Why Women Don't "Just Leave" | Siobhan O'Donnell on Domestic Violence, Coercive Control & Rebuilding After Abuse

Domestic violence rarely begins with violence.

It often starts with love, charm, fast-moving commitment, and small moments that slowly chip away at your confidence, independence and sense of self.

In this deeply vulnerable conversation, Chloe sits down with law student, entrepreneur, podcaster and mum Siobhan O'Donnell, who shares her personal journey through an abusive relationship, coercive control, financial abuse, physical violence and the incredibly difficult path to leaving.

Siobhan speaks openly about the subtle red flags she missed, how pregnancy changed everything, why leaving wasn't as simple as "just walking away", and the practical support that ultimately helped save both her and her young son.

This episode is honest, confronting and incredibly important. Whether you're questioning your own relationship, supporting someone you love, or simply wanting to better understand domestic and family violence, this conversation could change the way you see it.

Resources

If this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available.

Australia

1800RESPECT — 1800 737 732 (24/7)

Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14

Women's Legal Services Australia

National Legal Aid

In an emergency, always call 000.

Guess bio: Siobhan Freda O'Donnell is a law graduate, entrepreneur, podcaster, and survivor of domestic and family violence.

After surviving years of coercive control, emotional abuse, financial abuse, and physical violence, Siobhan made the courageous decision to leave and begin rebuilding her life alongside her young son. Her lived experience has inspired her to pursue a career in law, with a passion for supporting women navigating domestic violence and helping others better understand the legal protections available to them.

Alongside her legal career, Siobhan hosts the podcast Power Without Permission, where she shares honest conversations about resilience, personal growth, business, and navigating life's hardest seasons. Through her advocacy, she hopes more women will recognise the warning signs of coercive control, trust their instincts, and know that they are never alone.

You can find Siobhan on Instagram at @siobhanfredaodonnell, listen to her podcast Power Without Permission on Spotify.

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