VSC Podcast

Victim Service Center
VSC Podcast

The Victim Service Center Podcast sits down with professionals that serve survivors and victims of trauma, or those who have experienced violence, and have conversations about social issues.

  1. Sober and Strong Overcoming Trauma

    JUN 20

    Sober and Strong Overcoming Trauma

    In this episode, VSC Education and Prevention Manager Oliva discusses the intersection between substance use and trauma. The relationship between substance use and victimization is complex and deeply intertwined. Research shows that people who have experienced sexual violence are more likely to develop substance use disorder – often as a way to cope with their trauma. At the same time, those who struggle with substance abuse are often at a higher risk of being victimized. This cycle can be incredibly difficult to break but healing, recovery and empowerment is all possible. First guest being interviewed is Sarah Shoulak, founder of Sober Betties – a social group that brings people together for alcohol free-experiences in a fun, retro-inspired atmosphere. Sarah’s journey of sobriety is one of resilience and transformation. They are using their story to help others find joy and community without alcohol. Second guest being interviewed is Heather Parker – an Outreach Specialist from Recovery Connections of Central Florida. Recovery Connections is a peer-led nonprofit dedicated to supporting people in recovery. You will hear their story and dive into the incredible resources available for those looking for support on their journey to recovery. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠myflfamilies.com⁠ to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠

    30 min
  2. Protecting The Vulnerable

    JUN 13

    Protecting The Vulnerable

    This episode will focus on vulnerable populations - those who may be at higher risk of exploitation, abuse or violence. VSC Education and Prevention Manager Oliva will discuss three specific groups: children, people with disabilities, and older adults. Each of these populations faces unique risks. By raising awareness and providing these resources, we can all play a role in prevention and support. In the first segment, we will be discussing how to keep children safe online. Guest interviewed will be Detective Hannah Crowe, who works in the Crimes Against Children Unit for the Orlando Police Department. She investigates and helps prevent online crimes targeting minors, ensuring that offenders are held accountable and families have the tools they need to stay safe. In the second segment, we will be discussing individuals with disabilities and how we can empower them and support their independence. Guest interviewed will be Natalia Piedrahita, Program Director for the Center for Independent Living or the CIL. The Center for Independent Living has been breaking down barriers for people with disabilities since 1976 and providing a wide range of services from advocacy and skills training to peer support and community inclusion. In the third segment, we will be discussing how to protect and support older adults – another vulnerable population in our communities. Guest interviewed is Deputy Khayree Pender from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Pender has firsthand experience working with senior citizens and their families. He is going to be sharing valuable insights on how we can keep our elders safe. Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠

    30 min
  3. What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

    JUN 6

    What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

    On this episode of the Victim Service Podcast, we explore the importance of trauma-informed care and its role in a survivor's healing journey. In the first segment, Tamara Nelson, LMHC and Certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapist will be discussing trauma-informed care – an understanding in the way that trauma affects the way a person thinks, feels and behaves. Trauma-informed care means creating a world that can foster growth, resiliency, and healing. It is also anticipating how trauma survivors may respond to our words and actions and doing our part to create a world that does not cause further harm. In the second segment, VSC Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor Tish Olasande will be sharing what a trauma-informed crisis response looks like. At the Victim Service Center, Advocacy and Crisis Counselors are the first person that a victim meets with. There are several sessions the victim goes through – starting with an intake and other sessions include forming a crisis plan, creating personal goals and helping victims navigating the judicial system. Victim Advocates and Crisis Counselors help lay the foundation for the healing journey. Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National SexualAssault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida AbuseHotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠

    30 min
  4. Supporting Survivors Through Advocacy and Specialized Care

    MAY 30

    Supporting Survivors Through Advocacy and Specialized Care

    On this episode of the Victim Service Center Podcast, wedive into the roles of different professionals who support survivors, focusing on the importance of advocacy and medical care. In the first segment, VSC Lead Victim Advocate NicolaPrichard will share how she provides direct support and resources to our survivors. Nicola has her master’s in social work and has worked with the Child Advocacy Center in Osceola before working for the Victim Service Center ofCentral Florida. In the second segment Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner ChrisBemis, BSN, RN, SANE-A will discuss the unique role of SANEs in supporting survivors. In the third segment, Lead Victim Advocate Nicola Prichardis back to debunk some of the myths around sexual violence and supporting survivors. There is a prevalence of misconceptions about sexual violence that canmake it more difficult to work through their healing journey. If you or someone you know needs help, please call our helpline at 407-500-4325. We’re here to share stories, amplify voices, and provide life-saving information and resources because healing starts with connection and you are not alone. New episodes are on the way. Subscribe on Spotify, follow us on social media @VSCflorida and visit ⁠victimservicecenter.org⁠ for more ways to learn, support and get involved. We can’t wait to connect with you! Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend: VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325 National SexualAssault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673 Florida AbuseHotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report online Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc. 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 Orlando, Florida 32806 Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠TikTok⁠

    30 min
  5. 01/24/2024

    VSC Podcast Episode 147: Unseen Shadows - Understanding Human Trafficking

    In this episode, VSC Educator Hannah Jenarine explores critical issues related to trauma, violence, and sexual assault, featuring conversations with professionals dedicated to serving survivors. In this episode, Hannah discusses the complex topic of human trafficking with Jasmine DeVerteuil.The discussion covers various aspects of human trafficking, addressing questions such as how victims are exploited, the methods traffickers employ, and whether a trafficked person can truly consent. The impact of sexual and labor exploitation on victims' decision-making processes is explored, along with the role of technology in both recruitment and combating trafficking.Jasmine sheds light on common misconceptions surrounding human trafficking and highlights the challenges of combating this crime that often operates in the shadows. The importance of international cooperation and data-sharing among law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and governments is emphasized for effective prevention and intervention.The conversation touches on the "save sally complex," providing additional depth to the discussion. The podcast concludes with information on organizations and resources available for those interested in supporting the fight against human trafficking or helping survivors. A message of hope and inspiration is shared, reinforcing the idea that healing is not linear, and individuals are not alone in the struggle against human trafficking.-----------------------------------Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

    28 min
  6. 01/10/2024

    VSC Podcast Episode 146: Understanding Narcissistic Abuse in LGBT+ Relationships

    In this insightful podcast episode featuring guest Sally Leslie, an inspiring LGBT+ survivor of narcissistic abuse and host of her own podcast: Reclaiming Pride: LGBT+ Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse, she candidly shares her personal journey of healing and self-discovery. Sally discusses the unique challenges faced within the context of her LGBT+ identity and how the abuse impacted her sense of self-worth. She sheds light on the abuser's tactics, emphasizing their exploitation of vulnerabilities related to her LGBT+ identity. Sally explores the profound process of reclaiming pride, detailing initial steps taken to rebuild self-esteem post-abuse. The episode addresses the impact on relationships within the LGBTQ+ community and offers advice for those facing similar challenges. Sally highlights the crucial role of professional help, therapy, and support from friends and chosen family in her recovery. Reconnecting with authenticity and combating self-doubt are key themes, with Sally providing valuable advice for others in similar situations. For survivors, she recommends resources and strategies for reclaiming pride and moving forward from narcissistic abuse. Sally Leslie's narrative serves as an empowering source of inspiration and guidance for navigating the intersection of LGBT+ identity and the journey to healing. ----------------------------------- Trigger Warning: In this podcast, we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy headspace or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

    53 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

The Victim Service Center Podcast sits down with professionals that serve survivors and victims of trauma, or those who have experienced violence, and have conversations about social issues.

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