Two years in, and I'm finally ready to share some of my personal healing journey following domestic violence. What began as determination to leave my abuser slowly morphed into doubt and questioning - was it really abuse? Could the relationship be saved? In therapy, a seemingly simple exercise changed everything. Writing my story on an imaginary scroll and reading it back as if it belonged to someone else broke me open. "That poor woman," I whispered through tears, before realizing that woman was me.
The healing journey hasn't been linear. After the initial freedom of leaving came unexpected challenges - misinterpreting friends' intentions, suspecting hidden agendas, experiencing physiological responses to everyday interactions. Through dedicated therapy work, I've learned that healing requires feeling everything: the sadness, exhaustion, frustration, anger, pain, happiness, uncertainty, and even pride. Most importantly, I've discovered that obsessing over understanding my abuser only prevented my own growth. Questions like "Was the abuse intentional?" and "Did they ever truly love me?" consumed mental space better used for self-discovery and healing.
From a small idea launched on March 1st, 2021, 1 in 3 has grown into a community spanning 40+ countries with thousands of downloads and 16 incredible guests. This episode marks a new chapter, but the mission remains the same: sharing real stories of domestic violence, raising awareness, and offering hope to everyone affected. Whether you're just beginning your healing journey or well along the path, remember that self-love is the foundation, and you're never alone. Your messages of encouragement and support keep this podcast going, and I'm deeply grateful for each of you.

1 in 3 is intended for mature audiences. Episodes contain explicit content and may be triggering to some.

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If you are in the United States and need help right now, call the national domestic violence hotline at 800-799-7233 or text the word “start” to 88788.
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Cover art by Laura Swift Dahlke
Music by Tim Crowe