Join us as Abi Thomas meets amazing women who have all been through the Own My Life course, 12 sessions which enable women who have been subjected to abuse to regain ownership of their lives.

Be aware that you will hear painful stories of many types of abuse during these episodes. But you will also hear a lot of joy - and we make no apology for that!

Today we meet the brilliant Monty who is a resilient and compassionate woman who shares her powerful journey of survival, resistance, and healing after her former partner abused her for 23 years. Monty recounts how this man abused her emotionally, physically, and sexually, using manipulation, intimidation, and cycles of kindness and cruelty to control her. She explains how the abuse eroded her self-confidence, led her to question herself, and forced her to constantly adapt her behaviour to avoid triggering her partner’s anger.

Despite these challenges, Monty describes small acts of resistance; finding sanctuary in her bedroom, journaling, meditating, and protecting her internal world as forms of self-care. After many attempts to leave, she eventually sought safety in a women’s refuge and found crucial support through Own My Life. The course helped Monty understand the patterns of abuse in her partner’s behaviour, let go of misplaced self-blame, and recognise that she deserved safety and joy.

Monty describes rediscovering happiness in everyday moments; like seeing birds in her garden, enjoying time with family, and making her own choices without fear. By telling her story, Monty offers inspiration and reassurance to others facing similar challenges, showing that recovery and a joyful, empowered life are possible after being subjected to abuse, even when that abuse lasts 23 years.

More information about Own My Life:

1. Find a course HERE
2. Evaluations HERE
3. Own My Life Discovery HERE

Further Reading and Resources:

1. Cycle of Abuse (PDF HERE) (Image HERE)
2. Power Threat Meaning Framework HERE
3. A Disorder for Everyone HERE
4. Anatomy of an Epidemic by Robert Whittaker
5. The War on Women by Marilyn French
6. Can’t Buy Me Love by Jean Kilbourne

You may realise as you listen that you, or someone you know, needs help...