Taboo Talk with Sarah

Episode 21 When Love Turns Controlling: Alyson’s Brave Escape from Coercive Abuse


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💡 Top Takeaways:
  • Coercive control isn’t always visible—but it’s dangerously real.

     
  • Gaslighting + neurodivergence creates a toxic double-bind of self-doubt.

     
  • Leaving an abuser can be the most dangerous and difficult step.

     
  • Support systems often fail—but hope lives in advocacy and connection.

     
  • Healing starts with reclaiming your voice and trusting your reality.

     

 

 

🗣️ Memorable Quotes:

“No bruises, no broken bones—but there is a breaking down of your identity, your voice, your spirit.” — Sarah Jordan-Ross

“They punish the children because they want to hurt you… it’s not about love—it’s about control.” — Alyson Richelle

“Don’t doubt yourself. What you’re experiencing and feeling is the truth.” — Alyson Richelle

 

⏱️ Key Moments & Timestamps:
  • 00:00 – Introduction to Alyson and the topic of coercive control

     
  • 01:30 – What coercive control felt like inside the relationship

     
  • 06:00 – How neurodivergence compounded gaslighting and emotional abuse

     
  • 11:30 – The terrifying logistics and emotional toll of leaving an abuser

     
  • 19:49 – Post-separation abuse and the continued control through systems

     
  • 22:25 – Rebuilding self-trust, reclaiming voice, and discovering resilience

     
  • 30:00 – Tips, tactics, and coded safety strategies for women trying to escape

     
  • 35:00 – Sarah’s personal story of nearly walking away—and what changed

     
  • 41:48 – Final encouragement: help is out there, and you’re not alone

     
👥 Guest Highlight:

Alyson Richelle – Mum, neurodivergent woman, survivor, and fierce advocate for those trapped in invisible cycles of emotional abuse. She now supports others globally with connections and safety planning.
📲 Connect with Alyson via links in the show notes (include when posting live)

 

🌱 Resources Mentioned:
  • Crisis accommodation services

     
  • Libertas International

     
  • Local and international domestic violence support networks

     
  • Tips on creating a covert safety plan and emergency cash strategies

     
🎧 Call to Action:

If something in this episode resonated with you—please don’t stay silent.
Reach out. Share this episode.
DM Sarah or Alyson. There’s help available, and you are not alone.
✨ Subscribe, leave a review, and join us next week as we break more silence and foster more hope.

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Taboo Talk with SarahBy Sarah Jordan-Ross