Shows
A Contagious Smile PodcastSilent Grandparents, Loud Love: A Daughter's Fight for LifeSend us a textWhen doctors told us to call a priest because our daughter wouldn't make it through the night, we refused to accept that fate. Through dozens of surgeries, kidney failure, and countless medical interventions, we fought alongside Faith as she battled for her life. Today, she's not only thriving but hitting bullseyes at the shooting range during her recent birthday celebrations.This episode takes you on an emotional journey through Faith's remarkable story – from her joyful birthday weekend complete with bowling adventures and her first-ever experience firing a real gun, to the he...
2025-08-1151 minA Contagious Smile PodcastPhoenix Rising: From Silent Victim to Unstoppable VoiceSend us a textWhen we talk about domestic violence, the most damaging question survivors hear is "Why didn't you just leave?" In this raw and powerful episode, Victoria and Michael pull back the curtain on this misconception, sharing stories from their upcoming book project "Dear Silence, You Lost."Victoria reveals a particularly moving submission from a child who once resented their mother for staying in an abusive relationship, only to later understand that leaving might have meant losing the protection their mother provided. This perspective shift challenges the judgment many survivors face and highlights...
2025-08-0449 min
What's Your Ripple?E13 - Domestic Violence Recovery Ripple with Victoria CuoreA story sure to touch your heart, and may inspire someone to take the step to ask for help. From a beaten down, but unbreakable woman and unborn child to a woman creating positive ripples for those affected by domestic violence. Victoria Cuore is a true survivor turned savior. Thank You Victoria for sharing your amazing ripple and contagious smile!With Love & GratitudeJJacontagioussmile.comvictoria@acontagioussmile.com Instagram: acontagioussmile1TikTok: acontagioussmileYouTube: acontagioussmile100
2025-07-3041 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastDear Silence: When Survivors Finally Speak TRIGGER WARNINGSend us a textWhat happens when survivors of domestic violence finally break their silence? In this raw, powerful episode, we unveil "Dear Silence," our groundbreaking international book project launching this October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This collection will feature letters from survivors who've endured the unimaginable—giving voice to those who were told to stay quiet for far too long.Behind every "why didn't you just leave?" lies a complex reality that most people fail to understand. We dismantle this harmful question by exploring the impossible choices victims face, particularly mothers who endure ab...
2025-07-2853 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastYou Are A Warrior: Breaking The Cycle of AbuseSend us a textThe scars of domestic violence often remain long after the abuse ends. Victoria's story reveals the staggering physical toll—over 120 surgeries in nearly two decades with more to come—including an upcoming radical ear procedure that will leave her completely deaf in one ear. Yet despite never experiencing a pain-free day in almost twenty years, her positivity remains unshaken."If anyone has the reason to be like, screw the world, screw everybody in it...it would be me," Victoria acknowledges. "But I'm not going to let that piece of crap win." This...
2025-07-2140 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastSurviving & Thriving Despite TraumaSend us a textWhen Victoria speaks of making a deal with the devil to protect her unborn child, you understand immediately this isn't an ordinary story of survival. Having endured over 100 surgeries resulting from brutal domestic violence, Victoria Cure has transformed unimaginable trauma into a mission that defines resilience in its purest form."How much more do I have to give?" It's the question her daughter asked during a life-threatening hospitalization, and now Victoria finds herself wondering the same as she faces complete hearing loss—a cruel twist for someone who was once a ma...
2025-07-2141 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastTHE BEST OF THE BEST WEBINARSend us a textThe "We Built This" global summit created a powerful space where survival transforms into thriving. Hosted by Victoria Cure, domestic violence survivor and founder of A Contagious Smile, this event brings together an extraordinary collection of voices who've turned their deepest wounds into wisdom.Susan O'Mallan introduces her groundbreaking Thriver's Own Motivational Model, addressing the critical gap between crisis intervention and truly reclaiming joy after trauma. Carrie Blazer reveals the surprising connection between emotional pain and enlightenment through physics principles that explain how our darkest valleys create momentum for our greatest...
2025-07-144h 53
A Contagious Smile PodcastEmbracing Authenticity: How Honest Relationships ThriveSend us a textThe anticipation is palpable as Victoria Coure and Michael dive into their latest episode, announcing that their upcoming webinar has generated remarkable interest, and their global speaking opportunities have sold out in record time! This success comes alongside features in over 50 media publications, including two fresh magazines that arrived just that day: Podcastars and Equubator. Perhaps most exciting? They’re featured in Women’s Weekly with none other than Adele gracing the cover.Behind their growing platform lies a passionate commitment to accessibility. Victoria reveals that neither of them has taken a pa...
2025-07-1336 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastShe's Lost Everything But Her Smile, And She's Using It To Help Others TRIGGER WARNINGSend us a text"You're not your diagnosis, you're not your condition." These powerful words come from Victoria, founder of A Contagious Smile and survivor of extreme domestic violence that has left her with titanium throughout her body, one arm amputated, and now facing complete deafness.Victoria's story isn't just about survival—it's about transformation. After enduring over 100 surgeries resulting from brutal abuse during her pregnancy 19 years ago, she channeled her trauma into creating a platform that advocates for special needs families and domestic violence survivors. Despite ongoing medical interventions that would break most people's sp...
2025-07-0941 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastConfronting a Customer Service NightmareSend us a textEver wondered what happens when someone refuses to serve your child with a medical condition? Victoria and Michael share a raw, unfiltered account of standing up to a McDonald's manager who denied their daughter food despite knowing her medical needs. This powerful confrontation highlights the fierce advocacy that defines their approach to life and healing.The couple dives deep into narcissistic relationships, particularly within families, revealing how narcissists view people as possessions rather than individuals with inherent worth. "The biggest fear a narcissist has is the truth," Victoria explains, "because the...
2025-07-0843 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastHealing Trauma Through ConnectionSend us a textThe raw power of lived experience drives everything behind A Contagious Smile, and in this candid episode, Victoria and Michael reveal exactly why they've dedicated their lives to supporting abuse survivors. Fresh off receiving three prestigious awards—including Best Transformative Trauma Advocate for Domestic Violence from Insider Weekly—the couple shares how their platform continues to expand through media features in the New York Times and Good Morning US.Victoria delves into the darkest moments of her abuse survival story with unflinching honesty. "I can tell you that from someone who live...
2025-06-2348 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastSurvivor's Escape Plan TRIGGER WARNINGSend us a textAfter Victoria's powerful interview about surviving domestic violence became the podcast's most popular episode ever, Michael and Victoria return with this crucial follow-up discussion diving deeper into practical escape strategies that saved her life.Victoria shares the harrowing reality of living with a violent narcissist while pregnant with her daughter. "He testified that if he hit me once, he hit me 200 times," Victoria reveals, explaining how she made the agonizing choice not to defend herself—despite having two black belts in martial arts—to protect her unborn child. The daily terror incl...
2025-06-2244 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastOne Hand, One Heart, All CourageSend us a textWhat happens when parents face the unexpected challenge of raising a child with different abilities? While some choose to run, others discover the most beautiful journey imaginable—one filled with unconditional love and unexpected lessons.In this raw and honest conversation, Victoria and Michael tackle the painful reality of abandonment in families with medically complex children. Victoria doesn't mince words about fathers who leave when faced with a child's medical diagnosis: "You're beyond a coward, you're beyond a piece of shit for leaving that mother, your newborn baby, just because you do...
2025-06-1639 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastBreaking Through Darkness Trigger WarningSend us a textWhat happens when the people who should love you most become your greatest source of pain? In this raw and unfiltered Q&A episode, Dana and Victoria tackle the toughest questions about narcissistic family relationships sent in by listeners desperately seeking answers.The conversation dives deep into the psychological warfare experienced within toxic family systems—from feeling responsible for others' behavior to questioning your very right to exist. Both hosts share vulnerable personal experiences that reveal the universal patterns of narcissistic abuse, creating powerful moments of validation for anyone who's ever fe...
2025-05-141h 08
A Contagious Smile PodcastScars and Stars: Finding Self-Worth After Narcissistic Abuse Trigger WarningSend us a textWhat does it mean to heal after narcissistic abuse? In this raw, unfiltered Q&A episode, Dana and Victoria tackle the questions that keep survivors up at night—from handling others' judgment to finding self-worth when everyone around you has tried to strip it away."I don't have to prove anything to anybody," Victoria asserts when addressing how to handle others talking down about you. This powerful statement sets the tone for a conversation that gives listeners permission to stop shrinking themselves for people who can't—or won't—see them clearly. The ho...
2025-05-041h 08
A Contagious Smile PodcastThe Narcissist's Playbook: How They Hurt Those Who Only Want to Love TRIGGER WARNINGSend us a textThe pollen count is high and so are the emotions in this raw, unfiltered conversation between Victoria and Michael. Between sneezes and watery eyes, they dive into the grueling realities of advocacy work—the sleepless nights, endless paperwork, and emotional toll that comes with fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves.Victoria opens up about a new family she's working with, revealing the complex dynamics involved in cases with multiple children and parents. Michael courageously shares his personal experience as a male survivor of domestic abuse, shedding light on the si...
2025-04-1456 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastWhen Men Are Survivors: Redefining Domestic Abuse Beyond Gender StereotypesSend us a textEvery survivor deserves a voice—regardless of gender. When Michael witnessed his wife Victoria's domestic violence advocacy work up close for the first time, it sparked a raw, necessary conversation about who abuse affects and how cycles can be broken.Victoria pulls back the curtain on her nearly two decades as an advocate, showing how she bridges the gap between survivors, law enforcement, and the court system. She explains the crucial first steps an advocate takes when approaching authorities: "I am not a threat to you, I am a domestic violence ad...
2025-03-3150 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastPut Down Your Phone and Pick Up the ConversationSend us a textHeartfelt celebrations and serious conversations collide in this candid episode where we start by toasting Michael's first colonoscopy (yes, really!) and the clean bill of health that followed. It's a perfect reminder that sometimes the most uncomfortable moments become our greatest gifts to those we love - as Michael puts it, "I want to live longer for my family."The energy shifts as we unveil our passion project: the Stucco Squad. This initiative for special needs children has consumed our hearts completely, with carefully crafted items from superhero bracelets that can...
2025-03-2551 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastCaptain Jack, Socks, and Service Dogs: Life's Unexpected HeroesSend us a textWhen Malcolm Goodwin reached out to thank Victoria for saving his friend's life, it reinforced exactly why the Contagious Smile podcast exists. "I'm not looking for praise or notoriety," Victoria shares with raw honesty. "When I went through this and was laying on the floor bleeding, not wanting to get up, I wished someone could say 'I've got you. You're not alone.'" That connection – knowing someone understands your darkest moments – can transform a tiny remaining spark into a wildfire of healing.This episode unveils exciting new developments, including Victoria joining Came...
2025-03-1944 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastThe Giving Journey: From Personal Healing to Global ImpactSend us a textWhat does it mean to transform personal trauma into a mission that uplifts others? Join Victoria and Michael as they unveil several groundbreaking initiatives designed to create safe spaces for those who need them most.The excitement is palpable as Victoria announces their podcast-a-thon benefiting Give Kids the World, an extraordinary organization providing magical experiences for children with critical illnesses. This partnership with Make-A-Wish represents their commitment to creating meaningful moments for families facing unimaginable challenges.Meet the Stucco Squad – named after Victoria's beloved service dog – a community where extr...
2025-03-1542 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastA Family's Unconventional Journey: From Trauma to Triumph TRIGGER WARNINGSend us a textVictoria and Michael open the doors to their new passion project, the "Stucco Squad" – a vibrant, supportive community designed specifically for children with special needs. Named after their service dog (who was in turn named after Victoria's law enforcement nickname), this initiative creates a space where extraordinary kids can connect, celebrate their uniqueness, and participate in engaging activities like coloring contests, themed worksheets, and creative challenges.Drawing from their personal experiences – Victoria's own special needs journey and raising their daughter with special needs – they understand the profound impact of building self-worth in chi...
2025-03-1433 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastEstrangement and Empowerment: Navigating Narcissistic Family Drama, Embracing Healing, and Breaking Cycles for Future Generations TRIGGER WARNINGSend us a textWhat do you do when your estranged father becomes your cyberstalker? Victoria and I kick off our return after a rocky January by unraveling this unsettling tale. We share candid reflections and humor as Victoria opens up about her "sperm donor" father, who, despite his obsession, showed zero concern during her daughter Faith's health crises. Through this bizarre saga, we discuss the perplexing behavior of older individuals and the art of resilience and empowerment when facing narcissistic family dynamics. Look out for Victoria's upcoming book, which promises to dig deeper into these familial...
2025-02-1849 min
The How To Podcast Series - Revolving Guest Co-Hosts, Podcast Tips and A Community for PodcastersE377 - The Student Becomes The Teacher - A Podcast Journey that includes Yoda with CO-HOST - Victoria CuoreEpisode 377 - CO-HOST - Victoria Cuore - The Student Becomes The Teacher - A Podcast Journey that includes YodaWe strive to create an environment where healing becomes contagious, where the transformative power within us radiates and influences those around us. Through our actions, words, and interactions, we aim to inspire others to embrace their own healing journey and extend it further, creating a ripple effect of wellbeing and wholeness.Join us on this journey of personal growth and collective transformation. Together, we can make a difference, one healing moment at a time....
2025-01-2942 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastSurgical Surprises: Hospital Mix-Ups, Family Resilience, and the Healing Power of HumorSend us a textEver experienced the chaos of a last-minute surgery mix-up and the unexpected presence of a plastic surgeon? That's exactly what happened to us, Victoria and Michael, as we embarked on a whirlwind hospital adventure. From the frantic journey to the operating room to sharing light-hearted moments with a nurse who recognized us, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions. Victoria, in her 18th surgery, remains a beacon of resilience, humorously refusing pain meds despite the complex nerve and muscle procedure on her arm.Navigating the post-surgery landscape turned out to be...
2024-12-0935 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastTRIGGER WARNING Unbreakable Bonds: Embracing Adoption, Obtaining Prosthetics, and Celebrating Familial ResilienceSend us a textTRIGGER WARNING What would you do for love? Imagine adopting a child and transforming your life through the power of unconditional love. Join us as we share the moving story of Victoria's adoption journey, from overcoming past hardships to embracing newfound happiness. An old voicemail serves as a poignant reminder of this incredible transformation, inspiring listeners with the message that a happily ever after is indeed within reach.Next, we tackle the challenges of obtaining a functional prosthetic arm for Victoria, specifically the Hero Arm by Open Bionics. We humorously explore...
2024-11-2539 min
A Contagious Smile PodcastShattered Silence: Exposing Domestic Abuse and Systemic Injustices TRIGGERS!!!Send us a texthttps://acontagioussmile.sellfy.store/TRIGGER WARNING! How does one find hope and strength amidst the storm of domestic abuse? In this powerful episode, we reflect on the courage of Victoria, whose personal journey through the darkness of domestic violence sheds light on the resilience and faith required to survive. Highlighting the critical importance of empathy and support, we underscore that abuse is not a competition but a call for solidarity and understanding.We celebrate the extraordinary milestone of Dana Diaz's series on narcissism, which has touched over 3 million hearts o...
2024-10-011h 20
Finding Peace Beyond the Pain.#19 - Your Teen/Adult Child's Mental Health with guest Dr. Victoria CuoreIn this episode, Debbie speaks with guest Dr. Victoria Cuore. Dr. Cuore is a best selling author of a number of workbooks and books relating to teen mental health and she discusses challenges and issues related to having a teen or adult child with mental illness.Dr. Victoria Cuore is Founder and CEO of A Contagious Smile. For over 17 dedicated years, she has empowered both the special needs community and survivors of domestic violence. As a survivor herself, having undergone over 100 operations to repair the damage inflicted by her ex, she understands and supports those on their healing...
2024-08-1756 min
Finding Peace Beyond the PainFPBTP #19 - Your Teen/Adult Child's Mental Health with guest Dr. Victoria CuoreIn this episode, Debbie speaks with guest Dr. Victoria Cuore. Dr. Cuore is a best selling author of a number of workbooks and books relating to teen mental health and she discusses challenges and issues related to having a teen or adult child with mental illness. Dr. Victoria Cuore is Founder and CEO of A Contagious Smile. For over 17 dedicated years, she has empowered both the special needs community and survivors of domestic violence. As a survivor herself, having undergone over 100 operations to repair the damage inflicted by her ex, she understands and supports those on their healing journey. Through...
2024-08-1756 min