69. CSM Marisa Saucedo: Yeah, I Fell…But I Got Back Up!

Sexual assault is a deeply personal and often traumatic experience that affects millions of individuals worldwide. For survivors, the decision to share their stories with the public is one fraught with complexities and potential consequences. In this episode I’ll help examine and explain the pros and cons of someone telling their sexual assault story to the public, or anyone for that matter, considering both the individual's perspective and the broader societal implications. Here's some of the highlights: Cons of Sharing: 1. Re-Victimization and Trauma 2. Loss of Privacy and Control 3. Impact on Relationships and Careers 4. Secondary Trauma for Loved Ones Pros of Sharing: 1. Empowerment and Healing 2. Raising Awareness and Breaking Stigma 3. Holding Perpetrators Accountable 4. Inspiring Change and Advocacy The decision to share a sexual assault story publicly is deeply personal and complex. While speaking out can expose survivors to potential re-victimization, loss of privacy, and negative consequences for their relationships and well-being, research shows that there are some overwhelmingly important benefits to disclosure that should be strongly considered, including empowering oneself and other survivors, raising awareness, and holding perpetrators accountable. Ultimately what I think is most essential is to support survivors in making informed choices about sharing their stories, respecting their autonomy, and providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate the complexities of disclosure. Creating a culture that values survivors' voices, believes their stories, and prioritizes their healing as we do here at Sexual Assault Survivor Stories is crucial in addressing the pervasive issue of sexual violence and the rape culture that exists in our society. Hopefully this episode helps some of you who are victims or survivors of rape or sexual assault and are struggling with the decision of whether to disclose your experience (to anyone!) or not. I hope you find some answers in listening to this episode! It would be great to hear your thoughts and input on this subject…and whether you found this episode informative and helpful. Please rate this episode and leave me your comments! Your input is appreciated! Please remember to do your part to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault; the best way for you to do that is to Start By Believing. Because, we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault. In addition, here are some links you might find informative, helpful, and resourceful. Please learn about these people and organizations and support them financially if at all possible. They are there for you! Instagram: @coopscw Instagram: @plcnowhere

Part of the common experience in doing interviews of victims and survivors of rape, sexual assault, and other interpersonal violence, is to hear the person I’m interviewing say that they only remember certain parts of their trauma experience, or that there are parts that they’ve tried really hard to remember, but just can’t. Or say that there are parts of their trauma experience that they wish they could forget, but as much as they keep putting it out of their mind, or try not to think about it, they can’t stop the memories, intrusive thoughts, and nightmares. But why is this happening, on both sides of that horrific experience…wanting to remember, but can’t; wanting to forget, but can’t? In this episode I explain what’s going on, to some degree, keeping in mind that the neuroscience of trauma and memory is complex and full of idiosyncrasies. And some parts of the brain and what’s happening with trauma just haven’t been discovered yet. But the science has some very good, detailed, and reliable answers. Here, I try to put some of it into context for you. I hope it helps. It would be great to hear your thoughts and input on this subject…and whether you found this episode informative and helpful. Please rate this episode and leave me your comments! Your input is appreciated! Please remember to do your part to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault; the best way for you to do that is to Start By Believing. Because, we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault. Additionally, here are some links you might find informative, helpful, and resourceful. Please learn about these people and organizations and support them financially if at all possible. They are there for you! Instagram: @coopscw Instagram: @plcnowhere

Several months ago I started noticing on my Instagram feed, several posts and reels that were initiated by an organization called Callisto. I was not particularly paying attention to these posts until one day I noticed one that was entitled “Sexual Assault Prevention,” and had the phrases, “Holding perpetrators accountable,” “Consent education,” “Changing the culture,” and “Bystander intervention.” All of these were principles and subjects that I hold dear to my heart and have taught in my many years as a sexual assault investigation trainer and consultant, and still do. I was then and there, suddenly, very interested in Callisto and what they were all about. Throughout the following year I learned more and more about Callisto and knew that eventually I would reach out to them and find out if there was someone on their staff who might be willing to be a guest on this show and tell the world all about the organization so that my audience could become educated about Callisto, and what they had to offer. But also wanted them on my show as a way to help spread the word about Callisto Vault, and how this organization could gain more attention and support, and therefore more participants in the confidential Callisto Vault Matching System. This system allows survivors of rape or sexual assault to safely and confidentially determine whether others have been harmed by the same perpetrator without having to publicly disclose or report their assault to authorities. I reached out to Callisto with my request for someone to be a representative of their organization to be a guest with me on SASS. To my very pleasant surprise, I was set up for an appointment with the CEO of Callisto, Tracy DeTomasi. The greetings and formalities were attended to, and Tracy agreed to be on the show. And what an episode this is…Tracy is the consummate professional, and as I learned, the exceptional choice of the organization to be the CEO of Callisto. (Your opportunity to read the official announcement of Tracy’s 2022 appointment as CEO of Callisto and learn more about her amazing qualifications and past achievements can be found ) This episode will not disappoint! To learn more about Callisto and the phenomenal work they are doing to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault, check out their website at: Other sites I hope you will check out include:

Activation and discretion warning: This episode contains explicit and graphic descriptions of physical assault, animal abuse, sexual assault, and rape. Caution and discretionary action are required. This episode is not for children. Please use extreme self-care in listening to this episode and if you are activated or triggered and need help, call the national sexual assault telephone hotline at 1-800.656.hope; that’s 1-800-656-4673. A little bit about my guest this week, Merle Yost: Merle Yost is a psychotherapist, author of six books, and teacher. His last book is , and he is here promoting his new workshop series, Seven Steps to Powerful Boundaries. He has been a private practice therapist for over 30 years and specializes in trauma, particularly for men sexually abused as children. He is an Approved Consultant in EMDR, a San Francisco Gestalt Institute graduate, has a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology: Transpersonal Specialization, and a B.A. in Management. Merle loves to discuss the positive changes that his workshop series makes in many people's lives. This is one of those “hold-on-to-your-hat!” episodes…on several levels! Merle Yost is my guest this week, and he ranks up there as one of the most accomplished professionals I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing and getting to know about his truly mind-blowing life-story. First just let me tell you that Merle dedicated his adult life to becoming educated and skilled at learning the intricate understandings of the human mind and behaviors. The amazing aspect of this achievement is that he did so despite what many people would have considered a future-ending childhood filled with a tremendous amount of physical, emotional, and sexual pain and assault from his father… despite enduring a cult-like childhood of emotional turmoil and abuse from his mother…despite the emotional turmoil of spending much of his youth and young adulthood in a dissociative state. And all the while, suffering from the confusing and embarrassing condition of gynecomastia, which he knew nothing about; only that it brought on an immense amount of teasing and physical abuse.  After hearing Merle’s story, you would think that the chances of succeeding in life and accomplishing the dream of becoming a psychotherapist and a marriage and family therapist, as well as an expert in gynecomastia who could help others through their own confusion and shame, would be next to nil. But Merle faced the horror and pain of his childhood and young adulthood, and persevered. He went on to open a psychotherapy practice which became full, almost immediately. He wrote 6 books, several of which became best-sellers. He’s writing his seventh book now. And he wrote, produced, and launched an online video workshop entitled “Seven Steps to Powerful Boundaries.” And he’s now writing his seventh book—a memoire. There’s nothing about Merle that won’t impress and astound you. He’s amazing. And I’m honored to call him friend, and honored that he agreed to be on this show! I hope you’ll listen to this episode, and then that you’ll tell everyone you know that they should listen to it, too! I’m very convinced you won’t be disappointed or sorry that you did! There’s healing in his story for everyone! Here are some ways to learn more about Merle, to subscribe to his video workshop series, and to buy his books:  Business Name: Merle Yost, LMFT/Unspoken Boundaries Website:  Link to Book on Amazon, Facing the Truth of Your Life:  LinkedIn:  Instagram: Additional Website: Additional links I hope you’ll check out:  https://startbybelieving.org #unspokenboundaries #merleyost #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #retireddetective #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed#safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #ericbarreras #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #baylor #ashforduniversity #uofaglobalcampus #psychologymajor #amandacoleman #remembermolly #fightrapeculture #forcescience

In the grand scheme of this podcast, my goal has always been to provide a platform for victims and survivors to tell their stories of rape or sexual assault in a safe environment, to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape or sexual assault, and to provide my listeners with insights, education, and guidance to help survivors on their healing journey. Additionally, I’ve endeavored to help others, in all walks of life, better understand the dynamics of rape and sexual assault and to bring trauma-informed education to everyone. Caroline Markel Hammond is one of those rare people who comes to this show with a survivor story of a horrific series of rapes and sexual assaults, a phenomenal story of healing, and loads of education and experience on all types of interpersonal violence and trauma. She is also trauma-informed and provides help, guidance, and truly relevant tips and ideas on mitigating post-traumatic stress and prospering on the healing path. On top of all of that, she is the CEO of two non-profit organizations: “Safe in Harm’s Way,” designed to provide immediate assistance and resources for victims and survivors of interpersonal violence, and “Epizon Strategy Solutions,” designed to provide businesses with all sorts of organizational and profit solutions with an emphasis on preventing and handling interpersonal violence in the workplace. The opportunity of having Caroline on this show is a true treasure. So much so, that I asked her if she would be willing to be a monthly guest on SASS. Caroline agreed to the plan, as her schedule allows, and to provide a monthly update on what is happening within Safe In Harm’s Way, and to share with us her progress on her own healing path. I am honored to have Caroline as this week’s guest. You can find out more about Caroline’s non-profit organizations and her work at: https://safeinharmsway.org https://carolinemarkelhammond.com/ Other websites I would appreciate you visiting: https://markel-consulting.com https://placesnowhere.com https://startbybelieving.org https://evawi.org   #createpeacefulsolutions #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #retireddetective #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed#safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #ericbarreras #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #baylor

Some might find this episode and think, “This is a shameless plug for Dave’s wife’s cousin.” But the honest truth is, that is not my intention at all! I ran across my wife’s cousin’s Facebook page and saw that she had started a new business. “She” is Tiffany Thomson. The thing that caught my eye was that Tiffany, who I haven’t seen since about 2005 or so, had updated her Instagram profile picture and I noticed that she had recently started a conflict coaching/mediation/public speaking/meditation/training practice called Create Peaceful Solutions…all based on being trauma informed. When I read more about her business, I noticed that she specifically worked with trauma victims and survivors. I was stunned! The only things I remembered from my last contact with her was that she was a fantastic photographer at family reunions, and that she worked in the social services field…in some capacity. So, I reached out to Tiffany on Instagram Messenger and asked her if she might be interested in being on my podcast and asked her to listen to an episode or two, to see if she might be a fit for the show; then we talked by phone, and it became obvious that she was! I was elated that she could be a strong source of information and support for you, my audience. And she was excited about the prospect of providing some information that may be of some help to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault! It was settled, and we recorded this episode just a couple of weeks ago. I’m quite proud of this episode because Tiffany does exactly what I thought she would: provide some great insights about trauma and help to those of you who listen. And, as it works out, I’m not ashamed to push Tiffany’s services of coaching, instructing, providing a keynote, or just offering support to victims and survivors…of any type of trauma. So, I’m providing her email address, phone number, and her website address. She would love to hear from you. And I believe she can help any of you who reach out to her. Thank you all for listening to this episode. Please let me know what you think. Email me with your thoughts about Tiffany’s comments and her coaching service, and about the Sexual Assault Survivor Stories Podcast. I’d appreciate you following me and rating the show. And, if you’re a victim or survivor of rape or sexual assault, and you feel like you are ready to share your story to help further your healing journey, or help someone else on theirs, email me and we’ll discuss the possibility. It would be an honor to talk to you! As always, please do your part to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault…the best way to do this is to Start By Believing (EVAWI’s campaign!). And please tune in again next week! Here’s how to get a hold of Tiffany: @create_peaceful_solutions (Tiffany’s Instagram username) Ph. 1-615-863-3101 Some other websites I hope you’ll check out:

Activation and discretion warning: These notes and this episode contain explicit and graphic descriptions of kidnapping, physical assault, and rape. Caution and action are required. This episode is not for children. Please use extreme discretion in listening to this episode and if you are activated or triggered and need help, call the national sexual assault telephone hotline at1-800.656.hope; that’s 1-800-656-4673.   Imagine being a teenaged gay person living with a father who thinks homosexuals should be killed. And then, when you try to make a connection with another gay 15-year-old, you find out he’s not really 15…he’s closer to 50, and he kidnaps you, beats you, then rapes you. Afterwards, you have no one to report the crime to, and no one to confide in because if you do, your father will know you’re gay. It’s a devastating life, living with this torment for the next 7 years. It is a situation that would cause most people to want to not be alive. That’s what Plamen Draganov thought: that not being on earth any longer would be better than living with his memories and feeling the way he felt. But it wasn’t the end for Plamen. In his early twenties, he found solace in learning Tai Chi. And then he found a mentor to help him in learning how to teach Tai Chi, including the mental processes necessary for practicing Tai Chi correctly…learning how to control one’s mind to control one’s body. Things started to change for Plamen; he started learning about psychology on his own, too. The healing had begun. But healing can be as devastating as the assault…until it’s not. When milestones are reached, and the realizations of shame and guilt are manifested, life can start to get better. It did for Plamen. And it still is; while meeting the qualifications to be a life coach, Plamen also learned that his healing must continue. Listen to Plamen’s episode. You’ll hear him reveal his healing process in a tremendously raw, transparent, and brutally honest way. This is truth in one of the most healing manifestations that I’ve encountered. Plamen offers to help others in several ways: telling his story of being kidnapped, beaten, and raped is one way. Another is through teaching Tai Chi. And he also is a practicing life coach. Here is the bio Plamen provided: “From a degree in Marketing and Management to a profound journey in psychology, Plamen's career is a narrative of transformative change. Choosing to pivot from a conventional career to follow his passion for understanding the human psyche, he has emerged as a guiding light in trauma coaching, blending professional knowledge with his personal victory over life's adversities. Adept in Tai Chi and Chinese martial arts, trained under world-renowned masters, Plamen has earned numerous national and European gold medals. His skill in Tai Chi complements his certification in mindset coaching, specializing in trauma and self-sabotage. This combination offers a comprehensive approach to healing and personal growth. Plamen's life story is integral to his professional identity. Tai Chi was his refuge during challenging times, leading him to his vocation as a trauma coach. He is driven by a mission to ensure that no one feels compelled to live in the shadows of their traumatic past. Client’s praise Plamen for creating an environment of tranquility and understanding. Known for his calm demeanor and insightful questions, he helps clients see new possibilities and paths forward. As a client once said, Plamen helps you find hope and alternative perspectives, making you feel understood and never alone. Currently writing a book, Plamen aspires to share his insights on a global scale. His ultimate goal is to speak on international stages, impacting millions with his story of resilience and hope. Plamen’s mantra, born from his trials, is a message of empowerment: "I’ve been pushed to the edge so many times, I’ve learned to fly." His journey is an invitation for others to discover their inner strength and soar." How to get in touch -  Additional links I hope you’ll check out. #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #retireddetective #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed#safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #ericbarreras #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #baylor

Being in the US Army Reserve requires discipline. And commitment. And top-notch performance. If you fail at any of these there can be serious consequences…including being discharged. One of the requirements is that during “battle assembly” (weekend training) you have to be there; if a Soldier fails to attend on a consistent basis, they can face that discharge. Such was the case of then Sergeant Marisa Saucedo. She failed to show up for battle assembly—a lot. So much so that almost a year had gone by, and Marisa hadn’t shown up for battle assembly. And eventually, she got called in to her commander’s office for a disciplinary review for her unsatisfactory attendance and performance. She was about to be kicked out of the Army Reserve. But fortunately, Marisa had an exemplary commander who asked her what she wanted from the Army…she explained that she wanted to serve her country and remain in the Reserves. Then she told her commander why she hadn’t been coming to battle assembly: that she was in an abusive relationship and that her significant other was forbidding her from attending battle assembly, but that she was going to get out of the relationship. Her commander gave Sgt. Saucedo a second, and final, chance. That was 20 years ago. Today Marisa is a Command Sergeant Major, the second highest rank for an enlisted Soldier. CSM Saucedo is an exemplary Soldier. And she is also a civilian who holds a career as an Army Reserve Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program Director and an Army SARC (Sexual Assault Response Coordinator). Marisa feels like she has the best of both her military and civilian worlds. She loves and excels at her job. Marisa is an extremely articulate and intelligent person…these qualities shine in this episode, and I feel extremely honored and privileged to have her on this show. Because Marisa not only explains what she does as a SARC and Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention SHARP Program Director, but she also was willing to tell us about her sexual assault and interpersonal violence experience, and about her healing journey. There’s much benefit to be gained in listening to this episode; I hope you listen to this, and that you Start by Believing; because we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault. And finally, please share this episode with everyone you know. #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #USArmyReserve #commandsergeantmajor #sarc #sharp #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed #safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #ashforduniversity #amandacoleman #remembermolly #fightrapeculture #forcescience

If someone is serious about attempting to fulfil a significant, meaningful, and overwhelmingly difficult objective, the effort can often-times feel ineffective, even pointless. Having this type of purpose-filled lifegoal can be exhausting and often will end in frustration long before even a small dent can be made in the predicament. Especially if that objective is being fueled by a large accumulation of the populace who carry long-held misunderstandings of the scope of the problem, confusion on what the definition of the problem is, and/or is blatantly apathetic to the scourge. The measure of frustration is exacerbated if the plague seems to be supported, even if unwittingly, by an under-educated and seemingly indifferent social norm. When that menace is child, adolescent, or adult rape and sexual assault, the individuals striving to combat it must navigate a complex landscape of societal attitudes, legal intricacies, and deeply rooted misconceptions. Addressing such a pervasive and complex issue requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, advocacy, and legislative reforms. It becomes crucial to dismantle the prevailing myths surrounding rape and sexual assault, fostering a culture of empathy and awareness of the impact of trauma. As these dedicated efforts persist, it is imperative to emphasize the importance of community involvement, encouraging conversations that challenge harmful norms and empower survivors. By fostering a collective commitment to change, progress can be achieved, and the fight against sexual violence can evolve into a transformative force for societal well-being. Someone who is focused, intentional, and resolute on finding a corrective pathway to accomplishing such a tremendous and overwhelming mission can easily become exhausted and needs consistent and constant support, both emotionally and practically, to sustain their commitment. The journey towards achieving such a formidable mission demands not only inner strength but also a reliable network of allies, resources, and encouragement. In the face of persistent challenges and setbacks, having a robust support system becomes indispensable, offering the necessary motivation and reassurance to navigate the complexities of the endeavor. In my experiences of investigating the horrific and devastating crimes of rape and sexual assault, on persons of any age, as well as in my work as a trainer/consultant in this field, and now as the host of this podcast, which is dedicated to awareness and healing from these crimes, I have had the pleasure and honor of working with a multitude of both individuals and organizations whose efforts are directly involved in this very goal…reducing the prevalence, and increasing the awareness and positive societal responses, to rape and sexual assault. In fact, I have strived to highlight many of those individuals and organizations on this show. One of those individuals, who has in fact been a guest before, is back this week: Jan Broberg is here. I brought her back again to update us on what she is doing to further all those difficult, yet meaningful efforts to accomplish that which needs to be done to fight rape, sexual assault, and the apathetic societal norms that are pervasive all around us. I brought Jan back on the show as my way of providing an avenue of helping replenish her, even if in a small degree…to provide that very consistent and constant support that I just mentioned; to provide a measure of emotional and practical encouragement to help sustain her and her commitment to victims and survivors of all ages, as she had done for me in agreeing to be on my show and allowing me to be the co-host on her podcast. And to provide you, my listeners, with her ongoing sense of focus, intention, and resolution that this work takes. She’s got it. As do all the people that work with her in her non-profit foundation, and those who are members of her Thrivivors On-line Community. Jan is one of those impressive people who are doing the hard work, like many others in this small-but-mighty force of people around the globe who are striving toward the same ends. Jan won’t quit. She as much as says so in this episode. It’s powerful and it’s meaningful. I hope you listen to this, and that you Start by Believing; because we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault. Here are some critically important links I would appreciate you looking into: #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed #safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #ashforduniversity #amandacoleman #remembermolly #fightrapeculture #forcescience

Activation warning: this episode contains explicit and graphic descriptions of attempted suicide, physical assault, sexual assault, and rape. Discretionary caution is strongly advised. This episode is not for children. Please use extreme self-care in listening to this episode and seek immediate help through the national suicide hotline by dialing 988 if you are emotionally activated or triggered by the content of this episode. Or if you are activated and need help from the national sexual assault telephone hotline, call 1-800.656.hope (4673). One of the most revealing signs of hidden abuse, torture, and shame would be attempting to eat your way out of feeling attractive. Gaining hundreds of pounds in an attempt to alter your appearance, to hide any perceived attraction you might unwittingly draw, and risking your health and even your life in the process, is undeniably a profound cry for help. When this method fails, perhaps an actual outcry will suffice...resorting to an all-out tantrum, screaming and cursing-out your perpetrator, refusing to perform the obscene acts demanded, pounding fists and feet into the floor while lamenting the ongoing sexual assaults. Yet, this horrific scene only escalates in to more of a catastrophe as you receive a slap across your face and a beating with a belt, leaving you barely able to stand. However, the gravity of the situation compounds further: adding to the hurt, shame, and anguish, the perpetrator is your pastor, and the person administering your punishment for swearing, while at the same time disbelieving your disclosure of sexual assault, is your own mother—who, incidentally, is your pastor's lover. This is an intense story. Is it difficult to listen to? Perhaps. However, it's a story that MUST be told. I am immensely grateful that Cheryl has the courage, fortitude, and strength to share it. But that's not all—wait until you hear about her healing journey. It's a process, not an event, and Cheryl embraces this journey wholeheartedly. Just listen. #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #retiredcop #traumainformed #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed #safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #ashforduniversity #amandacoleman #remembermolly #fightrapeculture #forcescience