Beyond the Monsters – Details, episodes & analysis

Holly Buss shares her powerful journey of overcoming emotional abuse, manipulation, and religious grooming. She recounts how, as a high school student, she was groomed by an older man—her teacher—into the beliefs of Reformed Christian Reconstructionism, as well as into a marriage that was marked by control and emotional turmoil. This experience of religious and psychological manipulation left her isolated, particularly during motherhood, as she struggled with severe mental health challenges. Holly reflects on her fight to reclaim her identity and protect her children from her ex-husband’s manipulative behavior, highlighting the emotional and legal battles she endured.

The conversation explores the challenges women face when navigating a biased legal system, particularly survivors of trauma. Holly emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, documentation, and community support in overcoming these obstacles. Holly and Chell also discuss the complexities of parenting after separation, the need for self-care and healing, and the importance of strong support networks and safe spaces to empower women to rebuild their lives and reclaim their voices.  

National Domestic Violence Hotline

800-799-7233

Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center

https://dvsacenter.org

U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program

Safe Horizon’s Legal and Court Help: https://www.safehorizon.org/our-services/legal-and-court-help/

Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.

https://www.findhelp.org

https://www.domesticshelters.org

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Holly's Story

06:04 Grooming and Manipulation

10:00 Courtship and Control

15:52 Marriage and Realization

21:50 Motherhood and Survival

32:56 Recognizing Emotional Abuse

34:51 Planning an Escape

36:37 The Fallout of Divorce

41:24 Escalation of Abuse

48:03 Finding Relief and New Beginnings

51:12 The Cost of Justice

54:30 The Turning Point in Court

01:00:35 Empowerment Through Legal Knowledge

01:04:21 Navigating the Costs of Justice

01:10:43 The Importance of Documentation

01:12:18 Finding Support and Community

01:16:28 The Impact of Courtroom Bias

01:24:39 The Role of Empathy in Justice

01:34:45 Navigating Parenting After Separation

01:41:40 The Importance of Self-Care and Healing

01:45:08 Empowering Women in Crisis

01:51:31 Funding the Fight Against Abuse

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Sarah Marie shares her journey through trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles, describing how growing up in a small town where secrets were hidden left her feeling vulnerable and fearful. She opens up about her battles with addiction, bulimia nervosa, and episodes of psychosis, which deeply impacted her life. Once a successful spiritual medium with a social media following, Sarah’s declining mental health led her to step away from her business and public presence, leaving her followers wondering what had happened.

After navigating various rehabilitation programs, including a Scientology-based center, she found the right support to begin healing. Sarah emphasizes the power of Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS), the importance of facing emotional triggers, and the need to cultivate healthy internal systems. Now focused on helping others, she shares a message of resilience and hope, encouraging those who feel broken to believe in the possibility of recovery and transformation.

Sarah’s Socials

https://www.instagram.com/sarahmariecollective

https://www.sarahmariecollective.com COMING SOON!

Sarah will have a free safety plan workbook for people to download on her website!

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sarah Marie's Journey

02:02 The Impact of Small Town Secrets

04:59 Teenage Rebellion and Struggles

09:56 Rock Bottom and Unconventional Rehab

15:08 The Turning Point: Mental Health Care

20:55 Discovering Healing Through Internal Family Systems

22:38 Creating Change Through Internal Systems

29:19 Understanding Triggers and Embracing Emotions

34:00 Building Systems for Collective Healing

39:56 Vulnerability and the Power of Sharing Stories

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Please excuse our camera quality on Kenna, the trial and errors of getting started lol

In this heartfelt conversation, Chell and Kenna Bane discuss the profound impact of grief and loss during the holiday season. They share their personal experiences with loss, particularly the death of a loved one, and how it has shaped their approach to celebrating holidays. The discussion highlights the importance of community support, the challenges of seasonal depression, and the need for intentional outreach to those who may be struggling. They emphasize that grief is a personal journey that doesn't adhere to a timeline and that everyone deserves to feel included and valued, especially during difficult times.

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Grief During the Holidays

13:07 The Impact of Seasonal Depression

22:08 Building Community and Connection

Host: Chell Bane 

Instagram: @BeyondtheMonsters

Lorah Gerald discusses her experiences as a domestic adoptee and her advocacy for better mental health care for those affected by adoption. She highlights the hidden history of adoption, particularly the Baby Scoop Era, and its psychological impacts on adoptees. Lorah emphasizes the importance of healing for both adoptees and adoptive parents, the ethical concerns surrounding the adoption industry, and the need for education and awareness about adoption trauma. She also shares her journey into yoga and how it serves as a tool for healing and community support.

Lorahgerald.com

https://lorahgerald.com/classes-%26-merch Code: Free Class

Adoptee Resources on Lorah’s Site

https://lorahgerald.com/adoptee-resources

Lorah’s Socials

https://www.instagram.com/theadoptedchameleon

https://www.facebook.com/TheAdoptedChameleon

https://www.tiktok.com/@theadoptedchameleon

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

Chapters

00:00 Lorah Gerald's Background and Adoption Experience

04:25 The Hidden History of Adoption

09:24 The Baby Scoop Era and Its Impact

14:16 Trauma and Mental Health in Adoptees

19:07 The Adoption Industry and Its Challenges

24:14 The Importance of Understanding Adoption Dynamics

25:24 The Trauma of Birth and Adoption

28:52 Coercive Tactics in Adoption

31:10 The Impact of DNA Testing on Identity

33:30 Understanding Adoption Trauma

35:57 Generational Trauma and Foster Care

39:12 Healing Through Yoga and Mindfulness

43:31 Finding the Right Support in Mental Health

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

In this powerful and deeply moving conversation, Chell sits down with Seth Gehle to uncover his journey from a childhood marked by relentless trauma and sexual abuse to becoming a published author and motivational speaker. Seth courageously shares his story of growing up in a chaotic and dysfunctional home shaped by addiction, neglect, and manipulation. He reveals the profound impact of the ongoing sexual abuse he endured at the hands of a trusted adult, the silence and shame that followed, and the lasting scars it left on his sense of self.

Through raw and vulnerable storytelling, Seth reflects on his rebellious youth, the betrayal of those he should have been able to trust, and the critical turning points that shaped his resilience. He delves into the complex emotional battles he faced, including the struggle to recognize manipulation and the difficult path to seeking help and reporting his abuser. Mentorship became a lifeline, guiding him through some of his darkest moments as he worked toward healing and survival.

Together, Chell and Seth explore the psychological weight of sexual abuse trauma—its lasting effects on trust, identity, and emotional well-being—and emphasize the importance of embracing vulnerability in the healing process. They discuss breaking the silence, confronting shame, and the role of therapy and self-compassion in overcoming the long-term effects of abuse.

Seth’s Socials

https://www.instagram.com/seth_gehle?igsh=M2J0Y21tNGdlYXZu

https://www.youtube.com/@sethgehle

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Uwjt6kSab/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

https://sethgehle.com 

Seth’s book: Strength Beyond the Shadows

https://a.co/d/2RI0m67 

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988

National Sexual Assault Hotline

RAINN 800-656-4673

Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line

741741

https://www.crisistextline.org 

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Seth Gehle and His Story

01:33 Seth's Childhood and Family Dynamics

05:20 Abuse and Neglect in Early Life

09:14 The Impact of a Dysfunctional Home

16:25 The Role of Foster Care and Its Challenges

18:41 Rebellion and Troubled Youth

27:07 Finding a Mentor Amidst Chaos

31:46 The Betrayal of Trust and Abuse

42:29 Manipulation and Control in Relationships

45:30 The Complexity of Sexual Abuse

52:53 Resilience Amidst Trauma

57:34 Hope and the Will to Overcome

01:12:01 The Complexity of Manipulation

01:25:17 The Turning Point: Reporting the Abuse

01:35:39 Life After Trauma: Military and Healing

01:40:17 The Role of Therapy and Self-Help

01:42:28 Embracing Shame and Vulnerability

01:43:32 The Power of Being Triggered

01:53:19 The Importance of Sharing Your Story

01:57:04 Spring Cleaning for the Mind

02:00:19 The Decision to Heal

02:05:09 The Role of Empathy in Healing

02:06:59 The Courage to Share Your Story

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

In this powerful conversation, Melissa Greene opens up about her journey through church trauma, sharing her experiences of growing up in a conservative megachurch shaped by fear-based teachings. She reflects on how these doctrines influenced her childhood, her moments of doubt and questioning during college, and the transformative power of travel and personal growth in expanding her perspectives. Melissa dives into the complexities of confronting privilege, navigating LGBTQ+ inclusion within the church, and embracing compassion and understanding as pillars of spirituality.  

She also discusses her time in the contemporary Christian music scene, the challenges of fostering inclusivity within faith communities, and the importance of accountability in leadership. Melissa shares her bold decision to leave a church and create Imaginarium, a non-profit organization focused on building a non-hierarchical, inclusive spiritual community. The conversation touches on the profound impact of prison ministry and the belief in the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their past.  

This episode is an inspiring exploration of faith, growth, and the pursuit of authentic spirituality.

Please excuse our audio quality towards the end of the episode!

Evergreen Christmas Concert in Nashville, TN on December 23rd

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evergreen-christmas-featuring-melissa-greene-ryan-greenawalt-tickets-1095289483329?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl 

Melissa’s Socials

https://www.instagram.com/melissagreene 

https://linktr.ee/melissagreene

https://www.melissagreene.net

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWQpP8gHH7vew99LcQJs3Og

Imaginarium Foundation

https://www.imaginarium.life/

https://www.instagram.com/weareimaginarium

https://www.facebook.com/ImaginariumCommunity

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters 

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Church Trauma

02:54 Melissa's Journey in the Church

06:04 Fear-Based Teachings and Their Impact

09:05 The Us vs. Them Mentality

11:49 Questioning Beliefs in College

14:55 Traveling and Expanding Perspectives

18:09 Confronting Privilege and Theology

20:45 Experiences in Africa and Their Lessons

23:59 Finding Love and New Beginnings

27:06 Confronting LGBTQ+ Issues in Faith

27:55 Navigating Faith and Identity

30:13 The Shift Towards Inclusivity in Faith Communities

35:45 Challenges of Leadership and Accountability

42:15 The Birth of a Non-Profit: Imaginarium

48:18 Transformative Experiences in Prison Ministry

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

In this deeply personal episode, host Chell Bane sits down with Kenna to explore her experience of growing up without her father, who passed away when she was just six months old. Together, they delve into the complexities of grief, the unique challenges of losing a parent before forming memories, and the emotional development that stems from such loss.

Kenna reflects on how her father’s absence shaped her identity, relationships, and coping mechanisms, including humor and introspection. Chell and Kenna also discuss the broader impacts of loss, from navigating family dynamics to understanding codependency, independence, and emotional healing.

This conversation shines a light on the importance of processing grief, maintaining open communication in relationships, and finding strength in vulnerability. Through raw and heartfelt dialogue, the episode offers insights into the ongoing journey of healing and the profound ways loss can shape a person’s life.

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health. Instagram: www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Loss: A Personal Journey 05:20 Understanding Grief: Growing Up Without a Father 21:47 Coping Mechanisms: Humor and Reflection 36:21 Emotional Development: The Impact of Absence 40:10 Navigating Codependency and Independence 45:07 Understanding Grief and Loss 49:51 The Impact of Absence on Relationships 55:13 Communication Styles in Relationships 59:47 Reflections on Parenting and Growing Up 01:10:14 The Complexity of Grief and Healing

In this episode, Chell and Dan Bane explore Dan's powerful journey through addiction, tracing the early influences that led him toward substance abuse and the role of family dynamics in his story. Dan opens up about his experiences with various substances, pivotal moments that led him to seek help, and the ongoing challenges of maintaining sobriety amid life’s complexities. This honest and reflective conversation delves into the pain of regret, the deep impact of personal choices on relationships, and the steps toward healing and redemption. Dan discusses the downward spiral that followed the loss of a loved one, the turning points that brought him to sobriety, and the critical role of support systems and making amends in the recovery process. Through his story, this episode offers hope and encouragement to those facing similar struggles, illuminating the strength and resilience needed to rebuild a life in the wake of addiction.

Resources and Help Lines:

National Drug Helpline: (844) 289-0879

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357)   

Find Treatment Search Engine: https://findtreatment.gov

Find an AA Meeting Near You: https://www.aa.org/find-aa

NA or AA Meeting Search Engine: https://betteraddictioncare.com/meetings/

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to a Journey of Sobriety

03:10 Early Beginnings of Addiction

05:59 The Escalation of Substance Use

08:58 The Impact of Family Dynamics

11:50 Transitioning into Adulthood and Drug Use

14:45 The Turning Point: Family and Responsibility

17:48 The Path to Sobriety Begins

20:48 Challenges of Early Sobriety

24:06 Living with Addiction: The Struggle Continues

27:29 The Weight of Regret

29:57 A Downward Spiral

34:25 The Turning Point

36:44 Navigating Recovery

40:34 The Journey of Amends

46:07 Words of Hope

Raven shares her powerful journey of self-discovery, resilience, and healing. Growing up within the strict Jehovah’s Witness religion, she faced trauma, identity suppression, and addiction, struggling to reconcile her true self with the confines of her upbringing. She courageously speaks about the deep scars left by multiple instances of sexual assault and the lasting impact of those experiences on her mental health. Throughout her story, she reflects on navigating family dynamics, sobriety, and the profound role of plant medicine in her recovery. She emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for consent, exploration, and self-discovery, especially within marginalized communities.  

Raven also highlights her advocacy for the military, particularly the Marines, while shedding light on her experiences with complex romantic partnerships. In addition, Raven delves into her empowerment through the world of BDSM, emphasizing the significance of safety, trauma healing, and living authentically. She introduces her alter ego, Raven Roulette, who symbolizes her journey of reclaiming power and self-expression. She also shares her harrowing experience with an abusive partner who exploited her involvement in the BDSM world to manipulate and harm her.  

Through writing and her upcoming book, Raven hopes to inspire others to confront their trauma, embrace mental health awareness, and find their voice. Her advocacy aims to provide resources for healing and create a supportive community where others can share their stories.  

Raven’s Socials

https://www.instagram.com/theravenroulette https://www.instagram.com/drippinginhope

Raven’s book - Releasing this Spring

Dark Erotic Poetry Called "I Should Have Murdered You When I Had A Chance."

Raising mental health awareness for Sex Workers & United States Armed Forces.

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988

National Sexual Assault Hotline

RAINN 800-656-4673

Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line

741741

https://www.crisistextline.org

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Naima Hill opens up about her profound journey through grief after the tragic loss of her daughter, Avy, and her beloved dog in a devastating car accident. She shares the raw reality of navigating immense sorrow, the challenges of finding support, and the ways in which society often falls short in offering empathy to those experiencing deep loss.

In her quest to honor Avy’s memory, Naima turned her pain into purpose by founding a nonprofit dedicated to creating spaces that celebrate love and remembrance. She reflects on the contradictions of joy and sorrow, the weight of PTSD, and the complexities of moving forward while carrying the past.

In this heartfelt conversation, Naima and Chell explore the impact of trauma and grief, the struggles of overprotection and fear, and the unpredictable stages of healing. They discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of community, and the ongoing journey of finding light amid the darkness. Naima’s resilience serves as a testament to the strength it takes to rebuild after loss, proving that even in the depths of grief, love and legacy can endure.

Avy’s Sunshine Tribe Foundation

https://avyssunshinetribe.com/

https://www.instagram.com/avyssunshinetribe 

https://www.facebook.com/AvysSunshineTribe

Beyond the Monsters Socials

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.