Elizabeth Smart: Abduction, Survival and a Story of Resilience

The miracle of her rescue marked the beginning of a new chapter, but it came with its own set of challenges. Yet, from the dark experience emerged a remarkable woman with an unwavering commitment to turning pain into purpose. Elizabeth's journey led her to establish the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, a testament to her dedication to bringing hope and ending the victimization and exploitation of sexual assault through education, healing, and advocacy.

Note: This conversation includes some sensitive content that might not be suitable for all audiences and ages. However, it serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can triumph, and our resilience can shape a life of purpose and meaning. Tune in!

Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Elizabeth Smart Foundation: ⁠https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/⁠ Smart Defense: ⁠https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/smart-defense⁠ We Believe You Campaign: ⁠https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/we-believe-you⁠ Malouf Foundation: ⁠https://www.malouffoundation.org/esfannouncement/⁠ I Am On Watch Organization: ⁠https://www.iamonwatch.org/⁠ OnWatch Training: ⁠https://www.iamonwatch.org/training⁠

Key Highlights From The Show:

●     [00:01] Introduction to the show

●     [5:40] Elizabeth's story: How she was kidnaped and held captive at 14

●     [9:00] Elizabeth's fear and how it influenced her choices to survive

●     [13:05] Why Elizabeth didn’t fall for the kidnapper's religious rationalization

●     [16:00] Tactics the captors used to keep people away from Elizabeth and others captive

●     [16:30] Elizabeth's experience when she was rescued after 9 months in captivity

●     [24:09] How it was for Elizabeth to reintegrate into the normal world after captivity

●     [26:00] How Elizabeth navigated the trauma from the experience

●     [29:21] How Elizabeth’s experience inspires her work today and her vision

●     [30:10] Elizabeth Smart’s Foundation and their programs

●     [40:30] How our response can set the trajectory and be a starting point for healing

●     [49:50] Why women are often not believed when they report sexual abuse

●     [55:44] What it is for Elizabeth and her husband raising a daughter and son

●     [01:00:45] Elizabeth's thoughts on parenting and her advice to other parents

●     [01:04:00] Life-giving things that Elizabeth is committed to as a young parent

●     [01:09:50] Elizabeth’s final words of encouragement

●     [01:11:21] Ending the show

●     A message from the producer

Let’s Connect

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Credits:

Host - Tom Perez

Producer - Lauren Trantham

Logo Art - Michelle Boucher

Theme Music - Wesley Finley