Episode #106: Leaving Financial Abuse: What Women Need to Know Before Starting Over

This conversation originally aired during our 2025 Breaking the Chains… Escaping Abuse telesummit with financial coach Suzanne Skolian, where we discussed one of the most overlooked forms of abuse: financial control.

Financial abuse rarely begins with obvious manipulation. Often, it starts slowly through secrecy, monitoring, “allowances,” restricted access to accounts, damaged credit, or being made to feel incapable of surviving independently. Over time, money becomes more than a financial issue—it becomes a tool of fear, dependency, humiliation, and control.

In this episode, we discuss:

•  the hidden warning signs of financial abuse 
•  how toxic partners use money to create dependence 
•  the emotional and spiritual toll of financial control 
•  credit destruction and economic sabotage 
•  practical steps toward rebuilding independence safely 
•  resources available for women trying to leave abusive situations 
•  why financial abuse keeps so many women trapped longer than people realize 

Suzanne Skolian of Grace Financial Coaching shares practical financial guidance for women navigating difficult transitions, including budgeting, rebuilding credit, emergency planning, financial literacy, and understanding available support systems. 

If you have ever felt trapped, ashamed, financially dependent, or afraid of starting over, this conversation was created to remind you that you are not weak, and you are not alone.

Because you are not alone.
 You are not crazy.
 And you are deeply loved.