Shows
Beyond The LabelDr. Celia Williamson on Breaking Labels & Fighting Human Trafficking | Beyond the Label Ep. 6đ Support the mission through the Vital Health Store: www.vitalhealthmerch.com Every purchase helps us break barriers and support families in our community. ➻ "Sometimes being hardheaded is the only way forward." Dr. Celia Williamson grew up in Toledo surrounded by limits, labels, and redlined neighborhoods. She was told she wouldn't make it past her block â but she refused to listen. T oday, she's recognized as one of the top social workers in the world, a University of Toledo professor, and a leading voice in the global fight against human trafficking. In this epi...
2025-08-2858 min
Emancipation NationEpisode 202: Insights from the 20th Annual Human Trafficking and Social Justice ConferenceSend us a textWant to know more about one of the most significant events in the fight against human trafficking? Join us on a fascinating journey as we discuss the highlights of the 20th annual Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference with our esteemed guest, Anna Schram. We explore the incredible success of the conference, which welcomed 1,400 attendees from 27 countries and 49 states. Hear about the thought-provoking tribute to Dr. Celia Williamson, and a stirring video featuring survivors' experiences. Learn about the innovative use of gamification and our virtual platform, which created a more interactive and engaging...
2023-12-0532 minEmancipation NationEpisode 201: Understanding Obstacles in Human Trafficking Victim Recovery: Housing and TransportationSend us a textEver wonder why some victims of human trafficking struggle to escape their situation, even when help is available? Tune into our Emancipation Nation episode 201 and allow us to shed light on two fundamental barriers that often impede victims from receiving the assistance they desperately need: transportation and housing. In this episode we unravel the significance of these basic needs and how their inadequacy can hinder victims' journey towards healing and freedom.In this enlightening discussion, we navigate the different types of housing solutions for victims, ranging from temporary shelters to transitional...
2023-11-2818 minEmancipation NationEpisode 200: Screening and Assessing the Needs of Victims of Human Trafficking: 10 Common Areas of NeedSend us a textIn this episode, we equip you with vital knowledge about what to screen and assess for when assisting victims of human trafficking. Our trusted guide is none other than Dr. Celia Williamson, director of the Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute at the University of Toledo. She shines a light on a recently revised screening tool designed to identify at-risk and currently trafficked youth. This episode will help you recognize the 10 vital areas where trafficking victims may require assistance, such as basic needs, safety, orientation, education, and legal aid.Ever puzzled o...
2023-11-2121 min
Friday Night MomsCelia & Danielle Return from Podcast HiatusWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a podcast for moms who can get it in when they can fit it in! Weâre your hosts, Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIt's been a minute since we recorded an episode (hide's face). Call it a hiatus or a quick break, but we're excited to catch up with you! The boys ar...
2023-10-0849 minFriday Night MomsBeing a Mompreneur and Hitting $1M+ w/ Donyale Walton (Part 2)Welcome to Friday Night Moms, a podcast for moms who can get it in when they can fit it in! Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode Highlights/SummaryAs part 2 of our conversation with Donyale Walton, CEO of the Black Culture staple, Hoop Mobb, we discuss the many sides of being a mompreneur. We cover the up...
2023-10-0641 minFriday Night MomsCo-Parenting & Being a #GirlMom w/ Donyale Walton (Part 1)Welcome to Friday Night Moms, a podcast for moms who can get it in when they can fit it in! Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode Highlights/SummaryBack in May of 2022, we sat down with Donyale Walton, CEO of the Black Culture staple, Hoop Mobb. She joined us to discuss pregnancy and her journey to po...
2023-10-0648 minEmancipation NationEpisode 193: Embracing Fear to Live Your DreamsSend us a textWhat if embracing the fear and excitement of change could be your ladder to success? Join us as we swing on the metaphoric trapeze of life, exploring the thrilling yet terrifying moments of transition. Dr. Celia prompts us to face our fears, take the plunge and appreciate the expansive moments that accompany these changes. She shares some of her journey from poverty to renowned academic as a testament to the power of embracing change and relentlessly chasing your dreams.
2023-10-0312 minEmancipation NationEpisode 189: The Disturbing Truth about Organ TraffickingSend us a textDare to step into the chilling underworld of organ trafficking with me, Dr. Celia Williamson. This harrowing journey paints a stark picture of how human organs are commercially traded outside of the recognized medical system, a realm where profit trumps ethics. Gain insight into how this horrific form of exploitation occurs. Brace yourself as we lift the veil on the shocking prices attached to human organs and the astronomical value of the organ trafficking industry.Later in the segment I delve into the grim realities underlying organ trafficking. Witness the stark...
2023-09-0514 minEmancipation NationEpisode 182: Uniting Against Injustice: A Sneak Peak at the Upcoming 20th Annual Human Trafficking ConferenceSend us a textHow can you be a part of the solution in the fight against human trafficking and the promotion of social justice globally? Join me, Dr. Celia Williamson with conference co-host Anna Schramm, to explore the exciting line-up of our 20th annual International Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference. Mark your calendars for September 20th to 22nd, and join us in making a difference!
2023-07-1833 minEmancipation NationEpisode 180: From Darkness to Light: Changing Africa with InnovationSend us a textDiscover how Innovation Africa is transforming lives by providing electricity and clean water to rural African communities in our conversation with Michal Smith, Director of Communications for the organization. Learn about their incredible impact on over 4 million people across 10 African countries since 2008, and how their dedicated team members, Israeli technology, and local contractors are key to their success and sustainability.In the second part of our episode, Celia reveals ways to get involved with Innovation Africa through fundraising and travel opportunities - even small contributions can go a long way! We...
2023-06-2724 minFriday Night MomsNormalizing Blended Families w/ Courtney OttrixWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.In this episode, we're joined by a special guest, Courtney Ottrix, millennial wife and mom, author, and owner of Courtney Covers Cleveland. As a mother of 4 kids, Courtney walks us through her very different pr...
2022-11-301h 23Friday Night MomsTherapy & Healing Work w/ AseanteÌ ReneeWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we're joined by a special guest, AseantĂ© Renee, licensed therapist, founder of the Axon Group, and Executive Director of the Susu House. We discuss the many ways we...
2022-10-2146 minFriday Night MomsMommy ChaosWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.In this episode, we test out Zoom podcasting for the first time, and we think we have the hang of it! We catch up on milestones our kids have reached, and share recent mama wi...
2022-09-3031 min
Frankie Files PodcastFrankie Files Podcast ~ Ep. 32 ~ Celia Williamson PhD 30 Years of Anti-Human Trafficking ActivismCelia Williamson interviewed me on her podcast which focuses on human & sex trafficking. Her podcast is called Emancipation Nation cuz she's into freeing slaves. I'm on ep. 159 telling my story. We will explore the arena of human trafficking from a 30 year expert in the field in the state of Ohio, but also federally. A bit about this powerhouse.Celia Williamson, Ph.D.Distinguished University Professor of Social Work and Director of the Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute Celia Williamson is well-known for her community advocacy against human trafficking and domestic violence, along with her extensive research into the issue...
2022-09-0642 minFrankie Files PodcastFrankie Files Podcast ~ Ep. 32 ~ Celia Williamson PhD 30 Years of Anti-Human Trafficking ActivismCelia Williamson interviewed me on her podcast which focuses on human & sex trafficking. Her podcast is called Emancipation Nation cuz she's into freeing slaves. I'm on ep. 159 telling my story. We will explore the arena of human trafficking from a 30 year expert in the field in the state of Ohio, but also federally. A bit about this powerhouse.Celia Williamson, Ph.D.Distinguished University Professor of Social Work and Director of the Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute Celia Williamson is well-known for her community advocacy against human trafficking and domestic violence, along with her extensive research into the issue...
2022-09-0642 minFriday Night MomsFibroids and Motherhood w/ Rosco SpearsWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.In this episode, we're joined by a special guest, Rosco Spears, artist and Partner/Creative Director at the Lip Bar. Rosco shares her journey with fibroids, including heavy bleeding, awkward period moments, myomectomies, and he...
2022-09-021h 27Friday Night MomsBed, Bath & Beyond: Our Favorite Baby ProductsWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we share a round-up of all of our suggested must-have products new families need during the first year of their baby's life. We're mostly aligned on our pi...
2022-07-081h 12Friday Night MomsI Am Not My HairWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode Highlights/SummaryIn this episode, we're talking about our hair journeys, our kids' hair, and the products we love for textured hair. We also share our pregnancy protective styles and postpartum ha...
2022-07-0126 minFriday Night MomsBreast is BestWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we discuss the formula crisis and our respective experiences with breastfeeding. We also share our thoughts about lactation consultants, mommy groups, and breastfeeding in public.Li...
2022-06-1032 minFriday Night MomsWhat's Good in the Hood?Welcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we share updates about our respective lives in Cleveland and New York. Danielle puts her son Gunnar to work, (literally!), and she opens up about her thoughts on...
2022-06-031h 05Friday Night MomsSleep TrainingWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryJoin us as we talk about all things sleep training. We discuss the moment we decided to sleep train, the dreaded 4-month and 6-month sleep regression, and how far we'll go...
2022-05-1947 minFriday Night MomsGo Girl To No GirlWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode Highlights/SummaryJoin us as we share our âhot mom to tepid/lukewarm momâ stories. We relive our glory days and talk about how our frugal crew, âFlasks and Fifthsâ, got together f...
2022-05-1337 minFriday Night MomsThe Fourth QuarterWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a weekly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.ï»żEpisode SummaryJoin us as we break down all of the ailments we've experienced during the 4th quarter of motherhood. We're talking runaway edges, return of the period, and vaginal issues. The conv...
2022-04-2859 minFriday Night MomsA COVID ChristmasWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a monthly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode Highlights/SummaryIn this episode, we chat about how the Omarion variant of COVID turned our Christmas plans upside down. We also commiserate about who packs for baby before vacation, the be...
2022-04-2233 minFriday Night MomsCelia's Birth Story: This is all lovely, but I need the drugsWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a monthly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Celia shares her birth story. Celiaâs labor rapidly progressed and though she advocated for herself, so many factors were out of her control during the labor and...
2022-04-151h 05Friday Night MomsDanielle's Birth Story: Biii*tch, seven more hours?!!Welcome to Friday Night Moms, a monthly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Danielle shares her birth story. Itâs a four-day journey of twists and turns. Danielle goes from watching sports in a comfy corner hospital room with a grea...
2022-04-0848 minFriday Night MomsChirping Birds are the Enemy of the StateWelcome to Friday Night Moms, a monthly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. Weâre your hosts Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store, Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Episode Highlights/SummaryThis week, weâre talking about the sun, chirping birds, and other seemingly normal things that keep our babies awake at all the wrong times. We also chat about real...
2022-04-0120 minFriday Night MomsFriday Night Moms TrailerThanks for tuning in to the Friday Night Moms podcast! Weâre your hosts, Celia and Danielle, long-time friends, entrepreneurs, and #boymoms. Celia is an interior designer and owner of the online concept store Sticki Icki, and Danielle is a social entrepreneur, marketer, photo producer, and owner of a photography production agency.Friday Night Moms is a monthly podcast where we grab drinks and unpack the new normal of motherhood. In this trailer, we share a little about ourselves, how we met, and why we started this podcast. We also tell you what to expect in f...
2022-03-3103 min
The Fierce Freedom PodcastRebroadcast: Finding Your Seat at the Table - Feat. Dr. Celia WilliamsonFor today's rebroadcasted episode we invited Dr. Celia Williamson, named one of the top 30 most influential social workers alive today, with over 25 years of anti-trafficking experience. Celia discusses her exciting new project, The Emancipation Nation Network â a free, rapidly growing network to equip and connect various professionals working for freedom and justice. This network includes topics, discussions, anti-trafficking events, and shared resources all in one place, a complete game changer for those in the movement to more effectively use our "collective power" in a community-based setting. Become a member today by visiting https://members.emancipationnationnetwork.com ...
2021-09-2158 minEmancipation NationEpisode 100: 100th Episode: The Tables Have TurnedSend us a textAfter interviewing many guests from across the U.S. and around the world, Dr. Williamson answers questions about her work, why she started the podcast, her self-care routine and many more. Tune in! No question was off limits in this episode.
2021-06-1549 minEmancipation NationEpisode 99: Nurse Practitioner by Trade and Advocate Collaborator by ChoiceSend us a textAnti-trafficking coalitions are often the critical core of local anti-trafficking work in a community. Dr. Celia McIntosh discusses the Rochester Regional Coalition Against Human Trafficking in New York and their work to address human trafficking in their community. Because of her expertise in health care, she has also established a healthcare protocol and informs the policies and practices in her community to identify and respond to victims of human trafficking.Â
2021-06-0840 minEmancipation NationEpisode 64: The Highlights from the 2020 Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference: How we Plan and Execute a Global Conference Part ISend us a textOur 17th annual International Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference this year was a huge success with over 99 presenters and 2,300 in attendance from a total of 43 U.S. states and 19 countries. Listen to how the conference got started, the structure, how we plan it, and highlights from this massive three-day event, all virtual this year.
2020-09-2946 minEmancipation NationEpisode 63: Enjoy the âBecause You Caredâ Thank you Message to all Anti-Trafficking Advocates Across the U.S. and Around the World!Send us a textThis is a short 8-minute episode devoted to you! Come on! Youâve worked hard. Open your heart and allow someone to genuinely and sincerely say thank you to you. Also, please feel free to share this with others in the fight and let them know you appreciate them and what they do to help others.Â
2020-09-2208 minEmancipation NationEpisode 62: Still I Rise with Rhonelle BruderSend us a textRhonelle Bruder is an award-winning international speaker, advocate, writer, and founder of the RISE Program in Canada. RISE is a grassroots initiative that empowers vulnerable youth. Rhonelle discusses her life as a survivor and the RISE program, which is a survivor-led project that is trauma-informed and culturally responsive. They work to be inclusive and to empower survivors to thrive.Â
2020-09-1535 minEmancipation NationEpisode 61: Is this an Example of Overzealous Advocacy or Good Anti-Trafficking Law? You Decide. Part II of Breyonna JonesSend us a textThe week we present the second half of our interview with Breyonna Jones, a victim of sex trafficking who was raped, beaten, and traumatized by family, friends, and traffickers, only to later be convicted for a trafficking-related offense. Get an inside view of what happens to a traffickerâs life and what we produce when we rush to pass trafficking laws that inadvertently incarcerate the victimized, mentally ill, and abused populations without deep consideration for the collateral damage we may cause.Â
2020-09-0830 minEmancipation NationEpisode 60: Ways We Shoot our Wounded in the Anti-Trafficking Movement that Have to StopSend us a textImagine a little girl with hopes and dreams of living a safe, healthy and productive life of healing animals as a veterinarian. Then imagine being molested and silenced by your family, raped as an adolescent, blamed for your rape, rejected and abandoned by your family as a result, trafficked, physically brutalized, and made you give all of your money and time to your trafficker. The only system that enters your life labels you a trafficker and repeats what is familiar by degrading, shaming, and taking your freedom. In the anti-trafficking movement we would...
2020-09-0132 minEmancipation NationEpisode 59: The Hard Road: How to Disrupt the Sex Buying Market OnlineSend us a textIn 2010, Tom Perez began his anti-trafficking fight and noticed that while men are the primary drivers behind the demand for sexual exploitation, very few were involved in combating it. The EPIK Project brings men into the fight in effective and sustainable ways. In collaboration with the Portland Police Bureau, Tom took the hard road to build and lead an all-volunteer effort thatâs grown into a national movement. As such, the Epik Project has successfully intercepted more than 170,000 attempts to purchase sex by over 85,000 buyers over the last 6 years. Training men how to en...
2020-08-2532 minEmancipation NationEpisode 58: How to Become a Great Presenter and Learn to Captivate Your Audience with Public Speaking Coach Nancy HardcastleSend us a textGetting your message across is just as important as the message itself. Learning to be a great public speaker is a skill. We all have blind spots and could become better presenters. Perhaps you have a great message, are passionate about the work, and are making a difference, but your presentation skills could be improved. A poor presentation baffles your audience, diminishes your efforts, and hurts the movement. How you package and deliver your message is as critical as the message itself and people need to receive both you and your message with...
2020-08-1842 minEmancipation NationEpisode 57: Does the Recipe for Freedom Only Involve the Four âPâsâ of Human Trafficking: Prosecution, Prevention, Protection and Partnership? What about Power and Privilege? Part IISend us a textThe need to move from a rescue and restore paradigm to a human rights paradigm is ever present. Early on in the U.S. the human trafficking movement began as a white movement made up of second wave feminists and evangelicals who saw criminal justice as allies in an attempt to solve the problem of slavery. This led to a doubling down of white privilege, enforcement, and patrol of people of color. To end human trafficking, we need to address root causes and create sustainable emancipation. In asking the question âWhat are we no...
2020-08-1131 minEmancipation NationEpisode 56: How do We Reach Sustainable Emancipation? Simply Arresting all the Bad Guys Wonât Get us There. Part 1Send us a textWithin his series of books, âThe Good Droneâ, âWhat Slaveholders Thinkâ, and âFrom Human Trafficking to Human Rightsâ, scholar Dr. Choi-Fitzpatrick challenges us to think about slavery and forced labor in a deeper and more complex way. From using Drones to count brick kilns In India as a way of developing prevalence to shifting our perspective from ârescue and restoreâ to âhuman rightsâ, Dr. Choi-Fitzpatrick leads us on an enlightening and powerful journey to the center of our purpose. An empowering and thought provoking episode that may change your perspective on slavery and open you up to a new...
2020-08-0425 minEmancipation NationEpisode 55: "The Turn Out": Realistic Portrayal of Sex Trafficking in Small Town AmericaSend us a textSex trafficking involves wealthy girls who leave the country only to be trafficked by foreigners with no one else to save them except Liam Neeson because they have been "TAKEN" right? Blockbuster hit, reality disaster! "The Turn Out", new film by Director Pearl Gluck, lays out the realities of sex trafficking and how it happens in small town America. After several months working closely with survivors and anti-trafficking advocates, Gluck provides a riveting and disturbing, yet real portrayal of the realities of sex trafficking in the U.S. The Turn Out premieres this...
2020-07-2841 minEmancipation NationEpisode 54: At What Cost to Victims Should Traffickers be Brought to Justice and are For-Profit Prisons Engaged in Labor Trafficking?Send us a textThrough focused research, the Human Rights Legal Center found that many times victims, in the U.S., have been forced to testify against their trafficker in order for the state to win the case, regardless of the trauma the victim suffered or their willingness to testify. This âforceâ is in direct opposition to a victim-centered and trauma informed approach and is seemingly more aligned with the lack of freedom the victim was subjected to under the control of a trafficker. It is suspected that some victims may not be informed of their rights under...
2020-07-2126 minEmancipation NationEpisode 53: When Survivors have Lawyers, Survivors have RightsSend us a textWhen survivors have lawyers, survivors have rights: This is the mission of the Human Trafficking Legal Center located in Washington, DC. The Legal Center has a database of every federal civil and criminal human trafficking case in the U.S. since 2009. They use this information to study trends in human trafficking, identify gaps, and advocate for change. In this episode, Deputy Director Sara Bessell, discusses some of the most critical trends occurring in the U.S. including the targeting by traffickers of those with disabilities, domestic violence and trafficking, and arresting victims in...
2020-07-1424 minEmancipation NationEpisode 52: 3Strands Braided Together to Create a Tapestry of Large Scale Anti-Trafficking WorkSend us a textAshlie Bryant entered the prison system to learn from those who knew the most, the traffickers. She learned what they think, do, and say to manipulate youth. She and her two colleagues developed the 3Strands Global Foundation that focuses on anti-trafficking education, empowerment, and engagement. Using keen strategies and masterful principles, they serve as the force behind many positive interventions occurring across the states of California, Utah, and Texas. The success behind this work is credited to all of the diverse and invested stakeholders coming together to collaborate and do their part to...
2020-07-0750 minEmancipation NationEpisode 51: Moving out of Your Comfort Zone to Answer the CallSend us a textHeidi Wilt, decorator by trade with a heart for those in need, was called to help survivors meet their basic needs and achieve their goals. Only a short time later, Heidi found herself actually running a Drop-In Center called Alabaster Gift, located in a secret location for survivors. Heidi knows that she is there for a season and will soon hand over the reins to someone else. However, the work she has done during her short tenure changed the lives of some survivors. Taking on the challenge to lead, enables both you and...
2020-06-3031 minEmancipation NationEpisode 50: Advice from the O.G. in the Fight Against Youth Trafficking in the U.S.Send us a textFor the 50th Episode, the Emancipation Nation brings you the anti-trafficking pioneer, Dr. Lois Lee. Dr. Lee began her work fighting youth sex trafficking in the early 70s on the streets of Hollywood and to date, has 41 years of experience. Her pioneering work blazed the trail that other anti-trafficking advocates follow today. From suing the LAPD for not arresting customers to her involvement trying to save women from the Hillside strangler, Dr. Lee is a force for to be reckoned with. It was during this time that she found out that children were i...
2020-06-2332 minEmancipation NationEpisode 49: Do you Know Who Your Are Serving? How to Get Culturally Sensitive to Best Serve Trafficking VictimsSend us a textNot being culturally educated and sensitive is like telling your client that their history of oppression, experiences, traditions, and values they hold sacred, arenât important to you or the helping process. When that happens, one of the two parties are ignorant to the healing power of culture and how to use it as a strength and tool in the helping process. Cultural ignorance is unconsciously destructive and translates into misunderstandings that create barriers to the helping process. This episode is devoted to the opportunity to be effective and stay woke.
2020-06-1629 minEmancipation NationEpisode 48: Me? Publish my Anti-Trafficking Work in a Scholarly Journal?Send us a textEver thought of publishing an article in a journal, but didnât know how to go about it? Ever heard of a double-blind review? Want to be an article reviewer for a journal? Meet Editor-in-Chief Dr. Rochelle Dalla, who understands both the difficulty and the richness in studying and working with hard-to-reach populations. She honors that sentiment through her own past research with Native Americans, women in street prostitution, and more recently with sex trafficked women in Mumbai. She also serves as the founder and Editor-in-Chief of the international Journal of Human Trafficking, wh...
2020-06-0946 minEmancipation NationEpisode 47: Protests have Always Been a Right of the Disenfranchised: So Why Donât Anti-Trafficking Advocates Typically Protest?Send us a textThis episode focuses on the numerous protests in the U.S. surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement and discusses the importance of protest, and what and why they are happening. In addition, the episode focuses on why anti-trafficking advocates donât typically use protest as a form of intervention and why it might eventually become inevitable.
2020-06-0236 min
The Fierce Freedom PodcastFinding Your Seat at the Table - Feat. Dr. Celia WilliamsonIn honor of our 15th episode we invited Dr. Celia Williamson, named one of the top 30 most influential social workers alive today, with over 25 years of anti-trafficking experience. Celia discusses her exciting new project, The Emancipation Nation Network â a free, rapidly growing network to equip and connect various professionals working for freedom and justice. This network includes topics, discussions, anti-trafficking events, and shared resources all in one place, a complete game changer for those in the movement to more effectively use our âcollective powerâ in a community-based setting. Become a member today by visiting https://members.emancipationnationnetwork.com
2020-06-0100 minEmancipation NationEpisode 46: The Five Most Common Questions and Associated Fears of Anti-Trafficking Advocates and Critical Solutions to Address ThemSend us a textThere are five common questions and associated fears that anti-trafficking advocates have about the work they do. These fears lead to significant barriers that serve to block our progress and speak to the heart of the problems in the movement. In this episode these fears are exposed, discussed, and potential solutions provided.
2020-05-2641 minEmancipation NationEpisode 45: Getting to Know Me: Fears, Warts, and Accomplishments and the Exciting New Emancipation Nation Network!Send us a textThis week we are set to reach 10,000 Emancipation Nation Podcast downloads! I celebrate by sharing some little known facts about myself, how the podcast started, and reveal the exciting new and free Emancipation Nation Network, an online network and downloadable app developed just for you to connect with other advocates across the U.S. and around the world. On the Network you'll find human trafficking focused topics, groups, jobs, grants, research, and over 250 anti-trafficking advocates to connect with on various levels. In addition, find online workshops and courses designed to train you on...
2020-05-1924 minEmancipation NationEpisode 44: Answering the Call Creates Life Changing Results: Part II of Advocate Patrick Atkinson's Life on the Front LinesSend us a textPatrick Atkison, the founder of Godschild.org, an organization that helps thousands of children in poverty in El Salvador, Gutamala, India, and more. Started by Patrick, who while in college volunteered on a crisis line to meet college girls who also volunteered. There he did find the love of his life, which was the love of helping children. Enjoy the conclusion of Patrick Atkinson's career that spans across continents to help some of the most vulnerable children in the world. Patrick takes on the challenges that are in front of him and becomes...
2020-05-1237 minEmancipation NationEpisode 43: Safety as a Right for Children, Not a Privilege: On the Front Lines with Advocate Patrick Atkinson. Part ISend us a textWhile in college, preparing for the world of work, Patrick Atkinson volunteered to answer phones to help people in crisis. Little did he know that answering âthe callâ would lead him to become the worldâs emergency room worker, triaging and healing some of the worldâs most vulnerable children. Throughout his career, he has taken great risk to his own personal safety to locate runaways in Times Square when it was crawling with drugs, crime, predators, and vulnerable youth. He worked in war torn Guatemala and El Salvador, entering dangerous territory to rescue c...
2020-05-0525 minEmancipation NationEpisode 42: Child Marriage: A Hidden Form of Slavery and Sexual ExploitationSend us a textChild marriage is a reality for girls (and boys) around the world. It is defined as formal marriage or informal unions before the age of 18. South Asia is known to have the highest number of child marriages in the world, but it happens all over the world, including the U.S. In fact, only two U.S. states have laws against child marriage. Within the last 20 years, the youngest recorded U.S. marriage was with a 10 year old child. Genevieve Meyer, founder and Director of the Resiliency Foundation, is a survivor of child...
2020-04-2839 minEmancipation NationEpisode 41: A Wake-Up Call: When Excellence and Genius CollideSend us a textThrough an unconventional lens, Dev Tandon, founder of the OBO Movement, takes us through his philosophy of business and his progressive concepts for a greater, more equitable future for all. While Dev is not directly involved in anti-trafficking work, he explains how the complete reversal of business-as-usual could impact the future of sex and labor trafficking, as well as provide advocates with an equitable and livable income. This visionary and his OBO Movement says seek to make a difference first, and be paid a great salary to do meaningful work. Â
2020-04-2137 minEmancipation NationEpisode 40: The Healing Journey, the Equality Model, and the Empower Center in NYSend us a textIt is typical for advocates to get involved in anti-trafficking work on many fronts and Marie DeLeon is no different. Marie is a survivor that is now giving back by helping survivors explore their own healing journey through workshops in New York City. She is also a part of the New Yorkers for the Equality Model, a political group comprised of allies, service providers, and survivor leaders in the New York area who advocate and support the Equality Model of law. She explains the model and presents her reasons why the Equality Model a...
2020-04-1431 minEmancipation NationEpisode 39: Why Shelters for Victims Fail and How to Offer Stable and Effective Shelter ServicesSend us a textStable and safe housing is the foundation upon which all effective anti-trafficking programming and successful recovery is built. Yet housing is the number one barrier to providing effective recovery services to victims. The Samaritan Women's Institute for Shelter Care studies the issue of housing and human trafficking victims. Their findings? There are serious gaps between the number of victims and the available beds for those that need them. The Alliance estimates there are approximately 136 programs and agencies across the U.S. whose sole mission is to provide shelter to victims of trafficking. Thirteen...
2020-04-0738 minEmancipation NationEpisode 38 Part II: Taking Care of the HealersSend us a textTaryn Hughes, founder of Forest, Hughes, and Associates, continues her conversation with us on compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. She shares with us the step-by-step process of introducing training to an organization and reveals that at some workplaces, secondary traumatic stress is being categorized as an occupational hazard. Taryn shares some suggestions on self-care as well as some upcoming conferences and presentations for listeners to attend.
2020-03-3129 minEmancipation NationEpisode 37 Part 1: Answering the Call to Take Care of Traumatized and Fatigued HealersSend us a textTaryn Hughes is the founder of Forest, Hughes, and Associates in New York, a company that assesses vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress in the workplace and brings organizations the healing they need. Beginning with a thorough assessment, these trained healers prescribe interventions that focus on traumatized and stressed agencies and compassion fatigued executives and front line workers. While we try and continue to help victims in these precarious times of coronavirus, many of us are no doubt currently experiencing trauma and compassion fatigue ourselves. Taryn speaks about what to look for, the...
2020-03-2426 minEmancipation NationEpisode 36: Data for Good: Using Science as a Gift to Help Organizations Fight Human TraffickingSend us a textOn todayâs episode, we are hosting David Corliss, who holds a Ph.D. in statistical astrophysics and is the founder and director of Peace-Work. Peace-Work, as David will explain, is a volunteer cooperative organization of statisticians across the U.S. These statisticians are full-time professionals in various fields, who volunteer at Peace-Work spending their time partnering with organizations to fight human trafficking as well as other social justice issues. Coming from a long line of advocates and social reformers himself, David walks us through the various ways that his organization helps grass ro...
2020-03-1720 minEmancipation NationEpisode 35: New American Cuisine prepared by New Americans: Emma's Torch Restaurant in BrooklynSend us a textKerry Brodie, founder and executive director of Emmaâs Torch, joins us at the mic. Emmaâs Torch is a nonprofit restaurant, cafĂ©, and catering business in Brooklyn, New York that provides culinary training and job placement services to refugees and survivors of human trafficking. Kerry and her restaurant have been featured in world renown media such as the New Yorker, Rachel Ray, the New York Times, and Vogue Magazine, to name a few. Kerry walks us through the process of how students can enter the program, what happens, and where they can go af...
2020-03-1026 min
6 FIGURE SOCIAL WORKERSo You Want a PhD; with Celia WilliamsonCelia Williamson is the Author of "A seat at the table." She is an extinguished professor at the University of Toledo and the Executive Director of the Human Trafficking Institute. If you are interested in more information concerning PhD in the field of Social Work please reach out to Dr. Williamson at celia@celiawilliamsom.com
2020-03-0921 minEmancipation NationEpisode 34: SWOP Behind Bars: Helping Incarcerated Sex Workers Inside and Once ReleasedSend us a textDr. Jill McCracken and Alex Andrews are co-founders of Sex Worker Outreach Project Behind Bars (SWOP-Behind Bars). Jill has over 15 years of experience researching the sex trade and Alex has experience being incarcerated for consensual sex work. These two come together to create an informative and, for some, eye-opening conversation about setting aside judgement of those in the sex industry that are there by choice and welcome the opportunity to dialogue. SWOP Behind Bars provides services for those incarcerated as a result of being involved in the commercial sex industry, including a letter...
2020-03-0334 minEmancipation NationEpisode 33: The Freedom Center in Cincinnati: Raising Awareness in Creative Ways that you could doSend us a textIn this weekâs episode, we welcome Jonathan Turbin to the mic. Jonathan earned his PhD in cultural anthropology at the University of Oregon. Currently, he is the coordinator of Initiatives Against Modern Day Slavery at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Much of their work is geared toward raising awareness while also being actively involved in educating and inspiring individuals to get involved in the anti-trafficking fight. Jonathan organizes art installations, gallery talks, and "activation station's" to promote awareness of human trafficking. The Freedom Center's latest work? Motel X. Le...
2020-02-2537 minEmancipation NationEpisode 32 Part 2 With Christine Stark: Assault on a Sense of JusticeSend us a textTodayâs episode hosts Christine Stark, whose story began in Part 1. In this episode, Chris talks about how she developed her voice that has helped so many indigenous survivors of trafficking and abuse. She speaks on her own personal account of the trauma she endured, but also on how that propelled her through her life and her work. Chris touches on the traumas indigenous children encountered in boarding school and attempted assimilation, civil litigation for indigenous individuals, and how she continues to keep herself healthy and stable so that she can continue to do...
2020-02-1832 minEmancipation NationEpisode 31- Part I: Knowing Where we Come FromSend us a textTodayâs guest on the Emancipation Nation Podcast is Christine Stark. Chris is a proud indigenous woman whose passion and need for exposing the truth has elevated her work as well as earned her a masterâs degree in fine arts and in social work. Chris is an author, has conducted research, and demonstrated her creativity through art. In Part 1 of her interview, Chris speaks passionately and with some detail on the importance of anti-trafficking advocates to understand the history of enslavement and dehumanization that has taken place and has really never ended.Â
2020-02-1122 minEmancipation NationEpisode 30: From Pretty Woman to Getting Pretty Real: Waging War on the Issue from Both SidesSend us a textIn todayâs episode, we are hosting Erin McLoughlin. She works in the Detroit area with the Wayne County SAFE program helping victims of sexual assault and sex trafficking. Erin has been involved in advocacy efforts for about 10 years. She discusses the work of a forensic nurse examiner and the benefits it provides for survivors of sexual assault. She then flips-the-script to wear another hat facilitating a class with âjohnsâ or purchasers of sexual services who have been arrested for soliciting and provides an education about how john schools operate and the men involv...
2020-02-0431 minEmancipation NationEpisode 29: Parenting and Human Trafficking PreventionSend us a textWhile sex traffickers more commonly manipulate youth into the commercial sex trade, more and more sensationalized accounts of child abduction into the sex trade have cropped up on Facebook and in news reports. How do we educate parents so that they are aware of all of the ways sex trafficking occurs, particularly those most common ways. And how do we help parents resolve the ever present conflict between being your child's "friend" vs being your child's "parent"? Youth tell trusted others about what is truly happening in their lives. How does a parent...
2020-01-2821 minEmancipation NationEpisode 28: The Blueprint for Moving Forward: Collaborating, Listening, and Learning with Sarah SymonsSend us a textIn this episode of the Emancipation Nation, Sarah Symons, a self-educated, non-profit developer shares her anti-trafficking journey. Sarah shares her insights on what it has been like going from a songwriter for soap operas to owning and operating a non-profit organization that serves 750 girls a year. She was inspired in 2003 by a documentary, The Day My God Died, she watched by chance. Since then, she developed her own non-profit organization based in Nepal and IndiaâHer Future Coalitionâthat has been built for women in trafficking situations to become empowered, free, and strong. Also...
2020-01-2142 minEmancipation NationEpisode 27: Checking Your Ego at the Door to Make Meaningful Anti-Trafficking ProgressSend us a textWith previous law enforcement experience, an undergraduate degree in philosophy, and an MBA, Chris Lim is putting forth his education and experience to focus on macro level anti-trafficking work. In his current endeavor, he has been tasked with creating a statewide human-trafficking protocol for the state of Alabama, and he knows that collaboration between different disciplines is essential to the mission of saving lives. Chris explains to us that acknowledging and understanding the responsibilities and priorities of varying disciplines for the work they do is fundamental to get the job done, so it...
2020-01-1432 minEmancipation NationEpisode 26: At the Border: Dr. Kirby Reutter Discusses the Traumatic Realities of the Journey to the BorderSend us a textDr. Kirby Reutter is a clinical psychologist who works closely with Mexican immigrants at the U.S boarder seeking political asylum who have been exposed to extreme and complex trauma, which often includes human trafficking. Dr. Reutter shares the tragic realties of his clients, and the experiences that spurred these individuals and families to seek asylum in the U.S., and his work with them. The journey to the border itself has been horrifyingly for many, as Dr. Reutter explains through his encounters with his clients. This is a must listen to episode...
2020-01-0730 minEmancipation NationEpisode 25: Stepping Into Your Purpose in 2020 in Full EffectSend us a textIn 2020, let's use our voice and our choice to make a difference. Let's recognize those that have helped us along the way and circle back to those that needed us. In 2020, let's commit to be in full flavor and end the new lash of the whip in all of its many forms.Â
2019-12-3112 minEmancipation NationEpisode 24: The Gifts that Keep on Giving Including a Free Human Trafficking Youth Risk Assessment ToolSend us a textIn this episode three gifts are offered in preparation for 2020: (1) to speak up in places where others have the power, and to listen more in places where you have the power (2) share the gift of truth with all you know and stop the continued and destructive myths about human trafficking and (3) pick up your FREE youth-focused human trafficking risk tool. This tool will help you assess which youth are most at risk for being trafficked. It is most appropriate for youth ages 12-17 and may be used in schools, juvenile courts, child welfare...
2019-12-2423 minEmancipation NationEpisode 23: The Downside of Criminalizing Sex WorkSend us a textDo the laws we pass against prostitution really help vulnerable populations engaged in sex work? Our guest says these laws do not, and they particularly donât protect the most vulnerable in society.The narrative we have all been taught to believe is that prostitution is wrong and people shouldnât willingly engage in it. But this moral stance isnât based in the reality of our times. Today, women (and men) sell sex because they are trafficked, or because they need to survive, or because they consent to be sex worker...
2019-12-1729 minEmancipation NationEpisode 22: My Name is Freedom: The Story of Shari Ho's Enslavement, Abuse, and Cherished FreedomSend us a textFreedom is the most fundamental right that many take for granted. Shari Ho will never take her freedom for granted. She was an innocent child trafficked to the U.S. at only seven years old from her village in the mountains in Taiwan. Enslaved in California for approximately 20 years, Shari recounts her story and her escape in a book titled, âMy Name is Also Freedomâ written by Melodie Fox. Listen to this powerful episode about labor trafficking in the U.S as recounted by the author. Being afraid, but courageous, Shari was able to e...
2019-12-1020 minEmancipation NationEpisode 21: The Unsinkable Sarah Ladd: Navigating the Hostile Waters of Change Part IISend us a textIn part two of the podcast featuring Sarah Ladd, she discusses her work focused on trauma-informed practice as well as labor trafficking policies. She reveals the reality of work-life balance and discusses the importance of using your own life as an inspiration and motivation for âbeing persistentâ and furthering your advocacy efforts. Be sure to check out part one of the series. You donât want to miss it!Â
2019-12-0332 minEmancipation NationEpisode 20: The Unsinkable Sarah Ladd: Navigating the Hostile Waters of ChangeSend us a textThere is a story about a baby floating down a river. The compassionate helper frantically grabbed the baby, warmed it, clothed it, fed it, and found it a home. But soon there was another baby and another. Others joined in to help. Finally, another compassionate helper said, "I'm going up stream to find out who is throwing the babies in the water, and stop it." When Sarah found herself overwhelmed with the need she saw in the children she worked with in other countries and the weak laws and policies in place, she...
2019-11-2625 min