E68: Naming the Harm | Dr. Susan Osborn on Incest, Power, and Breaking the Silence - Advocacy in Action

Send us Fan MailIn this week’s episode of Aspire – Advocacy in Action, host Katie M. Shipp and co-hosts Ryan and Maria welcome Dr. Susan Osborn, award-winning author of She's Such a Liar: Incest, Knowledge & Power—A Manifesto. Dr. Osborn discusses how incest has been historically hidden, minimized, and dismissed, and explores the social, legal, and cultural forces that shape whether survivors are believed.The conversation examines the power of language in confronting abuse and accountability. Dr. Osborn explains why she uses the term “incestor” to describe a father who commits sexual violence against his daughter, arguing that precise language helps expose the systems that protect perpetrators and silence survivors.Together, the hosts and Dr. Osborn explore the impact of survivor storytelling, the role of medical and legal institutions in perpetuating silence, and why young advocates like Ryan are essential voices in advancing change. Rather than viewing incest as a private family matter, Dr. Osborn reframes it as a systemic issue sustained by broader cultural and institutional structures.This episode offers a thoughtful discussion on power, accountability, and the importance of creating communities where survivors are heard, believed, and supported.For more information about Susan Osborn, visit susanosborn.netTo support the fight against sexual violence, sign the pledge at ihavetherightto.org/take-actionSupport the showAspire is produced by BenHudakProductions.com