Domestic violence is a pervasive and often hidden issue that affects millions. Recognizing the early signs of an abuser can be crucial for protecting yourself and breaking free from a dangerous situations. Many survivors of domestic violence report overlooking or rationalizing away subtle red flags in the early stages of their relationships. By understanding and identifying these early warning signs, you can be empowered to recognize potentially abusive behaviors and seek help before situations escalate.

In this episode, I share my personal story of domestic violence, exploring a series of pivotal moments that shed light on the complex dynamics of abusive relationships. From my initial move to Florida with my ex to the gradual loss of my personal freedom and the first time he physically abused me. My story serves as a reminder of how abusers can manipulate and control their partners. I highlight how my abuser isolated me, controlled our finances, and undermined my success and independence. By sharing these experiences, my goal is to empower other women to identify red flags in their own relationships and seek help before the situation escalates. Tune in to learn about my journey through years of abuse, my path to healing, and how I found love and joy on the other side of this traumatic experience.

Timestamps

[00:00] Life with my ex in Florida

[04:50] The false sense of security masked with humor, fun, and what I naively thought was love

[06:45] Justifying where I was going every time I had to leave the house

[07:55] Moving from Florida to Georgia

[09:46] Financial abuse and emotional belittling due to my promotions at work.

[11:48] The first incident of physical abuse and what I did next.

[15:58] Being forced to quit my job because of my friend at work

[17:16] The abuse from him continued, in big and small ways.

[18:14] Realizing I was pregnant

[18:50] Anger management classes and therapy sessions for healing

[20:17] Moving back to Florida because of my pregnancy. Further isolation as I’d built a little bit of a support system in Georgia and he couldn’t allow that.

[21:22] He wouldn’t cover my pregnancy health care bills and insurance

[21:43] How I ended up being a prisoner again in my house

[23:11] I had to prepare to take care of my daughter and myself

[26:06] Ways they pull you away from environments where you have resources

• “Don’t put everything that you have in the hands of another person.”
• “These types of people will start questioning your success because your success starts threatening their ego.”
• “I had no access to any of our money or anything, and he liked it that way.”

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