96. Reclaiming Yourself: Healing from Abusive Relationships with Ashley Maland

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we welcome Ashley Maland, Host of the "This Is Where We Heal" Podcast, to have a conversation with us about the complex journey of surviving an abusive relationship.

We'll uncover how to begin healing from abusive and toxic relationships—whether it’s domestic violence, sexual assault, or the emotional scars left by narcissistic abuse—and discover the initial steps you can take if you find yourself in a harmful or volatile situation.

Ashley shares her insights on trusting yourself, practicing self-forgiveness, and how we can build healthy foundations in early dating without rushing, falling into self-sabotage, or repeating old patterns.

Together, we’ll talk about how your most loving, authentic self is the best version of you—even if past experiences have left you feeling hardened—and how to shift from a victim mentality to that of a victor.

We'll also ask the tough questions, like are all abusers narcissists? Is there really a rock bottom moment, or is that just an illusion? Why is it so hard to break free from an abuser?

If you're ready to believe in what’s possible, trust your inner voice, and reclaim your power in love and life, then this episode is for you.

Alright Flirties, let’s go on on healing journey with Ashley Maland.

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About our guest: Ashley Taylor Maland is a multi-talented social media influencer, writer, and healing from DV & SA advocate. With a dedicated following of over half a million followers, she has garnered widespread attention for her impactful content, including viral videos that have amassed over 20 million views. Ashley's platform serves as a space for discussions on healing, authenticity, toxic relationships, self-belief, and self-improvement.

Ashley is a resilient single mother who balances her various roles with grace and determination. As the podcast host for “This Is Where We Heal” she utilizes her platform to amplify important conversations and share empowering stories. Using her own experiences to raise awareness and offer support to others facing similar challenges in relationships and healing.

Driven by her belief in the power of authenticity, Ashley strives to inspire and encourage her audience to embrace their true selves, prioritize self-care, and break free from toxic relationships. Her unwavering commitment to personal growth and empowerment has solidified her reputation as a positive force in the online community.

Her podcast “This Is Where We Heal” can be found on Apple, Spotify & YouTube.

Listen to the This is Where We Heal Podcast, and follow Ashley on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

About your host: Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun!

As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage.

Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self.

His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal.

You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.