309. Dr. Diane Mueller - Breaking the Trauma Bond: Dating Again After Abuse (and Actually Enjoying It)

Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer: This raw, true survivor story contains explicit details of heavy drug use, narcissistic abuse, physical violence, and attempted murder. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Heather bravely steps forward to share her unfiltered journey in this two-part series. Many assume drugs were the root of her nightmare — but Heather makes one thing crystal clear: drugs do not cause abuse; they only make abuse far worse. She knows this truth from painful, firsthand experience. In Part 2, you’ll hear about: • Growing up with narcissistic parents who shaped her early trauma • A string of emotionally and physically abusive boyfriends • Her dangerous marriage to a violent ex-husband who nearly ended her life It’s nothing short of a miracle that Heather is still here today. Despite the years of manipulation, control, beatings, and terror, Heather fought her way back to the strong, authentic woman she was always meant to be. Her greatest lifeline? Herself — and her son, Abe. Together, this mother-son duo refused to give up. They saved each other, broke the cycle, and are now both thriving in freedom and healing. If you or someone you love is trapped in narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, toxic relationships, or battling addiction-fueled trauma, Heather’s story will give you hope, validation, and proof that recovery and freedom are possible. Perfect for anyone searching: • Narcissistic abuse recovery stories • Domestic violence survivor interviews • Escaping abusive relationships with children • Healing from narcissistic parents • Drug addiction and intimate partner violence • Real stories of surviving attempted murder 💬 Share this episode with any survivor, friend, or family member who needs to hear they are not alone and that it’s never too late to rebuild. Don’t miss this powerful conclusion of Heather’s journey from rock bottom to redemption. Thank you, Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Thank you, Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story, please email me at [email protected].   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heather's Powerful Survivor's Story: Overcoming Narcissistic Abuse, Domestic Violence, Drug Addiction & Attempted Murder – Part 1 of 2 Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer: This raw, true survivor story contains explicit details of heavy drug use, narcissistic abuse, physical violence, and attempted murder. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Heather bravely steps forward to share her unfiltered journey in this two-part series. Many assume drugs were the root of her nightmare — but Heather makes one thing crystal clear: drugs do not cause abuse; they only make abuse far worse. She knows this truth from painful, firsthand experience. In Part 1, you’ll hear about: • Growing up with narcissistic parents who shaped her early trauma • A string of emotionally and physically abusive boyfriends • Her dangerous marriage to a violent ex-husband who nearly ended her life It’s nothing short of a miracle that Heather is still here today. Despite the years of manipulation, control, beatings, and terror, Heather fought her way back to the strong, authentic woman she was always meant to be. Her greatest lifeline? Herself — and her son, Abe. Together, this mother-son duo refused to give up. They saved each other, broke the cycle, and are now both thriving in freedom and healing. If you or someone you love is trapped in narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, toxic relationships, or battling addiction-fueled trauma, Heather’s story will give you hope, validation, and proof that recovery and freedom are possible. Perfect for anyone searching: • Narcissistic abuse recovery stories • Domestic violence survivor interviews • Escaping abusive relationships with children • Healing from narcissistic parents • Drug addiction and intimate partner violence • Real stories of surviving attempted murder 💬 Share this episode with any survivor, friend, or family member who needs to hear they are not alone and that it’s never too late to rebuild. Part 2 is published too — don’t miss this powerful conclusion of Heather’s journey from rock bottom to redemption. Thank you, Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Diane Mueller is a leading naturopathic doctor with dual doctorates in naturopathic medicine and acupuncture & Oriental medicine. As a best-selling author, international speaker, and founder of the acclaimed sexuality education center MyLibidoDoc.com, she has helped thousands of women and couples reclaim their confidence, libido, and relationships. She hosts The Libido Lounge podcast — the #1 podcast for couples in long-term relationships — with over 33,000 dedicated followers. Every episode delivers practical, science-backed advice on intimacy, desire, and emotional healing tailored specifically for partners who want deeper connection after years together. In this powerful episode, Dr. Diane Mueller shares compassionate, expert guidance on how to truly heal once an abusive relationship appears to be over. Listeners will discover: Proven steps to release trauma and rebuild self-trust How to safely open your heart to a caring new partner Natural strategies using naturopathic medicine and acupuncture to support emotional recovery and libido restoration Real-life tools for couples in long-term relationships who want to break free from past pain Whether you’re navigating life after narcissistic abuse, emotional trauma, or simply ready to date again with confidence, this episode of The Libido Lounge gives you the roadmap to move forward stronger, healthier, and ready for real love. Thank you, Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello, it's Bill Mitchell, your host of WHEN DATING HURTS. Here's what I'd like for you to do: I am inviting you, our WHEN DATING HURTS listeners, to contribute a 2-3 minute audio recording of your survivor story (or your thoughts about dating abuse or domestic violence) to be included in a future episode. This initiative is specifically for those of you who may not want to do a full interview, but wish to share your dating abuse or domestic violence experiences. Who can participate? You! What should you share?: • Survivors: Whether you are currently free from abuse or in the midst of working your way out, we want to hear your story. • Friends and Family: Those who have witnessed the journey of a survivor. Or, maybe you want to share your point of view. Your words can save someone listening to what you share. • Podcast Listeners: If you have been helped by WHEN DATING HURTS, and you wish to share their thoughts, we would love to hear from you. There are no strict categories; you can share a story, a current situation, or just whatever is on your mind. Your submission process is very easy: 1. Record: Simply use the voice memo app on your phone and record your thoughts. 2. If you make mistakes: Don't worry. We all make mistakes. Simply take a pause and restart your thoughts. I will be happy to edit and bring out the best version of your story. Your willingness to join is what is most important. 3. Anonymity: To ensure your privacy and safety, all stories need to remain anonymous. If you mention names, please create those names. 4. Send: Use the "share" button in your voice memo app to email the file to [email protected]. I will take it from there. Our goal: We want to encourage listeners who live in unhealthy relationships to find safe ways to break free. You can help! We want to remind listeners, worldwide, they are not alone. Speaking together, we can make life better for thousands. By sharing your perspective, you could be providing the motivation another listener needs to work to save their own life. Your words are powerful. Thank you Thank you for listening and subscribing to the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast. Now you can be part of our growing community by telling the world the truth about dating abuse and domestic violence. Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why this interview matters If you’ve ever been stalked, controlled, or feared for your safety while trying to leave a toxic relationship, this conversation is for you. In this powerful stalking interview, Texas divorce lawyer and former Associate Judge Michele Locke breaks down exactly how stalking works, how it escalates into domestic violence, and what legal tools actually protect victims — especially during and after divorce. We sat down with Michele for her popular Friday Instagram Live (every week at 4 PM Texas time). What started as a focused discussion on stalking quickly expanded into critical territory: coercive control, emotional abuse, physical danger, and the hidden legal realities of divorcing an abusive partner. Michele Locke’s credentials • Practicing Texas divorce attorney • Former Associate Judge in Texas • Recognized expert on family law and domestic violence cases Michele Locke joined the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast twice in 2025 for deep-dive episodes on divorce from an abusive marriage. Those interviews are essential listening if you’re considering separation, protective orders, or rebuilding after abuse. Highly recommended — search “Michele Locke When Dating Hurts” or check the podcast archives. Special thanks to Michele Locke for this raw, no-fluff interview. We’re already planning her next return — she always delivers game-changing insights. Want to watch the full Instagram Live? Catch Michele every Friday at 4 PM Texas time: 👉 Follow & join her live: @attorneymichelelocke This episode is for anyone dealing with stalking, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, or an abusive divorce. You are not alone — and there are real legal strategies that work. WHEN DATING HURTS – Real stories, expert advice, and the truth about dangerous dating and relationships. 🎧 Listen / Watch now 🔗 Subscribe for WHEN DATING HURTS for future episodes with Michele Locke Thank you for listening, Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello, it's Bill Mitchell, your host of WHEN DATING HURTS. Here's what I'd like for you to do: I am inviting you, our WHEN DATING HURTS listeners, to contribute a 2-3 minute audio recording of your survivor story (or your thoughts about dating abuse or domestic violence) to be included in a future episode. This initiative is specifically for those of you who may not want to do a full interview, but wish to share your dating abuse or domestic violence experiences. Who can participate? You! What should you share?: • Survivors: Whether you are currently free from abuse or in the midst of working your way out, we want to hear your story. • Friends and Family: Those who have witnessed the journey of a survivor. Or, maybe you want to share your point of view. Your words can save someone listening to what you share. • Podcast Listeners: If you have been helped by WHEN DATING HURTS, and you wish to share their thoughts, we would love to hear from you. There are no strict categories; you can share a story, a current situation, or just whatever is on your mind. The submission process is very easy: 1. Record: Simply use the voice memo app on your phone and record your thoughts. 2. If you make mistakes: Don't worry. We all make mistakes. Simply take a pause and restart your thoughts. I will be happy to edit and bring out the best version of your story. Your willingness to join is what is most important. 3. Anonymity: To ensure your privacy and safety, all stories need to remain anonymous. If you mention names, please create those names. 4. Send: Use the "share" button in your voice memo app to email the file to [email protected]. I will take it from there. Our goal: We want to encourage listeners who live in unhealthy relationships to find safe ways to break free. You can help! We want to remind listeners, worldwide, they are not alone. Speaking together, we can make life better for thousands. By sharing your perspective, you could be providing the motivation another listener needs to work to save their own life. Your words are powerful. Thank you Thank you for listening and subscribing to the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast. Now you can be part of our growing community by telling the world the truth about dating abuse and domestic violence. Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part two of my interview with Nichole Schmidt, the Mother of Gabby Petito. Most of you remember the Gabby Petito story as it unfolded on national news across this country. When the reports said this young woman, traveling in a van out west with her boyfriend, had not been heard from for days, I admit I thought he probably killed her. Unfortunately, my intuition was correct. I wanted to speak with Gabby's parents right away, but guessed it would never happen. But now it did. In two episodes, I speak with Gabby's mother, Nichole Schmidt, on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. QUICK NOTES: • You will hear us mention a documentary in our chat. It is the 2025 Gabby Petito documentary you can see on Netflix. It is worth your time. • Also, Gabby's parents were divorced when she was very young, but they stayed in close touch in an amicable fashion. Gabby's mother and father married others, and all four parents are involved in the Gabby Petito Foundation. The Gabby Petito Foundation is driving real change in the fight against domestic violence and missing persons. Inspired by Gabby's legacy, their mission is to take action on the front lines, partnering with organizations and equipping communities and first responders with the tools, training, and support they need to prevent and respond collectively to violence, and to protect those at risk. Gabby Petito Foundation Gabby's Blog Get Involved with Gabby Petito Foundation Thank you for listening and subscribing to the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast. Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part one of our two-part interview with Nichole Schmidt , the Mother of Gabby Petito. Most of you remember the Gabby Petito story as it unfolded on national news across this country. When the reports said this young woman, traveling in a van out west with her boyfriend, had not been heard from for days, I admit I thought he probably killed her. Unfortunately, my intuition was correct. I wanted to speak with Gabby's parents right away, but guessed it would never happen. But now it did. In two episodes, I speak with Gabby's mother, Nichole Schmidt, on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. QUICK NOTES: • You will hear us mention a documentary in our chat. It is the 2025 Gabby Petito documentary you can see on Netflix. It is worth your time. • Also, Gabby's parents were divorced when she was very young, but they stayed in close touch in an amicable fashion. Gabby's mother and father married others, and all four parents are involved in the Gabby Petito Foundation. The Gabby Petito Foundation is driving real change in the fight against domestic violence and missing persons. Inspired by Gabby's legacy, their mission is to take action on the front lines, partnering with organizations and equipping communities and first responders with the tools, training, and support they need to prevent and respond collectively to violence, and to protect those at risk. ⁠Gabby Petito Foundation⁠ ⁠Gabby's Blog⁠ ⁠Get Involved with Gabby Petito Foundation⁠ Thank you for listening and subscribing to the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast. Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are bringing back one of our most educational episodes. It was recorded a few years back soon after we met Nurse Laura Clary at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center. Listen to Ms.Clary and see domestic violence from her point of view as a professional. Few have as many credentials added to their names as this amazing woman. Allow me to introduce you to Laura Clary, BSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A. There is much to be learned from someone who has accumulated such a vast amount of knowledge. Laura has been a registered nurse for 11 years. In 2010, she completed her Forensic Nursing training at Greater Baltimore Medical Center and joined the GBMC team as a Forensic Nurse Examiner. She has been the Clinical Program Manager of the GBMC SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examination) & Domestic Violence Program since 2014. Laura is certified to care for patients who have been victims of sexual assault, rape, child abuse/neglect, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. Laura obtained her National professional certification as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner from the International Association of Forensic Nurses in 2013. Laura is a Board of Nursing approved Forensic Nurse Examiner Instructor and an active member of the International Association of Forensic Nurses, as well as the Maryland Child Abuse Medical Providers (CHAMP), and is Chair of the Baltimore County Sexual Assault Response team. In May of 2017, she was nationally recognized when she was awarded the title of “America’s Most Amazing Nurse” by Prevention Magazine and additionally awarded Baltimore County, Maryland’s Woman of the Year in 2018. She sees the worst that can happen. That's when she brings her best. Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. Bill Mitchell ⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠ NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠[email protected]⁠ The ⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠The Hotline.org ⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠LoveIsRespect⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠RAINN.org⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, you will hear what the world says about WHEN DATING HURTS heading into 2026. An open-ended search underscored what we have been trying to accomplish is being achieved. We could not be happier. You should listen. We gathered a lot of information, then we used a computer-generated voice to read it back for us. In 2026, we look forward to delivering more episodes with survivors describing how they regained their lives. It's our hope new survivor stories will give current victims the tools they need to regain their precious freedom. That is the core mission of WHEN DATING HURTS. Bill Mitchell NOTE: If you are a survivor and want to share your story of abuse on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, please email me: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ The ⁠⁠WHEN DATING HURTS book⁠⁠ (in paperback, eBook, and audiobook) can be found on Amazon. HELPFUL RESOURCES: • National Domestic Violence Hotline – ⁠⁠The Hotline.org ⁠⁠– Call 800-799-SAFE • ⁠⁠LoveIsRespect⁠⁠ – Call 866-331-9474 • RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) – ⁠⁠RAINN.org⁠⁠ – Call 800-656-4673 • SUICIDE HELPLINE: Call 988 Thank you for listening to our WHEN DATING HURTS podcast, Bill Mitchell ⁠⁠WhenDatingHurts.com⁠⁠ DISCLAIMER: The WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast is providing this platform for information to be shared. We do not state with any certainty that anything is true or untrue. Understand that what you hear is the viewpoint of the people sharing. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices