If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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What if the thing that makes you lovable is the very thing an abuser uses to trap you?

In this unforgettable episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, I sit down with Leslie Morgan Steiner—author of the New York Times bestseller Crazy Love, TEDx speaker, and former editor at Seventeen to unravel how a smart, successful Harvard grad found herself isolated, gaslit, manipulated, and eventually beaten by the man she thought was her soulmate.

From the subway where they met to the final brutal assault that nearly ended her life, Leslie walks us through how emotional abuse creeps in slowly, how it’s disguised as love, and how even the strongest women can get stuck in the cycle. It wasn’t weakness that kept her there—it was love, loyalty, shame, and a belief that she could save him.

We talk about the psychological warfare behind domestic violence, the myths we’re sold about being “the strong woman behind a troubled man,” and the cultural pressure to nurture—even when it costs us everything.

Leslie’s story is one of survival, awakening, and ultimately reclaiming power. If you’ve ever been told you’re too emotional, too loyal, or too forgiving—this conversation will change the way you see yourself, and the way you define love.

Inside This Episode:

• What love bombing really feels like

• Why even educated, empowered women stay

• How abusers isolate you and erode your reality

• The link between childhood trauma and toxic partners

• The final choice that saved her life-and what it cost

• Why abuse is never about intelligence or self-worth

• How to trust yourself again, even after the unthinkable

About Leslie Morgan Steiner:

https://www.lesliemorgansteiner.com/

Leslie is a bestselling author, speaker, and domestic violence survivor whose TEDx talk “Why Domestic Violence Victims Don’t Leave” has over 17 million views. Her memoir Crazy Love is a raw, intimate account of falling for and escaping a man who nearly killed her. Today, she’s a fierce advocate for survivors, a voice for women who’ve been silenced, and proof that life after abuse is not only possible, it is powerful.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

In this revealing episode of Bitch is a Bad Word, Cory Ann shares her intense story of falling for a charming stranger on a dating app — only to find herself trapped in a toxic relationship marked by manipulation, trauma bonding, and emotional abuse. If you’ve ever wondered how something that starts so hopeful can turn so dark, this episode is for you.

We explore the subtle warning signs of domestic violence, the pressure to say “I love you” too soon, and the dangerous transformation of charm into control. Cory Ann opens up about recognizing abuse, breaking free from trauma bonds, and reclaiming her strength and voice. It’s honest, insightful, and essential listening for anyone navigating or supporting someone through abusive relationships.

You’ll learn:

• How to spot the early red flags in dating and relationships
• The psychology behind manipulation, love bombing, and trauma bonding
• Why victims often feel trapped even when they know something’s wrong
• Practical steps toward healing and empowerment after emotional abuse
• How to rebuild trust and boundaries in yourself and your relationships

This episode is perfect for listeners looking for:

• Awareness about dating abuse and toxic relationships
• Guidance on recognizing and escaping emotional manipulation
• Stories of survival and healing from trauma bonds
• Support for survivors and those who love them
• Empowerment to reclaim your life and voice after abuse

About Cory Ann:

Cory Ann is a courageous survivor and advocate who shares her experience to shed light on the complexities of dating abuse and emotional trauma. Through her story, she inspires others to recognize the signs, break free, and rebuild their lives with resilience and self-worth.

You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

In this episode, Lindsay welcomes back our BFF, Dr. Nadine Macaluso, psychologist, relational trauma expert, and survivor of one of the most infamous coercive control stories of our time. Dr. Nae breaks down trauma bonding in a way that finally makes sense, explains how narcissistic personalities pull you into their cycle, and shares the five non negotiable things you must know if you are dealing with someone who thrives on power, control, and chaos.

From Dirty John to Romeo style coercive control, Dr. Nadine gives a masterclass on the patterns, the psychology, and the science of why smart, capable, high functioning women get trapped in relationships that turn their world upside down. This is the episode every survivor, every bestie, and every woman rebuilding her life needs in her toolkit.

Inside This Episode:

• What trauma bonding actually is

• How narcissistic abuse forms and hooks you

• The five things you must understand to protect yourself

• How coercive control works and why it escalates

• Why survivors stay and what finally breaks the bond

• Nadine’s lived experience and how she rebuilt her life

About Dr Nadine Macaluso:

Dr Nadine Macaluso is a licensed psychologist and renowned expert on relational trauma and narcissistic abuse. Her work helps survivors understand the patterns that held them captive so they can break free, reclaim their identity, and rebuild with clarity and strength.

Visit her at https://drnae.com/ and get her book RUN LIKE AT HELL at https://drnae.com/product/run-like-hell-book-bundle/

-----

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💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

This week on Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Grace Stuart — domestic violence survivor and host of the Why She Stayed podcast — for a raw and powerful conversation about what keeps survivors stuck in abusive relationships and why they stay far longer than they ever imagined. Grace opens up about the night of her strangulation, the silent warning signs that escalate over time, and the devastating aftermath many don’t talk about. We also dig into restraining orders, guilt manipulation, and the dangerous myth that violence always “looks” violent.

This conversation is brutally honest, deeply validating, and an urgent reminder that even “nice” messages can be a violation—and that love should never come with bruises, fear, or fog. Whether you’re a survivor, a loved one, or just trying to understand the complexities of coercive control, this episode will shake your perspective and speak directly to your strength.

In this episode:

• What trauma bonding really looks and feels like
•  How abusers use therapy as a manipulation tactic
•  Why “love bombing” and “nice guy” behavior are often red flags
•  The emotional aftermath of leaving — and how long it really takes to heal
•  Tips for navigating restraining orders and reclaiming your safety
•  The power of naming your story and finding your voice

Plus:

— A breakdown of what emotional abuse sounds like in “nice” language

— Grace’s advice for survivors who feel trapped, confused, or ashamed

— A candid discussion on guilt, grief, and growing into the life you deserve

You don’t have to wait for things to get worse to walk away. You just have to believe you’re worth saving.

Watch the full video on YouTube. Audio available on all podcast platforms.

• If you are interested in coming on Bitch Sesh, please email us at biabw@caliber-studio.com, call or text us at (331) BITCHES, or DM us on our Instagram (instagram.com/bitchisabadwordpod) or TikTok (tiktok.com/@bitchisabadword) pages.

Trigger warning: mentions of strangulation, emotional abuse, coercive control, and post-trauma effects.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

#DomesticViolenceAwareness #WhySheStayed #SurvivorStories #StrangulationAwareness #BitchSeshPodcast #CoerciveControl #LoveBombing #EmpathProblems #BreakTheCycle #DVSurvivor #ProtectYourPeace #TraumaBonding #Gaslighting #PodcastForSurvivors #AbusePrevention #VoiceForTheVoiceless #Bestiegang #Besties #BitchIsABadWordPodcast

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Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

What happens when the system meant to protect you actually works against you?

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Bitch is a Bad Word, I’m joined by Tina Swithin—author, mom, and founder of One Mom’s Battle. Tina’s story started in the trenches of a brutal custody battle with a narcissistic ex, where she faced emotional abuse and a family court system that failed her. But she didn’t just survive—she turned her pain into a movement helping thousands of women find their voice and fight back.

Together, we unpack the realities of narcissistic abuse, the emotional and legal trauma of family court battles, and how one woman is changing the narrative for moms everywhere.

Whether you’re currently navigating abuse, healing from it, or standing beside someone who is—this episode is a must-listen.

Inside This Episode:

• The truth about narcissistic abuse and emotional manipulation
• Why family court can be one of the most dangerous places for survivors
• How to reclaim your voice and build a support system
• Tina’s mission to change the broken system, one mom at a time

You are not alone. Your pain is valid. And your voice matters. We've got your back, Besties!

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

TINA SWITHIN

VISIT Tina: www.onemomsbattle.com

FOLLOW Tina Instagram TikTok

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

In this powerful episode of Bitch is a Bad Word, Azadeh dives into the dark reality of emotional addiction, toxic relationships, and trauma bonding. If you've ever felt stuck in a love that hurts more than it heals, this one’s for you.

We’re talking drug dens, manipulation, heartbreak, and the dangerous high of trauma-bonded love. Azadeh opens up about navigating emotional abuse, sobriety, codependency, and why your heart keeps going back to what nearly broke you. It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s everything you need to hear to break free.

You’ll learn:

• What emotional addiction really is — and how it traps you like a drug
• Signs of trauma bonds and toxic attachment styles
• The psychology behind love bombing and emotional manipulation
• Why toxic love is so hard to leave (even when you know better)
• How to begin healing from emotionally abusive relationships

This episode is perfect for listeners looking for:

• Emotional addiction recovery
• Breaking trauma bonds
• Healing from toxic relationships
• Stories about emotional abuse & codependency
• Empowerment after abuse
• About Azadeh:
• Azadeh is a fierce survivor, advocate, and host of the Rise and Rebuild podcast. She shares her story to expose the hidden addiction of toxic love and empower others to heal, break cycles, and rebuild their lives with strength and self-worth.

Visit Azadeh @ https://finallyfreelife.com/ for coaching and purchasing her numerous books!

You are not alone. You’re not crazy. And no—you’re not a bitch for doing what you need to do to be safe. We've got your back, Besties!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

In this powerful episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, host Lindsay sits down with Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and author Carla Litto to unpack the psychology behind narcissistic and emotionally abusive relationships.

Carla, author of Outsmarting Egomaniacs: How to Respond to Narcissists and Master Manipulators, explains how Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) can show up in intimate relationships — and what survivors can do to protect themselves.

With compassion and clinical expertise, Carla breaks down the red flags of manipulation, gaslighting, trauma bonding, and coercive control, offering actionable tools to help survivors regain clarity, confidence, and control.

🎙️ In this episode, we cover:

• How BPD and NPD appear in toxic or abusive relationships
• Understanding emotional dysregulation, projection, and trauma bonding
• Practical ways to recognize and respond to manipulation and gaslighting
• Why survivors second-guess themselves — and how to rebuild self-trust
• Key insights from Outsmarting Egomaniacs by Carla Litto

Whether you're recovering from narcissistic abuse or supporting someone who is, this episode will give you the knowledge and power to move forward.

• #NarcissisticAbuse #EmotionalAbuseRecovery #BPDRelationships #NPD #Gaslighting #TraumaBonding #CoerciveControl #OutsmartingEgomaniacs #CarlaLitto #BitchIsABadWordPodcast

Visit Carla's website

Purchase Carla's book, Outsmarting Egomaniacs

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

What if your life looked picture-perfect—but behind closed doors, it was anything but?

In this deeply honest episode of Bitch Sesh, we’re joined by Heather from Hello Divorce, who discovered Bitch Is a Bad Word after listening to the When Dating Hurts podcast and feeling an urgent pull to reach out. Her story—and the story of a friend living through hidden abuse—reminds us that emotional abuse doesn’t always look like abuse at first… and that leaving safely is never as simple as it sounds.

Together, we break down what financial abuse actually looks like, why couple’s therapy with an abuser is a huge red flag, and how Hello Divorce is helping women reclaim their power—one plan, one payment, one peaceful breath at a time.

Whether you’re living it, recovering from it, or trying to support someone else through it—this episode is for you.

 Inside This Episode:

• Why “just leave” isn’t realistic or safe advice
• The reality of financial abuse & post-separation control
• What not to do in therapy with a manipulative partner
• Why it’s okay—and smart—to leave via text or email
• The tools Hello Divorce offers for building a safe exit plan

You are not alone. You’re not crazy. And no—you’re not a bitch for doing what you need to do to be safe. We've got your back, Besties!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

What if the first person you told about your abuse… wasn’t a person at all?

In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lindsay sits down with Anne Wintemute, the CEO and founder of Aimee Says, an AI-powered digital companion designed to support people experiencing domestic violence, coercive control, emotional abuse, and toxic relationships.

Aimee isn’t a chatbot or a therapist. She’s something new: a judgment-free, always-available guide that helps you figure out if what you’re experiencing is abuse and what to do next with your Textie From The Extie!

Inside This Episode

• How technology can safely support survivors who aren’t ready to reach out for help

• Why venting to Aimee can be life-changing when you’re not free to share or when your circle doesn’t understand abuse

• The moment Anne realized AI could be used for healing, not harm

• How to recognize patterns of control before they escalate

• The power of turning pain into purpose

Why It Matters

Millions of women suffer in silence because they don’t know where to start or who to trust. Aimee Says is helping survivors take their first step privately, safely, and without shame.

You are not alone. And now, you’ll never have to be. We've got your back, Bestie!

Vist Aimee Says at aimeesays.com

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of domestic abuse, coercive control, and emotional trauma. Please take care while listening.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

In this unforgettable Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Anna, as a young wife who found herself trapped inside her abusive husband’s family home in Dubai. She was isolated, monitored, and terrified to tell anyone what was happening behind closed doors. Reporting the abuse felt impossible. Leaving felt deadly.

With nothing but blind faith, a stranger who became an angel, and strength she did not know she had, Anna made a decision no woman should ever have to make. She grabbed a burner phone, walked into the unknown, and boarded a plane to save her own life.

What followed was three years living on the run. Three years hiding, surviving, and rebuilding her identity in the shadows. Three years before she finally returned home safely.

This episode is gripping, brave, and one of the most shocking survival stories ever shared on this show. It is a testament to the power of instinct, sisterhood, and the moment a woman decides she will be her own hero in her own story.

Inside This Episode:

• What life inside an abusive family system in Dubai truly looks like

• The terror of being watched, controlled, and completely kept

• How a single moment of faith changed everything

• What it takes to run and stay alive with no safety net

• How Anna rebuilt herself after three years on the lamb

• Why leaving is the most dangerous and courageous choice a survivor can make

To learn more about Anna:

https://www.healingandcptsd.com/anna

https://www.oneofthe8.com/post/anna-marie-lopes-kindness-where-you-least-expect-it

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

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The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

What happens when family trauma fuels addiction—and how do you break free?

In this raw episode of Bitch Is A Bad Word, We're joined by Josh Connelly—a survivor of toxic parents, substance abuse, and emotional trauma who found sobriety and healing. Josh opens up about growing up with toxic family dynamics, battling addiction, and the difficult path to recovery and emotional freedom. Together, we dive deep into recognizing toxic parents, overcoming substance abuse triggered by family pain, and building a new life of hope and resilience.

If you’re struggling with toxic family relationships, addiction, or healing from trauma—or supporting someone who is—this episode offers powerful insights and encouragement.

Inside This Episode:

• How toxic parents and family trauma contribute to substance abuse
• Signs of emotional abuse and toxic family dynamics
• Josh’s journey from addiction to sobriety and healing
• Practical steps for setting boundaries and rebuilding your life
• Finding hope and support on the path to recovery

About Josh Connelly:

Josh is an advocate for mental health, addiction recovery, and healing from toxic family cycles. He shares his story to empower others facing similar battles.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

Kalen’s story began when she was only 17. What she thought was the drama of love quickly became a cycle of emotional and physical abuse. For years, she was told she was crazy, too sensitive, too much. She believed it. Behind closed doors, she lived with an extreme personality who used manipulation, fear, and control to keep her questioning her own mind.

In this episode of Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Kalen to explore how young love can turn into domination, how gaslighting rewrites reality, and how long-term abuse leaves scars that take years to understand. This conversation is a raw reminder that real love is not chaos or pain, and that healing begins the moment you stop mistaking cruelty for passion.

Inside This Episode

• How abuse can start young and feel like “drama” instead of danger

• The cycle of gaslighting and control in extreme personalities

• When emotional abuse escalates into physical violence

• The moment Kalan realized “crazy” wasn’t her, it was him

• Rebuilding after years of abuse, manipulation, fear, and shame

About Kalen

Kalen is a survivor and advocate who endured years of emotional and physical abuse beginning at 17. Today she uses her experience to help other women recognize the red flags, trust their intuition, and know that love should never hurt.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

In this special episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lindsay sits down inside the National Domestic Violence Hotline headquarters with Katie Ray-Jones, the organization’s badass CEO and lifelong advocate for survivors. Together, they pull back the curtain on what really happens when someone calls for help.

From personal survivor stories to the Power and Control Wheel, tech abuse, and teen dating violence, this episode reveals the realities of modern abuse and the lifesaving work happening behind the scenes. Lindsay also shares her emotional experience being invited to serve as an “Advocate for the Day,” listening in on live calls and witnessing firsthand the compassion and strength of those answering up to 3,000 calls every single day.

Inside This Episode:

• What really happens behind the scenes at the National Domestic Violence Hotline

• The truth about tech abuse and digital coercion in modern relationships

• How the Power and Control Wheel helps survivors recognize and name abuse

• The rise of teen dating violence and how to stop it early

• Lindsay’s firsthand experience listening in on real hotline calls

Why This Episode Matters:

Because every call is a cry for freedom and every answer is a lifeline.

About the Guest:

Katie Ray-Jones is the CEO of The National Domestic Violence Hotline, the nation’s leading resource for survivors of abuse. Under her leadership, the Hotline has expanded its services, implemented groundbreaking safety technology, and supported millions of callers nationwide.

1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

www.thehotline.org

https://www.instagram.com/ndvhofficial/

Follow & Connect:

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube

💌 Follow @bitchisabadwordpodcast for updates, clips, and behind-the-scenes moments

💜 Need support? Visit thehotline.org or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

TRIGGER WARNING: Please be advised that this episode contains discussions of suicide, suicidal ideation, and mental health struggles. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support. Help is available. You can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.

In this powerful episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word's Bitch Sesh, we sit down with Jenn Higgins, the visionary founder behind Anyways Socks, a company born out of resilience, humor, and healing. Jenn opens up about surviving domestic abuse, finding her voice, and creating a brand that celebrates individuality and strength — anyway you are.

We dive into:

• Jenn’s journey through survival and entrepreneurship
• How she turned pain into purpose with Anyways Socks
• The role of creativity and humor in the healing process
• Why building a business as a survivor is an act of resistance
• Her message for anyone navigating abuse or identity rediscovery

This candid Bitch Sesh isn’t just about socks — it’s about survival, self-expression, and socking it to domestic abuse!

Whether you're a survivor, creator, advocate, or simply love a good comeback story, this episode is for you.

Support and Visit ANYWAY SOCKS

---

If you are interested in coming on Bitch Sesh, please email us at biabw@caliber-studio.com, call or text us at (331) BITCHES, or DM us on our Instagram (instagram.com/bitchisabadwordpod) or TikTok (tiktok.com/@bitchisabadword) pages.

If you like, please leave us a review and subscribe to our channel!

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

“The only time you knew your worth as a child was when you were solving a tyrant’s problem.” Richard Grannon

Meet Richard Grannon, trauma specialist, author of A Cult of One, and the internet’s most brutally honest voice on narcissistic abuse and emotional recovery. In this episode of B!tch Is A Bad Word, Lindsay and Richard go deep on how narcissistic parents and partners shape our sense of self, why chaos can feel like love, and what it takes to finally break free from toxic patterns.

Because healing isn’t just about leaving, it’s about understanding why you stayed.

Inside this episode

• The psychological imprint of narcissistic parenting and how it shapes adult relationships
• Why we confuse love with control and trauma with connection
• Hyper-fixation, adrenaline addiction, and why “ADHD” might actually be trauma
• The cult of toxic relationships and why we worship people who hurt us
• Co-creation vs. victimhood and how to reclaim power without shame
• Healing strategies to rewire your nervous system and rediscover your true self

About Richard Grannon

https://www.youtube.com/@RICHARDGRANNON

https://www.richardgrannon.com/

Richard Grannon is a psychotherapist, speaker, and creator of The Spartan Life Coach. Known for blending philosophy, psychology, and practical tools for emotional recovery, his work has helped millions break free from narcissistic abuse and rebuild with clarity and self-respect.

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The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

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If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

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Follow & Connect

Subscribe, rate, and review Bitch Is A Bad Word to help more survivors find us!

Share this episode with a bestie stuck in the “I can fix him” cycle.

Join the Bestie Gang for tools, healing resources, and community (links in show notes)

We've Got Your Back, Besties!

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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Bitch Sesh are up-close & personal conversations with current victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse and Domestic Violence sharing their stories.

In this compelling inaugural episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word: "Bitch Sesh", Lindsay engages in a candid conversation with "G", a courageous wife and mother currently navigating the complexities of a verbally abusive relationship characterized by gaslighting and coercive control. "G" reached out feeling isolated, seeking a platform to share her story—a narrative that resonates with many yet often remains unheard. For security, we do not feature "G"'s image.

This episode delves into:

- The insidious nature of gaslighting and its impact on self-perception

- Understanding coercive control and its manifestations in intimate relationships

- The emotional toll of verbal abuse and strategies for coping

- Recognizing the signs of emotional manipulation and reclaiming autonomy

- The importance of sharing survivor stories to foster awareness and support

Whether you're currently in a challenging relationship, supporting someone who is, or aiming to understand the dynamics of emotional abuse better, "G"'s story offers valuable insights and hope.

If you are interested in coming on Bitch Sesh, please email us at biabw@caliber-studio.com, call or text us at (331) BITCHES, or DM us on our Instagram (instagram.com/bitchisabadwordpod) or TikTok (tiktok.com/@bitchisabadword) pages.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

If you like, please leave us a review and subscribe to our channel!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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This week on Bitch Is a Bad Word, actress, singer, author, and podcaster Bethany Joy Lenz joins us for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation about surviving a cult — all while starring on one of TV’s most iconic teen dramas, One Tree Hill.

Bethany opens up about her upcoming memoir, her journey of breaking free from coercive control, and how reclaiming her faith helped her heal from spiritual abuse and toxic relationships. She shares how being in the public eye shaped her recovery and how she's using her platform to empower others.

🎙️ In this episode:

• What it was like to be in a cult while starring on a cult-favorite TV show
• Escaping spiritual manipulation and finding her own truth
• Understanding the difference between intuition and trauma responses
• Healing from abusive relationships and psychological control
• Why storytelling and visibility matter in recovery

Whether you're a lifelong One Tree Hill fan, a survivor of spiritual or emotional abuse, or someone seeking truth and healing, Bethany’s story will resonate deeply.

#BethanyJoyLenz #SurvivingACult #CoerciveControl #SpiritualAbuse #OneTreeHill #TraumaHealing #ToxicRelationships #Memoir2025 #BitchIsABadWordPodcast

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

Visit Joy's linktr.ee/bethanyjoylenz to PURCHASE:

- Joy's book Dinner For Vampires: Life On A Cult TV Show (While In An Actual Cult)

- Listen to Joy on the ONE TREE HILL podcast Dramaqueens

- Subscribe to Joy's print magazine MODERN VINTAGE

- And so much more!

***Give yourself the ultimate in sleep comfort with a 40% Discount from Cozy Earth

Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code BESTIES for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and

more. And if you get a post-purchase survey, let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.

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Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains conversations regarding self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and suicide.

The Trauma Bond. It's hard to see the forest for the trees when you're in the middle of a constant emotional onslaught. That is Quinn's story, our guest on today's Bitch Is A Bad Word: Bitch Sesh. Like many of us, Quinn didn't know she was in an abusive marriage, being torn in so many directions she didn't know what was up until after the divorce, when she could put some distance between she and her ex, with reflection.

Quinn's story is important for all of us because when you're standing in the middle of a battlefield, being assaulted constantly on all sides, it's almost impossible to tell where you stand and what's really going on. However, if you're able to pull yourself out, place yourself on a hill above the fray, you can see what's really happening below. And that is what we want to help you recognize if you are or find yourself in Quinn's relationship.

All abusers use different tactics to control and Quinn's ex used emotional manipulation.  He would use tactics to draw her in, such as love bombing, "randomly" bumping into her (when he was really stalking), and coming up with excuses to see her when separated ("I'm dropping off food for you and the kids"), that would become prolonged engagements that evolved into excuses why he shouldn't or couldn't leave. And when Quinn pushed him away too hard, her ex would become violent with financial threats, harm to her and the kids, and suicide. It was a constant emotional rollercoaster, meant to draw her in and keep her attached to him with ebbs and flows of kindness and love that turned into threats, coercion, and control, and back again.

Listening to Quinn's story helps us identify these tactics used in our own relationships, either ones used against us or ones we may use ourselves, so when we're in the thick of it, that memory of listening to her story will cause that lightbulb go off in our heads and we realize what's really going on, helping us break the cycle of domestic abuse and domestic violence.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

ABOUT QUINN

Quinn Padilla is a licensed therapist, abuse recovery coach, and mother of three who brings both her personal journey as an abuse survivor and her professional expertise to the work she does. Through her practice, she helps women heal from abuse and post-separation abuse, blending education with practical tools for recovery. Quinn also shares accessible guidance and support through Instagram and TikTok as @itsquinnpadilla, reaching women across the world with resources to help them feel seen and empowered. She is the creator of Breaking the Trauma Bond, a course designed to help women understand the cycle of abuse, regulate their nervous systems, and break free from trauma bonds. Learn more about her course through her bio on Instagram or to work with her one on one visit www.itsquinnpadilla.com. 

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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What is a narcissist—really? How do they act? How do they trap you? And how do you begin to break free once you realize the truth?

In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, therapist and narcissistic abuse expert Vanessa Reiser breaks it down: what narcissism looks like, why it’s so confusing at first, and how to spot the patterns before it's too late.

Vanessa’s knowledge isn’t just clinical—it’s personal. After surviving her own relationship with a narcissist, she committed her life to helping others recognize the red flags she once missed.

Whether you're asking:

“Am I dating a narcissist?”

“Why do I feel crazy in this relationship?”

“What is narcissistic abuse?”

“Why can’t I leave even though I’m unhappy?”

This episode is for you.

⚠️ Trigger Warning:

Includes personal stories and professional insight on narcissistic abuse, gaslighting, emotional manipulation, love bombing, and trauma bonding.

📞 If you or someone you know is in danger, call The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

ABOUT Vanessa Reiser:

Instagram: Vanessa Reiser’s IG - @vanessareiserlcsw

Twitter: Vanessa Reiser’s TW - @vprockland

Website: https://tellatherapist.net/

Guest Bio:

Vanessa Reiser is a mother, entrepreneur, life coach, advocate, and a ground breaking psychotherapist specializing in narcissistic abuse using Therapist Self-Disclosure (TSD); a form of therapy where therapist statements are shared that reveal something personal about the therapist, when an opportunity to create validation exists. Vanessa is licensed in NY, NJ, MA & FL and made international headlines when she ran the entire state of New York in a wedding dress to raise awareness for narcissistic abuse in May 2021. Her days are spent supporting those traumatized by this insidious form of domestic violence.

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JOIN the BIABW PATREON and DISCORD SERVER where we're building our Bestie community! On Discord, we've created a safe space where you can connect anonymously with others and share. And on Patreon, I "spill the tea" all week long as well as have all the episodes available ad-free! Join at patreon.com/BitchIsABadWord

STAY UPDATED & SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER:

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Connect with Us:

📧 Email: biabw@caliber-studio.com

📱 Call or Text: (331) BITCHES

📸 Instagram: @bitchisabadwordpod

🎵 TikTok: @bitchisabadword

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

- Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bitch-is-a-bad-word/id1780948251

- Spotify Podcasts: open.spotify.com/show/3frZ12xmxKo0lCa8eIGCDD

- Website: caliber-studio.com/bitchisabadword

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word's Bitch Sesh, Stephanie Strickland shares a story so many women will recognize—even if they don’t yet have the words for it.

She thought she had the life she wanted: a husband, a home, a child. But behind closed doors, things weren’t adding up. Her husband controlled the money, twisted the truth, and left her questioning her own reality. There were no bruises. But there was damage.

Stephanie takes us through the confusing fog of emotional manipulation, financial control, betrayal, and isolation. She opens up about the terrifying moment she realized she was not safe, and how long it took her to finally break free.

If you’ve ever felt like something was wrong but couldn’t quite explain it—this episode is for you.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: Topics include emotional manipulation, control, trauma bonds, heartbreak, and toxic relationship dynamics.

📞 If you or someone you know is in danger, call The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

Stephanie Strickland is a Dallas, Texas native, an award-winning and best-selling author, and a sought-after motivational speaker. Stephanie is a survivor of domestic violence who passionately spends her time advocating for victims and survivors of abuse. When she is not busy writing award winning books, and appearing on podcasts, she is sharing her inspiring story with others at speaking events.

Stephanie believes that by openly sharing her life, removing her mask, and walking in her truth Stephanie is showing women you don’t have to live in the shame of your past. Through her encouraging words Stephanie is showing us how to overcome our insecurities, our fears and seek the life God has promised us. She continuously demonstrates how living a life with self-acceptance, patience and faith can lead to a life that is thriving and fulfilling.

Stephanie is a God believer and is highly active in her church, where she is a facilitator over a women’s class, and is a part of many other ministries. To connect with Stephanie please see the links below:

www.stephaniedstrickland.com

Instagram - @iamsdstrickland

Facebook - @StephanieDStrick

WHAT YOU'LL HEAR

- The subtle signs that something wasn’t right

- How abusers weaponize religion and family expectations

- What it feels like to question your own memory

- Financial control and secret spending

- How to finally listen to your gut—and act on it

- The truth about abuse that leaves no physical scars

Stephanie’s story is one of heartbreak, resilience, and waking up to the truth.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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In this powerful episode of B!tch is a Bad Word, host Lindsay sits down with Dr. Christine Cocchiola—researcher, advocate, and expert in coercive control—to expose the form of domestic abuse that leaves no bruises but devastates lives. Together, they unpack how coercive control erodes autonomy, uses children as weapons, and creates “death by a thousand paper cuts” for survivors.

Dr. Cocchiola shares insights from decades of research and lived experience, explaining why survivors often blame themselves, how abusers manipulate family court and parenting, and what protective parents can do to help their children heal. From understanding trauma bonds to recognizing reactive abuse, this conversation offers validation, clarity, and practical tools for anyone trapped in the cycle of psychological control.

About Dr. Christine Cocchiola:

Dr. Christine M. Cocchiola, DSW, LCSW is a Coercive Control Educator, Researcher & Survivor. She is a college professor teaching social work for the last 20 years and a social justice advocate for a local domestic violence agency, since the age of 19. Her expertise is in the areas of coercive control and the traumatic experiences of adult and child victims, diligently supporting these vulnerable populations. Dr. C., a Founding Member of the International Coercive Control Conference and a Board Member of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, has supported codifying coercive control, writing numerous policy briefs supporting these efforts.

Guest Information:

Website - https://coercivecontrolconsulting.com/

Instagram - @dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol

Twitter - @coercivecontrol

If you’ve ever questioned whether words, manipulation, and control “count” as abuse, this episode is your answer. You’re not crazy—and you’re not alone.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

This episode is for anyone who has asked:

- signs of a controlling relationship

- how to know if my relationship is abusive

- emotional abuse in relationships

- when love feels like control

- why does my partner put me down

- gaslighting and manipulation in relationships

- trauma bonding explained

- am I the problem in my relationship

- co-parenting with a toxic ex

- raising kids with an abusive partner

- why leaving an abuser is so hard

- what is coercive control in relationships (paired with plain terms)

- feeling broken but no bruises

- how to heal from an abusive relationship

- my partner calls me names — is it abuse?

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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What happens when the man who once felt like home becomes the reason you fear for your safety?

In this gripping episode of Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Nelsy, a veteran, mother, and survivor of a long-term abusive relationship that began with a single slap and spiraled into years of coercive control. It started in the barracks, with charm, attention, and tenderness… and it ended with holes in the walls, shattered belongings, and a system that protected him over her.

We talk about what it means to report abuse in the military, how trauma bonds are formed, and the emotional whiplash of being gaslit by someone who swears they love you. Nelsy’s story is raw, devastating, and all too common and her voice is a rallying cry for women who’ve been told to stay silent.

Inside This Episode:

• What really happens when you report a Marine for abuse
• How the military enables abusers behind closed doors
• Why women stay-even after the first slap
• The terrifying escalation during pregnancy and motherhood
• What gaslighting and coercive control actually sound like
• The path to reclaiming your voice, your body, and your life

About Nelsy:

Nelsy is a veteran, advocate, and survivor who now speaks openly about domestic violence and military silence. Her courage in telling the truth is a gift and a warning to every woman who’s ever second-guessed her gut.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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From Survivor to Lawyer to Family Court Judge - no one knows the ins and outs of the Family Court system than Michele Locke. Too often, survivors are told by their attorneys to keep quiet about the abuse they suffered and that it turns off the judge. And too often, survivors capitulate to manipulative maneuvers their abusers thrust on them, continuing the cycle of abuse in court.

Michele - a former Judge turned podcaster - discusses how to find the right attorney who understands YOU and what YOU'VE gone through and will navigate the arcane family law legal system for you. You need to find someone who understands what you've been through, is empathic to your experiences, and knows how to navigate the family court system so you don't compromise.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

About Michele

PODCAST: LOVELUSTLAW

MICHELE LOCKE is a former Associate Court Judge and experienced family law attorney with a mission to demystify the court system and make it accessible and equitable for all-regardless of background or socioeconomic status. With a 23-year legacy and having presided over 5,000 cases, Michele is a powerful voice for families, survivors of domestic violence, and marginalized communities.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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Unfortunately, and fortunately for the Bestie Gang listening, we are going to teach you some things in this episode that I desperately wish I had known sooner. That is the whole point of this show and Amy’s work: you cannot understand their behavior because you would never do it. You keep asking, “What is the point? Why would you do this? Why can’t you just be decent?” and none of it makes sense because you are not wired like someone who enjoys creating the most unsafe, emotionally brutal reality for the mother of their children.

In this Bitch Sesh with therapist and narc-recovery expert Amy Watkins, LPC, we break down the post-separation mindf*ck, the breadcrumbs of decency, the mask they wear for the new supply, the way they tell the next one you are crazy while she drinks the Kool-Aid, and how you spiral back into self-doubt, body shame, and “am I the problem?” loops.

We talk about the post-separation apocalypse and how to protect your peace when your ex wakes up every day seemingly asking, “How can I f*ck with her today?”

Trigger Warning for SA survivors: We also go deep into Lindsay's own story, including SA I did not recognize as SA at the time, caretaking after harm, walking on eggshells in every area of life, and shrinking my needs until I stopped asking for anything because everything I loved was eventually broken or weaponized against me.

In this episode, we get into:

• Post-separation abuse and why you do not even know you are in it until you are out
• How abusers flip the script: “you are crazy, you are a bitch” to the new partner
• Gaslighting, confusion, and how constant reality-twisting can genuinely make you feel like you are going insane
• Why you keep asking “Am I the problem?” after behaving in ways you do not even recognize
• Sex as a way to stay out of trouble, sexual coercion in marriage or relationships, and why that is not a healthy dynamic
• Fear as your first language: rehearsing basic needs, being terrified to ask for anything, and how that keeps you stuck
• How unhealed childhood trauma makes toxic love feel like home

For more on Amy Watkins, visit her at https://www.amywatkinsstudio.com/

We've got your back, Besties.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

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💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

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We chose this episode as January is National Stalking Awareness Month (NSAM), an annual call to action to recognize and respond to the serious crime of stalking. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

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When someone you love is harmed in an abusive relationship, your world changes forever. In this deeply emotional episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, we sit down with Bill Mitchell—author, speaker, and host of the When Dating Hurts podcast—who shares the tragic story behind the murder of his daughter Kristin, just three weeks after graduating college.

Twenty days before her death, Kristin walked across the stage at Saint Joseph’s University. Her family was there. Her boyfriend was there too—someone they’d never met before. Three weeks later, he pled guilty to third-degree murder.

That moment launched Bill into a life of advocacy, education, and prevention, helping parents, teens, and survivors recognize the red flags of relationship violence, including coercive control, emotional abuse, and escalating patterns of toxic behavior.

🎙️ In this episode, we explore:

• The true story that ignited a national awareness movement
• How dating violence and coercive control often begin subtly
• Common emotional abuse red flags young people overlook
• What parents can do to talk to their kids about healthy vs. harmful love
• Ways survivors and communities can take action to protect others

Whether you’re a survivor, a parent, or someone who wants to prevent intimate partner violence, this episode is a powerful call to trust your gut, speak up, and stay aware.

WHEN DATING HURTS

LISTEN to the Podcast

PURCHASE the Book

You’re not alone. We’ve got your back.

#WhenDatingHurts #BillMitchell #RelationshipViolence #DatingAbuseAwareness #CoerciveControl #EmotionalAbuse #KristinMitchell #HealthyRelationships #IntimatePartnerViolence #BitchIsABadWordPodcast

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

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What happens when a survivor breaks free from strangulation, abuse, and a broken system — and finds her voice to fight back?

In this honest and gripping episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lindsay sits down with Staci, a survivor of domestic violence and strangulation by a repeat offender still walking free. Staci shares her courageous journey through trauma, the failures of the justice system, and how speaking out can save lives and ignite change.

They dive into the dangerous cycle of abuse, trauma bonding, and the urgent need to believe survivors the first time. This conversation is essential for anyone impacted by abuse or seeking to support those fighting to reclaim their power.

Inside This Episode:

• The hidden dangers and devastating effects of strangulation in domestic abuse
• How repeat offenders manipulate court systems to continue their abuse
• Understanding trauma bonding and why survivors sometimes doubt themselves
• The crucial role of breaking silence in survivor healing and community safety
• Peer support as a powerful tool beyond therapy
• The story behind Open Voices, a peer support app born from lived experience
• Steps survivors can take to protect themselves and rebuild their lives

About Stacy:

Staci is a brave domestic violence survivor and advocate who co-founded Open Voices, a peer support app designed to help survivors and others find connection and healing through shared experience.

Bestie Freebie:

Discover Open Voices on the App Store — a safe space for peer support and real conversations about domestic violence, mental health, and more. Visit https://openvoices.co and follow Stacy on Instagram @the.stacii.w for inspiration and updates.

We’ve got your back, Bestie. Your voice matters.

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What really happens when you try couples therapy with a narcissist — and why it can make things worse? If you're in couples counseling, you NEED to listen to this episode!

In this unfiltered conversation, Dr. Jamie Zuckerman (“Dr. Z”), a nationally recognized psychologist and narcissistic abuse expert, joins Lindsay to break down how abusers use therapy, gift-giving, and everyday moments to keep control. She explains coercive control in plain language, how abuse escalates over time, and why leaving is the most dangerous (but most empowering) step.

If you’ve ever searched “Why does my partner track me?” “Is couples therapy safe with an abusive partner?” or “How do I plan my exit without them knowing?” — this episode gives you real-world strategies to protect yourself.

Inside This Episode:

- Why therapy with a narcissist often backfires

- How gift-giving and “grand gestures” become tools for control

- What coercive control really means and how to spot it

- Why abuse escalates when you stop reacting

- The ultimate goal of a narcissistic abuser (it’s darker than you think)

- Dr. Z’s practical, step-by-step safety plan for leaving safely

Dr. Z also shares the Bestie Toolkit — small, daily actions to reclaim your clarity, document abuse patterns, and protect your sanity while planning your escape.

Visit Dr. Z for coaching at https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ and check out her podcast NEXT UP: NARCISSISM WITH DR. Z on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

📞 If you need immediate help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

This podcast is for you if you're asking questions such as:

- therapy with a narcissist

- is couples therapy safe with abusive partner

- coercive control examples

- why does my partner track me

- gift giving from narcissist

- how to leave an abusive relationship safely

- narcissist exit strategy

- documenting abuse for court

#TherapyWithANarcissist #CoerciveControl #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #LeavingAnAbuser #SafetyPlanning #DocumentingAbuse #BreakTheTraumaBond #GaslightingAwareness #ToxicRelationshipHelp #SurvivorStrong #domesticabuseawareness

B!tch Is A Bad Word: A Podcast On Domestic Abuse is a podcast about identifying and navigating your way through and out of Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse, hosted by a survivor of Domestic Abuse.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

What if your body knew the truth before your brain could catch up?

In this riveting episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, I sit down with Kelly Sutliff, a trauma-informed psychotherapist, domestic abuse survivor, and founder of Kelly’s Canines—a nonprofit providing canine support for survivors of trauma. Despite her professional training, Kelly found herself entangled in a high-speed relationship with a pathological abuser who manipulated, gaslit, drugged and assaulted her behind closed doors.

Here’s the most chilling part: her abuser once told her she’d “end up on TV”—for his murder, the one he planned to stage and blame on her. But the plot twist? She ended up on TV for surviving his abuse. Kelly’s story was later featured on the true crime docuseries Toxic: Secrets Behind the Mask, exposing the calculated manipulation, coercion, and psychological warfare she endured.

We unpack what it means when your intuition speaks, why smart and strong women get targeted, and how shame keeps us stuck in silence. Kelly’s story is raw, brave, and necessary—and it’s going to change the way you think about trauma, red flags, and trusting your gut.

Inside This Episode:

• The difference between red flags and pink flags—and why they matter

• How abusers fast-track relationships to gain control

• Why even trained professionals can fall for manipulators

• What it means to be love-bombed, gaslit, and stalked

• How to break free, especially when kids are involved

• Why trauma-informed therapy is non-negotiable for real healing

About Kelly Sutliff:

Kelly is a licensed psychotherapist, survivor, and co-founder of Kelly’s Canines, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing trauma-informed canine companionship to abuse survivors. She brings deep clinical knowledge, lived experience, and fierce compassion to every conversation—especially this one.

Visit Kelly at www.kellysutlifflpc.com

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties!

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Reality isn’t always what it seems…. it’s what you make it.

PREORDER "THE LIGHTRUNNER" , Ally Walker’s (SONS OF ANARCHY) debut thriller!!! Comes out on Amazon and Barnes and Noble June 6th but is Available for preorder NOW! Go to www.allywalkerofficial.com for more info.

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The holidays and post-holidays can be a tricky period of time so we are wishing everyone a safe holiday season. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

What happens when the narcissist loses control of you and starts targeting your kids instead?

In this raw and revealing episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lindsay sits down with high-conflict divorce strategist Victoria McCooey, who shares what every woman needs to know before leaving a narcissistic or abusive partner and what’s waiting on the other side when you do it with strategy and power.

Victoria explains how narcissists often shift their abuse to the children once they can no longer manipulate their partner, and how you can become the safe, steady place your child needs when the gaslighting turns on them. Whether you’re preparing to leave, knee-deep in a court battle, or struggling to co-parent with someone hellbent on control, this episode is your map, your mirror, and your megaphone.

Inside This Episode:

• What actually happens when you finally decide to leave
• How to outsmart a narcissist without sinking to their level
• Why abuse often escalates when you’re pregnant or financially vulnerable
• The heartbreaking moment a narcissist starts targeting the kids
• How to protect your child emotionally when the manipulation flips on them
• The top 5 tactics narcissists use during divorce and how to prepare for them
• Why leaving a narcissist is like launching a business and how to lead it like a CEO
• A free resource from Victoria: Five Things Every Woman Should Know Before Divorcing a Narcissist

About Victoria:

Victoria McCooey is a high-conflict divorce coach, narcissist abuse expert, and founder of Divorce Allies, a powerful support platform helping women navigate toxic relationships and emerge with clarity, confidence, and community. She offers one-on-one coaching, an expert-led membership program, and dozens of resources to help you leave smart and stay strong.

Bestie Freebie:

Download Victoria’s essential guide: Five Things Every Woman Should Know Before Divorcing a Narcissist, plus access support calls, expert workshops, and more at https://www.victoriamccooey.com/ and https://www.thedivorceallies.com/

We’ve got your back, Bestie. And your exit plan.

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The holidays can be a tricky period of time so we are wishing everyone a safe holiday season. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

This episode of Bitch Is A Bad Word was originally released on May 22, 2025

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You don’t need a black eye to be a survivor.

In this raw and revealing episode, I sit down with Marcela, founder of Beyond the Bruise, to talk about what abuse really looks like — and why the healing journey isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Together, we dive deep into what happens after the leaving. The grief. The gaslighting. The shaky steps toward trusting yourself again. Marcela shares her own story of survival and how she now helps other women walk through the fire and into freedom.

If you've ever felt unseen, doubted your own experience, or wondered why you're still healing “so long after” — this episode is for you.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• The truth about abuse that doesn’t leave physical scars
• Why survivors often miss the warning signs — and how to spot them
• The emotional whiplash of loving someone who hurts you
• How Marcela turned her pain into purpose with Beyond the Bruise
• Real talk on healing, self-trust, and reclaiming your voice

Whether you're still processing or years into recovery, Bitch Is a Bad Word is your space to feel validated, empowered, and unshakably seen. We've got your back, bestie.

FOLLOW Marcela

IG: @beyond.the.bruise

If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

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Watch: YouTube

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a re-release from May 6, 2025 with Dr. Amelia Kelley.

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Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse designed to make you question your own reality, and in this powerful episode, Dr. Amelia Kelley—trauma-informed therapist and author—helps us uncover the truth about this manipulative tactic. We’ll break down the emotional impact of gaslighting and how it affects your mental health. Plus, Dr. Kelley introduces a fourth “F” trauma response that you might not be aware of. If you’ve been made to feel crazy or manipulated, this episode is a must-listen.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• What gaslighting really is and how it affects your self-esteem
• Recognizing the red flags of gaslighting in relationships
• Dr. Kelly’s introduction to a fourth trauma response (hint: it’s not just fight, flight, or freeze)
• Practical tips for survivors to heal and rebuild self-trust after emotional manipulation
• How to break free from the toxic cycle of gaslighting

Whether you're navigating a relationship with a gaslighter or you’ve recently emerged from one, we’ve got your back. Tune in for expert insights, real talk, and healing tips.

You deserve to reclaim your truth and trust yourself again. 

FOLLOW Amelia:

• https://www.instagram.comdrameliakelley/ 
• www.ameliakelley.com
• https://thesensitivitydoctor.simplecast.com/ 
• https://www.facebook.com/DrAmeliaKelley

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

Join the Bestie Gang on Patreon, Patreon.com/bitchisabadword

------

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The holidays can be a tricky period of time so we are wishing everyone a safe holiday season. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

This is a re-release from May 20, 2025 with Laura Richards.

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He never hit you… so it couldn’t have been abuse, right?

Wrong. And this week, we’re unpacking exactly why.

Joining me is Laura Richards, narcissistic abuse recovery coach, author of Married to a Nice Guy, and host of the podcast That’s Where I’m At. Together, we talk about what it’s really like to be trapped in a relationship with someone who everyone else thinks is “so nice” — while behind closed doors, your sense of self is slowly unraveling.

Verbal abuse doesn’t always leave bruises — but it leaves marks. In this validating and eye-opening episode, Laura helps us break down the subtle yet devastating effects of emotional abuse. We explore how narcissists weaponize charm, how control can hide in plain sight, and what it takes to truly heal.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• What verbal abuse actually looks and feels like — even when they “never hit you”
• How narcissists weaponize kindness and charm to isolate and control
• Red flags you might miss in a “nice guy” relationship
• The unique pain of being disbelieved — and how to validate yourself
• Healing after narcissistic abuse: reclaiming joy, confidence, and yes… enjoying dinner alone again

Whether you’re still in it, fresh out, or deep in healing — this episode will help you feel seen, supported, and strong.

Tune in now for raw truth, expert insight, and reminders that your story matters.

Because your peace is not too much to ask for — and you were never “crazy” for wanting more.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

LAURA RICHARDS

- LISTEN to her podcast THAT'S WHERE I'M AT: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thats-where-im-at/id1704083491

- IG:  ⁨@thatswhereimatpodcast⁩ 

- TIKTOK  ⁨@thatswhereimatpodcast⁩ 

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Reality isn’t always what it seems…. it’s what you make it.

PREORDER "THE LIGHTRUNNER" , Ally Walker’s (SONS OF ANARCHY) debut thriller!!! Comes out on Amazon and Barnes and Noble June 6th but is Available for preorder NOW! Go to www.allywalkerofficial.com for more info.

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And when the relationship ends, the impact doesn’t. We talk about co-parenting after domestic abuse, high-conflict custody, and how control can continue through communication, schedules, and court. Dr. Sherrie shares practical, trauma-aware tools to help you break the cycle, set boundaries that hold, use low-drama communication strategies, and protect your peace while staying grounded as a parent.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why “toxic” love feels familiar when you grew up in a low-effort family system
• How childhood conditioning shapes adult attachment, tolerance, and red flags
• Co-parenting after abuse, when communication becomes the new battlefield
• Parallel parenting vs. co-parenting, choosing safety and stability
• Gray rock and boundary scripts to stop feeding conflict
• Documentation and pattern tracking for family court
• Nervous system regulation when every message triggers anxiety
• Rebuilding self-trust and breaking generational cycles

About Dr. Sherrie Campbell

Dr. Sherrie Campbell is a licensed psychologist, author, and speaker focused on toxic family systems, emotional abuse recovery, and boundary work that helps people reclaim their lives.

•  Listen now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
•  Watch the full episode on YouTube
•  Join the Bestie Gang on Patreon for bonus content and behind the scenes
•  Rate and review on Apple Podcasts so more survivors can find this episode
•  Follow Bitch Is A Bad Word on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode
•  Share this with a bestie who’s co-parenting in chaos or healing childhood patterns
•  Comment your biggest takeaway and the boundary you’re setting next
•  Support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (US) 1-800-799-SAFE

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TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented.

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

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Besties, we’re going straight into one of the most overwhelming chapters after leaving abuse: family court.

Because the truth is this. Abuse does not end when the relationship ends. It escalates. It shifts. And for many survivors, it becomes weaponized through custody battles, litigation, and the legal system itself.

In this episode of Bitch Is A Bad Word, Lindsay sits down with Nikhita Ved of the National Domestic Violence Hotline to break down what survivors need to know when navigating family court, civil court, protective orders, and post-separation abuse.

We unpack how litigation becomes the new form of control, why survivors are often retraumatized by the legal process, and how understanding court strategy, documentation, and timing can make all the difference. Nikhita brings decades of frontline experience supporting survivors through high-conflict custody cases, protective orders, supervised visitation, and court navigation, while Lindsay shares lived experience as a protective parent navigating the system.

This is not about revenge.

This is not about winning.

This is about preparation, strategy, and protecting yourself and your children.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why abuse often escalates after separation through litigation and family court

• How family court, civil court, and criminal court differ and why those differences matter

• What litigation abuse looks like and how abusers use the legal system to maintain control

• Why survivors need a bestie, not just an attorney, when navigating court

• How judges actually think about the “best interest of the child”

• How to prepare, document patterns, and protect your credibility in court

• What it really means to work with a trauma-informed attorney

• How pro se survivors can advocate for themselves more effectively

About the National Domestic Violence Hotline

The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential support, resources, and safety planning for survivors of domestic violence 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their advocates help survivors navigate abuse, custody concerns, legal options, and safety planning with compassion, patience, and care.

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In this episode of Bitch Is A Bad Word, host Lindsay Abernathy sits down with Steven Nixon, CEO and Family Law Attorney at Talking Parents, and Heather Ruiz, Marketing Director, to break down why your inbox becomes the new battlefield and how one app can create clarity, proof, and peace.

We unpack how post-separation abuse shows up as communication chaos, why texts, emails, and DMs can backfire in court, and how Talking Parents creates a secure, unalterable record that helps establish patterns, reduce legal fees, and protect your mental health.

This is not about “winning.”

This is about documentation, boundaries, and safety.

We've got your back, Besties.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

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TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented.

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why post-separation abuse often shows up as “communication chaos”

• How Talking Parents helps survivors create boundaries and court-ready documentation

• Why “I never got that message” and “I didn’t see it” stops working

• How courts use Talking Parents in high-conflict custody cases, DV cases, and supervised visitation

• How to document patterns without living on the hamster wheel

The 5 Talking Parents Features Every Bestie Needs

• Secure messaging with a court-ready record

• Recorded audio calls with transcripts

• Recorded video calls with transcripts

• Shared calendar with edit history and notifications

• Payments and reimbursement requests with built-in documentation

Plus:

Info Library, Vault storage, and a private journal to track what’s happening while protecting your peace. 

About Talking Parents

Talking Parents was built in family court for families navigating high-conflict co-parenting, custody disputes, and domestic violence situations. The platform creates an unalterable record of communication that courts trust and survivors rely on. It helps reduce conflict, establish patterns, and remove emotion from exchanges when safety and accountability matter most.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tonya and Lindsay get brutally honest about emotional abuse, financial abuse, manipulation, narcissistic partners who smile in mug shots, and what it takes to break free, protect your kids, and reclaim your voice. If you have ever been called everything from “crazy,” “whore,” to “too sensitive,” this Bitch Sesh is your neon sign that you are not the problem.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Tonya went from bullied teenager to Motown artist touring with *NSYNC
• The difference between “perfect childhood” and adult partners who weaponize your empathy
• What domestic violence looks like when there are no bruises
• Financial abuse, hidden money, smashed laptops, and “rules for thee, not for me”
• Smear campaigns, flying monkeys, and estranged family members used as weapons
• Postpartum depression, being a stay at home mom, and why “take a shower” is not a break
• How abuse shows up in your body through stress, rashes, hair loss, and chronic pain
• Intermittent reinforcement, love bombing, and why leaving feels harder than staying
• Why abusing the mother of your children is abusing the children by proxy
• The story behind “Nobody Loves Me Like You” and why this song is a lifeline for survivors

About Tonya Mitchell

Tonya Mitchell is a singer, songwriter, and domestic violence survivor advocate. Signed to Motown as a teenager, she toured with *NSYNC and landed a Top 40 hit before walking away to build a family, only to find herself trapped in multiple abusive relationships. Today, Tonya uses her voice to speak for survivors through her new single “Nobody Loves Me Like You,” a powerful ballad about emotional abuse, coercive control, and the kind of love that suffocates instead of saves. She partners with the National Alliance of Domestic Violence Survivors and is dedicated to using music, storytelling, and lived experience to help women recognize the signs, get safe, and break the cycle.

Follow & Connect

Listen to “Nobody Loves Me Like You” by Tonya Mitchell on your favorite music platform

We've got your back, Besties.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented.

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we cover:

• How abusers flip the script and weaponize diagnoses, “parental alienation,” and your trauma responses in court
• Why family courts often give full custody to known violent offenders and strip safe, loving parents of their children
• How gag orders, sealed records, fake experts and closed courts create an “abuse industry” worth billions
• What “family court violence” is and why Dr. Lee calls it a public health emergency
• The impact on moms. financial ruin, health collapse, disability and increased risk of death after losing custody
• Practical insight for protective parents walking into court after domestic violence

About Dr. Bandy X. Lee

Dr. Bandy X. Lee is a forensic psychiatrist and global violence expert who has spent 25 years working with violent offenders in maximum security settings and serving as an expert witness across the United States. She is the Chief Medical Officer of the Institute of Forensic Science and a leading voice on the intersection of psychopathy, coercive control, systemic abuse and family court. She writes and educates on “family court violence” and is organizing a landmark national conference to reform this system.

Follow and connect:

• Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for full episodes and ad free options
• Watch full video episodes and clips on YouTube
• Join the Bestie Gang on Patreon for ad free listening, BTS, bonus content and our vetted private community
• Connect with us on social to share your story, suggest guests and stay plugged into resources for survivors and protective parents

We've got your back, Besties.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented.

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Bitch Sesh with therapist and narc-recovery expert Amy Watkins, LPC, we break down the post-separation mindf*ck, the breadcrumbs of decency, the mask they wear for the new supply, the way they tell the next one you are crazy while she drinks the Kool-Aid, and how you spiral back into self-doubt, body shame, and “am I the problem?” loops.

We talk about the post-separation apocalypse and how to protect your peace when your ex wakes up every day seemingly asking, “How can I f*ck with her today?”

Trigger Warning for SA survivors: We also go deep into Lindsay's own story, including SA I did not recognize as SA at the time, caretaking after harm, walking on eggshells in every area of life, and shrinking my needs until I stopped asking for anything because everything I loved was eventually broken or weaponized against me.

In this episode, we get into:

• Post-separation abuse and why you do not even know you are in it until you are out
• How abusers flip the script: “you are crazy, you are a bitch” to the new partner
• Gaslighting, confusion, and how constant reality-twisting can genuinely make you feel like you are going insane
• Why you keep asking “Am I the problem?” after behaving in ways you do not even recognize
• Sex as a way to stay out of trouble, sexual coercion in marriage or relationships, and why that is not a healthy dynamic
• Fear as your first language: rehearsing basic needs, being terrified to ask for anything, and how that keeps you stuck
• How unhealed childhood trauma makes toxic love feel like home

For more on Amy Watkins, visit her at https://www.amywatkinsstudio.com/

We've got your back, Besties.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside This Episode:

• Toxic partners, gaslighting, trauma bonding & the cycle that hooks you

• Why “boring” healthy love is actually the biggest green flag

• Letting go of the “nice girl” and stepping into main-character energy

• The real, messy work of healing after trauma and rebuilding your nervous system

• Rewriting your story after the worst thing you’ve lived through

About Chelsea Husum:

Chelsea is the CEO of a thriving construction company, a survivor, a truth-teller, and living proof that resilience is a superpower. Her story is a reminder that you’re not broken you’re just getting started baddie.

Find out all about her new book, REAL VIBES ONLY here: https://chelseahusum.com/book

Listen to her podcast Lip Service & Lashes

We’ve got your back, Bestie!

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

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Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

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With nothing but blind faith, a stranger who became an angel, and strength she did not know she had, Anna made a decision no woman should ever have to make. She grabbed a burner phone, walked into the unknown, and boarded a plane to save her own life.

What followed was three years living on the run. Three years hiding, surviving, and rebuilding her identity in the shadows. Three years before she finally returned home safely.

This episode is gripping, brave, and one of the most shocking survival stories ever shared on this show. It is a testament to the power of instinct, sisterhood, and the moment a woman decides she will be her own hero in her own story.

Inside This Episode:

• What life inside an abusive family system in Dubai truly looks like

• The terror of being watched, controlled, and completely kept

• How a single moment of faith changed everything

• What it takes to run and stay alive with no safety net

• How Anna rebuilt herself after three years on the lamb

• Why leaving is the most dangerous and courageous choice a survivor can make

To learn more about Anna:

https://www.healingandcptsd.com/anna

https://www.oneofthe8.com/post/anna-marie-lopes-kindness-where-you-least-expect-it

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

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We get into how Burd Beauty is turning a hair care brand into a life saving mission, using shampoo to start conversations about teen dating violence, policy change, and giving young people language to protect themselves. Susanne breaks down how Shear Haven trains stylists around the world to recognize warning signs behind the chair and become first responders in moments that matter.

This episode is a wake up call, a masterclass, and a battle cry for anyone who believes prevention starts with honest conversations, safe adults, and empowering the next generation.

Inside This Episode:

• How Burd Beauty is building a beauty brand that doubles as a prevention tool

• Shear Haven’s global salon training movement and why cosmetologists are uniquely positioned to spot abuse

• The red flags teens miss because no one teaches them what healthy is supposed to feel like

• Why early education is the key to breaking generational cycles

• How beauty spaces can save lives, literally

Burd Beauty: https://burdbeauty.com/

Teen sisters Leah and Misha Burdeen are using their platform to change the culture around relationships, self worth, and prevention. Their products fuel confidence and a movement.

Shear Haven: https://shearhaventraining.org/

Founded by Susanne Post, Shear Haven trains stylists worldwide to identify signs of abuse, respond safely, and offer resources that can save a life.

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TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us your Texties From Your Exties - DM us on instagram at @bitchisabadwordpod or leave us a message at (331) BITCHES

Email us at biabw@caliber-studio.com or IM us on instagram @bitchisabadwordpod with what you would have done! And join our Patreon to discuss it with other Besties!

If you want us to read your "Textie From The Extie", send us it! All readings are anonymous!

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Dirty John to Romeo style coercive control, Dr. Nadine gives a masterclass on the patterns, the psychology, and the science of why smart, capable, high functioning women get trapped in relationships that turn their world upside down. This is the episode every survivor, every bestie, and every woman rebuilding her life needs in her toolkit.

Inside This Episode:

• What trauma bonding actually is

• How narcissistic abuse forms and hooks you

• The five things you must understand to protect yourself

• How coercive control works and why it escalates

• Why survivors stay and what finally breaks the bond

• Nadine’s lived experience and how she rebuilt her life

About Dr Nadine Macaluso:

Dr Nadine Macaluso is a licensed psychologist and renowned expert on relational trauma and narcissistic abuse. Her work helps survivors understand the patterns that held them captive so they can break free, reclaim their identity, and rebuild with clarity and strength.

Visit her at https://drnae.com/ and get her book RUN LIKE AT HELL at https://drnae.com/product/run-like-hell-book-bundle/

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Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"My love, when you have a brief moment, can you get me a ziploc from the kitchen?"

Others are more casual:

"Honey, can you grab me a baggie when you come up?"

Yet others choose to drop the formalities altogether:

"I need a plastic bag!"

This doting partner takes a different approach entirely, deciding that emphasizing his wife's sexual prowess - whether real or imagined - as the key motivator for her to bring him a gallon-sized sandwich baggie.

Did he get his sandwich baggie? How would you respond? Email us at biabw@caliber-studio.com or IM us on instagram @bitchisabadwordpod with what you would have done! And join our Patreon to discuss it with other Besties!

If you want us to read your "Textie From The Extie", send us it! All readings are anonymous!

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together, Lindsay and Bea unpack what it means to source your sense from within, offering practical and embodied tools for nervous system regulation, co-regulation, and building a relationship with your body that feels like home again.

She’s brilliant, bold, and such a damn good time. This episode is the somatic wake-up call every recovering people-pleaser and perfectionist needs.

Inside This Episode:

• What “outsourcing your emotions” really means

• How to recognize emotional outsourcing as a habit, not your identity

• Why codependency, perfectionism, and people-pleasing are nervous system strategies

• Somatic and co-regulation tools to bring you back into your body

• How to reclaim your safety, belonging, and worth from within

About Beatriz Albina:

Beatriz (Bea) Victoria Albina, NP, MPH, SEP (she/her) is a UCSF-trained Family Nurse Practitioner, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Master Certified Somatic Life Coach, author of the book "End Emotional Outsourcing: A Guide to Overcoming Codependent, Perfectionist and People Pleasing Habits" (Sept 30, Hachette Balance), and host of the Feminist Wellness Podcast.

With over 20 years in health and wellness, Bea helps baddies all over the world, reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and reclaim their joy.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS 

• Book Website with pre-order details
• Instagram: @beatrizvictoriaalbinanp
• Podcast: Feminist Wellness

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Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All submissions are anonymous!

Send your Exties' texties to biabw@caliber-studio.com

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside This Episode:

• How to stop mistaking pain for love

• What “cutting off the supply” really means in narcissistic relationships

• The truth about co-parenting with a narcissist and protecting your kids

• Why being “indifferent” is your ultimate power move

• How to rebuild your self-trust and finally feel safe in your own skin

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 We’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

----

About Richard Grannon

https://www.youtube.com/@RICHARDGRANNON

https://www.richardgrannon.com/

Richard Grannon is a psychotherapist, speaker, and creator of The Spartan Life Coach. Known for blending philosophy, psychology, and practical tools for emotional recovery, his work has helped millions break free from narcissistic abuse and rebuild with clarity and self-respect.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From personal survivor stories to the Power and Control Wheel, tech abuse, and teen dating violence, this episode reveals the realities of modern abuse and the lifesaving work happening behind the scenes. Lindsay also shares her emotional experience being invited to serve as an “Advocate for the Day,” listening in on live calls and witnessing firsthand the compassion and strength of those answering up to 3,000 calls every single day.

Inside This Episode:

• What really happens behind the scenes at the National Domestic Violence Hotline

• The truth about tech abuse and digital coercion in modern relationships

• How the Power and Control Wheel helps survivors recognize and name abuse

• The rise of teen dating violence and how to stop it early

• Lindsay’s firsthand experience listening in on real hotline calls

Why This Episode Matters:

Because every call is a cry for freedom and every answer is a lifeline.

About the Guest:

Katie Ray-Jones is the CEO of The National Domestic Violence Hotline, the nation’s leading resource for survivors of abuse. Under her leadership, the Hotline has expanded its services, implemented groundbreaking safety technology, and supported millions of callers nationwide.

1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

www.thehotline.org

https://www.instagram.com/ndvhofficial/

Follow & Connect:

 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube

 Follow @bitchisabadwordpodcast for updates, clips, and behind-the-scenes moments

 Need support? Visit thehotline.org or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Richard Grannon, trauma specialist, author of A Cult of One, and the internet’s most brutally honest voice on narcissistic abuse and emotional recovery. In this episode of B!tch Is A Bad Word, Lindsay and Richard go deep on how narcissistic parents and partners shape our sense of self, why chaos can feel like love, and what it takes to finally break free from toxic patterns.

Because healing isn’t just about leaving, it’s about understanding why you stayed.

Inside this episode

• The psychological imprint of narcissistic parenting and how it shapes adult relationships
• Why we confuse love with control and trauma with connection
• Hyper-fixation, adrenaline addiction, and why “ADHD” might actually be trauma
• The cult of toxic relationships and why we worship people who hurt us
• Co-creation vs. victimhood and how to reclaim power without shame
• Healing strategies to rewire your nervous system and rediscover your true self

About Richard Grannon

https://www.youtube.com/@RICHARDGRANNON

https://www.richardgrannon.com/

Richard Grannon is a psychotherapist, speaker, and creator of The Spartan Life Coach. Known for blending philosophy, psychology, and practical tools for emotional recovery, his work has helped millions break free from narcissistic abuse and rebuild with clarity and self-respect.

-----

Support Our Sponsor:

TALKINGPARENTS APP

The #1 App For More Confident Co-Parenting

Click to Learn More: https://talkingparents.com/biabw

💜 October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and we’re teaming up with TalkingParentsApp to give the Bestie Gang one of the best tools for the Bestie Toolkit, the power to communicate without chaos. Because as much as we love reading your “Texties from your Exties,” some messages are better left professionally documented. 👀

If you’re co-parenting with a narcissist, living through post-separation abuse, or just trying to protect your peace, the TalkingParents app will save your sanity. Every message. Every call. Every receipt. Safely logged. Documented bad words, gaslighting, word salads, or being run around more than a Target cart on a Sunday. Just boundaries, receipts, and your peace of mind. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this collab is all about protecting survivors long after they leave.

👉 Follow @TalkingParentsApp on Instagram & listen to the full episode of this Bitch Is A Bad Word ep now.

------

Follow & Connect

Subscribe, rate, and review Bitch Is A Bad Word to help more survivors find us!

Share this episode with a bestie stuck in the “I can fix him” cycle.

Join the Bestie Gang for tools, healing resources, and community (links in show notes)

We've Got Your Back, Besties!

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In this episode of Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Kalen to explore how young love can turn into domination, how gaslighting rewrites reality, and how long-term abuse leaves scars that take years to understand. This conversation is a raw reminder that real love is not chaos or pain, and that healing begins the moment you stop mistaking cruelty for passion.

Inside This Episode

• How abuse can start young and feel like “drama” instead of danger

• The cycle of gaslighting and control in extreme personalities

• When emotional abuse escalates into physical violence

• The moment Kalan realized “crazy” wasn’t her, it was him

• Rebuilding after years of abuse, manipulation, fear, and shame

About Kalen

Kalen is a survivor and advocate who endured years of emotional and physical abuse beginning at 17. Today she uses her experience to help other women recognize the red flags, trust their intuition, and know that love should never hurt.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Olivia Howell, founder of The Fresh Starts Registry (as featured on the TODAY Show), who’s redefining what it means to begin again after divorce, separation, or abuse. Because when we leave, we need a fresh start registry. You might have spent years too afraid to speak up about how you wanted to decorate your home. Maybe you lost your autonomy and don’t even know what your favorite color is or what clothes feel good on your body anymore. The Fresh Starts Registry gives you permission to start over with dignity, safety, and support.

In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, we explore how to rebuild your life piece by piece, emotionally, financially, and physically, while reclaiming the parts of yourself that got lost along the way.

Inside this episode

• What the Fresh Starts Registry is and how it helps fund your restart
• The power of reclaiming your space, identity, and confidence after leaving
• Co-parenting basics, boundaries, and documentation that protects you
• Financial essentials: credit, budgeting, housing, and must-have items
• Healing after narcissistic and coercive control without losing yourself
• How to build your new village: community, safety, and support

About Olivia Howell

Olivia Howell is the founder of The Fresh Starts Registry, a first-of-its-kind platform helping survivors crowd-resource the essentials for life after separation. Featured on the TODAY Show and across major media outlets, Olivia’s mission is to make rebuilding after loss or leaving not just possible but empowering.

Follow & Connect

• Subscribe, rate, and review Bitch Is a Bad Word to boost discovery
• Share this episode with a bestie who’s planning a safe exit
• Join the Bestie Gang for tools, checklists, and community support (links in show notes)

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Malou found B!tch Is a Bad Word the same way so many of us do, scrolling through social media late at night, trying to make sense of the question that changes everything: What the fck is this relationship I’m in?*

Through the endless carousel of “relationship advice” and trauma content, she began piecing together what was really happening behind closed doors. What started as confusion became clarity, and what once felt like isolation turned into community.

In this conversation, Malou shares how discovering language around micro-aggressions, narrative abuse, and subtle forms of control helped her name what she was experiencing and start rebuilding her sense of self.

More than that, she talks about the ripple effect that happens when survivors speak up, how one story shared online can become the reason another woman finally sees the truth in her own.

Inside This Episode:

• Using social media to decode emotional and psychological abuse

• The “what the f*ck is this relationship?” moment that changes everything

• How micro-aggressions and narrative abuse keep victims doubting themselves

• The ripple effect of storytelling in survivor communities

• Finding clarity and connection through shared experience

Why this episode matters:

Malou’s story is a reminder that healing often starts in the quiet scroll, in the comment sections, and in the courage to say something’s not right here. It’s about how awareness spreads, one post, one podcast, and one story at a time.

If you’ve ever questioned your reality, doubted your instincts, or turned to the internet looking for answers, this one’s for you.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of emotional abuse, manipulation, and coercive control. Please take care while listening.

We’ve got your back, Besties.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lindsay sits down with Anne Wintemute, the CEO and founder of Aimee Says, an AI-powered digital companion designed to support people experiencing domestic violence, coercive control, emotional abuse, and toxic relationships.

Aimee isn’t a chatbot or a therapist. She’s something new: a judgment-free, always-available guide that helps you figure out if what you’re experiencing is abuse and what to do next with your Textie From The Extie!

Inside This Episode

• How technology can safely support survivors who aren’t ready to reach out for help

• Why venting to Aimee can be life-changing when you’re not free to share or when your circle doesn’t understand abuse

• The moment Anne realized AI could be used for healing, not harm

• How to recognize patterns of control before they escalate

• The power of turning pain into purpose

Why It Matters

Millions of women suffer in silence because they don’t know where to start or who to trust. Aimee Says is helping survivors take their first step privately, safely, and without shame.

You are not alone. And now, you’ll never have to be. We've got your back, Bestie!

Vist Aimee Says at aimeesays.com

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of domestic abuse, coercive control, and emotional trauma. Please take care while listening.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

Join: Patreon

Follow: Instagram TikTok

Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word’s Bitch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Sarma Melngailis the woman the world met as the “Bad Vegan” but who lived something far more complex behind closed doors.

From the high of running New York’s hottest vegan restaurant to the collapse that followed, Sarma opens up about love, deception, public shaming, and the long road back to herself all while revealing the real meaning behind that now-famous duck tattoo.

What began as a fairy-tale partnership with a mysterious man spiraled into manipulation, coercion, and betrayal that left her questioning everything including her own reality.

Now, Sarma’s here to reclaim her story in her own words.

Inside This Episode:

• What really happened behind the Bad Vegan headlines

• How charm and control can disguise emotional and psychological abuse

• The price of public humiliation and the path to redemption

• Why women are often vilified for believing in love

• The unexpected wisdom that comes from losing everything

Why this episode matters:

Sarma’s story is a wake-up call about the power of persuasion, the cost of silence, and the courage it takes to start again when the world has already decided who you are. It’s about owning your narrative duck tattoo and all.

If you’ve ever been misjudged, misunderstood, or manipulated into forgetting your worth this one’s for you.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of emotional abuse, coercive control, and public shaming. Please take care while listening.

We’ve got your back, besties!

PURCHASE Sarma's New Tell-All: https://thegirlwiththeducktattoo.com/

FOLLOW Sarma on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sarmamelngailis/?hl=en

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leaving your abusive marriage or relationship may be the hardest step but picking the right lawyer may be the most important. You don't need someone who just knows the law but also understands what you've been through and the manipulative tactics your abuser will employ with the judge and with you. You need someone who knows your court, your judge and how "to read the room" to help you get what you are fighting for.

Padideh Jafari is a trauma informed Family Law and Divorce Lawyer in Southern California who specializes working with victims of domestic abuse, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, verbal abuse and coercive control. She lays out for you what you need to look for in an attorney and why choosing not just a good lawyer but an attorney who understands the mentality of your abuser and your judge is so important.

Together they cover:

- How to tell if a lawyer understands domestic violence and coercive control

- Red flags to avoid when meeting with lawyers

- How abusers weaponize the legal system against you (and what to do about it)

- The truth about litigation abuse, custody court, and financial manipulation

This episode is your legal survival guide—whether you’re newly separated or stuck in a court battle that just won’t end.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

ABOUT PADIDEH JAFARI, ESQ.

Padideh Jafari, Esq. is the Founder and CEO of Jafari Law & Mediation Office which is a Family Law and Divorce firm with offices in Los Angeles and Orange County. Attorney Jafari is a practicing lawyer for over 22 years. She is a former NYU and Southern California Institute of Law adjunct professor. She is the Podcast co-host of, the Narcissist Abuse Recovery Channel on iHeart Radio and Spotify.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

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In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word's BItch Sesh, Lindsay sits down with Berkely a former police wife whose 15-year marriage began with fast love and ended in a high-stakes fight for freedom. From behind the thin blue line, Berkley takes us deep into a world where power, control, addiction, and silence reigned supreme.

What started as a whirlwind romance with a charming detective slowly unraveled into a life of manipulation, opioid abuse, financial control, and isolation. She was told to trust the system. Instead, she was targeted by it.

Now, she’s here to tell the story the badge tried to bury.

Inside This Episode:

• The subtle red flags of coercive control (and why they’re so easy to miss)

• How addiction and authority collided behind closed doors

• What it’s really like being a cop’s wife in a small, insulated community

• When the “justice system” turns a blind eye

• How Berkley broke free and used her voice to protect her children

Why this episode matters:

Berkey's story is a gut-check for anyone who’s ever questioned their reality behind closed doors. It’s about waking up to the truth, reclaiming your voice, and surviving a system that protects power not people. And if you’ve ever felt alone in your marriage, misunderstood in your motherhood, or trapped in the image of someone else's “perfect” life, this one’s for you. 

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse (SA), domestic abuse, addiction, and coercive control. Please take care while listening.

We've got your back besties!

Need Help?

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

ABOUT BERKELY

Imagine a country girl from the Midwest, building a life centered on family. Now imagine that life being upended by the very person who vowed to protect it. Berkely is a mother of three kids in middle and high school, and a 'bonus mom' to three wonderful young women in their twenties. She endured not only the abuse of power within her marriage and the local police department but also the shocking complicity of the court system that was supposed to offer justice. Her journey to healing has been profound. Berkely is a woman on a mission to expose the hidden trauma of power abuse within the court system. After escaping a marriage marked by control and manipulation, she found herself fighting a second battle in the courts against her ex-husband. A proud Indigenous Native country girl at heart, she now lives her best life on a small farm, finding peace and healing among her children, her fiancé, farm animals, and her beloved sphynx, Lady Talalluah Danbury. Deeply in tune with the energy of others and the spirit world, she is using her unique perspective to help others find their voice. She is currently channeling her experiences along with her eldest daughter co-authored in a rediscovering their past to process their trauma and pave a new path forward. She is learning how to tell her story of resilience, spiritual strength, and reclaiming your power after profound betrayal. She has only recently begun sharing her side of the story in hopes to find peace and healing in helping others from experiencing the same horror she experienced. 

Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Watch: YouTube

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Subscribe: Newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.