Living in the Aftermath with Lyndsey

Living in the Aftermath
  • 4.8 (16)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

Living in the Aftermath is a podcast by a domestic violence survivor, sharing raw and honest conversations about life after trauma. Each episode explores healing, resilience, and the real work of rebuilding. Featuring voices of survivors and the people who’ve walked with us. You’re not alone! This is what healing out loud looks like.

  1. 2d ago

    I Trusted Everyone But Myself: The Red Flags That Nearly Destroyed My Life

    In this powerful episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with survivor, advocate, and paralegal Lynn Stroud for a raw conversation about the warning signs of abuse that so many people miss until it's too late. From childhood experiences that shaped her understanding of relationships to sexual assault, stalking, reproductive coercion, emotional abuse, family betrayal, and the failures of systems designed to protect survivors, Lynn shares the painful realities of what happens when trauma teaches you to question your own instincts. Together, Lyndsey and Lynn discuss: ✨ Why survivors often trust everyone else's opinions over their own intuition ✨ Reproductive coercion and the hidden forms of abuse many people don't recognize ✨ Family members who defend abusers and silence victims ✨ Stalking, intimidation, and post-separation abuse ✨ Toxic messages like "Marriage is hard" and "Blood is thicker than water" ✨ The family court system and the challenges protective parents face ✨ Healing after abuse and learning to trust yourself again ✨ Building healthy relationships after trauma ✨ Breaking generational cycles and teaching our children healthy boundaries If you've ever wondered why survivors stay, why leaving is so complicated, or how abuse can exist without visible bruises, this episode offers an honest look into the realities many victims face behind closed doors. This conversation is emotional, validating, and ultimately hopeful for anyone navigating life after abuse. ⚠️ CONTENT WARNING / DISCLAIMER This episode contains discussions of: Domestic violenceSexual assaultReproductive coercionStalkingEmotional and psychological abuseTrauma and PTSDFamily court challengesPost-separation abuseViewer and listener discretion is advised. The information shared in this episode is based on personal experiences and opinions and is intended for educational and awareness purposes only. This podcast is not a substitute for legal, medical, mental health, or professional counseling services. 💜 NEED HELP? The Refuge UtahWebsite: The Refuge Utah 24-Hour Crisis Line: 📞 801-377-5500 Text Line: 📱 801-368-7700 National Domestic Violence HotlineWebsite: National Domestic Violence Hotline Call: 📞 800-799-SAFE (7233) Text: 📱 START to 88788 RAINN (Sexual Assault Support)Website: RAINN 24/7 Hotline: 📞 800-656-HOPE (4673) 📸 Instagram: @knowledge_exch_abuse_survivors 💼 LinkedIn: Lynn Stroud LinkedIn Lynn is a survivor, advocate, and paralegal dedicated to helping others recognize the warning signs of abuse, reproductive coercion, coercive control, and post-separation abuse. 🎙️ Podcast Host: Lyndsey Hackford 📸 Instagram: @living.inthe.aftermath 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Livingintheaftermath Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/living-in-the-aftermath-with-lyndsey/id1832389204

    51 min

  2. May 16

    He Made Me Believe the Abuse Was My Fault: Inside a Trauma Bond

    In this devastatingly honest episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with survivor, advocate, author, and mother Mae Scott for one of the most raw conversations the podcast has had to date. Mae shares the unimaginable reality behind surviving years of coercive control, emotional abuse, marital sexual assault, violence, manipulation, family court trauma, and the psychological conditioning that made her believe the abuse was somehow her fault. Together, Lyndsey and Mae unpack: Trauma bonds and why survivors stayThe slow psychological destruction of emotional abuseMarital rape, coercion, and consent within marriagePost-separation abuse and court manipulationParenting through domestic violenceFear, shame, guilt, and survivalLearning what healthy love actually looks likeRebuilding identity after abuseMae is the author of An Embarrassment of Pandas: Exposing an Abusive Family and a Flawed System, a powerful memoir exposing the realities of domestic violence, institutional failures, and the long fight to reclaim safety, truth, and identity after abuse. Through her advocacy and storytelling, Mae is helping survivors feel less alone while pushing for awareness and systemic change. This episode is emotional, validating, triggering, inspiring, heartbreaking, and deeply important. ⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING / CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains discussions involving: Domestic violenceSexual assaultMarital rapeEmotional & psychological abuseStrangulationTrauma bondsCourt traumaPTSD & trauma responsesSuicidal thoughtsManipulation & coercive controlListener/viewer discretion is strongly advised. Disclaimer: The experiences shared in this episode reflect personal lived experiences shared for awareness, advocacy, and education. This podcast is not intended to replace therapy, legal counsel, medical advice, or emergency/crisis services. 💜 Resources & Support The Refuge Utah Supporting survivors of domestic violence through shelter, advocacy, education, and resources. 📞 24-Hour Crisis Line: 801-377-5500 📞 Toll Free: 1-800-899-5505 🌐 The Refuge Utah Website National Domestic Violence Hotline 📞 Call: 800-799-SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: START to 88788 🌐 The Hotline Sexual Assault Support 🌐 RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) Follow & Support Mae Scott 📘 Author Website: Mae Scott Official Website 📸 Instagram: @maescottofficial 📖 An Embarrassment of Pandas: Exposing an Abusive Family and a Flawed System available now. 🎙️ Follow Living in the Aftermath for more conversations surrounding trauma, survival, healing, domestic violence awareness, and rebuilding after abuse.

    58 min

  3. May 2

    The Night Everything Changed: Trauma, Loss & Learning to Survive

    What happens when everything changes in a single moment? In this episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with Chell Bane, host of Beyond the Monsters, to share a story rooted in childhood trauma, abuse, grief, addiction, and survival. From experiencing abuse at a young age… to navigating years of emotional trauma and survival mode… to losing her husband in a sudden, devastating moment… This conversation explores what trauma really looks like— not just in the moment, but in the aftermath. Because survival doesn’t mean you’re okay. And healing isn’t always linear. This episode dives into: • Childhood trauma and long-term effects • Domestic violence and emotional abuse • Grief, sudden loss, and widowhood • Addiction and coping mechanisms • Trauma responses and survival behaviors • Rebuilding life after loss and trauma • Finding purpose after pain If you’ve ever wondered how someone keeps going after everything falls apart—this conversation is for you. 🙏 SPECIAL THANK YOU A special thank you to the Beyond the Monsters team for welcoming us into your space and allowing us to record this episode on your set. Your support, collaboration, and commitment to sharing real, meaningful stories made this conversation possible. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, abuse, trauma, addiction, grief, and suicide. Viewer/listener discretion is advised. The experiences shared are personal accounts and are not intended to determine guilt, innocence, or legal conclusions. This conversation is a depiction of lived experiences only. This content is not therapy, medical advice, or legal advice. If you are struggling, please seek support from a licensed professional. 🆘 RESOURCES & SUPPORT If you or someone you know needs help: National Domestic Violence Hotline 📞 1-800-799-7233 💬 Text START to 88788 🌐 https://www.thehotline.org 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 📞 Call or text 988 Crisis Text Line 💬 Text HOME to 741741 RAINN (Sexual Assault Support) 📞 1-800-656-HOPE 🌐 https://www.rainn.org SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use & Mental Health) 📞 1-800-662-HELP The Refuge Utah 📞 (385) 472-4088 🌐 https://therefugeutah.org You are not alone. There is support available. 🎙️ CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST – CHELL BANE 🌐 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondtheMonsters 🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-monsters/id1778966880 🎧 Spotify: (available via Linktree) If this episode impacted you, consider sharing it with someone who may need it. Because when we talk about trauma, abuse, and survival openly, we make it easier for someone else to feel seen.

    1h 17m

  4. Apr 18

    Trauma Bonded: Why You’ll Never Be Enough for a Narcissist

    Trauma bonding doesn’t feel like abuse—it feels like love. In this episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with Laura Richards to unpack the psychological grip of narcissistic abuse, the confusion of trauma bonds, and the painful belief that if you could just be better… they would finally love you the right way. Together, they dive into: Why narcissistic relationships often start with intense connection and “green flags”How gaslighting slowly makes you question your own realityThe cycle of hope, breadcrumbs, and emotional dependencyWhy leaving isn’t simple—and why staying doesn’t mean you’re weakThe truth about being discarded and replacedHow to begin healing, rebuild self-worth, and break the trauma bondThis conversation is raw, validating, and deeply personal. If you’ve ever felt like you were never enough—this episode will help you understand why. ⚠️ Disclaimer This episode discusses domestic violence, emotional abuse, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised. The views and experiences shared in this episode are personal and are not intended to determine guilt or innocence in any specific situation. This content is for educational and awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy, medical, or legal advice. 💜 Resources & Support If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available: The Refuge Utah 24/7 Crisis Line: 801-377-5500 Website: https://therefugeutah.orgNational Domestic Violence Hotline Call or text: 1-800-799-7233 Chat: https://www.thehotline.orgRAINN 24/7 Support: 800-656-HOPE https://www.rainn.orgYou are not alone. Support exists, and healing is possible. 🔗 Connect with Laura Richards Host of That’s Where I’m At Podcast Speaker | Author | Coach https://bio.site/laurarichards https://www.instagram.com/thatswhereimatpodcast https://www.youtube.com/@thatswhereimatpodcast https://open.spotify.com/show/0Lmc87ro6rDrHWtw4MXV1x?si=e204386b5e854387 📞 Resources The Refuge Utah 24/7 Hotline: (801) 377-5500 Website: https://therefugeutah.org National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Call or Text: 1-800-799-7233 Website: https://www.thehotline.org RAINN (Sexual Assault Support) Call: 800-656-HOPE Website: https://www.rainn.org 🔔 Listen & Follow Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Follow along: @living.inthe.aftermath

    48 min

  5. Apr 4

    I Fell in Love With His Potential: Why I Couldn’t Leave

    What if the reason you stayed… wasn’t weakness—but hope? In this episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with survivor and advocate Grace Stuart, host of the Why She Stayed podcast, for a raw and deeply honest conversation about one of the most misunderstood parts of abusive relationships: falling in love with someone’s potential. Grace’s podcast is dedicated to unpacking what actually keeps survivors stuck—shifting the question from “why didn’t she leave?” to what was really happening beneath the surface. In this conversation, Lyndsey and Grace connect their stories and experiences—revealing how abuse doesn’t always look obvious, and why leaving can feel impossible even when you know something isn’t right. 👉 Lyndsey was also a guest on Grace’s podcast, where she shared more of her story. Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-she-stayed/id1742281264?i=1000751213220 From the outside, it didn’t always look like abuse. There were moments of honesty. Effort. Even growth. But behind the scenes was a cycle of manipulation, trauma bonding, and confusion that made it nearly impossible to leave. Why do so many women stay—even when they know something isn’t right? Why does it feel like you never have a “good enough reason” to walk away? And how can someone be honest about some things… while still abusing you? In this episode, we talk about: Subtle and emotional abuse (before it turns physical)Trauma bonds and the addiction-like cycle of toxic relationshipsThe danger of falling in love with “who they could be”Why abuse doesn’t always look the way we expectThe moment everything finally clicks—and what it takes to leave If you’ve ever questioned your reality, stayed too long, or felt like your situation “wasn’t bad enough”… this episode is for you. You’re not crazy. And you’re not alone. ⚠️ Disclaimer This episode discusses domestic violence, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. Listener discretion is advised. This content is based on personal experiences and is not intended to determine guilt or innocence or replace professional therapy or legal advice. 📞 Resources The Refuge Utah 24/7 Hotline: (801) 377-5500 Website: https://therefugeutah.org National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.) Call or Text: 1-800-799-7233 Website: https://www.thehotline.org RAINN (Sexual Assault Support) Call: 800-656-HOPE Website: https://www.rainn.org 🔔 Listen & Follow New episodes of Living in the Aftermath drop regularly. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. Follow along: @living.inthe.aftermath

    50 min

  6. Mar 21

    Postpartum Rage to Power: Divorce, Healing & The Moment Everything Changed

    Some stories don’t start with strength… They start with survival. In this episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with Shelby to talk about a side of motherhood that almost no one talks about—postpartum rage. What began as confusion, isolation, and overwhelming emotion turned into a journey through divorce, heartbreak, and ultimately… healing and power. Shelby shares how she went from feeling like she was “losing herself” to finding strength in the most unexpected place—boxing. Through pain, she found purpose. Through rage, she found release. And through it all, she rebuilt a life rooted in confidence, resilience, and showing up for other women. This conversation is raw, honest, and a reminder that even in your darkest moments… you are not alone. ⚠️ Content Warning This episode discusses: Postpartum depression & postpartum rageDivorce & emotional traumaDomestic violence and sexual assault (referenced)Please listen with care. If you need to pause, step away, or reach out for support—honor that. ❤️ Resources & Support If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available: 🟣 The Refuge Utah Support for survivors of domestic violence & sexual assault 📍 Website: https://www.therefugeutah.org 📞 24-Hour Crisis Line: (801) 377-5500 🇺🇸 National Domestic Violence Hotline 📞 Call or Text: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) 💬 Chat: https://www.thehotline.org 💜 RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) 📞 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) 💬 Online Chat: https://www.rainn.org 🧠 Postpartum Support International 📞 Call or Text: 1-800-944-4773 (EN/ES) 🌐 https://www.postpartum.net ⚠️ Disclaimer This podcast is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local emergency services. 🎧 Listen & Follow Listen on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify Lyndsey’s Socials: @living.inthe.aftermath @lyndseyh6723 Shelby's Socials: @shelb.ozzy

    39 min

  7. Mar 7

    Why Survivors Stay: The Truth About Domestic Abuse

    In this episode of Living in the Aftermath, Lyndsey sits down with fellow survivor Jennie for a deeply honest conversation about what life inside an abusive relationship really looks like — and why leaving isn’t as simple as people think. Together, they unpack the uncomfortable questions survivors hear all the time: “Why didn’t you leave?” “Why did you stay?” The truth is far more complicated. From grooming and manipulation to survival tactics and the lasting effects of trauma, this conversation sheds light on the realities of domestic violence that often remain hidden behind closed doors. Lyndsey and Jennie talk openly about fear, survival, motherhood, the justice system, and the long road to healing — including the difficult truth that trauma doesn’t simply disappear once you escape it. They also discuss the cultural narratives that shape relationships, the pressure to maintain the illusion of a “perfect life,” and the importance of raising the next generation to value respect, boundaries, and empathy. This episode is raw, emotional, and honest. But most importantly, it is a reminder that survivors are not alone — and that healing, community, and hope can exist on the other side of unimaginable pain. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, help is available. The organizations below offer confidential support, crisis counseling, and resources. Jennie's Socials: https://www.instagram.com/shesjaycee/ https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jaycee/1837980516 ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, and abusive relationships. Listener discretion is advised. Resources & Support If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to one of the following confidential resources: The Refuge Utah A nonprofit organization providing shelter, advocacy, counseling, and support services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. 24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 801-377-5500 24-Hour Sexual Assault Hotline: 801-356-2511 Main Office: 1433 E 840 N, Orem, UT 84097 Office Phone: 801-227-5038 Website: https://therefugeutah.org The Refuge provides confidential shelter, crisis support, therapy, advocacy, and transitional housing for survivors and their children. National Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and resources. 📞 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) 💬 Text START to 88788 🌐 https://www.thehotline.org RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) The nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization offering confidential support. 📞 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) 🌐 https://www.rainn.org Podcast Disclaimer The Living in the Aftermath podcast shares personal stories of trauma, survival, and healing. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and are intended for educational and awareness purposes. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, legal, or mental health advice. If you are in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services.

    1h 6m

  8. Feb 23

    Because of Jane: When Imagination Was My Survival

    In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Shannon shares her journey of surviving childhood abuse by retreating into her imagination and finding ways to cope when the world around her felt unsafe. She opens up about the ways she made sense of her pain, how storytelling and imagination became tools of survival, and the long road toward healing and reclaiming her voice. This conversation explores why hope and resilience can coexist with trauma — and how healing doesn’t happen in a straight line. Whether you’re someone navigating your own healing journey or a supporter of someone who is, this episode offers insight into trauma, resilience, and the strength it takes to tell your story out loud. ⚠️ DisclaimerThis podcast episode and accompanying description are for informational and educational purposes only. They are not medical, legal, or professional advice. Every individual’s experience with trauma and healing is unique — if you are struggling, please reach out to qualified professionals and crisis support services listed above or contact local emergency services as needed. If you’re outside the United States, local national hotlines and supports are available — contact your local emergency number or search for crisis services in your area. 🌿 Resources for Survivors & SupportNational Support (United States)• National Domestic Violence Hotline 📞 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) / Text START to 88788 🌐 https://www.thehotline.org/ • RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) 📞 1.800.656.HOPE (4673) — National Sexual Assault Hotline 🌐 https://www.rainn.org/ • National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health 🌐 https://ncdvtmh.org/ • Pandora’s Project (Online Survivor Community) 🌐 https://pandys.org/ • 1in6 (Support for Male Survivors) 🌐 https://1in6.org/ • The Refuge Utah — Comprehensive Survivor Support & Shelter Services 📞 Survivor Support Line: 888.945.3288 🌐 https://www.therefugeutah.org/ Support includes crisis intervention, shelter resources, counseling, advocacy, and community outreach for survivors of domestic violence and abuse. • Utah Domestic Violence Coalition (UDVC) 📞 1.800.897.LINK (5465) — LINKLine 🌐 https://udvc.org/ • YWCA Salt Lake City — Domestic Violence & Crisis Services 📞 Main Line: 801.537.8600 or Toll-Free: 1.855.YWCA.SLC (992.2752) 🌐 https://www.ywcautah.org/ If you or someone is in immediate danger, call 911. If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, emotional distress, or thoughts of self-harm: 📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 (U.S.) 🌐 https://988lifeline.org/

    46 min
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4.8
out of 5
16 Ratings

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Living in the Aftermath is a podcast by a domestic violence survivor, sharing raw and honest conversations about life after trauma. Each episode explores healing, resilience, and the real work of rebuilding. Featuring voices of survivors and the people who’ve walked with us. You’re not alone! This is what healing out loud looks like.

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