The "Saving Him" Illusion: Love, Loss, and Finding Freedom

So many women in difficult relationships hold onto a dangerous belief: if I just love him enough, I can save him. Psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott knows this illusion all too well. In her memoir Nightbird (Pierian Springs Press, May 12), she unflinchingly shares her journey through an emotionally abusive marriage, her husband's tragic suicide, and the painful yet liberating process of rebuilding her life. In this conversation, Shavaun and I explore: Why so many women feel responsible for "saving" their partners—and how that belief keeps us trapped. How suicide or the threat of can be a control tactic and how greater awareness leads to compassion. The structural and emotional barriers that keep survivors in cycles of abuse—and what it takes to break free. How trauma, grief, and loss can become unlikely catalysts for healing, self-discovery, and even freedom. The power of authentic connection in reclaiming identity and rebuilding after devastation. Shavaun's story is raw, sobering, and ultimately full of hope. Whether you've faced abuse, grappled with loss, or love someone who has, her voice is a reminder that healing is possible, and freedom is worth fighting for. Learn more about Shavaun's work and her book Nightbird at shavaunscott.com . Pre-order my book Stronger In The Difficult Places: drzoeshaw.com/book Free Downloads: Download the Steps to Healing from Complex Shame™ PDF : here Get the First Chapter of Stronger in the Difficult Places: here Connect with me: Dr. Zoe Shaw on Instagram Dr. Zoe Shaw on Facebook Dr. Zoe Shaw Website

You can listen to The "Saving Him" Illusion: Love, Loss, and Finding Freedom online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

The "Saving Him" Illusion: Love, Loss, and Finding Freedom is an episode from Stronger in the Difficult Places by Dr. Zoe Shaw.

This episode is 30:39 long.

This episode was published on Aug 21, 2025.

Yes. Use the heart button on the episode page to add it to your favorite episodes list.

Yes. This page shows related episodes from Stronger in the Difficult Places when more episodes are available from the podcast feed.