will my ex succeed in damaging our bond beyond repair?These fears often intensify during the teen years, when behavior becomes more complex and the stakes feel higher.In this episode, I sit down with Riley Cochran, a licensed therapist and true teen whisperer who works with adolescents carrying trauma, big explosive emotions, and sometimes juvenile justice involvement. Riley brings a grounded and compassionate lens to what’s really happening beneath the surface of those challenging teen behaviors.Together, we explore:How to understand the why behind your teen’s difficult or explosive behaviorsWhat trauma responses can look like in adolescentsHow your connection and attachment with your teen can be a source of healingWays to build resilience in your child even when the other parent is undermining youThe power of steady, attuned parenting when a teen is caught in a high-conflict dynamicIf you fear what your ex’s behavior might mean for your child’s long-term emotional health, this episode offers clarity, direction, and hope. You are not powerless — your relationship with your teen still matters more than you think.Riley Cochran is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Addiction Counselor with over a decade of experience supporting high-risk and system-involved youth and families. He serves as the Executive Director of Resolute Counseling Center in Colorado and is the founder of The Guardians Guide, a parent coaching program designed to help caregivers respond to big behaviors and crisis with clarity, confidence, and connection. Riley is known for translating complex mental health concepts into practical, real-world guidance that empowers families to navigate challenging seasons together.Connect with Riley:Website: www.resolutecounselingcenter.com, https://www.rileycochran.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riley_cochran_official Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What do you do when you’re staring down a new year and your life looks nothing like what you imagined? When you’re navigating post-separation abuse, family court chaos, or the long tail of coercive control, the idea of setting goals or creating a “new year plan” can feel impossible — or irrelevant.In this episode, Sybil talks about how to begin again when you’re stuck in the thought “this is not the life I signed up for”. Instead of pretending everything is fine or forcing resolutions you don’t have the energy for, Sybil offers a grounded, compassionate way to approach the start of a new year.You’ll hear about:Why it’s normal to feel stuck or resentful heading into a new year— especially when you’re still in a battle you didn’t choose.How to shift from overwhelm to clarityby identifying what you want now, not what you thought your life would be.Understanding what’s in your control — and what’s notso you can stop pouring energy into dead ends.How to identify small winsand why these matter so much more than big goals when you’re carrying a heavy load.Creating momentum through micro-actionsthat fit your season of life, your capacity, and the reality you're living in.A gentle way to start the yearwithout bypassing the grief or frustration of where you are.This episode is for anyone who is beginning a new year in survival mode, in a hard chapter, or while parenting in the midst of ongoing post-separation abuse. You don’t have to rebuild your entire life right now — but you can start with one clear step that’s within your control.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Take a listen to this episode that listeners come back to frequently.If you are a survivor in the battle ground of family court, would you say that your attorney is representing you well?Do you feel heard?  Or maybe you do not have the financial means to even hire an attorney.And so you find yourself going pro se.  Representing yourself in family court.  This can be extremely scary and it is possible that you will be able to do an even better job going pro se than with an attorney.  On this episode of I have a conversation with Casey Brinkman on how she was able to turn her case around to finally be able to protect herself and her children when she got rid of her attorneys and became pro se.Casey shares her best tips for representing yourself well as well as what a family court coach/consultant can do to help you on this journey.  We discuss the importance of documentation, knowing your rights, doing the right research, how to get evidence in as evidence, and more.  Casey is a dedicated protective mother who spent nearly five years navigating the complexities of the family court system. For just under three years, she worked with an attorney, but it wasn’t until she took on her case pro se in the last two years that she was able to truly have her voice, and her children’s voices, heard. Through her persistence and determination, Casey successfully turned her case around to protect her children, a journey that sparked her passion for helping other protective moms facing similar challenges.Today, Casey channels her experience and expertise into helping other mothers become strong and effective litigants, whether working with an attorney or representing themselves pro se. Her mission is to inspire and equip protective moms to navigate the legal system with confidence, ensuring their children’s best interests remain the top priority.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

I'm sharing this episode again as it's one that many of you listen to frequently. If your parenting plan is not working or there has been a change in yours or your child’s lives to where the parenting plan no longer reflects the actual needed arrangements for the child, what do you do?If you are coparenting with a narcissist, broaching a change in the parenting plan can feel extremely scary.  You know that it will be a catalyst for increased engagement and conflict.  So, what steps can you follow that will help minimize the conflict and increase the likelihood of a change?A change in circumstance might be (not an exhaustive list):A change in address outside of the parenting plan agreementA change in schoolA change in the child’s medical or mental health providersA change in the child’s needs that the current parenting plan does not addressA loss of job that will have an impact on the current parenting planAbuse or NeglectCo-parent is not following the orders AND it is causing harm to the childIf you feel like you need to broach a change in the parenting plan, there are some steps that you can take that will protect you and will increase the likelihood that the plan will be modified.Send the initial message to “put the concern on your co-parent’s radar”Start to accrue data and evidence that the concern is negatively impacting your child and what needs to happen to remedy thisSend a second email stating that the problem is still present, share some of the data, and then write a clear ask of what needs to be done to remedy the situation.Be prepared for your ex to fight back and be an A-holeBe prepared for the next possible steps in a worst case scenarioPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Enjoy this fan-favorite rerun episode with my guest, Kate Amber. What the heck is coercive control anyway?  If you have experienced domestic violence or narcissistic abuse, you have experienced coercive control.  And it’s likely that you have experienced it in ways and by people and systems that are outside of your romantic relationship.In this episode, I have an expert on coercive control, Kate Amber, MS that is going to break it all down for you.  We look at the most common challenges that survivors face as they work through the larger systems and she shares her BioPsychoSocial Quicksand Model as a framework for how professionals in the system can identify coercive control in these cases.In this model we look at the D's:Double StandardsDouble BindsDouble TeamDARVOThe E's:EnsnareEntrapExploitPreventing EscapeAnd the F's:ForceFraudFearThese are all used to maintain control over the target.Kate Amber, MSc, is the founder of End Coercive Control USA (ECCUSA) and an international speaker, consultant, trainer, writer, and expert witness on domestic abuse, coercive control, and extremist groups. She holds advanced certifications in psychology, leadership, human rights, and advocacy, and her award-winning master’s research introduced the BioPsychoSocial Quicksand Model™ of Coercive Control, synthesizing decades of research on abuse, trafficking, cults, gangs, and torture. Kate and ECCUSA have been recognized with multiple Purple Ribbon Awards for survivor leadership and outstanding community education. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Do you ever feel like you “should” be grateful, especially around the holidays — but underneath, you’re still angry, grieving, or exhausted?You’re not doing anything wrong. You’re being human.This episode explores how gratitude and anger can coexist, why both are valid, and how making room for all of your emotions can actually support your healing after abuse and during post-separation parenting.In This Episode, We Talk About:Why this season can intensify conflicting emotionsHow anger can point to your deepest valuesHow to use curiosity and a non-judgemental stance to allow the difficult feelings to coexist with gratitude and peaceGrounding practices and reflections that allow you to connect with yourselfHow to create holiday traditions that reflect your current realityThe power of emotional honesty Ways to hold space for hope without dismissing your painPlease leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

What happens when you have every intention of showing up as the best mom possible and then things go awry and you show up as someone that you do not want to be?Do you beat yourself up for days?  We all have bad mom moments no matter how intentional we are in our parenting.  I even share some of my bad mom moments so that you do not feel alone in this.When those bad mom moments strike, there are things you can do to repair.  And the repair is extremely important because it is one more thing that your child will not experience at their other parent’s home.  In this episode I share some of my greatest tips on how you can repair your relationship with your child to help them grow up connected and resilient.I’d love to hear your bad mom moments if you need a safe place to share them.  Email me at [email protected] leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

How long do you think it takes for someone to heal after leaving a cult?Coercive control is the underlying tactic of narcissistic abuse relationships, often known as a cult of one.Does it give you more self compassion as you work towards healing when you realize that your healing mimics the healing of someone healing from a cult? In this episode of The Rising Beyond Podcast I do a deep dive into the similarities between domestic violence and narcissistic abuse relationships and those of cults with Brooke Deanne.  She uses her personal experience of leaving a high control religion which then led to an abusive romantic relationship to help survivors heal. We discuss the similarities of tactics used post separation or when leaving a cult, how cult experiences may lead to future abusive relationships, and the first steps to healing.Brooke Deanne is a Trauma Healing Mentor, Rapid Transformational Therapist (RTT), and NLP Practitioner empowering female survivors of abuse and trauma to reclaim their lives by rewriting their stories via a holistic approach to access new levels of mind, body, and spirit integration. After overcoming her history of abuse as an ex-Jehovah’s Witness, and toxic relationships, Brooke brings profound insight to her work and as an advocate against religious abuse and domestic violence. She is the author of The Grief Monster, a trusted resource in therapy offices and hospitals to help children process loss, and Shattered, Broken, & Beautiful - Losing My Religion and Finding Faith, a transformative memoir exploring her healing journey from a religious cult and abusive relationships. Brooke also hosts The Cult Diaries podcast. Discover more at https://www.lifecoachinggoddess.com/shattered-broken-beautifulConnect with Brooke:Instagram: @lifecoachinggoddessYouTube: @LifecoachinggoddessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-kekos-253905231/Website: https://www.lifecoachinggoddess.com/Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

In this final Friday Coaching Corner of 2025, Sybil follows up on a previous episode after hearing from a listener whose story echoes so many others navigating malicious interference in the parent–child relationship.This mom has been enduring post-separation abuse for over two years, including weaponized court orders, ignored therapeutic directives, and a teen who has been heavily influenced by the abusive parent. She asks Sybil to address three painful and important questions:How can a mom who has been partially separated from her teen due to manipulation and lies maintain connection outside of the legal and family court systems?Why do teens so often side with the abusive parent, even when that parent is violating orders or causing harm?What steps can a protective parent take to begin radically accepting the situation, especially when their child seems brainwashed, fearful, or aligned with the harmful parent?Listen to episode 2 of the Friday Coaching Corner "When Unconditional Love Looks Like “Being Walked Over”": https://www.buzzsprout.com/1991648/episodes/17927785Want your question featured in a future Friday Coaching Corner? Send a short paragraph explaining your situation and 2–3 specific questions to [email protected]: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice, mental health treatment, or a substitute for advice from professionals familiar with your specific situation. Every parenting plan and court order is different. If you have questions about your legal obligations or your child's safety, consult with a qualified attorney and other professionals knowledgeable about coercive control and family court dynamics. Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Speaking out about abuse is never easy.For survivors of coercive control and domestic violence, telling the truth can feel like reclaiming your voice and your dignity, but telling the truth often comes with a significant cost: retaliation.In this episode I do a deep dive (and a bit of a rant) into the reasons why a narcissist feels the need to retaliate and the steps that they take to silence you and anyone who supports you.  They use threats, smear campaigns, and then move to revenge on a larger scale.This doesn’t only impact the survivor…an abuser will also retaliate against those who support their victim in order to maintain control over the narrative.  The consequence of this is fewer who are willing to stand up and support those who need it the most.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest 

Family court can feel like a battlefield — especially when your ex-partner uses the system as another tool for control. But what if advocacy didn’t have to mean becoming hardened or adversarial?In this episode of The Rising Beyond Podcast, Sybil is joined by Becky Sampson, founder of a subpoena support service and a survivor who turned her own three-and-a-half-year divorce battle into a mission to help others navigate family court with confidence, compassion, and strength.Together, they discuss:Why knowledge is your greatest form of protection — from learning court terminology to understanding your rights.How documentation can make or break your case (and what judges actually look for).The role of subpoenas, when to use them, and why they can be a game-changer in uncovering hidden information.Balancing empathy and boundaries — learning to lead with heart without letting it be weaponized.What self-advocacy looks like for survivors representing themselves in court.Why your worth and your parenting are not defined by the outcome of a case.Whether you’re preparing for your first hearing, fighting post-decree motions, or simply trying to stay steady through the process, this episode offers both practical tools and deep validation.Connect with Becky:Website: https://beckysampson.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcingstrongbeckysampsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckysampson/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beckysampson11/📚 Resources Mentioned:Becky’s free 100 Divorce Terms You Need to Know download — available at beckysampson.comThe Rising Beyond Podcast episodes on documentation, parenting plans, and preparing for court.Please leave us a review or rating and follow/subscribe to the show. This helps the show get out to more people.If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue our conversation over on Instagram! @risingbeyondpcIf you want to support the show, you may do so here at Buy Me A Coffee. Thank you! We love being able to make this information accessible to you and your community.If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/Wondering where to start? Check out our top free resources - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/resources.htmlIf you're interested in guesting on the show, please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest