Free Like-Me

Religious trauma. Coercive control. Addiction. Depression. Deanna survived all of it — and rebuilt her life on her own terms. Deanna grew up inside a strict Fundamental Baptist home where shame replaced support and obedience replaced safety. When she finally left, she had no tools to recognize manipulation — which made her the perfect target. A man named Steve used love-bombing, ecstasy, and calculated coercive control to pull her into repeated sexual exploitation she identifies as rape. When she told her family, they stayed silent.What followed was a spiral into heavy drinking, multiple DUIs, and a depression she drowned in alcohol. Rock bottom came in a jail cell. From there — through Alcoholics Anonymous, treatment, and community — she built something no one handed her: long-term sobriety, a storytelling platform called Intrepid Storytelling, and a family of three kids she created by choice through IVF, foster care, and adoption.This is what recovering from religion and trauma actually looks like.

Ian Bick joins Clark Fredericks on the Free Like Me Podcast.It started with hustle. As a bullied teenager desperate for acceptance, Ian channeled his energy into school dances, house parties, and eventually some of the most profitable teen nightclub events in his region. But when he tried to scale into full-size concerts, the losses came fast — and instead of stepping back, he doubled down.He guaranteed investors their principal. Then he offered 50% returns through an electronics deal built on counterfeit products. When that fell apart, he started cycling new investor money to cover old promises. The spiral deepened with every failed show, every new pitch, every lie told to buy more time.Federal investigators took notice. What followed was an FBI raid, a wire fraud indictment, a gambling spiral that ran through his own trial, bond revocation, and ultimately a three-year federal sentence with $495,000 in restitution — most of which he has now paid back.Ian opens up about what prison actually taught him, how he rebuilt from the ground up through restaurant work and Whole Foods, and how a single viral TikTok post launched a criminal-justice podcast that now commands serious audiences and notable guests.This is a story about what happens when ambition outpaces integrity — and what it takes to earn your way back.

Survivor. Addict. Redeemed. Clark Fredericks interviews Armand — NJ native, heroin recovery survivor, childhood abuse survivor & author of He Calls Me Redeemed | Free Like Me PodcastArmand grew up in New Jersey with Armenian and Italian roots in a close-knit family. At 10 years old, a family friend's husband began abusing him — and the silence that followed set the course for the next decade of his life. By his teens he was dealing drugs, dropping out of high school, and spiraling from marijuana and alcohol to prescription pills and ultimately heroin.The night he found himself on train tracks with nothing left, he opened a Bible to Psalm 88 and prayed. What happened next he calls a miracle — a call back to Kezik Colony of Mercy, a counselor who walked him through forgiveness, and a faith that held when everything else had failed.Today Armand is a husband, a father, and the author of He Calls Me Redeemed — and he's urging every survivor to break their silence before it breaks them.

Clark Fredericks sits down with Anne-Marie — a survivor of non-stranger assault who spent decades in silence, then discovered her abuser was running for city council in Melrose, Massachusetts. What she did next took courage. What happened after tested everything. Anne-Marie lost her mother at seven and grew up near Boston in a home ruled by an abusive stepmother. As a high school senior on an unsupervised spring break trip to Bermuda, she was sexually assaulted by a male classmate after a night of drinking — an experience she buried for years under shame, silence, and self-doubt.It wasn't until the Brock Turner case resurfaced her trauma that she reached out to her abuser directly. Then in 2023, a Facebook message from a former roommate revealed he was campaigning for public office. Anne-Marie consulted legal counsel, posted a public statement — and faced denials, smear tactics, and retaliation.Now she's fighting to strengthen Massachusetts anti-SLAPP and defamation protections so survivors who speak out aren't punished for telling their truth.

Clark Fredericks sits down with Vanna — a survivor of childhood instability, severe abuse, and a terrifying knife incident — who found her way through faith, poetry, and the decision to break the cycle. | Free Like Me Podcast with Clark FredericksVanna grew up in constant chaos. Her mother had her at 13, later battled bipolar disorder and substance abuse, and made stability feel impossible. Her father was incarcerated until she was 13. By high school, Vanna was isolated, depressed, and facing suicidal thoughts with no support system. Then came the night her mother ran at her with a knife — the moment that changed everything.In this episode, Vanna opens up about CPS involvement, being parentified too young, moving out at 18, and the long road through therapy and numbness before real healing could begin. She talks about how faith, reading, and writing poetry became her lifeline — and why she's choosing stability over the cycles she was raised in.

What happens when a life marked by addiction, crime, and chaos turns into a mission to help others heal?In this episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, Brian McAlister shares how recovery became the foundation for a new purpose: building MyMentalHealth.org and VRS Freedom 365, a self-guided mental health and recovery program designed with privacy in mind. Brian breaks down the real turning points, what the 12-step process taught him, how he rebuilt his life from the ground up, and why personal accountability and daily habits can completely change your future.You’ll hear how Brian went from surviving day-to-day to creating tools meant to support people battling addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges. This conversation covers recovery, entrepreneurship, resilience, and the mindset shift that turns setbacks into fuel.

Kelly didn’t just serve, she survived a system that wasn’t built to protect her.In this episode of Free Like Me, Clark Fredericks sits down with Kelly, a veteran who shares what happened behind the uniform: the night that changed everything, the disorienting aftermath where time didn’t feel real, and the terrifying moment she realized she couldn’t simply “walk away.” Kelly describes the chilling calm of someone who never showed obvious warning signs, and how that silence became its own kind of threat.Kelly also pulls back the curtain on the culture that many women quietly endure, where young newcomers are treated like targets and speaking up can cost you everything. From testifying about military sexual assault to navigating retaliation, bureaucracy, and trauma recovery, Kelly’s story is a raw look at what it takes to fight for yourself when the system fights back.This conversation is about more than trauma, it’s about reclaiming power, telling the truth out loud, and rebuilding a life on your terms.⚠️ Viewer discretion advised: this episode discusses sexual assault, trauma, and PTSD

In this powerful episode of Free Like Me, Clark Fredericks sits down with Julia, who shares her story of surviving childhood sexual abuse and later escaping a dangerous domestic violence relationship. Julia opens up about the warning signs, the fear and control, the moment she realized she had to leave, and the difficult legal fight to protect her child. Today, she uses her voice to support other survivors and prove that healing and safety are possible after trauma.

In this powerful episode of Free Like Me, host Clark Fredericks welcomes Aziza Kibibi, author of “Unashamed: A Life Tainted”, to share her story of survival, healing, and advocacy. Aziza recounts her traumatic upbringing—isolated, homeschooled, and subjected to years of sexual and physical abuse by her father, a once-renowned music video director. Despite enduring unimaginable pain, Aziza found her strength through faith, education, and the power of her voice. Today, she’s a leading advocate for survivors, fighting to reform New Jersey’s incest laws and break generational cycles of silence and shame. This is more than a story—it’s a movement for truth and unashamed healing.

In this powerful episode of Free Like Me, Clark Fredericks sits down with Attorney Jeff Russo, a Warren County, NJ lawyer who has dedicated his career to fighting for victims of child sexual abuse. Russo shares how he entered this line of work, the shocking details behind the Edward Bullock case, and the systemic challenges survivors face within the legal system. From courtroom battles to emotional endurance, Jeff exposes how power, politics, and insurance loopholes can delay justice—and how survivors and advocates are fighting back to change the law.

In this week's episode of Free Like Me, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Mandy P, creator of Mandy P Talks Predators, to expose a disturbing story of abuse and manipulation inside a 12-step recovery program.Mandy, adopted at birth and a survivor of childhood abuse, shares how she was drawn into a cult-like AA group led by a charismatic but predatory figure named Mike. Her story reveals how even trusted recovery environments can become dangerous when power, vulnerability, and exploitation collide.

In this week's episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Remington, a survivor whose story unfolds like a movie — filled with abuse, betrayal, and unexpected connections to organized crime. From enduring a traumatic childhood and complex family dynamics in Sussex County, New Jersey, to facing SWAT raids and uncovering mob ties, Remington’s life has been marked by extraordinary challenges.But her story doesn’t end in tragedy — it’s one of resilience, recovery, and redemption. Remington opens up about the power of truth, the process of healing from deep trauma, and how faith and self-belief can turn pain into purpose. 

Forrest Lang — a Navy veteran, tattoo artist, and author of Angel Blue: A Song of Redemption. Forrest opens up about his painful childhood filled with abuse, neglect, and foster care trauma, and the years of alcoholism and self-destruction that followed.Forrest reveals how a tragic turning point forced him to face his demons and rebuild his life. From the depths of addiction to finding faith, purpose, and peace, his story is one of extraordinary resilience, redemption, and the courage to heal.If you’ve ever struggled with your past, this episode reminds you that it’s never too late to rewrite your story.

In this new episode of Free Like Me, Honey shares her powerful story of surviving childhood sexual abuse, family instability, and emotional neglect—and how she found the strength to confront her abuser and reclaim her voice.Honey opens up about the long-term effects of trauma on her relationships, mental health, and body image, including her struggle with anorexia and the journey toward healing and self-acceptance. Through therapy, faith, and motherhood, she discovered what it truly means to love herself after years of pain.Her story is one of resilience, empowerment, and hope—reminding survivors everywhere that while trauma shapes us, it doesn’t have to define us.

Abuse, Addiction & RecoveryIn this week's episode of Free Like Me, host Clark Fredericks sits down with author and speaker Paul Steele, who shares his inspiring path from surviving childhood sexual abuse to battling addiction, chronic pain, and near-death experiences—and ultimately finding healing through faith, therapy, and service.Paul opens up about the car crash that nearly took his life, his introduction to opioids, and the long road of physical and emotional recovery that followed. Breaking down how AA, honest conversations with family, and his spiritual practices helped him reclaim his life and purpose.Whether you're struggling with trauma, addiction, or searching for meaning—recovery is possible and your past doesn’t define your future.

In this week's episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Michele, who opens up about her painful childhood shaped by narcissistic parents and years of sexual abuse by a trusted family friend. From early neglect and trauma to addiction, toxic relationships, and time in a psych ward, Michele shares her story of recovery and self‑discovery. Through therapy and faith, she finds self‑love, forgiveness, and healing after years of silence.This episode sheds light on the hidden scars of childhood abuse, the psychological effects of narcissistic parenting, and the power of therapy in reclaiming your life. Michele’s journey is a powerful reminder that healing is possible — even after the darkest beginnings.

Live book signing event in Stillwater, NJ, Clark Fredericks shares his personal journey of surviving childhood sexual abuse at the hands of Dennis Pegg, a once-trusted community figure. Joined by fellow survivors and supporters, Clark opens up about his years of trauma, addiction, and the breaking point that led to a life-altering act of justice. Through honest conversation and vulnerability, this event highlights the urgent need to break the silence around abuse, confront the past, and embrace the path toward healing and transformation. This video stands as a beacon of strength and hope for others who may still be suffering in silence.

In this week's episode, Clark sits down with his high school friend Jim opens up about the early traumas he kept hidden, the pain of silence, and the dangerous road it led him down — including substance abuse, emotional breakdowns, and eventually, a murder conviction.Jim reflects on his time in prison, the brutal realities of the Texas prison system, and the slow climb toward healing through therapy, faith, and facing his past head-on. This episode is a reminder of how unspoken pain can shape a life — and how telling your truth can set you free.🔔 If this conversation resonates with you or someone you know, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a comment. You're not alone.

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.

In this week's episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, 31‑year‑old Nick Palmer shares how alcohol took over his life from his teenage years through his twenties — and the moment that changed everything. Nick opens up about early family life, rebellious teenage drinking, multiple stints in rehab, relapse cycles, and the turning point at his 30th birthday that led to real recovery. This inspiring episode shines a light on the realities of addiction, the importance of support, and how sobriety can transform a life. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement or understanding about addiction and recovery.

He Was Only 13 When They Shackled Him. What Came Next Was Even Worse.In this jaw-dropping episode of Free Like Me, Chris Cook takes us inside the nightmare he lived as a young teen abused by the very system meant to protect him. From being shackled like a criminal at 13 to being groomed and betrayed by a high-ranking sheriff, Chris’s life spiraled into alcoholism, despair, and multiple suicide attempts.But this is also a story of unimaginable strength. Now sober and using his voice to advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse, Chris reveals how he finally broke free from shame, addiction, and silence. If you've ever felt broken, trapped, or voiceless—this episode will hit home.💬 “The system failed me. But I fought back—and survived.”Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimedhttps://a.co/d/jiVW408

In this new episode, The Free Like Me Podcast welcomes Selena, a survivor of sex trafficking and addiction, who now serves as the Program Director at Hope Rising Arizona. From growing up surrounded by dysfunction in Mesa, Arizona, to entering the adult film industry and facing the horrors of international trafficking, Selena's story is one of unimaginable pain—and powerful recovery.Selena opens up about her early exposure to trauma, her battles with substance abuse, her forced involvement in sex work, and the pivotal moment that sparked her transformation. Now nearly a decade sober, Selena is helping others walk the same path to healing and redemption.🎧 If you've ever doubted the human capacity to overcome, this episode is for you.

Inside the Fight Against Clergy Abuse: David Clohessy Speaks OutOn this episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks interviews David Clohessy, a courageous survivor and former national director of SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests). David shares his own traumatic experience of clergy abuse and how it led to decades of advocacy work helping others break the silence. They dive into the deep systemic failures of the Catholic Church, the urgent need for legal reforms, and the personal cost of speaking out. This powerful conversation is a must-watch for those seeking justice, healing, and awareness around clergy abuse and institutional cover-ups.Check out my website: davidclohessy.comtwitter: @davidgclohessyHow you can help: https://www.snapnetwork.org/you_can_make_a_differenceWhat is SNAP? (60 seconds)https://www.davidclohessy.com/blog/what-is-the-survivors-network-of-those-abused-by-priestsLists of predators? (60 seconds)https://www.davidclohessy.com/blog/how-snap-is-working-to-uncover-abuse-in-the-catholic-church

In this episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Sunny, a performer in the adult entertainment industry, to explore the human side behind the headlines. Sunny opens up about her childhood, her reasons for entering the industry, and the personal and financial realities that shape her decisions. She also discusses how she maintains healthy relationships, navigates judgment, and plans for a future beyond the adult world. Her story is honest, eye-opening, and rooted in resilience.

Overcoming Addiction: From Homeless Drug Addict to Successful Entrepreneur | Joe D's StoryIn this powerful episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark welcomes Joe D from Connecticut, who shares his incredible journey of redemption and resilience. At 17, Joe was shot four times during a drug deal gone wrong. Despite the trauma and subsequent descent into heavy drug use and homelessness, Joe turned his life around dramatically. After serving in the military and battling addiction, Joe transformed his life to become a successful family man and business owner. This episode delves into Joe's upbringing, the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that spurred change, and the importance of support and self-belief in overcoming adversity. Joe's story is a testament to the power of inner strength and the possibility of turning even the darkest times into a bright, thriving future.

Mark Crawford, Director of SNAP NJ, joins The Free Like Me Podcast to share his shocking personal story of clergy abuse and his journey to becoming a leading voice for survivors. Host Clark Fredericks dives into systemic failures within the Catholic Church, the justice system’s inaction, and the importance of legislative reform. This episode uncovers truths about Seton Hall, Cardinal Tobin, and how survivors are fighting for justice and healing. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, this emotional and eye-opening conversation is a must-watch.

From abuse and addiction to healing and hope — Jan’s journey will leave you speechless. In this gripping episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Jan from Winnipeg, who opens up about growing up in a violent, abusive household, struggling with addiction, and finding redemption after devastating loss. She recounts becoming a corrections officer, finding true love, and ultimately discovering her purpose through pain. If you’ve faced trauma, loss, or addiction — this conversation is for you.

Overcame childhood stutter to become a cop. In this new episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with retired Newton, NJ police officer Ken Teets. From being bullied as a child for his severe stutter to achieving a 25-year career in law enforcement, Ken's story is a true testament to perseverance. He shares how he was inspired by movies like Rocky and The King’s Speech, and how support from mentors and internal strength helped him turn setbacks into success.Whether you’ve faced speech issues, bullying, or self-doubt, this episode offers hope and real-life strategies for pushing past limitations and proving the world wrong.

Facing the Past: Jody Plauché’s Survival Story | Free Like Me PodcastIn this gripping episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Jody Plauché, survivor of one of America’s most shocking abuse and vigilante justice cases. Jody courageously recounts how his trusted karate instructor, Jeff Doucet, manipulated, groomed, and ultimately kidnapped him, taking him across the country. The trauma came to a turning point when Jody’s father, Gary Plauché, publicly shot Doucet at the Baton Rouge airport — a moment caught on national TV and replayed for decades.Jody opens up about the emotional aftermath, his complex feelings toward his father’s actions, and how he’s used his experience to educate others. He also discusses his book "Why, Gary, Why?" and the importance of open communication to prevent abuse. This episode is a powerful look into trauma, justice, healing, and how one man turned his darkest chapter into purpose.

From Dreams to Nightmares: Shelby's Journey in LAIn this powerful episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks interviews Shelby Lyn, a young actress and singer who shares her turbulent adventure in the entertainment industry. Shelby recounts her significant experiences, including moving from Connecticut to LA, navigating the challenging landscape of Hollywood, and dealing with predatory behavior from industry insiders. Despite facing immense obstacles and trauma, Shelby finds strength in therapy and a supportive community, while continuing to pursue her passions. She also discusses the importance of finding trustworthy people in the industry and overcoming the pressure to maintain a certain image. Shelby's story is a testament to resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Trusting Monsters: The Fortney Sisters' Story | Free Like Me PodcastIn this compelling episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks welcomes Lara and Patty Fortney, two of the five Fortney sisters who were horrifically abused by a Catholic priest. They speak their truth, detailing the grooming process and the harrowing abuses they endured, which were systemically covered up by the Catholic Church. The conversation sheds light on the impact of this abuse on their lives and their relentless fight for justice, including advocating for legislative changes to statutorily protect survivors. If you're a survivor or an advocate, this episode is a crucial listen. Reach out to be a guest on the show or learn more about Clark's upcoming book 'Scarred' and his coaching programs by visiting freelikeme.com.

Sex Work, Satanism, and Salvation Nicole Lee’s Unbelievable StoryIn this powerful episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Nicole Lee—a survivor of abuse, exploitation, and spiritual crisis. Nicole opens up about her traumatic childhood, her path into the adult film industry, and how years of pain led her through witchcraft and satanism before finding healing through faith, sobriety, and a renewed purpose in life.From her rise in the world of online sex work to surviving horrific experiences and walking away from the industry entirely, Nicole's journey is one of redemption, courage, and transformation. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your past, Nicole's story will remind you that healing is possible, no matter how dark the journey has been.👉 Subscribe for more survivor stories and personal transformations.🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this very personal episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Adon, who opens up about his battle with alcoholism, drug addiction, and the lasting effects of growing up in a dysfunctional home. From a childhood shaped by his father’s addiction to falling into his own destructive habits, Adon shares how he reached rock bottom—and the powerful steps he took to climb his way out.Now 18 months sober, Adon talks about the tools that have helped him maintain recovery, including therapy, physical fitness, personal accountability, and surrounding himself with a strong support network. This raw and hopeful conversation is a testament to the strength it takes to break generational cycles and reclaim your life.If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, this episode is a must-listen.👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more real stories of healing and redemption.📘 Don’t forget to check out Clark’s new book Scarred — available July 29th!

The Millionaire Murder: Alan Jr. Breaks His Silence on His Father’s Conviction | Free Like Me PodcastFrom private schools and nightclubs to the school bus empire his father built from nothing, Alan Jr. recounts the psychological toll of navigating family loyalty amid legal chaos. He walks us through the moment his father was arrested for the murder of Frank Black, the controversial trial that followed, and the ripple effect it had on his own life, career, and mental health.This episode is an emotional look at how one man is reclaiming his narrative, using his pain as a platform to help others find purpose through adversity.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories of transformation and resilience.📘 Clark’s new book Scarred is available July 29th!

From Privilege to Pain: The Alan Kerley Story | Free Like Me PodcastIn this gripping episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Alan Kerley, son of business mogul Alan M. Lee Sr., whose rise from humble beginnings led to a powerful bus company empire. But behind the success was a darker story—one that includes a high-profile murder trial, family scandal, and the crushing pressure of maintaining a legacy in the public eye.Alan opens up about navigating privilege, trauma, and the burden of a father’s reputation. From private schools to business deals, and from loyalty to betrayal, this episode explores the collision of success and self-destruction. Alan’s journey is a raw look at resilience, redemption, and finding purpose after being forced to grow up fast in the shadow of wealth and scandal.📕 Don’t miss the upcoming release of Clark’s book Scarred, available July 29th.🔔 Subscribe now for more survivor stories and deep personal interviews.

Overcoming Addiction and Shame: Kimberly’s Powerful Story of Recovery | Free Like Me PodcastIn this gripping episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Kimberly—a former high-functioning nurse whose life was derailed by severe alcoholism. Kimberly shares her descent into addiction, including drinking rubbing alcohol at her lowest point, and how shame and silence nearly cost her everything. She opens up about the devastating impact of her father’s suicide, the weight of unresolved grief, and how it influenced her own battle with alcohol. Through rehab, reflection, and rebuilding, Kimberly found her way back to a life of purpose, clarity, and hope. This episode is a raw, honest, and empowering look at addiction recovery, mental health, and breaking the silence around shame.📘 Don’t miss Clark’s upcoming memoir Scarred, releasing July 29th — a story of pain, purpose, and personal transformation.

Surviving Hell: Ally’s Journey Through Trauma, Family Betrayal, and Resilience | Free Like Me PodcastIn this unforgettable episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Ally, a survivor whose courage knows no bounds. Ally recounts a harrowing childhood marked by extreme abuse—including sexual abuse facilitated by her own mother, emotional trauma from siblings, and a deeply fractured family dynamic. Despite unimaginable pain, Ally fought to reclaim her life. Through therapy, grounding techniques, a passion for justice, and the pursuit of becoming a lawyer, she has transformed her suffering into strength. Her story is a raw and honest look at survival, healing, and the power of reclaiming your voice. This episode sheds light on child trafficking, abuse within families, and the urgent need for compassion and awareness.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more survivor stories, healing conversations, and tools for transformation.

Finding Love After Trauma: Rosemary and Pasquale's Inspiring JourneyIn this heart-stirring episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks welcomes two courageous guests, Rosemary and Pasquale, who share their powerful stories of surviving childhood sexual abuse and discovering love through shared healing. Rosemary details her painful journey of trauma, therapy, and resilience, while Pasquale—a retired NYPD officer—reflects on his own past, the burden of silence, and his appearance on the podcast that changed everything. What began as separate stories of survival ultimately became a story of connection, faith, and the healing power of love. This episode is a testament to the strength of vulnerability and the unexpected beauty that can follow profound pain.

From Religious Trauma to Recovery: Mia’s Powerful Story of Healing and Self-Discovery | Free Like Me PodcastIn this deeply emotional episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Mia, who courageously opens up about her journey through childhood trauma, heartbreak, and the chaos of addiction. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, Mia reflects on the strict religious upbringing that shaped her early identity—and the traumatic event at 14 that forever changed her path. She discusses how self-sabotage, suppressed emotions, and unresolved grief led her into a battle with substance abuse. With honesty and strength, Mia shares how recovery, support, and self-discovery helped her break free from shame and rebuild her life. This episode is a hopeful look into the realities of trauma, mental health, and the daily commitment to healing.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories about trauma, recovery, and transformation.

An incredible woman from the Middle East, bravely shares her story of overcoming unimaginable trauma and heartbreak. From surviving childhood abuse to enduring the premature loss of her beloved husband, Samar reveals how she transformed her pain into strength. She discusses the moments that shaped her, her fight against societal shame, and how she found empowerment through resilience. This episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity to heal and thrive.

Uncovering Hidden Abuse: Coercive Control, Narcissism, and Child Protection with Dr. Christine Cocchiola | Free Like Me PodcastIn this powerful episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks welcomes Dr. Christine Cocchiola, a therapist and leading expert on narcissistic abuse, coercive control, and child advocacy. Dr. Christine courageously shares her personal story and professional insights, delving deep into the often-hidden psychological tactics abusers employ, including grooming, gaslighting, and financial manipulation. They also explore critical flaws within family courts and offer practical solutions and resources for protective parents and survivors. Tune in for eye-opening conversations designed to inform, empower, and inspire systemic change.🔔 Subscribe for more episodes on healing, resilience, and empowerment!

Surviving 'Stranger Danger': Keith Smith's Harrowing Tale of Abduction and Survival | Free Like Me PodcastIn this gripping episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Keith Smith, who bravely recounts his harrowing 1974 abduction by a stranger. Keith details the intense experience, from his terrifying kidnapping to the courageous escape and complex journey through the legal system to achieve justice. Keith also highlights his ongoing advocacy work, emphasizing the urgent need to reform statute of limitations laws to support survivors of sexual abuse. His remarkable journey showcases resilience, courage, and the transformative power of speaking out.

In this week's episode of "The Free Like Me Podcast," Hosted by Clark Fredericks guides listeners through Howard's transformative tale, from enduring his father's severe discipline to emerging as a beacon of hope in his community. Howard shares candid insights into the coping mechanisms that helped him survive, the solace he found in nature, and how he turned his painful experiences into opportunities for growth and helping others. This episode is a powerful affirmation of resilience, the healing power of sharing one's story, and the crucial role of transparency in overcoming trauma. Tune in to discover how Howard reshaped his legacy and continues to inspire those battling their own dark pasts.

The Fight For Healing with MMA: Rachel's Unbreakable JourneyIn the gripping episode of the "Free Like Me" podcast, host Clark Fredericks is joined by Rachel Beauchamp, an MMA fighter whose life story exemplifies the raw power of resilience. Rachel opens up about her traumatic childhood, marked by sexual abuse and neglect, which spiraled into a battle with addiction. Through her journey into mixed martial arts, Rachel found not just a sport but a pivotal means of coping and regaining her strength. Her story sheds light on the transformative impact of MMA in her life, providing a path to recovery and self-empowerment. Tune in to hear Rachel discuss how she turned her pain into a driving force, her ongoing recovery, and her mission to inspire and empower other women facing similar challenges.

In the gripping episode of the "Free Like Me" podcast, host Clark Fredericks is joined by Juanita from Wales, who courageously shares her profound journey of healing from past abuse. Through her narrative, Juanita delves into her childhood experiences of abuse by her headmaster and cousin, the long battle with dissociative amnesia, and the complexities of her adult relationships influenced by a tumultuous relationship with her narcissistic mother. The episode is enriched by Juanita's reading of a personal poem she penned during her healing, offering a unique insight into her emotional world. This story is not just about the struggles, but also about overcoming and finding renewed strength and hope. Join Juanita as she speaks her truth, sheds her shame, and embraces a renewed life.

In this episode of the "Free Like Me" podcast, we uncover the extraordinary life story of Denny Giamazzo. Starting from a difficult childhood overshadowed by his mother's struggles with addiction and her tragic death from AIDS, Denny's resilience shines through. He served in the Army National Guard, where he faced serious health challenges and intense combat zones. Now a successful podcast host and public speaker, Denny discusses his battle with PTSD, the transformative power of education, and his career transition into software sales. He emphasizes the crucial role of therapy, establishing positive daily routines, and cultivating a strong support network. Listen as Denny shares how he transformed his profound challenges into a source of strength and inspiration for others.

In the inspiring episode of the "Free Like Me" podcast, host Clark Fredericks engages with Ilyas to explore his transformative journey from a challenging childhood in a New Jersey community to becoming a dedicated police officer and an ATF task force member. Ilyas shares his experiences of family hardships, pivotal moments during police academy training, and confronting racism within law enforcement. 

Retired NYPD Officer Opens Up: From Trauma to TriumphHost Clark Fredericks invites retired NYPD officer Pasquale to share his powerful story of overcoming childhood trauma and achieving personal redemption. Throughout the discussion, Pasquale opens up about the deep-seated shame and fear that haunted him and how breaking his silence marked the beginning of his healing journey. The episode offers listeners the vital lessons on resilience and the courage needed to confront one's past. 

In the latest episode of the "Free Like Me Podcast," host Clark Fredericks introduces us to Danielle, a remarkable woman who has endured severe and extensive abuse throughout her childhood. Danielle's story is one of profound courage and resilience, as she openly discusses the deep scars left by her experiences with multiple abusers and the long-lasting effects on her mental health. Despite these challenges, she has embarked on a transformative journey towards healing, supported by therapy and the unconditional love of her husband and children. Danielle's narrative offers inspiration and hope to others, showcasing the incredible strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in powerful stories of survival and recovery.

Unsilenced: Gianna"s Confrontation of A Dark PastIn this emotionally charged episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark welcomes his youngest guest, Gianna, a 20-year-old survivor of childhood abuse. Gianna bravely recounts her harrowing experiences with her abusive father, including the trauma of being sexually abused, the coping mechanisms she developed, and her subsequent journey towards healing. She discusses how EMDR therapy helped unlock repressed memories, the struggles of hypersexuality, and how acceptance became a turning point in her recovery. This candid conversation offers hope and insight for anyone grappling with their own past traumas.