My Childhood was Stolen

In this unforgettable episode of Free Like Me, Michael Gonzalez shares his deeply personal story of surviving childhood sexual abuse by a trusted teacher in Leonia, New Jersey. As he revisits the dark memories of grooming, manipulation, and betrayal that began in the 1960s, Michael reveals how the trauma shaped his youth, his time in the military, and ultimately led him to confront his abuser decades later.

🎧 Warning: This episode contains graphic discussions of child abuse and trauma. Viewer discretion is advised.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:06 Childhood and Early Life
01:44 The Abuser's Manipulation
03:09 The Grooming Process
04:26 The Impact of Abuse
14:18 Family Dynamics and Further Abuse
14:59 Revelations and Legal Actions
21:11 Educational Struggles and Coping Mechanisms
23:57 Early Substance Use and Coping Mechanisms
24:36 High School Experiences and Alcohol Use
26:16 Military Service and Family Revelations
29:24 Confronting the Abuser
31:33 Breaking the Silence
36:06 Social Media and Legal Actions
41:43 Advocacy and Regrets
47:51 Healing and Moving Forward

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