OvercomeOutloud Ep.34 Patricia McCleanOvercomeOutloud Ep.34 Patricia McClean
OvercomeOutloud
In a very revealing and powerful episode on domestic violence Patrisha McLean, the founder of Finding Our Voices and the ex wife of singer Don McLean, shares her story of overcoming years of spousal abuse at the hands of her abusive ex-husband. We learn about the progression and controlling nature of domestic violence and how Patrisha endured verbal and emotional abuse which escalated into a violent end. She is very vocal about the shortcomings of the legal system and advocates passionately for victims of abuse to help them literally find their voices. Patrisha McLean, founder/president of Finding Our Voices, is a photojournalist and human rights advocate who in July 2021 was named by WOMEN'S e-News as one of 21 Leaders for the 21st Century. In 2016, Patrisha's secret of 29 years was outed in the most public way possible with worldwide headlines over the domestic violence arrest of her celebrity husband. Dozens of women in her small community in Maine told her they too had been terrorized by an intimate partner: They hadn't known about her and she hadn't known about them and they all had felt alone. Patrisha's eyes being opened to how domestic abuse is everywhere-- but no one knows because no one talks abut it --sparked Finding Our Voices. Finding Our Voices is a sisterhood of survivors standing proud and speaking loud to educate everyone about the pervasiveness, insidiousness and complexity of domestic abuse (including that emotional abuse can be at least as damaging as physical abuse). They empower girls and women to recognize, avoid, safely leave and heal from dangerous relationships, and promote systemic change toward justice for victims, accountability for perpetrators and safety for all. Learn more at https://findingourvoices.net/
56:52•26 Aug 2021
Patrisha McClean: Finding Strength in the Face of Domestic Violence
“I think the best thing you can do is be there for them, that you love them, that you value them, you think they're and be a reality check.”
Imagine enduring years of abuse, feeling trapped and unheard. In this compelling episode of OvercomeOutloud, Patrisha McClean, founder and president of Finding Our Voices, opens up about her harrowing experience with spousal abuse. Patrisha's story is not just one of survival but of finding strength and a voice in the face of unimaginable adversity. She sits down with host Charlie Smith to discuss how domestic violence crept into her life, escalating from verbal and emotional torment to physical violence.
Patrisha also highlights the systemic failures that often leave victims without adequate protection or support. Throughout the episode, she passionately advocates for those still suffering in silence, urging them to speak out and seek help. Patrisha's journey to healing was fraught with challenges, including overcoming childhood trauma and addiction, which made her vulnerable to abusive relationships. Her candid discussion on vulnerability and the importance of a strong support system is both moving and empowering.
Through her organization, Finding Our Voices, Patrisha is dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for victims of domestic violence. Her tireless work has made a significant impact on countless lives, offering a beacon of hope for those in similar situations. This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by domestic violence or who knows someone in such circumstances. Patrisha's story serves as a powerful reminder that healing is possible and that breaking the silence is the first step towards recovery.
As she poignantly states, 'The best thing you can do is be there for them, show them love, value them, and be a reality check'. Tune in to hear more about Patrisha's inspiring journey and learn how you can help end the cycle of abuse.
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