Episode Details

Kyleigh’s story begins in Eastern Iowa, moving through foster care in early childhood before being adopted at a young age. Inside that adoptive home, she describes years of SA, physical abuse, neglect, and adults who prioritized image over child safety. As a teenager, after a report was finally taken seriously, Kyleigh was removed by authorities and placed back into the system, moving through temporary placements before transitioning into independent living.

Adulthood did not bring immediate stability. Kyleigh describes marrying young while trying to escape having no family foundation, only to find herself in a relationship that escalated to domestic violence. The military later became a turning point, first through the National Guard and then active duty service, including Hurricane Harvey response and deployment to Afghanistan. Her story traces how childhood trauma, domestic violence, housing insecurity at different points in life, and military service intersect without a simple cause-and-effect narrative.

Kyleigh’s Links:

https://www.instagram.com/kyleighraexo

https://www.tiktok.com/@kyleighraexo

https://www.facebook.com/kyleighrae19

Kyleigh’s Outfit:

https://www.instagram.com/urbanecollectivellc

Resources:

National Domestic Violence Hotline

800-799-7233

Text BEGIN to 88788

Crisis Text Line

741741

RAINN

1-800-656-HOPE

Beyond the Monsters’ Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/

https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters

Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and educational discussion. It is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own care.

Topics: foster care, failed adoption, domestic violence, military service, childhood trauma

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