Almost Oblivious

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we hear from a survivor, Alice, who opens up about navigating domestic abuse while living with a disability—a topic too often left out of the conversation. From growing up in an abusive home to enduring emotional manipulation and isolation in her first adult relationship, her story sheds light on the unique challenges disabled survivors face, and the resilience it takes to reclaim your life after trauma.

She shares how people often labeled her “brave” just for existing in public, how abusers weaponized her disability to gain praise from others, and how grieving the loss of a loved one became the turning point that led her toward freedom. With honesty, heart, and strength, she invites us into a deeply personal journey of loss, survival, healing, and the unexpected joy of discovering what true safety and love can feel like.

This episode is a reminder that survival looks different for everyone—but hope, healing, and independence are possible for everyone. Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or advocate, this story is one you’ll never forget.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, ableism, depression, and grief.

🔗 Resources and support can be found on our website at almostoblivious.com
🎧 Don't forget to share, rate, and review to help us break the silence on domestic violence.

If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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"If we want to break the cycle of domestic violence, it starts with education. It starts with bold conversations. It starts with us.”

Teen dating violence is happening far more often than most people realize—and the silence surrounding it is costing lives. In this episode of Almost Oblivious, Autumn Baker confronts the harsh reality that 1 in 12 U.S. high school students report being physically hurt by someone they’re dating, and 1 in 3 teens will experience dating violence before they become adults—and those are just the ones who speak up. Only 33% of teens ever told anyone about the abuse.

We explore the warning signs, the psychological toll, and the often-overlooked world of digital abuse—from social media stalking to pressure for explicit photos. Autumn shares her reflection on how a lack of education in her teen years kept her vulnerable to abuse later in life.

“Even if it feels awkward, talking openly shows teens they can trust you and turn to you without fear of judgment.”

Whether you're a parent, a teen, or someone who works with youth, this episode arms you with knowledge and resources to open up conversations that could truly save lives.

What they don’t know can hurt them. But what we teach today? That could save their tomorrow.

“Silence can lead to Ignorance, and Ignorance can be dangerous”.

Resources:

🔗 Love Is Respect
Resources, quizzes, and 24/7 text/chat support for teens and parents.
🌐 https://www.loveisrespect.org
📱 Text “LOVEIS” to 22522

🔗 Break the Cycle
Empowers youth to end domestic violence with education and advocacy.
🌐 https://www.breakthecycle.org

🔗 The National Domestic Violence Hotline
Available 24/7 with confidential support.
🌐 https://www.thehotline.org
📞 Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

🔗 One Love Foundation
Educational content and videos about healthy vs. unhealthy relationships.
🌐 https://www.joinonelove.org

If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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REWIND Episode 08: Red Flags!

Enjoy this rewind episode and I'll see you all next week for a new episode! Remember to like, share and leave a review!

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we shine a light on the subtle and overt warning signs of domestic abuse. From patterns of control and manipulation to the dangers of love bombing and isolation, we uncover the behaviors that often go unnoticed until it's too late. Whether you're navigating a challenging relationship or supporting someone who might be, this 20-minute deep dive will help you recognize the signs and take action.

Resources:

⁠https://nnedv.org/content/red-flags-of-abuse/⁠

⁠https://www.thehotline.org/resources/know-the-red-flags-of-abuse/⁠

⁠https://health.clevelandclinic.org/domestic-abuse-how-to-spot-relationship-red-flags⁠

⁠https://sayitoutloud.org.au/abusive-relationships/are-you-being-abused/warning-signs/?state=al⁠

⁠https://www.med.unc.edu/beacon/wp-content/uploads/sites/598/2018/03/redflagabusivepersonality.pdf⁠

For more information please check out our website!

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If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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Leaving an abusive relationship isn’t the end of the story—it’s the beginning of a new one. But what happens after? How do you heal when trauma lingers? How do you rebuild a life that was once controlled by someone else?

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, I, Autumn Baker, share my personal journey of healing, the struggles I faced, and the small victories that helped me move forward. From rediscovering my identity to learning how to trust again, I talk about the reality of life after abuse—what helped me, what made it harder, and what I wish more people understood.

We’ll dive into the psychological effects of trauma bonding, PTSD, and self-doubt, as well as the incredible power of community, therapy, and self-love. Whether you’re a survivor, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to understand more, this episode is filled with truth, encouragement, and hope.

✨ Healing takes time, but it is possible.
💜 You are not alone.

Additional resources are located on our website!

If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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We discuss:

• What self-worth truly means and why it’s not based on achievements.
• How abusers destroy self-worth through gaslighting, criticism, and control.
• Practical steps to reclaim your self-worth after trauma.
• Relearning who you are and discovering your identity beyond the abuse.
• Daily habits that reinforce self-worth in everyday life.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. There are resources and support available to help you heal and rediscover your value.

Resources:

• Brown, B. (2010). The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are. – A powerful book on vulnerability and self-worth.
• Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror. – A foundational text on trauma recovery.
• Walker, L. E. (1979). The Battered Woman. – The psychology behind domestic abuse and its effects on self-esteem.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline. "Gaslighting: How Abusers Manipulate Their Victims." – https://www.thehotline.org
• Psychology Today. "Self-Worth vs. Self-Esteem: What’s the Difference?" – https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/self-esteem
• Mental Health America. "Rebuilding Self-Worth After Trauma." – https://www.mhanational.org
• Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. – A deep dive into how trauma affects self-worth and healing.

If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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Domestic abuse shelters can be a lifeline for survivors, but misconceptions and fear often keep people from seeking help. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know—what shelters are really like, how to prepare if you’re thinking about going, and common myths that stop people from reaching out.

We’ll also discuss why shelters are so vital, the challenges they face, and how we can all help keep these safe havens running. Whether you or someone you love needs this information, this episode is packed with resources and reassurance.

📢 Listen now & share—it could save a life.

Resource:

• https://www.domesticshelters.org/

If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we explore one of the most dangerous realities of domestic abuse—when it escalates to homicide. Abuse doesn’t always start with physical violence, but when it does, the warning signs are often there. We break down the stages of escalation, key risk factors, and the terrifying reality that when a gun is involved, the chance of homicide increases by 500%.

We also discuss the psychology of victims—why they stay, why they defend their abuser, and how trauma bonding keeps them trapped in dangerous relationships. Using real-life cases, including the heartbreaking story of Gabby Petito, we examine how abuse can be overlooked until it’s too late.

If you or someone you love is in an abusive relationship, please know that help is available. This episode includes resources for safety planning, support, and escaping high-risk situations.

🚨 If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline:800-799-7233
🌎 Find local shelters & legal aid:www.thehotline.org

Resources:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline – www.thehotline.org

• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) – www.ncadv.org

• CDC Report on Homicide & Domestic Violence – www.cdc.gov

• Statistics on Strangulation & Homicide Risk – www.allianceforhope.com

• Firearm & Intimate Partner Homicide Data – www.everytownresearch.org

  
  

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This episode is just a brief introduction to stalking. Stalking is a complex and multifaceted crime, and while we cover key points, there is always more to learn. Listen in with Autumn Baker, as she touches the various types of stalking and how to keep yourself safe. If you're experiencing stalking, please seek support from professionals and legal resources. Stalking laws can vary by state!

Resources:

In this episode ofAlmost Oblivious, host Autumn Baker tackles one of the most misunderstood questions surrounding domestic abuse:"Why didn't they just leave?" Leaving an abusive relationship is far more complex than it seems, with psychological, financial, social, and legal barriers making escape incredibly difficult—and sometimes even dangerous. We’ll explore how trauma affects the brain, why survivors stay, and what ultimately helps them break free. Featuring survivor stories, expert insights, and practical ways to support those in abusive situations, this episode sheds light on the realities of domestic violence and the importance of understanding before passing judgment.

Resources:

• https://psychcentral.com/blog/liberation/2017/10/long-term-narcissistic-abuse-can-cause-brain-damage#1

• https://illinoisrecoverycenter.com/effects-of-emotional-abuse-on-the-brain/

• https://blueboatcounseling.com/victims-of-abuse-6-reasons-why-they-dont-just-leave/

• https://www.thehotline.org/support-others/why-people-stay-in-an-abusive-relationship/#:~:text=Survivors%20may%20be%20financially%20dependent,to%20leave%20an%20abusive%20situation.

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9931748/

  
  

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In this powerful episode of Almost Oblivious, we share the courageous journey of a domestic violence survivor who found the strength to break free and rebuild her life. From the early warning signs to the heartbreaking realities of abuse, she opens up about the struggles she faced, the moment she decided to leave, and how faith and resilience guided her to a new beginning.

We also discuss the importance of sharing your story. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-799-7233 or by texting “START” to 88788.

Tune in to hear this survivor’s inspiring story and join us in breaking the silence on domestic violence. 💜

For more information please check out our website!

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If you would like to submit your story or be a guest speaker, please submit a form here! If there are any topics that you think should be covered, please reach out to us!

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