315. DV Survivors Stories Shared on WHEN DATING HURTS

Most of the episodes in this podcast are populated with survivors telling their stories. But there are many more survivors who are not prepared to be interviewed and have their full stories heard around the entire world. For this very special episode, we asked survivors to either record or email us stories. The recorded stories include the actual voice of survivors. If survivors emailed us their stories, we used computer-generated voices to tell their stories for them. If you want to tell your story on WHEN DATING HURTS but do not want to be interviewed, either record and send us your narrative to us–or write your story as an email, and we will take it from there. Survivors need to know they are not alone. Your stories are precious because they bring comfort to others, and they influence victims to seek help in recovering their freedom. Thank you for listening to 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

Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer: This episode contains explicit discussions of heavy drug use, narcissistic manipulation, physical violence, attempted murder, and life-threatening domestic violence. Listener discretion is strongly advised. This is the real-life survivor story that shows dating abuse and domestic violence can happen to anyone — in Ontario, Canada, the U.S., Australia, South America, Europe, or right in your own city. Ruth courageously reveals how a relationship that started with intense love-bombing quickly escalated into isolation, financial traps, physical violence, and an attempt on her life — and the lives of her two young sons. Why this episode is so important: Narcissistic abuse survivor story Domestic violence warning signs Why didn’t she just leave? Dating "red flags" most people miss Real story of narcissistic manipulation and control Critical Warning Signs of Abusive Relationships You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Love bombing & rushing the relationship at the very beginning • Financial traps that create permanent damage • Systematic isolation from friends and family • Escalating control that leads to physical violence and attempted murder From the outside everyone asks the same questions: “Why didn’t you just leave?” “Why were you still seeing this person?” Ruth answers both — honestly, painfully, and with zero sugar-coating. This isn’t theory. This is what actually happens when dating turns dangerous. This powerful 3-part series is essential listening for anyone who dates, has daughters, has sons, or works with survivors of narcissistic abuse and domestic violence. Ruth’s story will help you spot the warning signs before it’s too late. Raw. Real. Life-saving. Thank you, Ruth, for trusting us with your story so others can finally understand the hidden dangers of modern dating and break the cycle of abuse. 🎙 Hosted by Bill Mitchell 📌 When Dating Hurts – Real survivor stories exposing narcissistic abuse, dating violence & domestic violence 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

Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer: This episode contains explicit discussions of heavy drug use, narcissistic manipulation, physical violence, attempted murder, and life-threatening domestic violence. Listener discretion is strongly advised. This is the real-life survivor story that shows dating abuse and domestic violence can happen to anyone — in Ontario, Canada, the U.S., Australia, South America, Europe, or right in your own city. Ruth courageously reveals how a relationship that started with intense love-bombing quickly escalated into isolation, financial traps, physical violence, and an attempt on her life — and the lives of her two young sons. Why this episode is so important: Narcissistic abuse survivor story Domestic violence warning signs Why didn’t she just leave? Dating "red flags" most people miss Real story of narcissistic manipulation and control Critical Warning Signs of Abusive Relationships You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Love bombing & rushing the relationship at the very beginning • Financial traps that create permanent damage • Systematic isolation from friends and family • Escalating control that leads to physical violence and attempted murder From the outside everyone asks the same questions: “Why didn’t you just leave?” “Why were you still seeing this person?” Ruth answers both — honestly, painfully, and with zero sugar-coating. This isn’t theory. This is what actually happens when dating turns dangerous. This powerful 3-part series is essential listening for anyone who dates, has daughters, has sons, or works with survivors of narcissistic abuse and domestic violence. Ruth’s story will help you spot the warning signs before it’s too late. Raw. Real. Life-saving. Thank you, Ruth, for trusting us with your story so others can finally understand the hidden dangers of modern dating and break the cycle of abuse. 🎙 Hosted by Bill Mitchell 📌 When Dating Hurts – Real survivor stories exposing narcissistic abuse, dating violence & domestic violence 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

Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer: This episode contains explicit discussions of heavy drug use, narcissistic manipulation, physical violence, attempted murder, and life-threatening domestic violence. Listener discretion is strongly advised. This is the real-life survivor story that shows dating abuse and domestic violence can happen to anyone — in Ontario, Canada, the U.S., Australia, South America, Europe, or right in your own city. Ruth courageously reveals how a relationship that started with intense love-bombing quickly escalated into isolation, financial traps, physical violence, and an attempt on her life — and the lives of her two young sons. Why this episode is so important: Narcissistic abuse survivor story Domestic violence warning signs Why didn’t she just leave? Dating "red flags" most people miss Real story of narcissistic manipulation and control Critical Warning Signs of Abusive Relationships You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Love bombing & rushing the relationship at the very beginning • Financial traps that create permanent damage • Systematic isolation from friends and family • Escalating control that leads to physical violence and attempted murder From the outside everyone asks the same questions: “Why didn’t you just leave?” “Why were you still seeing this person?” Ruth answers both — honestly, painfully, and with zero sugar-coating. This isn’t theory. This is what actually happens when dating turns dangerous. This powerful 3-part series is essential listening for anyone who dates, has daughters, has sons, or works with survivors of narcissistic abuse and domestic violence. Ruth’s story will help you spot the warning signs before it’s too late. Raw. Real. Life-saving. Thank you, Ruth, for trusting us with your story so others can finally understand the hidden dangers of modern dating and break the cycle of abuse. 🎙 Hosted by Bill Mitchell 📌 When Dating Hurts – Real survivor stories exposing narcissistic abuse, dating violence & domestic violence 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

Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer This episode contains explicit discussions of heavy drug use, narcissistic manipulation, physical violence, and attempted murder. Listener discretion is strongly advised. From the outside, people always ask the same two questions about toxic and abusive relationships: “Why didn’t you just leave?” “Why are you still seeing this person?” This is one of those stories that makes those questions impossible to answer — until you hear Meghan tell it. In this no-holds-barred second part of a two-part survivor series on the When Dating Hurts podcast, Meghan pulls back the curtain on the insidious control, the twisted attraction, and the psychological prison that keeps intelligent, strong women trapped in dangerous dating relationships. You’ll hear how narcissism, substance abuse, and escalating violence can create a nightmare that looks completely different from the inside. Meghan answers the questions everyone wants to ask — honestly, painfully, and without sugarcoating. This is real. This is raw. This is why we do the show. Thank you, Meghan, for trusting us with your story so others can finally understand. Hosted by Bill Mitchell When Dating Hurts – Real survivor stories that expose the hidden dangers of modern dating. 🎧 Listen to Part 2 now 🔗 And subscribe so you don’t miss anything. Thank you for listening to 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

Trigger Warning / Content Disclaimer This episode contains explicit discussions of heavy drug use, narcissistic manipulation, physical violence, and attempted murder. Listener discretion is strongly advised. From the outside, people always ask the same two questions about toxic and abusive relationships: “Why didn’t you just leave?” “Why are you still seeing this person?” This is one of those stories that makes those questions impossible to answer — until you hear Meghan tell it. In this no-holds-barred first part of a two-part survivor series on the When Dating Hurts podcast, Meghan pulls back the curtain on the insidious control, the twisted attraction, and the psychological prison that keeps intelligent, strong women trapped in dangerous dating relationships. You’ll hear how narcissism, substance abuse, and escalating violence can create a nightmare that looks completely different from the inside. Meghan answers the questions everyone wants to ask — honestly, painfully, and without sugarcoating. This is real. This is raw. This is why we do the show. Thank you, Meghan, for trusting us with your story so others can finally understand. Hosted by Bill Mitchell When Dating Hurts – Real survivor stories that expose the hidden dangers of modern dating. 🎧 Listen to Part 1 now 🔗 Part 2 is also available now — subscribe so you don’t miss anything. Thank you for listening to 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

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. In this powerful episode of When Dating Hurts, we interview Abe, now 20 years old. Before diving in, we strongly recommend listening to episodes 310 and 311 where Abe’s mother, Heather, shares her own harrowing story of serial narcissistic abuse, near-fatal domestic violence, and survival at the hands of her ex-husband Rick. Abe was also repeatedly emotionally and physically abused by Rick during those years. Abe bravely opens up about his experience starting at age seven and lasting until he was thirteen. He paints a vivid picture of daily abuse in a home where a child feels powerless — and reveals how his own actions played a key role in helping his mother survive. Heather and Rick were both deep in active addiction throughout this nightmare. While many assume drugs caused the abuse, Heather has always been clear: drugs do not cause narcissistic abuse or domestic violence — they make it far more dangerous and deadly. This episode drives that truth home through a child’s eyes. In this episode you’ll hear: • What it’s really like growing up with narcissistic parents and early childhood trauma • A string of emotionally and physically abusive acts from a violent stepfather • How a young boy became an unlikely hero in his mother’s fight to survive attempted murder • The brutal reality of drug addiction combined with intimate partner violence • A child’s perspective on living in constant fear with no escape It is nothing short of a miracle that both Heather and Abe are alive today. If you or someone you love is trapped in narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, toxic relationships, or addiction-fueled trauma, this story delivers raw hope, validation, and proof that recovery and freedom are possible. Perfect for anyone searching: • Narcissistic abuse recovery stories • Domestic violence survivor interviews • Child survivors of narcissistic abuse • 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 it’s never too late to rebuild. Don’t miss this unforgettable 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 with us, please email me at [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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