Why She Stayed

This episode originally aired on May 13, 2025.Brand new episode will be released on Tuesday, March 24th.Lundy Bancroft is the author of the book "Why Does He Do That? Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men" as well as many other books and has worked extensively in batterer intervention programs. He has over 30 years of experience working with abusive men and their families and is a leading voice in the field of domestic abuse and advocacy.For Lundy's books, recourses, and more visit his website at: https://lundybancroft.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lindsey shares the story of how her relationship slowly turned into something she didn’t recognize as abuse.What began as the gradual normalization of cheating became a pattern of psychological grooming. Over time, he reframed betrayal as “normal,” rewrote reality, and convinced her she was the one causing harm.He even faked medical emergencies- claiming she was causing him physical suffering from "stress" to keep her catering to him and feeling responsible for his well-being. Every conflict somehow became her fault. Every consequence felt like she was “ruining his life.”When the abuse escalated and arrest became a possibility, people around her warned, “What if you ruin his life?” — reinforcing the guilt he had already carefully planted.Lyndsey's IG: @lyndseyh6723Her Podcast IG: @living.inthe.aftermathWhere she serves on the board: @therefugeutah Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Kelly shares her experience of being in a relationship where reality was constantly twisted. Her abuser was skilled at blame-shifting, making her feel like she was the problem for asking reasonable questions, having needs, or expecting basic respect.What made it even more confusing was how differently he showed up to the rest of the world. Friends, family, and acquaintances saw someone charming, easygoing, and well-liked. That contrast left Kelly feeling isolated, disoriented, and unsure of her own perception.This conversation is especially for anyone who is standing on the edge of a major commitment (like a wedding) and your gut is telling you something isn’t right, this episode may help you feel less alone, less dramatic, and more grounded in your truth. Sometimes the hardest thing isn’t leaving—it’s trusting yourself enough to believe what you already know.Guest Information: Kelly's Instagram- @the.kellymichelleGrace's Instagram: @gracee__elizabeth @whyshestayedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Kelly shares her story of entering a relationship with a mild-mannered Arab Muslim doctor at a vulnerable point in her life, a time when she felt ungrounded and stuck in patterns of promiscuity. He positioned himself as a stabilizing force, framing the relationship as a way to “save” her from that path and introduce her to a more meaningful life.As the relationship deepened, elements of Islamic practice and cultural expectations were gradually introduced (after she was emotionally invested). This created confusion: was the growing control, restriction, and mistreatment rooted in cultural/ religious norms, or was it a result of his narcissistic and coercive personality?That uncertainty became one of the most powerful tools of manipulation.The episode closes with a powerful turning point: motherhood and a clear way out. Kelly shares how becoming a mother and a last-minute opened door clarified what she could no longer tolerate and ultimately gave her the strength to walk away- not just for herself, but for her child.Guest details not included in show notes. If you would like to get in touch with our guest, please DM me on Instagram @gracee__elizabethh Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Daniella shares her experience of being in a relationship marked by extreme intensity followed by sudden discard and abandonment. She opens up about how emotional abuse eroded her sense of self, fueled comparison and insecurity, and left her feeling like a shell of who she once was.Daniella also unpacks how her abuser used people outside the relationship to validate his false narrative- ultimately reversing victim and offender by obtaining a TRO to portray himself as the victim. This conversation sheds light on how manipulation, image-management, and psychological abuse operate beneath the surface.Daniella's Instagram: @daniellaxmcGrace's Instagram: @gracee__elizabethh Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Kia Lee, author and survivor, as she shares her journey through domestic abuse and cancer—and what it means to keep creating hope while still living in the unknown.Kia opens up about the loneliness of clarity: that isolating moment when you see the truth of your situation before anyone else does. We talk about how life doesn’t pause for your pain- how the world keeps moving even when your own world feels like it has come to a complete stop.Together, we explore the power of discernment—learning to trust your inner knowing when circumstances, people, or even professionals cause you to doubt yourself.Kia speaks candidly about the necessity of facing pain head-on rather than avoiding it, and how doing so became a turning point in her healing.In this episode, we discuss:Living with clarity that others may not understandThe grief of watching the world move on while you’re standing stillDeveloping discernment and trusting your inner voiceWhy facing pain directly is essential to healingDomestic abuse, survival, and reclaiming your sense of selfMedical gaslighting and the importance of advocating for yourselfCreating hope while still in the unknownSponsor Links: Aimee Says: an AI Support That Understands Abuse - and Helps You Prove It.https://www.aimeesays.com/en/homeGet a free month's subscription with the code: WhySheStayedGuest Links: IG Handle @LighthouseSurvivorIG Handle 2: @namastenyc8https://kia-lee.com/Kia's part 1 episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2JwLe9pb9v3iU9gGGIvpjM?si=nraSVP5sQ5WicSq8sejilw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply honest episode, I sit down with abuse survivor and author Stephanie Strickland, whose new book Finding Peace Within shares her journey of survival, self-discovery, and healing.Stephanie opens up about how her abuser convinced her that she was the cause of the abuse—leading her to believe that if she could just be more perfect, more careful, or do everything “right,” the conflict would stop. She describes the exhausting cycle of walking on eggshells, constantly trying to manage another person’s emotions in order to stay safe.We talk about the painful pattern so many survivors recognize: periods that felt like a fairytale—full of hope, love, and promises—followed by moments when the darkness slowly crept back in. Not all at once, but subtly enough to make her question her own reality and hold onto hope that things would change again.One of the most profound parts of our conversation centers on fear of the unknown. Stephanie shares how there was a time when the unknown felt so terrifying that she believed she would rather die than leave. Staying in the abuse felt familiar—even if it was devastating—while stepping into uncertainty felt unbearable.Stephanie's Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamsdstrickland?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Website: https://www.stephaniedstrickland.com/Book: https://www.stephaniedstrickland.com/my-books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this survivor story, Tiffany opens up about the hidden layers of abuse she endured in her marriage- abuse she didn’t initially recognize. Growing up with a father who was a “standard yeller,” Tiffany assumed that abuse had to look loud and obvious. But her husband’s tactics were quieter, calculated, and far more confusing. Through gaslighting, and emotionally charged setups that left her yelling, he was able to make Tiffany feel unbalanced and “crazy,” all while maintaining a calm exterior.Tiffany shares how focusing on her husband’s drinking became a smokescreen that kept her from seeing the deeper issue: his abusive behavior and personality. We discuss how the messaging in Al-Anon (encouraging partners to examine their “control issues” and “character defects”) often reinforces an abuser’s narrative and shift responsibility onto the survivor.We also dive into how church counsel commonly misses the mark when addressing abuse. Tiffany explains how recommendations like “temporary separation” can actually aid the abusive partner by giving them a checklist to complete in order to regain access to the marriage, while the victim is framed as the one dismantling the family.This episode sheds light on the subtle, often invisible dynamics of emotional and psychological abuse- and the systems that unintentionally enable it. Tiffany’s story is a testament to the strength it takes to recognize abuse, break through confusion, and reclaim one’s reality.Guest details are private for now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked reasons people remain stuck in abusive cycles: the inability to name what they’re experiencing. I explore how the lack of clear language- not just individually, but across society- keeps people confused, doubting themselves, and trapped far longer than they should be.We unpack the cultural habit of mislabeling harmful behavior, and how this reluctance to “call it what it is” creates conditions where abuse can thrive in plain sight. I break down why accurate terminology isn’t just semantics- but a lifeline.Together, we reframe abuse not as a spectrum where people try to measure what “counts,” but as an umbrella of behaviors rooted in the same belief system of entitlement, control, and disregard. By understanding abuse as a unified framework rather than a sliding scale, we remove the ambiguity that keeps so many people questioning their reality.Articles and writings mentioned: Maine Case: https://cbn.com/news/us/judge-orders-maine-mom-not-take-her-daughter-church-or-read-her-bibleAlyssa Wiest Article: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/michael-dutkiewicz-guilty-of-first-degree-murder-death-girlfirend/4287021/Ohio Article: https://nypost.com/2025/11/21/us-news/deranged-husband-kills-baby-wifes-7-year-old-and-the-boys-father-before-turning-gun-on-himself/Black Blouse Coercive Control: https://x.com/shadows_control/status/1805945219344486824?lang=en Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Hannah to explore abuse that is intentionally designed to be unrecognizable. Hannah shares how her abuser strategically created gray areas and emotional ambiguity, making it almost impossible for her to pinpoint what was happening.She also talks about the “threshold” she carried in her mind- her preconceived idea of what “real abuse” was supposed to look like- and how her abuser deliberately stayed just below that line. This left her constantly second-guessing herself, blaming herself, and feeling unable to trust her own perception.Together, we unpack why this type of abuse is so confusing, how abusers use subtlety as a tactic, and the internal conflict survivors experience when their reality doesn’t match the stereotypes of abuse they’ve been taught.Guest information private for now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, a nationally recognized clinical psychologist who specializes in narcissistic abuse and relationship trauma. Together, we dive deep into one of the most painful and confusing stages of recovery- learning to detach from the abuser’s narrative.We explore questions so many survivors wrestle with: Will the abuser change for the next person? Why does it feel like they’re thriving while you’re left in pieces? And most importantly, how can you begin to reclaim your truth after so much manipulation and emotional chaos?Dr. Jaime Zuckerman's links: LinkTree for all links: https://linktr.ee/drzpsychologist?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAad7NNTCigjpDAiBeChMvfyAgR-y93OH9X-jCXHbD55VYt9YJaT1_SxIKA5wwQ_aem_YPJ2kBTJJcEnBmKCKOSYkwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/Dr. Z's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1aeBenKtsnHZcAMy4JekqP Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Catherine opens up about the years she spent trapped in an abusive marriage marked by emotional abuse, infidelity, and alcohol use by her former spouse. What began as a hopeful relationship spiraled into something she never imagined when she discovered her husband’s shocking attempts to secretly poison her with abortion pills in an effort to end her pregnancy.With courage and honesty, Catherine shares how she uncovered the truth, the steps she took to protect herself, and the journey toward rebuilding her life after trauma.Together, we talk about the complexities of abuse, the warning signs that are often overlooked, and the strength it takes to break free.Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic abuse, substance abuse, and physical harm through abortion pills.For more about Catherine's story, please visit her social media pages and links related to her story: Socials: @catherinepresslyherring@sayhmfoundationArticles:https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/texas-attorney-poisoned-pregnant-wife-abortion-medication-sentenced-18-rcna138065https://www.shreveporttimes.com/story/news/2024/03/06/shreveport-senator-files-bill-after-sisters-husband-tried-to-secretly-abort-baby-with-abortion-pill/72863621007/https://sbaprolife.org/newsroom/press-releases/the-catherine-and-josephine-herring-act-heads-to-gov-landrys-desk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Wendy as she bravely shares her story of surviving abuse and how it manipulates your sense of duty, love, and identity.Wendy opens up about how her abuser made her feel responsible for his well-being, and how that emotional weight kept her trapped in a cycle of guilt and silence. We explore why so many survivors feel sorry for the very people hurting them, and how that misplaced empathy is a product of manipulation by the perpetrator.We also dive into the more subtle and often overlooked signs of financial control, the ways abusers rationalize physical violence, and how Wendy’s experience as a Latina woman added a layer of cultural confusion around expectations, and what it means to “stand by your man.”This conversation is a testament to resilience, clarity, and the power of naming what we’ve survived.Wendy's Instagram: @wendyc0rtes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Alissa to talk through the painful reality of surviving not one, but two abusive relationships, and the patterns that emerged between them.We dive into the emotional and financial toll of being made to feel responsible for the very people who were hurting us. Alissa shares how she was expected to take care of her abusers- emotionally, financially, and even physically, all while her own needs were ignored or weaponized against her.We talk about:The quiet, creeping signs of financial abuseHow abusers make us feel like the caretaker or the problem-solverThe excuses they give for physical abuse and how we learn to rationalize themEarly signs of stalking and how they’re often misread as “love” or obsessionThe red flags that were different in each relationship- and the ones that felt eerily familiarIf you’ve ever asked yourself “How did I end up here again?”, this episode is for you. Content warning: This episode discusses abuse, stalking, and physical violence. Please listen with care.Alissa's Instagram Pages: @makeituncomfortable@absolute_gray_mediaOther creator (Kimya) mentioned in the episode:@kimyamotley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I didn't think it could happen to me."In this deeply personal and courageous episode, Beverly Hallberg — founder and president of District Media Group — shares her powerful story of surviving abuse. What began with subtle glimpses of control eventually unraveled into something much deeper, finally exposed by the unimaginable loss of her baby.As we acknowledge Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, Beverly’s story is a vital reminder that abuse often wears a mask - and that mask can be both convincing and devastating. Through her long-form essay and now this conversation, she sheds light on how abuse can be insidious, and how leaving is never easy — but healing is possible.This episode is for anyone who has ever questioned their reality, felt isolated in their grief, or needed to know they are not alone.Beverly's Substack post: "How Losing Our Child Exposed the Depth of My Husband’s Abuse and Gave Me the Strength to Leave"https://open.substack.com/pub/beverlyhallberg/p/how-losing-our-child-exposed-the?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=webBeverly's social media & sites:districtmediagroup.comX: @BeverlyHallbergInstagram: beverlyhallbergFacebook: BeverlyHallberg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a solo full Q&A episode where I answer the following questions: 1.) How long did it take for you to no longer feel the need for him to see your worth? 2.) How to not care that you're painted as the villain by abuser?3.) How do you get over the discard, and how happy they seem to be doing it to you?4.) How to stop spiraling when they seem to be giving the next partner everything you wanted.5.) How can one break out of cognitive dissonance when in the thick of it?6.) When the abuser claims to have PTSD, is that a reason/ excuse for abuse?7.) Sleep abuse/ abuser claiming to have "violent dreams"8.) Did u/anyone u speak with feel like their abuser was gay and that's why they hated women?9.) Is it real love when he goes to the extreme of doing crazy stuff to show undying love?10.) How to support a friend who says they know it's abuse but they're not scared of him?11.) How to deal with people who just don't get it12.) Your opinion on a relationship/marriage between a believer and an atheistArticles & other creator credits: Abusive Men Describe The Benefits of Violence: https://voicemalemagazine.org/abusive-men-describe-the-benefits-of-violence/Creator's post mentioned: @healingbythenumbers on InstagramGrace's Instagram: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexis Ruhlen and I discuss life post- abuse as a part 2 episode. We cover topics such as: emotions that come with reporting our abusers to law enforcement, dealing with the opinions of others, survivor imposter syndrome, how long it took us to make progress, and breaking the bond for the final time.Lex's original podcast episode of her FULL story is episode #18. If you would like to follow Alexis or I, please see our socials below:Lex's IG: @lexruhlenGrace's IG: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Lynn and I speak about topics such as sadistic behaviors, sexual abuse/ boundary pushing, and how abusers coerce you by giving the illusion of choice. To work with Lynn or send her a message, please see the links below: Lynn's Website: https://www.echoismrecovery.com/Lynn's Instagram: theechochamber2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Monica Smith shares pieces of her abuse story and detailed examples of how an abuser grooms us to no longer trust our own inner dialogue and perceptions. We talk about how they slowly make themselves the only source of truth we feel we can rely on and why it's so hard to believe ourselves. Monica's Instagram: @monicamooresmithMonica's Tiktok: @monicamooresmith5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taylor shares her abuse story and how her reality became completely distorted and shaken over time. We discuss how she was made to feel like the offender and how she was often recorded, shamed, and blamed as a form of control. We discuss topics of emotional, financial, & sexual abuse throughout the episode. Guest details will be private for now until further notice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I am joined by podcast host and abuse recovery coach Laura Richards. Laura is the host of That's Where I'm At Podcast and we dive deep into both the addictive nature of the cycle of abuse and her personal story. We speak about the trauma bond, gaslighting, and abusers who frequently talk to other women as a form of punishment. If you would like to get in touch with Laura, visit her social media pages:Instagram: @thatswhereimatpodcastTikTok: @thatswhereimatpodcastPodcast: That's Where I'm At Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicolette shares about the emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse she faced in her marriage and how minimizing, denying, and blaming made it so hard to see through the fog. We discuss how abusers will often seem very forthcoming and honest about their "past" struggles and use their honesty as a distraction to their current behavior. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erin shares her abuse story of enduring physical, emotional, verbal & financial abuse. She describes how her abuser blamed the mistreatment on "stressors" and kept her in a cycle of hoping it was always just about to get better. Erin's Instagram: @love_doesnt_destroy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sarah shares her story of the many years of abuse she endured throughout her marriage and how spiritual and emotional abuse played a big role in keeping her trapped. She also shares how she navigated with 3 children including one special needs child and how she clung to her faith even when it was used against her as manipulation. Lastly, we discuss when an abuser says they didn't "mean" to hurt us and why it is still intentional abuse. If you would like to connect with Sarah she has provided her Instagram below:@hopperbunch4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christa shares her story of experiencing high forms of covert abuse and how that led to a complete mental breakdown and loss of self. We dive into many examples of manipulation and how she eventually saw through the fog, overcame the confusion, and walked away for good. If you would like to get in touch with Christa, please see her Instagram below:@christarealba Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Jess shares her story about how abusers can weaponize mental health claims as an excuse to accuse you and gain control in very covert ways. We also discuss how perpetrators who are very charismatic triangulate people around them to feed into the manipulation and lies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I am joined by trauma therapist and abuse recovery coach- Quinn Padilla. We discuss topics such as what is a "one-off" mistake vs. a pattern, intent vs. action, and how an abuser will attempt to control the narrative. Get in touch with Quinn: Instagram: @itsquinnpadillaWebsite: https://www.itsquinnpadilla.com/Grace's socials: Instagram: @gracestuart26 @whyshestayedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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On this episode, I am joined by life coach Bethany Comerford as we discuss red flags in manipulation, why survivors often stay for so long, ways to practically help a loved one, and how grief plays a role even when this person has abused you.This week we experienced several technical difficulties, but episodes will return to the normal day and pattern over the course of the weeks ahead. To get in touch with Bethany here are her links:Website: https://www.positiveconnectionscoaching.com/Instagram: @bethanylifecoach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I am joined by Lindsay Abernathy host of Bitch Is A Bad Word podcast as she shares her personal story of surviving domestic abuse. We discuss topics of love bombing, future faking, how control escalates over time financially, emotionally, physically, and much more. Please see links below to connect with Lindsay or to check out her podcast: Instagram: @bitchisabadwordpodTiktok: @bitchisabadwordApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bitch-is-a-bad-word-a-domestic-abuse-survivors-guide/id1780948251YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BitchIsABadWord Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am honored to have Lundy Bancroft on the show with me to talk about some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding domestic abuse and the mind of the abuser. Lundy Bancroft is the author of the book "Why Does He Do That? Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men" as well as many other books and has worked extensively in batterer intervention programs. He has over 30 years of experience working with abusive men and their families and is a leading voice in the field of domestic abuse and advocacy. For Lundy's books, recourses, and more visit his website at: https://lundybancroft.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, guest Ashley Maland and I discuss topics such as red flags, why you feel like you cannot leave, abuser's who frequently discard, healing your strong attachments to them, how to trust yourself again, and dating struggles post-abuse. Ashley's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/theashleytaylorcoAshley's Podcast: https://thisiswhereweheal.com/Grace's Instagram: @gracestuart26Lundy Bancroft Daily Wisdom Book referenced in today's show: https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Wisdom-Does-That-Encouragement/dp/0425265102 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I am re-sharing my story to capture within one episode to discuss topics and themes that may help you recall things from your own experience or make new connections. Thank you to this incredible community and I look forward to this next year to come with all of you!My Instagram and Resources: Instagram: @gracestuart26https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.domesticshelters.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Morgan shares her story of the constant mix of hot and cold behaviors of her abuser and how she did not know it was abuse for so long. We talk about the infidelity that took place and how victims are gaslit into not trusting the information that is right in front of them. We also speak about how Morgan found the strength to leave while 8 weeks pregnant with their third child and the challenges she faced post- separation.Morgan's Coaching Page: @consideritjoylifecoachMorgan's Website: https://www.consideritjoylifecoach.com/Grace's Instagram: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I am joined by Courtney Gilmartin who is a legal strategist and protective mom advocating for change in New Jersey & the family court system. We have a general discussion about entering the court system as a mother and provide some practical tips & resources to keep in your toolbox of information.For further information & support you can check out these links:NJ Protective Moms - Resource page has A TON of free resourceshttps://www.njprotectivemoms.org/resourcesHolding Hope Foundation - offers scholarships to protective moms https://holdinghopefoundation.com/Courtney's Booking Page https://calendly.com/courtneygilmartinMonarch Consulting Grouphttps://www.monarchconsultinggrp.com/Courtney's Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/courtney.gilmartin/Grace's Instagram: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Mandy shares her survivor story about how she met her abuser at a young age and was quickly swept into a relationship where possessiveness, monitoring, and the pressure to be "perfect" were constant. We will discuss what made this cycle so confusing and the challenges she faced while leaving including having to record conversations just to keep track of her own memory.Mandy's TikTok: @m__sealeNo Instagram ProvidedGrace's Instagram: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Rose shares her survivor story of navigating an abusive relationship with emotional abuse, financial abuse, sexual coercion, escalating physical crossing of boundaries, and leaving with children. She shares how her abuser would use shared- dreams they had of the future to keep her in the cycle including faking change in an attempt to get her to return to the relationship. If you want to connect with today's guest you can get in touch through her Instagram page: @rooted.and.bloomingGuest's Instagram: @rooted.and.bloomingMy Instagram: @Gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode I am joined by coercive control expert Dr. Emma Katz to break down some of your most commonly asked questions. Dr. Katz is a UK- based domestic violence & coercive control researcher and a Substack Bestseller. During this episode, we discuss topics such as why abusers tend to use emotional abuse & coercive behaviors as their main form of control, examples of why they are doing it on purpose, and how they attack the mother-child relationship.Dr. Katz Links & Resources: 10 Reasons Why a Coercively Controlling Man is an Unfit Father: https://dremmakatz.substack.com/p/10-reasons-why-a-coercively-controlling"She's Not Innocent Either." Actually, Yes She Is Innocent: https://dremmakatz.substack.com/p/shes-not-innocent-either-actuallyBrowse all Dr Emma Katz's articles on Substack and find what you want to read: https://dremmakatz.substack.com/Book: https://www.amazon.com/Coercive-Control-Childrens-Mothers-Lives/dp/B0CM4L7HLH/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmakatz_phd/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@emmakatz_phdLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dremmakatz/Website: https://dremmakatz.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I am joined by Criminal Behavior Analyst, Laura Richards. Laura is an expert on domestic abuse, coercive control, stalking, sexual violence homicide and risk assessment. She trained at New Scotland Yard and the FBI Behavioral Analysis Units and is an advocate for victims and an author, producer and podcaster. Together, we sit down and discuss the importance of trusting your gut instincts, the reality of coercive control, the Gabby Petitio case, and much more. You can find all of Laura's links below for her podcast, recourses, trainings, and social media pages. Laura Richards Podcasts, Squad and YouTube can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@crimeanalysthttps://www.crime-analyst.comwww.patreon.com/CrimeAnalysthttps://wondery.com/shows/real-crime-profile/ For more information and resources, the following sites can be accessed: www.thelaurarichards.comhttps://www.dashriskchecklist.com/ Socials:Crime Analyst Squad: www.patreon.com/CrimeAnalystFacebook Crime Analyst PodcastInsta: @laurarichards999 and @crimeanalystThreads @crimeanalystTiktok: @crimeanalystpodX: @laurarichards99 and @thecrimeanalystGrace's Social Media:Instagram: @Gracestuart26Tiktok: @gracestuart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, I am joined by licensed therapist and author Leah Aguirre where we have an open conversation about "hidden" forms of abuse such as frequent criticism, belittling, and making you feel like nothing is ever good enough. We also discuss questions like "why does my abuser's ex say he wasn't abusive" and "how to not get confused when he starts acting nice again". Lastly, we talk about our takeaways from the Gabby Petito case and several other topics.Leah's Website, Links, & Socials: Book for pre-order: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/is-this-really-love-leah-aguirre-lcsw/1146033741Leah's group practice website: https://www.covecounselinggroup.com/Leah's Instagram: @leahaguirrelcswGrace's Instagram: @gracestuart26, @whyshestayedpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Naomi shares about the cognitive dissonance she experienced when she was working as a victim crime advocate not realizing that she herself was experiencing coercive control, abuse within her own marriage. We talk about her journey to gain clarity, how she left with children, and her abuser's famous words: "But I never hit you".Naomi's Instagram: @nar4124My Instagram: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this Episode, Liadan shares her abuse story and how confusion played a huge role in struggling to break free. We talk about continuous discarding as a form of abuse, triangulation, and how efficiently the abuser will turn the blame back onto you. This episode contains topics of emotional, verbal, & physical abuse. Liadan's Instagram: @liadanmairegunterLiadan's Website: https://www.therewiringlens.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicole shares her abuse story of a 10+ year relationship/ marriage that included emotional, mental, financial, and escalating physical abuse. We discuss how the constant ups and downs felt like "whiplash" and how she ultimately left while her daughter was only 5 months old. Guest information will be kept private for now. You can follow me on Instagram @gracestuart26 and Tiktok @gracestuart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode I am joined by coercive control expert Dr. Christine Cocchiola. We discuss examples of how abuse can feel both hidden & obvious, how the perpetrator frames you as the "bad" one, & the dynamic when children are involved. Dr. Cocchiola's website, books, & links:FRAMED Book: https://narcfreepress.com/Website: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Instagram: @dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sasha shares her story of how she found herself in an intense cycle of abuse with a man who claimed to be "trauma informed" and emotionally mature, but was actually abusing and causing massive confusion behind closed doors. We talk about feeling like they are your best friend and worst nightmare at the same time, how the stress of abuse affects your physical health, and why couples counseling can make matters worse.Sasha's Website & Social Media:www.OurSacredSpaceRiverside.comBusiness Instagram: @OurSacredSpaceRiversidePersonal Instagram: @Lunallenawellness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, my guest Cory shares her abuse story about how she survived a cycle of fast love bombing, being hurt by the same person who "rescues you", how your body will start to reject them, and how she found the strength to leave with a young child.Follow Cory's Instagram: @coryannmichel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During this episode, I will be answering your most commonly asked questions about abuse and healing. We discuss questions such as:Can abuse be unintentional? Do I owe my abuser one last conversation?Best way to deal with the silent treatmentHow to stop comparing yourself to the next person they are withAnd more. See more Q&As covered through my Instagram: @gracestuart26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Megan shares her abuse story of how isolation & accusations were slowly introduced, how abusers will put you in lose-lose situations, how it feels like we always need more "proof" to leave them, and how she eventually left for good.Next episode will air on Tuesday, January 7th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode I am joined by forensic psychologist Dr. Dana Anderson where we discuss the dangers of non-fatal strangulation, what it is, what "counts", why it matters, and answering your most commonly asked questions. Dr. Anderson's website and social links: Instagram: dr.dana_andersonTiktok: @killerpsychologistWebsite: https://psychologydr.com/doctor-of-clinical-forensic-psychology/Further resources and videos: https://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/identifying-abuse/being-choked-during-sex-is-rising-in-popularity-among-young-peoplehttps://www.familyjusticecenter.org/resources/survivors-perspective-the-impact-of-strangulation-during-sex-sexual-choking/https://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/domestic-violence-op-ed-column/after-four-strangulations-i-googled-domestic-abusehttps://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/identifying-abuse/strangulation-is-the-highest-predictor-of-murderhttps://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/non-fatal-strangulation-is-what-domestic-violence-advocates-fear-the-most-right-now/https://www.dangerassessment.org/DA.aspx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode I am joined by my guest Amanda where we discuss topics of emotional abuse, coercive control, sexual coercion and more. We also discuss how abusers use things like withdrawing or demanding intimacy as a way to control you and how porn use and spiritual manipulation can play a role in the cycle of abuse. See my Instagram @gracestuart26 for more on guest information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.