EP #47 - DR HILL WITH LINDSEY HARDEN | From Survivor to Advocate: Lindsey Harden’s Journey Through Trauma, Loss, and Finding Strength

Shades in Justice Podcast – Episode 47Host: Dr. Evelyn HillGuest: Lindsey Harden – Domestic Violence Survivor and AdvocateProduced by: Positive Power Christian RadioEpisode Title: From Survivor to Advocate: Lindsey Harden’s Journey Through Trauma, Loss, and Finding StrengthEpisode OverviewIn this deeply moving and courageous episode of Shades in Justice, Dr. Evelyn Hill sits down with Lindsey Harden, a woman whose life story is a powerful testament to resilience, self-discovery, and advocacy. Lindsey shares her personal journey from a childhood surrounded by music and close family bonds to enduring—and ultimately overcoming—years of domestic violence. Through her candid and emotional testimony, Lindsey reveals the painful realities of abuse, the devastating loss of her sister to domestic violence, and the steps she took to reclaim her life.Lindsey’s story sheds light on the warning signs of abusive relationships, the long-term impact of trauma, and the importance of having a strong support system. This conversation is both a warning and an encouragement to anyone experiencing domestic violence: there is a way out, and there is life after abuse.Key Discussion Points1. Family Roots and Musical UpbringingLindsey grew up in Sterling, Illinois, the youngest of six siblings, in a home filled with music and strong family values.Her parents’ 47-year marriage modeled commitment and love, shaping her early ideals about relationships.2. Early Exposure to Domestic ViolenceLindsey witnessed domestic violence for the first time at a young age through her older sister’s abusive relationship.She recalls seeing the cycle of arguments, arrests, and reconciliations, as well as the eventual transformation when her sister’s partner sought help.3. Personal Experience with AbuseAt 17, Lindsey endured a brutal trauma when she was raped by three men, leading to two trials and convictions.Struggling with emotional isolation and low self-esteem, she entered a relationship that quickly turned abusive.For over a decade, she endured multiple abusive relationships, each leaving deeper emotional scars.4. The Tragic Loss of Her SisterLindsey’s sister, Ashley, was secretly in an abusive relationship and kept silent to avoid burdening the family.Ashley’s life was tragically taken by her abuser, just one month after warning Lindsey to leave her own toxic situation.Lindsey recounts the devastating day she learned of Ashley’s death and the long-lasting impact on her family.5. Recognizing the Warning SignsLindsey emphasizes that controlling behaviors—such as isolating a partner from friends and family, emotional degradation, and escalating anger—are clear red flags.She warns that abuse often starts with emotional manipulation before becoming physical.6. Advice for Those in Abusive SituationsLeave after the first incident. Abuse almost always escalates.Have a plan to exit safely—whether leaving while the abuser is at work, seeking help from trusted family, or signaling for help in public spaces.Understand that apologies and gifts are often part of the cycle of control, not genuine change.7. Advice for Friends and Family of VictimsPay attention to changes in behavior, appearance, or emotional state.Offer support without judgment, but understand that leaving must be the survivor’s decision.Always let them know you are a safe resource when they’re ready.8. Healing and Moving ForwardLindsey spent two years single, focusing on self-worth and healing.She uses her voice now to advocate for others, honoring her sister’s memory by telling their stories.Memorable Quotes from Lindsey Harden“One time is enough—after the first hit, it will only get worse.”“Don’t stay for the kids. A real family doesn’t abuse you.”“If you notice anything that makes you uneasy, that’s your sign to leave.”“My sister died without telling her story—so I will tell hers and mine.”Resources MentionedDomestic Violence Hotline: [phone]-SAFE (7233)Positive Power Christian Radio – www.positivepower21.orgDr. Evelyn Hill – www.DrEvelynHill.netAbout the Guest – Lindsey HardenLindsey Harden is a survivor of multiple abusive relationships, a sister, a mother, and a passionate advocate for domestic violence awareness. Having endured trauma, court battles, and the tragic loss of her sister to domestic violence, Lindsey now shares her experiences to inspire others to break free, heal, and reclaim their lives. Her mission is to ensure that no survivor feels alone and that no story goes untold.About the Host – Dr. Evelyn HillDr. Evelyn Hill is a speaker, community leader, and host of Shades in Justice, a podcast that shines a light on stories of justice and injustice across America. She is committed to giving survivors and advocates a platform to share their experiences and create pathways for change.Listen & SubscribeCatch new episodes of Shades in Justice every Wednesday at 8:30 PM CST / 9:30 PM EST on Positive Power ...