Smart Talks: Recent Episodes
Elizabeth Smart Foundation
Every 73 seconds someone in the United States is sexually assaulted. Every 9 minutes that person is a child. Each week, join kidnapping survivor Elizabeth Smart as she speaks with therapists, survivors, and experts as they share stories of empowerment, recovery, and hope. If you or someone you know has ever experienced the horrors of sexual assault, then this podcast is for you!
In this insightful conversation, Dr. Gabor Maté delves into the deep and lasting impact of trauma, explaining that trauma is not defined by what happens to us, but by the inner wounds those experiences leave behind. He unpacks the complexities of healing, the significance of memory, and the essential role of personal responsibility in recovery. Dr. Maté introduces compassionate inquiry—a practice of exploring one’s pain with openness rather than judgment—as a powerful pathway to healing. He encourages individuals to release shame, approach their experiences with curiosity, and recognize that it is never too late to heal. Ultimately, the discussion reveals that reconnection with one’s authentic self lies at the heart of true recovery. Trust us when we say–this is an episode you will not want to miss!
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Thank you for joining us for Season 3 of Smart Talks! In this episode, Elizabeth discusses her main takeaways from the season and leaves us with some final thoughts.
Show notes:-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-19.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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In a continuation of last week's episode, Elizabeth is joined by the rest of the multidisciplinary team from Heroes Landing Children's Justice Center. In this episode, she talks with two victim advocates about their roles and common misconceptions the public has about victim advocacy. Elizabeth also talks with the team's forensic interviewer about the process of interviewing a child who has experienced abuse.
Show notes:-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-18.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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Children's justice centers (CJCs) are child-friendly facilities where child victims of abuse are interviewed and medically assessed by professionals specifically trained in the forensic investigation of abuse. Today, we are joined by two women from Heroes Landing Children's Justice Center, a CJC that recently opened in Muskingum County, Ohio. Evonne Saunders is the Executive Director of Heroes Landing, and Amanda McClelland is the SANE nurse. They both share more information on CJCs as well as what they want parents and survivors of abuse to know.
Join us next week to hear from more of the Heroes Landing multidisciplinary team.
Show notes:-View the full transcript and related links atelizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-17.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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Julie Whitehead is a survivor of child sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and human sex trafficking. Her story of abuse spans 31 years and was discussed in Smart Talks season 1, episode 14. Today, Julie joins Elizabeth to talk about the steps she's taken in her healing journey and what the future holds for her. She mentions certain tools she's learned to overcome triggers, her developing book, and her thoughts on her life purpose.
Show notes:-View the full transcript and related links atelizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-16.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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RISE (Restore Individual Self-Empowerment) Court is a court-sponsored program in the Akron, Ohio Municipal Court and is led by Judge Ron Cable. It was created to help adult female victims of human trafficking, prostitution, and sexual exploitation. Judge Cable began RISE to identify and help human trafficking victims and lead them as they create a new, positive path for themselves.
Through the Akron Municipal Court's partnerships with outside agencies, RISE provides services such as trauma therapy, drug rehabilitation, housing, vocational sessions and other community support. One partner organization, the Hope Meadows Foundation, provides survivors with equine therapy.
Judge Cable joins Anne Kichurchak and Michelle Togliatti from the Hope Meadows Foundation in this episode to talk about how local government and local organizations can work together to provide help and healing for survivors.
Show notes:-View the full transcript and related links atelizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-15.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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When they were children, Stephanie and her sisters suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a brother-in-law. After the abuse was brought to light, more focus and worry went toward helping the abuser recover than toward helping his victims heal. Stephanie's abuser is still married to her sister, and in this episode she discusses her journey through this difficult situation.
Stephanie is a mother to four and grandmother to two, and her greatest joy is spending time with her family. She loves to make and eat delicious food and has carried that passion into her small business, The Home Lab, where she teaches cooking and sewing classes to kids, teens and adults.
Show notes:
-Content warning: Today’s episode includes mentions of familial sexual abuse.
-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-14.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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The National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) is the leading organization exposing the connections between all forms of sexual exploitation, including sex trafficking, prostitution, pornography, and child sexual abuse.
Dawn Hawkins is the CEO of NCOSE. She has centered the need to address buyer demand for commercial sex, called out corporate entities facilitating exploitation through the annual Dirty Dozen List, fostered an international movement, and constantly advocates for survivors. Her work has sparked change at Google, Hilton Worldwide, Comcast, Walmart, the Department of Defense, Instagram, TikTok, and other influential firms.
Elizabeth and Dawn discuss the current state of the fight against sexual violence, including hopeful progress.
Show notes:
-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-13.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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India Oxenberg is a survivor of the NXIVM cult who now uses her experiences to help other survivors of cults and high control groups. She spent 7 years indoctrinated in the cult, and for many of those years suffered sexual abuse, starvation, torture, and extreme brainwashing tactics.
In this episode, Elizabeth and India discuss her experience, including her extensive healing journey and how India learned to trust her mind again. Elizabeth and India also draw many parallels between what India experienced and what so many survivors of all types of abuse experience, noting that while the each story is different, tactics of abuse are often the same.
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Erika R. George is the Samuel D. Thurman Professor of Law at the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law, where she teaches constitutional law, international human rights law, international environmental law, and seminars on corporate citizenship and sustainability. Her current research explores the responsibilities of multinational corporations to respect international human rights and efforts to hold corporations accountable for alleged rights violations.
Erika has testified before international human rights treaty bodies, foreign governments, and has briefed the international media on international human rights law, racial discrimination, and gender violence. She is a frequent speaker on human rights, sustainability, diversity, gender equality, and corporate social responsibility.
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Usually, conversations about believing survivors of sexual violence evoke a very valid question: what about false reports? In this episode, Elizabeth talks about the danger of false reports, while also explaining why statistics show that it is always the better option to believe.
Show notes:
-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-10.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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Rebecca Bailey, PhD is a leading family psychologist and equestrian who has become a world-renowned professional teacher, speaker, author, and entrepreneur. Dr. Bailey is the founder of Transitioning Families, a group of independently licensed mental health practitioners dedicated to Bailey’s innovative ideas for helping families through crisis and difficult change. She is best known for her work with survivors of non-familial abduction. She is the creator of the Polyvagal Equine institute, an organization dedicated to Equine assisted psychotherapy and education with a focus on applying Dr. Stephan Porges’s research on the autonomic nervous system to a variety of populations. She believes that understanding the interaction between the nervous system and our thoughts and actions is key to compassionately responding and addressing the complexities of todays societal demands.
She and Elizabeth discuss appeasement as a response to fear and trauma and what understanding this reaction can teach survivors about their own strength.
Show notes:
-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-07.
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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Cindy experienced abuse and harassment at the hands of one of her teachers. Starting in middle school and spanning over her teen years and into young adulthood, the abuse Cindy survived and endured became a source of misery, shame, and guilt in her life. Even after tirelessly distancing herself from her abuser, she still couldn't seem to find the freedom she longed for until the moment came when she spoke her truth.
Cindy shares her story, the tactics her abuser used, and how she found hope and healing.
Show notes:
-Content warning: Today’s episode includes mentions of rape, stalking, and pedophilia.
-View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-08
-Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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Tiffany Roe is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CEO, entrepreneur, award-winning psychology teacher, and speaker. She's on a mission to inform the world that Therapy Is Cool™️. Tiffany is revolutionizing modern mental health as the "OG IG Therapist" on Instagram, offering courses on TiffanyRoe.com, and spreading education and fundamental psychological tools on her podcast, Therapy Thoughts.
Show Notes:View the full transcript and related links at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-07
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
All views, information, or opinions expressed in the Smart Talks podcast are solely those of the individual participant. They do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, the Malouf Foundation, or their affiliates. The information and opinions shared in Smart Talks do not constitute, and should not be construed as, mental health advice. Smart Talks content is presented for informational purposes only; because each person and situation is unique, please consult a mental health professional for any questions.
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Abby Palmer Cox became Utah’s first lady when her husband Spencer J. Cox was sworn in as governor on January 4, 2021. As Utah’s first lady, Abby hopes to inspire Utahns to break down the barriers that separate people from treating one another as equals. She is an outspoken advocate for “getting proximate,” connecting through our differences, and combating the empathy crisis our country is facing.
Abby’s initiative is called “Show Up”, and she uses her platform to convene, contribute to, and champion projects related to emotional self-reliance, service, foster care and sporting opportunities for children who live with intellectual disabilities.
In this episode, Abby talks about the Show Up initiative and how we can rally together to support some of the most vulnerable members of our population.
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Honorable Tanya Gould is an activist fighting against human trafficking and striving to impact legislative policy and raise public awareness. She currently holds her second term and is co-chair on the U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking.
This year, Tanya received the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking in Persons. She has served as a consultant to various anti-human trafficking organizations, as well as the Office for Victims of Crime, the Blue Campaign, and Trafficking in Person’s office. She also serves on boards and organizations such as Polaris, Beloved Haven, and Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum Taskforce on Human Trafficking.
In this episode, Tanya shares her story of being trafficked, her healing journey, and her message for survivors.
Show Notes:
Follow Tanya on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-05
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Elizabeth receives countless questions from parents about how to safely raise their children in the digital age, so we brought in someone poised to answer and provide help for these questions. Clay Olsen serves as the CEO and Founder of Impact Suite, which owns and operates a suite of award-winning self-care apps. Early on in his career, Clay co-founded and lead the creation of Fight the New Drug — a youth movement dedicated to raising awareness on the harmful effects of pornography and other forms of sexual exploitation through science, facts, and personal accounts. His newest passion project is leading the creation of Raise — a free parenting resource dedicated to helping parents navigate the challenges of the current digital landscape with their children while helping them develop healthy relationships with technology.
Show notes:
Download the Raise app in the Apple Store and Google Play.
Follow Raise Parenting on Instagram,Facebook, andTikTok.
Learn more about Raise.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-04
Support the show
In 2002, at 15 years old, Kara Robinson Chamberlain was kidnapped by and escaped from what she would later find out to be a serial killer. Kara’s will to survive led to her escaping her captor and gathering information to identify her captor as the man responsible for at least three murders years earlier in Virginia. Following her experience, Kara formed relationships with law enforcement and went on to work with Richland County Sherif’s Department as a school resource officer, investigator, and victim’s advocate until the birth of her first child in 2013. Kara now now uses her experiences to speak to groups with the mission of spreading awareness, education and inspiration. In this episode, Kara shares her story and her message to survivors.
Show notes:
Follow Kara on InstagramandTikTok.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-03
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Sam and Kacie Malouf are the co-founders and owners of Malouf Companies, as well as the founders of the Malouf Foundation. They discuss what led them to create the Malouf Foundation, as well as the rewards and difficulties that come from actively working in the fight against sexual violence.
Show notes:
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with support specialists at the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline.
Learn more about the Malouf Foundation.
Read the full transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-3-02
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Welcome to Season 3 of Smart Talks! To start this season off, Elizabeth gives updates since the last episode of Season 2 aired and explains some exciting big changes for the Elizabeth Smart Foundation.
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Join Elizabeth as she wraps up Season Two of Smart Talks with the Elizabeth Smart Foundation. In this final episode, Elizabeth shares her thoughts on the human spirit and its ability to overcome anything and her belief that everyone has a story worth sharing. She thanks the incredible guests who have come on Smart Talks over the past few months and the audience members who have dedicated their time to learning and growing alongside her.
Show notes:
Follow Elizabeth on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Elizabeth on YouTube for more answers to your questions.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more about the Smart Defense program.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Chat with the Human Trafficking Hotline.
Chat with the Domestic Violence Hotline.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Elizabeth answers listeners' questions about difficulties with healing and aspects of her personal story. The questions this episode were:
- "What advice do you have for those who still struggle many years later?" (01:15)
- "Is it hard having people look at you as someone who has triumphed over past traumas, does it pressure you to act happier than you feel?" (05:38)
- "How can parents and siblings best support a survivor? How can we heal from our own pain from what happened to someone we love?" (08:44)
- "What's one thing you wish people knew about you?" (17:32)
Show notes:
Follow Elizabeth on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Elizabeth on YouTube for more answers to your questions.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more about the Smart Defense program.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Chat with the Human Trafficking Hotline.
Chat with the Domestic Violence Hotline.
Find a children’s advocacy center near you here.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
The Malouf Foundation exists to confront child sexual exploitation, specifically sex trafficking and online abuse, and is supported in its efforts by Malouf Companies. In this episode, the Director of Operations, Aniko Mahan, explains the foundation's different programs and initiatives. Aniko and Elizabeth focus specifically on Raise, a new app about to launch that help parents teach their children to use social media safely, and Malouf's OnWatch training, a free, one-hour training that helps bystanders recognize human trafficking.
Show notes:
Take the OnWatch training here.
Access the Raise app here. Coming soonLearn more about the Malouf Foundation’s programs here.
Follow the Malouf Foundation on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Join the Victory Club to get access to Smart Defense+, the full Smart Defense curriculum available online.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Jeff Gottfurcht and Derek Jackson founded Cyber Dive, a company whose mission is to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight into their child’s online experiences. In this episode, they share how parents can introduce their children to social media in a healthy way. They also share about their new smartphone for kids.
Show notes:
Learn more about Cyber Dive here.
Follow Cyber Dive on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more about Jeff and Derek here.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Join the Victory Club to get first access to Smart Defense+, the full Smart Defense curriculum available online.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
When Barbi was 6 years old, she began experiencing child sexual abuse at the hands of an extended family member. She first disclosed her abuse to a trusted high school teacher, who in turn helped her tell her parents. Barbi credits a large portion of her healing journey to the belief and support of those around her. Now, she shares her story to help other survivors find the strength to come forward as well.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Dr. Sandra Morgan, an educator and nurse, is recognized globally for her expertise in combatting human trafficking and working to end violence against women and children. She has been a tireless advocate for victims of exploitation, slavery, and trafficking across the world including South America, Russia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Her Ending Human Trafficking podcast has listeners in 133 countries and is now housed in the Library of Congress as a resource to practitioners and the public. Dr. Morgan recently served as Co-chair of the Public-Private Partnership Advisory Council to End Human Trafficking by presidential appointment.
This episode of Smart Talks was originally released as an episode on Dr. Morgan's podcast, Ending Human Trafficking. We're grateful to Dr. Morgan for allowing us to share this conversation with our audience.
Show notes:
Listen to the Ending Human Trafficking podcast.
View this episode's original release.
Learn more about the Global Center for Women and Justice, of which Dr. Morgan is director.
Follow the Global Center for Women and Justice on Facebook.
Follow Elizabeth Smart on Instagram and Facebook.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Have you ever wondered how far you're allowed to go to protect yourself? In this episode, Skye Lazaro, a defense attorney, explains Stand Your Ground laws and how they vary in each state. She and Elizabeth also discuss the reason that defense attorneys aren't in opposition to the best interests of the victim of a crime. To learn more about your state's specific Stand Your Ground laws, head to the show notes for a chart laying out Skye's extensive research.
Show notes:
View Skye’s chart of Stand Your Ground laws across states here.
View Skye Lazaro’s professional information at rqn.com/attorney/skye-lazaro
Follow Skye Lazaro on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Join the Victory Club to get first access to Smart Defense+, the full Smart Defense curriculum available online.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Bridle Up Hope is a charity with themission to inspire hope, confidence, and resilience in young women through equestrian training and is featured in Elizabeth's second book, Where There's Hope. In this episode, Program Director Nicole Holgreen explains the various programs Bridle Up Hope carries out as well as the benefit of horses and animals in healing from trauma.
Show notes:
Learn more about Bridle Up Hope at bridleuphope.org.
Follow Bridle Up Hope on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Join the Victory Club, our community of monthly donors who support the work of the foundation.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-16.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Elizabeth answers listeners' questions about recovery and dealing with the personal, difficult questions that it often brings up. The questions this episode were:
- I'm a new mom with PTSD. How do you cope with mom and wife duties on bad days? (02:08)
- How did you know that you were ready to talk openly about what happened? (06:48)
- How do I stop feeling weak for freezing and disassociating instead of fighting back? (10:14)
- How do I stop comparing my trauma? I feel like it wasn't bad enough to have PTSD. (13:06)
- What's your advice for someone who feels stuck in recovery and/or healing? (16:20)
- Did you ever feel like no one could understand your experience? Like you were alone in what happened to you? (18:18)
- How do you cope with hearing so many stories about assault? (21:32)
- How can I start working in advocacy? (26:03)
- What is the best way to support someone working through trauma? (28:03)
Show notes:
Follow Elizabeth on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Elizabeth on YouTube for more answers to your questions.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more about the Smart Defense program.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-15
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Elizabeth experienced child sexual abuse as a child, and then she experienced the unthinkable—her own children were victimized. Elizabeth speaks from experience as a survivor herself and as a mother of survivors as she talks about how parents and safe adults can best help children heal. She is now the founder of Operation Innocence, an organization dedicated to stopping child sexual abuse in the military community.
Show Notes:
Visit Elizabeth Peace’s website, elizabethpeace.com, to read her professional bio
Visit operationinnnocence.org to learn more about Elizabeth’s organization.
Visit d2l.org to take the Darkness to Light trainings mentioned by Elizabeth in this episode.
Follow Elizabeth Peace on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more about Smart Defense, our empowering self defense program for women and kids.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-14
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
After a traumatic experience as a child, Amber turned to substance abuse to treat her trauma. This eventually led her into a relationship with a man who trafficked her. At one of the lowest moments of her life, Amber had a spiritual experience in a prison cell, which gave her the strength to seek the treatment she needed. Amber now works with Utah Addiction Centers and is furthering her schooling to make a difference in the fight against sexual violence.
Show notes:
See the Utah Addiction Centers website, where Amber currently works.
Call the National Substance Abuse Hotline at 1-800-662-4357
Chat with the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Join the Victory Club, our community of monthly donors who support the work of the foundation
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
View the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-13
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Brittney was raped in high school, but she didn't realize that her experience was rape until late into college. Why? Her sexual education had not taught her about rape, consent, and coercion. Now, Brittney is the founder of the We Will organization, a national nonprofit working to prevent sexual assault through education. In this episode, she discusses her story, her new children's book designed to teach children about consent, and why sexual education, when done correctly, can significantly lower instances of sexual assault.
Show notes:
Visit the We Will organization website, wewillorg.com
Read “Do You Want a Cookie” for free, mentioned throughout the interview.
Read We Will Heal, mentioned at 23:17.
Read Brittney’s published research paper, mentioned at 11:38.
Follow Brittney on Instagram.
Follow We Will on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Join the Victory Club, our community of monthly donors who support the work of the foundation.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-12
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Elizabeth answers listeners' questions about romantic relationships, supporting survivors, parenting, and dealing with guilt from abuse. The questions this episode were:
- Advice for someone who orgasmed from rape and is struggling. (02:03)
- How can I be comfortable to start dating again with a history of sexual abuse? (04:39)
- How do you tell your boyfriends or husband about past trauma? (07:51)
- How do I help a friend who doesn't want to come forward with her story and filed charges against her abuser? (11:06)
- Are you over protective of your kids after what you went through? (14:43)
Show notes:
Follow Elizabeth on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Elizabeth on YouTube for more answers to your questions.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-11
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
As a survivor of child sexual abuse, Miyo struggled for years to find fulfillment in intimacy. Now, she has a happy, intimate relationship and two children. In this episode, Miyo shares how she and her partner communicate about sex, develop healthy boundaries, and deal with triggers. She wants survivors and their partners to know that there is hope for a happy, fulfilling sexual relationship even after abuse, it just takes work.
For the next few episodes, Smart Talks will focus on healing sexuality after abuse. Whether you are a survivor, a partner of a survivor, or someone who simply wants to learn more, we hope these episodes provide you with new tools and resources. Please note that these discussions may be triggering for some survivors; listener discretion is advised.
Show notes:
Follow Miyo Strong on Instagram
Learn more about the Smart Defense program that Miyo directs.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-10
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Building off of last week's episode, Wendy Maltz, a leading expert on sexual healing from sexual abuse, returns and explains more in-depth the ways that survivors of abuse can have meaningful sexual relationships. The discussion includes addressing triggers during sex, regaining a sense of control over one's sexuality, unwanted sexual fantasies, and more.
For the next few episodes, Smart Talks will focus on healing sexuality after abuse. Whether you are a survivor, a partner of a survivor, or someone who simply wants to learn more, we hope these episodes provide you with new tools and resources. Please note that these discussions may be triggering for some survivors; listener discretion is advised.
Show notes:
Visit Wendy’s website, www.healthysex.com.
Order Wendy’s book mentioned often throughout the interview, The Sexual Healing Journey.
Order Wendy’s book mentioned at various points of the interview, Private Thoughts: Exploring the Power of Women's Sexual Fantasies.View information on Wendy’s other books here.
Watch Wendy’s video, Relearning Touch: Healing Techniques for Couples, for free.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-09.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
"How can I heal my relationship with sex after being raped or abused?"—survivors consistently ask Elizabeth this question. We brought in Wendy Maltz, a leading expert on sexual healing from sexual abuse, to address this often-overlooked topic. In this episode, Wendy and Elizabeth discuss the difference between rape and consensual, healthy sex, how survivors can heal their relationship with their sexuality, and how partners can play an active role in healing.
For the next few episodes, Smart Talks will focus on healing sexuality after abuse. Whether you are a survivor, a partner of a survivor, or someone who simply wants to learn more, we hope these episodes provide you with new tools and resources. Please note that these discussions may be triggering for some survivors; listener discretion is advised.
Show notes:
Visit Wendy’s website, www.healthysex.com.
Order Wendy’s book mentioned often throughout the interview, The Sexual Healing Journey.
Order Wendy’s book mentioned at various points of the interview, Private Thoughts: Exploring the Power of Women's Sexual Fantasies.View information on Wendy’s other books here.
Watch Wendy’s video, Relearning Touch: Healing Techniques for Couples, for free.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Read the full episode transcript at www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-08.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
As the founder and CEO of an event planning company, Melva LaJoy Legrand is a highly successful woman. She is also a survivor of child sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and rape. In this episode, Melva shares her healing journey, including what helps ground her and how she found her personal worth.
Show notes:
Follow Melva on Instagram.
Read Melva’s interview with RAINN.
Watch an interview Melva did with Dr. Plummer of Onyx Therapy Group.
Visit the website for Melva’s event planning business, LaJoy Plans.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more about the Elizabeth Smart Foundation Victory Club.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
In this first of many "Answers with Elizabeth" episodes, Elizabeth Smart answers questions that listeners submitted. Here, she answers these questions surrounding recovery:
- Did you ever relapse in your recovery? (01:15)
- Did you ever feel like yourself again? If so, how long did it take you? (03:36)
- Did you ever really fully return to “normal” or did you learn to live with a new normal? (04:48)
- How do you get past being defined by what happened to you? (07:00)
- How are you so positive despite your experience? (08:18)
Show notes:
Follow Elizabeth on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Elizabeth on YouTube for more answers to your questions.
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-06.
Chat 24/7 with the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Child sexual abuse, domestic violence, kidnapping, and rape—Liza survived it all. Now, she uses her experience to inspire others as a top-ranked keynote speaker, entrepreneur, philanthropist, author, and mother. In this episode, Liza shares the story of what she endured and how she found the strength to move forward despite all odds.
Show notes:
Visit Liza’s official website at www.lizapavlakos.com.
Visit the website Liza mentions at 49:52, www.positivebreakthroughs.com, where you can access the coaching programs she mentioned.
See Liza’s upcoming book, Voiceless No More, here. (Note: currently this link leads to a picture of the cover. We will provide a link to preorder/buy Liza’s book once available.)
Follow Liza on Instagram and Facebook.
Chat 24/7 with support specialists at the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline.
Leave Smart Talks a review on Apple Podcasts.
Read the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-05.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Elizabeth Fisher Good is the founder of the Selah Way Foundation and has helped provide freedom to nearly 10,000 survivors. In this episode, Elizabeth discusses her new book, Groomed, and some ways that parents can start now to protect their children. She also discusses the work of her foundation and different methods of healing that have worked for her and the women she has helped.
Show notes:
To learn more about Elizabeth’s book Groomed and the different programs/groups available, visit www.freewithe.com.
To learn more about The Selah Way Foundation and all of the Prevention resources discussed in this episode, including The Cool Aunt Series, S.P.E.A.K. Up, and how to set parental controls on your child's smartphone and gaming devices, visit www.freewithe.com/theselahway.
Follow Elizabeth Fisher Good on Instagram
Follow the Selah Way Foundation on Instagram.
Follow Selah Freedom on Instagram and Facebook.
For the full show transcript, head to www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-04.
Learn more about the Elizabeth Smart Foundation's Smart Defense program.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Tessa grew up in the world of rock music as the stepdaughter of BoDeans founder Kurt Neumann. Now a mother and advocate, Tessa shares the story of how she was targeted, groomed, and abused by her stepfather's bandmate when she was just nine years old. After the extreme backlash and publicity her story received, Tessa knows just how powerful the words "I believe you" can be.
Show notes:Listen to Tessa's podcast "Strong" here.
Follow Tessa on Instagram.
Follow the Strong Podcast on Instagram.
Read the article where Tessa first shared her story with the public.
Learn more about the Elizabeth Smart Foundation's We Believe You campaign.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Welcome to Season 2 of Smart Talks! To kick the season off, Elizabeth recounts her rescue and her reaction to the support she received from people across the country. While not every survivor receives the same outpouring of support as Elizabeth, Smart Talks is a place where both survivors and supporters can find a sense of community as we learn and move forward together.
Show notes:
See the full episode transcript at elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-talks-2-01
Follow the Elizabeth Smart Foundation on Instagram and Facebook.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Join Elizabeth as she wraps up Season One of Smart Talks with the Elizabeth Smart Foundation. In this finale, Elizabeth shares her thoughts and takeaways from the many survivors, therapists, and experts who generously gave their time to share their stories and insights. Be sure to join us for Smart Talks Season Two, coming in 2021. Email suggestions for the next season to info@elizabethsmartfoundation.org.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Nicole Tanner knows what it feels like to have a child go missing. Her daughter disappeared after meeting a man on Tinder. Now, Nicole helps parents understand how to teach their children phone and internet safety. She also explains the importance of creating an open dialogue with children about intimacy and potentially dangerous situations.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Victim advocates are trained to support victims through information and emotional support. Having served with multiple organizations dedicated to fighting sexual violence, Chelsea Kilpack is a victim advocate, self-defense instructor, and educator. In this episode, she shares the importance of victim advocacy and the role of self-defense in empowering women.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Tom Wadleigh is an expert in treating those struggling with sexual addiction and their partners. He focuses on creating a compassionate environment for clients to talk about their trauma as well as developing a supportive community for each person’s recovery process. In this episode, Tom shares how family systems intervention is used in the treatment of trauma.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Trafficked by her husband, Jenna McKaye tells the story of her abuse, escape, and healing. She now uses her voice to raise awareness, train emergency professionals, and bring hope to other survivors.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
In many areas, indigenous women are murdered at rates more than 10 times the national average. In this episode, a family shares the fight they have faced to receive justice for their mother, Christine.
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Human trafficking survivor Cathy Hoffman returns to the podcast to give an update on her life and healing process. Cathy's story can be found in Smart Talks Episode 7 parts 1 & 2.
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Claudia do Val is the #1 ranked female jiu-jitsu black belt in the world. In this episode, she shares her story and encourages survivors to speak their truths. Due to the ongoing legal situation with her case, Claudia was unable to share any specific details about her story in this episode. She encourages listeners to listen to this podcast in conjunction with an earlier interview, which can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSayInaGWc4&feature=youtu.be&t=2550
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Native American women experience the highest rates of domestic violence, sexual violence, and sex trafficking of any group in the United States. Lynnette Grey Bull and Kylie Hunts-In-Winter share the struggles Native Women face every day to stay safe as well as receive proper justice for crimes against women.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
A pioneer in betrayal trauma, LifeStar therapist Dorothy Maryon shares insights on navigating its complicated and often debilitating effects.
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Marty Liccardo is a coordinator for men's health and violence prevention for the Department of Health. In this episode of Smart Talks, Marty explains why rape is not just a women's issue, but a human issue.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Stephanie Murguia, Executive Director of the Rape Recovery Center, shares insights and helpful resources for rape victims during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Three time Olympic gold medalist and sexual assault survivor, Nancy Hogshead-Makar, shares her story of rape and why it's important to love victims, especially during their most unlovable moments.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
In the United States, 89% of adults report having experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives. Most adults report exposure to multiple traumatic events (Widen the Window, p. 17). Trauma expert and therapist, Todd Olson discusses trauma and how it affects the way victims process and cope.
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31 years–that's how long Julie endured the horrors of abuse, including child sexual abuse, domestic violence, and human sex trafficking. Harvard researcher and professor of psychiatry, Dr. James A. Chu, described Julie's story as "one of the most egregious histories of lifelong abuse I have ever encountered."
Trigger warning: The subject matter in this episode of Smart Talks may be triggering for some listeners.
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1 in 6. That's the ratio of men who experience sexual abuse or assault. One of those men is Sean Escobar. In this Smart Talks episode, Sean shares his story of survival, confronting his abuser, and what he's done to save others from the same fate.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Therapist Debbie Reid dives into Somatic Therapy, what it is, and how it can help victims recover and heal from sexual assault.
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Babysitting jobs can be a great way for young girls to make money. For Jolene, it was a sexual abuse nightmare.
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On June 5, 2002, Elizabeth was kidnapped from her home during the early morning hours. 18 years later she share a special message of hope in this uplifting episode of Smart Talks.
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Kidnapping survivor Jaycee Duggard and Dr. Rebecca Bailey share new research that debunks the Stockholm Syndrome theory.
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How exposed are you online? Elizabeth and Miyo talk with computer scientist, Chris, Carlston, about online safety, including social media and smartphone apps.
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Drugged, kidnapped, and trafficked across state lines. This is the continued story of Cathy, and it all started with a dating app.
Trigger Warning: In this two-part episode of Smart Talks, Cathy describes, in detail, her harrowing experience and escape. Listener discretion is advised.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Drugged, kidnapped, and trafficked across state lines. This is the story of Cathy, and it all started with a dating app.
Trigger Warning: In this two-part episode of Smart Talks, Cathy describes, in detail, her harrowing experience and escape. Listener discretion is advised.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
90% of children are abused by someone they know and trust. 30% are abused by a close family member. Because of quarantining and social distancing due to the outbreak of COVID-19, many children have been forced into cohabitation with their abusers. In this special Giving Tuesday episode of Smart Talks, Elizabeth and Miyo are joined by Katelyn Brewer from Darkness to Light. For two decades, Darkness to Light has been empowering adults to prevent child sexual abuse through education, community advocacy, and research.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Due to the spread of COVID-19, victims of domestic violence are being quarantined with their abusers. In this special Giving Tuesday episode of Smart Talks, Elizabeth and Miyo talk with guests Jessie Richards and Brooke Muir from Fight Against Domestic Violence. Jessie and Brooke shed light on domestic violence in the United States and how we can help victims and their families through shelters and other resources.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Sexual assault can happen to anyone, at any time, at any place, and sharing what happened with others can feel vulnerable and scary. In this episode, talented singer, songwriter, and former American Idol contestant, Bri Ray shares her story about the brazen abuse she experienced and the loving support she received from friends and family to help her come forward.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
In the United States, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 5 boys will experience sexual abuse before age 18–such was the case for Jewish Rabbi, Avremi Zippel. In this eye-opening episode, Avremi shares his story of recovery, healing, and justice after being abused for years by his nanny.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)
Sometimes abuse comes from those in highly trusted positions. This week join Elizabeth and Miyo as they speak with reigning Bellator MMA Flyweight Champion and sexual assault survivor, Ilima-Lei MacFarlane. As a native Hawaiian, Ilimia-Lei shares her story of rising above sexual misconduct at the hand of a former coach, and sheds light on the various forms of abuse plaguing indigenous populations.
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Join Elizabeth Smart and Miyo Strong as they introduce Smart Talks, a podcast dedicated to providing support for survivors and those who love them.
Support the show (https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/donate)