CONTENT WARNING: descriptions of domestic violence and sexual assault.Welcome to the season one finale! In this episode, I enlist the help of my parents and Gena to recount:The day I left J, and went to live safely with my parents. J’s mom came over (the day after I left) to talk to me.I try to figure out what I want, and I decide I want a divorce.I retrieve my belongings (my family comes along so I’m not alone).   J continues to stalk me. I petition for a Restraining Order.I moved to another state entirely, and Josh followed me there.What happens now? Tune in to listen.Resources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233Learn more about Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: https://metoomvmt.org/https://www.nsvrc.org/https://ncadv.org/why-do-victims-stay

Disclaimer to my LDS/ Mormon listeners: this episode contains constructive criticism of Church culture. For listeners who are unfamiliar with Mormonism: this episode contains some verbiage related to the LDS/ Mormon subculture. Here’s a brief orientation: Ward: a congregation. This is the congregation that members meet and worship with most regularly. The Bishop is the leader of a ward. Stake: a geographical area, consisting of several wards. The Stake President is the leader of a Stake. Singles Ward: a congregation for young, non-married adult members to meet and worship. My understanding is that the age range for Singles Wards is 18-30 years old. There is typically a lot of pressure in Singles Wards to meet other singles, go on heteronormative dates, and get married. Home Ward: a congregation where family units meet and worship regularly. Ex: a young adult may be attending a Singles Ward, but visit their parents (who are members) and attend their “Home Ward.”The Priesthood: the LDS/ Mormon Church believes that the Priesthood is the literal power and authority of God, given to “worthy” men in the church. In this way, the LDS/ Mormon Church is patriarchal, as only men assigned at birth are given the priesthood. Home Teacher: now referred to as “Ministering Brother / Sister”, this program in the church is for members to check up on each other to address any individual and/or family needs. Paul and I met before I married J. In this episode, we discuss Paul’s perspective about J, his family, the church culture related to marriage and divorce, and how to best support people with non judgment. Along the way we get distracted by Mario Party/Mario Kart, Chocolate Necessities (not sponsored), as well as some behind-the-scenes content about how I met my current sweetheart! You won’t want to miss this convo!  Music by RoboRobArtwork by Asif UlislamResources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233Learn more about Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: https://metoomvmt.org/https://www.nsvrc.org/https://ncadv.org/why-do-victims-stay

CONTENT WARNING: descriptions of domestic violence and sexual assault.J and I moved to Bellingham, and as I began finding my voice and confidence, he increased his controlling and abusive behaviors. I have so much to say about this time period! Join me, my mom, and introducing: GENA!!!Music by RoboRobArtwork by Asif UlislamResources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233Learn more about Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: https://metoomvmt.org/https://www.nsvrc.org/https://ncadv.org/why-do-victims-stay

CONTENT WARNING: descriptions of domestic violence and sexual assault. The yellow and red flags continue! My parents and I recount the wedding day and year one of marriage. We'll dive into several incidents from this timeframe when J: Isolated me from my familyBegan sexually assaulting meControlled what and how much food I ateStarted trying to control what I wore Inflicted spiritual abuseActed out in extreme jealousyDisplayed physical intimidation I must reiterate my content warning. Please exercise self-awareness, and skip this (or any) episode if you are not in a good place to hear about DV /SA. Music by RoboRobArtwork by Asif UlislamResources: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233Learn more about Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: https://metoomvmt.org/https://www.nsvrc.org/https://ncadv.org/why-do-victims-stay