Hidden Abuse:

When Financial Control Leads to Homelessness - A Survivor's Journey from Manhattan Executive to Starting Over

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Last Episode

Season 1: Episode 9

Release Date: 01/7/25

Host: Gabby Cunningham

Guest: Kasey Rogers

I Know Why She Stayed

Show Notes:

[0:00 - 2:30 - Introduction]
Gabby Cunningham opens the episode by setting the stage for the powerful story of resilience featured in this episode. She introduces Kasey Rogers, a survivor and advocate whose story highlights the intricate link between domestic violence and homelessness.

[2:31 - 5:15 - Kacey's Early Relationship]
Kasey Rogers begins to share her personal experience, describing how her husband’s controlling behavior began subtly and how it gradually escalated into a form of domestic abuse, particularly focusing on controlling her actions and financial independence.

[5:16 - 9:45 - The Shower Incident]
Kasey recounts a chilling example of her husband's control—refusing to let her shower when she wanted and threatening to leave with her belongings and children. This incident is indicative of a broader pattern of coercive control.

[9:46 - 12:00 - Understanding Financial Abuse]
Kasey and Gabby discuss the nuances of financial abuse, emphasizing how financial manipulation often serves as a tool for abusers to control their partners’ independence and mobility.

[12:01 - 14:30 - Links to Homelessness]
Gabby outlines the statistical link between domestic violence and homelessness, adding context to Kasey Rogers' personal experience. This segues into the more extensive discussion on financial abuse affecting 99% of domestic violence survivors.

[14:31 - 18:59 - The Power of Programs]
An overview of the four-part program developed to assist abuse survivors is presented. This includes the reader’s guide and comprehensive resources focusing on escaping abuse and maintaining financial stability.

[19:00 - 22:15 - Program Accessibility and Social Impact]
Gabby highlights the "power pen," providing offline access to vital support resources for those in unsafe situations. Discussion on the societal impact of the program and efforts to prevent homelessness due to lack of resources.

[22:16 - 27:00 - A Journey of Personal Struggle]
Kasey shares the complexities of her life when she moved to Canada, dealing with emotional abuse, financial control, and isolation. Her husband’s absence offered relief but brought financial challenges that influenced her decision to return to the US.

[27:01 - 31:30 - Escape and Support]
The narrative details Kasey’s covert plans to leave her abusive relationship, finding solace and support with friends while navigating legal challenges related to custody and financial manipulation.

[31:31 - 35:40 - Homelessness and Recovery]
Kasey talks about her experience facing homelessness, living in restrictive environments, and battling emotional displacement. Her journey to finding stability through writing and advocacy is highlighted.

[35:41 - 40:00 - Advocacy and Education]
Kacey Rogers explains her collaborative efforts with Kat and Justine in establishing "I Know Why She Stayed.org" to raise awareness about financial abuse and provide support and educational resources for women.

[40:01 - 43:30 - Authoring a Change]
Discussion about the memoir "Our Better Selves" and fictional work "The Color of Frost," both of which explore themes of abuse and recovery, aiming to inspire solidarity among survivors.

[43:31 - 48:59 - Educational Outreach and Impact]
Details on the "Authors Against Abuse" event, resources available through iknowwhysheStayed.org, and educational initiatives being developed for colleges and high schools to teach young women about the dangers of relinquishing financial independence.

[49:00 - 52:30 - Call to Action]
Gabby and Kasey conclude the episode by urging listeners to recognize signs of abuse and leverage available resources for help. They emphasize the transformative power of shared stories and community support in overcoming domestic violence.

[52:31 - End - Closing and Support Message]
The episode wraps up with a message of encouragement, reminding listeners that help is available, and their stories matter. Gabby provides contact information and resources for those in need of support.

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever heard a story of resilience that deeply moved you? How did it impact your perspective on overcoming adversity?"
"What are your thoughts on the link between financial independence and domestic abuse, as highlighted by Kacey Rogers in our latest episode?"
"Kasey Rogers mentioned the importance of recognizing signs of financial abuse. What signs do you think are critical to identify in personal relationships?"
"After listening to Kacey's journey, what resources or support systems do you believe are essential for individuals escaping abusive situations?"
"In what ways can educational outreach in schools and colleges help in preventing domestic and financial abuse, as discussed in our program?"
"How do you think societal perceptions about who can be affected by domestic abuse can be changed?"
"Have you read any powerful memoirs or books, like Kacey’s 'Our Better Selves,' that deal with overcoming domestic abuse and highlight recovery?"

Worksheet: Understanding Domestic and Financial Abuse

Objective:
This worksheet is designed to help listeners reinforce their understanding of the issues discussed in the podcast episode featuring Kasey Rogers. By completing this worksheet, you will gain a deeper awareness of domestic and financial abuse, identify potential warning signs, and learn about available resources.

Section 1: Understanding the Dynamics

Define Domestic Abuse:
Briefly explain what domestic abuse entails and how it extends beyond physical violence.
- What specific example of control did Kasey Rogers experience from her husband related to her daily routine?
- How did this behavior exemplify broader patterns of control, especially in regard to finances?
  
  Identify Forms of Control:

Section 2: Recognizing Financial Abuse

Statistics of Financial Abuse:
What percentage of domestic violence survivors experience financial abuse, and why is this significant?
Indicators of Financial Abuse:
List three signs of financial abuse based on Kasey Rogers' experience.

Section 3: Resources and Support

Available Support Resources:
Name two resources mentioned in the podcast that support domestic violence victims, specifically addressing financial abuse.
The Role of "Power Pens":
Explain the purpose of the "power pen" mentioned in the program overview.

Section 4: Personal Reflection and Action

Connecting with the Story:
Reflect on how you relate to or empathize with Kasey Rogers' story. Discuss any similar experiences you've encountered or witnessed that might not similarly be apparent to others.
Taking Action:
How might you use the information from this episode to support someone in your community who may be experiencing similar challenges?

Section 5: Educational Outreach

Prevention through Education:
Why is educational outreach about financial abuse and domestic violence crucial for young women, especially in academic settings?

Instructions for Use:
Use these prompts for personal reflection or group discussion to deepen understanding and create community awareness. Share insights and collaborate on actions that support survivors of domestic and financial abuse.