The Rising Beyond Podcast

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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 stageJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/B0G8RZX8LVJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/jenniferpeyton356426Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/0gxTtekZJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/parentingscriptsJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/risinJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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-controlJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/parentingscriptsJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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: Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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-controlJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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-controlJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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 Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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: Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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 scenarioJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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. Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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 painJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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] the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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/Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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] the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

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.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

Do the double standards that show up in a narcissistic relationship and “co-parenting” relationship drive you crazy?Double standards are a hallmark of narcissistic abuse and are pervasive even (maybe especially) after you have left the relationship.In this episode we explore why someone with narcissism requires these double standards to work in their world and how the larger system allows and supports them to continue.  We also discuss ways in which you can lessen their emotional impact, decide if and when to engage and point the double standards out, and how best to do this to present as a good “co-parent.”While the double standards will always be a part of any relationship your ex partner has, you can make shifts to not allow it to take so much of your emotional energy.Be sure to listen to Episode 83: Co-Parenting with a Narcissist: Strategies for Modifying the Parenting Plan - https://www.buzzsprout.com/1991648/episodes/14356912-ep-83-co-parenting-with-a-narcissist-strategies-for-modifying-the-parenting-planJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

In this week’s Friday Coaching Corner, I respond to a mom’s heartfelt question that so many survivors share:“How do I support my children’s relationship with their dad—because the court says I have to—while knowing he is emotionally and psychologically abusing them every week?”This episode dives deep into one of the hardest balancing acts for protective parents: offering emotional honesty and safety without crossing into parental alienation.You’ll hear strategies and validation around:How to build felt safety for your children when the other home is unsafe.Why it’s vital not to gaslight your kids—and what to say instead.How to reflect what you see (“Your body looks like it needs to move after visits”) instead of judging or rescuing.Using simple rituals and routines to help kids regulate after contact with the abusive parent.How to teach emotional intelligence and discernment so your kids can identify safe people and unsafe behaviors.Ways to contrast your safe home environment with the other parent’s behavior—without speaking negatively about them.The truth that children need one consistent, unconditional, loving caregiver to build resilience—and that person can be you.This episode is a compassionate guide for every survivor-parent navigating the impossible tension between protecting your children and being forced to “support” a relationship that hurts them.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

How do you communicate with someone who continues to abuse you post separation?I cannot stress how important it is to learn how to communicate with your “high conflict” co-parent in ways that will protect you and your mental health in order to better protect your children.In this episode I talk with Jill Kaufman about how she supports those going through a “high conflict” divorce and post separation abuse find peace in their lives while also having to communicate with their coparent about their children.  We discuss the pitfalls that many survivors fall into, how to pick your battles, and how to stop taking everything said personally to protect your peace.Jill Kaufman is a Therapist, Divorce Coach, Mediator & Co-parenting Expert. After going through her own difficult divorce, she made it her life’s mission to help others not have it so tough. Her book, online course and transformative group coaching program help parents navigate the overwhelming process of divorce both emotionally and strategically with less stress, more confidence and a greater sense of peace. Connect with Jill:Website: www.divorcecoachjill.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoachjill/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jill.kaufman.353, https://www.facebook.com/groups/separationanddivorcesupportcommunityIf you are struggling with communicating with your ex, Rising Beyond Power and Control offers many resources including our Canned Responses that can help when you just can’t find the words.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

Family court can feel like it’s designed to wear you down. The long waits, the unpredictability, the endless back-and-forth with your ex — it can seem impossible to get through without breaking.But what if you didn’t have to let court define you?In this episode, Sybil shares how survivors can walk through family court with steadiness and strength. Instead of waiting for one big “final win,” you’ll learn how to find momentum in small victories, focus your energy where it counts, and adopt key mindset shifts that protect your well-being along the way.You’ll hear about:Small wins that matter — how to recognize progress in the middle of a long battle.Control vs. no control — a practical way to separate what deserves your energy from what doesn’t.Mindset shifts that sustain you, including:Court is a chapter, not your whole story.Your strength is not defined by the outcome.Preparation is power.The courtroom doesn’t define your parenting.Endurance over perfection.Anchoring in values when the process feels chaotic.Court is difficult — but with these strategies, it doesn’t have to break you.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

In this week’s Friday Coaching Corner, I respond to a listener who’s six years post–custody loss and doing her best to stay connected with her teen daughter—while being accused of crossing boundaries and “embarrassing” her.This mom wonders: “Am I doing okay? Or am I being walked over by my child and my ex?”It’s a question many protective parents ask themselves when trying to balance compassion, boundaries, and the constant pressure to appear “perfect” under the court’s microscope.In this episode, I explore:What it means to show unconditional love without losing your footing.How to reframe communication to focus on love, connection, and curiosity instead of control.The difference between compassionate boundaries and compliance.How to handle teens who use “therapy language” to push back or deflect.Why you can (and should) stop caring what outsiders think.Hope for parents who’ve lost time with their kids—how consistent, grounded love can bring them back in the long run.This episode is for every parent who’s been told they’re “too soft,” when in reality, they’re showing incredible restraint and resilience in the face of impossible systems and emotionally complex parenting.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 Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

Walking into family court is intimidating enough — and then your ex smirks, rolls their eyes, or drops a lie designed to rattle you. On top of that, opposing counsel may throw you questions that feel like traps or come out of nowhere.In this episode, Sybil breaks down how to keep your composure in court when your ex tries to provoke you, and how to handle curveball questions during cross-examination.You’ll learn:Why abusers use provocation in court and how judges often notice your reaction more than the provocation itself.Simple emotional defense strategies — like the “poker face,” grounding tools, and focusing only on the judge.The most common types of curveball questions attorneys ask (from vague to rapid-fire) and how to respond without being trapped.Practical scripts for redirecting with calm and keeping the focus on your child’s needs.These strategies don’t make court easy — but they can help you feel steady, credible, and prepared in a system that often feels stacked against you.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

Family court is often the last place survivors expect to or actually find safety, yet for so many, it’s where their battle continues. What if we could do something to change that?I’m talking with Jill Montes and Dr. Ramona Probasco from the Healing While Living Free Foundation to talk about the systemic failures of family court, why survivors often lose their voice in the process, and what can actually be done to shift things, starting with training attorneys.Together, we dive into:Why family court isn’t designed for abuse cases and how survivors end up at a disadvantage from the start.How abusers present in court vs. how survivors show up in trauma—and why courts often misinterpret both.The dangerous myths that persist, like “mutual abuse” or “false reporting,” and how they harm protective parents.Their new resource for attorneys and judges: practical do’s and don’ts to represent survivors safely and effectively.The role of “super traits” like empathy and loyalty that make survivors vulnerable to abuse—and how to reclaim them as strengths.Why training attorneys now matters for the future of family court.We share with full honesty, lived experience, and hope for change. If you’re navigating family court or supporting someone who is, you’ll walk away with clarity, validation, and concrete ideas for next steps.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

In this week’s Friday Coaching Corner, I respond to a heartbreaking listener story that highlights just how overwhelming it can feel to keep fighting for your child when the family court system and even your own attorney seem to be standing in the way.This listener’s ex-partner is refusing to comply with the court order requiring their child to participate in family therapy, therapy that could be covered by Medicaid, while continuing to manipulate both the child and the process. The result is devastating: a protective parent with only a weekly phone call and a mountain of grief, legal obstacles, and financial strain.Questions Answered in this Episode:How to use the exact language in your court order to advocate for family therapy.The difference between family therapy and reunification therapy (and why it matters for insurance coverage).Practical steps for documenting refusals and setting up a motion to compel, rather than just contempt proceedings.Strategies for getting your unresponsive attorney to act, including how to organize your communications using the Rocks in a Jar method.Where to turn for ADA accommodation requests or grievances in Colorado.Speaking to the grief of being kept from your child—and why your early bond still matters.This is a tough but important conversation. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the whole burden of advocacy while the system lets you down, I hope you find both validation and practical direction here.Referred Links:Rocks in a Jar video - https://www.canva.com/design/DAGv_UPUPeA/aGbiC6yT5hNhbsoevU-cQQ/editProject Justice USA Survey - https://www.projectjusticeusa.com/Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

What happens when you bring a passionate male advocate for survivors of domestic violence into a space that’s usually led by women? That’s what we're doing in this episode!I talk with Michael, a rare but powerful male voice in this movement, to talk about the complexities of abuse, how children really experience it, and what it looks like for men to step into prevention and healing work.Together, we cover:An unexpected start: How a “mess around job” at a domestic violence shelter shifted Michael’s path and purpose.Kids always know: Why children absorb far more than we think when abuse is happening at home.The gender gap: What keeps men out of advocacy spaces—and what could change that.Breaking cycles: Michael’s stories from working with boys and men, and how change actually happens.Parenting through it: How survivors can support their children in building healthy relationships and identities.The role of women: What’s yours to carry, and what isn’t, when it comes to men’s healing.This conversation is honest, challenging, and full of hope. If you’ve ever wondered how to raise compassionate boys, how to include men in real culture change, or how to support your kids after abuse, this is one you won’t want to miss.Michael Brasher, PhD, PCIC is a men's coach, researcher, and author working at the intersection of public health, gender, and racial justice. He helps men and boys unlearn toxic conditioning to build safe, equitable relationships with women, and engages them as allies in ending gender-based violence. His work focuses on the socialization of masculinity as a public health issue, with a research emphasis on domestic violence and anti-Blackness.Connect with Michael:Is Your Partner a Robot? Take the free quiz: https://michael-odkf51tb.scoreapp.com/Free Healthy Masculinity Men’s Monthly Talking Circle: https://michael-uwrnhoyd.scoreapp.comSocial Media: @lifeunboundcoachingBook some time with Me: https://dot.cards/michaelbrasherJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

When it comes to domestic violence and coercive control, the systems we rely on to protect children are often looking at the wrong thing.Instead of assessing for patterns like, long-term, consistent dynamics of fear, control, and power imbalances, many custody decisions are still made based on isolated incidents. And that’s a huge problem.In this solo episode, I’m sharing why we need a major shift in how we assess safety, parenting, attachment, and the best interests of the child, and how a pattern-based approach can more accurately reflect the lived experience of survivors and their children.We’ll talk about:Why coercive control often doesn’t show up in isolated “incidents”How this outdated model fails kids in custody evaluationsWhy it can take months or even a year for a child to feel safe enough to reveal the full picture in therapyThe dangers of assuming we can determine a child’s best interest after two brief sessions with an evaluatorWhether you're a survivor navigating the family court system or a professional working in this space, this episode offers clarity and validation, and a call to do better by the families most impacted.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

Welcome to our very first Friday Coaching Corner! In this session, I answer questions from a listener navigating the challenges of living near her abusive ex, parenting through manipulation, and dealing with silent treatment in co-parenting apps.The listener shares that her ex still lives in an outbuilding on the marital property, creating constant stress and safety concerns. On top of that, her ex is weaponizing the children against her, and she’s experiencing co-parenting sabotage through both denial of parenting time and the silent treatment in their communication app.I answer these questions...How can I create a sense of safety in my home when my abusive ex lives so close by?How do I respond when my 13-year-old mimics my ex’s critical tone and behavior toward me, and how should I explain this shift to their therapist?What strategies can I use when my co-parent stops responding to messages and uses the silent treatment as a tactic?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] the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

After years of surviving post-separation abuse and high-conflict co-parenting, you may find yourself disconnected from your older teen or adult child. Maybe they’re distant. Maybe they believe things about you that aren’t true. Or maybe they just don’t seem to want a relationship anymore. It can be heartbreaking.Listen for ideas on how to begin rebuilding a stronger, more grounded connection with teenager or adult child, even when the path feels uncertain.We cover:The emotional and developmental landscape of older teens and young adultsHow loyalty binds, trauma, and autonomy affect the parent-child dynamicCommon emotional struggles parents face — like grief, guilt, and helplessnessSmall but powerful ways to reopen communication and rebuild trustThe importance of boundaries — for you and for themHow to let go of control while still showing up with love and steadinessWhat to do if your child isn’t ready (yet) to reconnectI hope this episode leaves you feeling more grounded in your role as a parent, even if the relationship looks different than you hoped, and more confident in taking steps toward authentic, lasting connection.Want to share your experience or ask a question for a future episode? You can do that anonymously via https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/podcasts.html or email me at [email protected] the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

One of the most horrific and insidious consequences of coercive control and dv is the systematic way in which an abuser strips away their victim’s sense of self and identity. One of the most impactful parts of the healing process is rebuilding that connection with the self and redefining your roles and identities. On this episode, I invited my friend and colleague, Erin Siegel to share how the framework of Human Design has been pivotal as she heals from her abuse and continued post separation abuse and how it could be a tool for your healing as well.Erin Siegel, Master Aesthetician, Certified High Conflict Divorce and Parenting Coach, and Human Design guide and Creatrix of Fortitude & Flourish, shares how this powerful system has supported her own transformation and how it can support yours, especially while navigating healing trauma and navigating the family courts.Books Mentioned:• A Modern Guide to Human Design by Rachel Lieberman• The Definitive Book of Human Design: The Science of Differentiation by Ra Uru Hu & Lynda BunnellHuman Design App:• HDesign App – Why we love it: You can add your children’s charts and gain insights on how to parent and relate more consciously.Explore your unique blueprint and connect with community through one of our upcoming events:→ Human Design Social Gathering→ Divorce Unlocked Community GatheringsGIVEAWAY!Win a free pair of tickets to the Human Design Social GatheringText your name, phone number, email, and a brief note about how you’ve risen beyond power and control to 720-933-8848. Deadline: 1 week after this episode airs.The winner will be announced on IG and contacted directly!Book your complimentary coaching call with Erin here:https://calendly.com/fortitudeandflourish/holistic-coaching-complimentary-discovery-callJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

For many survivors, the deepest wound from coercive control is the loss of your connection to who you truly are. And for many women, especially protective mothers, your role as a mom becomes so entwined with your identity that life changes. Whether it's from abuse, family court challenges, or shifting seasons of parenting. It can all feel cataclysmic.I’m joined by my friend and colleague, Stephanie Konter- O’Hara, LPC, to have an honest conversation about rebuilding identity after abuse. We explore how societal pressures, “supermom” expectations, and systemic biases in parenting roles impact women’s sense of worth. We also share tips for reconnecting with your authentic self, redefining your roles, and parenting in alignment with your values, even under the watchful eye of family court or in the face of counter-parenting.We cover:Why abuse and coercive control so effectively strip away identity and autonomyThe difference between “role” and “identity” in parenting for mothers and fathersHow societal biases and family court systems reinforce perfectionism for momsThe dangers of tying your worth to “performing” motherhood perfectlyHow to reframe parenting decisions through values rather than outside pressureWhy connection, not perfection, creates lasting impact on your kidsNavigating limited or supervised parenting time while keeping connection aliveThe role of community and shared stories in healing from relational traumaWhether you’re still in the storm of family court or finally in a season where healing feels possible, this episode offers hope, practical tools, and reminders that you are already enough just as you are.Connect with Stephanie:Instagram: @redefining_us_podWebsite: www.wellmindedcounseling.com/redefining_us_podJoin the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

You worked SO hard to find a therapist for your child and getting consent from your ex was no easy feat.  And now your child isn’t talking.If your child isn’t talking in therapy — or worse, tells you it’s “boring” or “pointless” — you’re not alone. Many parents feel discouraged or even panicked when therapy doesn’t look the way they expected. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the common reasons children (especially those navigating trauma or high-conflict family dynamics) may shut down in therapy — and what you can do to support the process without getting in the way.We’ll talk about:Why silence in therapy isn’t necessarily a bad signWhat NOT to do when your child seems disengagedSimple ways to support trust-building between your child and their therapistWhen (and how) to check in with the therapistWhy patience and presence are your superpowers as a parentYou’ll leave with practical ideas and a deeper understanding of how healing actually starts for kids — even when they’re not saying much.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

It’s that time of the year when kids go back to school. This is stressful for most families, but if you are coparenting with a narcissist the stress can increase exponentially.  In this episode we are talking about how the start of the school year opens up opportunities for your ex to double down on their smear campaign, their continued expectations of you to be their secretary even though you are no longer together, and other ways they cause chaos at the school.  But, there are things that you can do to minimize their attacks and maintain your sanity during a stressful time of year. Listen for some tips. Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

If you’ve ever had to interact with Child Protective Services (CPS), you know the process can feel confusing, overwhelming, and, let’s be honest, downright terrifying. Whether you’ve made a report, had one made against you, or are just trying to protect your child in the midst of a high-conflict situation, understanding the system is key.In this episode, I’m speaking with Christine Garcia, LPC, a seasoned therapist and fierce advocate for families, to demystify what actually happens when CPS gets involved. Together, we discuss how the system works (and how it doesn’t), what survivors of domestic violence need to know, and how to best communicate and document when CPS is part of your reality.We don’t shy away from the hard stuff, like how the system can retraumatize survivors or misunderstand coercive control, but we also offer practical tips for how to protect yourself and your child through the process.Connect with Christine:https://cwccolorado.com/Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...

In this episode, I go on a bit of a rant—and for good reason.When people in positions of power make sweeping decisions without input from the people most affected, the results are often not just ineffective… they’re harmful.I share a recent example from my own therapy practice, where state-level Medicaid changes made by HCPF (Colorado’s Department of Health Care Policy & Financing) have had huge ripple effects—harming my team’s ability to provide care and hurting the very clients those changes were supposed to help.And unfortunately, this isn’t a one-off issue. It’s a pattern we see all the time in the family court system.Survivors of domestic violence are rarely invited to the table when reforms are discussed or policies are implemented. Professionals make assumptions, apply blanket solutions, and often ignore the lived experiences of the people navigating these systems every single day.In this episode, I explore:Why top-down decisions without feedback loops cause damageHow survivors are continuously silenced and sidelined in court processesThe emotional toll of fighting systems that claim to help—but don’t listenWhy true change must include the voices of those impactedWhether you’ve felt powerless in court, frustrated by the mental health system, or just plain angry at the disconnect between what’s needed and what’s delivered—this one’s for you.Tune in and share your own story. We need more survivor voices in these conversations.Join the Rising Beyond Community today. Learn more at https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/membership.htmlPlease 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/Where to find more from Rising Beyond:Rising Beyond FacebookRising Beyond LinkedInRising Beyond Pinterest If you're interested in guesting on the show please fill out this form - https://forms.gle/CSvLWWyZxmJ8GGQu7Enjoy some of our freebies!Choosing Your Battles FreebieCanned Responses FreebieMic Drop Moments Freebie...