Advertise on podcast: Bitch Is A Bad Word: A Domestic Violence Podcast on Healing and Empowerment

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on September 11, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In Part 2 of Lynn’s story, we explore a chilling truth many survivors face: the abuse doesn’t stop when the relationship ends. It just moves to the courtroom. Lynn’s ex didn’t just gaslight and control her at home—he took that manipulation into family court, painting himself as the victim, filing false reports, and using the legal system to financially drain and emotionally torture her. In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lynn shares: How her ex used false CPS claims and restraining orders to gain powerWhat it’s like to be revictimized by the family court systemHow legal abuse becomes a weapon for narcissistsThe emotional toll of being trapped in a system that doesn’t believe you If you’ve ever felt like the courts weren’t protecting you—or were actively being used against you—this episode will speak directly to your experience. 🛑 Trigger Warning: Topics include family court abuse, false accusations, custody battles, and post-separation legal control. ABOUT LYNN Now a speaker and advocate with the National Domestic Violence Hotline’s Storyteller Collective and Advisory Council, Lynn uses her voice to help others see the red flags sooner and find the courage to get out. If you’re stuck in a cycle of leaving and returning, this story will help you feel seen—and show you that you're not alone. ⚠️ Trigger Warning: Topics include emotional abuse, trauma bonding, gaslighting, and the emotional aftermath of leaving an abusive relationship. 📞 If you need immediate help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. domestic abuse survivor story reproductive coercion podcast trauma bonding and abuse strangulation warning signs intimate partner violence emotional abuse survivor escaping domestic violence coercive control in relationships survivor stories podcast National Domestic Violence Hotline B!tch Is A Bad Word: A Podcast On Domestic Abuse is a podcast about identifying and navigating your way through and out of Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse, hosted by a survivor of Domestic Abuse. Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on September 23, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- Trauma doesn't just affect your mind and spirit - it can deeply affect your body, manifesting as chronic illnesses. And now there is scientific evidence linking the two - if we work on healing the trauma, the body recovers, too. Adriana Bucci is a life coach and narcissistic abuse survivor who helps people untangle the invisible threads between trauma, toxic relationships, and chronic pain. She shares how growing up with a narcissistic mother, and later dating narcissistic partners, left her carrying pain in ways she didn’t even realize. We talk about the mind-body connection — how years of gaslighting, repression, and emotional abuse can show up as migraines, autoimmune flare-ups, skin conditions, or chronic illness. And most importantly, Adriana explains how healing your emotions can begin to heal your body. We cover practical tools like journaling safely (without fear of your abuser reading it), the Gray Rock Method, and how to reclaim your energy from someone who only wants to drain it. Adriana reminds us that anger is not our enemy — it’s our body’s way of saying enough. Get Adriana's 7 STEPS GUIDE FREE HERE Adriana's LINKS ABOUT ADRIANA BUCCI Adriana is the founder of Let's Get Your Shift Together. After nearly 3 decades of enduring narcissistic abuse and 4 years of dealing with severe chronic pain - I had to make the choice to embark on my own healing journey. Doing my inner work not only helped me heal from the physical pain I went through, but it also helped me heal from the narcissistic abuse I endured from being raised by a narcissistic mother, other close relationships, and even colleagues/toxic workplaces (they were everywhere!). My own healing journey inspired me to become a life coach so I could help other people. My certifications include: Certified Professional Life CoachCertified Mind Body Fitness CoachCertified Stress Management coachCertified SafeSpace Trauma Informed Facilitator My goal is to empower survivors of narcissistic abuse to heal, set boundaries, and live life on their own terms! Need Help? If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. Narcissistic abuse recovery Domestic violence survivor story Toxic relationship healing Mind-body connection trauma Gray Rock Method Chronic pain and abuse Coercive control in relationships Emotional abuse recovery tools Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on August 21, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In this raw and emotional episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, survivor Loren Gray shares her powerful story of escaping a covertly abusive relationship while raising a young child. Loren’s story sheds light on the often-missed signs of coercive control, financial abuse, emotional manipulation, and the deep trauma that can exist even without physical violence. What begins as a seemingly perfect relationship quickly spirals into isolation, financial control, sexual coercion, and deep emotional harm—all under the guise of love and support. Loren explains how abuse doesn't always look the way we expect, and how victims can lose their voice long before they recognize they're being silenced. ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of emotional abuse, sexual coercion, postpartum trauma, gaslighting, and parenting while surviving domestic violence. 🎙️ Topics Covered: Why coercive control is more dangerous than it looks What financial abuse really looks like in a relationship Navigating new motherhood while being isolated by a partner How abusers use "protection" and “fixing” as manipulation The moment Loren realized she was no longer herself—and how she began to reclaim her power Finding healing and purpose through sharing her story Loren’s strength and vulnerability shine through as she describes what it took to escape, heal, and build a new life for herself and her child. If you’ve ever typed into Google: “he changed after I got pregnant” “controlling partner during pregnancy” “abuse while pregnant” “relationship changed after baby” “felt trapped during pregnancy” ...this episode is for you We’ve got your back, Bestie. And your second (or third) act. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. ABOUT LOREN Loren Greye is an author, solo mother, and creative healer helping women turn their after into their most powerful chapter yet. After experiencing emotional abuse and the collapse of the life she thought she’d have, Loren rebuilt everything—from the inside out. Through writing, motherhood, and intentional inner work, she found her way back to herself. Now she helps other women do the same. Whether through reflective journaling, storytelling, or creative tools that support emotional recovery, Loren’s work guides women in processing their pain, reclaiming their voice, and designing a life that feels aligned and fully their own. Instagram (handle: @lorengreye.after)Amazon: Till Death We Do NotAmazon: In This Body5-day journal: Awaken The Knowing coercive control survivor financial abuse in relationships emotional abuse and gaslighting postpartum and domestic violence sexual coercion in marriage parenting through trauma escaping emotional abuse motherhood and abuse Loren Gray survivor story real stories of domestic abuse Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on November 11, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In this episode, Lindsay sits down with somatic healing expert and author Beatriz (Bea) Victoria Albina, NP, MPH, SEP for a conversation that will have you rethinking how you relate to yourself and everyone else. Bea breaks down her trademarked concept, “Outsourcing Your Emotions,” and explains how we chronically and habitually give our sense of safety, belonging, and worth to everyone and everything outside of ourselves and the deep cost that has on our SELF. Together, Lindsay and Bea unpack what it means to source your sense from within, offering practical and embodied tools for nervous system regulation, co-regulation, and building a relationship with your body that feels like home again. She’s brilliant, bold, and such a damn good time. This episode is the somatic wake-up call every recovering people-pleaser and perfectionist needs. Inside This Episode: • What “outsourcing your emotions” really means • How to recognize emotional outsourcing as a habit, not your identity • Why codependency, perfectionism, and people-pleasing are nervous system strategies • Somatic and co-regulation tools to bring you back into your body • How to reclaim your safety, belonging, and worth from within About Beatriz Albina: Beatriz (Bea) Victoria Albina, NP, MPH, SEP (she/her) is a UCSF-trained Family Nurse Practitioner, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Master Certified Somatic Life Coach, author of the book "End Emotional Outsourcing: A Guide to Overcoming Codependent, Perfectionist and People Pleasing Habits" (Sept 30, Hachette Balance), and host of the Feminist Wellness Podcast. With over 20 years in health and wellness, Bea helps baddies all over the world, reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and reclaim their joy. SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS  Book Website with pre-order detailsInstagram: @beatrizvictoriaalbinanpPodcast: Feminist Wellness ----- Support Our Sponsor: TALKINGPARENTS APP The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw 💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀 If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave. 👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now. ---- Need Help? If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on July 17, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- What happens when a mother drops her daughter off at school—and never sees her again? In this gut-wrenching episode of Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with “M,” a doctor, mother, and fierce advocate who dropped her daughter off at school one morning and never saw her come home. It’s been 262 days. No warning, no goodbye. Just a so-called “temporary” custody order that became a silent sentence. From lost milestones to supervised calls, M shares her story of post-separation abuse, litigation trauma, and relentless love. This is a call for family court reform and a voice for silenced mothers We unpack the truth behind family court trauma, post-separation abuse, and the terrifying reality so many protective mothers face. M's story is a powerful call to action and a heartbreaking reminder that this system is failing the very people it claims to protect. Inside This Episode: What happens when a six-year-old is taken without notice or legal groundsWhy “temporary” custody orders often last for yearsParenting through supervised calls—and losing milestones to silenceHow the courts weaponize protective mothers and reward abusersThe quiet epidemic of litigation abuse and coercive controlThe grassroots movement demanding family court reform About M: M is a physician, a mother, and a survivor. She’s part of the National Safe Parents Coalition and an advocate for reforming the family court system. Her story is both a warning and a rallying cry for every mother told to stay quiet, and every child caught in the middle. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 We see you. We believe you. We've got your back, Bestie. Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on October 7, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- CLICK HERE FOR JAFARI LAW'S FREE GUIDE TO USING PARENTING APPS Leaving your abusive marriage or relationship may be the hardest step but picking the right lawyer may be the most important. You don't need someone who just knows the law but also understands what you've been through and the manipulative tactics your abuser will employ with the judge and with you. You need someone who knows your court, your judge and how "to read the room" to help you get what you are fighting for. Padideh Jafari is a trauma informed Family Law and Divorce Lawyer in Southern California who specializes working with victims of domestic abuse, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, verbal abuse and coercive control. She lays out for you what you need to look for in an attorney and why choosing not just a good lawyer but an attorney who understands the mentality of your abuser and your judge is so important. Together they cover: - How to tell if a lawyer understands domestic violence and coercive control - Red flags to avoid when meeting with lawyers - How abusers weaponize the legal system against you (and what to do about it) - The truth about litigation abuse, custody court, and financial manipulation This episode is your legal survival guide—whether you’re newly separated or stuck in a court battle that just won’t end. Need Help? If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. ABOUT PADIDEH JAFARI, ESQ. Padideh Jafari, Esq. is the Founder and CEO of Jafari Law & Mediation Office which is a Family Law and Divorce firm with offices in Los Angeles and Orange County. Attorney Jafari is a practicing lawyer for over 22 years. She is a former NYU and Southern California Institute of Law adjunct professor. She is the Podcast co-host of, the Narcissist Abuse Recovery Channel on iHeart Radio and Spotify. Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on June 19, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In this honest and uplifting episode of Bitch is a Bad Word, Jenn from Single Mom Society breaks down the myths around single motherhood — the struggles everyone talks about, but also the hard-won freedoms that come from walking away from toxic relationships. If you’ve ever felt trapped or doubted your choice to leave, this one’s for you. We’re talking about the tough realities of child support, toxic exes, and parenting solo — but also the powerful freedom of setting your own rules, cooking what you want for dinner, and living without fear. Jenn shares what it really means to be brave enough to leave and reclaim your life, even when it gets harder before it gets better. You’ll learn: Why single motherhood isn’t just struggle — it’s strength and freedomHow leaving toxic relationships can open new emotional and practical doorsThe myth of “it’s easier to stay” — and why bravery is your superpowerNavigating the challenges of parenting solo without losing yourselfHow to find community and support 24/7 when you need it most This episode is perfect for listeners looking for: Empowerment in single motherhoodHealing from toxic relationshipsReal talk about parenting soloStories of bravery and freedomSupport and connection anytime, anywhere About Jenn: Jenn is the founder of Single Mom Society, a vibrant community and resource hub where single moms can connect 24/7 with other women who get it — and find expert guidance to thrive. Jenn’s mission is to uplift, empower, and remind every single mom she’s not alone. Listen to the Single Mom Society Podcast here! If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties! Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on November 25, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In this episode, Lindsay sits down with two unstoppable forces changing the way we talk about abuse before it ever happens: Burd Beauty founders Leah (17) and Misha (15) Burdeen, and Shear Haven founder and advocate Susanne Post. Together, they are redefining what it means to use beauty, education, and community as tools for real safety. We get into how Burd Beauty is turning a hair care brand into a life saving mission, using shampoo to start conversations about teen dating violence, policy change, and giving young people language to protect themselves. Susanne breaks down how Shear Haven trains stylists around the world to recognize warning signs behind the chair and become first responders in moments that matter. This episode is a wake up call, a masterclass, and a battle cry for anyone who believes prevention starts with honest conversations, safe adults, and empowering the next generation. Inside This Episode: • How Burd Beauty is building a beauty brand that doubles as a prevention tool • Shear Haven’s global salon training movement and why cosmetologists are uniquely positioned to spot abuse • The red flags teens miss because no one teaches them what healthy is supposed to feel like • Why early education is the key to breaking generational cycles • How beauty spaces can save lives, literally Burd Beauty: https://burdbeauty.com/ Teen sisters Leah and Misha Burdeen are using their platform to change the culture around relationships, self worth, and prevention. Their products fuel confidence and a movement. Shear Haven: https://shearhaventraining.org/ Founded by Susanne Post, Shear Haven trains stylists worldwide to identify signs of abuse, respond safely, and offer resources that can save a life. ----- Support Our Sponsor: TALKINGPARENTS APP The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw 💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀 If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave. 👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now. ---- Need Help? If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on June 26, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- What if healing didn’t come in a bottle—but in a mushroom grown from the dirt? In this powerful episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, I’m joined by Tracey Tee, founder of Moms on Mushrooms, to talk about motherhood, microdosing, and the kind of healing no one teaches us—especially not in a doctor’s office. We talk about how psilocybin is helping women process trauma, release rage, and get clarity on the choices that actually serve them. Tracey breaks down what it means to be whole in your pain, why community is essential when you're waking up, and how mushrooms help moms stop people-pleasing and start listening to their gut—even when it goes against everything we've been told. Inside This Episode: • Why crying for five days doesn’t mean it’s not working—it means it is • What Big Pharma won’t tell you about emotional processing • How to “two sleeps” your way out of a fight with your ex • What psilocybin can do that SSRIs never could • Why you don’t have to respond to every message from your narcissist co-parent • What it looks like to take radical responsibility for your own healing • How Moms on Mushrooms is building community off social media and outside the algorithm About Moms on Mushrooms: Founded by Tracey Tee, Moms on Mushrooms is a digital community and education platform for mothers exploring microdosing, plant medicine, and personal transformation. With courses, peer support, and private forums, M.O.M. offers a grounded space to heal, connect, and reclaim your story—one dose at a time. Visit them at https://www.momsonmushrooms.com/ If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties! Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on June 24, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- What if you could take the chaos of your divorce and build something that actually works—for you? In this empowering episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, I’m joined by Alex and Amanda, certified mediators and co-hosts of the Dirty Laundry Podcast. These two brilliant Canadians specialize in helping women navigate the legal minefield after leaving abusive relationships—and today, they're breaking down how to build a post-separation plan on your own terms. We dive deep into the realities of self-representation, family court, and co-parenting with a high-conflict or abusive ex. Whether you're knee-deep in legal drama or just trying to figure out your next step, this episode is packed with clarity, strategy, and truth. Inside This Episode: • Why mediation might be your best move after leaving an abuser • How to “Frankenstein” your divorce using the right experts at the right time • What the courts don’t tell you about parenting plans • Alternatives to hiring a shark lawyer (and why you might not need one) • What every woman should know before walking into family court About Dirty Laundry: Alex and Amanda are certified mediators and hosts of the Dirty Laundry Podcast, a must-listen for anyone navigating toxic exes, legal chaos, and the healing that comes after. They bring sharp insight, deep empathy, and a much-needed dose of realness to the family law space. FOLLOW Dirty Laundry: Instagram @dirty.laundry.podcast YouTube @DirtyLaundryPodcast You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties! Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on October 16, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In this episode of B!tch Is a Bad Word’s: B!tch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Malou. Malou found B!tch Is a Bad Word the same way so many of us do, scrolling through social media late at night, trying to make sense of the question that changes everything: What the fck is this relationship I’m in?* Through the endless carousel of “relationship advice” and trauma content, she began piecing together what was really happening behind closed doors. What started as confusion became clarity, and what once felt like isolation turned into community. In this conversation, Malou shares how discovering language around micro-aggressions, narrative abuse, and subtle forms of control helped her name what she was experiencing and start rebuilding her sense of self. More than that, she talks about the ripple effect that happens when survivors speak up, how one story shared online can become the reason another woman finally sees the truth in her own. Inside This Episode: • Using social media to decode emotional and psychological abuse • The “what the f*ck is this relationship?” moment that changes everything • How micro-aggressions and narrative abuse keep victims doubting themselves • The ripple effect of storytelling in survivor communities • Finding clarity and connection through shared experience Why this episode matters: Malou’s story is a reminder that healing often starts in the quiet scroll, in the comment sections, and in the courage to say something’s not right here. It’s about how awareness spreads, one post, one podcast, and one story at a time. If you’ve ever questioned your reality, doubted your instincts, or turned to the internet looking for answers, this one’s for you. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of emotional abuse, manipulation, and coercive control. Please take care while listening. We’ve got your back, Besties. Need Help? If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on September 15, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- She thought she married a charming, successful man. Instead, she ended up trapped in a controlling, emotionally abusive marriage that nearly broke her. In this episode of Bitch Is A Bad Word, journalist and divorce coach Amy Polacko opens up about her own experience with a covert narcissist—a partner who manipulated, isolated, and gaslit her behind closed doors. She explains how smart, accomplished women like her often find themselves stuck in relationships that look perfect on the outside but feel like walking on eggshells inside. Amy helps women spot the warning signs of abuse most people miss—especially when there are no bruises. From love bombing to emotional control, this conversation dives deep into the red flags that survivors often don’t recognize until it's too late. Whether you’re wondering: - “Why does my partner blame me for everything?” - “Is it really abuse if there’s no violence?” - “Why do I feel trapped, scared, and exhausted?” This episode will help you name what’s happening, understand the tactics of abusers, and realize you’re not alone. 🔊 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses emotional abuse, control, manipulation, gaslighting, narcissistic relationships, and trauma. 📞 If you need immediate help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. ABOUT AMY POLACKO Amy is a divorce coach and award-winning journalist who survived a narcissist nightmare. She empowers women to be the CEO of their own divorce. Amy has coached hundreds of women in toxic relationships and writes for national news outlets about coercive control, domestic abuse, divorce, online dating and singlehood. Her work has been featured in HuffPost, The Washington Post, Newsweek, NBC News THINK, The Independent, New York Observer and Ms. magazine. She co-authored the groundbreaking book FRAMED: Women in the Family Court Underworld with Dr. Christine Cocchiola which exposes the gender bias in our family court system (www.narcfreepress.com). Learn more about Amy at www.freedomwarrior.info and on Instagram @freedomwarriortribe Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on Aug 7, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- In this powerful and emotional episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, survivor and advocate Lynn shares her harrowing journey through childhood trauma, reproductive coercion, intimate partner violence, emotional abuse, and sexual assault—including surviving strangulation and rape. Lynn bravely recounts her experience growing up with a compulsive gambler father, enduring multiple abusive relationships, and navigating the life-threatening consequences of reproductive coercion before eventually escaping a cycle of violence and finding healing. She also explains how trauma bonding, coercive control, and systemic failures kept her trapped—and how she finally broke free. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses childhood trauma, domestic abuse, reproductive coercion, strangulation, sexual assault, and emotional abuse. Topics Covered: - The psychological and financial impact of compulsive gambling - How trauma bonding keeps survivors in abusive relationships - What reproductive coercion really looks like (and why it’s rarely prosecuted) - The terrifying warning signs of strangulation and intimate partner rape - Why love bombing and control often hide behind “soulmate” language - Breaking generational trauma and healing through therapy and advocacy Lynn is now a speaker and advocate affiliated with the National Domestic Violence Hotline’s Storyteller Collective and Advisory Council. Connect with her via Instagram or LinkedIn. We’ve got your back, Bestie. And your second (or third) act. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode originally aired on July 1, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- What if the chaos you’re in feels familiar—because it is? In this validating and unflinching episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, I’m joined by somatic trauma expert Phoenix Gould for a conversation that will hit home for anyone who’s ever loved someone who flipped from warm to cruel in seconds—and made you feel like it was your fault. We explore the terrifying emotional terrain of narcissistic relationships, especially for women conditioned in childhood to tolerate emotional abandonment. Phoenix shares how our nervous systems respond in survival mode, why basic kindness can feel revolutionary, and what it really means to practice self-love when leaving isn’t yet an option. Inside This Episode: • Why stonewalling and the silent treatment feel so familiar • The biological reason your brain can’t “think clearly” in the relationship • What happens when a narcissist senses they’re losing control • How to hold space for shame without letting it define you • Whether healing is even possible while you’re still with them About Phoenix Gould: Phoenix is a somatic trauma educator and therapist who helps survivors of abuse reclaim their bodies, boundaries, and sense of self. Her work centers on nervous system repair, radical self-compassion, and empowering women to break generational patterns. For Radical Self-Love Coaching, Find Phoenix: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phoenixcorecoaching/ WhatsApp: +1 780-268-9888 Or Email Her: [email protected] We've got your back, Besties! You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties! Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Bitch Sesh originally aired on Aug 28, 2025. If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org ----- What happens when leaving the abuse is only the beginning? In this gripping episode of Bitch Is A Bad Word, Vicki shares her 21-year journey of surviving an abusive marriage, fighting through endless family court battles, and protecting her children while rebuilding her life from scratch. From being told “you’ll have no one and nothing” to watching her ex sabotage finances, drag her through years of litigation, and weaponize custody, Vicki explains how abuse doesn’t end when you walk out the door — it often continues in the courtroom. She opens up about: - What it’s really like to spend years and millions fighting in family court - How abusers use money and legal systems as weapons - The emotional toll of being gaslit, shamed, and silenced - Why leaving takes more than courage — it takes support and strategy - The turning point when she realized she already had the strength to get free - If you’ve ever thought: - “Why is my divorce taking years?” - “Why does my ex keep dragging me back to court?” - “How do I protect my kids when the abuse won’t stop?” — this episode will help you feel seen, validated, and less alone. 📞 If you or someone you know is in danger, call The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. ----- JOIN the BIABW PATREON and DISCORD SERVER where we're building our Bestie community! On Discord, we've created a safe space where you can connect anonymously with others and share. And on Patreon, I "spill the tea" all week long as well as have all the episodes available ad-free! Join at patreon.com/BitchIsABadWord STAY UPDATED & SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: https://www.caliber-studio.com/bitch-is-a-bad-word-with-lindsay#biabwsubscribe Connect with Us: 📧 Email: [email protected] 📱 Call or Text: (331) BITCHES 📸 Instagram: @bitchisabadwordpod 🎵 TikTok: @bitchisabadword LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE: - Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bitch-is-a-bad-word/id1780948251 - Spotify Podcasts: open.spotify.com/show/3frZ12xmxKo0lCa8eIGCDD - Website: caliber-studio.com/bitchisabadword Listen wherever you get your podcasts Watch: YouTube Join: Patreon Follow: Instagram TikTok Subscribe: Newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.