I'm Not In An Abusive Relationship

Carol White, Doctor of Nursing Practice and abuse survivor, shares her mother's legacy of surviving her own abuse through publishing her mother's poetry.'My mother was a survivor of domestic violence who, after 23 years of marriage, was able to escape her husband. She filed charges against him and carried those through to trial. But writing poetry was her lifeline. While she was alive, my mother did not have the confidence or money to bring her work to publication outside of entering poetry contests, where she won nearly 200 awards in 15 states. Though my mother passed away in 2005, three years ago I started the process of bringing her work to publication. There are a total of 10 books set for release over the next couple years, starting with Stoic Resilience: Poems of Suffering and Freeing Oneself from Abuse.'Find more information on Carol's website White Publishing.———————————If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org.Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here.We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

The COVID-19 pandemic that began in March of 2020 is now in its third year. While it seems we're in an improving environment, it's still something we're all dealing with. How has the pandemic affected DASAS's services over the last couple years? What are we looking to in the future? This DASAS panel explores these questions in this episode. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Silas Caste, single father of 2 boys and the author of Interrupted Dreams, joins Dan on this episode to share hi survivor story and his journey to becoming an author. His fictional thriller is based on the true events of his own story of domestic abuse and would-be murder. He says he wanted to write this book as a way to highlight attention to males who endure the consequences of domestic violence – and to offer hope and assurance that there is a way forward. Website: https://www.bulletheadbooks.com About: https://www.bulletheadbooks.com/about ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

What is intimate partner violence? Is intimate partner violence the same as domestic violence? What are the differences? The term intimate partner violence describes physical, sexual, or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse. DASAS therapist Elizabeth Alderson explains where the current term intimate partner violence stems from and how it compares to the standard term domestic violence. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Christina Vitagliano is an author, entrepreneur, and the founder of the successful Family entertainment concept, Monster Mini Golf. She's also a survivor of childhood abuse. In this episode, Christina shares her story of overcoming an abusive childhood to build a multi-million dollar business. Having spent decades working on her memoir Every 9 Minutes, Christina hopes to share her story and touch listeners' hearts with her account of childhood abuse, empowering survivors to reclaim their lives and learn to thrive despite their trauma. Christina's links: Every 9 Minutes: A Memoir Christina on LinkedIn Christina on Twitter ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

The holidays can be tough for anyone. They're especially difficult for victims and survivors of abuse. Oftentimes they're immersed in family where their abuser lives. Or perhaps the question of, "Where is that nice person you were dating last year?" brings up all the emotions of surviving abuse. Whatever the case, Elizabeth Alderson, therapist at DASAS, offers insights into surviving the holidays as a survivor. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Assistant Prosecutor St Joe County Debbie Davis joins Claudia Pahls on this episode to discuss how the Court is helping victims of violence. ———————————If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org.Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here.We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Host Dan Moyle met Amy Malin while conducting a business podcast interview. When she mentioned that she was a survivor of abuse, and how that was one factor in why she gave to others, Dan knew her story would resonate on I'm Not In An Abusive Relationship. Since the early 2000's, social entrepreneur Amy Malin "has worked at the intersection of Hollywood and philanthropy with her cause agency Trueheart where she connected celebrities and purpose-driven brands to team up for great causes." (source) In this episode, Amy shares her survivor story along with a story of hope & healing. Links: TrueHeart Amy on LinkedIn TrueHeart Search Engine ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Hear Danielle's survivor story and how she now helps others who face what she faced as a victim. Domestic Harmony Shelter - Hillsdale, MI Read Danielle's story by Tine University ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Margo Pierce, Drop-In Center Facilitator at the OutCenter of Southwest Michigan, joins Dan Moyle in this conversation to close out Pride Month 2021. Margo is trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid, CRM, and recently Healthy Relationships (with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community). She and Dan talk about issues facing the LGBTQ+ Community including intimate partner violence, domestic abuse and more. OutCenter of Southwest Michigan ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Domestic abuse and sexual violence is often seen through a lens of cisgender, heterosexual relationships. It's an easy stereotype to fall back on. Unfortunately, abuse occurs across all relationship types, regardless of sexual or gender identity. J. Kyon, Community Impact Lead at the Kalamazoo YWCA, joins Dan Moyle on this episode to talk about the intersections of marginalized community members of the LGBTQIA+ Community as they face abuse while also facing societal judgements. Kalamazoo YWCA Why Pronouns Matter ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Lois Hollis, RN, BSN, REV. is a shame guilt educator, counselor, filmmaker. In this episode, Lois shifts our opinion on the taboo subject, shame and guilt. As a trailblazer, she helped create one of the first Kidney Hemodialysis Units in the USA in 1966. Today Lois establishes shame guilt as an independent study. Her 50 years' experience in health, 15 years' researching, and counseling brings NEW knowledge of these misunderstood conditions to release us from shame guilt blaming. Lois' first film, "Out of Discord Into Harmony," was released in 2008. Her new film "I'm Good" makes shame guilt visible. Links for Lois: Website YouTube Facebook LinkedIn ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.  

Pamela Riley, Executive Director of the St. Joseph County Commission on Aging, joins Dan Moyle to discuss Elder Abuse Awareness Month. In this episode, learn what elder abuse looks like, how you can keep an eye on your aging neighbors, the warning signs and more. Links: St. Joseph County Commission on Aging website Find an enrichment center near you St. Joseph County Commission on Aging on Facebook ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

A quick programming note: I'm Not In An Abusive Relationship will take a brief hiatus for the month of May. We will return in June with new episodes. Thank you for listening. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Healthy relationships look different for everyone. And sometimes, an unhealthy relationship isn't the fault of just one person. Looking for the red flags can be hard work. That's the idea behind Dean Anderson's book Was That a Red Flag? Dean shares his story of how he wrote the book and how he's helping people dealing with their relationships, find warning signs, and make better decisions. Links: Was That a Red Flag? Information on Dean ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to strengthen families to prevent child abuse and neglect. (National Child Abuse Awareness Month resource) Domestic And Sexual Abuse Services (DASAS) has child advocates to help prevent child abuse, to help children facing abuse and to offer services for families. On this episode, Claudia and a DASAS panel cover what child advocates do for the community. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Renee Abrams and Katey McPherson of Bark, a technology to help parents and caregivers proactively monitor text messages, social media and more for their children's safety, join Dan on this episode to talk about keeping our kids safe from sexual assault online. From red flags to technology to help, this conversation covers a lot as we continue our Sexual Assault Awareness Month coverage. Resources mentioned in this episode: Bark Protect Young Eyes Talking About Sex (website) Peggy Orenstein (books) Common Sense Media Building Boys (website) ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we are helping parents and caretakers talk to their children about sexual assault. It's not easy to approach the subject without scaring (and scarring) them. But it's also not good to ignore the possibilities. On this episode, a panel of DASAS team members tackle the question "I'm afraid of scaring my children by talking to them about sexual abuse, but I'm also afraid not to talk to them about it. What should I do?" ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

In this episode, DASAS Executive Director Krista DeBoer shares information about a presentation she gave the DASAS Board of Directors on media coverage— news and entertainment media— on sexual assault, harassment, abuse and rape. Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is a campaign each April to raise public awareness about sexual assault and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence. The goal is to bring as many organizations together to highlight sexual violence as a public health, human rights and social justice issue and reinforce the need for prevention efforts. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center provides the annual theme, slogan, resources and materials for the national SAAM campaign. (paraphrased from Wikipedia) Links: Sexual Assault Awareness Month Moxie Sexual Violence in the Media: An Exploration of Traditional Print Media Reporting in the United States, 2014–2017 ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Nicole Railsback - Co-Owner and Operator of Railsback Indoor Sports Expo - The RISE in Southwest Michigan, shares her story of abuse, escape, a return to the person who abused her, ultimately escaping and the damage her return caused... coupled with forgiveness, love and survival. The RISE ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Bill Furr, President of the Board of Directors at DASAS and chair of the facilities committee, joins Dan on this episode to discuss how listeners can help support Domestic And Sexual Abuse Services (DASAS). From giving money to donating supplies to our emergency shelter, you can help us support survivors in many ways. DASAS Wish List Donate to DASAS ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

After two years and 100 episodes, some of the people behind I'm Not In An Abusive Relationship gather to discuss where we started, what expectations we had and where are now. As of this release, our little podcast produced in Southwest Michigan for our 3 counties we support has been downloaded (or streamed) nearly 80,000 times. We average 792 downloads/plays per episode (the industry average is 140 per episode). We reach every state in the U.S. plus another 103 countries. Our goal to spread hope and help is working. Listen in as Dan Moyle welcomes Claudia Pahls (host), Ned Haylett (former President), Rose Ludwick (former Executive Director), Krista DeBoer (Executive Director) and Deborah Hackworth (Director of Advocacy Services) to discuss what it takes to launch and maintain a podcast for a nonprofit. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Survivors of sexual abuse (and domestic violence) span genders, sex, orientation and other identifiers. In other words, yes, men are victims, too. In this episode, you'll hear from a licensed counselor who helps men find hope and healing. Papillion 'Poppy' DeBoer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who, among other clients, specializes in helping male survivors navigate their healing. Poppy uses evidence-based techniques and methods, drawing primarily from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy. Resources: Sexual Victimization Perpetrated by Women: Federal Data Reveal Surprising Prevalence The Body Keeps the Score My Body Belongs to Me (for kids) A Practical Guide to Complex PTSD Am I Broken (Poppy's podcast) Agency of Change (Poppy's website) ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Laura Kopacz is a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE Nurse) at ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital Branch County Sexual Assault Services. On this episode, Laura explores the question, "Is most violence against women committed by strangers?" Laura also explains what survivors of sexual abuse can expect when working with medical professionals trained in working with victims/survivors. Important note: victims of sexual assault do not pay for this service. There is no cost to you as a survivor for help. Links: Branch County Sexual Assault Services Read about Laura ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Michigan’s problem-solving courts have been extraordinarily successful in solving problems and saving lives, thanks in large part to Dr. Barbara Howes. These innovative courts reach 97 percent of our state’s population and help to make communities statewide safer and stronger. Also called treatment courts, they are successful because participants can access treatment and other support needed to address underlying issues affecting persons entering the criminal justice and abuse neglect court systems, specifically, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, mental illness, and untreated trauma. Unlike traditional courts, problem-solving courts are not adversarial and take a team approach that brings community stakeholders together to reach a “win-win” outcome that prevents further offenses and saves local governments the cost of incarceration. The Cass County Courts have been on the forefront of the problem-solving/treatment court movement and have obtained numerous federal and state grants to provide much-needed services to our Cass County community. Cass County’s full continuum of problem-solving courts focuses on providing evidence-based responses that work to improve outcomes, restore families, and make our communities safer. Links: Specialty court coordinators share success of program ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Valentine's Day: The day "we" celebrate couples. But love isn't always pink hearts, roses and candy. Couple's counseling can help when things aren't right. But what about when you're in an abusive relationship? Can couple's counseling help? Listen to this conversation with DASAS therapist Elizabeth Alderson on why couple's counseling can actually be a problem if the relationship is abusive. Resources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: Should I Go To Couples Therapy With My Abusive Partner? ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

This is a survivor story of a teenage relationship gone wrong. Trigger warning: this conversation includes talk of coercive sex and abuse. We open Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month with Sally's story. What began as a happy relationship between two high schoolers became a terrifying nightmare. Behind the good looks and charming nature, the boyfriend was an abusive and manipulative monster. He terrified and abused Sally constantly. The torture that she endured consumed every aspect of her life, isolating her from friends and family, as well as impacting her health and academics. Links: Sally on Instagram Sally's story in her own words Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Hope for Justice exists to bring an end to modern slavery by preventing exploitation, rescuing victims, restoring lives and reforming society. On this episode, Richard Shoeberl, US Investigations Team Leader, joins Dan to explore the mission to prevent, rescue, restore and reform in the face of the global epidemic of slavery and human trafficking. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

The Kalamazoo Area Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition was formed in 2012. The group is a community member organization that comes together to raise awareness and advocate for services in the Kalamazoo area. They're a recognized regional task force under the Michigan Human Trafficking Task Force. Founder Sara Morley-LaCroix joins Dan Moyle in this second installment of our special series on National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month to discuss this local effort to bring awareness and prevention to an epidemic affecting so many. Links:   Kalamazoo Area Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition   ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

This is the first in a 3-part special series for National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. We kick off our series with Keeping Our Kids Safe on Social with Bark Technology and Titania Jordan. Titania Jordan is the CMO and Chief Parent Officer of Bark.us, an internet safety solution that helps parents and schools keep children safer across social media, text messaging, and email. In this episode, we hear what parents can do to help monitor their children's safety and help to protect them from predators using the internet to groom them for abuse. Resources mentioned in this episode: Bark Technologies Children Rescue Coalition Titania's book Parenting in a Tech World: A handbook for raising kids in the digital age Bark's Stone Fish short documentary ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

In many states, Friend of the Court has a negative reputation. They're seen as a faceless organization with no compassion. In Cass County Michigan, the Director and Deputy, and the rest of the staff, make it their mission to serve and empower families to make children's lives better. In this episode, Dan and Krista are joined by Friend of the Court Cass County Director Carol Bealor and Deputy Friend of the Court Cass County Sarah Mathews to open the conversation about how FOC helps families. Learn what resources are available, how FOC helps those in abusive relationships and hear how the humans behind the scenes care about their community. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Historically, shelters for victims of abuse were limited to 30 days. However, most of the time when a survivor is transitioning from an abusive home into their own home, it takes longer to make all of the necessary changes. At DASAS, while we work to keep our clients' stays as temporary as possible so they can find their own paths (survivor-led recovery is vital to our mission), we are no longer limited to 30 days. Our DASAS panel discusses the history of the 30-day shelter and what recovery looks like today. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

In this episode, we unpack how the holidays can impact abuse with DASAS therapist Elizabeth Alderson. Resources: Domestic Violence and the Holidays: A Survivor’s Guide The Myth of Holiday Domestic Violence FAQ: Does domestic violence increase during the holidays? Pass the potatoes — and stop talking down to your wife. What to do if you spot signs of domestic abuse at your family’s holiday gathering. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Maryssa Presbitero, child advocate at DASAS, helps answer the question "How can I tell if my parents are abusive?" Child abuse is more than physical violence or neglect. It can come in many other forms like narcissism, trying to turn the child against a parent, making the child responsible for the parent's emotional well-being and more. Resources used in this conversation: Healthline 11 signs you have an emotionally abusive mother 15 signs you have an emotionally abusive parent How you can tell if you have emotionally abusive parents Melissa's WMU article A Behavioral Analysis of Intimate Partner Violence Victims ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

This follow up to "How Does Domestic Violence Affect the Brain?" brings DASAS therapist Elizabeth Alderson back to explore whether domestic violence, and all abuse, can be a cause of depression. Research shows that victims of domestic violence or abuse are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing a range of mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and thoughts of suicide. The likelihood of developing depression was 2.7 times greater, anxiety four times greater, and drug and alcohol misuse six times greater. The likelihood of having suicidal thoughts was 3.5 times greater for women who had experienced domestic violence than those who hadn’t. —————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner.​ How does domestic violence affect the brain? What kind of damage does abuse have on one of our most important organs? And how can we recover? DASAS therapist and licensed social worker Elizabeth Alderson talks with host Claudia Pahls about the effects of domestic abuse on our brains. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Newton Matos escaped a truly harrowing past - a drug-addicted mother, gang life, homelessness and a criminal record all before he turned eighteen. He joined the Navy to escape and start a new life, but the stress of combat added to his lifelong traumas. He cracked. Suicidal and suffering from the worst case of PTSD diagnosed by Navy and civilian doctors, Newton began therapy and his life began to change. His memoir, Deep Down: Delivered From a Dark Past is his personal account of his healing and ultimate victory over an unimaginable past. It's a testament to the power of survival. Newton shares his story on this episode of I'm Not In An Abusive Relationship. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

What do you do when there's an abusive person in your family? How do you deal with toxic family members? In this episode, Director of Advocacy Services Deborah Hackworth joins Dan Moyle to talk about how to deal with family members who show abusive behavior or who exhibit toxic behavior. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

On this episode, Laura Owens, co-host of the #8 ranked All-Time Bestselling Entrepreneurship show on Apple Podcast Nobody Told Me!, joins Dan to share her survivor story. "Ironically, Nobody Told Me! was created at the darkest time of my life," Laura says. "I was desperate to hear inspirational stories from other people." Laura asked to share her story with you, our listeners, to help break the stigma about this public health crisis that plagues every corner of our society and does not discriminate. "I want to share the power of random acts of kindness, because it was the random act of kindness from a stranger that was the catalyst for my leaving the abusive relationship I was in. What that kind stranger did for me, I want to do for others. I also want to remind women to check in on their friends, even if they look like they're living the perfect life on instagram.  When I was at my all time low, you would never have been able to tell.  Maybe taking small steps, like simply supporting each other is the key." ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

For the last decade, Alisa Divine has supported women in feeling empowered. She founded The More Than Beautiful Project™, mentors women, and wrote #SheWins: Harrowing Stories From Women Who Survived Domestic Abuse. Her book captures and shares the irrepressible spirit of survivors, through portraiture and stories. She is also  the co-author of Killing Kate and Vice President of a publishing company, Personal Power Press, providing a platform for individuals to publish their stories, turn their pain into power and obstacles in opportunities, and inspire others. Alisa joins Dan to discuss her journey, her writing and her mission to empower women. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

September Burton is a survivor who believed her story to be unique. She believed, "It must be my fault that I was being abused and that if only I were better, smarter, skinnier, quieter, wealthier..." She believed if she could live up to a certain standard then he would stop abusing her and they could be happy together. She told us that because of podcasts like ours and books that brave women have written out that she eventually came to realize that her story is not unique and that there are people suffering who need to hear from those of who have been there and who have survived, healed, and overcome. Part of September's healing journey is sharing her story; a story of severe emotional and psychological abuse, as well as physical abuse by “the nicest guy you’ll ever meet." In her story she shares that her abuser is an attorney and stalked her in a way where the law couldn’t touch him. He took everything: her children, home, cars, career and her world because "I saw behind the mask he wears." September went on a healing journey and rebuilt her life. Now she speaks to empower. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Many survivors look back on an abusive relationship, domestic and sexual abuse alike, and ask some variation of "Am I crazy? Was I really abused?" This can come up because the abusive person may call their reality and their sanity into question. It may come up because their abuse doesn't look like what they thought abuse would look like, or wasn't as "severe" as someone else's journey. This question comes for many reasons. If you've asked this, then this episode is for you. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

At domestic violence vigils across the country, we remember those who did not survive their fight for life. These are the names of the victims of domestic violence in southwest Michigan for the 2019 Domestic Violence Awareness vigils. The names included on this list are those of women, children, and men who died starting in 1971 through this year.  The women, children, and men listed all died because of the determination and desperation of one individual to maintain power and control over another.  Please help us remember those whose lives were taken and to emphasize the need for continued efforts to stop domestic and sexual violence. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Whether you're a person of faith or not, going through abuse often brings up the question, "Where was God when I was being abused?" It's a big question and one the staff and volunteers at DASAS have heard over the years. In this episode, Claudia conducts a panel with Krista DeBoer, Elizabeth Alderson and Ellen Higgins. While DASAS is not a faith-based organization and we turn no one away because of their beliefs, many of us in the organization bring some kind of faith to our work. This question hits us all deeply and in different ways. We hope this vulnerable conversation helps you confront those questions and those feelings. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

What is spiritual abuse? Spiritual abuse (or religious abuse) is abuse administered under the guise of faith or religion. This can include harassment or humiliation, which may result in psychological trauma. Spiritual abuse may also include misuse of religion for selfish, secular, or ideological ends such as the abuse of a clerical position. It is weaponizing faith to exercise power and control over another person, usually from a position of power or leadership. Tracey is a survivor of spiritual abuse. On this episode she shares her story, red flags to look out for and her story on her escape from abuse, her healing and even forgiveness for those who subjected her to this spiritual abuse. Spiritual abuse is not limited to a certain religion or denomination. Any person, of any belief system, is capable of perpetrating spiritual abuse, just as anyone can be the victim of it. Signs of spiritual abuse between intimate partners include when an abusive partner: ridicules or insults the other person’s religious or spiritual beliefs prevents the other partner from practicing their religious or spiritual beliefs uses their partner’s religious or spiritual beliefs to manipulate or shame them forces the children to be raised in a faith that the other partner has not agreed to uses religious texts or beliefs to minimize or rationalize abusive behaviors (such as physical, financial, emotional or sexual abuse/marital rape) Spiritual abuse is no less harmful or difficult to endure than any other kind of abuse, as a person’s spiritual life is deeply personal. However, it can be very difficult to identify, as many victims may not recognize they are being abused. In addition, the abusive partner may claim that any challenge to the abuse is an assault on their own religious freedom. Regardless of either partner’s religious or spiritual beliefs, abuse of any kind is never acceptable or justified. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Attorney Elizabeth McCree, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, fiercely defends children in the court system. She fights for their rights in many areas, including abuse cases. She joins Dan to talk about what it means to be a guardian ad litem, how we can help and much more. Read the Benton-Michiana Spirit article here that inspired the discussion. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Detective Kevin McNeil is a twenty-year veteran who spent twelve years of his career investigating child abuse cases. He also happens to be a survivor of sexual abuse. In this episode Kevin shares his survivor story, his career in the Special Victims Unit and his other work. Kevin also created The Twelve Project to be the bridge between the lack of knowledge and awareness about abuse and people’s desire to learn. He provides resources with the aim of healing and teaching individuals, families, and communities. The Twelve Project is a safe place where people can learn about abuse 24/7. Kevin on Instagram Kevin on Amazon The 12 Project ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell made headlines with accusations of sex trafficking. They're accused of providing high-profile people, including world leaders, with access to young women and children in their teens. Epstein died in jail, while Maxwell is still in custody. This brought about a discussion with the podcast panel including Krista DeBoer, Elizabeth Alderson, Claudia Pahls and Dan Moyle. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

A survivor of abuse, Tiauna has turned tragedy into triumph. She's a successful coach, she's finding continuous healing and she's exploring new challenges. Recently she took a songwriting class. The end assignment was to write a song. So she did, performing it on Facebook for the world to hear. "Rewind" tells the story of her abusive relationship and hits the heart. Listen to her conversation with Dan about the healing power of music and more, plus catch the full song at the end of the episode. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

In this episode DASAS Sexual Assault Therapist Krista DeBoer unpacks the documentary Athlete A. Krista was also a gymnast for several years. Athlete A is a 2020 American documentary film directed by Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk. The documentary follows a team of investigative journalists from The Indianapolis Star as they broke the story of doctor Larry Nassar assaulting young female gymnasts. It was released on June 24, 2020, by Netflix. For a look at the larger subject of sexual abuse in sports, including red flags for parents to watch out for, listen to our previous episodes where we tackle this difficult subject: Sexual Abuse in Sports Part 1 Sexual Abuse in Sports Part 2 ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.

Krista DeBoer, Sexual Assault Therapist at DASAS, and Dani Filipek, Sexual Assault Advocate at DASAS join Dan Moyle to revisit sexual assault in sports. On this follow up to our previous episode "Sexual Abuse in Sports," Dani and Krista talk through red flags parents should look for, like the culture of the team which the coaches and other adults set, plus the players and their actions/attitudes, and other warning signs. ——————————— If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org. Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here. We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.