Bitch Is A Bad Word: A Domestic Violence Podcast on Healing and Empowerment

This episode originally aired on September 25, 2025.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: 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 QUINNQuinn 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. 

This episode originally aired on September 9, 2025.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 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 - @vanessareiserlcswTwitter: Vanessa Reiser’s TW - @vprocklandWebsite: 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.---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/BitchIsABadWordSTAY UPDATED & SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER:https://www.caliber-studio.com/bitch-is-a-bad-word-with-lindsay#biabwsubscribeConnect with Us:📧 Email: biabw@caliber-studio.com📱 Call or Text: (331) BITCHES📸 Instagram: @bitchisabadwordpod🎵 TikTok: @bitchisabadwordLISTEN & 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

This episode originally aired on September 4, 2025.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 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.comInstagram - @iamsdstricklandFacebook - @StephanieDStrickWHAT 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 scarsStephanie’s story is one of heartbreak, resilience, and waking up to the truth.

This episode originally aired on August 26, 2025.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 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_coercivecontrolTwitter - @coercivecontrolIf 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?

This episode originally aired on July 10, 2025.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 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 abuseHow the military enables abusers behind closed doorsWhy women stay-even after the first slapThe terrifying escalation during pregnancy and motherhoodWhat gaslighting and coercive control actually sound likeThe path to reclaiming your voice, your body, and your lifeAbout 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 1-800-799-7233You’re not alone. Your healing matters. We’ve got your back, Besties!

This episode originally aired on September 29, 2025.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-----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 MichelePODCAST: LOVELUSTLAWMICHELE 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.