Summary: Viv McGrath shares her story of how she survived a domestic violent relationship when she was a young mother. She wants us to know that there is life after abuse and how she was able to break the cycle. Viv was inspired by Rosie Batty and her courage when her son was killed by his father at cricket training in Australia. Channel 7, Australia has kindly shared a news clip with us of Rosie being interviewed after the event. Viv has written a book Unbeatable: (How I left a violent man), her memoir of how she survived an abusive relationship and how she broke the cycle of violence. Viv turned her life around to become strong, fearless and successful. She has a blog where she covers all aspects of domestic violent relationships and helps others in the process. We discuss manipulation tactics, narcissism, gas lighting and the “dysfunctional dance (men do) to see if they can test your boundaries.” Viv shares the importance of noticing the warning signs and trusting your instincts as it is very easy to get “locked into this very unhealthy and addictive dynamic.” She shares advice for those who are in a similar situation and her greatest takeaways from her own experiences. Viv talks about how she had to overcome the shame of being caught in this dangerous situation and gives us some top tips for loving ourselves, building self esteem, not listening to that inner voice and overcoming that shame. This is courageous and honest account of a very harrowing and deeply personal experience. A story not to be missed.
