Smoke Alarm

You Probably Think This Story’s About You

This episode references domestic violence and other mature themes.

[Lou’s Story Part 1/3]

Lou's story isn’t just about survival—it’s a battle cry of reclamation.

In this chapter she unravels the deeply personal account of her entanglement with John, her manipulative and abusive ex-boyfriend. The emotional wounds of their relationship left scars that refused to fade, but it was the unexpected moment of seeing him again years later that pulled her back into the shadows of her past. As the trauma resurfaced, Lou found herself grappling with questions she thought she had buried.

In retracing the steps of her formative years and confronting the weight of generational trauma, Lou begins to piece together a path toward recovery. But healing isn’t a straight line — it’s a labyrinth of pain, resilience, and startling realizations that could change everything.

All chapters are available ad free on Patreon: https://patreon.com/BrittaniArd

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Production of BDE Unlimited

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RAINN Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network Helpline

https://rainn.org/about-rainn

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or Text 988

https://www.988lifeline.org

Childhelp Call or Text 800.422.4453

https://www.childhelphotline.org/

National Drug Helpline call 844.289.0879

https://www.drughelpline.org/

National Domestic Violence Hotline

www.thehotline.com

Narcissist Abuse Resource

https://www.helpguide.org/

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