3. Girl, You Deserve More!
Taking back control of your financial future after abuse starts with small, deliberate steps. In this episode, US Navy veteran and economist Christy Piper shares insights from her own journey through financial abuse and her expertise helping others break free from toxic relationships.
As the author of "Girl You Deserve More: How to Break His Spell Over You, Escape Your Toxic Partner and Become Independent," Christy addresses both breadwinners who are forced to support an abusive partner and those who have been financially controlled with no access to their own money. She explains how to begin building financial independence secretly and safely, even in situations where every dollar is monitored.
Drawing from personal experience and her work with survivors, Christy discusses practical strategies for documenting abuse, creating private bank accounts, identifying trustworthy allies, and maintaining "normal" appearances while planning an exit. She shares candid insights about the risks of confiding in the wrong people and how to find truly reliable support systems.
Whether you're gathering courage to leave or rebuilding after escaping financial abuse, this conversation offers actionable steps to help you move forward. Listen in as Christy provides guidance on reclaiming your financial power while protecting your safety and wellbeing.
Key Highlights:
Breadwinners aren't immune - some abusers deliberately target financially successful partners, draining their resources while maintaining control.
Keep your circle small. Even well-meaning friends can accidentally expose your plans. Trust only 1-3 people who understand the need for complete privacy.
Maintain appearances while planning your exit. Keep your usual patterns while quietly building separate accounts and savings.
Document everything. Written records of financial control and abuse become your proof against gaslighting and denial.
Watch for increased surveillance when planning to leave. Abusers often escalate tracking of phones, cars, and accounts during this time.
False hope keeps you stuck. While you're hoping things might improve, you're less likely to take steps toward freedom.
