To close out Domestic Violence Awareness month, Zoie (their mom is Jenn, who shared her story in Episode 21: I Stand By Me) joins me via Zoom and shares their experience as a kid coming of age in a home impacted by domestic violence. Zoie is an inspiration to me about how to set boundaries, make choices around relationships, and reclaim the sparkle within. This story perfectly illustrates that no matter our age or circumstance, our stories have so much to offer to each other.
Pro Tip: get yourself a “Mom Squad,” or as I like to call it, a “Variety Pack of Love,” aka a community of love and support. Because together, we can bring light into dark places, walk through anything and come out the other side with joy.
So, I invite you to get comfortable, sit back, and listen in.
Brief content warning: This episode includes discussion of domestic violence, martial rape, involuntary drugging, and gaslighting as told from the perspective of someone growing up in a home where all of the above are present. Please take care of yourself and, if needed, skip listening to this episode.
I Stand By Me
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness month, I invited Jenn to join me via Zoom to discuss her journey as a survivor, her healing through movement and dance, and her commitment to stand by (as in for) herself (as much as she welcomes her community to stand by and with her). At the end of our conversation, we also discuss Jenn’s experience with relationships, dating and finding joy in her body as part of her healing.
LINKS
For reference:
Tiny Kitchen Dances (Jenn) on Instagram: @tinykitchendances
Tiny Movements (documentary film about Jenn’s story) on Instagram: @tinymovementsfilm
Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Resources:
If you are in an (emotionally, physically, sexually, financially, spiritually) abusive situation, please know: you are not alone. For help, reach out to:
National Domestic Violence Hotline. They are available 24/7 by phone, text or chat.
And to learn ways to get in involved in ending domestic and sexual violence, reach out to NO MORE.
All things Hella Rader:
Every link in one place: linktr.ee/hellarader
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Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop every Wednesday.
