Beyond the Monsters

Sarah shares the heartbreaking story of her son, Logan, whose lifelong battle with mental illness and psychosis ended in tragedy. From her experience as a teen mom navigating life alone and the challenges she faced during pregnancy, to Logan’s early struggles with voices and night terrors, Sarah opens up about grief, mental health, and the stigma surrounding suicide loss. Her story is a raw reflection on healing, motherhood, and the enduring bond between a parent and child.

Through her honesty, she sheds light on the silent pain so many families face and the importance of compassion, awareness, and acknowledging grief without judgment. This conversation reminds us that even in the depths of loss, love still finds a way to speak.

It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine

https://a.co/d/f0pMKu3

Mental Health Resources:

Crisis Text Line

741741

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After surviving a brutal sexual assault in 2011, Angelique refused to let her story end in silence. In this raw and powerful episode, she opens up about the day she was attacked by a serial rapist in Gainesville, Florida — the fight for her life, the trauma that followed, and the system that failed to deliver justice.

Angelique speaks openly about the trauma of sexual violence, the realities of victim-blaming, and the deep cracks within a legal system that too often protects offenders over survivors. She exposes how rape kits sit untested, how alcohol and advocacy collide in spaces meant to be “safe,” and how many survivors are left without justice or support.

But this isn’t just a story of what was taken; it’s about what she built after. Angelique found sobriety, purpose, and a mission to create trauma-informed, survivor-centered spaces where healing is possible. Her voice has become a force in sexual assault awareness and survivor advocacy, challenging the culture of silence and calling out the systems that need to change.

Colorado’s Rape Kit Backlog Gofundme

https://gofund.me/50413c11

Resources:

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

24/7 confidential support, online chat & hotline 

1-800-656-HOPE

https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/

NSVRC (National Sexual Violence Resource Center)

https://www.nsvrc.org

Crisis Text Line

741741

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After being medically discharged from the Air Force due to Crohn’s disease, Destynie’s life was turned upside down. Crohn’s disease (a chronic, debilitating autoimmune disorder) took away her career and nearly took her life. What followed was a decade-long battle not only with her own body but with the military healthcare system and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that were supposed to protect her.

Destynie opens up about losing over 60 pounds in nine months, facing multiple hospitalizations and surgeries, and enduring years of pain while fighting for proper medical recognition. She shares how the system dismissed her suffering, how she learned to advocate for herself, and what it took to finally be heard.

This episode shines a light on the realities of living with severe Crohn’s disease, the failures of veteran healthcare, and the strength it takes to keep fighting when your illness—and the system—try to silence you.

Crohn’s Disease & Autoimmune Support:

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation (CCF)

https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org

Global Healthy Living Foundation – IBD Support

https://ghlf.org

Veteran Advocacy & Legal Aid Resources:

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

https://www.dav.org

National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP)

https://www.nvlsp.org

Wounded Warrior Project – Benefits & Advocacy

https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Veterans Legal Institute

https://www.vetslegal.com

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee Alexander shares his powerful journey from military service to surviving the unseen battles that followed. A U.S. Navy veteran who later served in the Army National Guard, Lee spent years deployed in the Middle East and Mogadishu, Somalia, working as a criminal investigator aboard the USS Ranger. After injuries forced him to leave active duty, he grappled with PTSD, survivor’s guilt, and the silence surrounding mental health in the armed forces.

When the Humvee carrying the soldier who replaced him hit an IED, killing everyone inside, Lee was consumed by guilt — struggling with nightmares and the feeling that he had no right to speak about his pain. He opens up about the night he almost ended his life, the friend whose unexpected text saved him, and the importance of connection and support for veterans who often suffer in silence.

Writing became his turning point. What began as private notes evolved into poetry and fiction that helped him heal. Today, Lee is a published author of a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired novel (The Fortuitous Few), a dark Victorian fantasy series (The Damien Blackwell Chronicles), and a poetry collection titled In the Obsidian Mirror, I Remain: Reflections of a Fractured Soul, which explores trauma, reflection, and recovery. His short story Writing in the Shadows was also recognized by Writer’s Digest.

Now working in IT and military simulation training, Lee continues to advocate for veteran mental health, creative healing, and the power of storytelling. 

Lee’s Websites and Social Media:

https://shadowpagespressllc.com

https://www.instagram.com/leea.writes

Storytellers Convention: https://onceuponeverystorycon.com

Lee’s Books:

In The Obsidian Mirror, I Remain: Reflections of a Fractured Soul

(Available on Amazon)

https://a.co/d/gnqRHVY

Shadows of the Past: The Damien Blackwell Chronicles - International Reader’s Choice Award 

(Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble)

https://a.co/d/g8HxubD

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shadows-of-the-past-lee-alexander/1146110569?ean=9798991136006

Echoes of Dark and Light: The Damien Blackwell Chronicles

(Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble)

https://a.co/d/2Ur1lGX

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/echoes-of-dark-and-light-lee-alexander/1147052734?ean=9798991136020

The Fortuitous Few

(Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble)

https://a.co/d/78SrAsO

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-fortuitous-few-lee-alexander/1146878393?ean=9798991136082

Writing in the Shadows - Writer's Digest Annual Award Nomination 

Veteran PTSD Resources:

https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ptsd/next-step.asp

Combat Call Center: (877)WAR-VETS

PTSD Foundation of America -Veteran Line: (877)717-PTSD

https://ptsdusa.org

Mental Health Resources:

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Laura’s story is a haunting look at the hidden realities of domestic violence — and the systems that fail survivors. She opens up about falling in love with a man who slowly stripped away her confidence through manipulation, gaslighting, and control. What began as subtle red flags turned into emotional and physical terror, leaving her fighting to reclaim her sense of safety and self-worth. As a trained martial artist and health advocate, Laura reflects on the painful irony of being both strong and trapped as well as how abusers exploit empathy, guilt, and love to maintain power.

Laura takes us through the aftermath, the failed trial that never gave her closure, the retraumatization within the legal system, and the painful silence from a community that protected her abuser. She discusses the generational patterns of abuse within her family, the importance of therapy, and the long journey of rebuilding trust in herself. Laura’s courage to speak out gives voice to countless survivors who were silenced by fear or disbelief. Her story is not just about violence; it’s about reclaiming autonomy, exposing injustice, and reminding others that healing begins when you finally refuse to be quiet.

National Domestic Violence Hotline

800-799-7233

Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center

https://dvsacenter.org

U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program

Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.

https://www.findhelp.org

https://www.domesticshelters.org

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Melisa shares the heart-wrenching story of her ex-partner Alex’s motorcycle accident that left him quadriplegic after being struck by a Grubhub driver. In the aftermath, she faced not only the devastation of ICU visits and breaking the news to her daughter, but also the unraveling of family trust.

As Alex’s girlfriend stepped in as his caretaker, Melisa describes how she cut him off from loved ones, took control through a secret marriage, power of attorney, and a new will, and left the family fighting for access, truth, and justice. This powerful conversation explores love, betrayal, and the painful reality of losing someone not just to tragedy, but also to deception and control.

Justice for Alex and His Children Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567689483408

Flag to Remember Foundation

https://flagtoremember.com/

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Savannah, a police officer and military veteran, shares her story of sacrifice, betrayal, and survival. After giving up her entire life in Washington to move to Chicago for marriage, she quickly discovered her husband was not the man she thought he was. Once married, he became emotionally abusive and revealed struggles with cheating, drug addiction, and sex addiction, leaving Savannah to navigate devastating betrayal and the painful unraveling of the life she had built.

Her journey reaches further back into a childhood shaped by domestic violence and family dysfunction, where she learned patterns that influenced her adult relationships and left her vulnerable to manipulation. Savannah reflects on how family betrayal, military service, and her role as a police officer all intersected with the trauma she carried—and how she found the strength to reclaim her boundaries, self-worth, and future. Her story exposes the realities of toxic family dynamics, generational trauma, and emotional abuse, while shining a light on the resilience it takes to heal, rebuild, and rise stronger.

Savannah’s Book: In the Wake of Wounds

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FPRNYMZ6?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_9ANEMFQ0X0EZ1PNM0Q7T

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clair’s life began in chaos—raised by a father who fabricated shocking lies about his family being murdered and a mother who was later deported. Her childhood was marked by deception, abandonment, and the weight of secrets no child should carry. As she grew older, Clair uncovered more truths about her family’s past, while navigating the pain of loss, strained relationships, and the emotional toll of addiction.

She shares what it was like to grow up with a mother battling alcoholism and a father whose life was cut short in a car accident when she was young. She reflects on the dark moments where she questioned whether life was worth continuing—and the resilience it took to keep going. Today, Clair is rewriting the narrative, determined to raise her daughter with honesty, empathy, and a safe space to express her emotions.

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After growing up in Trenton, New Jersey, Prince broke the cycle and built a life defined by discipline and service; first in the Army, then as a Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer. Ten years into his career, everything changed when a drunk driver hit him, forcing an abrupt medical retirement.

While facing the aftermath of the crash, Prince was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD. Instead of breaking, he rebuilt—returning to school, earning multiple degrees, and ultimately completing his doctorate in criminal justice. Today, he uses his lived experience and education to teach the next generation as a college professor, while continuing to speak openly about mental health, resilience, and overcoming trauma.

Prince has transformed his pain into purpose advocating for mental health awareness in law enforcement and veteran communities while proving that it’s possible to rise from loss stronger than before. From losing the identity he once clung to, to finding purpose beyond the badge, his story is proof that resilience is possible even when the world falls apart.

Prince’s Socials and Links

https://instagram.com/realprinceblue

https://x.com/realprinceblue3

https://tiktok.com/@realprinceblue

https://www.linkedin.com/in/prince-blue

Email: [email protected]

Real Time with Prince Blue Podcast 

https://www.youtube.com/@realprinceblue

Black and Blue Lives Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-and-blue-lives/id1574245761

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Misti Blu Day shares her powerful story of surviving both childhood trauma and life-threatening health battles. Growing up in a home marked by abuse, alcoholism, and trauma bonds, she learned early on what it meant to live in survival mode. Later in life, she faced congenital heart issues, dangerous arrhythmias, and multiple open-heart surgeries — first in 2011, again seven years later, and most recently just three years ago. She also lives with Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a connective tissue disorder, and Wolff–Parkinson–White Syndrome (WPW), a rare heart condition that causes abnormal rhythms.

Her journey highlights the connection between trauma, chronic illness, and the fight to reclaim life after repeated medical emergencies. From navigating grief and gaslighting to waking up after open-heart surgery with a second chance, Misti’s story is one of raw honesty, resilience, and hope.

This episode dives into themes of childhood abuse, trauma recovery, resilience, congenital heart disease, open-heart surgery, healing after medical trauma, PTSD, abuse survival, and overcoming adversity.

Misti’s Socials and Links

https://www.instagram.com/mistibluday

https://mistibludream.com/

Books:

Botanical Rebellion: Apothecary Guide to Nature's Alchemy

https://a.co/d/7kyZwn3

Garden of Blu

https://a.co/d/5EUPCAZ

Botanical Rebellion Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/botanical-rebellion/id1802984202

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:

https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153

Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.