In this special two-part Veterans Day episode, Heather Brown sits down with the Honorable Judge Richard M. King. A man whose journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the California courtroom is marked by courage, loss, and a lifelong sense of duty.Before becoming a prosecutor and judge, Richard King was just 19, a young man from the Midwest who enlisted in the Navy Seabees during the Vietnam War. In this first part, he shares his early childhood, his mother’s sacrifices, the decision that led him to enlist, and the unforgettable friendships that shaped his service.This isn’t just one man’s story... it’s a tribute to every veteran who served, and especially those who never came home.In honor of Veterans Day, we remember the fallen, celebrate the brave, and shine a light on the unseen stories of service and sacrifice.

In this continuation of her story, Jolene returns to share what healing looks like after surviving the life. From escaping exploitation to building a new identity, she reveals how community, faith, and holistic health helped her find freedom and purpose again.Heather Brown and Jolene discuss breaking generational cycles, the importance of physical activity in trauma recovery, and the role of community in rebuilding a life. Jolene opens up about her work in survivor advocacy, her business Horizons Holistic Healing, and how she is now helping others release the physical and emotional weight of their trauma.This episode is a reminder that healing is not only possible but within reach for every survivor. It’s about reclaiming your story, restoring what was stolen, and choosing wholeness over fear.Follow and SubscribeStay connected for more stories that expose darkness and bring hope to light. Listen and subscribe to Defeating the Darkness on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.Learn More About JoleneFollow Jolene and her work at Horizons Holistic Healing.Support Heather’s MissionOrder Heather Brown’s book Defeating the Darkness and learn more about her work at heatherbrownlaw.com

For sponsorship or guest inquiries, contact pete@creatorsdept.com.

At 18, Jolene met a man at Union Station who told her she was beautiful. What began as kindness turned into control and a decade of manipulation, exploitation, and pain. In this raw and courageous conversation, Heather Brown sits down with Jolene, a survivor who escaped the sex industry, rebuilt her life, and found faith, freedom, and purpose beyond the darkness.Jolene shares her journey from “the life” to a life redeemed. Raising her daughter, building survivor ministries, and helping shape national anti-trafficking initiatives through her work with Homeland Security and the Blue Campaign. Her story is one of heartbreak and healing, proof that no one is too far gone to find light again.This is part one of a two-part episode that exposes how coercion and false love can trap young women and how truth and faith can set them free.🎧 Follow & SubscribeDon’t miss part two of Jolene’s story and more real survivor stories. Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

In this chilling episode, Heather Brown sits down again with Dr. Leslie Dobson. Clinical and forensic psychologist, author, and host of Intentionally Disturbing. Here they'll unpack how online grooming can twist vulnerable minds toward the unthinkable.This isn’t about politics... it’s about the loss of life and the growing danger of digital radicalization. Together, Heather and Dr. Dobson explore the assassination of Charlie Kirk and how dark web communities prey on isolation, loneliness, and identity struggles to manipulate young people into chaos and violence.From online gaming platforms to extremist subcultures, Dr. Dobson reveals the psychological traps that lure teens into believing they belong until it’s too late. They also discuss her work on the new Oxygen/Peacock docuseries Death Row Confidential, her book The Friend Cleanse, and the critical need for parents to understand what’s really happening on their kids’ screens.This episode is a wake-up call for every parent, teacher, and advocate who believes awareness can save lives.🎧 Follow & SubscribeDon’t miss upcoming episodes of Defeating the Darkness exposing evil and shining light on truth.Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.Learn More About Dr. Leslie DobsonVisit drlesliedobson.com or listen to her show Intentionally Disturbing for more true forensic insights and survivor advocacy.Support Heather’s MissionGet Heather Brown’s book Defeating the Darkness and learn how faith and justice can bring healing after trauma.Visit heatherbrownlaw.comFor sponsorship opportunities, contact pete@creatorsdept.com.

Some stories are hard to hear but that’s exactly why they need to be told.In this chilling and necessary conversation, Dr. Leslie Dobson joins Heather to expose the unseen world of sexual abuse, trauma, and what really happens when the Dr. is in session. As a forensic psychologist, Dr. Dobson has worked with attackers, survivors, law enforcement, and the court system to not only help people heal but to hold predators accountable.In Part 1 of this two-part series, she shares her own experiences, the shocking truths behind many of her cases, and what we can all do to protect the vulnerable. It’s raw. It’s real. And it’s Intentionally Disturbing because staying silent helps no one.⸻NEXT STEPSFollow & Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube to hear both parts of this series and future episodes.Learn More About Dr. Leslie Dobson at www.drlesliedobson.com and follow her on Instagram @drlesliedobsonSupport Heather’s Mission: Get Defeating the Darkness and visit heatherbrownlaw.com to help expose evil and empower survivors.Support the PodcastDefeating the Darkness is more than a podcast... it’s a platform for truth, healing, and justice. If your brand or organization aligns with our mission of exposing evil and empowering survivors, we’d love to partner with you.Sponsorship Opportunities AvailableFrom episode sponsorships to featured mentions and social media integration, we offer impactful ways to reach an engaged, purpose-driven audience.📩 Email our Producer, Pete Campbell, at pete@creatorsdept.com to start the conversation.

When the bombs went off at the 2013 Boston Marathon, the world watched in horror. But behind the headlines was a team of federal agents racing against time to track down the perpetrators and former FBI agent Kristen Von KlonSmid was one of them.

In this gripping episode, Kristen joins Heather to share what it was really like to be on the ground during one of the most intense manhunts in American history. From identifying the suspects to supporting victims, and dealing with trauma herself. Kristen’s story gives us a rare look at the personal toll of public service.

She opens up about the emotional aftermath of the bombing, what it meant to serve during a national crisis, and how her work now focuses on healing those impacted by trauma, both in and out of the field.

Follow & Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube for more raw and redemptive stories.

Former SWAT operator and FBI agent Tom Brown returns to Defeating the Darkness with more stories from the frontlines. From training with flashbangs and shotguns to the chilling reality of the “funnel of death,” Tom breaks down the tactics, dangers, and split-second decisions that define survival in high-risk situations. He also shares wild behind-the-scenes moments, including FBI training trips to Russia, the truth about tasers, and what Hollywood always gets wrong about SWAT.This episode is a masterclass in courage, precision, and survival from someone who’s lived it.🎧 Follow & SubscribeDon’t miss future episodes of Defeating the Darkness. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes clips and survivor stories.📚 Support Heather’s MissionPick up Heather Brown’s book Defeating the Darkness at heatherbrownlaw.com Your support helps share stories of survival, justice, and hope.💙 Partner with UsWe’re currently seeking sponsors who align with our mission to expose darkness and empower survivors. Sponsorships include podcast mentions, social media features, and collaborative opportunities. For details, contact Heather at defeatingthedarknesspodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Defeating the Darkness, Heather Brown sits down with John Kelly, the larger-than-life founder of Kelly’s Smoke Shop in Tustin.

From opening his tobacco shop at just 17, to becoming the youngest city councilman in Tustin at 24, John’s story is packed with history, politics, colorful characters, and a lifelong passion for tobacco culture.

He shares wild tales about the rise of clove cigarettes, the social hub his shop became, run-ins with California’s tax system, and why he always told customers to “Smoke ‘Em Easy."

This episode blends true crime with business battles, cultural history, and John’s unapologetically bold take on life, law, and legacy.

What happens when your loved one is on trial but you’re the one seeking justice?In this special episode of Defeating the Darkness, Heather Brown sits down with criminal defense attorney Michael Molfetta to talk about the cases you don’t see on the news. The ones where families come to him not because they believe their loved one is innocent, but because they believe they still deserve a fair trial.Michael shares what it’s like to represent not just the accused, but the heartbroken families stuck in the middle of the system. From high-profile cases to quiet courtroom moments filled with desperation, this conversation explores justice, redemption, and why the legal system is never as black and white as it seems.⸻✅ NEXT STEPSFollow & Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube for weekly stories on justice, survival, and the unseen battles in the system.Learn More About Michael Molfetta at michaelmolfettalaw.comSupport Heather’s Mission: Get Defeating the Darkness and visit defeatingthedarkness.com to support survivor-led stories and justice reform.

After surviving a near-fatal undercover sting, former FBI agent Rob Preijers stepped out from behind the badge. In Part 2 of this powerful two-part series, Rob sits down with Heather to share the next chapter of his story: chasing mafia bosses, investigating spies, and ultimately turning his attention to the mental health crisis inside law enforcement.Rob pulls back the curtain on his time in counterintelligence, what really goes into psychological profiling, and how he became a forensic psychologist dedicated to helping others heal. From undercover IDs to court testimony to counseling trauma survivors. This is a story about what happens after the bullets stop flying… and the work of redemption begins.⸻NEXT STEPS• Follow & Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube to never miss a story.• Learn More or Connect with Rob: Email Dr. Preijers at drpreijers@gmail.com for psychological evaluations, expert witness services, or trauma support.• Support Heather’s Mission: Get Defeating the Darkness and visit heatherbrownlaw.com to help amplify stories that matter.

In this episode of Defeating the Darkness, Heather sits down with former FBI agent and police officer Rob Preijers to unpack one of the most harrowing nights of his life. Rob shares the gripping, real-life story of an undercover drug sting gone sideways. An operation that ended in a deadly shootout, a paralyzed suspect, and Rob barely escaping with his life.With raw honesty and sharp detail, Rob recounts how he kept his cool under unimaginable pressure, and how years of training and divine intervention may be the only reason he lived to tell the tale. From posing as a drug buyer to taking out two armed men in seconds, this episode gives you a rare inside look at what really goes down in the world of undercover ops.This is Part 1 of a two-part series. In the next episode, we explore Rob’s path to healing, his FBI career, and his current work as a forensic psychologist.⸻Next Steps:Follow & Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube so you don’t miss Part 2 and future survivor-led stories.

Learn More About Rob Preijers:

Visit Rob’s LinkedIn or search Robert D. Preijers to learn more about his private practice in forensic psychology.Support Heather’s Mission:

Get her book Defeating the Darkness or visit heatherbrownlaw.com to help shine a light on survivor stories and justice reform.

In this episode of Defeating the Darkness, Heather sits down with Julie Green, author of A Thousand Little Memories: A Mother’s Pilgrimage to Reclaim Joy After Traumatic Loss. Julie opens up about her journey through unthinkable grief, navigating the pain of loss while finding healing, faith, and hope along the way.Her story is a tender yet courageous reminder that even in the darkest valleys, joy can be rediscovered one step at a time. For every parent, survivor, or listener walking through loss, Julie’s words offer both comfort and strength.🎧 Follow & SubscribeDon’t miss future episodes—subscribe to Defeating the Darkness on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere you listen.Learn More About Julie GreenDiscover Julie’s book A Thousand Little Memories and her story at juliegreenhealing.com or on AmazonSupport Heather’s MissionOrder Heather’s book Defeating the Darkness at defeatingthedarkness.com.

Visit the website for resources, speaking engagements, and ways to support survivors.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Martha, founder of A Quarter Blue, we explore the journey of reclaiming value and purpose after trauma. Martha shares the hard but hope-filled process of healing, the power of speaking your truth, and why giving survivors both a voice and a choice changes lives. This is a conversation about courage, advocacy, and the kind of hope that turns pain into purpose.🎧 Follow & SubscribeDon’t miss the next powerful conversation—follow and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and leave a rating or review to help others discover these important stories.💙 Learn More About A Quarter BlueDiscover how A Quarter Blue is giving survivors a voice and a choice. Learn how you can get involved, support the mission, and access resources at aquarterblue.org.📚 Support Heather’s MissionOrder Heather’s book Defeating the Darkness and explore more resources and ways to connect at heatherbrownlaw.com.

For this episode, Heather sits down with Martha Wade, the founder of AQuarterBlue, an organization devoted to helping survivors of sexual abuse find healing, hope, and a voice.

Martha opens up about her own story, what led her to create the nonprofit, and how her team is working to educate, equip, and empower individuals and communities through trauma informed care and advocacy.

Whether you’re a survivor, an ally, or someone who wants to understand more... this conversation is honest, emotional, and deeply inspiring.

Learn more about A Quarter Blue at: https://aquarterblue.org

If this episode moved you, like, comment, and share it.

Subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2 of this important conversation.

Join Heather Brown in Episode 46 of Defeating the Darkness as she sits down with Brady Finta, former FBI Special Agent turned forensic accountant extraordinaire. Together, they dig into the art of following the money. From shell corporations and offshore accounts to elaborate embezzlement schemes. Learn how Brady and his team unravel complex financial webs, use data analytics to pinpoint wrongdoing, and work alongside law enforcement to turn paper trails into airtight cases.Whether you’re curious about how everyday accounting practices can expose massive fraud or fascinated by real-world stories of corporate deception, this episode delivers a front-row seat to the “ledger detective” trade.⸻🔗 Listen & Watch:▶️ YouTube • 🎧 Spotify • 🍏 Apple Podcasts💻 Visit HeatherBrownLaw.com for more resources📚 Get Heather’s book Defeating the Darkness on Amazon

In Episode 45, Heather Brown sits down with Gina L. Osborn. She's a former FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge and U.S. Army Intelligence Officer.

This conversation cover things about cybercrime, cartels, and leadership in high stakes investigations. With decades of experience chasing down hackers, Gina offers an inside look into the digital threats facing our world and the mindset needed to lead under pressure.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in law enforcement, cybersecurity, and the stories behind the scenes that rarely get told.

🎧 Available now on all streaming platforms.

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories from inside the justice system.

📩 For inquiries or speaking requests, visit HeatherBrownLaw.com

📚 Order Heather’s book Defeating the Darkness on Amazon

In this episode, Heather Brown sits down with former Orange County Homicide Investigator Bob Taft for an unfiltered look into the world of homicide investigations. With decades of experience under his belt, Bob shares what it really takes to track down killers, the emotional weight of confronting violent crime, and how he processed the toll these cases took on his own life.From the adrenaline of chasing leads to the sobering reality of crime scenes, this conversation explores the heart and grit behind the badge. This isn’t just about solving murders. It’s about what justice costs, and what it means to carry the stories of victims long after the case is closed.⸻🔗 Next Steps:Watch now on YouTubeListen on Apple & SpotifySubscribe, Like, Comment & ShareVisit HeatherBrownLaw.comOrder Heather’s book Defeating the Darkness on Amazon

In Episode 43 of Defeating the Darkness, Heather Brown sits down with longtime friend and fellow attorney Jeffrey “Sally” Salberg for a conversation about what it really takes to seek justice in some of the most heartbreaking and high stakes cases.Heather opens up about her time in the courtroom sharing powerful stories of child abuse, domestic violence, and homicide cases that changed her forever. Together, they unpack what it’s like working inside a legal system that often fails the very people it’s meant to protect.This episode isn’t about headlines, it’s about the real work, the hard truths, and the emotional cost of standing up for survivors.🎧 Available now on all platforms.📘 Grab Heather’s book Defeating the Darkness on Amazon🌐 Learn more: HeatherBrownLaw.com📲 Subscribe, Comment & Share to help us expose the darkness and fight for justice.

In the final part of this gripping 3-part series, former Detective Ryan Peters and Heather Brown go even deeper into the aftermath of a brutal case that tested everything from investigative skill to emotional endurance.

Ryan reflects on the toll this case took on him personally, the lessons learned, and why writing his book LEFT became a critical step in processing trauma and reclaiming truth.

This is more than a case file. This is what it means to fight for justice, survive darkness, and keep going.

🎧 Listen now on all platforms

📘 Grab LEFT by Ryan Peters on Amazon or at ladyjusticepress.com

🔗 Connect with Heather at heatherbrownlaw.com

The hunt for evil continues in Part 2 of our chilling conversation with former Detective Ryan Peters, author of LEFT. In this episode, Detective Ryan Peters shares deeper insights from one of the most traumatic cases of his career. See how it shaped his views on justice, trauma, and the human capacity for survival. We explore the moment when truth met tactics, the toll this work takes on the people behind the badge, and the path that led Ryan to write his story his way.🎧 Available now on all major platforms📘 Grab LEFT by Ryan Peters on Amazon🔗 Connect with Heather at heatherbrownlaw.com➡️ Like, share, comment, and subscribe to support stories that shine a light in the darkest places.