Podcasts about Safe Horizon

Lisa Jacobs is the President of US eCential Robotics and the Founder of STRIPES Women in MedTech. Lisa shares how her path evolved from registered dietitian, ballerina, gymnast, and NFL cheerleader into a two-decade MedTech commercialization career focused on bringing surgical technology—robotics and navigation—from concept to clinical adoption. She explains her consulting-based approach to sales centered on solving surgeons' real problems, and her leadership philosophy of creating clarity, trust, accountability, and momentum without being a “know-it-all.” Lisa also unpacks why she founded STRIPES, a global nonprofit with 3,000 members offering mentorship, networking, and education to support women navigating growth, career transitions, and negotiation.  Guest links: https://www.stripes.network/  Charity supported: Safe Horizon Interested in being a guest on the show or have feedback to share? Email us at theleadingdifference@velentium.com.  PRODUCTION CREDITS Host & Editor: Lindsey Dinneen Producer: Velentium Medical   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT Episode 076 - Lisa Jacobs [00:00:00] Lindsey Dinneen: Hi, I'm Lindsey and I'm talking with MedTech industry leaders on how they change lives for a better world. [00:00:09] Diane Bouis: The inventions and technologies are fascinating and so are the people who work with them. [00:00:15] Frank Jaskulke: There was a period of time where I realized, fundamentally, my job was to go hang out with really smart people that are saving lives and then do work that would help them save more lives. [00:00:28] Diane Bouis: I got into the business to save lives and it is incredibly motivating to work with people who are in that same business, saving or improving lives. [00:00:38] Duane Mancini: What better industry than where I get to wake up every day and just save people's lives. [00:00:42] Lindsey Dinneen: These are extraordinary people doing extraordinary work, and this is The Leading Difference. Hello, and welcome back to another episode of The Leading Difference podcast. I'm your host, Lindsey, and today I'm delighted to welcome my guest, Lisa Jacobs. Lisa is the president of US eCential Robotics, as well as the CEO of STRIPES, which is a networking organization for women in MedTech. With expertise in medical device sales, she's a high performing executive sales leader, known for formulating and executing scalable strategies to accelerate business expansion, revenue generation, and team development in startup turnaround and rapid growth environments across domestic and global markets. All right, Lisa, welcome to the podcast. Thank you so much for being here today. [00:01:30] Lisa Jacobs: Thank you so much for having me. [00:01:32] Lindsey Dinneen: Of course. I'd love if you would start off by sharing a little bit about yourself, your background, and what led you to medtech. [00:01:40] Lisa Jacobs: Of course. Yeah. So I've been a medtech executive and commercialization leader for more than two decades. My experience has been in bringing surgical technology from concept to widespread clinical adoption. Also, my career is really focused on startups with high growth and complex environments. Everything from early stage robotics to scaling global platforms across the US market. Today I serve as president of North America for eCential Robotics, where I oversee commercialization, surgeon adoptions, partnerships with implant partners, market strategy, and open platform surgical navigation ecosystem. In parallel, I'm the founder of STRIPES Women in Medtech, which is a global non-profit, created a support, connect and elevate women across the industry. I spent my career sitting at the intersection of innovation, people, and execution, and I care deeply about building businesses that are both high performing and human centered. [00:02:47] Lindsey Dinneen: Very nice. Okay, so going back to, let's say growing up, did you always think that you might an interest in or a future career in healthcare, health techs, things like that? Or did this sort of evolve over time? [00:03:03] Lisa Jacobs: It evolved over time, actually. My degree, I'm a registered dietician by trade. And I was a ballerina, so I always thought I was gonna open a dance studio. So it's been, it was a complete pivot from what I went to college for and what I thought I was gonna do growing up. [00:03:21] Lindsey Dinneen: Okay. Yeah. All right. Well, we have to dive into the ballerina aspect, obviously, since I am too. So, so did you dance all the way through high school, college, beyond? [00:03:32] Lisa Jacobs: Yes, I danced through high school and college. I was also a gymnast. And then I became an NFL cheerleader in my, when I was 18 years old for the Patriots. So that's kind of where it took me. So then, you know, when I, after college, I decided I was gonna be a starving ballerina, but it's always been my passion and love. So I'm still very into fitness and wellness and definitely do Pilates and yoga and try to keep that part of my life alive. But I always miss dancing and wonder what would've happened if I went down that path, yeah. [00:04:08] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, of course. Well, the good thing is you can always still do some kind of dancing or support it or however you, so it's it's not gone. [00:04:19] Lisa Jacobs: Yep. It's around my house. Yeah. Yeah, [00:04:22] Lindsey Dinneen: Exactly. Okay. And so nutrition. Okay, so did that evolve because you were a dancer and interested in that kind of wellness aspect or? [00:04:32] Lisa Jacobs: It was, you know, I'm Portuguese, so there is obesity in my family and I had to work really hard to stay thin for dance, gymnastics and, you know, cheerleading. So, you know, at cheerleading I used to get weighed in, so I was always exercising and trying to find what was right to eat and I didn't wanna hop on the diet fat. So I studied nutrition because of that. And throughout my dance career, I found a lot of girls who were either anorexic or bulimic or a combination of both. And it really, and one of my friends did die from anorexia, so I dove in deep into the study of that and how to help people. [00:05:22] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. And you're still helping people all the time. You're in medtech and you're doing amazing work. So do you mind sharing a little bit about, yeah, your current role and maybe sort of the leadership journey that took you there? [00:05:36] Lisa Jacobs: Sure. My current role is with an open platform, which was based out of France. And I'm bringing, I just opened an office in Franklin, Tennessee. It's just been a year to this month. So, our technology is differentiating in robotics and navigation. And I remember earlier in my career when I stood in the operating room watching a surgeon place a complex implant using a navigation system I helped bring to market, I realized my work was directly impacting patient outcomes, but also easing the mental load of the surgeon with navigation. And still today you hear that surgeons want navigation to decrease their mental load and robotics to decrease their physical load. So that moment crystallized something for me. I didn't wanna just sell products. I wanted to build platforms that changed possibility in medtech to give a rare opportunity to blend science, engineering, technology, and give experience to surgeons that would help them directly to help patients. So it's hard to imagine doing anything else now that has such an impact. [00:06:54] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, I I can, I understand how-- it's really cool to be a part of mission-driven organizations, which is something that I actually wanted to talk with you about because I know that you are very mission-centric and you care a lot about making a difference and and being helpful and and so I was just wondering where did that come from, was this a core belief of yours sort of throughout your whole life, or how did that evolve too? [00:07:22] Lisa Jacobs: I think it was embedded with me, with my parents. Both of my parents were incredibly helpful to neighbors, community, family. I come from a big family and my father would always go out and help anyone who needed it. And my mother was the same, you know, all of my friends wanted to come to my house to hang out with my mother 'cause she would take care of everyone, drive them to any games or anything they had. So, it was just, I think a core belief with the way I was raised. [00:07:54] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Okay. That makes a lot of sense. And then it's something that, I think, is so helpful 'cause it continues to drive and motivate as you go along throughout your career and you've had such a wide variety of experiences. So tell us a little bit more about your approach to selling. I was, I was reading a little bit on your LinkedIn profile and it mentioned that you prefer to have kind of a consulting approach, I think to, to selling. And I was curious if you could expound on that a bit? [00:08:24] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah, absolutely. So a lot of salespeople are taught to sell on features and benefits, right? You go in, you have a widget. You're talking about your widget. You're trying to get them to use whatever you're trying to sell, but they don't listen to the surgeon's need and ask doctor, surgeon-- whoever you're selling to-- your client's needs about what are their problems they currently have? How do you solve for their problems? What are you bringing to the table to help them either in the operating room or in their clinic. And I think it has to be more natural and more conversational instead of selling on features and benefits. You need to know who you're talking to and do your homework before you enter the room or even try to sell to that person. But what problem are you trying to solve for? And I think too many times people go to sales training and you learn your surgical technique. You learn your features and benefits and you learn your pitch, but it's not conversational and it's not natural. And I think whoever you're selling to gets very turned off by that type of selling. [00:09:38] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, I, I have found that it's actually being-- I I don't like being sold to, I suppose most people don't in some way, and it, and, you know, especially that tactic of sort of, yeah, just kind of coming in uh, maybe assume it-- well, the way that it comes across is assuming that they know exactly what I'm dealing with or that all the problems are the same regardless. And you know, that might be true, but I think you're right. Having that very human moment of curiosity and connection can make all the difference in terms of how I feel about, well, the salesperson and the product or the service. So yeah, that's, that makes a lot of sense. So, okay. When you became a leader, this is of course a, a journey and a pathway, but what are some of the things that you knew, you know, "Yes, I want to be like this" and "No, I don't want to be like this." Like what, did your your own leadership style develop? [00:10:39] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah, I think leadership is about the ability to create clarity for an organization, alignment as a team, and momentum, you know, especially in uncertainty. And it's not about having all the answers. I know I don't wanna be a know-it-all, right? And only my way, and the way I sell and I approach is the only way. I think it's about building trust, setting direction and empowering people to do their best work. I think that great leaders definitely create environments where people feel safe to think, challenge, and grow, while also being held accountable to share a mission. Right? So, I don't like working for leaders that are know-it-all and if you don't follow exactly their, their rules, then you know you're not gonna win. And then it's always about your, who are you in your next sale? And don't listen to the people who are forward facing, their feedback, and able to pivot. [00:11:42] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. That's, that's great. That, and I, I definitely know what you mean-- know-it-all and it's my way or the highway, and not usually, not very pleasant to work with. [00:11:53] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah. [00:11:54] Lindsey Dinneen: Okay, so let's talk about STRIPES. What made you realize there was a gap, a need for this organization, and how did all of that come about? [00:12:07] Lisa Jacobs: So I was getting, I was teaching some courses at Medical Sales College and speaking there, and I was getting an outpouring of women on LinkedIn asking for advice and asking for help, not only from med device school, but from other women who are trying to become the Area Director or VP of Sales and were hitting some roadblocks. So, I really felt compelled to help, but I didn't have the bandwidth to help. So, at the time I brought a bunch of girls, I worked together in a room and said, "Guys, I have this idea." And I think half of them thought I was crazy. And, you know, "Lisa, you don't have time to do this." But it was really important to me to give back to a career that gave so much to me. And I know there's a unique set of problems and situations that women have in medtech that. It's not always comfortable to speak to either a coworker or a male counterpart about, so I wanted to create a safe place where we could learn, grow, and network together. And I got very tired of hearing women say, "You know, I didn't get that job because it's a good old boys network at a good old boys club." So change it. Let's do something about it and let's do it. Let's do it better. So that was the reason for STRIPES. [00:13:25] Lindsey Dinneen: Nice. Okay. That's excellent. And like you said, very needed. So I'm so thankful, you know, you've, you've put love into the organization. Alright, so you host monthly networking events, virtual and sometimes in person, right? [00:13:41] Lisa Jacobs: Right. Live networking events across the country. Yep. [00:13:44] Lindsey Dinneen: Okay. Uh, So I definitely wanna hear a little bit about those and maybe some of the impact that has that you have already seen happen, 'cause the organization is how old now? [00:13:55] Lisa Jacobs: About two years. [00:13:56] Lindsey Dinneen: Oh, nice. [00:13:58] Lisa Jacobs: We have 3000 members. So, grew really fast, which was great. But what, so we offer mentorship programs. So you can be a mentor or mentee. We have what we call WIne Down Wednesdays, which is really a networking event where we talk about anything that anyone is in the group, whether they're interviewing or looking for a job or negotiating a contract or just need a safe place to talk through a issue that they're having at work. Then we also have Women in Career Transition. This kind of happened organically. We had office hours and there was a group of women who were always joining who were looking for jobs and wanted help by recruiters, by resume writers. So we evolved that group. And we have live networking events around the country. And then we have a monthly webinar for education. So that's what we currently offer. And we just opened a Slack channel where people can network together and we're having a bunch of different books and different clubs join as well. So we are, we're growing rapidly and the goal for '27 is to have one big national meeting together. [00:15:08] Lindsey Dinneen: Ooh. Oh, I'm so excited about that. That's great. Excellent. Well, yeah, it, that is no small feat to grow it so quickly and clearly there's, there's a need for it and a hunger for it. So that's excellent. And I am wondering, with your webinars, what kinds of topics have you covered that you've realized, you know, "Oh goodness, we we really needed to tackle this." [00:15:30] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah. One was about communication style. So speaking with confidence is one actually that we're having this Thursday. We're bringing it back. One was about contract negotiation that women you know, really need to understand how to negotiate shares, how to negotiate time off, and we don't get a lot of understanding of once you get to a certain level how to negotiate those type of scenarios, right, with different shares and equity and what it means. Something I wish I knew younger. So, and then we also are having some webinars. Omar talked about building your brand and who you are. So those are some of the big ones. But I realize I didn't answer your previous question of what has it brought to some women, and we've seen women, a lot of women get hired, change careers drastically, and open their own consulting. Seeing people who were in sales go into product management and understand, you know, what classes and what education they needed to have. And people who were always scared to post on social media about building their brand and who they are. So it's been really beautiful to see the evolution of some of our, and the testimonials from some of our women. We also have people who are breaking into med device and finding jobs through others. So, it's been a beautiful evolution. [00:16:54] Lindsey Dinneen: Oh, that's exciting. Yeah. Oh, I love those stories And and it sounds to me like, or one of the things that I've kind of observed is, is even to your point of showing up on LinkedIn, I think that there's some of the women that I know are part of the network, uh, I follow, they are continuously, I feel like becoming more and more confident in how they speak. And it's really fun to see even that evolution too. And, I, I am, and those are things that you talk about too, in the, the Wine Down Wednesdays, right, where we, you know, you can kind of tackle some of those if you're feeling a little anxious about it, maybe get some advice from someone who's confident in that. [00:17:34] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah. Absolutely. Yeah. [00:17:37] Lindsey Dinneen: Okay, um, I, so it was I, I really enjoyed reading some, um, recommendations that are on your LinkedIn profile, and there were a couple of things that's kind of stood out to me. So, one person said that he particularly appreciated your "resiliency, character, and performance in leadership" and I'd love to hear a little bit about that. The other, another one that I, that stood out was that you were the "definition of integrity," and those are beautiful endorsements. And so I'm wondering where did your, you know, character development, integrity, focus, resiliency, where did that all come from and develop? [00:18:18] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah, I think that I changed becoming a mother, and I was a single mom for many years when I started my career in med device, and I wanted to be a huge role model to my sons. So I think that my integrity and trying to always be honest and be the best person I can, especially in such a competitive environment in spine and orthopedics, really I wanted to stand out in a different way and it truly is the root core of who I am. So I do believe in building things that matter, doing things the right way, even if it takes longer, and building that trust and relationships. And I think that's why I've had such a wonderful career and have so many friendships, you know, with that. And when, and the resilient-- I don't think I've even read these recommendations, so thank you for bringing 'em to me-- and being resilient. You know, when I was a VP of Sales, I went through Hurricane Ian lost everything I had, and we were going through a really hard financial time at the time, and I think that you just have to get up and keep on moving and keep on going. And I think a true character is showed in tough times and a true leader keeps on leading in those tough times. So, again, being a mom, I think, you know, my boys are my everything. They're the my reason. So I always wanted to be a good person for them. [00:19:50] Lindsey Dinneen: I love that. Yeah, and I think you're absolutely right. Character is developed and tested during some of the toughest seasons. [00:20:00] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah. [00:20:00] Lindsey Dinneen: But, but when you can come out of them on the other side, and also, I don't know if you agree with this or not, but one thing that I've personally found when you're looking back, and it can be tempting to kind of have the "why me," you know, sort of feeling and if, yeah, can, if you can look at a situation or a season and go, "Yes, but I also learned X, Y, and Z," or "I built my resilience up," or "I, you know, learned that I actually can handle," and I think one thing for me too is that, without getting too far off the subject here, is that it builds empathy for others. Yeah. Then you're, you're more able to say, "I understand what this is like." And think that that makes a huge difference as a leader specifically? [00:20:55] Lisa Jacobs: Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. And then always, yeah, staying humble. [00:20:59] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yeah. [00:21:00] Lisa Jacobs: You know, because you can have a really successful career and things that of your control can happen and you could, you know, next year we may not be the same. So I think you always have to be humble, as well. [00:21:14] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Uh, Yes. Humble, resilient, character led. [00:21:20] Lisa Jacobs: Yeah. [00:21:21] Lindsey Dinneen: Makes for a good leader. Excellent. Okay, pivoting the conversation a little bit just for fun. Imagine that you were to be offered a million dollars to teach a masterclass on anything you want. It could be within your industry, but it doesn't have to be. What would you choose to teach? [00:21:37] Lisa Jacobs: I think I would teach a masterclass on building confidence through competence. I think so many people, especially women, are taught to seek confidence first, and in reality, confidence comes by mastering hard things, making decisions, and surviving failure. I would teach how to build technical, financial, and strategic competence so that confidence becomes natural byproduct, and you don't have to fake it. I don't like the term "you fake it until you make it." I think it's quite the opposite. You have to go through the trenches to gain that confidence. So, there's no easy path. You have to go through it. [00:22:19] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. And-- well, first of all, that would be a great masterclass. And secondly, I think when you go through it too, again, you are also, how do I put this, building up the sort of credibility within not just your own mind, which I think does help build confidence, but with others as well. So love that. Okay. And then how do you wish to be remembered after you leave this world? [00:22:46] Lisa Jacobs: I wanna be remembered for being compassion and opening doors for other people who didn't see in themselves characters that, and qualities that they had. You know, whether it's through my work in med device by creating change and creating better platforms, but helping people step into their potential because I was willing to stand in their corner is what I wanna be remembered for. [00:23:13] Lindsey Dinneen: That is beautiful. That's a wonderful legacy. Love that. Yes. And you're already doing it all the time, through STRIPES and through your other mentorship and love that so much. Oh, excellent. All right. And then final question, what is one thing that makes you smile every time you see or think about it? [00:23:32] Lisa Jacobs: My sons, Kent and Ryan, you know, especially now that they're in college, one just graduated. I don't get to see them as often, so they were here for the holidays and just hearing their voice or seeing them just makes me smile. [00:23:46] Lindsey Dinneen: I love that. I, I wondered if that was gonna be your answer when you were talking about them earlier. Excellent. Excellent. Well, this has been a fantastic conversation, Lisa. Thank you so much for joining, and thank you for just everything you're doing to leave the world a little bit better than you found it. I think a lot better. I just wish you the most continued success as you work to change lives for a better world. And we are so honored to be making a donation in your honor and as a thank you for your time today to Safe Horizon, which is the largest victim service organization in the country. Every year, over 250,000 people seek safety through their services. So thank you for choosing that organization to support. [00:24:32] Lisa Jacobs: Thank you so much. It's been a pleasure. [00:24:34] Lindsey Dinneen: Absolutely. Thank you. [00:24:37] Dan Purvis: The Leading Difference is brought to you by Velentium Medical. Velentium Medical is a full service CDMO, serving medtech clients worldwide to securely design, manufacture, and test class two and class three medical devices. Velentium Medical's four units include research and development-- pairing electronic and mechanical design, embedded firmware, mobile app development, and cloud systems with the human factor studies and systems engineering necessary to streamline medical device regulatory approval; contract manufacturing-- building medical products at the prototype, clinical, and commercial levels in the US, as well as in low cost regions in 1345 certified and FDA registered Class VII clean rooms; cybersecurity-- generating the 12 cybersecurity design artifacts required for FDA submission; and automated test systems, assuring that every device produced is exactly the same as the device that was approved. Visit VelentiumMedical.com to explore how we can work together to change lives for a better world.

Jan. 30, 2026- The Trump administration has jeopardized millions of dollars used by nonprofits in New York for shelter serving the homeless, including survivors of domestic violence. We discuss this precarious situation with Michael Polenberg of Safe Horizon.

Not every toxic relationship looks like yelling or chaos. Sometimes, it's the constant guilt, the gaslighting, or feeling like you're never enough.Toxic relationships aren't always loud. If you're walking on eggshell or waiting for the other shoe to drop. That isn't normal.If they twist your words, isolate you, or make you question your worth. That's not love, and it's not healthy.Toxic relationships can happen anywhere, at home, with friends, even at work.You deserve relationships that feel safe and peaceful. Healing starts when you stop blaming yourself and start setting boundaries.Control isn't love. You're not overreacting.You deserve peace. You are not alone.If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe and God bless!Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

I'm talking about Intermittent Explosive Disorder or IED today. .It's more than just anger. It's sudden, violent, and can be unpredictable. When it's used as control, it becomes abuse.I know how confusing that can be — because my ex-husband was diagnosed with IED. He said the medication made him better… until he used it as a threat. “If you make me mad, I won't take my meds.”That wasn't love — it was control. Mental illness can explain behavior, but it never excuses harm.In today's episode I'll dive into what I learned about IED in adults and helping children that you may suspect have this. Because understanding helps us heal… but safety must always come first! Please reach out to a licensed mental health professional for a proper diagnosis. Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunstFind help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Today we're talking about safe storytelling, breaking stigma, and how to support voices that deserve to be heard. Because every voice creates change.Silence protects abusers. Speaking out empowers survivors. Every time a survivor shares their truth the cycle of shame starts to break.You don't have to share everything to break your silence. It can start with a whisper, a journal entry, a trusted friend, a support group.Every story told safely chips away at the stigma that keeps survivors quiet. Because when one voice rises, others find the courage to do the same.Heart to Heart- Find the group here: Giving with Purpose. Santa Stockings drive https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19kcc87x63/If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe and God bless!Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Abuse thrives on shame — but survivors are not to blame. If you've ever felt guilty for leaving, or ashamed for what happened, please know those feelings aren't yours to carry.They come from manipulation and control, not truth. Abusers want survivors to believe it was their fault, but it never was.You did what you had to do to survive. That takes courage!So what can you do to help? Start with self-compassion.Say to yourself:“I understand why I stayed.”“I'm proud of myself for leaving.”“I deserve peace.”Each kind word to yourself helps release the shame they put there. Healing starts when shame and guilt is released.Take a few minutes today to journal:What would I say to comfort the version of me who stayed?Remember you are worthy of love, safety, and freedom .If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Today, I'm diving into an often not understood. Survivors can be pushed to a breaking point to where they think they are the abuser, take the blame, and/or feel crazy! This can look like:The abuser using emotional, mental, and physical abuse until the survivor is pushed to react. I'll share tips and more on today's episode!If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

It can be hard to understand why someone would stay in a toxic relationship. I have heard people say:She/he must like it! I don't understand why she/he won't just leave!How stupid is she/he for staying! He/she is so wonderful! Why are they not happy/lying about how "bad" he/she is?!What happens behind closed doors is a mystery. Almost every family and relationship has secrets and poor behaviors are passed down from generation to generation and that can funnel down to intimate relationships. It maybe hard to wrap your mind around why someone stays if you have never been in this situation. I'm diving into why they stay on today's episode. Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Today's episode is a bit about me and how Hope when there was none was created. I do discuss some deep topics in this episode. I am putting a trigger warning on this.If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

On today's episode I'll dive into how to help a Survivor. If you know someone being abused, how you respond matters. Here are a few tips:Believe them—don't question or blame.Don't pressure them to leave; support their choices.Offer resources, not ultimatums.Be a safe, non-judgmental listener.If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Domestic violence affects the whole family. You may see emotional and behavioral impact on children. There is the stress of waiting for the other shoe to drop, trust issues, and intergenerational cycles of abuse. This and more in today's episode. If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

After abuse, it's easy to feel broken, but you are whole and healing. Self-love as a foundation for recovery. Take baby steps and try, journaling, affirmations, or finding a safe community. Beginning the healing journey is one of many steps to reclaiming who you are and establishing boundaries. Healing begins with valuing yourself. Try one self-love practice today.If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Leaving an abusive situation takes planning but on the flipside you may not have that time, so what can you do? Grab pen and paper, a comfy chair, and listen in to today's episode!If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

What are warning signs should you look for in a relationship? Maybe you think that you are imagining things or just being overdramatic. Knowing and learning to trust yourself is a big part of recognizing healthy relationships. I dive into things to look out for no matter what type of relationship you are in with someone that has questionable behavior. From Gaslighting to Isolating these are just a few topics I will be discussing.If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

It's day 2 of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. "Unseen Wounds- A look into the other faces of abuse". Domestic violence isn't only hitting—it shows up in many forms:1. Physical abuse 2. Emotional & Psychological Abuse3. Sexual Abuse4. Financial/Economic Abuse5. Digital Abuse 6. Elder Abuse 7. Immigration-Related Abuse8. Religious/Spiritual Abuse9. Child Abuse 10. Teen Dating Violence If something here feels familiar, know you're not alone. Help is out there! Local and national resources (e.g., National DV Hotline: 800-799-7233)If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

October is domestic abuse awareness month and I'll be coming on for the next 31 days to talk about all things related to abuse. In today's episode I'm going to break down common myths and facts of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and you need help message privately for national contact info for help. Stay safe! Someone out there needs to know they are not alone and that they can survive. Perhaps you are a parent or friend of someone trapped in an abusive relationship and need to know how to help. My goal is to share awareness, offer empowerment, and educate others about emotional traumas and domestic abuse. Here I will share my story and also stories of courage and healing from Survivors, Coaches, to Therapists/Counselors.Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/.../national-global...⁠Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

I'm diving into news about re-releasing my books, my healing journey, and details about June 20,2026 retreat! Find out about this and more on today's episode. Join me for coffee on June 21st! Details here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1378681035089?aff=oddtdtcreatorHere is a link to the books I discussed: No Bad Parts- https://a.co/d/5obocJASomatic Internal Family Systems Therapy- https://a.co/d/264Q7jfThe Energy Codes- https://a.co/d/6yKAHpySelf-Help: This Is Your Chance to Change Your Life- https://a.co/d/ijZsSEJFind me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0#narcissist #domesticviolenceawareness #toxicrelationships #domesticabuseawareness

What does healing trauma look like?Here are a few things you may experience while going through your healing journey. Have you experienced any of these?Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0#narcissist #domesticviolenceawareness #toxicrelationships #domesticabuseawareness

I will put on a trigger warning. Not that I was too graphic but just in case. This is a car version podcast and there is no video. I didn't want that distraction while driving. As always, please do something for you on your healing journey today. Whether it is to journal, talk with a friend, watch a funny movie, get out and exercise, create something, or dig out your bible. I share a bit of my recent memories that bubbled up the surface! After listening into today's broadcast, do you recognize any of these in your own life?Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0#narcissist #domesticviolenceawareness #toxicrelationships #domesticabuseawareness

As a side note, I reference "she" but men can also be survivors in an abusive situation. Apps ideas mentioned here can be found here: https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/mobile-apps-for-victims-and-survivorsIf you need to talk feel free to message me privately.After listening into today's broadcast, do you recognize any of these in your own life?Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠Find help and info here-National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizationsSexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0#narcissist #domesticviolenceawareness #toxicrelationships #domesticabuseawareness

The episode, recorded live at Shoptalk in the Berns Communications Group media room, opens with Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc surveying a broad sweep of headline-grabbing developments in the retail world. They highlight continued uncertainty around recently imposed tariffs and resulting economic ripples, as major international trade disputes stoke inflationary concerns. Stock market volatility factors heavily into the conversation, with the co-hosts noting how certain retail sectors—particularly home furnishings and high-end goods—may feel the pinch as shoppers tighten budgets.  Target's declining foot traffic draws focus as the hosts weigh whether brand controversies or stiff competition might be to blame. Next meet Barrie Scardina, President, Americas Retail Services at Cushman & Wakefield, who brings a fresh perspective born of decades in the retail industry. Her vantage point on commercial real estate challenges the traditional narrative of a “retail apocalypse.” She explains how, despite headlines about store closings, overall U.S. vacancy rates are incredibly low—largely because new construction has slowed and new types of tenants (from wellness providers to entertainment concepts) are snapping up available space. Barrie describes a rising tide of “experiential” retail, with everything from boutique fitness and medtail services to immersive brand pop-ups fueling a renewed sense of purpose in physical locations. She underscores how mixed-use developments and adaptive reuse—especially of outdated mall anchor spots—are revitalizing communities and increasing foot traffic. By blending residential, office, dining, and retail, these centers offer a lifestyle-oriented experience that resonates with modern shoppers. Ultimately, Barrie's insights challenge conventional wisdom, suggesting that success in retail real estate hinges on tapping into evolving consumer demands, fostering a community connection, and creating spaces that balance function with memorable experience. AboutBarrie Scardina joined global real estate solutions firm Cushman & Wakefield as Executive Managing Director and Head of Retail Services, Americas, in November of 2019, leading brokerage teams to deliver optimal solutions to retailers and brands. In 2022, Barrie was elevated to the role of Regional President, Northeast, leading brokerage and services across all service lines. In 2023, she took on the challenge of President of Americas Retail Services, Agency Leasing and Alliances, partnering across office, industrial and retail to provide nuanced client solutions. Barrie is consistently focused on delivering value to clients by serving as a trusted advisor and incorporating data, analytics, and business valuation as part of her strategies. This unique approach to client relationships ensures that the firm delivers against client goals, optimizing outcomes and mitigating risk. Barrie is results-oriented and remains focused on transforming the real estate landscape by strategically driving revenue, identifying operational efficiencies, and growing profitability. Prior to her appointment at Cushman & Wakefield, Barrie spent three decades leading vital retail initiatives across a variety of world-class organizations, including Polo Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, The Children's Place and Tory Burch. She brings more than 15 years of executive experience to her current role with the firm, including expertise in creating long-range strategies, business forecasting, omni-channel inventory management, and system implementation and integration. Most recently, Barrie was with Calvin Klein, where she led the company's North American Retail Division as President, setting strategic direction for merchandising, consumer experience and operational improvements. Throughout her career, Barrie has focused on mentoring and developing talent and creating cultures that foster collaboration and equality. She is the executive sponsor for Cushman & Wakefield's Women's Integrated Network and serves on two diversity committees focused on improving the employee experience.AffiliationsGraduate of the Wharton School of Business' Philips Van Heusen Global Leadership Program (2017)Board Member of Safe Horizon (2017-2019)Member of Women's Retail Leadership Circle (WRLC)Member of the International Council for Shopping Centers (ICSC)Member of CHIEF Private Women's NetworkExecutive Sponsor of Cushman & Wakefield's Women's Integrated Network National ChapterMember of CREW NY; Participant at National levelRecognized by Globe St. as a Woman of Influence (2020) About UsSteve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

From Oakland, California with Mexican roots, Crystal Rosas has solidified herself as one of the top and sought after talents in radio and entertainment. Rosas hosts the coveted afternoon slot, weekdays from 2pm- 6pm on the World Famous Z100 in New York City. You can also catch her hosting the nationally syndicated show “The New Hitlist” every night on 150+ iHeart Radio stations. Ryan Seacrest invites her to celebrate Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve live from Times Square on ABC and she is frequently a feature on “Good Day New York” on Fox 5. Crystal has been recognized by the Gracie Women in Media Organization for making inspirational contributions as a woman in media. She also actively works with Safe Horizon, a nonprofit organization that provides social services for victims of abuse and violent crime throughout the five boroughs of New York City. Crystal's mission is to spread love, laughter, and realness. Her weekly podcast “Crystal's Nightcap” has over half a million downloads and you can stream it on the iHeartRadio app and all other audio sharing platforms. With over 250k followers on all platforms, see what she's up to everyday on all socials she's @LaCrystalRosas. https://www.instagram.com/lacrystalrosas/ https://linktr.ee/Lacrystalrosas?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabttp8fb5SVik3j9RvwPpmHZwG7diJdzodfIrdsOqyDc7lful6H-PXLnxs_aem_j8tBGNJmAkqAATU-YuBQDw

What is Financial abuse? It's deeper than you think! It can look like: Giving an allowance to your partner with accountability for all of it. Not allowing your partner to have his/her name on any credit cards, banking, or loans. Not sharing decision making with your partner pertaining to financial issues. This and more in today's episode. After listening into today's broadcast, do you recognize any of these in your own life? Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠ Find help and info here- National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠ Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠ ⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠ https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠ Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠ Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠ Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453 National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melinda-j-kunst/support

I'm digging into Emotional abuse on today's episode! Here's what it can look like: Emotional abuse- The abuser's psychological or mental violence can include anything that impacts the mental health and well being of their partner. Examples- name calling, insults, put downs crazy making, blaming the victim for everything jealousy, unfounded accusations of cheating intimidation shaming, humiliation socially isolating the victim from friends and family getting angry if a victim does not immediately return calls needing to know where the victim is at all times following the victim without their knowledge stalking After listening into today's broadcast, do you recognize any of these in your own life? Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠ Find help and info here- National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠ Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠ ⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠ https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠ Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠ Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melinda-j-kunst/support

Abuse can happen between anyone. Whether this is between you and a family member, friend or intimate partner. Answer me this: Do you make excuses for this persons poor behavior? Do you dread seeing them or feel exhausted with them or after seeing them? Is there always the same excuse for why they hurt you? Does this person say that "they" are the victim? If this person makes you cry, intimidates you, or hurts your feeling more than once a month this is a RED flag. More in today's episode. Stay safe and God bless! After listening into today's broadcast, do you recognize any of these in your own life? Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠ Find help and info here- National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠ Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠ ⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠ https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠ Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠ Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠ Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453 National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melinda-j-kunst/support

With any one of these there can use the tactics of - isolating the victim, creating a dependency with the abuser, or may have other mental health issues. Can cause victim to become depressed, have a breakdown, or commit suicide. A proper diagnosis needs to be from a licensed Counselor or Therapist. Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠ Find help and info here- National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠ Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠ ⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠ https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠ Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠ Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠ Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453 National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melinda-j-kunst/support

*Trigger warning!* Sexual abuse can be hard to talk about. Victims can experience a wide range of unwanted assaults. It may become difficult for a victim to develop trust with intimate partners. Here are a few examples of what it can look like. If you relate to any of these please contact a shelter, counselor, or law enforcement. If you need to talk I am happy to hold space for you. After listening into today's broadcast, do you recognize any of these in your own life? Find me here- ⁠https://linktr.ee/melindajkunst⁠ Find help and info here- National Domestic Violence Hotline- ⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠ Safe Horizon- ⁠https://www.safehorizon.org/⁠ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/⁠ ⁠https://internationalwomenshouse.org/get-help⁠ https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/international-domestic-violence-resources/ ⁠https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations Sexual Assault Hotline- ⁠https://www.rainn.org/⁠ Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS) provides advocacy services for Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ⁠http://www.adwas.org/⁠ Suicide prevention- ⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/⁠ Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453 National Center on Elder Abuse- ⁠https://ncea.acl.gov/suspectabuse#gsc.tab=0 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melinda-j-kunst/support

Send us a Text Message.Join the conversation as Angela Torregoza, a New York City-based immigration attorney with a personal immigration story, shares her expertise on the lifeline that is the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the intricacies of family petitions. Angela's own journey fuels her passion for guiding clients through the complexities of immigration law, and in this episode, she offers a beacon of hope for those feeling entrapped in abusive relationships. Discover how VAWA can be the key to a new beginning, enabling abused foreign nationals to seek permanent residency and escape the shadows of manipulation and control.The challenges facing immigrant individuals in abusive situations are daunting, but there are steps one can take and resources available that can make all the difference. Angela walks us through the process of safeguarding important documents and crafting a safety plan, while highlighting the sanctuary that embassies can provide. We also delve into the evidence required for successful immigration applications, from psychological evaluations to personal affidavits, and discuss how to navigate the system without re-traumatization. It's an eye-opening look at the victim-centered approach of the immigration system and the community support that can pave the way to independence.Empowerment and recovery are core themes as Angela underscores the importance of community resources like Safe Horizon and Legal Aid Society for those without financial means. Learn about the emotional support offered by support groups and therapy, and how documenting experiences of abuse can be approached with sensitivity and care. We wrap up with a call to action for raising awareness of VAWA's provisions, not only to aid victims but also to foster understanding and support within the community. This episode is not just an informative session, but a heartfelt guide through the path to recovery and autonomy for those most vulnerable.

In conversation with Tamala Edwards, anchor, 6abc Action News morning edition. Tamron Hall is the Emmy Award-winning host and executive producer of the eponymous program Tamron Hall, ABC Disney's second longest running nationally syndicated talk show. Also the host of Deadline: Crime with Tamron Hall on Investigation Discovery, she formerly served as an anchor for Today, the host of MSNBC Live with Tamron Hall, and a national news correspondent for NBC. While at NBC, she earned a 2015 Edward R. Murrow Award for her reportage on domestic abuse. Hall also partnered with Safe Horizon to launch The Tamron Renate Fund, which aids victims and families affected by domestic violence. A sequel to her 2022 bestselling crime fiction novel As the Wicked Watch, Watch Where They Hide follows intrepid journalist Jordan Manning as she uncovers the truth about a missing young mother. Because you love Author Events, please make a donation to keep our podcasts free for everyone. THANK YOU! The views expressed by the authors and moderators are strictly their own and do not represent the opinions of the Free Library of Philadelphia or its employees. (recorded 3/15/2024)

ABOUT TAMRON HALL AND HER BOOK WATCH WHERE THEY HIDE: A Jordan Manning NovelWATCH WHERE THEY HIDE is the upcoming new novel from Emmy Award-winning TV host and journalist, Tamron Hall.An impressive follow-up to her acclaimed 2021 debut, As the Wicked Watch, Hall's forthcoming novel follows the gripping journey of journalist, Jordan Manning, who delves into the case of a mother in danger and uncovers a sinister web of secrets that could lead right to the missing woman-or put Jordan in the crosshairs of her abductors. With over 20 years of journalism experience, years spent reporting on crime and tragedies across the country, and her own personal experiences, Tamron is in the perfect position to pen this page-turning thriller.ABOUT THE BOOK: After dropping her child off at preschool, Marla Hancock, a stay-at-home mother, disappears. She had recently left her verbally abusive husband in Kentucky and moved in with her sister, Shelly, who simply can't believe that her sister would ever willingly vanish without her children. But with limited support from the town's police department or media resources, Shelly fears that Marla's disappearance won't get the attention it deserves, or worse, will go unsolved. So, several weeks after filing a missing person's report, she reaches out to TV journalist Jordan Manning for help. After her investigative and reporting skills helped solve multiple murders, Jordan Manning's career in the newsroom is on the rise. She has gained a reputation as more than your typical news reporter: a "fixer" with a vigilante edge, dogged and undeterred to seek the truth. But even with this new status, Jordan still feels pressure to prove herself as a young Black professional. When Shelly reaches out, she feels compelled to do all she can to find Marla. Jordan's search twists and turns in ways she could never have imagined, illuminating scandals and secrets that place her own life in grave danger.TAMRON HALL BIOTwo-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and author Tamron Hall is Executive Producer and host of the nationally syndicated talk show Tamron Hall. Tamron Hall is currently the second longest-running Disney-produced syndicated talk show and continues to be one of television's highest-rated daytime shows. Tamron's extensive resume also includes hosting Deadline: Crime with Tamron Hall on Investigation Discovery, TODAY and MSNBC Live with Tamron Hall. She received the 2015 Edward R. Murrow Award for her segment on domestic violence as part of TODAY's Shine A Light series. An outspoken advocate for shedding light on domestic abuse, Hall has partnered with Safe Horizon to launch The Tamron ❤ Renate Fund in honor of her sister to help victims and families affected by domestic violence.Get her book today: https://a.co/d/a7DTSU4Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

EPISODE SUMMARY: Research consistently supports the value of taking a trauma-informed approach to reduce re-traumatization, improve outcomes, and foster trust and collaboration between professionals, children, and families. In this episode, Kristina Coleman, LMSW, MPA, joins co-hosts Tony DeVincenzo and Ilana Lezama-Beausejour to discuss the intergenerational trauma approach and working with families of color. Throughout their conversation, Kristina shares insights into some of the life experiences of past generations and their impact on the present day. The discussion explores ways professionals can shift their mindset and practices to better serve and support families of color. Topics in this episode: Definitions (4:04) Intergenerational trauma approach (9:02) Working with families of color (11:33) Life experiences and Intergenerational Trauma (17:00) Understanding history (20:30) Enhance professional skills (28:37) Recommendations (37:48) Organization support for workers of color (39:35) GUEST: Kristina Coleman LMSW, MPA, is the Vice President of Child Advocacy and Mental Health Programs at Safe Horizon the nation's largest victim service agency, and the Founder/CEO of youRmore counseling & services. She has served in the social services for over 14 years specializing in child welfare, family reunification, trauma treatment, mental health, program implementation, development, and non-profit leadership. Kristina holds a master's degree in social work leadership from Hunter College and a Master of Public Administration from Mercy University. She has held multiple roles at both the direct service and leadership level. Kristina provides training and consulting around engagement and mental health practices for families of color and the impact intergenerational trauma. Through her teachings she aims to reform systems and create true diversity, equity, and inclusion. She believes if people want to see real change, they must first understand history. Kristina serves as a board member for the National Association of Social Workers NYC Chapter, The New York State Children Alliances, Center for Safety and Change, and the YMCA OF Rockland.  RECOMMENDED RESOURCES: Spare the Kids: Why Whupping Children Won't Save Black America by Stacey Patton: https://a.co/d/ajfCyNa Black Families in Therapy: Understanding the African American Experience by Nancy Boyd-Franklin: https://a.co/d/6oDQVZD My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem: https://a.co/d/aoKr01r Virtues and Values: The African and African American Experience by Peter J. Paris: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0800636619?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_JMZG1C5GGNV3M6Y1Y4G9  Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We're Not Hurting by Terrie M. Williams: https://a.co/d/21aQAaj Connect with Kristina Coleman at Kristina.Coleman@safehorizon.org Safe Horizon: https://www.safehorizon.org Northeast Regional Children's Advocacy Center: https://www.nrcac.org Regional Children's Advocacy Centers: https://www.regionalcacs.org Have an idea for a future Team Talk guest or topic? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestions to Tony DeVincenzo at tony@nrcac.org. Disclaimer: This project was sponsored by NRCAC from Grant Award Number 15PJDP-22-GK-03061-JJVO awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, OJJDP or NRCAC. 

In this episode, we discuss DeepMind's proactive approach to AGI safety by establishing a specialized organization. We explore the significance of this move in the broader context of AI ethics and safety research. Invest in AI Box: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Republic.com/ai-box⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Get on the AI Box Waitlist: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://AIBox.ai/⁠⁠

Feb. 7, 2024 - Child advocacy centers, which serve kids who are victims of abuse and neglect, have seen relatively flat funding for years, despite increased demand for services. Michael Polenberg, vice president of government affairs for Safe Horizon, explains what could be accomplished by doubling the governor's proposed investment.

December 4, 2023 - We discuss the impact of the Adult Survivors Act and consider whether the time for bringing old lawsuits from sexual abuse allegations should be extended, with Michael Polenberg, vice president of government affairs for Safe Horizon.

This week we're raising awareness for Safe Horizon in Manhattan: https://www.safehorizon.org/mysafehorizon/ - YOU'RE INVITED TO THE BREAK UP BREAK DOWN BRUNCH: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/break-up-break-down-brunch-sept-23rd-tickets-667893356007?aff=oddtdtcreator / Use promo code HOTGOSS10 for 10% off! (This promo code expires 08/30) - Submit a break up story/couple: https://forms.gle/ATdabGFwyy7tEx3W8 - Follow the podcast! - Abby's IG: https://www.instagram.com/theabbymurphy/ - Abby's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theabbymurphy/ - The Break Up Break Down on IG: https://www.instagram.com/breakupbreakdownpodcast/ - Submit Feedback: https://forms.gle/jZcG5YPcBqPyNxEz9 - Timestamps: - (00:00): Episode Intro - (04:02): How they met/the early relationship - (07:25): The first signs of infidelity - (15:16): How he handles the first confrontation - (23:39): The aftermath of the second bout of infidelity - (27:45): Reflecting on the mistress' part in it - (30:18): Reflecting on her ex's part in it - (35:17): Reflecting on why she was in this relationship - (39:24): How TikTok impacted her break up - (44:11): Advice she'd give after this experience - (45:34): Teaser Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EPISODE SUMMARY:  Child Advocacy Centers and Multidisciplinary teams are not immune from the race, power, and privilege that shapes the way we each experience the world. At Safe Horizon, the organization that operates the five CACs throughout New York City, the Racial Healing Response Team (RHRT) program has been implemented to address the racial harm that staff members may experience in the workplace. With the goal of offering staff support and healing, the RHRT responds in a variety of ways that center on respect, relationships, and community care. In this episode, Tony speaks with Dr. Lisa O'Connor and Dorcas Miller with Safe Horizon. They walk us through the planning and implementation of its Racial Healing Response Team – an intentional response to situations between staff that have caused racial harm and the facilitation of healing.   GUESTS: Dr. Lisa A. O'Connor was promoted to the roles of Deputy CEO and Chief Program Officer as of March 2021. Lisa joined Safe Horizon in 2013 as the Deputy Chief Program Officer and was later promoted to Chief Program Officer. She is a psychologist by training and has spent most of her career in service to children and families impacted by violence. During her time at Safe Horizon, Lisa has led efforts to address the needs of young men of color who have been harmed by violence; implemented client-centered, trauma-informed practices that recognize the impact of racism in the lives of survivors; and led the successful fulfillment of a five-year strategic plan. Lisa is also the Co-Chair of the Racial Healing Response Team and a member of the Anti-Racism Steering Committee at Safe Horizon. Prior to Safe Horizon, Lisa spent almost a decade in child welfare developing and implementing new program models and policies, first as an Assistant Commission at the Administration for Children's Services and later as Vice President for Children and Family Services at the New York Foundling. In these roles, she designed innovative programs that brought evidence-based models to preventive services and for children in foster care and residential placement. She also developed policy and specialized foster care programming to help reduce child welfare's use of residential placements for young people approaching adulthood. Lisa has devoted most of her career to working on behalf of vulnerable populations. She has provided direct service to families in crisis: those experiencing family violence, impacted by poverty, and involved in systems. She received her PhD in Developmental Psychology from Columbia University and a BA in Psychology from Smith College. Dorcas Miller is the Senior Learning Specialist with Safe Horizon who develops and implements training to individual contributors and supervisory staff at Safe Horizon. Dorcas is also the Co-Chair of the Racial Healing Response Team and a member of the Anti-Racism Steering Committee at Safe Horizon. Dorcas' education includes a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in New York, Clinical Pastor Education at Cornell Medical Center, and a BA in Business Administration from Pace University.   RECOMMENDED RESOURCES: Safe Horizon: https://www.safehorizon.org Northeast Regional Children's Advocacy Center: https://www.nrcac.org Regional Children's Advocacy Centers: https://www.regionalcacs.org   Have an idea for a future Team Talk guest or topic? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestions to Tony DeVincenzo at tony@nrcac.org.  Disclaimer: This project was sponsored by NRCAC from Grant Award Number 15PJDP-22-GK-03061-JJVO awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, OJJDP or NRCAC.  

Randy discusses CORE Industrial Partnering Portfolio Company Saylite Acquires Vantage Lighting, LEUKOS to Name New Editor, IESNYC, DLFNY, WILD NYC, and IALD NY Raise $5000 for Safe Horizon at Holiday Party, Dallas Market Center to Host the Largest Residential Lighting Show in the Western Hemisphere, Bill Brown Sales Now Represents Light Tool International to North American Lighting OEMs, Announcing Superflex Representation Expansion and New Warehouse Capability.

A one-year "lookback" window, which will allow adult survivors of sexual assault to sue their abusers in civil court, opens up this week. Liz Roberts, CEO of Safe Horizon, explains what people need to know and what the impact of this new law in New York, the Adult Survivors Act (the “ASA”), might be.

Overcoming financial abuse starts with understanding what it is.  Stacy Francis, certified divorce financial analyst at Francis Financial, says it comes in many different forms.  But all of them can lead to physical abuse. Anyone needing help can call the Domestic Hotline at: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).Safe Horizon is another 24-hour hotline where you can seek help: 800-621-HOPE (4673).And Savvy Ladies is an organization formed by Stacy Francis dedicated to empowering women to take control of their finances by providing a professional network of support & guidance for FREE. You can follow this show on Instagram and on Facebook. And to see what Heather does when she's not talking money, go to her personal Twitter page. Be sure to email Heather your questions and request topics you'd like her to cover here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week features Jimmy Meagher, a Policy Advocate at Safe Horizon. He discusses the numerous resources Safe Horizon offers to domestic violence survivors and the difference between domestic violence shelters run by the Human Resources Administration [HRA] and the Department of Homeless Services [DHS]. Safe Horizons is an organization created to offer Victim assistance. They currently Assist survivors of all forms of violence. They assist survivors of all forms of violence. Some programs include but are not limited to domestic violence shelters, support groups, safety planning, lock replacement, and legal assistance. https://www.safehorizon.org/our-services/what-we-do/ Safe Horizon's 24/7 Hotline: 1800-621-HOPE

(Recorded November 2021) Rosebud Baker can make anything funny. She has jokes about the tragic death of her sister, her own struggles with addiction, and why nurses seem to be a little too cocky. Mike and Rose kick around jokes about what to do when your Uber is filling up with water, how much urine is in a public pool, and why some of us marry our dads. All that, and a story about toasting a U.S. president when she was a kid.Please consider donating to Safe Horizon

@Alovethapoet speaks on how important mental health is after having a life changing experience.Instagram: instagram.com/cozymfboots/ https://www.instagram.com/a.lovethapoet/ https://www.instagram.com/deemobius/Facebook: facebook.com/CozyMFBoots205/Gmail: CozyMFBoots@gmail.comPodcast logo and AAA (awesome ass artiste): instagram.com/astralepitome/Notes:Suicide hotline 800-273-8255 https://pflag.org/hotlines1-800-422-4453, push 1 to talk to a hotline counselor. (Call this number for help if you have been abused, suspect a child or teenager is being sexually abused, or if you are an abuser.) For hearing impaired, call 1-800-222-4523.• National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Can be used to communicate information to the authorities about child pornography or child sex trafficking. Hotline: 1-800-THE-LOST (1800-843-5678) or make a cybertip• List of State Child Abuse and Neglect reporting numbersCrisis Hotlines (also scroll down to see Suicide Hotlines)• Crisis Text Line (U.S.A.): Text CONNECT to 741741. https://www.crisistextline.org/textline/• Crisis Text Line (Canada): Text HOME to 686868 to text with a trained Crisis Responder. https://www.crisistextline.ca/• IMAlive: virtual crisis online chat center https://www.imalive.org/Depression Hotlines• Depression Hotline: 1-630-482-9696Domestic Violence Hotlines• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) – Staffed 24 hours a day by trained counselors who can provide crisis assistance and information about shelters, legal advocacy, health care centers, and counseling.• Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men and Women: 1-888-743-5754 DAHMW.org• STAND Against Domestic Violence Crisis Hotline: 1-888-215-5555Parents Hotlines:• Parent Hotline: 1-800-840-6537. Parent Hotline is a website dedicated to helping families who are in a crisis situation.Self-Injury Hotlines:• 1-800-DONT-CUT (366-8288)Stalking Hotlines:• Crime Victims Hotline: 1-866-689-HELP (4357)• Safe Horizon: 1-800-621-HOPE (4673)• LGBT Youth Suicide Hotline: 1-866-488-7386 OR text “Trevor” to 1-202-304-1200. (Available Tuesday-Friday between 3pm – 9pm EST/12pm – 6pm PT.)• National Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-800-448-4663• Teen Text Line: Text TEEN 839863 Daily from 6pm-9pm PST• Youthline: 1-877-YOUTHLINE (1-877-968-8454)• Youth Development International Crisis Hotline: 1-800-HIT-HOME (1800-448-4663)Warm LinesWarmlines are for when you need someone to talk to but are not in crisis: http://warmline.org/Cool Shit to check out:Street Fighter Mas by Kamasi Washington - https://youtu.be/LdyabrdFMC8

On this week's 51%, we speak with professors Shani Orgad and Rosalind Gill about their new book, Confidence Culture, examining the prominence of confidence and self-help discourse in modern-day marketing, workplaces, relationships — and well, everywhere else. We also discuss a bill in the New York legislature that would give adult survivors of sexual assault the opportunity to look back and sue their abusers. Guests: Dr. Shani Orgad and Dr. Rosalind Gill, authors of Confidence Culture 51% is a national production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio. It's produced by Jesse King. Our executive producer is Dr. Alan Chartock, and our theme is "Lolita" by the Albany-based artist Girl Blue. Follow Along You're listening to 51%, a WAMC production dedicated to women's issues and experiences. Thanks for tuning in, I'm Jesse King. Next week, we're kicking off a series on women in business, which personally I'm pretty excited for — but before we do that, I want to talk about confidence. Oftentimes, when we talk about women in business, there's a lot of focus on how women can better advocate for themselves and step up to the plate. We're supposed to lean in, push ourselves into new territory, break the glass ceiling. To paraphrase some advice Kim Kardashian recently got a lot of heat for — because I can't say the actual quote on the radio — we're supposed to get up and work.  I feel that also applies to the way we look at ourselves in general, too. We're frequently told to love ourselves, work on ourselves, feel comfortable in the skin we're in — all great messages. But I have to be honest: it can be a lot of pressure, and sometimes I don't. Sometimes I look at other go-getters and I'm like, “Man, I wish I could be like that.” Sometimes I don't love the skin, or hair, or clothes that I'm in. It's a lot of work being confident.  Our guests today have spent years looking into this phenomenon, which they call “confidence culture.” Dr. Shani Orgad is a professor of media and communications at the London School of Economics and Political Science, while Dr. Rosalind Gill teaches cultural and social analysis at the City University of London. Their new book — called Confidence Culture — interrogates the way we talk about confidence, and how, in some ways, self-help culture might hold us back.  Why is confidence discourse so prevalent right now? Gill: Well, we talk about it in more depth in the book, and we kind of track it back through self-help literature and self-help culture and the expansion of that, and the way that that's kind of taken off on social media. But we also sort of track it in terms of the global financial crisis, the recession, austerity, the kinds of messages that were more and more individualistic and, at least, very noticeable in the UK – for women to be to be thrifty, to make do and mend, [to] work on themselves, to use what resources they have to kind of hustle, I guess, in culture, most broadly. But we also talk about how it's kind of related to the rise in visibility of feminism. From around sort of 2014, it's been documented that feminism has really become much more visible as a kind of popular movement, and as a discourse across media. And we very much feel that this visibility of feminism has kind of allowed a space for these discourses of confidence to flourish. But of course, it's a very specific kind of feminism. It's a very individualistic feminism, it's not a kind of collective, outward-facing, kind of “changing structures” kind of feminism. It's very much a sort of inward looking, working on yourself to improve your position, kind of an emphasis. How do you see confidence culture working? What are the different parts that come together to create this movement? Gill: I mean, one of the things that was really, really striking to us was that we were working across different areas – like very different areas: the workplace, advertising, you know, “love your body” imagery, sex and relationships. In academic fields, these are spread quite widely, yet, what we're encountering was the same messages, again and again. And it wasn't just that they were the same broad messages, it's actually the same words and phrases that were being used, repeatedly. You know, the sort of “Strike a pose,” “Feel comfortable in your own skin,” “Love yourself,” “Believe in yourself.” And it really felt as if this wasn't just something that was happening in individual areas. It was kind of more than the sum of the parts. Orgad: And so it works through discourse – but we also know that it's very, very important as a visual regime. And again, as Ros mentioned, often through very similar visual imagery. So we identified what we call the “confidence pose,” which is, you know, the kind of Wonder Woman pose where you stand with your feet wide apart, hands on your hips, and so on. And this has been popularized by people like American social psychologist Amy Cuddy, who gave her most popular TED talk about power poses, where she literally shows Wonder Woman as the exemplar of this pose. What we noted is that, visually, this is was a really important signifier of confidence – across advertisements, we looked across women's magazines, business journals, and reports. Again, in different domains and context, you will see the very same visual appearances that signified confidence. We also realized that it's not only discourse and not only kind of a visual regime, but confidence also, importantly, works through emotions, through the affective level. In other words, it's not just about telling women certain things and encouraging them to change the way they think, or the way they look, crucially, but also fundamentally the way they feel. We identified particular aspects, particular emotions that are very much associated with confidence: resilience, positive thinking, gratitude. But crucially, it's also about certain emotions that confidence is not aligned with. For instance, we found how the particular type of confidence that confidence culture encourages, which is very individualized and positive, also often comes and goes hand in hand with prohibiting anger, or prohibiting those feelings that are deemed supposedly “ugly” or “negative.” So don't be bitter, don't be angry – be confident. And finally, we identify the way that confidence culture works also through practices – through not just things that you say, or not just even things that you feel, but also literally through things that you do. So again, it's about how you write emails. In this context. Google launched their “Sorry, Not Sorry” plugin a few years ago, which was addressed, particularly to women, interestingly, not starting your email with, “I'm just writing to…,” “No worries if not,” all these kinds of edits that are particularly, again, addressed to women – because of this assumption that there is some kind of a deficit and this internal defect almost, or these self-inflicted wounds that we should somehow overcome. And partly, were encouraged to overcome through changing our practices, even through changing the way we breathe. We found a range of texts, to our astonishment, that are about how you should retrain, reeducate yourself, how to breathe, in order to become more assertive, to love yourself, and so on. So it's ubiquitous, and that's why we call it “culture,” across very distinct domains, but also across very different realms: the visual, the textual, the emotional, and also the lived practices that we are all kind of engaging in an everyday basis. Your book mentions the popularity of confidence workshops or classes for women in the workplace – which surprised me, I don't think that I have personally come across that yet. It kind of seems strange to me to have it company-sponsored. But can you tell me a little bit more about that? Orgad: Yeah. And I think that is partly what we try to bring through the book, this kind of strangeness to it. To pause, to question things that have become so normalized and accepted. I'm really glad for you that you haven't encountered it, we have encountered them ourselves. But also, since the book has been published, we've been receiving numerous emails and messages on social media from women, who say, “I was sent to one of these courses! Now I understand!” And evidently and importantly, beyond the anecdotal, these are also commercially viable programs that lots of workplaces are signing into. And, you know, sometimes they might not be explicitly called “confidence” – they are sometimes, for instance, under the guise of “leadership.” But then when you look at what they contain, they would be, often in very troublingly gendered ways, directed to encouraging women and trying to help women to build their confidence and so on. And I think it's important for us to say that we do recognize that these are often well-meaning programs, in the same way that we recognize that the body positivity movement and “love your body” messages are and may be well meaning – and indeed may help women, individual women, to feel better about themselves, or to negotiate a pay raise, or to be more assertive in a meeting at work. We don't want to dismiss this. But we are troubled by the way that these programs, confidence coaching and similar kind of programs, are very much individualizing both the problem and the responsibility for fixing the problem. Workplaces invest a lot of money in initiatives that ultimately individualize it to employees, and particularly to women employees, to find the problem, or their internal issues and psychological obstacles, as it were. There are programs, for instance – and these are women-only programs, so in workplaces that are mixed workplaces, women-only programs are designed to help only those women in the work through a range of techniques that they're being taught – it can include things like mindfulness and yoga, things that are to do with your physical kind of confidence, how you project confidence physically, through more kind of psychological work on yourself. Changing the ways you communicate, for instance, in written communication, and so on. One of the interesting things that we noticed during the pandemic is that we were both, like many other people, spending hours on Zoom. And one of the interesting things that flourished during the pandemic is “virtually confident” workshops, which were about teaching people – but again, especially women – how to project confidence on screen. It was found that women, much more than men, tend to touch themselves on screen, and so there were entire programs that Ros and I attended about making yourself aware and, again, how you use your voice and how you project confidence, how you occupy space on the screen, how you position yourself, what background you choose, and so on and so forth. So commercially, they're viable, and they're successful, which also suggests that it's something that there isn't just appetite for it, but a purchase to it. I don't know, if you want to add, Ros. Gill: I think I just wanted to add something about our own ambivalence. And it goes back to something that you said right at the start Jesse, about feeling that you receive a lot of these messages – and just to really, really kind of highlight that we are not critical of confidence messaging, and we're not critical of women who find that messaging productive, helpful in their lives or, you know, beneficial for them to feel better. We confess to having cried at our fair share of Dove adverts and to having kind of adopted many of the confidence practices – both on ourselves, having done these courses, but also trying to encourage our students. We always encourage them, “Take up more space in the room, be bold when speaking at a conference, don't write apologetically,” and everything. So just to really emphasize that our target isn't confidence itself, and it isn't the women that adopt those programs, but it's what the culture does, and the way that it's kind of been placed beyond debate. And it's almost become like a cult in the sense that it's kind of an article of faith that is unquestionable. What would you say are the side effects of the culture? What does it mask over, and what is the effect on those in it? Gill: I think the main things that it does are, first of all, it kind of places all the responsibility and all the blame on women themselves. So it treats it as if this is some kind of pathology, this is some kind of defect, it's some kind of internal deficit. It's something that women lack, and that they have to work on making up for. So it's very blaming as a discourse. There's an example in the book, The Confidence Code, which is, you know, a New York Times bestseller, a very celebrated book – but they talk about women scratching themselves, scratching themselves like babies do, and say that we need to put on the mittens so that we don't scratch ourselves. Which we found to be so troubling, because it's such a infantilizing metaphor. So there's that whole kind of element of blame that is really problematic. And then there's the flip side of that, of like, what's that doing when you kind of put all the responsibility for a lack of confidence, and for gender inequality, on women's shoulders. It's as if we're doing this to ourselves, we put ourselves in this position, rather than looking at the structures and institutions and barriers that actually are in place that are preventing women and other oppressed and marginalized groups from actually making progress. You mentioned earlier the kind of imagery you were noticing in the ads and campaigns you were studying. Did you notice a particular demographic or kind of women who were being targeted to be more confident, or who were most showcased and represented as “confident” in these ads? Gill: We've tried to be really, really attentive to differences across the entire book, and we hope that the book offers a really intersectional feminist analysis of what we're seeing. So we've looked across age, we've looked across race and ethnicity, we've looked across disability and sexuality. I think what we've really tried to problematize, and it comes out most visibly in relation to the advertising, is a kind of faux diversity, in a way, a sort of hollowing out of diversity. At first, we were kind of hopeful that this kind of advertising was going to actually open up space for many more different kinds of women to be shown, who aren't usually the kind of white, middle class, cisgender, able-bodied, women that dominate the visual habitat that we all live in. We did see more diversity, but then we immediately saw that being somehow undercut or undermined with a kind of “one size fits all.” So this sort of sense that, “Well, whatever the problem, whoever the group, there's just one solution” – and it's to be more confident, confidence training programs, something like that. So it's a kind of double-move of recognizing diversity, only to then kind of say, “Well, it doesn't matter.” So what do we do? I mean, how can we help women feel more confident without making them feel like there's pressure on them? Or that there's something wrong with them? Orgad: Yeah, I think it's a really good question. And I would really just reiterate what was said earlier, that we are not against confidence, and we want women to thrive and feel safer and happier and more confident. But we feel really strongly that, at the same time, we need (and by we, we mean not just with women, but crucially as a society) to really think critically about how not just to invest in demanding and encouraging and exhorting women to be more confident and fix the problem as it were themselves, but to think and nourish structural thinking. And so we ended the book, in our conclusion, we call it “Beyond Confidence.” And we're trying to look at examples that perhaps are not entirely outside confidence or against confidence –because again, we are not ourselves against confidence – but that do introduce those things that, as you mentioned before, Jesse, that confidence culture masks and perhaps minimizes or marginalizes. And we talked about what we call “confidence climate” – how can we think about nurturing and building a climate that enables and allows women and everybody and other disempowered groups to feel safer and feel more confident, rather than putting again the onus on individuals to do that work? In this context we bring Lizzo as an interesting example, because she's kind of the self-confidence queen, but at the same time, Lizzo is a really interesting kind of person and persona to think through about what we can do differently. Because she foregrounds, for instance, interdependence, she foregrounds the ways in which she herself, to become confident, is dependent on her family, on her network of friends, on the community who travels with her on her tour. So one way, for instance, that we would want to think about building a climate of confidence is a climate that encourages our dependence on each other, and doesn't deem being dependent on somebody abhorrent or ugly or undesirable. The [current] confidence culture is not about needing help from anybody else, it's about you caring for yourself, because nobody else will. So these are kind of ways that we feel that should come, and we would hope would come, alongside the more kind of individual work that perhaps women can do, or do do – and we would have liked to see workplaces investing more in structural changes that create places and workplaces that are confident workplaces, where employees can thrive as confident beings, rather than sending them on these courses that keep telling them the problem is you, you fix it. Drs. Shani Orgad and Rosalind Gill are the authors of Confidence Culture, out now on Duke University Press. Shani and Rosalind, thanks so much for taking the time. We're gonna switch gears before we head out to recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month - and a warning to those who may be sensitive to the subject. On Thursday, New York state lawmakers joined survivors in Westchester County to call attention to a bill that would give some adult survivors the opportunity to sue their abusers in court. The Adult Survivors Act is similar to the Child Victims Act passed by the legislature in 2019, which gave survivors of childhood sexual abuse a one-year lookback window to sue their abusers, in some cases long after the state's statute of limitations expired. The one-year window was ultimately extended another year due to the coronavirus pandemic. This time, the Adult Survivors Act would open up that opportunity to those who were 18 years or older at the time of their abuse. The bill was passed by the State Senate last year, but it has so far stalled in the Assembly.  It was a blustery Thursday in New York's Hudson Valley, but advocates with the victims assistance nonprofit Safe Horizon still gathered outside the Westchester County Court in White Plains to push for the bill's passage.   State Senator Shelly Mayer, a Democrat from the 37th District, is a co-sponsor of the bill. "This is so basic to our system of laws. We're not talking about criminal penalties here, we're talking about the opportunity to confront your accuser and make a civil claim for damages," says Mayer. "And that is what our systems of laws is based on. The equality of opportunity to assert your claim." Safe Horizon Vice President of Government Affairs Michael Polenberg says more than 10,000 lawsuits were filed as a result of the Child Victims Act by the time its lookback window closed last August. Four of the state's eight Roman Catholic dioceses filed for bankruptcy, as did the Boy Scouts of America, at least partly due to a large number of lawsuits regarding sexual abuse. In 2019, lawmakers also expanded the civil and criminal statute of limitations for several felony sex offenses in the state. The criminal statute of limitations for second and third-degree rape increased from five years to 20 and 10 years, respectively, and Polenburg says the civil statute now stands at 20 years for both — but he notes those changes were made proactively, not retroactively.   "Meaning certain survivors who were abused before 2019 still only have a few years to file a civil lawsuit," he adds.   Polenberg says that, as child victims have been given the chance to look back, so should adults. For many survivors, coming to terms with what they went through can take years, even decades. Donna Hylton, activist and author of the memoir, A Little Piece of Light, says she's been surviving trauma and sexual abuse for the majority of her life – something she didn't really come to terms with until after her incarceration at age 20. Hylton says she was incarcerated for 27 years, and that people often misunderstand the sheer number of adult survivors in state prisons alone. “That 85 percent that we've been told for so long, of women, young women, and gender-expansive people that are in the system, that have been abused, is wrong. It's more like 97 percent. Closer to 98 percent. Why? Because people still don't talk. Why? Because people still don't listen," says Hylton. Assemblymember Amy Paulin, a Democrat from the 88th District, says she became a survivor at age 14, and it took years for her to say it out loud.   “I buried it, it was something I was embarrassed about, it was something that I never told anyone about — and I don't know that that would have been different if I was four years older," says Paulin. "If you're 17, you're a minor, you're 18 and all of sudden you're not. And I don't know what shifts or changes in a young woman's mind…not that much. So we have not addressed the remedies for so many young women who likely have not or did not even come to grips with their own sexual assault. So this is a very important bill.” “For many years, it was the State Assembly that moved the Child Victims Act forward. We're now in the situation where it's the Senate who's moving on the Adult Survivors Act — they passed it last year unanimously, everyone voted in support. This year, the bill has already moved through the Judiciary Committee and the Finance Committee, and it's now heading to the floor, and it's the Assembly where the bill seems to be stuck," adds Polenberg. "So we're hopeful that, with the support of the assemblymembers here today, that we can finally move this bill forward this year." Fellow Democratic State Assemblymembers Chris Burdick and Tom Abinanti joined Paulin at the press conference Thursday. New York's legislative session wraps on June 2.   Safe Horizon has operated a network of New York City programs helping survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, homelessness and more since 1978. The nonprofit says it responds to roughly 250,000 New Yorkers a year who have experienced violence or abuse.  51% is a national production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio. It's produced by Jesse King. Our executive producer is Dr. Alan Chartock, and our theme is "Lolita" by the Albany-based artist Girl Blue.

On this week's 51%, we speak with professors Shani Orgad and Rosalind Gill about their new book, Confidence Culture, examining the prominence of confidence and self-help discourse in modern-day marketing, workplaces, relationships — and well, everywhere else. We also discuss a bill in the New York legislature that would give adult survivors of sexual assault the opportunity to look back and sue their abusers. Guests: Dr. Shani Orgad and Dr. Rosalind Gill, authors of Confidence Culture 51% is a national production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio. It's produced by Jesse King. Our executive producer is Dr. Alan Chartock, and our theme is "Lolita" by the Albany-based artist Girl Blue. Follow Along You're listening to 51%, a WAMC production dedicated to women's issues and experiences. Thanks for tuning in, I'm Jesse King. Next week, we're kicking off a series on women in business, which personally I'm pretty excited for — but before we do that, I want to talk about confidence. Oftentimes, when we talk about women in business, there's a lot of focus on how women can better advocate for themselves and step up to the plate. We're supposed to lean in, push ourselves into new territory, break the glass ceiling. To paraphrase some advice Kim Kardashian recently got a lot of heat for — because I can't say the actual quote on the radio — we're supposed to get up and work.  I feel that also applies to the way we look at ourselves in general, too. We're frequently told to love ourselves, work on ourselves, feel comfortable in the skin we're in — all great messages. But I have to be honest: it can be a lot of pressure, and sometimes I don't. Sometimes I look at other go-getters and I'm like, “Man, I wish I could be like that.” Sometimes I don't love the skin, or hair, or clothes that I'm in. It's a lot of work being confident.  Our guests today have spent years looking into this phenomenon, which they call “confidence culture.” Dr. Shani Orgad is a professor of media and communications at the London School of Economics and Political Science, while Dr. Rosalind Gill teaches cultural and social analysis at the City University of London. Their new book — called Confidence Culture — interrogates the way we talk about confidence, and how, in some ways, self-help culture might hold us back.  Why is confidence discourse so prevalent right now? Gill: Well, we talk about it in more depth in the book, and we kind of track it back through self-help literature and self-help culture and the expansion of that, and the way that that's kind of taken off on social media. But we also sort of track it in terms of the global financial crisis, the recession, austerity, the kinds of messages that were more and more individualistic and, at least, very noticeable in the UK – for women to be to be thrifty, to make do and mend, [to] work on themselves, to use what resources they have to kind of hustle, I guess, in culture, most broadly. But we also talk about how it's kind of related to the rise in visibility of feminism. From around sort of 2014, it's been documented that feminism has really become much more visible as a kind of popular movement, and as a discourse across media. And we very much feel that this visibility of feminism has kind of allowed a space for these discourses of confidence to flourish. But of course, it's a very specific kind of feminism. It's a very individualistic feminism, it's not a kind of collective, outward-facing, kind of “changing structures” kind of feminism. It's very much a sort of inward looking, working on yourself to improve your position, kind of an emphasis. How do you see confidence culture working? What are the different parts that come together to create this movement? Gill: I mean, one of the things that was really, really striking to us was that we were working across different areas – like very different areas: the workplace, advertising, you know, “love your body” imagery, sex and relationships. In academic fields, these are spread quite widely, yet, what we're encountering was the same messages, again and again. And it wasn't just that they were the same broad messages, it's actually the same words and phrases that were being used, repeatedly. You know, the sort of “Strike a pose,” “Feel comfortable in your own skin,” “Love yourself,” “Believe in yourself.” And it really felt as if this wasn't just something that was happening in individual areas. It was kind of more than the sum of the parts. Orgad: And so it works through discourse – but we also know that it's very, very important as a visual regime. And again, as Ros mentioned, often through very similar visual imagery. So we identified what we call the “confidence pose,” which is, you know, the kind of Wonder Woman pose where you stand with your feet wide apart, hands on your hips, and so on. And this has been popularized by people like American social psychologist Amy Cuddy, who gave her most popular TED talk about power poses, where she literally shows Wonder Woman as the exemplar of this pose. What we noted is that, visually, this is was a really important signifier of confidence – across advertisements, we looked across women's magazines, business journals, and reports. Again, in different domains and context, you will see the very same visual appearances that signified confidence. We also realized that it's not only discourse and not only kind of a visual regime, but confidence also, importantly, works through emotions, through the affective level. In other words, it's not just about telling women certain things and encouraging them to change the way they think, or the way they look, crucially, but also fundamentally the way they feel. We identified particular aspects, particular emotions that are very much associated with confidence: resilience, positive thinking, gratitude. But crucially, it's also about certain emotions that confidence is not aligned with. For instance, we found how the particular type of confidence that confidence culture encourages, which is very individualized and positive, also often comes and goes hand in hand with prohibiting anger, or prohibiting those feelings that are deemed supposedly “ugly” or “negative.” So don't be bitter, don't be angry – be confident. And finally, we identify the way that confidence culture works also through practices – through not just things that you say, or not just even things that you feel, but also literally through things that you do. So again, it's about how you write emails. In this context. Google launched their “Sorry, Not Sorry” plugin a few years ago, which was addressed, particularly to women, interestingly, not starting your email with, “I'm just writing to…,” “No worries if not,” all these kinds of edits that are particularly, again, addressed to women – because of this assumption that there is some kind of a deficit and this internal defect almost, or these self-inflicted wounds that we should somehow overcome. And partly, were encouraged to overcome through changing our practices, even through changing the way we breathe. We found a range of texts, to our astonishment, that are about how you should retrain, reeducate yourself, how to breathe, in order to become more assertive, to love yourself, and so on. So it's ubiquitous, and that's why we call it “culture,” across very distinct domains, but also across very different realms: the visual, the textual, the emotional, and also the lived practices that we are all kind of engaging in an everyday basis. Your book mentions the popularity of confidence workshops or classes for women in the workplace – which surprised me, I don't think that I have personally come across that yet. It kind of seems strange to me to have it company-sponsored. But can you tell me a little bit more about that? Orgad: Yeah. And I think that is partly what we try to bring through the book, this kind of strangeness to it. To pause, to question things that have become so normalized and accepted. I'm really glad for you that you haven't encountered it, we have encountered them ourselves. But also, since the book has been published, we've been receiving numerous emails and messages on social media from women, who say, “I was sent to one of these courses! Now I understand!” And evidently and importantly, beyond the anecdotal, these are also commercially viable programs that lots of workplaces are signing into. And, you know, sometimes they might not be explicitly called “confidence” – they are sometimes, for instance, under the guise of “leadership.” But then when you look at what they contain, they would be, often in very troublingly gendered ways, directed to encouraging women and trying to help women to build their confidence and so on. And I think it's important for us to say that we do recognize that these are often well-meaning programs, in the same way that we recognize that the body positivity movement and “love your body” messages are and may be well meaning – and indeed may help women, individual women, to feel better about themselves, or to negotiate a pay raise, or to be more assertive in a meeting at work. We don't want to dismiss this. But we are troubled by the way that these programs, confidence coaching and similar kind of programs, are very much individualizing both the problem and the responsibility for fixing the problem. Workplaces invest a lot of money in initiatives that ultimately individualize it to employees, and particularly to women employees, to find the problem, or their internal issues and psychological obstacles, as it were. There are programs, for instance – and these are women-only programs, so in workplaces that are mixed workplaces, women-only programs are designed to help only those women in the work through a range of techniques that they're being taught – it can include things like mindfulness and yoga, things that are to do with your physical kind of confidence, how you project confidence physically, through more kind of psychological work on yourself. Changing the ways you communicate, for instance, in written communication, and so on. One of the interesting things that we noticed during the pandemic is that we were both, like many other people, spending hours on Zoom. And one of the interesting things that flourished during the pandemic is “virtually confident” workshops, which were about teaching people – but again, especially women – how to project confidence on screen. It was found that women, much more than men, tend to touch themselves on screen, and so there were entire programs that Ros and I attended about making yourself aware and, again, how you use your voice and how you project confidence, how you occupy space on the screen, how you position yourself, what background you choose, and so on and so forth. So commercially, they're viable, and they're successful, which also suggests that it's something that there isn't just appetite for it, but a purchase to it. I don't know, if you want to add, Ros. Gill: I think I just wanted to add something about our own ambivalence. And it goes back to something that you said right at the start Jesse, about feeling that you receive a lot of these messages – and just to really, really kind of highlight that we are not critical of confidence messaging, and we're not critical of women who find that messaging productive, helpful in their lives or, you know, beneficial for them to feel better. We confess to having cried at our fair share of Dove adverts and to having kind of adopted many of the confidence practices – both on ourselves, having done these courses, but also trying to encourage our students. We always encourage them, “Take up more space in the room, be bold when speaking at a conference, don't write apologetically,” and everything. So just to really emphasize that our target isn't confidence itself, and it isn't the women that adopt those programs, but it's what the culture does, and the way that it's kind of been placed beyond debate. And it's almost become like a cult in the sense that it's kind of an article of faith that is unquestionable. What would you say are the side effects of the culture? What does it mask over, and what is the effect on those in it? Gill: I think the main things that it does are, first of all, it kind of places all the responsibility and all the blame on women themselves. So it treats it as if this is some kind of pathology, this is some kind of defect, it's some kind of internal deficit. It's something that women lack, and that they have to work on making up for. So it's very blaming as a discourse. There's an example in the book, The Confidence Code, which is, you know, a New York Times bestseller, a very celebrated book – but they talk about women scratching themselves, scratching themselves like babies do, and say that we need to put on the mittens so that we don't scratch ourselves. Which we found to be so troubling, because it's such a infantilizing metaphor. So there's that whole kind of element of blame that is really problematic. And then there's the flip side of that, of like, what's that doing when you kind of put all the responsibility for a lack of confidence, and for gender inequality, on women's shoulders. It's as if we're doing this to ourselves, we put ourselves in this position, rather than looking at the structures and institutions and barriers that actually are in place that are preventing women and other oppressed and marginalized groups from actually making progress. You mentioned earlier the kind of imagery you were noticing in the ads and campaigns you were studying. Did you notice a particular demographic or kind of women who were being targeted to be more confident, or who were most showcased and represented as “confident” in these ads? Gill: We've tried to be really, really attentive to differences across the entire book, and we hope that the book offers a really intersectional feminist analysis of what we're seeing. So we've looked across age, we've looked across race and ethnicity, we've looked across disability and sexuality. I think what we've really tried to problematize, and it comes out most visibly in relation to the advertising, is a kind of faux diversity, in a way, a sort of hollowing out of diversity. At first, we were kind of hopeful that this kind of advertising was going to actually open up space for many more different kinds of women to be shown, who aren't usually the kind of white, middle class, cisgender, able-bodied, women that dominate the visual habitat that we all live in. We did see more diversity, but then we immediately saw that being somehow undercut or undermined with a kind of “one size fits all.” So this sort of sense that, “Well, whatever the problem, whoever the group, there's just one solution” – and it's to be more confident, confidence training programs, something like that. So it's a kind of double-move of recognizing diversity, only to then kind of say, “Well, it doesn't matter.” So what do we do? I mean, how can we help women feel more confident without making them feel like there's pressure on them? Or that there's something wrong with them? Orgad: Yeah, I think it's a really good question. And I would really just reiterate what was said earlier, that we are not against confidence, and we want women to thrive and feel safer and happier and more confident. But we feel really strongly that, at the same time, we need (and by we, we mean not just with women, but crucially as a society) to really think critically about how not just to invest in demanding and encouraging and exhorting women to be more confident and fix the problem as it were themselves, but to think and nourish structural thinking. And so we ended the book, in our conclusion, we call it “Beyond Confidence.” And we're trying to look at examples that perhaps are not entirely outside confidence or against confidence –because again, we are not ourselves against confidence – but that do introduce those things that, as you mentioned before, Jesse, that confidence culture masks and perhaps minimizes or marginalizes. And we talked about what we call “confidence climate” – how can we think about nurturing and building a climate that enables and allows women and everybody and other disempowered groups to feel safer and feel more confident, rather than putting again the onus on individuals to do that work? In this context we bring Lizzo as an interesting example, because she's kind of the self-confidence queen, but at the same time, Lizzo is a really interesting kind of person and persona to think through about what we can do differently. Because she foregrounds, for instance, interdependence, she foregrounds the ways in which she herself, to become confident, is dependent on her family, on her network of friends, on the community who travels with her on her tour. So one way, for instance, that we would want to think about building a climate of confidence is a climate that encourages our dependence on each other, and doesn't deem being dependent on somebody abhorrent or ugly or undesirable. The [current] confidence culture is not about needing help from anybody else, it's about you caring for yourself, because nobody else will. So these are kind of ways that we feel that should come, and we would hope would come, alongside the more kind of individual work that perhaps women can do, or do do – and we would have liked to see workplaces investing more in structural changes that create places and workplaces that are confident workplaces, where employees can thrive as confident beings, rather than sending them on these courses that keep telling them the problem is you, you fix it. Drs. Shani Orgad and Rosalind Gill are the authors of Confidence Culture, out now on Duke University Press. Shani and Rosalind, thanks so much for taking the time. We're gonna switch gears before we head out to recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month - and a warning to those who may be sensitive to the subject. On Thursday, New York state lawmakers joined survivors in Westchester County to call attention to a bill that would give some adult survivors the opportunity to sue their abusers in court. The Adult Survivors Act is similar to the Child Victims Act passed by the legislature in 2019, which gave survivors of childhood sexual abuse a one-year lookback window to sue their abusers, in some cases long after the state's statute of limitations expired. The one-year window was ultimately extended another year due to the coronavirus pandemic. This time, the Adult Survivors Act would open up that opportunity to those who were 18 years or older at the time of their abuse. The bill was passed by the State Senate last year, but it has so far stalled in the Assembly.  It was a blustery Thursday in New York's Hudson Valley, but advocates with the victims assistance nonprofit Safe Horizon still gathered outside the Westchester County Court in White Plains to push for the bill's passage.   State Senator Shelly Mayer, a Democrat from the 37th District, is a co-sponsor of the bill. "This is so basic to our system of laws. We're not talking about criminal penalties here, we're talking about the opportunity to confront your accuser and make a civil claim for damages," says Mayer. "And that is what our systems of laws is based on. The equality of opportunity to assert your claim." Safe Horizon Vice President of Government Affairs Michael Polenberg says more than 10,000 lawsuits were filed as a result of the Child Victims Act by the time its lookback window closed last August. Four of the state's eight Roman Catholic dioceses filed for bankruptcy, as did the Boy Scouts of America, at least partly due to a large number of lawsuits regarding sexual abuse. In 2019, lawmakers also expanded the civil and criminal statute of limitations for several felony sex offenses in the state. The criminal statute of limitations for second and third-degree rape increased from five years to 20 and 10 years, respectively, and Polenburg says the civil statute now stands at 20 years for both — but he notes those changes were made proactively, not retroactively.   "Meaning certain survivors who were abused before 2019 still only have a few years to file a civil lawsuit," he adds.   Polenberg says that, as child victims have been given the chance to look back, so should adults. For many survivors, coming to terms with what they went through can take years, even decades. Donna Hylton, activist and author of the memoir, A Little Piece of Light, says she's been surviving trauma and sexual abuse for the majority of her life – something she didn't really come to terms with until after her incarceration at age 20. Hylton says she was incarcerated for 27 years, and that people often misunderstand the sheer number of adult survivors in state prisons alone. “That 85 percent that we've been told for so long, of women, young women, and gender-expansive people that are in the system, that have been abused, is wrong. It's more like 97 percent. Closer to 98 percent. Why? Because people still don't talk. Why? Because people still don't listen," says Hylton. Assemblymember Amy Paulin, a Democrat from the 88th District, says she became a survivor at age 14, and it took years for her to say it out loud.   “I buried it, it was something I was embarrassed about, it was something that I never told anyone about — and I don't know that that would have been different if I was four years older," says Paulin. "If you're 17, you're a minor, you're 18 and all of sudden you're not. And I don't know what shifts or changes in a young woman's mind…not that much. So we have not addressed the remedies for so many young women who likely have not or did not even come to grips with their own sexual assault. So this is a very important bill.” “For many years, it was the State Assembly that moved the Child Victims Act forward. We're now in the situation where it's the Senate who's moving on the Adult Survivors Act — they passed it last year unanimously, everyone voted in support. This year, the bill has already moved through the Judiciary Committee and the Finance Committee, and it's now heading to the floor, and it's the Assembly where the bill seems to be stuck," adds Polenberg. "So we're hopeful that, with the support of the assemblymembers here today, that we can finally move this bill forward this year." Fellow Democratic State Assemblymembers Chris Burdick and Tom Abinanti joined Paulin at the press conference Thursday. New York's legislative session wraps on June 2.   Safe Horizon has operated a network of New York City programs helping survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, homelessness and more since 1978. The nonprofit says it responds to roughly 250,000 New Yorkers a year who have experienced violence or abuse.  51% is a national production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio. It's produced by Jesse King. Our executive producer is Dr. Alan Chartock, and our theme is "Lolita" by the Albany-based artist Girl Blue.

It's yet another bonus episode with Chamar and Andrew. Thank you so much to Marvel Dice Throne for supporting today's episode. Please use the following link to check out their Kickstarter, support the campaign, and https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dicethrone/marvel-dice-throne?ref=e4adag (reserve your copy)! In this episode, we provide a character profile on Wonder Woman. We're discussing her journey, her impact, and her mission. Yet Another DC Animated Podcast of Forgotten Entertainment is celebrating the 80th anniversary of Wonder Woman. In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Wonder Woman's embodiment of strength, resilience and courage, we are fundraising in support of Safe Horizon's work empowering survivors through their healing.  https://secure.givelively.org/donate/safe-horizon-inc/yet-another-dc-animated-podcast-wonder-woman-day-1941 (Make a gift on our page to directly support Safe Horizon) and to honor a mission that ties to the values that Wonder Woman has had since 1941. Join us as we stand in solidarity with domestic violence survivors.  Be a Champion.  #SafetyIsEssential #DVAM

TW: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS CONTENT ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ABUSE She's BAAAACKKKKK!!!! Before Shawn gets into the episode, she get's into her life update -- she's talking how her trip to Syracuse was and some instagram tea. In light of recent events with Gabby Petito, Shawn discusses some of the warning signs of an abusive relationship. Safe Horizon has a 24 hour hotline if you feel you or a loved one needs help. Call 1-800-621-4673. Shawn is joined on this week's episode by Lilly Sparks, who is the founder and CEO of Afterglow, a porn and sexual wellness company. They talk all things porn-- how a porn video comes to life, ethical porn, and why it is important to pay for your porn. Lilly talks about the biggest misconceptions about porn and porn performers. The two dive into the most searched porn categories… some of the results may surprise you! For a 14 day free trial, use code: pleasure21 Email Shawn at toughtittiespod@gmail.com Follow on Instagram: @itsyourgirlshawn @thetoughtittiespodcast @xoafterglow Follow on Twitter: @toughtittiespod @xoafterglow Follow on Tik Tok: @shawn_jacobson https://linktr.ee/toughtitties https://xoafterglow.com

The Wicked Ones Podcast Hosts…Jen & Tara discuss the murder of Connie Navarro and sadly, once again, find themselves talking about a domestic violence homicide.Connie was a gorgeous, blonde haired beauty who modeled occasionally and worked on a few of the game shows we remember watching as kids who grew up in the 80's.Dave Navarro, who is well known as the guitarist for Jane's Addiction, among many other creative undertakings, is Connie's son. Dave was only 15 when his mother was murdered and in a documentary he created in 2015, he talks about how losing her shaped every decision he ever made growing up…both good and bad. When we say bad…we're talking about a pretty dark spiral into a world of drugs & depression. He's very clear, however, that he does NOT blame his addiction on her murder, but rather, it gave him an excuse to continue down that dangerous road.It was Dave's hope that by telling his story from the point of view of a child who was left behind as a victim of domestic violence, he could bring about a different kind of awareness in this unique way. Statistics show that approximately 3 women A DAY are killed in domestic violence homicides, BUT we rarely hear from the point of view of the children who's lives continue to be deeply impacted by their great loss.We're big fans of Dave and his advocacy work on domestic violence only makes us love him more. He shared the story of his Mother's murder and it's personal impact on his life as a cautionary tale to help people recognize the signs of domestic violence before things escalate.Here at The Wicked Ones Podcast, we're hoping to do the same.________Join the Movement & Take a Stand Against DV: #putanailinitFrom their Website: One Small Statement Makes a Big DifferenceThe idea is simple: by painting your ring fingernail purple, you are showing the world your vow to help spread awareness of domestic violence and displaying your support for Safe Horizon, the country's largest organization helping victims of domestic violence get the crucial help they need in their darkest moments.

We did it live and we did it big for Safe Horizon, raising over $1K for the nation's largest victim services organization. For those who missed it, peep our very first live recording, featuring a comedy panel with Ariel Leaty, Minnie Scarlet, Rosa Escandon and Sarah Garner, music from Lexi Todd, an expert interview with Safe Horizon's Shanequa Holiday and the ridiculousness of your two favorite co-hosts. Plus, a birthday, some vibrators and a couple surprises. This episode was originally recorded on Friday, January 31, 2020 at Caveat in NYC. - - - - - - - - - - A podcast about domestic violence, dating, sex and sisterhood hosted by comedians and survivors Onika McLean (@divaofcomedy) and Brittany Brave (@brittanybrave.) Don't punch back-- punch up. New episodes every Tuesday! - - - - - - - - - - If you or someone you know is in a dangerous situation and you suspect there is abuse, please contact 9-1-1 or call 1-800-799-7233. - - - - - - - - - - Feel free to contact violentlyfunnypodcast@gmail.com or DM Onika (@divaofcomedy) or Britt (@brittanybrave) if you need help or have a story to share. We're open to our listeners 24/7.

Week 3, Onika and Britt are back on their bullshit! The pair welcome the incredible Lexi Todd to talk healing through art and introduce listeners to their future husbands Chad and Harold (a wild tale of white boys.) Everything Lexi does oozes authenticity and empowerment. In 2018, Lexi dropped MARIA, IMMURED. The EP chronicles abuse from the sidelines, but helped Lexi identify where it was in her life, too. As an extra treat, we're giving listeners a sneak peek to Lexi's new single "Window Shopping" out 10/30. Follow Lexi on social media: @lexitoddmusic! - - - - - - - - - - VIOLENTLY FUNNY (@violentlyfunnypodcast) is a podcast about domestic violence, dating, sex, sisterhood hosted by comedians and survivors Onika McLean (@divaofcomedy) and Brittany Brave (@brittanybrave.) Don't punch back--punch up. New episodes every Tuesday! - - - - - - - - - - RESOURCES: If you or someone you know is in dangerous situation and you suspect there is abuse, please contact 9-1-1 or call 1-800-799-7233. More info: www.thehotline.org If you're local to NYC, you can also contact Safe Horizon at 1-800-621-HOPE (4673). More info: www.safehorizon.org - - - - - - - - - - You can also feel free to reach out to Onika and Brittany at violentlyfunnypodcast@gmail.com or send us a DM on Instagram (@violentlyfunnypodcast.) We'll always keep both your stories and identity private. Our doors are open 24/7.

A podcast about domestic violence, dating, sex, sisterhood hosted by comedians and survivors Onika McLean (@divaofcomedy) and Brittany Brave (@brittanybrave.) Don't punch back, punch up. Follow on social media (@violentlyfunnypodcast.) - - - - - - - - - - RESOURCES: If you or someone you know is in dangerous situation and you suspect there is abuse, please contact 9-1-1 or call 1-800-799-7233. More info: www.thehotline.org If you're local to NYC, you can also contact Safe Horizon at 1-800-621-HOPE (4673). More info: www.safehorizon.org You can also feel free to reach out to Onika and Brittany at violentlyfunnypodcast@gmail.com or send us a DM on Instagram (@violentlyfunnypodcast.) We'll always keep both your stories and identity private. Our doors are open 24/7.