John O’Leary welcomes domestic violence survivor Lovern Gordon to share her journey and offers the tools to become part of the solution by providing resources to others on the Live Inspired Podcast.
Did you know that in the United States, one in every four women, one in three teenagers and one in seven men will be abused in their lifetime?
Growing up on the Caribbean Island of Trinidad, Lovern Gordon watched her father brutally abuse her mother and four siblings. After migrating to the United States as a young adult, Lovern never expected to find herself in her own abusive relationship.
Today, Lovern has risen from the ashes of these two severe domestic violence situations and is helping others thrive after leaving toxic situations through her Love Life Now Foundation.
With strength, positivity, and perseverance, Lovern joins us to share her journey and offers the tools to become part of the solution by providing resources to victims and survivors.
Whether you’re a survivor of trauma or want to support those in need, this conversation is for you.
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SHOW NOTES:
- “We are two people at any given point.” – Lovern on why the cover of her book shows a the polarizing view of domestic violence abuse victims.
- Although Lovern saw whispers of jealousy with her boyfriend Guy, she was smitten and clung onto the relationship thinking there was nothing better.
- “When born into an abusive household, you don’t see the beginning, or you don’t know what red flags your mom missed.” Even vowing to not be a victim like her mother, Lovern didn’t know what warning signs she should have been recognizing at the on-set of her own domestic violence.
- “You do not need to walk around with their secret shame or guilt. That belongs to your abuser.”
- As an upstander, Lovern reminds us to provide support by connecting the person being abused with a DV agency, offer to watch their children or join them at an intake appointment. Yet, refrain from forcing them to make a move before they’re ready as it may not be safe for them to leave the toxic environment.
- If you see something say something. If you witness someone being abused, get yourself safe then call the authorities.
- “The cycle of abuse repeats itself very early on.”
- If you’re struggling, Lovern encourages us to create a level of self-worth through journaling, creating boundaries, or volunteering.
- By journaling, many times you’re able to recognize when a relationship turned a dark corner and when abuse started.
- Get a copy of Lovern Gordon’s The Legacy He Left Me.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Evy Pompouras. As a former U.S. Secret Service Special Agent, Evy has worked protective detail for four U.S. Presidents and is trained by the Department of Defense in the art and science of lie detection, human behavior and cognitive influence. My conversation with Evy will spark inspiration to find the strongest, fearless version of yourself. Listen to ep. 228 here.
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About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.
LOVERN GORDON'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Waiting to Exhale by Terry McMillian. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. Use my voice more. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. A storage bin of pictures of my family. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. My aunt and my father. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. My sister told me, “Your marriage is between you and your husband. Your family is your family and you must do what’s best for them.” - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. Trust your instincts. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. I’m still standing.
