WHEN DATING HURTS: Recent Episodes
Bill Mitchell
A "must-listen-to" podcast for parents from Bill Mitchell, author of “When Dating Hurts”, who lost his daughter, Kristin, in June 2005.
1 in 3 WOMEN suffer serious physical violence from intimate partners in their lifetimes. Typically, it happens between 16-24 years of age.
It doesn't need to happen.
Bill interviews people with keen insights into dating violence: • Counselors from domestic violence agencies • Law enforcement professionals • Parents of children who were either lost or survived dating violence • Actual survivors of DV
Share this with those who need to hear it.
Romana Frey's experience as a survivor of domestic abuse led this tireless advocate to her “life’s purpose”: working toward the elimination of violence against women, specifically violence that occurs in the home.
Our interview would be full enough with her story of abuse from her parents and, later, her husband, but it also includes decades of stalking, a suicide within her family, and severe brushes with narcissistic family members. You will hear how Romana took what she was dealt and used it as the life experience she needed to take on the unfair treatment of women in Canada.
As founder and director of Amamor Women’s Foundation (AWF)—a grassroots, registered charitable organization that provides grants to registered charities, she is working to reduce domestic violence and femicide in Canada.
Romana's mantra is "See something, say something". You will hear how she followed her call around the world with the purpose of ending abuse.
Learn more about Romana Frey and her mission at: amamorwomensfoundation.com.
Romana can be emailed at: romana.frey@gmail.com.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Zencastr
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you:
Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
Cure
WHEN DATING HURTS is supported by Cure Hydration.
Try Cure today and feel the difference for yourself!
Use my link: https://zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts1 for 20% off your order, coupon activated a check out!
BlendJet
WHEN DATING HURTS is supported by BlendJet.
Use my special link: zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts12 to save 12% at blendjet.com. The discount will be applied at checkout!
This is part two with Amy. Be sure to listen to part one first.
We pick up on Amy and Brian as the turbulence he causes gets much worse. Amy holds onto the hope and good feelings she once felt when she met Brian, but he has other ideas.
Amy matches some characteristics we have seen in other abuse victims. She is affable, generous, optimistic, loyal and forgiving. He is now quite from the opposite from the man she met online. The man she thought loved her and lived with her and her young daughter.
In the beginning, Brian met Amy's checklist of the man she was hoping for. But he was actually well-practiced in deception: knowing how to bring her along in a relationship and portray himself as her engaging partner. When he had Amy where he wanted her, the real Brian emerged. And Amy's world turned upside down.
Amy's story of abuse affords keen insights into how someone can get completely trapped by a calculating abuser. See how this woman came to doubt her own reality. After giving Brian more forgiveness than he deserved, in part two, Amy seeks help and finds ways to turn the tide.
Amy considers herself and her daughter fortunate to get away from Brian alive.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Zencastr
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you:
Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
BetterHelp
WHEN DATING HURTS is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/WhenDatingHurts and get on your way to being your best self.
BlendJet
WHEN DATING HURTS is supported by BlendJet.
Use my special link: zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts12 to save 12% at blendjet.com. The discount will be applied at checkout!
Cure
WHEN DATING HURTS is supported by Cure Hydration.
Try Cure today and feel the difference for yourself!
Use my link: https://zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts1 for 20% off your order, coupon activated a check out!
This is part one of two. It's a story you can relate to — and learn from. See how innocently this relationship began. Everything seemed perfect. It looked like it had a long future. What took place later on could have happened to anyone.
Amy fits many of the characteristics of an abuse victim. She is affable, generous, optimistic, loyal and forgiving. Quite the opposite of the man she met online, thought she loved, and lived with along with her young daughter.
Like many women, Amy met a guy she quickly fell for. Brian perfectly met her checklist of the kind of a man she was hoping to find. But he was well-practiced in his deception: knowing how to bring her along and portray himself as an engaging partner. When he had her where he wanted her, the real Brian emerged. And her world turned upside down.
Amy's story of abuse gives insights into how someone can get trapped by a calculating abuser. See how a woman can come to doubt her own reality.
Amy considers herself fortunate to get out alive.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Zencastr
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you:
Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
BetterHelp
WHEN DATING HURTS is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/WhenDatingHurts and get on your way to being your best self.
BlendJet
WHEN DATING HURTS is supported by BlendJet.
Use my special link: zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts12 to save 12% at blendjet.com. The discount will be applied at checkout!
Cure
WHEN DATING HURTS is supported by Cure Hydration.
Try Cure today and feel the difference for yourself!
Use my link: https://zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts1 for 20% off your order, coupon activated a check out!
Mikkel Becker joined with me months ago for her interview. Since then, I am happy to say she and I have kept in touch. She asked if there was anything she could do for the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast.
Mikkel offered to record her thoughts looking back upon two marriages she had with husbands who turned out to be abusers. What she created is a stream of thinking I hope you agree is priceless in its honesty and its generosity for relaying powerful insights that can keep you or someone you care about safe.
What you will hear is worth sharing with your dating-age child, a friend, a co-worker—or anyone who needs to hear this.
Thank you,
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Zencastr
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurtsand use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
BetterHelp
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/WhenDatingHurts and get on your way to being your best self.
BlendJet
Use my special link: zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts12 to save 12% at blendjet.com. The discount will be applied at checkout!
Cure
Try Cure today and feel the difference for yourself!
Use my link: https://zen.ai/WhenDatingHurts1 for 20% off your order, coupon activated a check out!
Part two of Meagan's story of abuse picks up immediately after she escaped certain death had she fallen from her fourteenth-floor apartment balcony. Her fall would have been precipitated by her boyfriend, Max.
She is not sure what o do about this abuser/boyfriend. Is he an unfortunate victim of himself, or a serial abuser bent on making her life a living Hell?
Meagan is presented with a few chances to leave Max. But she wonders if a few facets of their relationship can be turned around, maybe it can become what she thought in the early days.
In this WHEN DATING HURTS episode, there are times when Meagan chooses to remain with Max over finding her own freedom. It's a vicious cycle many victims find themselves stuck in. She isn't sure whether to go to the police, call a domestic violence agency, or return home to endure further emotional and physical abuse from this man.
One morning, when Max was determining whether to kill her or let her live, it was time for her to decide her own fate.
This episode points out examples of abuse like "love bombing', "gaslighting", and more classic techniques worked to perfection by today's abusers. Be sure to listen to the end.
Bill Mitchell WhenDatingHurts.com
An Attractive Offer for You:Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
Part one of Meagan's story of abuse, takes her from Canada to New Zealand to Australia. Along the way, she meets a man she thinks is just the one she needed at just the right time.
Her narrative soon becomes an incomprehensible story of serial mistreatment. Like many accounts of abuse told on this podcast, Meagan's story left me speechless at many times. How could such an agreeable, young, smart woman could become captured by one man's vicious web of abuse remains beyond anyone's comprehension.
Hear this narrative and hope you never meet up with someone like Max: a man so devious, so thoroughly awful. Max found ways to keep an inescapable grip on Meagan time and time again.
Often, we ask ourselves why (how) anyone would go back to their abuser. But there is more to these tangled relationships than we know. There is a pull there most of us have never felt. This episode helps us gain understanding.
Max appeared to be just what Meagan needed to make her feel complete. But he came to represent a serial abuser who made her life a complete nightmare.
Things start out slowly. But hang on. This is going to become unbearable.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you:
Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
My guest, Kaytee Gillis, is a psychotherapist, author, and consultant working with survivors of traumatic relationships—whether familial or romantic.
She is also a domestic abuse survivor herself. She will talk about this.
Her recent book, Invisible Bruises: How a Better Understanding of the Patterns of Domestic Violence Can Help Survivors Navigate the Legal System, sheds light on the ways that the legal system can perpetuate the cycle of domestic violence by failing to recognize patterns that would otherwise hold perpetrators accountable and protect survivors.
Kaytee has been featured on iheart radio, the Dr. Wendy Walsh Show, CP24 News out of Toronto, Newsweek, Shaye Ganam's radio show, and numerous articles online including Psychology Today, Psychotherapy Networker, Choosing Therapy, The Mind Journal, The Good Men Project, and many more.
She provides training on recognizing patterns of domestic violence and family trauma, and helping survivors move forward.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
My guest, Kaytee Gillis, is a psychotherapist, author, and consultant working with survivors of traumatic relationships—whether familial or romantic.
She is also a domestic abuse survivor herself. She will talk about this.
Her recent book, Invisible Bruises: How a Better Understanding of the Patterns of Domestic Violence Can Help Survivors Navigate the Legal System, sheds light on the ways that the legal system can perpetuate the cycle of domestic violence by failing to recognize patterns that would otherwise hold perpetrators accountable and protect survivors.
Kaytee has been featured on iheart radio, the Dr. Wendy Walsh Show, CP24 News out of Toronto, Newsweek, Shaye Ganam's radio show, and numerous articles online including Psychology Today, Psychotherapy Networker, Choosing Therapy, The Mind Journal, The Good Men Project, and many more.
She provides training on recognizing patterns of domestic violence and family trauma, and helping survivors move forward.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Attractive Offer for You:
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
Bianca contacted me wanting to share a situation her daughter, Gracie, experienced in high school. It was not in any way a romantic relationship, but had all the markings of an unhealthy relationship with Liz, another high school student.
Gracie was lured into this abusive relationship during the high water days of Covid, when students needed to stay at home. So, getting access to school friends was limited. Time spent with Liz made it possible for her to manipulate Gracie until it became what could be termed “classic abuse”.
This WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast episode demonstrates how students at the ninth and tenth grade levels can be taken advantage of if they are not introduced to the warning signs of unhealthy relationships. It is often within these relationships our young gain experience with how words and actions affect others.
Gracie learned a tough lesson—as did her parents. Please share this episode with those you feel need to hear it.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Attractive Offer for You: Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
Bianca contacted me wanting to share a situation her daughter, Gracie, experienced in high school. It was not in any way a romantic relationship, but had all the markings of an unhealthy relationship with Liz, another high school student.
Gracie was lured into this abusive relationship during the high water days of Covid, when students needed to stay at home. So, getting access to school friends was limited. Time spent with Liz made it possible for her to manipulate Gracie until it became what could be termed “classic abuse”.
This WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast episode demonstrates how students at the ninth and tenth grade levels can be taken advantage of if they are not introduced to the warning signs of unhealthy relationships. It is often within these relationships our young gain experience with how words and actions affect others.
Gracie learned a tough lesson—as did her parents. Please share this episode with those you feel need to hear it.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Attractive Offer for You: Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Use my special link zen.ai/whendatinghurts and use "whendatinghurts" to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story using Zencastr.
Maureen Murray is not a "counselor" specifically. Her task with Laurel House Domestic Violence Agency in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania is going into the community (mostly the school populations) and educate about healthy relationships, dating violence, or domestic abuse depending on the audience.
The education she dispenses also brings her teams into universities, police stations, corporate offices, and so on.
This WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast episode touches on how to introduce students at the ninth and tenth grade levels to what is meant by a healthy (or an unhealthy) relationship. It’s within these early relationships that our young gain knowledge of how words and actions affect others.
Many areas are covered in this invaluable episode. Please share with those you know who you feel need to hear this.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
This is part two of an astonishing account by Melissa Byers, who lives in Florida.
Melissa has always been a trusting soul. Today, she is a true survivor. She was the victim, several times, of the insidious methods predators use to lure innocent people into relationships and then slam an emotional door shut on them.
Today's serial abusers are crafty individuals. They practice their techniques and learn what makes them attractive and then how to turn the screws. When they get a target in their sights, they don't stop until a successful capture is made. Melissa only saw the good in these men she married. Men who took complete advantage of her.
It would be tempting to believe this would never happen to one of us, but when you hear Melissa’s story, you might think differently.
This is her survivor’s story, so you know it will have a positive ending. But the path to Melissa’s freedom came with life-threatening perils. Be sure to listen to this episode, and then suggest it to those you care about.
Bill Mitchell WhenDatingHurts.com
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
This is part one of an astonishing account by Melissa Byers, who lives in Florida.
Melissa has always been a trusting soul. Today, she is a true survivor. She was the victim, several times, of the insidious methods predators use to lure innocent people into relationships and then slam an emotional door shut on them.
Today's serial abusers are crafty individuals. They practice their techniques and learn what makes them attractive and then how to turn the screws. When they get a target in their sights, they don't stop until a successful capture is made. Melissa only saw the good in these men she married. Men who took complete advantage of her.
It would be tempting to believe this would never happen to one of us, but when you hear Melissa’s story, you might think differently.
This is her survivor’s story, so you know it will have a positive ending. But the path to Melissa’s freedom came with life-threatening perils. Be sure to listen to this episode, and then suggest it to those you care about.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
The prevailing stereotype about dating (and domestic) violence is that it mostly happens in the toughest parts of towns and cities. You know, the most depressed parts. And that’s not true at all.
It can happen anywhere.
My guest on the WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast, Mikkel Becker, is a domestic and dating abuse survivor. She grew up in a perfect, loving nuclear family. Everything seemed absolutely right, but still she once she left her home, she became lost within abusive relationships.
In dating and in marriage, more than once Mikkel thought she had met the perfect guy for her and—more than once—she did not.
Listen to my conversation with Mikkel. You will find this could happen to anyone you know.
You can reach out to Mikkel at Mikkel.becker@fearfreepets.com. You will be able to read about the good works she is performing for animals at fearfreepets.com.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
I met Jen Lee two years ago when she and I launched our separate podcasts at around the same time. Both are heavily aimed at identifying and supporting survivors. Jen and I share podcast tips and have remained professional friends ever since.
Residing in Virginia, her first marriage ended amicably (really). She wanted a relationship that matched her energy and zest for life. While having an after-work bite with coworkers, she met a guy and instantly fell for him. A fast-moving, long-distance relationship ensued with Rob, a businessman from New York.
A trusting person, Jen became caught up in a relationship that can only be described as “crazy”. Today, with the wisdom of years, Jen can look back and describe all of the warning signs that could have saved her from three years of heartache and misery had she only known better.
You need to hear this one as it plays out.
Jen’s survivor podcast is entitled, “I Need Blue”. Her brand-new book is called, “Why I Survived”. Click here for her website.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
Blair wrote me and said, “The more I listen to stories on your podcast, (the more) I feel compelled to share.”
Blair grew up, in her words, “Surrounded and molded by the dysfunction of my parents' volatile dynamic.” She describes that time in her life, and you will feel it.
Later, she suffered dating abuse only days after graduating high school. She details what it was like and how it felt. Like most victims, she was lured into this with careful manipulation and grooming. It lasted five years. Like all "DV" survivors, when she hit her breaking point, only then did she realize and commit to breaking free.
There’s much to be gained by listening to Blair's story. She is another heroic survivor who is shining a bright light on what domestic violence is—and how she reclaimed herself. Today, Blair lives in a happy and healthy relationship surrounded by her husband, her two adorable children, and her dogs.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
Erin was able to connect with me thanks to a mutual friend who is also a domestic violence survivor.
This is part two (of two parts). We hear how Erin's problems are driving her to a breaking point. Her partner had reduced her life (and the life of her baby boy) to what amounted to enslavement within their own home.
Erin comes to the realization that her baby is in danger, and that is enough for her to take steps to find freedom.
It seems impossible that someone could become so horribly entangled in a relationship like Erin's, but this episode shows what can be going on behind closed doors.
Be sure you share this WHEN DATING HURTS episode with someone who's dating.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Interested in investing in Zencastr?
Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
Erin was able to connect with me thanks to a mutual friend who is also a domestic violence survivor.
This is part one (of two parts), and we hear how Erin was taken advantage of when she was suffering through a highly sensitive passage in her life. Like many victims, she was an innocent, generous person—the kind of target predators are looking to lure into problematic relationships.
The warning signs of potential danger were there, but Erin couldn’t interpret them. You will learn plenty from this powerful episode. You will see how difficult it is to break from an accomplished abuser. You need to hear Erin's story.
Be sure you share this WHEN DATING HURTS episode with someone who's dating.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Interested in investing in Zencastr?
Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
Elizabeth Overstreet has been featured by ABC, CBS, NBC, The New York Times, and many other media outlets. She is a trusted love and relationship strategist. She says she, "Keeps things real". You will hear how she does it in this episode of the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast.
Through her expert coaching and motivational speaking, Elizabeth is known for creating personalized, practical roadmaps to happier, more satisfying relationships with others—and yourself.
Elizabeth is based in Raleigh, NC, Elizabeth partners with individuals, couples, and companies globally. Her website is:
elizabethoverstreet.com.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
Interested in investing in Zencastr?
Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
Lauren is about 30-years old. Her story is a cautionary tale that needs to be heard.
In high school, Lauren fell in love with Max. She didn’t know what she was getting into. Abusive guys, like Max, become well-practiced at the manipulation and grooming their targets. Lauren mistook his behavior as love.
It was not. It was a classic example of dating abuse.
Like many innocent young women, Lauren stayed in the relationship far too long. When it ended, she met a man she would later marry. They have two daughters now. You will hear how that relationship turned out as well. It was not good.
Set aside some time and listen to Lauren's story. Then invite others to hear what can really go on in high school and after. You probably will want to take notes.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Opportunity for You:
I use a company called Zencastr (it's a weird spelling, I know) to record and host all my episodes on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. I have used their intuitive products for over two years now. They have made the management and delivery of our podcast's messages easy.
Podcasting has grown exponentially. There are podcasts on just about everything. And podcasting advertising has been the fastest growing channel in that time.
Interested in investing in Zencastr?
Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
We met J R Waltemyer in the summer of 2019, and he remains a valuable contact for us at the Office of Victim Advocate (OVA) in Pennsylvania. OVA is the state agency with the authority and duty to advocate for the rights and needs of crime victims.
OVA accomplishes their mission through victim services, which includes post-sentencing notifications of offender status and movements within the Department of Corrections and the parole system; restorative justice programs that promote resilience and healing; and they are currently developing new initiatives around crime prevention.
OVA envisions a Pennsylvania in which justice thrives. They collaborate closely with fellow state agencies and community groups to develop and promote trauma informed programs.
You will find this episode useful if you want to know how the system works to help all survivors of violent crimes.
Bill Mitchell
WhenDatingHurts.com
An Opportunity for You:
I use a company called Zencastr (it's a weird spelling, I know) to record and host all my episodes on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. I have used their intuitive products for over two years now. They have made the management and delivery of our podcast's messages easy.
Podcasting has grown exponentially. There are podcasts on just about everything. And podcasting advertising has been the fastest growing channel in that time.
Interested in investing in Zencastr?
Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
I read Janine Latus's 336-page book, "If I Am Missing or Dead", years ago. I finished it in two days. It was that compelling a read. I reached out to her many times since then, and she has always answered me. She is so special. Janine has been called "...the most compelling speaker on sexual assault and relationship abuse I've ever heard." I believe that is spot on. Why is that? She knows it because she has lived it. Janine has come face to face with domestic abuse starting as a young girl. As much as she tried for this not to happen to her again later in life, she ended up in an abusive relationship that nearly cost her her life. The most-cherished person in Janine's life, her sister Amy, also fell prey to domestic violence. Amy trusted a man who took complete advantage of her. They way Janine tells this will take your breath away. Janine Latus has given countless speeches before diverse audiences. She is nationally-known as a powerful force for bringing lifesaving information to those who need it most. Set aside an hour and listen to this episode with Janine Latus. I promise you it will be time invested wisely. Bill MitchellAn Opportunity for You:I use a company called Zencastr (it's a weird spelling, I know) to record and host all my episodes on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. I have used their intuitive products for over two years now. They have made the management and delivery of our podcast's messages easy.Podcasting has grown exponentially. There are podcasts on just about everything. And podcasting advertising has been the fastest growing channel in that time.
Interested in investing in Zencastr? Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
One of our well-informed WHEN DATING HURTS listeners sent me an email with a list of things you must do before leaving your abuser. In this episode, you will hear about the kinds of items a domestic violence counselor will tell you while figuring out an escape plan to safety.
This is a short episode but one of our most valuable. You might have a pen and paper handy so don't miss anything.
Share this episode with friends and family who might need to hear it. You never know when someone is suffering in an unhealthy relationship today and needs to start preparing for a safe escape.
Bill Mitchell
An Opportunity for You:
I use a company called Zencastr (it's a weird spelling, I know) to record and host all my episodes on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast. I have used their intuitive products for over two years now. They have made the management and delivery of our podcast's messages easy.
Podcasting has grown exponentially. There are podcasts on just about everything. And podcasting advertising has been the fastest growing channel in that time.
Interested in investing in Zencastr?
Go to WeFunder.com/Zencastr to claim your slice of the future of podcasting!
This is the perfect time to get onboard with Zencastr. They have made podcasting easy and attractive to podcasters. Why not benefit from their success?
"Rosy" is a listener from London, UK. She first came across this podcast when listening to an episode on the This Is Actually Happening podcast. It led to her discovering the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast and hearing interviews with experts and abuse survivors.
Rosy has spent most of my late 20's and early 30's recovering from dating abuse she experienced. The WHEN DATING HURTS podcast has helped her in understanding her experiences.
Rosy was in an abusive relationship (on and off) from the age of 19 until about 26. She found it hard to leave even after experiencing periods of happiness without him. Part of what kept her in the relationship was feeling unable to cut him off due to mutual friends, abandonment issues that stemmed from my childhood, and generally being subject to emotionally abusive tactics.
This is Rosy's interview on WHEN DATING HURTS.
Bill Mitchell
BTW, if you're a podcast host, or want to become one, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs.
It’s time to share your story.
Brenda heard one of my interviews and reached out to me via email. When I learned what she could bring to our listeners, we set a time and created this episode.
Brenda's story has twists and turns. You will hear the many insidious ways her abuser would not give up when she expressed no futher interest in him. He was going to maintain control over her no matter what.
This WHEN DATING HURTS episode will hold your attention while you learn more about ways to break free from the iron grip of domestic violence.
Bill Mitchell
Hey, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
This is part two...
Lindsey Brisbine's dating violence ordeals tell you all you need to know about how this sort of thing can happen, and how bad it can get.
In part two, things get worse. Lindsey's boyfriend, Jay, pushes everything to the limits. He is not only abusive to Lindesy, he turns on her friends as well. His viscious behavior descends into violent acts and stalking. His overwhelming appetite to control is unleashed upon everyone.
You can only hope (pray) that someone you care about never meets up with—and begins—a relationship with someone like this.
This is part two of two episodes with Lindsey.
Bill Mitchell
BTW, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
Lindsey Brisbine's dating violence ordeals in college tell you all you need to know about how this sort of thing can happen, and how bad it can get. This is not easy to listen to, I know, but you will hear how easily young adults are manipulated into dangerous relationships.
This can happen to anyone.
We often ask ourselves WHY don't people simply leave these unhealthy dating relationships. After listening to both episodes of Lindsey's story, you will know why.
This is part one of two episodes with Lindsey.
Bill Mitchell
BTW, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
Gena contacted me after hearing my interview on another national podcast. She was determined to make her story of abuse survival known so current victims might learn what she didn't know when she was a victim of abuse.
Like every survivor I have interviewed, I found Gena to be strong, determined, and a decent human being. Abusers seek out nice, honest people like Gena because they calculate they can manipulate and control them.
Gena's inner strength, which grew mightily during her childhood, overcame every obstacle and saved her life. Victims (and friends and family of victims) can learn so much from this WHEN DATING HURTS podcast episode. Knowledge leads to empowerment.
Bill Mitchell
BTW, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you: Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
Gena contacted me after she heard me being interviewed on another national podcast. She was determined to make her story of survival known so current victims could learn what she didn't know when she was being abused.
Like every survivor I have interviewed, I found Gena to be strong, determined, and a decent human being. Abusers always seek out nice, honest people like Gena who they calculate they can manipulate and control.
Gena's inner strength, which grew mightily in her in her childhood, overcame all obstacles and saved her life. Victims (and friends and family of victims) can learn much from this WHEN DATING HURTS podcast episode. Knowledge leads to empowerment.
Bill Mitchell
BTW, if you're a podcast host, here's some advice for you:
Go to ZENCASTR.com/pricing and use my code whendatinghurts, and you’ll get 30% off your first 3 months of ZENCASTR professional.
I want you to have the same experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It’s time to share your story.
J.D. McCabe maintained a loving relationship with his wife for nearly twenty years before their marriage, family, and world began to crumble. Their foundation had been rooted in "trust is the bedrock of a healthy relationship". Indeed, Erin had always claimed that things wouldn’t — couldn’t — work without trust.
But Erin became suspicious of his every move. His phone calls, texts, and work emails were turned into proof of infidelity, drug addiction, and a network of lies on his part.
She enlisted her mother in her efforts, and together they forged the words of family, trust and honesty beat him into the ground. Their accusations accumulated, twisting reality, and eventually resulting in Danny's involuntary hospitalization.
Listen to J.D.'s story. You will not be able to guess where it goes or how he survived.
You can read J.D. McCabe's full story in his memoir, "The Third Gift: My Dance with the Devil (and Her Mother)"
I was delighted when I was contacted by "The Only One in the Room" podcast. Hosts Laura and Scott have a series that has earned national attention.
Getting onto this podcast series takes having a story they feel is worth their precious time and attention. The story of our family's journey after my daughter's tragedy gained us this opportunity.
This is quite a comprehensive interview. You will learn much about dating violence. If you know someone who is dating, I promise you this will be worth your time.
WhenDatingHurts.com
From a very early age, Victorea Luminary and her father were abused by her alcoholic mother. Finally free from decades of abuse, she innocently ran into even more trouble with two different relationships with narcissists. One was her husband; the other a man she thought was going to become her savior.
In vivid detail, Victorea tells of the ways she was lured into these insidious relationships. She explains how narcissists manipulate their prey. With sheer determination, she was able to break free from each man to become the powerful woman and survivor she is today. Learn from Victorea as she takes us some of the scariest experiences imaginable.
To find out more about the good works of Victorea Luminary, head to https://takebackyourpowernow.com/
I get a lot of questions via email, Facebook, Instagram, and before and after speeches. I felt it a good idea to answer them for you in this episode.
If you have questions or thoughts you 'd like to share, reach me at: BillMitchell@WhenDatingHurts.com.
Hi Everyone,
This episode is a repeat of the first one in the series. I wanted to remind listeners why we created this podcast.
I lost my daughter in 2005 when she was murdered by her ex-boyfriend after she was breaking up with him. Something like that stays with you for a lifetime. It was 17 years ago and feels like yesterday.
Since 2005, I wrote a book about what happened with Kristin and gave it the same name as this podcast: WHEN DATING HURTS. That is also the name of all of the speeches I have given over the years. The WHEN DATING HURTS book came out as a paperback. Then an e-book. And lastly, an audiobook. The idea has always been that we learned many important insights about how to detect unhealthy relationships, and what to do to break free safely. We felt it our responsibility to share what we had learned.
So, therefore, the podcast series. The wonderful thing about podcasts is I can record one, edit it and share it all in the same day. I could not do that with a book.
I hope you listen to some of the episodes in this podcast series. There are 40 in all. I would love for you to share these with those you know who have children in high school or college. Consider this fact: one and three women will suffer serious physical harm from an intimate partner during their lifetimes. It typically happens between the ages of 16 and 24, but can happen to any woman at any age. It is shocking.
Thank you for listening to this. I hope you subscribe to this WHEN DATING HURTS series.
This time, I speak with Tony Lapp, the Executive Director at Courdea. Tony is also an experienced trainer, educator, writer, and therapist.
Courdea is serving the Philadelphia area by providing a thorough treatment program for abusers and harmful partners (who are mainly men—but can also be women). Courdea offers training, consultation, group therapy, trauma-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and independent general therapy.
This organization sprang forth from the idea of getting to the root of relationship abuse. It’s all about treating the person who is doing the hurting with respect and warmth. Courdea’s tagline is” “Helping people become safe partners”.
You can contact Courdea today at https://www.courdea.org/
The WHEN DATING HURTS podcast has covered many facets of the domestic violence issue. But this one is new to us.
Abusers often have patterns of violence towards all members of a household including children and pets. It’s difficult enough for the abused to find shelter for themselves. For that reason, many survivors stay in abusive homes for fear of subjecting their pets to continued abuse if left behind. And sometimes, it’s not only abuse, it’s torture or death.
RedRover, established in 1987, sought to do something to bring animals out of crisis. We will talk about the work of this wonderful organization with Katie Campbell, RedRover’s Director of Collaboration and Outreach.
Contact RedRover here.
"Sara" is a domestic violence survivor. She is also my cousin.
Sara appeared to be in a perfect marriage. A nice home and three healthy boys. But her ex-husband eventually devolved into a serial abuser. She did all she could to coerce him into getting help, but nothing seemed to work. When living with this man became dangerous, she needed to break free.
Listen to a narrative of patience and courage. Sara took years before she could tell her story. We applaud her for sharing it with us on the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast.
Susan Saurman and I met in early 2021 when we traded emails soon after she read my book. She told me her upbringing was in a home made terrifying by domestic violence perpetrated by her cruel tyrannical father.
In this WHEN DATING HURTS episode, you will hear Susan describe her young life of abuse and tragedy. She describes an abusive upbringing, paralyzing fear she suffered, and events leading up to the murder of her mother when Susan was 14. Somehow she managed to turn her story into a breathtaking narrative of courage and ascendence. She ultimately found the strength to become the extraordinary survivor she is today.
You will never forget what Susan tells us. You can read Susan's entire story in her newly published memoir, The Courage I Learned. Find it in paperback and ebook on Amazon.
On this special WHEN DATING HURTS episode, we include segments from some of our most remarkable moments in 2021. You will hear from survivors and domestic violence counselors whose insights help us better understand dating (and domestic) violence, how to detect it, how to cope, and ways to safely break free. It's worth your time if you know someone in or entering high school or college.
Soon, we will be uploading more segments from 2021— plus adding all-new interviews. If you haven’t yet, consider subscribing to the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast series.
Reminder: the brand new audiobook version of the WHEN DATING HURTS book is now available on Amazon. And, you can learn more about what we are doing. Head to WhenDatingHurts.com.
Scott Johnson is the host of What Was That Like. His podcast is one of the most-followed podcasts in the country with more than 20,000 downloads per month!
It is quite an honor to be able to tell our daughter's story on Scott's powerful podcast. He is an excellent interviewer; you will hear it yourself here.
For more information about the What Was That Like podcast, here's Scott's website: https://whatwasthatlike.com/.
In this episode, you can listen to three more chapters from the WHEN DATING HURTS audiobook. This audiobook joins the paperback and eBook versions on Amazon. You can also access this audiobook via Audible and iTunes.
THE WARNING SIGNS
The first place to turn, if you are concerned about someone's relationship with a potential abuser, is the warning signs. These red flags will guide you about if someone is facing potential danger ahead. They are indicators of possible danger and urge you to contact a domestic violence agency or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE.
If you detect trouble, do something. Don't sit there debating whether you should get involved. You should! Call for guidance.
Elaine is a domestic abuse survivor. She met the man she would later marry in a senior chemistry class in high school. They dated on and off in college. They were married during her senior year.
The entire time she was either dating or married to this man, there were ever-present warning signs indicating the unhealthiness of this partnership. In spite of the Treatment she received, Elaine pressed on trying to be a good wife. Like so many of these kinds of relationships, the abusive behavior became more frequent, more physical, and more extreme.
Elaine was married to "Doug" for over 20 years. Their two children were born and raised within a household of turbulence.
Today, with great courage, Elaine will tell you what it was like to know and be tethered to this man. Hers is a cautionary tale that if something feels wrong, it is wrong. Then do something.
You can start by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE and ask for guidance.
This is a short episode but it includes a couple of questions for you about dating violence. Plus, we added two more chapters from the WHEN DATING HURTS audiobook which will be released soon on Amazon and Audible. We are in final editing. I wish we could move faster.
As we enter 2022, please think about putting a real emphasis on learning the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship. You can google them online, or consider picking up a copy of the WHEN DATING HURTS book on Amazon. Not a big investment when it can make such a difference in someone's life.
If you know someone who's a survivor of dating (or domestic) violence, someone who wants to tell her (or his) story on this podcast, please contact me at BillMitchell@WhenDatingHurts.com. We have been told our survivor stories are the most helpful episodes we have created.
I was honored to appear on the Midday Show on WYPR which is hosted by Tom Hall. WYPR 88.1 FM is a local news station for NPR in Baltimore.
From WYPR's website:
Tom's guest, is Bill Mitchell. For the past 16 years, he has been a passionate advocate for victims of domestic violence. He is the author of a book called When Dating Hurts: What We Learned About Dating Violence After Our Daughter’s Tragic Death, in which he shares the tragic story of his daughter Kristin's murder in a case of dating violence.
The WHEN DATING HURTS audiobook will be coming out soon. We are in the final stages of editing.
On this podcast, you can listen to the first three chapters of WHEN DATING HURTS read by author Bill Mitchell.
You can reach Bill at BillMitchell@WhenDatingHurts.com.
From time to time, I am fortunate to be asked to be interviewed on someone else's podcast. This is one of those occasions.
"I Need Blue", hosted by Jen Lee, shares real-life stories of people who have experienced traumatic situations. It's a podcast that supports survivors of violent crimes. It also gives thanks to law enforcement professionals who were there to save the day.
Sheri Kurdakul is a domestic abuse survivor. There is nothing typical about the abuse she suffered. Like many survivors of abuse, her story is challenging to listen to but there is much to be learned from her.
Most survivors I have met tell of the frequent times they were on the receiving end of despicable abuse. But they also speak about the inventive ways they endured and eventually overcame those circumstances. This is one of those stories.
At first, you might feel sorry for Sheri but later you will come to admire and celebrate her courage and desire to rise above.
This is Sheri's story.
Laura Clary, BSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A has been a registered nurse for 11 years. In 2010, she completed her Forensic Nursing training at Greater Baltimore Medical Center and joined the GBMC team as a Forensic Nurse Examiner. She has been the Clinical Program Manager of the GBMC SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examination) & Domestic Violence Program since 2014.
Laura is certified to care for patients who have been victims of sexual assault, rape, child abuse/neglect, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. Laura obtained her National professional certification as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner from the International Association of Forensic Nurses in 2013.
Laura is a Board of Nursing approved Forensic Nurse Examiner Instructor and an active member of the International Association of Forensic Nurses, as well as the Maryland Child Abuse Medical Providers (CHAMP), and is Chair of the Baltimore County Sexual Assault Response team.
In May of 2017, she was nationally recognized and was awarded the title of “America’s Most Amazing Nurse” by Prevention Magazine and additionally awarded Baltimore County, Maryland’s Woman of the Year in 2018.
"Ruth" hoped everything would go perfectly when she met her husband-to-be. It did not.
She found the weight of their relationship was squarely on her before, during, and after she was married. This was a marriage that eventually included three children—all boys.
In Ruth, you will find a woman who gave it everything, but in her husband's view, she never gave enough. She never lost her desire to do the right thing and try to make her marriage work. I commend her for not giving up no matter what she endured.
"Gabby" was in an abusive dating relationship when she was in her sophomore year at college. Even though she had dated a man for only two months, his power and control techniques were turned on "full strength".
Gabby's story is a cautionary tale on what can happen when we don't know the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship. She also sheds a bright light on dating apps; something parents and young adults who are dating need to take seriously.
We were fortunate to catch up with Angela Hayde and hear her dating violence story. In captivating detail, she tells what it was like to be dating a young man who was abusive when she was in high school and in college.
In this "on again/off again" relationship, Angela gave her best. You will hear how it began and how it deteriorated. You might ask why she stayed in this. She tell you in this gripping example of modern dating abuse. You will hear how technology played a role in making her nightmare as bad as it was.
Survivors like Angela hold my deepest respect. They face the worst people can do, and now are using their experiences to save others.
"CausePods" is a podcast series created to raise awareness for the people who create podcasts to better their community, society, and the world.
The host of "CausePods", Mathew Passy, interviewed me (Bill Mitchell) this time. I appreciated this interview so much, I asked if I could include it on the WHEN DATING HURTS series. Here it is.
Kathryn Marsh and Melissa Hoppmeyer are prosecutors who specialize in child abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence crimes. They are co-hosts of the thriving "No Grey Zone" podcast, now in season two.
For October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, "No Grey Zone" interviewed Bill Mitchell, author of the When Dating Hurts book and host of the When Dating Hurts podcast.
"Ryan" volunteered to speak with us. We're glad he did. What he says is stunning. This episode will be remembered as one of the most-compelling interviews in our entire WHEN DATING HURTS series.
I knew parts of Ryan's background, but I didn't know all he'd been through until we spoke. You will hear his full story as you experience and learn from it. I gained such respect for Ryan's courage by hearing about his terrifying ordeal.
Your time invested in listening will be rewarded by seeing how someone who experienced concurrent nightmares was able to pull himself together and find safety.
Be sure to share this with people you know who need to hear it. Each of us will learn from Ryan.
Episode 19. Denise Venuto, Dynamic Domestic Violence Counselor
Denise's experiences, both personal and professional, led her to obtain her Master of Science Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia.
In 2018, Denise began a clinical internship with Laurel House then continued working with them as an individual, group and financial counselor. She has offered group counseling for young adults (ages 18-24) who have been affected by intimate partner violence.
Denise is now running a new program called the “Economic Justice and Empowerment Program” that will empower survivors in financial safety and career matters. Financial abuse occurs in 99% of all abusive marriages. A real 99%.
Denise makes such an informative interview. So glad she wanted to speak with us.
Episode 18. Nichelle Lynn-Hennigan - Professional Domestic Violence Counselor
I spoke with Nichelle Lynn-Hennigan who is a licensed professional counselor. She joined Laurel House five years ago as a master’s level clinical counseling intern. Today, she is a senior counselor.
During her time with Laurel House, Nichelle has provided counseling services to the women and children in their shelter, and she covered their 24-hour hotline. Currently, Nichelle works out of three different Laurel House sites and oversees two of those locations. In addition to providing individual counseling, Nichelle also facilitates a weekly support group for survivors of domestic violence.
Before coming to Laurel House, for over 12 years, Nichelle had been advocating in the crisis work field with survivors. She was also a hotline crisis worker with Women Organized Against Rape, a crisis worker with Lenape Valley Foundation, and a counselor with the Center for Family Guidance.
Nichelle is a compassionate counselor whose hope is: "That one day all survivors of abuse will be able to find healing—and the tools to cope with the trauma they have endured."
Episode 17. Katie Sanford - Domestic Violence Counselor for Middle Schools, High Schools and College Students
Katie Sanford is an educator with Laurel House, a comprehensive domestic violence agency in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
Katie has been in prevention education for 3 years. She's worked with Laurel House for 2 years.
She received her undergraduate degree in Sociology with a minor in Gender Studies from Bloomsburg University in PA—and is currently attending West Chester University (also in PA) to obtain her Master’s in Public Health with a concentration in Community Health.
Katie’s core responsibility is talking with the community—mainly students ranging from middle school to college, about domestic violence. Her passion is to change behaviors and lessen the prevalence of dating violence in the future.
I’m excited to have this opportunity to speak with Katie. What she knows will save the lives of our children.
Episode 16. Emily McCoy - Professional Domestic Violence Counselor
We hear from Emily McCoy who is a professional counselor working at Laurel House, a domestic violence agency in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Laurel House serves individuals, families, and communities throughout Montgomery County, PA.
Emily earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from West Chester University (PA) and a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Villanova University (PA).
She began work at Laurel House in January 2019. After volunteering for a few months, she accepted a position as an individual and support group counselor.
You can feel Emily's energy throughout this podcast. Her ideas and insights on how to help abused individuals makes this a compelling episode.
A different kind of an episode this time. I felt like taking a walk and recording my thoughts around the time of the sixteenth anniversary of my daughter's death by dating violence.
I spoke what I was feeling never knowing if I would share this with anyone. I suggest you take a listen.
On this episode of the WHEN DATING HURTS podcast series, I had the honor of speaking with Rosie Santulli.
Rosie has been involved with the Women’s Center of Montgomery County for over ten years. The Women’s Center of Montgomery County is a domestic violence service near Philadelphia.
After a long career as a research scientist in both academia and with Johnson & Johnson, Rosie felt it was time to rediscover herself. She had read a book entitled Half Time by Bob Buford. It focuses on transitioning in the second half of our lives. So, Rosie decided to transition her life from “Success to Significance”.
Due to her passion for women’s issues, Rosie was drawn to the Women’s Center where she became a domestic violence hotline counselor.
She soon moved into additional roles including: facilitating support groups, court accompaniment, outreach and education, peer counseling, and serving as a Board of Directors member. And finally, becoming the Co-President of the Women’s Center Board.
Rosie feels the most gratifying aspect of her volunteer experience at the center is the growth and evolution of survivors who take that difficult first step to contact the center. Rosie is part of a team approach and has benefited from networking with amazing volunteers and staff who are integral in carrying out the mission of the center.
The Mission is: Freedom from Domestic Violence and other Forms of Abuse.
It was my great honor to speak with Maria Macaluso this time.
In January 1998, Maria joined the Women’s Center of Montgomery County, PA as the executive director. The Women’s Center is a domestic violence service.
Since 1976, the Women's Center has been a volunteer, community organization whose mission is: Freedom from Domestic Violence and other forms of abuse.
Serving approximately 5,000 unique individuals every year, the Women's Center offers critical services that positively impact those affected by abuse.
The list of services includes:
• A 24-hour toll-free Hotline: 1-800-773-2424
• Assistance with filing Protection from Abuse Orders onsite at courthouse
• Court accompaniment to Protection from Abuse Orders (PFAs), in the district court,
and at preliminary hearings
• Legal advocacy and options counseling. And a lot more…
Maria and the Women’s Center of Montgomery County are proud (and so appreciative) of the 185 volunteers who tirelessly donate their time and talent to the cause. Their programs, policies and procedures reflect a strong commitment to empowering women.
Dave Thomas is focused primarily on projects pertaining to the National Law Enforcement Leadership Initiative on Violence Against Women—which is funded by the United States Office on Violence Against Women.
During his law enforcement career with Maryland’s Montgomery County Police Department, Dave Thomas taught at the Police Training Academy, served on the S.W.A.T. team, was a Hostage Negotiator, and a member of the Domestic Violence Unit.
In addition to helping create the Domestic Violence Unit, he was responsible for the department’s curriculum development in domestic violence training, as well as the policy development on domestic violence related issues.
Dave continues to challenge himself in his quest to achieve excellence in the domestic violence field and considers addressing violence against women his calling in life.
In 2010, Jasmine Uribe joined Break the Cycle, a nationally recognized non-profit working to end relationship violence with youth ages 12-24.
Now, with over 15 years working to amplify the voices of survivors of violence, Jasmine is a program innovator and pioneer in advancing national dating violence prevention efforts.
In her current role as CEO (and Founder) of “Leaders Ending Violence”, Jasmine offers a robust set of skills—to diverse audiences—at a senior consultant level. She’s a trained facilitator delivering workshops to both youth and adults related to increasing education, awareness, and support on matters related to dating and domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and cyber-stalking.
Jasmine is a trailblazer, willing to address the issues that matter—while challenging the status quo. Her mission is to development programs and opportunities that inspire change, break down barriers where they exist, and build authentic relationships along the way.
The website for Leaders Ending Violence is LeadersEndingViolence.com.
Karen Widdoss is the courageous survivor of a savage assault suffered when she was a teen.
In the summer of 1994, her ex-boyfriend attacked her and nearly took her life. How she managed to hold onto her life is a complete miracle.
Karen has given her voice to survivors of violent crimes by speaking out about her experiences so that no woman would ever suffer as she has.
In this episode, we also talk about "Karen’s Law" which dramatically changes the way parole board hearings are handled. "Karen's Law" was passed on November 25, 2020 by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Karen Widdoss has continually used her tragedy to dramatically help others in need.
In September 2005, Ann Burke lost her daughter, when Lindsay Ann was murdered by her ex-boyfriend.
Lindsay Ann, who was 23 at the time, was similar to most victims of dating violence. Like my daughter, Kristin, she was not aware of the warning signs associated with dangerous relationships. Lindsay Ann's life was lost because she had never been informed.
Since 2005, Ann Burke has dedicated her life to teaching all she has learned about dating violence.
In July 2007, Ann, now a retired Health teacher living in Rhode Island, worked with legislators to pass into law the Lindsay Ann Burke Act. We talk about that and much more on this WHEN DATING HURTS Podcast.
Lt. Heather Glogolich and I met during an all-day conference on domestic violence in October 2020. We were so impressed with each other’s presentations we decided we needed to do something together. This podcast episode is a solid start.
On October 16th, 2008, Heather's life changed forever when she became the victim of intense emotional and physical abuse at the hands of her husband. He also was a police officer. Instead of succumbing to feelings of hopelessness, she used this opportunity to find her strength.
Heather took that horrific experience and turned it into her calling. She advocates for victims of domestic violence by offering resources and speaking to people all over this country.
Listen to Heather's story and all she has learned about the insidious epidemic known as domestic violence. If DV can happen to Heather, it can happen to anyone.
In 2015, I met Carla Clanagan at domestic-violence related events. Besides her limitless work in the domestic violence field, Carla is also the founder of "In His Eyes", an organization committed to helping women labeled as ex-offenders.
In 2017, Carla's daughter, Makenzie, was brutally attacked by an ex-boyfriend. She was very fortunate to survive. After much rehabilitation, Makenzie is now using her tragedy to speak out on intimate partner violence.
Carla has dedicated her life to helping young women stay safe from the epidemic we both know only too well as dating violence.
Patrisha McLean was married to a world-renowned singer for 29 years. It started out as a fairytale relationship but devolved into a 24/7 nightmare.
Like many survivors, it took Patrisha a very long time before she recognized it as classic domestic violence. Getting out almost cost Patrisha her life.
This episode teaches what can happen to anyone who doesn't know the warning signs. It also informs you on what to do when these red flags are detected.
On June 3, 2005, Detective Jim McGowan was the first person who contacted me with knowledge about what happened to my daughter. Earlier that day, he interviewed Kristin's murderer—her ex-boyfriend, Nick. From that time, Nick has remained incarcerated.
Over the years, I've gained invaluable insights from Jim on why abusers do what they do, and why abused women stay in dangerous relationships. Jim shares this and so much more on this "When Dating Hurts" episode.
It's a "must-listen-to" episode for parents, friends, and families of women who are, or might be, in dating relationships. I'm certain this episode will save someone's life.
I was interviewed by Jerusha Mack from Halton Women's Place, located in Ontario, Canada.
I felt this interview was so comprehensive, I asked to share it with our "When Dating Hurts" listeners. Ms. Mack, a licensed teacher and a public education team lead on Halton's Violence Prevention and Community Education team, graciously said yes. .
Halton Women’s Place provides shelter and crisis services for physically, emotionally, financially, and sexually abused women and their dependent children. They are dedicated to ending violence against women and their children.
Thanks to Jerusha Mack and Halton Women's Place for helping me get this lifesaving information to you.
I met "Caitlyn" in the fall of 2009 before I gave a speech about my daughter's murder.
What Caitlyn told me was the most horrific story I had ever heard at that time. Honestly, it continues to disturb me.
I was fortunate to conduct an interview with Caitlyn. Her story shows how bad domestic violence can get, but also demonstrates how strong a determined woman can be.
There is no person I respect more than Caitlyn. You will soon know why.
Beth Sturman is the executive director of the Laurel House Domestic Violence Agency. She is also a dear friend of mine.
Laurel House is the largest DV agency in the Philadelphia area. I've known Beth for 15 years and she has explained what I needed to know to be able to speak out on the dating violence epidemic. I consider her a mentor and a friend.
What she discusses in this episode can save someone's life. You should listen to this! then share it with those you care about.
Hi, I'm Bill Mitchell, and this is the When Dating Hurts podcast. My daughter, Kristin, was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in June 2005. It was twenty days after her college graduation. She had a position lined up with General Mills at that time, but never made it that far.
How can women protect themselves from dating violence? One way: listen to this podcast series. Then share it with those you care about.
I have taken the past 15 years to collect and dispense what I learned about dating violence. I wrote a book you can purchase through Amazon, called "When Dating Hurts". It tells what happened to Kristin, but also details the journey my family has taken through these years. It also discusses the warning signs all women should know so they can remain safe.
This podcast is a space where I chat with people who appear in my book, and even more women and men I have met who have deep insights into dating violence.
You will come to find this podcast is not about MY family, it's about YOURS. It's for anyone with young women in their lives because they are at risk if they do not have ample awareness and education about dating violence. My guests and I will fill in the blanks and make this world a little safer for women.