Brandi Morey-Pols shares the story of her six-year-old son, Rowan, who was murdered by his biological father just days before a custody hearing that she hoped would finally bring him to safety. She recounts years of coercive control, stalking, emotional abuse, repeated warnings that went unheard, and the devastating failures of multiple systems that left Rowan unprotected despite mounting evidence and escalating concerns.

Brandi and Chell explore what happens when coercive control is dismissed, warning signs are overlooked, and systems fail to recognize the danger children can face during custody disputes. Brandi also shares how honoring Rowan's life has become her purpose through the Rowan Project and Rowan's Promise, advocating for greater awareness of filicide, stronger protections for children, and legislative change aimed at preventing other families from experiencing the same unimaginable loss.

Brandi’s Links:

https://www.instagram.com/dollbb55

https://therowanproject.org/

https://www.facebook.com/brandi.brennan.3

Resources:

The Rowan Project - List of Resources

https://therowanproject.org/?page_id=1989

Crisis Text Line

741741

National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-7233

National Child Abuse Hotline

1-800-422-4453 – push 1 to talk to a hotline counselor

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.

Topic: filicide, family court failure, coercive control, domestic violence (DV), custody system failure, true crime

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