In this episode of Trauma Candy Salad, we’re diving into stories that explore how quickly “normal” situations can turn unsafe—and what it looks like to survive them.

Amber shares what started as a typical teenage job at the mall… until a much older coworker crossed every boundary. What began as “just being friendly” escalated into stalking behavior that left her feeling unsafe at work—until her dad stepped in.

Susie Q recounts a terrifying moment of domestic violence that happened while she was behind the wheel—an argument that turned physical in seconds and ended in a crash, injury, and criminal consequences.

Wren opens up about life after leaving an abusive marriage, including ongoing co-parenting struggles, court battles, and the emotional toll of protecting her children while navigating manipulation, religious control, and a child caught between two conflicting realities.

These stories highlight how abuse can show up in different forms—workplace harassment, intimate partner violence, and post-separation control—and how survival often looks like making impossible decisions in real time.

As always, we hold space for the heavy… and still leave room for a little sweetness.

🍬 Today’s candy picks: Swedish Fish, Hershey’s with Almonds, Nerd Clusters

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⚠️ Trigger Warnings:

This episode contains discussions of:

* Workplace harassment & stalking

* Domestic violence

* Physical assault

* Child abuse

* Emotional & psychological abuse

* Religious manipulation

* Co-parenting conflict

Listener discretion is advised.

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📌 Resources & Support:

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you’re not alone. Support is available:

* National Domestic Violence Hotline

    Call: 1-800-799-7233

    Text: START to 88788

    Chat: thehotline.org

* RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

    Call: 800-656-HOPE

    Online chat available at rainn.org

* Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

    Call/Text: 1-800-4-A-CHILD

    Chat: childhelphotline.org

* If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

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💌 Want to share your story or be featured on the show?

Submit here: https://www.traumacandysalad.com/submit-a-story

📱 Follow us: @TraumaCandySaladPod on Instagram, TikTok & Facebook