CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains discussions of childhood abuse, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, religious manipulation, teenage pregnancy, abortion, miscarriage, childbirth via C-section, suicidal thoughts, and references to suicide threats. While no suicides are discussed, these topics are intense and deeply personal—please listen with care. For this episode, Sonya sat this one out—this is just me, Britt, as we wanted to create space for our guest to share her story in her own words, at her own pace. She survived years of abuse at the hands of her stepfather, became pregnant at 15, and was let down by the very systems that should have protected her. This is not just a story about trauma—it’s about survival, resilience, and the reality that too many people face in silence. If this conversation becomes overwhelming, step away if you need to. And if you or someone you know is in need of support, resources are listed at the bottom of this description. Join the Discussion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/dpmpodcast Produced by Expression North: https://www.facebook.com/expressionnorthTheme Music by Mathias Rock: https://www.youtube.com/@mathiasrockband Resources: British Columbia, Canada: VictimLink BC: A toll-free, confidential, multilingual telephone service available 24/7 across B.C. and Yukon for victims of family and sexual violence, and other crimes. Phone: 1-800-563-0808Website: VictimLink BCBC Society of Transition Houses: Provides support and resources for women, children, and youth experiencing violence. Website: BC Society of Transition HousesEnding Violence Association of BC (EVA BC): Offers resources and support for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and criminal harassment.Website: EVA BCCanada-Wide: Kids Help Phone: Provides confidential 24/7 counselling and support to young people.Phone: 1-800-668-6868Text: Text "CONNECT" to 686868Website: Kids Help PhoneCanadian Centre for Child Protection: A national charity dedicated to the personal safety of all children. Website: Protect ChildrenWorldwide: Child Helpline International: A global network of child helplines operating in over 140 countries. Website: Child Helpline InternationalRAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): The largest anti-sexual violence organization in the U.S., offering support to survivors.Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) Website: RAINNUNICEF: Provides resources and support for children's rights and safety worldwide.Website: UNICEFIf you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services. Remember, reaching out is a brave first step, and these organizations are here to support you.
