ABOUT THIS EPISODE
On this weeks episode of Twenty Something, Gina Beus is sharing her story of surviving a six-year abusive relationship, losing herself along the way, and eventually finding the courage to use her voice. Years after escaping, Gina learned that her abuser had been arrested for what he did to another woman. When authorities asked other victims to come forward, Gina faced a terrifying decision: stay silent or tell the truth about what had happened to her. She chose to speak. Her words were ultimately used in his sentencing, and today, her abuser is in prison.
Gina opens up about the red flags she ignored in the relationship, the fear and manipulation that kept her stuck, the shame that made her hide what was happening from the people she loved, and the moment she looked in the mirror and realized she didn’t recognize herself anymore.
Olivia and Gina discuss why people stay in relationships they know aren’t healthy, how people-pleasing can slowly teach you to ignore your own boundaries, what abuse can look like when there aren’t obvious signs from the outside, and how to support someone you love who may not be ready to leave.
But Gina’s story doesn’t end with what happened to her. Olivia and Gina also talk about rebuilding confidence, learning to trust yourself again, strengthening your voice through small everyday moments, and deciding what you will and won’t accept in a relationship. Gina shares how she found her way back to herself, eventually found a safe and healthy love with the man who is now her husband, how she teaches her daughter about healthy love, and why knowing your own worth can change the relationships you choose.
Whether you’ve experienced abuse yourself, watched someone you love go through it, or simply want to better understand what these relationships can look like, this conversation is an important one.
You have a voice. And it is never too late to find your way back to yourself.
