In this episode, host Autumn Baker explores one of the most invisible and damaging aspects of abuse: shame. From how abusers weaponize shame to how it silences survivors, Autumn breaks down the emotional barriers that keep victims stuck — and explains what it takes to break free.

You’ll hear why shame lingers long after the abuse ends, how it affects healing, and what we can do — individually and as a community — to dismantle it. This episode is for survivors, supporters, and anyone seeking to understand the deeper psychological wounds of abuse.

We’re also excited to announce the launch of the Almost Oblivious Facebook Community Group — a safe, judgment-free space to connect, learn, and heal. 🎉

Today on Almost Oblivious, we’re tackling one of the most subtle — and most damaging — forms of emotional abuse: gaslighting. Gaslighting is a targeted form of psychological manipulation that causes you to doubt your memories, emotions, and sanity. But knowledge is power, and we’re shining a bright light on these dark tactics in this episode.

We’ll break down:

• What gaslighting is (and what it isn’t)

• How it shows up in relationships, workplaces, families, and more

• The psychological effects of gaslighting on survivors

• Real-life examples you might recognize

• How to recognize the signs and begin trusting yourself again

• Practical steps for protecting yourself and healing

You are not crazy. You are not broken. You are not alone.

What happens when the person who was supposed to love and protect you… is the one who hurt you most?

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, host Autumn Baker explores the often-unspoken reality of parental abuse and its lasting effects on adult children. We unpack the emotional, psychological, and even physical toll of growing up in a toxic or abusive household and the complex grief that comes with realizing your parent was your abuser.

This episode validates the pain of survivors while offering hope, healing, and the reminder: You were never the problem.

You’ll learn:

• What parental abuse can look like (even without physical violence)

• Why emotional wounds often go unrecognized

• How parentification, gaslighting, and control impact adult survivors

• Why setting boundaries with family can be so difficult—and so necessary

• Resources and tools to help you reclaim your voice and begin healing

Whether you're estranged from a parent or just beginning to question your upbringing, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we hear from a survivor, Alice, who opens up about navigating domestic abuse while living with a disability—a topic too often left out of the conversation. From growing up in an abusive home to enduring emotional manipulation and isolation in her first adult relationship, her story sheds light on the unique challenges disabled survivors face, and the resilience it takes to reclaim your life after trauma.

She shares how people often labeled her “brave” just for existing in public, how abusers weaponized her disability to gain praise from others, and how grieving the loss of a loved one became the turning point that led her toward freedom. With honesty, heart, and strength, she invites us into a deeply personal journey of loss, survival, healing, and the unexpected joy of discovering what true safety and love can feel like.

This episode is a reminder that survival looks different for everyone—but hope, healing, and independence are possible for everyone. Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or advocate, this story is one you’ll never forget.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, ableism, depression, and grief.

“If we want to break the cycle of domestic violence, it starts with education. It starts with bold conversations. It starts with us.”

Teen dating violence is happening far more often than most people realize—and the silence surrounding it is costing lives. In this episode of Almost Oblivious, Autumn Baker confronts the harsh reality that 1 in 12 U.S. high school students report being physically hurt by someone they’re dating, and 1 in 3 teens will experience dating violence before they become adults—and those are just the ones who speak up. Only 33% of teens ever told anyone about the abuse.

We explore the warning signs, the psychological toll, and the often-overlooked world of digital abuse—from social media stalking to pressure for explicit photos. Autumn shares her reflection on how a lack of education in her teen years kept her vulnerable to abuse later in life.

“Even if it feels awkward, talking openly shows teens they can trust you and turn to you without fear of judgment.”

Whether you're a parent, a teen, or someone who works with youth, this episode arms you with knowledge and resources to open up conversations that could truly save lives.

What they don’t know can hurt them. But what we teach today? That could save their tomorrow.

“Silence can lead to Ignorance, and Ignorance can be dangerous”.

REWIND Episode 08: Red Flags!

Enjoy this rewind episode, and I'll see you all next week for a new episode! Remember to like, share, and leave a review!

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we shine a light on the subtle and overt warning signs of domestic abuse. From patterns of control and manipulation to the dangers of love bombing and isolation, we uncover the behaviors that often go unnoticed until it's too late. Whether you're navigating a challenging relationship or supporting someone who might be, this 20-minute deep dive will help you recognize the signs and take action.

Leaving an abusive relationship isn’t the end of the story—it’s the beginning of a new one. But what happens after? How do you heal when trauma lingers? How do you rebuild a life that was once controlled by someone else?

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, I share my personal journey of healing, the struggles I faced, and the small victories that helped me move forward. From rediscovering my identity to learning how to trust again, I talk about the reality of life after abuse—what helped me, what made it harder, and what I wish more people understood.

We’ll dive into the psychological effects of trauma bonding, PTSD, and self-doubt, as well as the incredible power of community, therapy, and self-love. Whether you’re a survivor, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to understand more, this episode is filled with truth, encouragement, and hope.

✨ Healing takes time, but it is possible.
💜 You are not alone.

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we dive into the topic of self-worth—what it is, how abuse tears it down, and most importantly, how to rebuild it. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling "not enough," this episode is for you.

We discuss:

• What self-worth truly means and why it’s not based on achievements.

• How abusers destroy self-worth through gaslighting, criticism, and control.

• Practical steps to reclaim your self-worth after trauma.

• Relearning who you are and discovering your identity beyond the abuse.

• Daily habits that reinforce self-worth in everyday life.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. There are resources and support available to help you heal and rediscover your value.

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic abuse, including physical violence, gun violence, rape, kidnapping, and emotional trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

In this powerful episode of Almost Oblivious, we share the courageous story of a survivor who endured the unimaginable but found the strength to break free. They open up about the reality of living with abuse, the struggles of leaving, and the resilience it takes to rebuild a life after trauma. This episode is a raw and honest look at survival, healing, faith, and hope. Whether you’re a survivor, know someone who is, or simply want to better understand the complexities of domestic abuse, this story will leave an impact.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to a trusted friend, a local domestic violence organization, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. You are not alone.

Tune in now and join the conversation. 💜

Domestic abuse shelters can be a lifeline for survivors, but misconceptions and fear often keep people from seeking help. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know—what shelters are really like, how to prepare if you’re thinking about going, and common myths that stop people from reaching out.

We’ll also discuss why shelters are so vital, the challenges they face, and how we can all help keep these safe havens running. Whether you or someone you love needs this information, this episode is packed with resources and reassurance.

📢 Listen now & share—it could save a life.

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we explore one of the most dangerous realities of domestic abuse—when it escalates to homicide. Abuse doesn’t always start with physical violence, but when it does, the warning signs are often there. We break down the stages of escalation, key risk factors, and the terrifying reality that when a gun is involved, the chance of homicide increases by 500%.

We also discuss the psychology of victims—why they stay, why they defend their abuser, and how trauma bonding keeps them trapped in dangerous relationships. Using real-life cases, including the heartbreaking story of Gabby Petito, we examine how abuse can be overlooked until it’s too late.

If you or someone you love is in an abusive relationship, please know that help is available. This episode includes resources for safety planning, support, and escaping high-risk situations.

This episode is just a brief introduction to stalking. Stalking is a complex and multifaceted crime, and while we cover key points, there is always more to learn. Listen in with Autumn Baker, as she touches the various types of stalking and how to keep yourself safe. If you're experiencing stalking, please seek support from professionals and legal resources. Stalking laws can vary by state!

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, host Autumn Baker tackles one of the most misunderstood questions surrounding domestic abuse: "Why didn't they just leave?" Leaving an abusive relationship is far more complex than it seems, with psychological, financial, social, and legal barriers making escape incredibly difficult—and sometimes even dangerous. We’ll explore how trauma affects the brain, why survivors stay, and what ultimately helps them break free. Featuring survivor stories, expert insights, and practical ways to support those in abusive situations, this episode sheds light on the realities of domestic violence and the importance of understanding before passing judgment.

In this powerful episode of Almost Oblivious, we share the courageous journey of a domestic violence survivor who found the strength to break free and rebuild her life. From the early warning signs to the heartbreaking realities of abuse, she opens up about the struggles she faced, the moment she decided to leave, and how faith and resilience guided her to a new beginning.

We also discuss the importance of sharing your story. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-799-7233 or by texting “START” to 88788.

Tune in to hear this survivor’s inspiring story and join us in breaking the silence on domestic violence. 💜

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we explore the transformative power of community and the courage it takes to share your story. Host Autumn Baker opens up about her own experience speaking at a domestic violence conference in October 2024—a pivotal moment that confirmed the launch of this podcast and reinforced the importance of collective healing.

Autumn discusses the critical role community plays in helping survivors heal, sharing compelling facts about how connection reduces isolation and builds resilience. We’ll also delve into the ripple effect of storytelling, showing how one person’s voice can inspire others to find their strength. Whether you’re a survivor, a supporter, or someone seeking to understand, this episode will remind you that we’re stronger together.

Tune in to learn how sharing your story can help you heal and empower others, and discover ways to build or find your own supportive community.

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we dive into the complexities of narcissism, exploring the difference between narcissistic tendencies and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Host, Autumn Baker, will discuss how narcissism can play a role in abusive relationships, the myths surrounding it, and why the term is often overused. Abuse isn’t limited to romantic relationships—it can come from family and friends too. Join me as we break down the nuances of narcissism, empower survivors, and invite listeners to share their stories to help others feel less alone.

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we break the silence on a form of control that often goes unseen—financial abuse. This pervasive yet often overlooked aspect of domestic violence affects victims in ways that can keep them trapped in unhealthy relationships.

Host, Autumn Baker, will explore:

• The many forms financial abuse can take, from restricting access to money to sabotaging employment.

• How financial control undermines independence and self-worth.

• Practical steps for regaining financial independence and securing a path to freedom.

This episode also features real-world strategies, resources, and encouragement for anyone feeling trapped by financial control. Together, we’ll uncover how to reclaim autonomy, one step at a time.

Don’t forget to share this episode to help others who may be silently struggling. Together, we can empower survivors to find their voice and take back control. 💜

In this episode of Almost Oblivious, we dive into the transformative power of setting boundaries. Boundaries are essential to self-care, but knowing when and how to set them isn’t always easy. Join host Autumn Baker as she explains how to recognize the need for boundaries, practical steps to set them, and tips for handling pushback from others.

We’ll also explore the delicate balance between protecting your peace and understanding when family and friends come from a place of genuine care. Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out but about creating space for healthier, more respectful relationships.

If you’ve ever struggled with saying no, felt drained by certain interactions, or wondered how to communicate your needs effectively, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to reclaim your energy, build stronger connections, and live a life aligned with your values.

As we ring in the New Year, this special episode focuses on hope, resilience, and transformation. Join host Autumn Baker as she shares strategies to prepare for a brighter future and shift from a victim mindset to a survivor’s perspective.

Discover the power of reframing your thoughts, setting realistic goals, and making small but meaningful changes that can lead to freedom and healing. Learn how even simple changes in vocabulary—like turning "What if I can't?" into "Even if I can't, I can still…"—can help create a positive mindset and open the door to new possibilities.

Whether you’re taking your first steps toward change or need a dose of encouragement, this episode is your guide to starting 2025 with strength and purpose.

Tune in and take the first step toward rewriting your story. ✨

This Christmas Eve, join me for a more uplifting episode dedicated to those seeking hope and freedom this holiday season. Host Autumn Baker discusses the critical role of self-care and education in preparing to leave an abusive relationship. From practical tips on building a safety plan to emotional and physical self-care strategies, this episode is packed with tools to help survivors reclaim their lives.

Whether you're taking the first step or supporting someone on their journey, this episode offers guidance, compassion, and a reminder that brighter days are ahead.

Happy Holidays Obliviates!