Brandi Morey-Pols shares the story of her six-year-old son, Rowan, who was murdered by his biological father just days before a custody hearing that she hoped would finally bring him to safety. She recounts years of coercive control, stalking, emotional abuse, repeated warnings that went unheard, and the devastating failures of multiple systems that left Rowan unprotected despite mounting evidence and escalating concerns.
Brandi and Chell explore what happens when coercive control is dismissed, warning signs are overlooked, and systems fail to recognize the danger children can face during custody disputes. Brandi also shares how honoring Rowan's life has become her purpose through the Rowan Project and Rowan's Promise, advocating for greater awareness of filicide, stronger protections for children, and legislative change aimed at preventing other families from experiencing the same unimaginable loss.
Brandi’s Links:
https://www.instagram.com/dollbb55
https://www.facebook.com/brandi.brennan.3
Resources:
The Rowan Project - List of Resources
https://therowanproject.org/?page_id=1989
Crisis Text Line
741741
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233
National Child Abuse Hotline
1-800-422-4453 – push 1 to talk to a hotline counselor
Beyond the Monsters Socials:
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and educational discussion. It is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own care.
Topic: filicide, family court failure, coercive control, domestic violence (DV), custody system failure, true crime
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