In this episode of the Voice 2 Change Podcast, our host Jocelyn Maminta interviews Dr. Shamina Aubuchon, the inspiring author of the children's book, "If You Touch, I'll Tell." Shamina, a courageous survivor of child sexual abuse, shares her journey and the powerful motivation behind becoming an author. Her book serves as an invaluable resource for educating children and parents about safety and prevention. Learn about the importance of empowering children to use their voices, the crucial role of parental guidance, and how to identify the warning signs of grooming.

Shamina Aubuchon is a dedicated advocate and author who channels her personal experiences into powerful narratives to raise awareness on sexual abuse. Born a survivor of child sexual abuse, Shamina found the courage and determination to address this pervasive problem through her writing. Shamina urges parents to discuss these uncomfortable topics and encourages children to use their voices.

Topics Discussed:

• Shamina's personal experience with child sexual abuse
• Inspiration behind writing the book
• The importance of speaking about difficult topics
• Finding the right age and methods to discuss such topics with children
• Importance of prevention, rather than cure
• Strategies for keeping children safe
• Empowering children through the book’s message
• Warning signs and behaviors to be wary of
• The importance of believing children when they disclose abuse
• Encouraging children to use their voice for protection

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Shamina's book 'If You Touch, I'll Tell'

Also available at ⁠ifyoutouchilltell.com⁠

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In this episode of the Voice 2 Change podcast by Jane Doe No More, we talk with Rachel Henderson about the Gail Burns Smith, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE) program in Connecticut. Rachel explains how the SAFE program provides a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to conducting medical forensic exams for sexual assault survivors. The conversation highlights the importance of the SAFE program in bridging healthcare and legal systems to support survivors, discussing how forensic nurses are trained, the challenges they face, and their impact in empowering survivors through choice and support. The episode also underscores the critical services provided by the Connecticut Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services, offering extensive support and resources for victims throughout their healing and legal journey.

Rachel Henderson is the response program manager for the Connecticut Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services, specifically for the Gail Burns Smith, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) program. With over a decade of emergency department nursing experience and 25 years of providing emergent patient care across the state, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role. She oversees 33 SAFE professionals who respond to eight hospitals and one student health center in central and eastern Connecticut.

Topics Discussed:

• Explanation of SAFE program
• Integration of law enforcement and healthcare systems
• Male nurses' challenges and patient comfort considerations
• Core of empathetic care
• Meeting patients where they are
• Empowering patient rights and choices
• Building rapport and collaboration with advocacy groups
• Role of forensic nurses in courtrooms and legal processes
• Noticing a gap in staff confidence for assault cases
• Effects of compassionate care on patient behavior

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In this episode of the Voice2Change podcast we discuss teen dating violence, featuring our special guest Brenda Harkavy, a former SVU prosecutor and experienced litigator. The discussion reveals that one in three teens experiences dating violence, with both physical and digital forms of abuse being prevalent. Harkavy explains various warning signs of teen dating violence, including excessive texting, controlling behavior, digital harassment, and isolation tactics.

The episode focuses on the importance of parents maintaining open communication with their teens about healthy relationships and the potential dangers of digital interactions. Brenda also talks about legal protections and resources for teens in abusive relationships.

Brenda Harkavy is an experienced litigator who has represented numerous survivors in cases involving institutional misconduact. She previously served as a Special Victims Unit (SVU) prosecutor, where she handled hundreds of teen dating violence cases in Baltimore City and other jurisdictions. During her time as an SVU prosecutor, she was actively involved in educating teens about dating violence by facilitating assemblies at local high schools. Topics Discussed:

• Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
• Signs and types of teen dating violence
• Importance of raising awareness about unhealthy relationships
• Statistics on teen dating violence in the U.S.
• Empowering teens to recognize signs of abuse
• Legal implications and potential for escalating behavior
• Legal Protections for Teens
• Educating children about their digital footprint
• Setting healthy boundaries and limits for internet use

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In today's episode of Voice2Change, our guest Kristen Gibbons Feden delves into the complexities of legal battles against sexual predators and institutions. Drawing from her extensive background as a former prosecutor and current civil litigator, Feden discusses the critical importance of building trust with survivors, preparing them for the arduous legal process. The conversation underscores the essential role of expert testimony, the challenges of prosecuting intimate partner violence cases, and the profound impact of financial compensation in aiding survivors' recovery. The episode not only addresses the legal and emotional intricacies involved but also provides resources and emphasizes community support in preventing future sexual violence.

Kristen Gibbons Feden is a distinguished attorney and former prosecutor renowned for her impactful work in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, one of the state's largest counties. Driven by a deep commitment to public service, Feden dedicated her legal career to seeking justice for victims, particularly in cases involving sexual crimes. Her prosecutorial expertise extended to handling a wide array of serious offenses, including childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and elder exploitation. Through her dedication and service, Feden has established a legacy of advocating for the vulnerable and striving for justice within the legal system.

Topics Discussed:

• Legal battles against sexual predators and institutions
• Building trust and allowing survivors to share their stories on their own terms
• Transparency and explaining each step of the legal process
• Preparing survivors for cross-examination and harsh questioning
• Familiarizing survivors with the courtroom and supporting them during trials
• Emphasis on policy changes to prevent sexual violence
• Importance of expert testimony to educate juries
• Criticism of institutions prioritizing profit over safety
• Cases involving severe trauma and the necessity of compensation

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In today's episode of Voice2Change, we explore the challenges older adults face when discussing past abuse. Our guest, Daniel, underscores the importance of creating safe spaces for these conversations and being present to listen. He sheds light on the complexities of processing past trauma, emphasizing personal healing, finding supportive communities, and respecting individuals’ autonomy while navigating these conversations.

Daniel Kaye grew up in a generation where silence was the norm, and personal struggles were often shrouded in secrecy. Witnessing the pervasive sense of shame and reluctance to speak openly about personal histories, Daniel became a quiet yet powerful advocate for acknowledging and learning from the past. His work has paved the way for future generations to engage with honesty and empathy. In addition to his advocacy, Daniel has written and illustrated three children's books.

Topics Discussed:

• Internalized shame and blame
• Processing past trauma
• Healing complexity
• Older Generations' silence
• Self-acceptance and healing
• Intergenerational conversations
• Respecting autonomy
• Support resources

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Buy Daniel's Books

In today's Voice2Change episode, we dive deep into the world of investigative journalism with our guest, Rachel de Leon. Known for her impactful documentaries, Rachel joins us to discuss her latest work, "Victim/Suspect," now streaming on Netflix. This documentary reveals the complex and often troubling dynamics involved when victims report sexual crimes, only to find themselves doubted or even criminalized by the very system meant to protect them.

From uncovering interrogation tactics to highlighting stories too often dismissed, Rachel's investigation shines a light on the urgent need for reform. Join us as we venture into the heart of these critical issues, offering insights, hope, and voices that demand to be heard.

Topics Discussed:

• Balancing sensitivity with journalistic rigor
• False reporting allegations and police investigation scrutiny
• Coercive methods used by detectives on victims
• Understanding Miranda Rights & arrest procedures
• Emotional challenges for victims resulting from criminalization and recantations
• Advice for aspiring investigative reporters
• Editing and content decisions
• Transparency, source reliability and the impact on individuals

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In today's Voice2Change episode, we delve into the internal struggles faced by survivors of sexual crimes, such as feelings of failure and fear of blame. Our guest Chris emphasizes listening without trying to "fix" the survivor, asking supportive questions, and practicing empathy and self-compassion. She recommends local resources like rape crisis centers and encourages finding the right therapist. Highlighting misunderstandings around psychological concepts like counterintuitive behaviors and cognitive dissonance. Chris advocates for better education to support survivors effectively.

Chris Schopen has dedicated a remarkable career to addressing trauma and abuse, working in various roles such as an educator, therapist, forensic interviewer, school counselor, expert witness, and author. With extensive experience interviewing over 5,000 victims both nationally and internationally, Chris has become a respected figure in the field. This wealth of experience naturally led to their current role as a wellness trainer with the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. In this position, Chris is committed to enhancing the well-being of all employees, from the front-line receptionist to the county attorney herself, by providing support that intertwines personal and professional development. Recognizing Chris’s expertise and having collaborated for nearly two decades, the county attorney specifically created this role to leverage Chris’s unique skills to foster a healthy and supportive work environment.

• Role of support groups and advocacy centers
• Encouragement of empathy and self-compassion
• Counterintuitive Behaviors and Cognitive Dissonance
• Influence on perceptions of sexual assault and myths about the crime
• Learn about local resources like rape crisis centers and domestic violence shelters
• Empathy and Self-Compassion

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In today's Voice2Change episode, we delve into the critical issue of rape kit backlogs and the profound impact it has on sexual assault survivors. We'll discuss the frustration expressed by the lack of tracking for rape kits and the incredible efforts being made in Michigan and other states to implement tracking systems for victims, giving access to monitor the status of their rape kits. Join us as we uncover the challenges, progress, and crucial initiatives to address this issue, and learn why it is so important.

Our guest Rebecca Campbell graduated with a degree in psychology from Michigan State University and went on to do an internship at a domestic violence rape crisis center. She volunteered with survivors in hospital emergency rooms and helped them with medical forensic exams. This experience inspired her to go to graduate school and become a research psychologist, focusing on improving support for rape survivors. Her work is motivated by her experiences as a volunteer and her desire to make a positive impact in this field.

• The lack of tracking for rape kits

• Backlog in Detroit of 11,000 rape kits dating back to the 1980s
• Efforts to address the issue and prevent future backlogs
• Victims' rights regarding rape kit exams
• Law enforcement misconceptions about rape
• Understanding the resources available for sexual assault survivors
• Efforts to prevent similar backlogs in the future

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