Rights and Remedies

This week on Rights and Remedies, I sit down with Chris Yadon, Chief Impact Officer of The Derek and Shelaine Maxfield Family Foundation and Managing Director of Saprea, an organization dedicated to liberating individuals and society from child sexual abuse and its lasting impacts.As a thought leader and strategist, Chris is committed to increasing awareness and educating the public on both prevention and healing. He’s a powerful advocate for change and firmly believes we can collectively create a better future for our children.Chris shares his personal journey into advocacy, the founding story behind Saprea, and how they’re helping survivors heal while preventing future abuse. We explore staggering stats (like how 1 in 8 children experience abuse by age 18), and dive into the long-term impacts like mental health struggles, substance use, incarceration that too often stem from untreated trauma.We also talk about:The power of community in trauma healingSaprea’s in-person and online programs (including retreats, webinars, and survivor-led support groups)How parents can protect kids with principle-based prevention (not just outdated “tactics”)Why survivor-led prevention could be the key to ending the cycleThis episode is both heartbreaking and hopeful—if you’re a survivor, parent, professional, or advocate, you’ll walk away with insight, tools, and renewed energy to create change.To access Saprea’s free resources or get involved, visit saprea.org.Connect with Chris on LinkedInFollow Saprea on TikTok

In this episode, I sit down with filmmaker Spencer King to expose the dark underbelly of the troubled teen industry through his latest feature, The Wilderness. We dive into the brutal realities of wilderness therapy programs and therapeutic boarding schools - where survival, not healing, often becomes the goal.Spencer shares what inspired the film, starring lead actor Hunter Doohan, built the story around true events, and the grueling conditions they faced while shooting in Southern Utah. But this conversation goes way beyond filmmaking - we talk about the thin line between rehabilitation and abuse, the power dynamics at play in these “treatment” programs, and the very real consequences for the young people trapped inside them.We also discuss what parents need to know before they consider sending their child to one of these camps, and highlight organizations like Unsilenced that are pushing for transparency and accountability in an industry with over 300 reported deaths to date.This episode is a must-listen for advocates, survivors, and anyone questioning the real cost of “tough love.”"The Wilderness" is out now, and available for digital release in December 2025. Connect with Spencer King on Instagram

This week on Rights and Remedies, Allison speaks with Texas-based family law attorney and former judge Michele Locke. With over 22 years in the courtroom, including time presiding over a domestic violence court, Michelle brings both fierce advocacy and lived insight into what really happens in high-conflict family law cases.They discuss:What it’s like running a dedicated domestic violence courtThe shift in family law post-COVID and rising case hostilityHow jury trials work in Texas divorce and custody casesThe personal cost of doing this work, and the burnout many lawyers silently carryGender dynamics in law, emotional labour, and finding boundaries in the courtroomHow courts can retraumatize survivors, and how to do betterFrom abuse allegations to parenting plans, and the emotional toll behind every legal battle, this conversation is essential listening for legal professionals, survivors, and anyone navigating the family court system.Connect with MicheleMichele’s WebsiteConnect on Instagram

Abby Honold reported her rape in 2014. But instead of receiving support, she was met with disbelief, threats of being charged for false reporting, and a justice system that failed her at every turn.She didn’t stop there.Abby went on to fight for systemic change, and helped pass The Abby Honold Act, a federal bill aimed at training law enforcement in trauma-informed response to survivors of sexual violence.In this episode, Abby shares:What happened when she reported, and how she finally got justiceWhy trauma-informed police response matters so deeply for victimsHow the bill was written, passed, and what it means for survivors across the U.S.What she wants every advocate, attorney, and survivor to knowThis conversation is a must-listen for anyone working in law, policy, victim services - or anyone who believes survivors deserve better.Connect with Abby:🔗 Facebook🔗 X🔗 Instagram🔗 Website (for media enquiries)

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I speak with Renee Bernhard, co-founder and executive director of Be The Source, a nonprofit transforming child welfare support across Colorado. Renee is a former foster parent with a deep commitment to supporting families and children experiencing child welfare. She co-founded Be The Source (formerly Foster Source) to improve foster parent retention and advocate for the needs of foster and kinship families. Renee also speaks nationally and internationally about vital caregiver supports and believes lived experience should be the biggest influence in policy and practice.We explore the emotional complexity of foster care, including what happened when Renee’s foster child’s biological mother broke protocol and handed her a bouquet of flowers on Mother’s Day. That single moment became the foundation for Renee’s vulnerable, relationship-first philosophy, and the core of her organization’s work.Be The Source now offers trauma-informed training, tangible support like car seats and rent assistance, equine therapy, and mental health care for foster and kinship families, including biological children of foster parents. And for the first time, they're expanding these same services to birth parents, creating a model of shared support where everyone shows up for the child.If you work in family law, child advocacy, or the broader legal ecosystem, this episode offers a powerful look at what’s possible when the system embraces we over us versus them.Learn more or donate: 🔗 bethesourceco.orgFollow Be The Source on Facebook, Instagram and X. (or the Spanish Facebook Page)

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I sit down with Sophie Stephenson, Director of Operations at the Madison Tech Clinic and a PhD candidate in computer sciences at UW-Madison. Her research focuses on understanding and combating modern forms of technology-facilitated abuse - work that is not only groundbreaking but urgently needed.The Madison Tech Clinic provides direct, trauma-informed services to survivors of tech-based abuse across Wisconsin. Sophie shares how her team helps survivors investigate concerns like phone hacking, spyware, and online harassment, and how they’re training tech experts to respond with both technical skill and care.We discuss how the clinic helps survivors investigate these concerns and build credible, court-ready evidence, something lawyers and advocates are increasingly being asked to support.Sophie also shares insight into their outreach with Indigenous communities and the tech dynamics driving the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis, plus the impact of AI-generated imagery in escalating abuse.This conversation is essential for legal professionals navigating modern abuse dynamics, and for anyone committed to supporting survivors in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.Learn more or refer clients to the clinic: 🔗 techclinic.cs.wisc.eduConnect with Sophie:🔗 LinkedInResources recommended by Sophie:Safety Net ProjectRefuge - What is Technology-Facilitated Abuse?Take It DownStop NCIIWithout My ConsentRight To BeEnd Tech-Enabled AbuseReferences: Naman Gupta, Sanchari Das, Kate Walsh, and Rahul Chatterjee. 2024. A Critical Analysis of the Prevalence of Technology-Facilitated Abuse in US College Students. In Extended Abstracts of the CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI EA ’24), May 11–16, 2024, Honolulu, HI, USA. ACM, New York, NY, USA, 12 pages. https://doi.org/10.1145/3613905. 

Content Warning: This episode discusses child abuse, neglect, and child welfare.What does it take to be a foster parent - and why are so many leaving the system?In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. John DeGarmo, founder of The Foster Care Institute, who has welcomed over 60 children into his home. From the heartbreak of child loss to the systemic issues plaguing foster care, including burnout, compassion fatigue, and lack of placements, Dr. DeGarmo offers a frank and compassionate look at what’s really happening inside the system.We also discuss why teens are the hardest group to place, how foster parents can better support each other, and what needs to change to keep children safe and stable.Visit Dr John DeGarmo's websiteConnect with him on LinkedIn and Facebook

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I speak with Liz Entin - entrepreneur, podcast host, and a secondary witness in both New York trials against Harvey Weinstein. Liz shares her experience testifying in one of the most high-profile sexual assault cases in recent history and offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on what it’s like to be part of the legal process as a witness.We explore the emotional, mental, and legal challenges of testifying, the unexpected empowerment she found in cross-examination, and the viral moment involving her Chihuahua and Weinstein.Liz also opens up about how this experience deepened her respect for the legal system and inspired her to consider pursuing law herself.If you're curious about courtroom dynamics, the role of secondary witnesses, or what it truly means to show up for justice, Liz’s account provides powerful insight into the weight and privilege of bearing witness.We cover:What it means to be a secondary witnessBehind the scenes of preparing for a criminal trialLiz’s viral moment that involved Harvey Weinstein and a ChihuahuaThe mindset shift that made cross-examination empoweringWhy she believes every witness holds real powerTune in for a deeply personal and uplifting look at what happens when someone says, “You don’t get to get away with this.”Find out about Liz:WTF Just Happened?! on YouTube, Instagram, and their websiteWhy Get Wasted: Instagram and website

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I speak with multi-disciplinary artist from Brooklyn, Choichun Leung about the deeply personal and often complex journey of healing from childhood sexual abuse. Choichun shares how suppressed memories surfaced later in life, especially after becoming a mother, and how art became both her outlet and her guide through recovery.We explore the origins of her Young Girl Project, work that began with unfinished sketches and evolved into a graphic-style exploration of trauma, memory, and emotional truth. Choichun opens up about the cyclical nature of healing, the power of saying everything out loud, and how her artwork has sparked connection and conversation with other survivors.If you're curious about how creativity can aid in trauma recovery, or want to understand more about the invisible impacts of childhood abuse, this episode offers an honest, moving perspective.Visit Choichun's website to find out more about her upcoming showsConnect with Choichun on Instagram Support the Young Girl Project: Instagram

In this episode of Rights & Remedies, I sit down with Elizabeth Payne and Emily Jones from the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE) to explore what legal advocacy really looks like for survivors of sexual harm.We dig into the criminal vs. civil legal systems and the massive disconnect between what survivors expect and what actually happens when they report. From how prosecutors aren’t your personal attorney to the overwhelming silence many face after filing a report, Elizabeth and Emily explain why their victim-centered legal work is so necessary and how they’re helping survivors reclaim control.We also go deep on what it means to be a “criminalized survivor,” the evolution of cybersexual abuse law, and why Illinois is at the forefront of protecting victims of digitally altered images and non-consensual dissemination. If you’ve ever wondered what justice actually looks like when tech is involved, you’ll want to hear this.Plus, we talk about sex trafficking survivors, expungement, and why the trauma-to-prison pipeline needs a major spotlight.If you're a survivor, an advocate, or just someone who wants to understand the legal systems survivors are up against, this conversation will challenge and empower you.🔗 Learn more or get help from CAASE: www.caaase.orgFind CAASE on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

What happens when a former federal prosecutor turns reformer, and uses data and AI to change the system from the inside out?This week on Rights and Remedies, host Alison Mahoney is joined by Allison Pierre, founder of Innovative Prosecution Consulting. After years working at the Brooklyn DA’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in D.C., Allison pivoted to fight for fairness in a different way: helping prosecutors and public defenders harness the power of data and AI to improve outcomes, reduce bias, and deliver justice more effectively.We cover:Why only a small fraction of U.S. prosecutor offices use data wellWhat AI tools like Axon and JusticeTech are already doing in courtHow bias can sneak into AI - and what guardrails are essentialThe tension between innovation, ethics, and security in lawAllison’s inspiring journey from “courtroom theatre” to systems changeThis is a powerful conversation at the intersection of law, technology, and justice reform.🔗 Learn more about Allison’s work at: https://reformagents.com📧 Contact her: [email protected] with Allison on LinkedIn

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I’m joined by Meg Applegate, CEO of UNSILENCED, a nonprofit dedicated to ending institutional child abuse in the so-called "troubled teen" industry.Meg shares her harrowing story of being abducted at age 15 and held in two residential facilities for over three years. She details her long journey of waking up to the abuse she experienced, and how that healing process ultimately led her to create UNSILENCED, one of the most active survivor-led organizations in this space.Together, we discuss:What the “troubled teen industry” really is - and how it hides abuseMeg’s experience of being brainwashed and the long path to “waking up”How UNSILENCED tracks abusive programs, staff, and private equity-backed operatorsThe legal strategies helping survivors seek justice - and the massive role litigation now playsHer new memoir Becoming Unsilenced and the emotional process of telling her storyThis is a powerful conversation about survivor-led advocacy, systemic change, and reclaiming your voice, even when others tried to silence it.UNSILENCED Website: unsilenced.orgBook: Becoming Unsilenced: Buy on AmazonFollow Meg on Instagram or Follow the Unsilencd Instagram PageConnect with Meg on LinkedIn

In this episode, I sit down with Dani Fankhauser - writer and intuitive coach - to explore how writing can be a transformative tool for healing.Together, we delve into:Dani's experience of writing and its impact on her healing journeyThe role of intuition and spirituality in the writing processHow writing can serve as a form of self-discovery and empowermentPractical advice for aspiring writers looking to tell their own storiesWhether you're a writer, a survivor, or someone seeking to understand the healing power of storytelling, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of writing and personal transformation.Connect with Dani:Website: danifankhauser.comInstagram: @danifankhauser

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shannon Meyer, the Executive Director of Response, a nonprofit doing critical work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking here in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley.Shannon’s path to this work is unlike any I’ve heard - she came from a background in environmental conservation and ended up leading a survivor services organization through a period of major transformation. We talked about what it’s really like to run a domestic violence shelter in a small mountain community, and the unique challenges (and opportunities) that come with that.In our conversation, we cover:How Shannon helped stabilize and grow Response after years of leadership turnoverWhy fewer survivors are seeking sexual assault exams - and why that’s deeply concerningWhat trauma-informed advocacy actually looks like on the groundThe power of law enforcement partnerships and early interventionThe shift away from secret shelters - and why public-facing models may actually be saferHow Response is reaching youth and shifting culture through educationAs a lawyer who works closely with survivors and serves on Response’s board, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this organization has. This episode is close to my heart - and I hope it gives you a deeper understanding of the work being done behind the scenes to support survivors in rural communities.Resources:Learn more or get help: responsehelps.orgFollow Response on Instagram24/7 crisis line: 970-925-SAFE (7233)

Trigger warning: This episode contains detailed discussions of domestic violence, reproductive coercion, and sexual assault. Please listen with care.In this raw and unflinching conversation, Lynn Stroud shares her powerful story of surviving reproductive coercion, intimate partner violence, and the long journey from silence to advocacy. What started as a seemingly small betrayal became a pivotal moment that exposed the deeper patterns of control, abuse, and manipulation she endured for years.Now a seasoned paralegal and outspoken advocate, Lynn breaks down:What reproductive coercion actually looks like (and why it’s still widely misunderstood)The subtle ways coercive control shows up in relationships, especially when you're youngWhy she kept silent for so long, and how telling her story publicly changed everythingThe legal gaps that fail victims of stealthing and coercion in the U.S.What finally made her say “enough”, and how she got outResources mentioned:National Domestic Violence Hotline: www.thehotline.orgFollow Lynn’s work or reach out on LinkedIn

TW: This episode contains discussion of emotional abuse, narcissism, and trauma. Please take care while listening.What does it really take to rebuild your life after narcissistic abuse and deep emotional trauma? In this powerful episode, holistic counselor, author, and podcast host Lorene Roberts opens up about her personal journey from feeling completely broken to finding emotional freedom, and now helping others do the same.We dive into:The signs of narcissistic abuse most people miss (especially when there’s no physical violence)How Lorene’s daughter gave her the wake-up call she needed to leave her marriageThe emotional collapse that followed… and the surprising moment that changed everythingWhy traditional talk therapy wasn’t enough - and what actually helped her healTools like root cause therapy, somatic release, and spiritual practices Lorene now uses with clients worldwideThe importance of rebuilding self-worth, piece by pieceThis is the episode for anyone who’s ever asked: “How do I start over when I feel too broken to even try?” . Lorene doesn’t sugarcoat the journey  but her story proves it’s possible to come out the other side stronger, wiser, and finally free.Mentioned in this episode:Lorene’s book Crazy Stupid Love on KindleThe Little Book of Divorce Survival – also available on AmazonFree course: 5 Steps to Emotional Freedom at loreneroberts.com

If you’ve just discovered an intimate photo or video of yourself online without your consent, take a breath - you are not alone, and there is a way forward.When you're hit with the shock of finding an intimate image shared without your consent, the instinct is clear: make it disappear, fast.But here’s the hard truth: deleting too quickly could erase the very evidence you need to take legal action, get the content removed, or hold the person responsible accountable.Whether you're thinking about taking civil action, reporting to the police, or simply wanting the abuse properly recorded, preserving evidence is essential - especially in revenge porn cases and cases of image-based sexual abuse.The internet moves fast - and when it comes to image-based abuse, revenge porn, or doxing, time is of the essence. Taking the right steps to preserve evidence quickly can make all the difference in building a strong case.In this episode, we walk through exactly what to do before you click delete, in a way that protects both your safety and your options. Whether or not you ever report, preserving evidence is power.You'll learn:What to screenshot (and how to make it legally useful)Simple tools and strategies to capture and store evidence safelyWhat kinds of details matter (hint: it's not just the photo itself)The biggest mistakes people make in those first few hours - and how to avoid themWhat to know if you’re considering civil or criminal actionIf you've been a victim of revenge porn, image-based sexual abuse, doxing, or any form of online harassment, or you know anyone that has, this is an essential listen to help you stay empowered and prepared.You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s talk about how to protect your peace and your proof.References:Page Vault

Warning: This episode contains discussion of sexual assault.When writer and activist Cheyenne Tyler Jacobs was sexually assaulted by someone she knew and trusted, she began a journey that was painful, confusing, and deeply transformational. She reported to police, went through a two-year legal process, and along the way, realized how few meaningful, survivor-centered resources were available. So she created her own.In this episode of Rights + Remedies, Cheyenne shares the story behind her powerful book, We Are the Evidence - a resource guide for survivors filled with real-world insight, legal guidance, and healing tools contributed by detectives, therapists, attorneys, and survivors themselves.We explore: 🔹 What it’s like to report to police and enter a system not built to support survivors 🔹 The emotional conflict of knowing your assailant and still trying to make sense of the trauma 🔹 The moment she turned to the library for help, and found a book that told her to “dress modestly” 🔹 The importance of control in the healing process and why it’s so often stripped away 🔹 What We Are the Evidence includes - from legal definitions and myth-busting to survivor stories and building your own healing support team 🔹 Why healing doesn’t look the same for everyone, and how horses, dancing, and solo travel helped Cheyenne rebuild confidence and reclaim powerThis conversation is a raw, empowering reminder that healing is not one-size-fits-all - and survivors deserve support that meets them where they are.Connect with Cheyenne:📷 Follow Cheyenne on Instagram: @WeAreTheEvidence📘 Find her on LinkedIn: Cheyenne Wilson📱 Connect with her on BlueSky: @wearetheevidence.bsky.social📖 Buy Her Book: via BookShop or Amazon🖥️ Visit Her Website: WeAreTheEvidence.com

Warning: This episode contains discussion of sexual assault, including the sexual abuse of minors.In this powerful episode of Rights + Remedies, I'm joined by Justin Boardman, retired detective and nationally recognised advocate for trauma-informed policing. Justin Boardman served as a detective in the Special Victims Unit for 15 years. Today, he’s a national speaker, consultant, and advocate for trauma-informed practices in gender-based violence cases. He co-authored a trauma-informed interview protocol that’s been proven to increase prosecutions, and now helps communities and justice professionals shift culture, improve investigations, and centre survivor experiences.In today's episode, Justin opens up about the hard truths of his early days in law enforcement, where he admits to not believing survivors and closing cases based on inconsistencies in their stories.But his perspective changed. Now, he's dedicated his life to changing the systems that failed survivors for too long.And we cover: 🔹 Why trauma can cause survivors to forget, pause, or leave gaps—and why this shouldn’t discredit their stories 🔹 The need for trauma-informed training in police departments, and why it’s still not mandatory 🔹 Justin’s push to make strangulation a felony, not a misdemeanor 🔹 How systems unintentionally re-victimize survivors, and how to stop it 🔹 What victim-centric, suspect-focused investigations should look like 🔹 The work he’s now doing to consult with agencies, train officers, review cases, and support survivor-led justiceWith nearly 300 forensic child victim interviews and 140 adult sexual assault interviews under his belt, Justin knows firsthand the power of believing survivors - and the danger of not.Connect with Justin Boardman:📱 For more on Justin's training and consultancy services, vist his WebsiteREFERENCES:- Abby Honold Act

***TRIGGER WARNING: Child Abuse and Child Neglect***The foster care system is complex, and for many families, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Rights + Remedies, Jill Roth-Gutman, a Child Welfare Law Specialist and experienced attorney, breaks down the key aspects of child welfare law and foster care.Jill shares:🔹 What actually happens in court during a foster care case🔹 The steps to becoming a licensed foster home🔹 The adoption process, and how foster children move toward permanency🔹 Her work as a Guardian ad Litem in contested custody cases🔹 How her book, Simplify Your Life, helps families organize important legal and personal documents for emergenciesWith over 14 years of experience representing children in the system, Jill provides practical insights for foster parents, legal guardians, and anyone looking to understand the legal side of child welfare.Connect with Jill Roth-Gutman:📷 Follow Jill on Instagram: Roth-Gutman Law📘 Find her on Facebook: Roth-Gutman Law📱 For more on Jill's Guardian ad Litem services, visit her Website: Roth-Gutman Law💼 Connect with Jill on LinkedIn: Jill Roth-Gutman📘 Simplify Your Life with Jill's book: Simplify Your Life 

***TRIGGER WARNING: Child Abuse and Child Neglect***Teenagers in foster care face an uphill battle - not just in finding placements but in overcoming the trauma they’ve endured. In this episode of Rights + Remedies, I sit down with Tiffani Dhooge, a relentless advocate for at-risk youth and CEO of Children’s Harbor, to discuss the realities of foster care and the power of community in healing trauma.Tiffani shares:🔹 How her career started in the broom closet of a foster care agency and led to national recognition🔹 Why teenagers are the hardest to place — and what that means for their future🔹 The heartbreaking reality of sibling separation in the system🔹 How Children’s Harbor provides not just a home but a family for foster teens🔹 The critical role of therapy, education, and mentorship in helping them rebuild their livesWith over 25 years of experience, Tiffani’s unwavering commitment to foster youth is changing lives - one heartbeat at a time.Connect with Tiffani Dhooge:📷 Follow Children's Harbor on Instagram: @childrensharborinc📘 Find them on Facebook: Childrens Harbor Inc📱 Vist the Website: Children's Harbor💼 Connect with Tiffani on LinkedIn: Tiffani Dhooge

***TRIGGER WARNING: Cyber Sexual Abuse and Sexual Abuse***In today's episode, I'm joined by Lindsay Lieberman, attorney and founder of Lindsay Lieberman, LLC, a legal and consulting firm dedicated to advocating for victims of cyber abuse. From sextortion to deep fakes, Lindsay works to support survivors and educate parents, schools, and law enforcement on the dangers of digital harm.We discuss:How cyber abuse impacts victims of sexual and domestic violenceWhy parents often underestimate online risks — and what they need to knowThe rise of AI-generated fake images and how they threaten children’s safetyThe real dangers of data breaches and what they mean for all of usWhy prevention and education are key to reducing online exploitationThe malicious intent behind cyber abuse — and how some younger users see it as “harmless”With technology evolving rapidly, it’s more important than ever to educate and protect vulnerable communities. This conversation highlights the urgent need for awareness, legal action, and digital safety conversations at home and in schools.Connect with Lindsay Lieberman:📷 Follow her on Instagram: @lindsayliebermanesq📘 Find her on Facebook: Lindsay Lieberman, Esq.📱 Follow her on TikTok: @lindsayliebermanesq💼 Connect wtih her on LinkedIn: Lindsay Lieberman

In this episode, I'll shed light on the growing intersection of domestic violence and cyber abuse. While domestic violence is often thought of as physical or emotional harm, digital abuse is an increasing tool used by perpetrators to assert control, seek revenge, and punish victims.Today, I'll be talking about:The different types of domestic violence and their digital counterpartsThe dangers of deep fakes, doxing, revenge porn, sextortion, and image-based sexual abuseShocking statistics: 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience domestic violence in the U.S.The devastating impact of digital abuse - including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, financial loss, and career consequencesHow victims can take action, report these crimes, and seek helpIf you or someone you know is experiencing digital abuse, help is available. Here are some resources:Cyber Civil Rights InitiativeStopNCII – Helps prevent non-consensual intimate images from being sharedTake It Down – A resource for removing explicit images onlineReferences:Power and Control Wheel

In this episode, I'm joined by somatic trauma-informed coach Darla Radilla to discuss the journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and reclaiming your power. Darla shares her personal experiences of surviving an abusive childhood and multiple toxic relationships, and how she turned her pain into a mission to help others.We Explore:The signs of narcissistic abuse, including the love-bomb, devalue, discard cycle.How our bodies often know when something isn’t right - and why it’s crucial to trust your gut.The impact of psychological, financial, and social isolation caused by narcissistic abuse.The connection between childhood experiences and relational trauma.The role of somatic healing in working through past trauma and regaining personal power.Darla’s story is one of resilience, hope, and empowerment. Whether you’ve experienced narcissistic abuse or want to learn more about healing from trauma, this episode is packed with insights to help you take the next step on your healing journey.Follow Darla on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.Check out her website, join the Meet Up group, or listen to her podcast.Website: https://www.highvaluewoman.infoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550835718631Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highvaluewoman7/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/highvaluewoman7/Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/narcissistic-abuse-women-warriors/Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390148

Today, I'm sitting down with Kahila Hedayatzadeh, founder of the Thriving Woman Institute, to explore the intersection of therapy and coaching for trauma-focused healing. As a seasoned psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in trauma healing and relational therapy, Kahila shares her unique approach to helping adults heal relational wounds, face their trauma, and build the skills to navigate life with resilience.What You’ll Learn:The difference between "big trauma" and "little trauma" and how relational wounds from childhood, adolescence, or adulthood shape us.How therapy and coaching together can create sustainable healing without relying on therapy for a lifetime.Why societal and cultural norms lead women to internalize emotions and how generational patterns can be broken.The importance of men sharing their experiences of abuse and the ripple effect it creates in fostering vulnerability and healing.Why This Episode Matters:Whether you’ve experienced overt trauma or subtle relational wounds, this episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible. Kahila’s approach, inspired by Gabor Maté’s work, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness, breaking generational patterns, and building the tools to move forward. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how trauma affects us all and how we can take steps toward taking responsibility for our own healing.Follow Kahila on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.For more on the Thriving Woman Insitute, visit her website.

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I sit down with Dr. Debbie Silber, the founder of the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute. Dr. Silber shares her journey of transforming personal betrayal into groundbreaking research, and she discusses how she built a supportive community that helps individuals and couples heal from betrayal. Her work focuses on moving beyond the victim narrative and fostering intentional growth and transformation.Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions about abusive relationships and betrayal. If this topic is sensitive for you, please take care while listening or skip this episode.Here’s What We Discuss:The unique trauma of betrayalFive stages of healing from betrayalPost-Betrayal Syndrome and its symptomsThe importance of the right kind of support in healingWhy This Episode Matters:Betrayal is a deeply personal and unique trauma that can leave individuals feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unable to move forward. This episode highlights the predictable stages of healing and how the right tools, resources, and community can help victims reclaim their power and rebuild their lives.Key Takeaways:Betrayal is a unique trauma requiring specialized healing approaches.Healing from betrayal involves moving through five distinct stages.Support groups and therapy must be designed to foster growth rather than reinforce the pain.Intentional healing is possible, and it transforms your life and relationships.If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need this message. Together, we can help create a path to healing and transformation.Connect with Dr. Debbie Silber:Visit: The PBT InstituteExplore Dr. Silber’s Work:TEDx: “Do You Have Post Betrayal Syndrome?”: Watch on YouTubeTEDx: Stop Sabotaging Yourself: Watch on YouTubeFrom Betrayal to Breakthrough Podcast: Listen hereFollow Dr. Silber on Social Media:TikTok: @debisilberFacebook: InspireEmpowerTransformTwitter: @DebiSilberLinkedIn: Debi SilberInstagram: @debisilberYouTube: Debi SilberGet Support:Feeling stuck in betrayal? Take the Post Betrayal Syndrome Quiz to assess where you are in your healing journey and access tools for transformation. https://thepbtinstitute.com/Get Legal Help:ALM Law is offering free consultations to survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Take the first step to understand your options and find a path forward.Call: 970-315-5152Visit: almlawllc.comDisclaimer:

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, Allison Mahoney gives us a closer look at the U.S. foster care system. With nearly 400,000 children currently in foster care, Allison walks through the system’s structure, from federal to local levels, and explains how children enter foster care and what happens while they’re in the system.Trigger WarningThis episode discuss sensitive topics related to child abuse and neglect. Please take care while listening if these topics are difficult for you.Here’s What We Discuss:How the Foster Care System is Structured – A breakdown of the federal, state, and local roles.How Children Enter Foster Care – The various reasons kids are placed into foster care.The Goal of Permanency – Why reunification is the first priority, and what happens when that’s not possible.Types of Foster Care Placements – From kinship care to residential facilities, and everything in between.The Services Children and Families Need – From mental health support to educational services, and why they’re crucial.Why This Episode Matters:The foster care system is a complicated, often misunderstood part of our society. In this episode, Allison brings some clarity to how it works, the challenges kids face, and why it’s so important that we improve the system to meet the needs of vulnerable children and families. If you want to understand what’s happening with children in foster care, and how the system is—and isn’t—working for them, this episode is a must-listen.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need to hear it. By spreading awareness, we can all do our part to make the foster care system a little better, one conversation at a time.Get Legal Help:If you or someone you know was harmed while in foster care, we are here to help. We are offering free 15-minute consultations.Call: 970-315-5152Visit: almlawllc.comDisclaimer:The views and opinions shared in this episode belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organizations. These conversations aim to inform and inspire, but they are not a substitute for professional legal or child welfare advice. If you need specific guidance, please consult a professional in your area.

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, Allison Mahoney talks with Linee Walker and Lillie Floyd, the passionate founders of Daniel's Voice. The organization was created in memory of Linee’s son, Daniel, whose life was tragically cut short by domestic violence. Together, Linee and Lillie are working to ensure that male victims and their families find the support and understanding they need.Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions regarding domestic violence. If this topic is sensitive for you, please take care while listening or skip this episode.Here’s What We Discuss:Daniel’s StoryThe struggles of male victims of DVThe need to find new approaches to help male survivors of DVWhy This Episode Matters:Male victims of domestic violence are often overlooked, and their voices go unheard. This episode shines a spotlight on their experiences and shows how advocacy, understanding, and safe spaces can create real change.Key Takeaways:Sharing your story can lead to healing for yourself and others.Advocacy is crucial to challenging societal norms and supporting victims.Every victim, regardless of gender, deserves compassion and help.If this episode moved you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. Let’s work together to amplify these voices and create a ripple effect of change.Connect with Daniels Voice:Email : [email protected] Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557539026934&mibextid=JRoKGiPhone: 334-509-0139Get Legal Help:Have you or someone you know experienced domestic violence? ALM Law is offering free consultations to survivors of domestic violence. Take the first step to understand your options and find a path forward.Call: 970-315-5152Visit: almlawllc.comDisclaimer:The views and opinions shared in this episode belong to the participants and do not necessarily represent affiliated organizations. These discussions aim to inform and inspire but are not a substitute for professional advice. For specific guidance, consult a professional in your area.Tune in next time on Rights and Remedies as we continue exploring justice, advocacy, and healing.

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I sit down with Mari Frankel, a guardian ad litem in Florida and the filmmaker behind Foster Shock. Frankel shares her eye-opening journey into the foster care system after witnessing a devastating news story about two abused foster children. Her experiences advocating for vulnerable youth inspired her to create a documentary that reveals the hidden challenges and systemic failures within the privatized foster care system. Trigger Warning: [This episode includes discussions about child abuse, neglect, and systemic failures within the foster care system, which may be upsetting or triggering for some listeners. Please listen with care, and if you need to pause or skip this episode, prioritize your mental health and well-being.] Key Topics Discussed: Mari Frankel’s path to becoming a guardian ad litem and her deep commitment to advocating for foster children. The creation of Foster Shock and the stories that motivated its production. The impact of privatization on the foster care system highlights a troubling lack of accountability in private placements. Harrowing examples of abuse in foster homes and group homes, and the system’s failures to properly address these incidents. Frankel’s call for reforms, including:  Capping executive salaries at private foster care companies. Improving compensation and support for case managers. Shifting focus from group homes to keeping families intact with robust support services. Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in child welfare, systemic reform, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Mari Frankel’s firsthand insights and solutions offer hope and a path forward to address the flaws within the foster care system. Watch Foster Shock here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXCByofJ9D0 Get Legal Help:  ALM Law is offering free consultations to help you. Schedule your 15-minute consultation today to learn more. Call: 970 - 315 – 5152 Check our website at almlawllc.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the participants and do not represent the official stance of any affiliated organizations or partners. Discussions are dynamic and may cover a wide range of topics, including spontaneous or evolving ideas. This content is provided for general information and inspiration only and should not be taken as specific advice. For tailored advice, please consult a relevant professional.   

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, we examine the deeply troubling findings of a recent U.S. Senate Committee report on foster care residential treatment facilities: “Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities.”These congregate care facilities are supposed to provide care and support for some of our most vulnerable youth. Instead, facilities owned by four companies—Universal Health Services (“UHS”), Acadia Healthcare, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, and Vivant Behavioral Healthcare (or Sequel Youth and Family Services)—prioritize profit over the safety and wellbeing of children.  We discuss the abuses and maltreatment of children occurring at these facilities as well as the report’s recommendations to improve conditions are congregate care facilities and ensure children are safe. Note! [Please be advised that this episode discusses child abuse, institutional abuse, and sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some listeners. If you need to take a break or skip this episode, please do so and prioritize your well-being.] What You’ll Learn: Insight #1:  How four companies that operate residential treatment facilities—UHS, Acadia, Devereux, and Vivant (or Sequel)—are prioritizing profit over the wellbeing and safety of children. Insight #2:  What reforms are needed to protect the most vulnerable young people in foster care. Key Takeaways: 1. Residential treatment facilities owned by UHS, Acadia, Devereux, and Vivant (or Sequel) are dangerous placements for children in foster care, because these four companies prioritize profit over the wellbeing of children.  2. Young people placed in foster care residential facilities experience unsafe and unsanitary conditions as well as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.  Resources/Links: Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers Are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities  The October 2024 APSAC Advisor   Get Legal Help:  Have you been harmed in a foster care residential facility? If so, ALM Law is offering a free consultation to help you understand your options. Schedule your 15-minute consultation today to learn more. Call: 970 - 315 – 5152 Check our website at almlawllc.com  

In this episode, Allison shares the story of her paternal grandmother, Helen Mahoney, and her grandmother’s experience in the child welfare system in the United States in the early 1920’s. As a young child, Helen was placed in St. Joseph's Home for the Friendless, an orphanage in Chicago, following the death of her mother. Allison explores the impact of Helen's upbringing on their family and draws parallels between her grandmother's experience and the ongoing challenges faced by children in today's foster care system. Through this personal narrative, Allison emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the invisible struggles of youth impacted by the child welfare system.  Note! [Please be advised that this episode discusses child abuse, institutional abuse, and sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some listeners. If you need to take a break or skip this episode, please do so and prioritize your well-being.]What You’ll Learn: Insight #1:  What a child’s experience in congregate care looked like in the early 1920’s and how it shaped future generations.  Insight #2:  A brief history of foster care in the United States and persisting issues that continue affect children in foster care today.  Key Takeaways:  The parallels between child welfare practices in the early 20th century and children’s experiences in congregate care today, including sibling separation.  The importance of storytelling and shining a light on children’s experiences in child welfare systems.   Get Legal Help: Are you a young person who was treated unjustly in foster care? Do you know a child who was mistreated in foster care? ALM Law is offering free consultations on child welfare civil rights matters. Schedule your 15-minute consultation today to gain clarity and understand your options. Call: 970 - 315 – 5152 Check our website at almlawllc.com  

Rights and Remedies is your go-to podcast for survivors, advocates, and those wanting to explore the legal and human dimensions of sexual abuse, cyber abuse, domestic violence, and child welfare. Each episode unpacks the complexities of these issues, examines the civil rights challenges affecting vulnerable populations, and highlights the innovative approaches to making a difference. Tune in for expert insights, powerful stories, and a roadmap to healing and justice.