Diamond Defense Podcast

Dr. Merideth Thompson joins the Diamond Defense Podcast to unpack financial abuse in intimate relationships: what it is, how it overlaps with coercive control, common red flags, safe exit planning, recovery, and how loved ones can help. Self Defense ResourcesDiamond Defensehttps://diamonddefense.com/resourcesOther ResourcesCAPSA (Citizens Against Physical & Sexual Abuse)https://www.capsa.org/ FinAbilityhttps://www.finability.org/ Domestic Violence Hotline (in the United States) 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)thehotline.orgPower and Control Wheels: https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wheels/ Copyright by the Domestic Abuse Intervention ProjectEngage with Us!💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎Have a story you want to share on the podcast? Email us at [email protected] 💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!💎Diamond Defense YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@diamonddefense321 Production TeamCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley Ogden, Dr. Merideth ThompsonMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter Artist: Christy Panchal Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal (ASCAP: 1020882000) 50%, Carrozza Gregory Joseph (BMI: 00528390441) 50%https://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: Pendulous Threads Artist: Doug Stronach Composer: Stronach Douglas (SOCAN: 471111593) 100%https://melod.ie/track-details/6191-pendulous-threads Title: Pivotal Moment Artist: Daniel Greis Composer: Greis Daniel (APRA: 779836466) 100% https://melod.ie/track-details/3091-pivotal-moment💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of emotional abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Please choose how you listen in a way that protects yourself.Think someone you love might be in an abusive relationship? Tiffiny Newton breaks down red flags, coercive control, trauma bonding, and what actually helps when someone is ready to leave.Show NotesTiffiny Newton’s Website: https://tiffinynewton.com/ Self Defense ResourcesDiamond Defense: https://diamonddefense.com/resourcesDomestic Violence Hotline (in the United States): 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)    thehotline.orgRelationships Australia Victoria RAV — What is Coercive Control? Article: https://www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/news/what-is-coercive-control/ Sexual Assault ResourcesNational Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673 https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/Other ResourcesPower and Control Wheels: https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wheels/ Copyright by the Domestic Abuse Intervention ProjectSacramento Family Justice Center: https://www.sacramentofjc.org/ Engage with Us!💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎Have a story you want to share on the podcast? Email us at [email protected] 💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!💎Diamond Defense YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@diamonddefense321 Production TeamCo-Host and Co-Producer: Lisa Co-Host and Co-Producer: Kellie Special ThanksAnn Cobb, Tiffiny Newton, Kelley Ogden, KarinMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Artist: Christy Panchal Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal (ASCAP: 1020882000) 50%, Carrozza Gregory Joseph (BMI: 00528390441) 50%https://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter 💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Eight episodes in, we pause to listen back—to the moments when instinct spoke, boundaries mattered, and survival took shape in real time. This mid-season recap revisits discussions of sexual assault, coercive control, and personal safety; nothing is graphic, but some content may be activating.Self Defense ResourcesDiamond Defensehttps://diamonddefense.com/resourcesDomestic Violence Hotline (in the United States)1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)https://www.thehotline.org/Relationships Australia Victoria RAV — What is Coercive Control? Articlehttps://www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/news/what-is-coercive-control/Sexual Assault ResourcesNational Sexual Assault Hotline – 800-656-4673https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎Have a story you want to share on the podcast? Email us at [email protected] 💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!💎Diamond Defense YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@diamonddefense321 Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley Ogden, Aniko, Jessica, Martha, KarinMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Artist: Christy Panchal Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal (ASCAP: 1020882000) 50%, Carrozza Gregory Joseph (BMI: 00528390441) 50%https://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: Introspection; Artist: Travis A. King Composers: King Travis Adam (APRA: 00400117039) 100%https://melod.ie/track-details/2459-introspection 💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Content Warning: This episode includes personal accounts of coercive control, emotional abuse, intimidation, and fear within a relationship.Understand coercive control relationships and the quiet patterns of emotional abuse hiding in plain sight. This episode explores some of the hidden patterns of emotional and psychological abuse, why they’re so hard to recognize, and how awareness can become a path back to safety. Self-defense instructor Lisa sits down with Karin, a survivor of a long-term coercive control relationship, for a deeply honest, illuminating conversation. Together, they unpack how control took root, how it escalated over time, and how Karin ultimately found her way out.This is not a sensational story. It’s a listening story — one meant to give language to experiences many people feel but struggle to name.Whether you’re questioning a relationship, supporting someone you love, or seeking to understand the quieter forms of abuse that often go unseen, this episode offers insight, validation, and a reminder: control is not love — and safety is possible.Self Defense ResourcesDiamond Defense https://diamonddefense.com/resourcesDomestic Violence Hotline (in the United States)1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)thehotline.orgRelationships Australia Victoria RAV — What is Coercive Control? (Article)https://www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/news/what-is-coercive-control/ 💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎Have a story you want to share on the podcast? Email us at [email protected] 💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley Ogden, KarinMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Artist: Christy Panchal Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal (ASCAP: 1020882000) 50%, Carrozza Gregory Joseph (BMI: 00528390441) 50%https://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: A Change in the Weather Artist: Cookie Cartel Composers: Ancheta Mary Beth (SOCAN: 263187068) 50%, Kearley Dan William (SOCAN: 441100030) 50%https://melod.ie/track-details/2443-a-change-in-the-weather💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Think self-defense is only for the strong or the fearless? Think again. In this episode, Lisa breaks down reality-based training, martial arts options, and the truth about awareness, boundaries, and using your voice as your first weapon. Perfect for anyone ready to feel safer, more grounded, and more confident — no matter your size, age, or starting point.Self Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley OgdenMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composer: Christy Panchalhttps://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter 💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

What do a race car driver, a wolf man, and a maybe–sex-cult recruiter have in common? They each taught a hard-earned lesson in intuition, boundaries, and the courage to walk away. Co-host Kellie turns three wild dating tales — Race Car Driver Man, Wolf Man, and Possible Sex Cult Recruiter Guy — into modern parables on red flags, boundaries, and self-trust. With co-host Lisa, they explore how paying attention and setting boundaries can help keep you safe — with humor, vulnerability, and a little courage thrown in.NSFW: sexually explicit content, profanitySelf Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources 💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley OgdenMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composer: Christy Panchalhttps://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: Sneaking Around Composer: Andy Scotthttps://melod.ie/track-details/1115-sneaking-around 💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault and violence with mentions of survival strategies and evidence preservation. Listener discretion is advised. Lisa breaks down “Active Compliance” — survival through instinct, awareness, and evidence preservation. Learn the ALERT system and real tactics for staying safe, empowered, and fiercely alive. The information shared is for general awareness only, not legal or medical advice, and not a guarantee of safety or outcome. Throughout this episode, we may refer to the perpetrator as he or him for clarity. We acknowledge that anyone of any gender can commit acts of violence. Sexual Assault ResourcesHave you or someone you love been sexually assaulted or abused? National Sexual Assault Hotline – 800-656-4673https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/Self Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley Ogden, MarthaMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composer: Christy Panchalhttps://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: Tranquility Within Composer: Justin Fitzgeraldhttps://melod.ie/track-details/2474-tranquility-within💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Content Warning: This episode contains a story referencing attempted sexual assault.In Distraction Techniques, actor Martha recounts an unsettling encounter that escalated quickly — and the split-second decisions that helped her stay safe. Lisa and Kellie break down her story, sharing strategies anyone can use to spot warning signs and protect themselves in vulnerable moments.  Sexual Assault ResourcesNational Sexual Assault HotlineIf you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline for confidential support at 800-656-HOPE that's 800-656-4673. You can also visit RAINN.org. https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/Self Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieGuest StorytellerMarthaSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley OgdenMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composer: Christy Panchalhttps://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: Subtle Pursuit Composer: Kevin Smithershttps://melod.ie/track-details/969-subtle-pursuitTitle: Tranquility Within Composer: Justin Fitzgeraldhttps://melod.ie/track-details/2474-tranquility-withinSound EffectsSoundSnap (pro subscription)💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

In this episode of Diamond Defense, Lisa and Kellie explore how destination — where you’re headed, how you move, and the energy you project — can be a powerful tool for self-defense. Guest Jessica shares two gripping stories from her time in Paris, when trusting her instincts and using her voice helped her escape being followed. Learn how awareness, confidence, and purpose can shift the balance of power and keep you safe, whether you’re traveling abroad or moving through everyday spaces.Self Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieGuest StorytellerJessicaSpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley OgdenMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal https://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: On The Dot; Composers: Nesci Daniel Joshua 50%, Ellery Michael Brandon 50%https://melod.ie/track-details/5479-on-the-dot PixabayTitle: Emotional Love – Romance in France; Artist: SonicanEmotional Love - Romance in France | Royalty-free Music - Pixabayhttps://pixabay.com/music/acoustic-group-emotional-love-romance-in-france-313445/Sound EffectsSoundSnap (pro subscription)💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Diamond Defense Podcast: ConfidenceConfidence isn’t just a feeling—it’s action. Join Lisa and Kellie in Episode 2 of the Diamond Defense Podcast as we continue the conversation about women's self-defense & ways to keep ourselves from being targeted for attack. Our guest, Kelley shares a Chicago street story and shows how trusting your instincts (and your little monster) can keep you safe. Self Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieGuest StorytellerKelleySpecial ThanksAnn Cobb, Kelley OgdenMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal https://melod.ie/track-details/3300-fighter Title: Time; Composers: Suokas Sergeyhttps://melod.ie/track-details/2040-time Sound EffectsSoundSnap (pro subscription)💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

In our debut episode, we dive straight into the power of awareness and storytelling with a compelling feature of Aniko’s journey. She shares how real-life experiences with danger shaped her instincts and approach to staying safe, proving that our greatest challenges often teach us the most important lessons.Co-hosts Lisa and Kellie also explore what makes self-defense so much more than just techniques — it’s about confidence, community, and trusting your gut. Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek at Diamond Defense’s new short film, “Three Things,” on female self-defense, along with actionable tips to stay ready and aware in your own life.Don’t miss this unforgettable story and the lessons it brings. Listen now!Self Defense Resourceshttps://diamonddefense.com/resources💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieGuest StorytellerAnikoSpecial ThanksAniko, Ann Cobb, Karen Kilgariff, Georgia Hardstark, Kelley Ogden MusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchal https://melod.ie/browse#download-track/3300Title: Restless Quarantine; Composers: Kop Jan P Pieterhttps://melod.ie/library#download-track/2858Sound EffectsSoundSnap (pro subscription)💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/

Real stories. Real strategies. Real strength.More than fighting back — the Diamond Defense Podcast is about moving through the world with awareness, confidence, and strength. Join co-producers, co-hosts, and friends Lisa, a self-defense instructor, and Kellie, a storyteller, as they share real-life experiences, practical strategies, and empowering conversations that help women stay safer without living in fear. Each episode features a guest storyteller sharing their experience related to their safety. 💎Learn more at https://diamonddefense.com/💎If you enjoyed the episode, please rate and review it — help everyone shine stronger!Show NotesCo-Host and Co-Producer: LisaCo-Host and Co-Producer: KellieSpecial ThanksKelley Ogden, Ann CobbMusicMusic courtesy of Melodie Music.Melodie Music Subscription: Pro Plan, LifetimeTitle: Fighter; Composers: Klotz Christina Elyse Panchalhttps://melod.ie/browse#download-track/3300 💎Discover more at https://diamonddefense.com/