Speaking Out on Financial Abuse

Mr. Jay, relationship coach and betrayal trauma practitioner, discusses his background and shares his approach to dealing with betrayal trauma during the holidays.  He details his personal experiences of growing up with financial instability and the impact of his parents' behaviors on his relationship with money.  Mr. Jay emphasizes the importance of self-forgiveness and healing before making major decisions post-betrayal.  He advises setting boundaries, practicing grounding techniques, and maintaining self care.  He also talks in depth about keeping a holiday journal and focusing on creating meaningful memories instead of material gifts.  Mr. Jay also discusses his upcoming plans for '26 and the launching of a betrayal trauma course for a local university.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Mr. Jay, relationship coach, educator and public speaker, highlights his background as a native of New York State and his enjoyment of his home town area.  He reflects on his childhood, describing his parents' financial irresponsibility and the impact it had on his family, including frequent moves due to financial instability.  Mr. Jay details his mother's overspending combined with his father's strict upbringing, which taught him the importance of earning what he wanted, even at a young age.  He shares personal anecdotes about his struggles, including having to collect cans for bus money to attend college without parental financial assistance, and reflects on   Mr. Jay explains the difference between stress and trauma, emphasizing that trauma overwhelms coping mechanisms.  He defines betrayal trauma as trauma caused by a primary attachment figure, such as a parent or a spouse, and discusses the unique challenges of healing betrayal trauma.  Mr. Jay advises listeners to set boundaries and not attend events that cause stress, emphasizing the importance of self care during the holidays.  He suggests several mental techniques to cope with triggering events and comments from holiday family members: keeping a holiday journal to manage thoughts and emotions, imagining oneself as a super hero, and engaging in activities that feed the soul.  Mr. Jay emphasizes the importance of self forgiveness and treating past traumas in order to heal the present.  He details suggestions for setting boundaries with family members during the holidays and the challenges of receiving support from family when disclosing relationship issues.  Mr. Jay shares his approach to New Year's resolutions, focusing on personal growth and self-improvement.    LINKS:  Mr. Jay Relationship Coach Web Site   www.financialabusehelp.net     

Ana Jimenez, Case Manager and Advocate with Family Resource Center in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands, discusses the growth of domestic abuse resources throughout the island communities and how resources are provided for victims and survivors of abuse.  The center, serving St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix and Water Islands, has been operational for nearly 40 years.  It provides shelter, counseling and advocacy for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, human trafficking and elder abuse.  The center also addresses financial abuse, a critical issue often overlooked.   Ana explains how Family Resource Center raises awareness as well as critical funds to support Virgin Island communities in preventing domestic abuse as well as providing urgent resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Ana emphasizes the importance of community education and support for all of Virgin Island's many communities.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Ana shares that she is in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, and provides a brief overview of the islands, including St. Croix and St. John.  Ana discusses her transition from law enforcement to counseling, including her education at University of Virgin Islands and Liberty University.  Ana explains her envolvement with the Family Resource Center, which started as a vision to protect women and children.  She highlights the center's services, including counseling, shelter and advocacy for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, human trafficking, elder abuse and various violent crimes.  Ana explains the center's efforts to educate the community through outreach specialists who speak at schools, churches and businesses.  She elaborates on the concept of financial abuse as a form of domestic violence, emphasizing that it often goes unrecognized.  Ana provides details about the center's shelter services, which are available to women and children.  She highlights the need for food drives, fundraising events, and other community support to sustain the center's services.  Ana explains the center's involvement in various fundraising events, including Pets with Wings, and the importance of these events in raising awareness and funds for the center's operations.  Ana highlights the Peacemaker Gala, a formal event with a focus on domestic violence awareness. She describes the center's involvement in conducting workshops to train police recruits and workplaces employees.  Ana provides advise for victims who have not taken their first step to leave an abusive relationship, and offers her final thoughts on how survivors of abuse can look forward to a bright and hopeful future.    LINKS: Family Resource Center Web Site: Virgin Island Cities with Domestic Violence Programs:   www.financialabusehelp.net 

Today's guest, Meghan Scanlon, President and CEO of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, discusses her journey from Virginia to Connecticut, her involvement with social justice at an early age, and her career in advocacy. She highlights the CCADV's role in supporting 18 member organizations, providing advocacy, outreach and education, and running the statewide Domestic Violence Resource Hotline, CT Safe Connect.  Meghan details the challenges of fundraising, particularly the impact of federal funding cuts, and the importance of private fundraising. She shares her admiration for specific women mentors who have and continue to inspire her passion for advocacy on women's issues.     LINK:  Connect Coalition Against Domestic Violence     www.financialabusehelp.net     

Claire Holcombe, a domestic abuse advocate from the UK, recounts her journey from wanting to be an English teacher to working with homeless and abused women.  She details Women's Aid Luton's 50-year history, including its founding by feminist activists and a secret visit from Princess Diana.  The organization provides refuges, a helpline and support for children.  Claire emphsizes the challenges of financial abuse, the impact of cultural differences and the need for better funding and resources.  She also shares initiatives like fundraising campaigns and community support to enhance services for women and children escaping abuse. 

Kathy McAtee Young, a trauma-trained certified mental health coach, discusses her path from a survivor of an abusive marriage to a a trauma-informed coach and educator for survivors and victims of domestic violence.   She emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma, particularly the nervous system's response, and the need for somatic techniques in healing,  Kathy highlights the significance of educating oneself about abuse, recognizing symptoms like blame-shifting and gas lighting, and creating safetly plans.  She also stresses of the role of faith-based communities in addressing trauma and abuse, advocating for trauma-informed reponses and resources.  Kathy's mission is to provide survivors with the tools and support they need to heal and regain control of their lives.    LINKS:  https://www.kathymcateeyoung.com/ Kathy McAtee Young Email  www.financialabusehelp.net   

Joe Dillon, divorce mediator and co-founder of Equitable Mediation, discusses his background and the benefits of mediation over a litigated divorce.  He contrasts the aggressive, financially draining nature of litigated divorces with the cost effective, cooperative approach of mediation, which he has practiced for over two decades.  Joe emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and transparency, highlighting common issues like hidden debt and financial abuse.  He mentions his online courses on divorce mediation, which aim to educate clients on divorce preperation, negotiation tactics and emotional aspects.  Dillon's approach, which includes collaboration with his partner and wife, a divorce coach, aims to help clients reach agreements efficiently and minimalize emotional and financial strain.     KEY LINKS: Equitable Mediation Web Site Equitable Mediation Divorce Coaching   www.financialabusehelp.net       

Joy Ingram, CEO and Founder of Love & Joy, discusses her journey from Georgia to Virginia, where she began advocacy work for domestic violence survivors.  She highlights her roles at New Directions and RAFT, emphasizing the importance of supporting advocates to prevent burnout.  Joy also shares her personal experience as a survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault, which fueled her passion for advocacy.  She notes that over 60% of advocates in the field of domestic abuse are survivors themselves and need consistent self-care and systematic changes within non-profit organizations.  Joy plans to expand her Love & Joy consulting and workshop services to help and support more agencies and advocate organizations.     podscan_XQctfjlcpkhh1wKc66B364fotER2ajq KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Joy shares her background, born in Hawaii and raised in Rome, Georgia, before moving to Atlanta. She explains her move to Staunton, Virginia, through an early college entrance exam.  Joy recounts her midlife crisis in 2016, which led her to make a connnection with a woman at her church and who adopted her into her family.  Joy discusses her passion for helping survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, which began with her own experience.  Joy begins volunteering at a rape crisis center in Decatur, Georgia, and later at a crisis center in Atlanta.  She explains the New Beginnings organization and their programs and services.   Joy discusses the RAFT (Resilience for Advocates Through Foundational Training) and its mission to support advocates working in the domestic abuse fields.  She highlights the unique stresses faced by advocates, such as vicarious trauma from dealing with survivor issues throughout each working day.  Joy shares statistics that 61% of all advocates in the domestic abuse field are survivors of abuse themselves.  She discusses the importance of collaboration and communication between domestic violence agencies, sparking her idea to form her own consulting firm.  Joy explains her Love and Joy company and its place in supporting advocates in domestic abuse agencies, including workshops to prevent job burnout and promote self care.  She offers advice to survivors still in an abusive relationship as well as how to receive support after the end of the abusive partnership.    LINKS:  Love and Joy Facebook Page RAFT (Resilience for Advocates Through Foundational Training)    www.financialabusehelp.net   

Maisha Colter, CEO of AVDA in Texas,  discusses her extensive background in social work and law, emphasizing her transition from social work to law to better advocate for vulnerable populations, particularly children and women.  AVDA provides legal services for thousands every year, focusing on family court cases and economic abuse.  Maisha highlights the organizations BIPP program, which educates abusers on gender roles and communication, and its annual interfaith workshop to train faith leaders on supporting domestic violence survivors. AVDA also conducts various community outreach events and toy drives.   Maisha emphasizes the importance of safety planning and self-care for survivors.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Maisha shares her background and extensive travel due to parents' military careers. Maisha discusses her education history, starting with a bachelors' in policy studies and social work in New York.  She explains her decision to pursue social work instead of law, working with children in foster care and doing family reunification.  Maisha shares how her experiences as a social worker led her back to law school to finish her studies.  She discusses the benefits of having both social work and legal skills, particularly in advocating for vulnerable populations like women and children.  Maisha explains the evolution of domestic abuse support, particularly in recognizing and addressing financial abuse.  Maisha provides examples of economic abuse, which often involves isolation from financial decision making.  She outlines the legal services offered by AVDA (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse) including divorce, custody, child support and property issues.  Maisha explains in depth AVDA's BIPP program, which targets indivduals convicted on family violence crime, providing re-education on gender roles and communication.  Maisha discusses AVDA's Interfaith workship and vigil, to educate faith leaders in recognizing and support survivors of domestic abuse.  Maisha shares the challenges of reaching out to many diverse communities and the importance of culturally specific community organizations.  She mentions upcoming events and a gala in 2025.  Maisha emphasizes to survivors the importances of safety planning and seeking resources in advance of leaving, as well as after leaving the relationship.   She highlights that the survivor of domestic abuse needs continuing resources and support, which can be found through contacting a local domestic violence organization.     LINKS: AVDA Website  Battering Intervention & Prevention Program (BIPP) Interfaith Workshop & Vigil      www.financialabusehelp.net   

Rosie Watson discusses her work as Head of External Relations with the Domestic Abuse Alliance in the United Kingdom, focusing on reducing the time victims receive legal support from weeks to hours using the WEPROTECT app.   She highlights the recent United Kingdom law change recognizing coercive control as a criminal offense, now managed under multi-agency public protection arrangements.  Rosie emphasizes the hidden nature of domestic abuse, particularly financial abuse, and the importance of employer support.  The organization also provides interpretation and translation services to expand their effectiveness with a growing global population and is committed daily to bringing immediate legal support for domestic abuse survivors.     KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Rosie explains her initial involvement in the domestic abuse field through her work with Police and Crime Commissionors.  She details her transition to the Domestic Abuse Alliance and expresses gratitude for a platform to focus on global issues.  Rosie explains the historical view of domestic violence and the introduction of the coercive control law recently passed in the United Kingdom, including its details and effects on abusers.  She emphasizes the importance of the passing of the coercive control law, putting especially financial abuse on par with other forms of arrestable domestic violence offenses.  Rosie explains the development of the WEPROTECT app, which significantly reduces the time it takes victims to receive civil legal support.  She explains the WEPROTECT app is free to use police forces, frontline services and victims.  Rosie discusses the challengers of funding for support services and the new government's pledge to greatly reduce violence against women within the next 10 years.   She expresses her concerns about the continued use of means testing to verify services for domestic abuse victims.  Rosie elaborates on the need for employers and employees alike to receive domestic violence awareness training.  She explains how the recent pandemic was a perfect storm for domestic abuse perpetrators and victim survivors.    Rosie highlights the importance of creating safe spaces at work to start conversations about domestic abuse and empowering line managers and HR teams to support effected workers.  Rosie discusses the Domestic Abuse Alliance's upcoming fundraising and event plans.    LINKS:  Domestic Abuse Alliance Website  WEPROTECT App Information    www.financialabusehelp.net     

Windi, survivor and advocate from California, shares her journey of abuse and recovery.  She details her childhood, meeting her abusive partner after the tragic end to a previous engagement and the challenges of her marriage with a partner suffering from untreated PTSD and financial instability.  Windi highlights her efforts to protect and educate her children about domestic abuse, as well as her advocacy work in preventing gun violence.   Windi describes her passion for being an advocate for gun violence prevention after her own personal tragedy.   KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Windi shares her background, mentioning she was born in Los Angeles and raised in San Bernadino County, California.   Windi describes her childhood as typical middle class with both parents working multiple jobs.  Windi meets her future husband while both are driving on the freeway, where they exchange numbers and begin dating.  She describes her partner's family and backgroud, that he was spoiled and not financially very responsbile.  Windi details how her future husband told her he has no children and hopes to become married and a father soon.   Windi describes their early marriage and birth of their two children, including her husband's PTSD related financial and mental instabilities.  Windi talks about her unsuccessful attempts to get help for her husband through the Veterans medical system.  As her husband continues to decline, Windi discovers he has a child, born during their marriage to another woman and now serving child support papers and freezing their bank accounts and assets.  Windi discovers her husband is not providing support or even contacts a child he has hidden from her during their marriage.   Windi talks about choosing to go into a domestic violence shelter to leave her marriage with her children, and how the DV resources helped her during crisis.  Windi advises DV survivors about making a plan to escape an abusive partnership and going back to school once you are out of an abusive relationship.    LINKS:  Windi Joseph YouTube Channel  www.financialabusehelp.net    Windi with CA Rep. Mike Thompson and other advocates testifying on gun violence prevention.              www.financialabusehelp.net         

Sophora Acheson, Executive Director and Co-Board President of Ruby's Place, discusses her journey from Grass Valley, Califorinia, to Santa Rosa and developing a passion for helping survivors of domestic violence.  She shares her personal history of abuse and her career path, which led her to pioneer a program to reduce perpetrator violence called R.A.F.T. (Restorative Action for Family Transformation).  R.A.F.T. aims to address the root causes of domestic violence by providing accountability and trauma-informed care for abusers, while insuring survivors receive necessary support.  Sophora also details Ruby's Place's mobile health programs, serving nine Bay Area counties with basic medical services, dental care and education.     KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Sophora explains how her own experiences led her to become a licensed family and marriage therapist.  She describes how she found a job as a counselor at a local domestic violence shelter.  Sophora details her 14-year tenure with Ruby's Place, starting in direct service and eventually becoming executive director.  She shares the history of Ruby's Place, which was founded in the 1970's as the nation's first domestic violence shelter.  Introduction of the R.A.F.T. program and how its voluntary nature is the key to its success.  Sophora discusses the importance of accountability and the role of trauma in driving harmful behaviors.  Mobile health programs are discussed as an innovative way to bring basic health care and dental care to domestic abuse survivors.  Sophora discusses October's Domestic Violence Awareness Month and her plans for a public forum to gain feedback on the R.A.F.T. program.  Sophora gives advice to survivors on reaching out and that you are never alone.    Ruby's Place Website R.A.F.T. Program at Ruby's Place  Ruby's Place Facebook Page    www.financialabusehelp.net               

The Manitoba Association of Women's Shelters (MAWS) is a non-profit organization in Manitoba, Canada, dedicated to supporting survivors of gender-based violence through education, training and community collaboration.  Today, Amber Merucci, Project Specialist; Tsungai Muvingi, Provincial Coodinator and Maria Paz, Communication Specialist at MAWS, discuss their roles and the organization's rich history.  They emphasize MAW'S unique focus on provincial shelters and its committment to cultural humility and reconcilliation with indigenous communities.  Amber, Maria and Tsungai each highlight the challenges of working with diverse populations, including indigenous and immigrant communities. and the importance of providing accessible resources and training.  MAWS also collaborates with universities and legal communities to offer comprehensive support and education on gender-based violence.    Manitoba Association of Women's Shelters  List of Indigenous Tribes in Canada  Indigenous Peoples Statistics in Canada  History of Canada        www.financialabusehelp.net     

Sue, a court stenographer from Bayshore, New York, shares her harrowing experiences with financial and emotional abuse in her two marriages.  She details her first husband's lies and instability, leading to a short-lived marriage and his eventual death.  Her second husband, a successful financier with a beautiful mansion in Connecticut, was abusive, controlling her finances and eventually leading them both to an economic disaster.  Sue's life changed after volunteering for ECLIVES, where she now serves as a vice president and rape crisis counselor.  Sue emphasizes the importance of saving money, seeking support and focusing on self-care for those still in abusive relationships.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Sue shares her background, born in Brooklyn and living in suburban areas of New York City. She discusses her financial upbringing, describing her household as middle to upper middle class, with her father owning an insurance agency.  Sue describes her career as a court stenographer, a career she has held for over 35 years.  She recounts meeting her first husband and how it ended up a short-lived marriage after abuse and instability.  Sue reflects on her poor judgement in men and her low self esteem, which led her to stay in abusive relationships.  She meets her second husband, and describes his initial charm and financial success.  Sue details the abusive nature of her second marriage, including verbal and emotional abuse, and his complete control over her finances and access to money.  She shares a pivitol moment where her husband attacked her during an argument, leading to his arrest and their eventual divorce.   

Sybil Cummin, a licensed professional play therapist from Colorado, founded the Rising Beyond Power & Control podcast and resource website to address the gaps in support for survivors of abuse, particularly those with children.  She emphasizes the concept of post-separation abuse, where abuse continues after leaving an abusive partnership.  Sybil's community, designed for women, offers safety, privacy and support through live events, workshops and a private forum.  She advises survivors to create safety plans, gather documentation and seek support from safe individuals.  Sybil also highlights the importance of clear communication and documentation, especially in legal settings.  Her work includes advocating for legislative changes and raising awareness about financial abuse.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Sybil explains the origin of her podcast and website, also her unique background as a play therapist.  Sybil recognizes gaps in the resources for survivors of domestic violence, especially families sharing children with abuser.  The term "post-separation abuse" and examples of that behavior in an abusive partner.  Sybil highlights the legal abuse faced by survivors sharing children with their abusers.  Sybil explains the importance of meeting basic needs for healing and the additional challenges faced by those with no financial literacy.  The Rising Beyond community of women who have experienced domestic violence and narcissistic abuse - how it works and how it helps to heal relationship trauma.  Sybil outlines the opportunities for women recovering from abuse with the Rising Beyond membership including live events, workshops and a private peer support group where survivors can communicate and help one another.  Sybil discusses the challenges of building trust after experiencing abuse and the role of the community in helping survivors rebuild trust.  Sybil shares in involvement with legislation to impact family court and increase awareness about domestic violence.  She notes the positive changes in training and awareness within her university and the broader community.  Sybil encourages survivors to engage with her podcast and website to learn more about her work and resources.   LINKS & RESOURCES:  Rising Beyond Power & Control Website Rising Beyond Power & Control Podcast  Rising Beyond Power & Control Facebook Page   www.financialabusehelp.net     

Julia Foos, a Community Education Coordinator from the North Shore suburbs of Chicago,  discusses her role at Sarah's Inn, an organization dedicated to helping domestic violence survivors. Julia, who has a background in social work and gender studies, joined Sarah's Inn after discovering their podcast during COVID.   She highlights Sarah's Inn's comprehensive services, including crisis lines, counseling, legal aid and the PAIP program which helps perpetrators of domestic violence unlearn toxic behaviors.  Julia emphasizes the importance of addressing both survivors and perpetrators to prevent reoffending.  She also mentions Sarah's Inn TV, a digital platform launched during the pandemic to reach out to survivors and educate the public.  Julia describes methods to seek support and create safety plans for recovery from domestic abuse.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Julia shares her background, education and her involvement in various volunteering and leadership opportunities. Julia discusses her internships in elder care, youth exploitation prevention, suicide prevention and emphasizes her passion for women's rights and domestic violence advocacy.  Overview of Sarah's Inn's history and expansion as a critical Chicago resource.  Julia explains the PAIP program for perpetrators of domestic violence to help unlearn abusive and toxic behaviors.  Julia gives details about Sarah's Inn TV, a multi-media broadcasting resource for survivors of domestic violence.  Julia discusses upcoming plans and events for Sarah's Inn during 2025.  Julia gives advice to survivors of domestic violence who haven't left their relationship or have just recently left their abusive partnership.    LINKS AND RESOURCES:  Sarah's Inn Website  PAIP Program at Sarah's Inn  Sarah's Inn TV    www.financialabusehelp.net     

Stephanie Russell, a Community Educator for The Ark Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Shelter in Central Texas, discusses her journey from a retired nurse to an advocate for survivors of domestic violence.  She emphasizes the importance of individualized support, noting The Ark serves a diverse population including elderly and victims with pets.  Stephanie highlights the comprehensive service needs each survivor can require including legal assistance, financial planning and even kennel accomodations.  She emphasizes that victims of domestic violence need to prioritize safety and seek help, including post-separation support and community resources.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:    Stephanie finds her passion for helping survivors of domestic violence. An internship at The Ark Shelter leads to becoming a Community Educator to spread awareness about domestic violence.  Avoiding the one-size-fits-all approach in servicing a diverse population of victims with individual needs.  The steps to contacting a shelter and finding immediate care and resources.  Finding shelter when you own pets and don't want to leave them behind.  The Ark's Start Believing Campaign and its importance in educating the community and removing the stigma of being a domestic violence victim.   Upcoming plans for The Ark and Stephanie's professional goals.    LINKS AND RESOURCES: The Ark Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Shelter, Brownwood, Texas  The Ark Community Education & Prevention Toolkit  Power and Control Wheel    www.financialabusehelp.net     

Michela Giordana Castro, licensed clinical social worker and religious trauma specialist, discusses her journey from a fundamental upbringing to helping survivors of abuse and those navigating spirituality post-religious conversion.  Michela emphasizes the importance of not staying silent and avoiding shame in trauma recovery.  She discusses ways to seek diverse support for domestic abuse, including professional help and safe individuals, and to prioritize your own well being.  Michela highlights the challenges faced by those in religious instititutions who are under relationship abuse and encourages seeking external resources and details how her business supports domestic violence survivors who are still committed to their beliefs or who are transitioning out of religous faith and looking for a new path.     KEY HIGHLIGHTS 1. Statistics of Protestant clergy mentioning domestic violence during service are low. 2. An open minded approach may be required if under abuse and not receiving support from            religious authorities.   3. The internet as a significant tool in finding alternative answers when needing support. 4. The detrimental effects of staying silent and being shamed during trauma recovery. 5. Diverse support systems, including therapists and safe friends, as critical in recovery. 6. The challenges faced by domestic violence victims within a religious community. 7. Highlighting the role of self care and making even small changes to improve the situation.    LINKS AND RESOURCES:  Michela Giordana Castro YouTube Channel Michela Giordana Castro Instagram @michelasmindmunchies  www.financialabusehelp.net     

Sherry Lutz Herrington, founder of Strong Women Thriving and Sherrington Financial Fitness,  shares her journey from a financially abusive relationship to becoming a financial expert and advocate.  Detailing her experiences with abuse and subsequent financial disasters, Sherry empasizes the importance of financial education and support for women recovering from financial abuse. She highlights her efforts to create resources and courses to help women regain financial stability and confidence.  Sherry advises women on how to seek support and financial literacy during and after financial abuse in a marriage or romantic relationship.    KEY HIGHLIGHTS:    Growing up in a financially unstable and abusive household.  How your financial childhood affects your view of money as an adult.  The challenges of recognizing and leaving an abusive marriage.  The importance of financial education and support when starting over after abuse.  The challenges of finding resources and starting Strong Women Thriving organization.  How hard work and determination and bring around financial recovery.  Tips for women still under financial abuse or starting over after financial abuse.    RESOURCES AND LINKS: Strong Women Thriving Website  Strong Women Thriving Video Interviews      www.financialabusehelp.net       

Mr. Jay, betrayal trauma practitioner and interpersonal relationship coach, shares his challenging childhood marked by financial abuse and multiple relocations. Despite these hardships, he pursued education. earning several prestigious degrees and becoming a youth counselor and special education teacher. His father's death triggered a panic attack, leading him to focus on betrayal trauma, earning certifications and creating a TikTok following of nearly 25,000.  Mr. Jay emphasizes the importance of self care, vision boards and re-framing negative self talk.  He also discusses his efforts to raise awareness about betrayal trauma's impact on the workplace.     KEY HIGHLIGHTS:  Shifting your mindset to empowerment, from "Why me?" to "What now?" The commonality of financial abuse in dysfunctional homes and its long terms effects on how one views money.  The importance of nurturing critical thinking in recovering from trauma.  Managing the holidays when there's triggering questions and comments.  Visualizing your goals and aspirations for the coming new year.     LINKS: https://mrjayrelationshipcoach.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@BetrayalTraumaPractitioner   www.financialabusehelp.net         

Acquania Escarne, acclaimed financial coach and entrenpreneur, discusses her journey from learning finances at an unusually early age to her 15-year career in the Foreign Service and how she cleverly funded her own extensive travel experiences.  Acquania emphasizes the importance of learning financial literacy no matter your age or circumstances and understanding the role of money as a tool for achieving your sometimes lost or broken dreams.  Acquania shares her financial strategies for setting smart, realistic goals and also addresses the challenges women face with money, advocating for transparency and setting boundaries.  Acquania encourages survivors of financial abuse to reclaim their financial power and pursue their true selves.  KEY HIGHLIGHTS  Parental Influence on Financial Perspective. Jump starting your dreams financially. Women and fear of money.  Building generational wealth and education opportunities for descendants. Holiday spending and financial boundaries.  Strategic planning of your money regardless of where you start.  Financial advise for economic abuse survivors - how to get moving!    LINKS AND RESOURCES:  The Purpose of Money Website  The Purpose of Money YouTube Channel The Purpose of Money Financial Blog The Purpose of Money Podcast   www.financialabusehelp.net