When Dating Hurt‪s‬ Bill Mitchell

Morris Township (NJ) Lt. Heather Glogolich and I met during an all-day conference on domestic violence in October 2020. We were so impressed with each other’s presentations that day we knew we needed to come together and do something. This podcast episode is a strong start. 

On October 16th, 2008, Heather's life changed forever when she became the victim of intense emotional and physical abuse by her husband—who was also a police officer. Instead of succumbing to feelings of hopelessness, she used this as an opportunity to find her strength. Heather took that horrific experience and turned it into her calling. She now advocates for victims of domestic violence by offering resources and speaking to people all over the country.

Listen to Heather's story—and all she has learned about the insidious epidemic known as domestic violence. If DV can happen to Heather, it can happen to anyone.  

In 2015, I met Carla Clanagan at domestic-violence related events. Besides her limitless work in the domestic violence field, Carla is also the founder of "In His Eyes", an organization committed to helping women labeled as ex-offenders. In 2017, Carla's daughter, MacKenzie, was brutally attacked by an ex-boyfriend. She was very fortunate to survive. After much rehabilitation, MacKenzie is now using her tragedy to speak out on intimate partner violence. Carla has dedicated her life to helping young women stay safe from the epidemic we both know only too well as dating violence. 

Patrisha McLean was married to a world-renowned singer for 29 years. It started out as a fairytale relationship but devolved into a 24/7 nightmare. Like many survivors, it took Patrisha a very long time before she recognized it as classic domestic violence. Getting out almost cost Patrisha her life. This episode teaches volumes about what can happen to anyone who doesn't know the warning signs—and what to do when they are detected. 

On June 3, 2005, Detective Jim McGowan was the first person who contacted me with knowledge about what happened to my daughter.  Earlier that day, he interviewed Kristin's murderer—her ex-boyfriend, Nick. Over the years, I've gained invaluable insights from Jim about why abusers do what they do, and why abused women stay in these dangerous relationships. Jim shares this and so much more on this "When Dating Hurts" episode. It's a "must-listen" for parents, friends, and families of women who are, or might be, in unhealthy relationships. This episode could save someone's life. 

Hi "When Dating Hurts" listeners, 

I was recently interviewed by Jerusha Mack for Halton Women's Place, located in Ontario, Canada. I felt our interview was so comprehensive, I asked if I could share it with our "When Dating Hurts" podcast listeners. Ms. Mack, a licensed teacher and a public education team lead on Halton's Violence Prevention and Community Education team, graciously said yes. . 

Halton Women’s Place provides shelter and crisis services for physically, emotionally, financially, and sexually abused women and their dependent children. They are dedicated to ending violence against women and their children.

Thanks to Jerusha and Halton Women's Place and for helping me get this lifesaving information out to you. 

I met "Caitlyn" in the fall of 2009 before I gave a speech about my daughter's murder caused by her ex-boyfriend. What Caitlyn told me was the most horrific story I had ever heard. It still takes my breath away. Recently, I was fortunate to conduct an interview with her. Caitlyn's story shows how bad domestic violence can get, but it also demonstrates how strong a determined woman can be. There is no person who I respect more than this woman.