A podcast where people share real stories of trauma, survival, mental health, and the darkest moments of their lives. Trauma, abuse, true crime, resilience, and the long road toward healing are at the center of every episode. These conversations go deeper than the surface to uncover the truth of what they lived through, what it cost them, and how they found the strength to rise again. It is real, emotional, and driven by the belief that when survivors speak, others find the courage to heal.
Hosted by Chell Bane, a medical professional with 20+ years in psychiatry and addiction medicine, and a survivor of trauma herself.
If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:
https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A podcast where people share real stories of trauma, survival, mental health, and the darkest moments of their lives. Trauma, abuse, true crime, resilience, and the long road toward healing are at the center of every episode. These conversations go deeper than the surface to uncover the truth of what they lived through, what it cost them, and how they found the strength to rise again. It is real, emotional, and driven by the belief that when survivors speak, others find the courage to heal.
Hosted by Chell Bane, a medical professional with 20+ years in psychiatry and addiction medicine, and a survivor of trauma herself.
If you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here:
https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Angelina opens up about the moment CPS removed her children due to domestic violence, meth addiction, and a life spiraling out of control. Determined to break the cycle she was born into, she reflects on how a strict Catholic upbringing, childhood abandonment, and never being allowed to express feelings shaped the path that led to alcohol misuse, military trauma, and a dangerous relationship that fueled her addiction. From becoming a teen mom to serving in the Army and deploying to Afghanistan, she spent years trying to hold everything together while losing herself in the process.
This emotional episode explores PTSD, homelessness, relapse, and the heartbreaking decision to relinquish parental rights. Through therapy, domestic violence shelters, and recovery programs, Angelina fought her way back and rebuilt her life with support, purpose, and newfound strength. Now over three years sober, she is reunited with her daughter, a proud grandmother, and pursuing a career in social work to help others heal from addiction, trauma, and abuse. Her story shows that even after losing everything, recovery and redemption are possible.
Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline (SAMHSA)
1-800-662-4357
24/7 Crisis Line
988
Women Veterans Call Center
855-829-6636
RAINN
1-800-656-4673
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Walking Tall shares their story of surviving years of extreme physical and sexual abuse inflicted by their stepfather, who targeted them from early childhood. In their small Texas town, religious extremism, white supremacy, and corruption created an environment where children were not protected. Their home became a place of drugs, violence, and child sexual exploitation, while teachers, relatives, and pastors ignored clear signs of danger. When their mother finally tried to expose the truth and escape, she was found dead with injuries that contradict the official claim of suicide. The truth was buried and the people who could have protected them turned away.
After a near death motorcycle accident that resulted in a profound spiritual encounter with their mother, Walking Tall chose to transform their suffering into purpose. They are now an Indigenous healer and sound practitioner using ancestral wisdom and embodied healing to help others reclaim their lives after trauma. Their story shows the courage it takes to break generational cycles, honor truth in the face of denial, and create a life defined by healing and love instead of violence and silence.
Walking Tall's Socials and Websites
https://www.instagram.com/walkingtall888
www.chiefwalkingtall.com
https://taplink.cc/chiefwalkingtall
https://openmypro.com/doctor/7TgPeYOTtWghkk6kx2w0uO22yD73
Resources:
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
24/7 confidential support, online chat & hotline
1-800-656-HOPE
https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/
NSVRC (National Sexual Violence Resource Center)
Crisis Text Line
741741
The National Child Abuse Hotline
800-422-4453
Childhelp
Prevention education and child abuse intervention services
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Danny survived what most people never do. A random knife attack outside a bar left him with life-threatening internal injuries, months in the hospital, and the devastating news that his firefighting career and active life were over. He fought his way back through recovery and found purpose again.
Then a car crash left him paralyzed from the waist down. In an instant he was facing a spinal cord injury, a wheelchair, new trauma, and the emotional battle of rebuilding his future all over again. Danny talks about surviving violent crime, living with disability, navigating depression and chronic pain, and finding strength through fatherhood and adaptive sports. Today he plays wheelchair softball, wheelchair basketball, handcycling, and sit skiing. His story proves resilience is not a single comeback. It is choosing to keep going every time life hits harder.
Danny's Socials
https://www.tiktok.com/@danimal1518
https://www.facebook.com/daniel.mila.9
https://www.instagram.com/milaman15
https://www.instagram.com/milamonster15
Resources:
Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
https://www.christopherreeve.org
Education, peer support groups, and SCI resources
Paralysis Resource Center: 1-800-539-7309
Kelly Brush Foundation
https://kellybrushfoundation.org
Grants for adaptive sports equipment including sit-skis
High Fives Foundation
https://highfivesfoundation.org
Supports people with life-changing injuries through adventure sports
United Spinal Association
Advocacy, grants for accessibility, wheelchair sports opportunities
Move United
https://www.moveunitedsport.org
Find adaptive sports programs nationwide
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Grace Stuart opens up about her harrowing journey through domestic violence and the psychological manipulation that kept her trapped for years. From the early “glimpses” of control and gaslighting to the trauma bond that blurred love and survival, Grace shares how her abuser used charm, addiction, and coercive control to isolate and dominate her. She speaks candidly about sexual coercion, emotional abuse, and the illusion of “potential” that keeps so many survivors from recognizing danger until it’s too late.
Now an advocate for survivors and educator on abuse awareness, Grace exposes the tactics of narcissistic partners, the impact of addiction and trauma bonding, and the courage it takes to leave. Her story is a powerful reminder that abuse thrives in silence and that sharing our stories can help others recognize the signs, break the cycle, and reclaim their voice.
Grace’s Socials
https://www.instagram.com/gracee__elizabethh
https://linktr.ee/gracestuart01
Grace’s Podcast - Why She Stayed
https://www.instagram.com/whyshestayedpodcast
Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.)
1-800-799-7233
Text “START” to 88788
Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center
U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program
https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program
Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.
https://www.domesticshelters.org
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sarah shares the heartbreaking story of her son, Logan, whose lifelong battle with mental illness and psychosis ended in tragedy. From her experience as a teen mom navigating life alone and the challenges she faced during pregnancy, to Logan’s early struggles with voices and night terrors, Sarah opens up about grief, mental health, and the stigma surrounding suicide loss. Her story is a raw reflection on healing, motherhood, and the enduring bond between a parent and child.
Through her honesty, she sheds light on the silent pain so many families face and the importance of compassion, awareness, and acknowledging grief without judgment. This conversation reminds us that even in the depths of loss, love still finds a way to speak.
It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine
Mental Health Resources:
Crisis Text Line
741741
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
After surviving a brutal sexual assault in 2011, Angelique refused to let her story end in silence. In this raw and powerful episode, she opens up about the day she was attacked by a serial rapist in Gainesville, Florida — the fight for her life, the trauma that followed, and the system that failed to deliver justice.
Angelique speaks openly about the trauma of sexual violence, the realities of victim-blaming, and the deep cracks within a legal system that too often protects offenders over survivors. She exposes how rape kits sit untested, how alcohol and advocacy collide in spaces meant to be “safe,” and how many survivors are left without justice or support.
But this isn’t just a story of what was taken; it’s about what she built after. Angelique found sobriety, purpose, and a mission to create trauma-informed, survivor-centered spaces where healing is possible. Her voice has become a force in sexual assault awareness and survivor advocacy, challenging the culture of silence and calling out the systems that need to change.
Colorado’s Rape Kit Backlog Gofundme
Resources:
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
24/7 confidential support, online chat & hotline
1-800-656-HOPE
https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/
NSVRC (National Sexual Violence Resource Center)
Crisis Text Line
741741
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
After being medically discharged from the Air Force due to Crohn’s disease, Destynie’s life was turned upside down. Crohn’s disease (a chronic, debilitating autoimmune disorder) took away her career and nearly took her life. What followed was a decade-long battle not only with her own body but with the military healthcare system and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that were supposed to protect her.
Destynie opens up about losing over 60 pounds in nine months, facing multiple hospitalizations and surgeries, and enduring years of pain while fighting for proper medical recognition. She shares how the system dismissed her suffering, how she learned to advocate for herself, and what it took to finally be heard.
This episode shines a light on the realities of living with severe Crohn’s disease, the failures of veteran healthcare, and the strength it takes to keep fighting when your illness—and the system—try to silence you.
Crohn’s Disease & Autoimmune Support:
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation (CCF)
https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org
Global Healthy Living Foundation – IBD Support
Veteran Advocacy & Legal Aid Resources:
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP)
Wounded Warrior Project – Benefits & Advocacy
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Veterans Legal Institute
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lee Alexander shares his powerful journey from military service to surviving the unseen battles that followed. A U.S. Navy veteran who later served in the Army National Guard, Lee spent years deployed in the Middle East and Mogadishu, Somalia, working as a criminal investigator aboard the USS Ranger. After injuries forced him to leave active duty, he grappled with PTSD, survivor’s guilt, and the silence surrounding mental health in the armed forces.
When the Humvee carrying the soldier who replaced him hit an IED, killing everyone inside, Lee was consumed by guilt — struggling with nightmares and the feeling that he had no right to speak about his pain. He opens up about the night he almost ended his life, the friend whose unexpected text saved him, and the importance of connection and support for veterans who often suffer in silence.
Writing became his turning point. What began as private notes evolved into poetry and fiction that helped him heal. Today, Lee is a published author of a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired novel (The Fortuitous Few), a dark Victorian fantasy series (The Damien Blackwell Chronicles), and a poetry collection titled In the Obsidian Mirror, I Remain: Reflections of a Fractured Soul, which explores trauma, reflection, and recovery. His short story Writing in the Shadows was also recognized by Writer’s Digest.
Now working in IT and military simulation training, Lee continues to advocate for veteran mental health, creative healing, and the power of storytelling.
Lee’s Websites and Social Media:
https://shadowpagespressllc.com
https://www.instagram.com/leea.writes
Storytellers Convention: https://onceuponeverystorycon.com
Lee’s Books:
In The Obsidian Mirror, I Remain: Reflections of a Fractured Soul
(Available on Amazon)
Shadows of the Past: The Damien Blackwell Chronicles - International Reader’s Choice Award
(Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble)
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shadows-of-the-past-lee-alexander/1146110569?ean=9798991136006
Echoes of Dark and Light: The Damien Blackwell Chronicles
(Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble)
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/echoes-of-dark-and-light-lee-alexander/1147052734?ean=9798991136020
The Fortuitous Few
(Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble)
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-fortuitous-few-lee-alexander/1146878393?ean=9798991136082
Writing in the Shadows - Writer's Digest Annual Award Nomination
Veteran PTSD Resources:
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ptsd/next-step.asp
Combat Call Center: (877)WAR-VETS
PTSD Foundation of America -Veteran Line: (877)717-PTSD
Mental Health Resources:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Laura’s story is a haunting look at the hidden realities of domestic violence — and the systems that fail survivors. She opens up about falling in love with a man who slowly stripped away her confidence through manipulation, gaslighting, and control. What began as subtle red flags turned into emotional and physical terror, leaving her fighting to reclaim her sense of safety and self-worth. As a trained martial artist and health advocate, Laura reflects on the painful irony of being both strong and trapped as well as how abusers exploit empathy, guilt, and love to maintain power.
Laura takes us through the aftermath, the failed trial that never gave her closure, the retraumatization within the legal system, and the painful silence from a community that protected her abuser. She discusses the generational patterns of abuse within her family, the importance of therapy, and the long journey of rebuilding trust in herself. Laura’s courage to speak out gives voice to countless survivors who were silenced by fear or disbelief. Her story is not just about violence; it’s about reclaiming autonomy, exposing injustice, and reminding others that healing begins when you finally refuse to be quiet.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233
Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center
U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program
Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.
https://www.domesticshelters.org
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Melisa shares the heart-wrenching story of her ex-partner Alex’s motorcycle accident that left him quadriplegic after being struck by a Grubhub driver. In the aftermath, she faced not only the devastation of ICU visits and breaking the news to her daughter, but also the unraveling of family trust.
As Alex’s girlfriend stepped in as his caretaker, Melisa describes how she cut him off from loved ones, took control through a secret marriage, power of attorney, and a new will, and left the family fighting for access, truth, and justice. This powerful conversation explores love, betrayal, and the painful reality of losing someone not just to tragedy, but also to deception and control.
Justice for Alex and His Children Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567689483408
Flag to Remember Foundation
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Savannah, a police officer and military veteran, shares her story of sacrifice, betrayal, and survival. After giving up her entire life in Washington to move to Chicago for marriage, she quickly discovered her husband was not the man she thought he was. Once married, he became emotionally abusive and revealed struggles with cheating, drug addiction, and sex addiction, leaving Savannah to navigate devastating betrayal and the painful unraveling of the life she had built.
Her journey reaches further back into a childhood shaped by domestic violence and family dysfunction, where she learned patterns that influenced her adult relationships and left her vulnerable to manipulation. Savannah reflects on how family betrayal, military service, and her role as a police officer all intersected with the trauma she carried—and how she found the strength to reclaim her boundaries, self-worth, and future. Her story exposes the realities of toxic family dynamics, generational trauma, and emotional abuse, while shining a light on the resilience it takes to heal, rebuild, and rise stronger.
Savannah’s Book: In the Wake of Wounds
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FPRNYMZ6?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_9ANEMFQ0X0EZ1PNM0Q7T
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Clair’s life began in chaos—raised by a father who fabricated shocking lies about his family being murdered and a mother who was later deported. Her childhood was marked by deception, abandonment, and the weight of secrets no child should carry. As she grew older, Clair uncovered more truths about her family’s past, while navigating the pain of loss, strained relationships, and the emotional toll of addiction.
She shares what it was like to grow up with a mother battling alcoholism and a father whose life was cut short in a car accident when she was young. She reflects on the dark moments where she questioned whether life was worth continuing—and the resilience it took to keep going. Today, Clair is rewriting the narrative, determined to raise her daughter with honesty, empathy, and a safe space to express her emotions.
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
After growing up in Trenton, New Jersey, Prince broke the cycle and built a life defined by discipline and service; first in the Army, then as a Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer. Ten years into his career, everything changed when a drunk driver hit him, forcing an abrupt medical retirement.
While facing the aftermath of the crash, Prince was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD. Instead of breaking, he rebuilt—returning to school, earning multiple degrees, and ultimately completing his doctorate in criminal justice. Today, he uses his lived experience and education to teach the next generation as a college professor, while continuing to speak openly about mental health, resilience, and overcoming trauma.
Prince has transformed his pain into purpose advocating for mental health awareness in law enforcement and veteran communities while proving that it’s possible to rise from loss stronger than before. From losing the identity he once clung to, to finding purpose beyond the badge, his story is proof that resilience is possible even when the world falls apart.
Prince’s Socials and Links
https://instagram.com/realprinceblue
https://tiktok.com/@realprinceblue
https://www.linkedin.com/in/prince-blue
Email: armyprince2020@gmail.com
Real Time with Prince Blue Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@realprinceblue
Black and Blue Lives Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-and-blue-lives/id1574245761
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Misti Blu Day shares her powerful story of surviving both childhood trauma and life-threatening health battles. Growing up in a home marked by abuse, alcoholism, and trauma bonds, she learned early on what it meant to live in survival mode. Later in life, she faced congenital heart issues, dangerous arrhythmias, and multiple open-heart surgeries — first in 2011, again seven years later, and most recently just three years ago. She also lives with Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a connective tissue disorder, and Wolff–Parkinson–White Syndrome (WPW), a rare heart condition that causes abnormal rhythms.
Her journey highlights the connection between trauma, chronic illness, and the fight to reclaim life after repeated medical emergencies. From navigating grief and gaslighting to waking up after open-heart surgery with a second chance, Misti’s story is one of raw honesty, resilience, and hope.
This episode dives into themes of childhood abuse, trauma recovery, resilience, congenital heart disease, open-heart surgery, healing after medical trauma, PTSD, abuse survival, and overcoming adversity.
Misti’s Socials and Links
https://www.instagram.com/mistibluday
Books:
Botanical Rebellion: Apothecary Guide to Nature's Alchemy
Garden of Blu
Botanical Rebellion Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/botanical-rebellion/id1802984202
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Paul Hutchinson, executive producer of Sound of Freedom and founder of multiple child-rescue initiatives, exposes the hidden realities of human trafficking and child exploitation. He shares his firsthand experiences from undercover operations, detailing how traffickers target children, the signs families should recognize, and why awareness is the first step in prevention.
Hutchinson also addresses the deep impact of trauma and the urgent need for meaningful healing. He discusses the role of psilocybin therapy and his retreat work, explaining how structured psychedelic experiences can help survivors, rescuers, and others carrying unresolved pain achieve breakthroughs in recovery.
This conversation reveals both the darkness of trafficking networks and the hope found in innovative healing. Hutchinson’s perspective underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable children while also creating pathways for long-term restoration and resilience.
Paul’s Socials and Website
https://liberating-humanity.com
https://www.instagram.com/liberating.humanity
https://www.youtube.com/@Liberatinghumanity
https://www.tiktok.com/@liberating.humanity
https://www.facebook.com/liberating.humanity
‘The Sound of Freedom: True Stories that Inspired the Film’ Book
(Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble!)
Sound of Freedom movie
https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CV3TMD6M/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r
The Liberating Humanity Podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4X5cFDS0DlHCe3xhlr8yfB?si=a8fb6aea2c654679
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/liberating-humanity-real-heroes-real-stories-and/id1699211825
Child Liberation Foundation
https://www.instagram.com/childliberationfoundation
https://www.tiktok.com/@childliberationorg
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9lTb0RGJKgR04ALjeYkrXA
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In part two, Lyndsey continues her courageous domestic violence survivor story, exposing the realities of life after leaving an abusive relationship. She opens up about the trauma responses that follow abuse, the challenges of co-parenting with an abuser, and the emotional impact on her children. Lyndsey shares her experience of navigating the justice system, the cycle of manipulation and intimidation, and the lasting scars of emotional, physical, and psychological abuse. She goes into detail about the trial, revealing the emotional toll of facing her abuser in court and the painful ways the legal system often retraumatized her while she fought for justice and safety.
Through raw honesty, she highlights the hidden battles survivors face—financial struggles, fear of retaliation, and the long journey of trauma healing and abuse recovery. Yet, Lyndsey also shows the power of resilience, rebuilding her identity, creating a safe home for her children, and reclaiming her voice. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to survive domestic violence and the hope that healing and freedom are possible.
Lyndsey’s Socials
https://www.instagram.com/lyndseyh6723
https://www.instagram.com/living.inthe.aftermath
The Refuge Utah
https://www.instagram.com/therefugeutah
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233
Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center
U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program
Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.
https://www.domesticshelters.org
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lyndsey shares her powerful story as a survivor of domestic violence, opening up about the early signs of manipulation, control, and emotional abuse that slowly escalated into physical violence. She reflects on the devastating impact on her children, the painful cycle of leaving and returning, and the emotional toll of the justice system that often failed to protect her. Lyndsey recounts how the last and most severe instances of abuse occurred during COVID, when isolation and fear made escaping even harder.
Through raw honesty, she exposes the hidden realities of abusive relationships, the courage it takes to recognize red flags, and the strength required to finally break free. This conversation highlights the complexities of family dynamics, legal battles, and recovery, while showing the power of resilience and the importance of strong support systems. Lyndsey’s journey is one of survival, healing, and reclaiming her voice—and her story offers hope to anyone fighting to escape abuse.
Lyndsey’s Socials
https://www.instagram.com/lyndseyh6723
https://www.instagram.com/living.inthe.aftermath
The Refuge Utah
https://www.instagram.com/therefugeutah
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233
Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center
U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program
Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.
https://www.domesticshelters.org
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Marie Pizano is an author, filmmaker, producer, and passionate advocate for domestic violence survivors and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) awareness. As the founder of MVP3 Entertainment Group, she’s brought compelling stories to life—from serving as executive producer on the multi-award-winning documentary Momo: The Sam Giancana Story, to producing the feature film Shattered. In her memoir From Barefoot to Stilettos: It’s Not for Sissies, she reflects on her journey out of a high‑conflict divorce and emotional abuse toward healing, resilience, and purposeful storytelling. Through her media work—spanning film and community events—Marie highlights how authenticity, the arts, and community can empower individuals to transform adversity into their own “yes.”
Marie’s Socials and Links
https://www.instagram.com/mariemvp
https://frombarefoottostilettos.com
From Barefoot to Stilettos, It's Not For Sissies by Marie Pizano
12 Steps To Finding Your Yes by Marie Pizano
MVP3
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mariah Heller exposes what really happened to her when she was offered a deal with a major record label. She shares how the label took control of her image, silenced her voice, and used her past trauma as part of their branding—without her consent. Pressured to change her name, aesthetic, and personal narrative, she was told to lose weight and put on a strict diet under a label-assigned nutritionist.
She opens up about being silenced, manipulated, and nearly branded as a product of her pain. This is a raw look into music industry exploitation, mental health abuse, body image pressure, identity erasure, and the dangerous price of chasing a dream when the industry cares more about marketable trauma than authentic artistry.
Mariah’s Music and Business Socials:
Music
https://www.instagram.com/riahmusic
Business
https://www.instagram.com/pain_free_fitness
SAMHSA National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Danielle shares what it was like to live in an abusive marriage while silently battling depression, alcoholism, and the pressures of motherhood. During the Covid pandemic, she was raising her children, working from home, and struggling from alcoholism. In this episode, we talk about the emotional toll of high-functioning addiction, domestic violence, and what it means to live in survival mode for so long that it starts to feel normal. Danielle opens up about the moment she knew she had to leave, the guilt that followed, and the process of starting over—for herself and for her kids.
SAMHSA National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
The National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-SAFE or Text “START” to 88788
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.