Show Notes
In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi speaks with Andrew Goss about the lifelong impact of childhood abuse - and the role silence, minimisation, and adult neutrality play in allowing harm to continue.
Andrew shares his lived experience of family violence, sexual abuse (including female offending), and the repeated moments where warning signs were visible - but not acted upon. Together, Kristi and Andrew explore why children often try to communicate harm through behaviour, how grooming operates across different contexts, and why asking questions early can interrupt abuse before it escalates.
This is not a sensational conversation. It’s a necessary one.
⚠️ Content Warning
This episode includes discussion of:
childhood sexual abuse
family and domestic violence
grooming behaviours
trauma responses
Some listeners may find this content confronting. Please listen with care and step away if needed. Support resources are listed below.
Key Themes Covered
Why silence and “staying neutral” is not harmless
How children communicate harm through behaviour
Grooming behaviours across male and female offending
Why adults often dismiss or minimise warning signs
The long-term impact of not being believed
How early intervention can change outcomes
Advocacy, boundaries, and choosing how to help safely
Why This Conversation Matters
Most abuse doesn’t continue because no one notices. It continues because adults feel uncomfortable asking questions - or assume someone else will act.
This episode invites parents, carers, and professionals to reflect on the small moments where intervention matters, and how noticing, listening, and responding early can disrupt harm.
Practical Support & Resources
If this episode has raised questions about how to start calm, age-appropriate safety conversations with children, Kristi has created practical tools to support parents and carers.
🔗 Explore resources and education: 👉 www.kristimcvee.com
Resources include:
conversation guides for parents
body safety education tools
support for having protective conversations without fear or overwhelm
Support Services (Australia)
If you or someone you love needs support, help is available:
Lifeline – 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
1800RESPECT (sexual assault, domestic & family violence) – 1800 737 732 or 1800respect.org.au
Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5–25) – 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au
If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.
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