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Impact Conversations Podcast
Impact Conversations shares firsthand stories of those fighting human trafficking and supporting survivors. Tune in to learn, raise awareness, and see how real people are creating lasting change.
Voices Making an Impact
Impact Conversations Podcast features inspiring interviews with individuals using their skills, talents, and expertise to fight human trafficking, exploitation, and violence.
Each episode highlights the work being done to prevent trafficking, support survivor restoration, and raise awareness, showcasing the real-world impact of those dedicated to creating a safer, more just world.
Episode: Biker Escorts & Empowering Children – A Conversation with Haase from B.A.C.A. Summary: Dawn sits down with Haase, the Central Tennessee President of Bikers Against Child Abuse (B.A.C.A.). They discuss the unique mission of B.A.C.A. to empower abused children so they no longer live in fear. Haase shares his personal journey, the rigorous training and commitment required to become a member, and the powerful impact of showing up as a unified, protective presence for vulnerable children. Key Highlights: The Mission of B.A.C.A.: B.A.C.A. exists to empower abused children to not be afraid of the world they live in. They use the "biker image" for good, providing a protective and fearless persona for children. Absolute Commitment: Becoming a patched member takes over a year and involves federal background checks and extensive training. B.A.C.A. ensures that every adult in a child's life is there for the long haul. The "Level 1" Intervention: When a child is referred, the chapter rides out in a group (often 16-20 bikers) to meet them. This presence helps the child feel safe and sends a clear message that to harm the child, you have to go through the bikers. Road Names & Anonymity: Children choose their own "Road Names," allowing them to create a new, fearless identity. Only one person in the chapter (the Child Liaison) knows the child's real name. Court Support: B.A.C.A. members accompany children to court, providing a physical barrier of support so the child feels brave enough to testify. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations, where we highlight fascinating ways people are impacting the lives of those who are vulnerable. This series is brought to you by Made for Freedom, a social enterprise fighting human trafficking with style. Today, we are talking to Haase. I met Haase at a conference a few years ago. I ended up sitting next to this big, burly guy in the lunchroom and thought, "Hmm, he’s not your typical attendee for an anti-trafficking conference." But as I got to know him, I realized he is one of the coolest examples of someone using their passion for a cause. Haase is the Central Tennessee President and Agency Liaison for B.A.C.A.—Bikers Against Child Abuse. Haase, welcome! Haase: Thank you, Dawn. Thanks for having me. Dawn Manske: Tell us a bit about B.A.C.A. and how it all started. Haase: B.A.C.A. is a 501(c)(3) that’s been around for about 25 years. it was started in 1994 by a play therapist in Utah. He saw that his abused clients would make progress in therapy, but then fear would set in when perpetrators or their families got involved. He had the brilliant idea to ask some of his biker buddies to help protect a kid going to court. It worked, and now we’re in 47 states and 16 countries, affecting tens of thousands of children. Dawn Manske: You mentioned you’ve loved motorcycles since you were a teenager. How did you merge that with this mission? Haase: We use the biker lifestyle and code of conduct as a venue to accomplish our mission: empowering abused children to not live in fear. Bikers have a certain reputation—leathered up, riding high-CC v-twins. When that image is used for good, it’s powerful. I’ve loved bikes since I was a kid. I currently ride an Indian Chief Dark Horse that I call my "Nasal Mistress." Dawn Manske: I remember you saying that the commitment to these kids has to be absolute. Haase: Exactly. I grew up in an abusive home myself, which gave me great compassion for what these kids go through. When my daughter—who is now a licensed therapist—was interning at a Children’s Advocacy Center, she heard about B.A.C.A. and told me, "Daddy, you’ve got to do this." It took me a year and a half to pull the trigger because the commitment must be absolute. These kids don't need another adult dropping in, creating hope, and then disappearing. It takes over a year of training and background checks just to earn your back patch. Less than 10% of people who show interest actually make it to that point. Dawn Manske: How do you actually support the kids once you’re assigned a case? Haase: We get referrals from the police, CPS, or Advocacy Centers. We never force ourselves on a child; they have to want us involved. Once they do, it gets fun. We find out what they want their "Road Name" to be. It gives them a new, fearless persona. Then we schedule a "Level 1" meeting. The whole chapter—maybe 20 motorcycles—rides out to meet the child. We give them and their guardians our cell phone numbers. They can call or text us anytime they’re afraid. If there’s an intense situation where a perpetrator is harassing them, we’ll even camp out at the child’s home for days until the child feels safe and the perpetrator understands that to get to that child, they have to go through us. Dawn Manske: It’s about being a "bigger and better" presence than the perpetrator. Haase: We are very child-centered. We don't want to jeopardize a case, so we don't overtly threaten anyone, but our presence is a "covert intimidation." When you ride bikes, you have a different sense of sacrifice and freedom. Our mission statement says we don't advocate violence, but we will not let anything hurt that child. Dawn Manske: How many kids have you helped? Haase: Our answer is always: "As many as need us." We cover all of Central Tennessee. It’s all volunteer—nobody in the organization gets paid. Every cent we raise goes directly to the kids, including providing therapy if the family can’t afford it. Dawn Manske: If someone is a biker or knows one who wants to help, what should they do? Haase: Visit the B.A.C.A. website and look for a local chapter. Come to a meeting and see what it’s like. Just know that we ride in the rain, the snow—whenever a kid needs us. Pass the word along, share the videos, and help us make a difference. Dawn Manske: Haase, thank you for what you do. You’re a great example of someone using their skills to protect the vulnerable. Haase: It’s our privilege, Dawn. These kids are the real heroes. They are the ones overcoming fear to make positive changes in their lives. We’re just here to help.
Episode: A Safe Place to Heal – A Conversation with Ked Frank from Refuge for Women Summary: Dawn talks with Ked Frank, the founder of Refuge for Women. Ked shares the 11-year journey of the organization—from its start in a Kentucky farmhouse to becoming a multi-state network that provides long-term care for survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. They discuss the unique "relocation" model, the importance of long-term healing, and the launch of Kentucky's first specialized emergency home for survivors. Key Highlights: The Relocation Model: Refuge for Women has seven locations across the U.S. (including Las Vegas, Chicago, and Dallas). This allows them to "relocate" a survivor 1,000 miles away if they are in danger from a perpetrator, helping them go off the grid and start over. Long-Term Recovery: The program is free and allows women to stay for up to 12 months, with a second year of transitional living available. Ked emphasizes that after years of trauma, "relearning life" takes time. The Emergency Home: A new 16-bed emergency home in Kentucky will open soon, providing an immediate safe place for law enforcement or churches to bring survivors (within 2 hours of a call) for 30–90 days of stabilization. Addressing the Demand: Ked speaks directly to the root cause of trafficking—the demand. He challenges the "fantasy" of the sex industry, reminding listeners that the women involved are real people with real names and horrific backgrounds of trauma. Survivor Made: A new social enterprise where residents assemble products like Mother's Day baskets (candles, tea, journals), giving them a way to earn revenue and take pride in creating something beautiful. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. I'm Dawn Manske, and today we’re talking with Ked Frank, the founder of Refuge for Women. Ked, thank you for being here. Ked Frank: Thank you, Dawn. It’s good to be with you. Dawn Manske: Tell us how Refuge for Women came about. Ked Frank: We started about 11 years ago in 2009. I was a pastor at a church in Kentucky, and we learned about an outreach happening at strip clubs in Lexington. The women were asking for a "next step"—a safe place to go to get out of the industry. I stepped out of the church, and we renovated an 85-year-old farmhouse to start our first home in 2010. Dawn Manske: What makes Refuge unique compared to other survivor programs? Ked Frank: When we started, we didn't even use the term "human trafficking." We thought we were just helping women from strip clubs. But we quickly realized that most of these women had been controlled since they were 13 or 14 years old. What makes us unique today is that we have seven locations. If a woman is in active danger from a perpetrator, we can make her "disappear"—relocate her a thousand miles away to one of our other homes where no one knows her. It gives her a fresh start. We also offer long-term care. If you’ve been in the industry for 15 years, you can’t heal in 30 days. We offer up to a year of residential care, plus a second year of transitional living, all at no cost to the survivor. Dawn Manske: You’re also starting an emergency home in Kentucky. Why is that such a big deal? Ked Frank: Law enforcement has been telling us for years that when they do a sting, they have nowhere to take survivors immediately. It can take 5 to 10 days to process a long-term application. In the meantime, these women often end up back on the streets or in jail. Our new emergency home will have 16 beds. Law enforcement, churches, or outreach groups can call us, and we can have a bed ready within a couple of hours. They can stay for 30 to 90 days while we figure out the best next step for them. It’s the first of its kind in Kentucky. Dawn Manske: What do you wish more people understood about exploitation? Ked Frank: I often talk to men’s groups about demand. The sex industry isn't a "fantasy" or a "party." The women on the screens or the stages are real people—somebody’s daughter, somebody’s sister. Most of them were victims of childhood sexual abuse and have been traumatized repeatedly. They don't want to be there. Rescue is just the first step. There is a long process of healing required to help them dream again. We believe God is a miracle worker, and we’ve seen him do amazing things in these women's lives. Dawn Manske: You’ve also started a social enterprise called "Survivor Made." Ked Frank: Yes! It’s brand new. The residents assemble products like Mother’s Day baskets with candles, chocolate, tea, and journals. It’s a way for them to generate revenue and feel pride in making something beautiful. You can find those at SurvivorMade.org. Dawn Manske: Ked, thank you for your heart and for everything you’re doing to expand this mission. Ked Frank: Thank you, Dawn.
Episode: Empowering Foster Youth & Prevention through Film – A Conversation with Meiko Taylor Summary: Dawn sits down with Meiko Taylor, a filmmaker and youth empowerment advocate. Meiko shares her journey from being a foster child to working in group homes, where she discovered the shocking prevalence of domestic sex trafficking. They discuss her organization, The Power Project, her upcoming film Turnt, and how the foster care system can inadvertently "groom" children for exploitation. Key Highlights: From Foster Care to Advocacy: Meiko grew up in foster care and spent eight years working in group homes. Her "wake-up call" came when a young girl shared her trafficking story, leading Meiko to realize that trafficking isn't just an international issue—it’s happening in every US city. Prevention through Media: Meiko wrote the script for a film called Turnt. Designed with a diverse cast and a "hip-hop" aesthetic to engage at-risk youth, the film uses storytelling to show the reality of grooming and recruitment tactics without glorifying the lifestyle. The "Pipeline" Reality: Meiko explains how the foster system can "groom" kids for trafficking. Frequent moves, the absence of deep connections, and the fact that everyone around them is "paid to be there" can normalize the dynamics of an exploitative trafficking relationship. Full Circle Moment: After creating a prevention program that served 26,000 kids, Meiko secured a contract with DCFS in Illinois—the very state where she was a ward of the court. She now trains staff and kids in the system where she grew up. It’s an "Us" Problem: Meiko stresses that trafficking doesn't just affect foster youth. Through "sextortion" and social media, even children from stable, middle-class homes are vulnerable to online predators. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I’m excited to have Meiko Taylor joining us. Meiko works with The Power Project, a youth empowerment organization that provides workshops to at-risk youth, focusing on career goals and sex trafficking prevention. Meiko, thanks for being here! Meiko Taylor: Absolutely, thank you for having me. Dawn Manske: I’m a foster mom, so I’m particularly interested in your story. How did you get started? Meiko Taylor: I actually grew up as a foster kid myself. After college, I worked in banking for eight years, but when I moved to California, I started working at a group home for kids in foster care and on probation. Six years into that, a young lady told me she had been trafficked. Like many people, I thought trafficking was something that happened halfway across the world. I didn't know it was right here. I started researching Backpage and saw how many young people were being sold online. I realized we weren't training staff or kids on how to handle this trauma. So, I created a prevention program myself. Dawn Manske: You also use film as a tool, right? Meiko Taylor: Yes! I’m a filmmaker. I wrote a script called Turnt. I wanted to create something in a narrative form—like the shows kids actually watch on VH1—that spoke to their generation. It’s about an up-and-coming rapper who turns to trafficking to fund his career. The goal is to let kids see the characters and realize, "Hey, that’s exactly what my boyfriend says to me," and recognize the grooming tactics before they get pulled in. Dawn Manske: That is so smart. It’s meeting them where they are. You also mentioned a "full circle" moment in Illinois. Meiko Taylor: Yes, that was my biggest win. I was a ward of the state in Illinois, and last year, I secured a contract with DCFS Illinois to mandate my training for the entire state. I got to go back to Chicago, sit in a group home with girls, and tell them, "I sat in the same seats you’re sitting in right now." There is light at the end of the tunnel. Dawn Manske: You’ve made a bold statement about how the foster system can "groom" kids for trafficking. Can you explain that? Meiko Taylor: It’s a heavy subject, but it’s true. In the system, kids are moved from place to place. They are always around new people and rarely establish deep, healthy connections. When a roommate they’ve known for months is suddenly gone, it snatches away their ability to trust relationships. Additionally, everyone around them is getting paid to be there—staff, foster parents, etc. They become used to the idea that their presence is for someone else’s financial gain. When a trafficker says, "You have to work to earn your keep," it doesn't feel weird to them—it feels normal. That’s why prevention on the front end is so vital. It’s easier to keep a kid from being broken than to put a broken kid back together. Dawn Manske: And you’re also warning parents that this isn't just a "them" problem. Meiko Taylor: Exactly. If your kid has a phone or a tablet, predators have access to them. Sextortion happens to kids in middle-class homes every day. They might be in the next room while someone is forcing them to send inappropriate pictures. We have to burst that bubble and realize this is an "us" problem. Dawn Manske: Meiko, thank you so much. I’m looking forward to seeing Turnt when it’s released.
Episode: Intimate Partner Homicide – A Conversation with Tracy Schott Summary: Dawn speaks with Tracy Schott, the producer and director of the award-winning documentary Finding Jen’s Voice. Tracy shares the chilling statistics behind intimate partner homicide and discusses how her background as a social worker led her to uncover the "anatomy of an abusive relationship." They talk about the warning signs, the dangers of isolation (especially during global crises), and the importance of media in shaping healthy relationship models for the next generation. Key Highlights: The Global Crisis: Over 50,000 women are killed worldwide each year by intimate partners or family members. In the U.S., the number has climbed to more than four women killed every single day. The Leading Cause of Death: Tracy reveals a shocking research finding: homicide is a leading cause of death for pregnant women, often linked to a partner's desire for control. Beyond Physical Abuse: Intimate partner violence is about power and control. It includes financial abuse, extreme jealousy, and digital monitoring. Tracy emphasizes that the most dangerous time for a victim is when they try to leave. Voices for Change: Tracy launched a platform, Voices4Change.net, where survivors, researchers, and professionals can connect. She is currently offering her film Finding Jen's Voice for free on the site to help raise awareness during times of increased isolation. Media's Role: Tracy discusses how media impacts our social fabric. She advocates for better representation of competent, strong female characters in children’s media to change the narrative for the next generation. No Judgment: A key message of the episode is empathy. No one chooses to be a victim; abusers often start as "Prince Charming" before the "castle tower" of isolation and control is built. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I’m talking with Tracy Schott, the producer and director of Finding Jen's Voice, a documentary about intimate partner homicide. Tracy, thank you so much for being here. Tracy Schott: Thanks for having me, Dawn. Dawn Manske: I’m not as familiar with the term "intimate partner homicide." What kind of numbers are we looking at? Tracy Schott: The numbers are horrific. Worldwide, 50,000 women are killed each year by partners or family. In the U.S., we used to see a statistic of three women killed per day, but that’s climbed to over four a day. This isn't just a "third world" problem; it’s happening right here. Over 90% of these homicides are women killed by men. Dawn Manske: You mentioned that it's more than just "black eyes and broken arms." Tracy Schott: Exactly. It’s about power and control. Abusers control finances, who you talk to, and what you do online. The scariest part is that the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship is when the victim tries to leave. That’s when the perpetrator feels they are losing control and the risk of homicide shoots up. Dawn Manske: How did you get started on this path? Tracy Schott: I was a child and family therapist for 15 years. I eventually moved into media production, and two weeks after starting my own company, a friend called. Her niece, Jen, had been murdered by her boyfriend while she was two months pregnant. I did a Google search and found a study saying homicide was a leading cause of death for pregnant women. I was incensed. I spent four years making the film to tell Jen's story and explore why this happens. Jen’s killer spent three weeks planning her execution because he didn't want her to have the baby. It wasn't "snapping"—it was premeditated. Dawn Manske: What happens when there are children involved? Tracy Schott: Children become leverage for the abuser. Statistically, if there is a child in the home from a previous relationship (not biologically related to the abuser), the risk of homicide goes up significantly. It’s one of the red flags on the "danger assessment scales" used by first responders. Dawn Manske: You have a new website, Voices4Change.net. Tell us about that. Tracy Schott: I wanted to create a place where the "choir" and the "non-believers" could meet. We’re streaming the film for free right now because isolation—like what we saw during COVID—is a powerful tool for abusers. The site is a safe, controlled place for survivors to blog and for researchers to share data. We want to connect the people who have the knowledge with the people who need it most. Dawn Manske: What can the average person do if they suspect someone is in trouble? Tracy Schott: Start from a place of knowledge—watch the film and learn the "anatomy of an abusive relationship." But more importantly, start from a place of empathy and non-judgment. Nobody dreams of being a victim. Abusers often sweep victims off their feet as "Prince Charming" before the control starts. We also need to change the media our children consume. We need to see more competent girls with brains, like in Frozen or Mulan, so they grow up knowing they are capable and don't have to be limited by cultural roles that make them vulnerable. Dawn Manske: Tracy, thank you for pouring your life into this. It’s so needed. Tracy Schott: Thank you, Dawn. We can all change the world by just looking for ways to positively impact it.
Episode: Superheroes & Healing – A Conversation with Kenneth Rodgers Jr. Summary: Dawn sits down with Kenneth Rodgers Jr., an author, public speaker, and survivor of childhood sexual abuse. Kenny shares how he uses the lore of DC and Marvel superheroes to help male survivors understand and navigate their own healing journeys. They discuss the unique challenges faced by men in addressing trauma, the "Kryptonite" of emotions, and Kenny’s upcoming books for caregivers. Key Highlights: Writing as Therapy: Kenny has written and published ten books across multiple genres (sci-fi, young adult, memoir). He describes his writing process as "self-therapy," helping him cope with and move forward from his own past trauma. Superheroes as a Mirror for Trauma: Kenny noticed that many male survivors struggle with "real man" societal standards that discourage emotional vulnerability. By using characters like Superman and Batman, he helps men identify their coping mechanisms (like workaholism or hyper-vigilance) through a relatable lens. The "Kryptonite" Scale: Kenny uses the different colors of Kryptonite to explain the "Subjective Units of Distress Scale" (SUDS). For example, he uses "Gold Kryptonite"—which removes Superman's powers but leaves him human—as a metaphor for finding a healthy emotional middle ground where one can feel sadness and joy without being numb or overwhelmed. Caregiver Support: His upcoming book, How to Save Your Inner Wonder Woman, is dedicated to caregivers (like his wife, Sara). It focuses on trauma stewardship, helping those supporting survivors to avoid "compassion fatigue" and "secondary traumatic stress." Future Projects: Kenny has a roadmap for future books, including one featuring The Flash (dealing with workaholism and the power of being still) and Green Lantern (exploring the emotional spectrum represented by the different colored lantern rings). Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a good friend of mine, Kenneth Rodgers Jr. Kenny is an author, nationally recognized public speaker, and a member of the RAINN speakers' bureau. Kenny, thanks for being with us! Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: Good to be here, Dawn. It’s so good to see you. Dawn Manske: You’ve written and published ten books! How do you categorize them? Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: They are all over the place, but the common thread is trauma. Whether I’m writing sci-fi or a memoir, I’m trying to deal with my past as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. Writing has always been my escape and my way to heal, even when I didn't realize I was doing it. Dawn Manske: You use superheroes to help survivors. How does that work? Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: When I started therapy at 28, the books we used were mostly written for women. My therapist had to change the pronouns to "he/him," which made me feel even more isolated. One in eight males is a survivor, but we don't like to talk about emotions because of societal standards of what a "real man" is. I saw my own struggles in superheroes. I wrote Heroes, Villains, and Healing to show how these characters use coping mechanisms like hyper-vigilance (Batman) or perfectionism (Superman). It allows men to address their trauma without having to talk about themselves directly at first. Dawn Manske: I remember us talking about "Kryptonite" at a conference. Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: Yes! Most people only know green kryptonite, but there are others. I use them to explain the "SUDS" scale—how survivors feel. "Green" might mean you’re overwhelmed, but I focus on "Gold Kryptonite." It takes away Superman's powers, making him a regular person. That’s the goal of healing: not to be "super" or numb, but to be able to feel the full spectrum of human emotions—sad, happy, angry—and be okay with it. Dawn Manske: You’re working on a book for caregivers now, too. Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: Yes, How to Save Your Inner Wonder Woman. It’s for people like my wife, Sara, or my therapist. When you’re helping a survivor, you can absorb their trauma. You need to learn how to be a "sieve" rather than a "bowl"—let the trauma flow through you so you don't burn out or suffer from secondary traumatic stress. Caregivers need to know it’s okay for them to get help and take care of themselves, too. Dawn Manske: What’s next after Wonder Woman? Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: I’ve got it all mapped out! Next is The Flash, which will deal with workaholism. The Flash is always moving, but I want to explore the "Still Force"—the idea that you can be calm and still and still be bettering yourself. After that, I’ll look at Green Lantern and the emotional spectrum of the different colored rings. Dawn Manske: Kenny, thank you for sharing your heart and for everything you’re doing for male survivors. It’s a very underrepresented group, and your work is so important. Kenneth Rodgers Jr.: Thank you, Dawn.
Episode: Preventing Exploitation Through Connection – A Conversation with Kelly Sullivan Summary: Dawn talks with Kelly Sullivan, a Connection Specialist at the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition. Kelly shares her lived experience of spending 18 years in the foster care system and explains how her role now focuses on ensuring older youth don’t "age out" alone. They discuss the staggering link between foster care and human trafficking, the importance of relative placement, and how trauma-informed care is changing the way we support vulnerable children and their families. Key Highlights: The Foster-to-Trafficking Pipeline: Statistics show that of the runaways who were sex trafficked in 2017, 88% were in the care of a foster home or group home when they went missing. Kelly notes that exploitation is often underreported because youth may not recognize themselves as victims. 30 Days to Family: A highly successful program that aims to place children with relatives within 30 days of entering the system. This leads to fewer placements, less trauma, and better long-term outcomes for the child. Connection Specialist for Older Youth: Kelly works with transitional-age youth (17–21) to build their family trees and reconnect them with supportive adults. She emphasizes that having a "safety net" of adults is the biggest predictor of success after the system. The Five Domains of Well-being: Kelly looks at a youth’s life through five lenses: Mastery, Safety, Stability, Meaningful Access to Resources, and Social Connectedness. She explains that if the other four are lacking, it’s nearly impossible to maintain healthy social connections. Trauma and the Brain: The conversation touches on how developmental trauma affects the brain’s ability to learn and trust. Kelly uses brain-based strategies to help youth and their support teams move from "fight or flight" into a place of connection. Systemic Changes: From the Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) to the ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) study, the system is slowly shifting toward being more trauma-responsive and less judgmental of biological parents. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I am thrilled to have Kelly Sullivan joining us. Kelly is a Connection Specialist with the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition. Kelly, thank you for being here. Kelly Sullivan: Thanks for having me, Dawn! Dawn Manske: My husband and I are foster parents, and we’ve heard the foster system described as a "breeding ground" for trafficking. Kelly, you have a unique perspective on this because you lived it. Tell us your story. Kelly Sullivan: I was in foster care from birth until I turned 18. I was actually a runaway at 17 and only found out I’d been released from custody when I turned 18. I navigated a lot of "abnormal" situations without a safety net. Eventually, I put myself through college and felt a passion for helping older youth who were aging out. I’ve worked in street outreach for homeless youth and eventually landed at the Coalition. Dawn Manske: Those stats about foster runaways being trafficked are appalling. Why do you think it’s so prevalent? Kelly Sullivan: I actually think the numbers are underreported. Many youth don’t acknowledge themselves as victims of exploitation. They also don't always see themselves as "homeless" if they are couch-hopping or staying with someone they wouldn't otherwise be with just to have a roof. They don't have that stable connection, which makes them prime targets for traffickers. Dawn Manske: Tell us about your role as a Connection Specialist. Kelly Sullivan: It grew out of our "30 Days to Family" program. For older youth, the goal is to make sure they aren't aging out without adult connections. I build family trees and reach out to relatives, but I let the youth lead. I ask them, "Who do you want me to contact?" I focus on the five domains of well-being: Mastery, Safety, Stability, Resources, and Social Connectedness. You can't just fix one; you have to look at the whole person. These kids have been in "fight or flight" for so long that they often have a wall up. My job is to help pull the pieces together that were missed because they had so many different case managers over the years. Dawn Manske: How has the system changed since you were a kid? Kelly Sullivan: The Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) in the 90s put time limits on foster care so kids wouldn't linger indefinitely like I did. We also know so much more about trauma now. We understand that a parent’s inability to cope is often due to their own childhood trauma. We’re working with families with less judgment now. Dawn Manske: It’s so important to have a team. We’ve seen cases where the system is a nightmare, but also cases where everyone truly communicates for the kid's best interest. Kelly Sullivan: Exactly. If every kid had that supportive team from day one, my job wouldn't be necessary. I hope to lose my job one day because the system works so well that every child is surrounded by a "family" of support. Until then, I’m here to support the foster parents and the youth. Dawn Manske: Kelly, thank you for your time and for the heart you pour into these kids. Kelly Sullivan: Thanks for having me, Dawn. It’s always a pleasure.
Episode: Legal Freedom & Holistic Support – A Conversation with Jamie Beck Summary: Dawn sits down with Jamie Beck, the President and Managing Attorney of Free to Thrive. Jamie shares her journey from working at a major law firm to launching a nonprofit that provides holistic legal services to human trafficking survivors. They discuss the legal barriers survivors face—particularly criminal records—and how Free to Thrive’s unique mobile model meets survivors where they are to help them reclaim their lives. Key Highlights: A Massive Gap in Care: In San Diego, 80% of sex trafficking victims are U.S. citizens. Jamie noticed that while many organizations provide immigration legal services, there was a huge lack of support for domestic survivors who need help with criminal records, family law, and restraining orders. The Weight of a Criminal Record: Many survivors are forced to commit crimes (like prostitution or theft) by their traffickers. These records become a major barrier to employment and education. Jamie helped advocate for a California law that allows survivors to clear these records, which was a catalyst for starting Free to Thrive. The "Warrant Trap": Survivors often have "open" warrants because they were unable to show up to court while being trafficked. Clearing these old warrants is often the first step in helping a survivor feel safe enough to rejoin the community. Holistic Legal Support: Free to Thrive doesn't just do one thing; they handle everything from name changes and divorces to landlord-tenant issues and estate planning. They even help mothers ensure their children don't go back to a perpetrator if something happens to them. The Mobile Model: Free to Thrive is completely mobile, meeting clients at 17 different locations (residential programs, job centers, and even detention centers). This removes the barrier of transportation and meets survivors in environments where they already feel safe and supported. National Expansion: Jamie recently launched the National Survivor Law Collective (NSLC) to collaborate with similar nonprofits across the country, with the goal of turning every state on the map into a provider of comprehensive legal services for survivors. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I am excited to have Jamie Beck join us. Jamie is the President and Managing Attorney of Free to Thrive. Jamie, thank you for being here. Jamie Beck: Thank you so much for having me, Dawn. Dawn Manske: How did you end up combining the legal profession with helping survivors of trafficking? Jamie Beck: I always knew I wanted to help people, but I didn't know exactly how. While serving on the board of the Lawyers Club of San Diego, we took on the issue of human trafficking. I started a collaborative to bring together lawyers, advocates, and service providers. I took my first pro bono case for a 16-year-old girl from a loving, two-parent home. Her story broke all the stereotypes about trafficking. The more involved I got, the more I realized that while we had immigration lawyers for international victims, 80% of our local victims were U.S. citizens with no legal support for clearing criminal records or handling family law. I decided to dive in, and three years later, we’ve grown from just me to a staff of ten. Dawn Manske: What are the most common vulnerabilities you see in your clients? Jamie Beck: Every story is unique, but childhood trauma and poverty are huge threads. About 25% of our clients are former foster youth, which is very disproportionate. LGBTQ youth are also highly vulnerable because they are more likely to be kicked out of their homes and become homeless. Traffickers step in and tell them, "I’ll take care of you, I love you," to gain their trust. Dawn Manske: You mentioned that criminal records are the biggest barrier. How do you help with that? Jamie Beck: Survivors are often forced to commit crimes while being trafficked. This record stays with them, making it impossible to get jobs in retail or restaurants even after they’ve turned their lives around. We help them clear these records through a law we helped advocate for in California. We also clear old warrants. Many survivors miss court dates because they were being trafficked, and they live in fear of being arrested on an old warrant years after they've escaped. Dawn Manske: Tell us about your "mobile" model. Jamie Beck: We don't have a central office. We meet clients where they are—at 17 different locations like residential treatment programs or Goodwill Job Centers. It removes the barrier of transportation and meets them in places where they feel safe. We even have an attorney who goes into the Women's Detention Facility twice a week. About a third of our clients first meet us while they are in jail. Dawn Manske: What does the future look like for Free to Thrive? Jamie Beck: We want to expand across all of Southern California. I’ve also launched the National Survivor Law Collective to help other nonprofits around the country replicate our model. I don't want others to have to reinvent the wheel. I’m happy to share everything I’ve learned to help more survivors thrive. Dawn Manske: Jamie, thank you for your incredible work and for sharing your journey with us. Jamie Beck: Thank you, Dawn. My clients are the "why" behind everything I do. Seeing them succeed makes all the hard work worth it.
Episode: From Independence to Interdependence – A Conversation with Dr. Johanna Greeson Summary: Dawn talks with Dr. Johanna Greeson, an Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and a leading researcher in child welfare. They discuss why the traditional "life skills" approach to foster care often fails older youth and how we can better support them by focusing on "natural mentoring" and social connections. Dr. Greeson also shares details about her COVID-19 national survey for foster youth and her innovative "Yelp-style" app for social services in Philadelphia. Key Highlights: The Problem with "Independence": The federal government spends roughly $140 million annually on "independent living" skills for foster youth. However, research shows this approach hasn't moved the needle on homelessness, incarceration, or health. Dr. Greeson argues we should be teaching interdependence because no one succeeds in life alone. Natural Mentoring: Instead of assigning a stranger as a mentor, Dr. Greeson’s intervention identifies adults the youth already feels close to—teachers, neighbors, coaches, or family friends. About two-thirds of youth aging out say they still feel close to an adult they’ve known since age 14. Removing Barriers for Mentors: Many natural mentors live in the same lower-income environments as the youth. Dr. Greeson’s research highlights that we need to provide these mentors with practical support—like childcare, transportation reimbursement, or shared meals—to help them show up for the young person. Youth-Driven Learning: Rather than teaching skills in a vacuum, Dr. Greeson advocates for youth-driven learning. For example, a young person learns to balance a checkbook when they actually have a checking account, guided by their natural mentor in a real-world setting. Youth Matters Philly: Dr. Greeson co-developed a mapping app that acts like "Yelp for social services." It allows youth in Philadelphia to find food, shelter, and healthcare, and—crucially—to leave star ratings and reviews so others can find the best providers. COVID-19 Response: In response to the pandemic, her team launched a national survey to track how the crisis is affecting the housing, food security, and mental health of youth ages 18–23 who are in or have aged out of the system. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I am thrilled to talk with Dr. Johanna Greeson. She is an Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and the Director of the Child Well-being and Child Welfare specialization for MSW students. Johanna, thank you for being here. Dr. Johanna Greeson: Thank you for having me! Dawn Manske: How did you get started in this field? Dr. Johanna Greeson: My first job out of my master's was in a private foster care agency. I was struck by how little thought was given to older youth. My colleagues were at a loss for how to help them or connect them. This was in 1999, right when the Chafee Act (Foster Care Independence Act) was working its way through Congress. It was a seminal moment that started the conversation about what these young people uniquely need. Dawn Manske: What should the foster care system be doing better for these older kids? Dr. Johanna Greeson: Right now, the system focuses on "life skills" or "independent living." But the research shows this focus is largely ineffective in preventing homelessness or incarceration. I want to shift the conversation to interdependence. None of us go through life alone. I’ve developed an intervention based on "natural mentoring." This means leveraging adults the young person already feels close to—a teacher, a neighbor, an aunt, or a friend's parent. My work is about finding these people and providing them with the support they need to stay in that young person's life long after the system steps away. Dawn Manske: I love that approach. What have you learned from piloting this? Dr. Johanna Greeson: We learned that for many mentors, there are physical and financial barriers to showing up. They might need childcare to attend a meeting or help with transportation. If we want them to be there for the youth, we have to address those environmental barriers. We also found that life skills are best learned naturally. If a youth wants to learn to cook or manage money, they should do it with their mentor when the need arises—just like in an intact family. It shouldn’t be a mandatory class on something they don’t yet need. Dawn Manske: You also helped develop an app, "Youth Matters Philly." Tell us about that. Dr. Johanna Greeson: It was one of my "shower ideas!" It’s a web-based mapping app where youth can search for resources like food, clothing, or shelter. What makes it unique is that they can leave reviews. It empowers them to say, "This shelter was great," or "This healthcare provider was responsive to LGBTQ issues." It gives them a voice and helps them navigate a complex system. Dawn Manske: And you’re currently tracking how COVID-19 is impacting these youth? Dr. Johanna Greeson: Yes, we launched a national survey for ages 18–23 who are in or have aged out of care. We’re looking at housing, food security, employment, and mental health. We want to get this data out fast so advocates and practitioners can use it now to help these vulnerable young people. Dawn Manske: Johanna, thank you so much for your time and for everything you are doing to support these youth as they venture into adulthood. Dr. Johanna Greeson: My pleasure!
Episode: The Mind’s Defense Mechanism – A Conversation with Amy Joy Summary: Dawn talks with Amy Joy, an author, international speaker, and subject matter expert in human trafficking and dissociative disorders. Amy shares her personal "pivotal moment" at a women’s retreat that changed her career path and led her to discover her own dissociative identity disorder (DID). They discuss the neurobiology of trauma, common myths about DID, and Amy’s innovative "postcard system" designed to help survivors communicate when they have no words for their experiences. Key Highlights: The Accidental Discovery: Amy was in a social work program and attended a retreat just to get away after a divorce. She ended up listening to a missionary talk about domestic trafficking and realized the stories matched her own life experiences. This set her on a path of deep research and advocacy. Defining Dissociation: Amy explains dissociation as a spectrum—from "floating on the ceiling" during a trauma to Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly known as multiple personality disorder. It is a natural defense mechanism built into everyone to help survive abnormal, adverse events. Survival through "Alters": In cases of severe childhood trauma, the brain may fragment into different "alters" to hold onto traumatic memories so the core person can continue to function. These alters can have different ages, names, and even different medical conditions or allergies than the core personality. The Communication Gap: During trauma or dissociative episodes, the language center of the brain often shuts down. Amy is developing a "postcard system"—using images of body sensations, emotions, and locations—to help survivors communicate with therapists when they are physically unable to speak. Common Myths: Amy debunks the "Hollywood" version of DID (like the movie Split). People with DID are not dangerous; in fact, if they have a "persecutor" alter, that part is usually persecuting the self as a way to prevent the person from telling their story and risking further chaos. It’s Not Rare: Statistics suggest about 1.5% of the population (roughly 5 million people in the U.S.) has DID. Many are misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia because the symptoms can overlap. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, my conversation is with Amy Joy. Amy is an author and international speaker on human trafficking awareness and dissociative disorders. She is a subject matter expert in Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), a trauma-related diagnosis. Amy, welcome! Amy Joy: Thank you, Dawn. It’s so good to see you again. Dawn Manske: How did you become an expert in such a complex area? Amy Joy: Around 2011, I attended a women’s conference in Michigan. I was a newly single mom and just wanted a weekend away. The theme was human trafficking, and as I listened to the missionary speak, I realized she was describing my own life. I had no idea there were laws or definitions for what I had experienced. That was my pivotal moment. I went home and researched everything I could. I eventually got my Master’s in Public Administration and am now finishing a PhD in psychology with an emphasis on dissociative disorders. Dawn Manske: For those of us not familiar, how do you define a dissociative disorder? Amy Joy: It’s a spectrum. It starts with things like depersonalization—feeling separate from your body—and goes all the way to DID. When a child goes through severe, prolonged trauma before the age of nine or ten, the psyche separates from the physical awareness. Those traumatic memories get "downloaded" into different personality states or "alters" because the brain isn't able to integrate them into conscious awareness. It is a survival mechanism. My mind protected me from the trauma of my childhood so I could raise my kids and run businesses. Dawn Manske: Do people with DID always know they have it? Amy Joy: Not always. Many are misdiagnosed with bipolar or schizophrenia because of the sudden mood shifts or auditory hallucinations. A main indicator is "dissociative amnesia"—losing chunks of time. You might "come to" and realize you have a house full of groceries but no memory of going to the store. Dawn Manske: You mentioned you're working on a new way for survivors to communicate? Amy Joy: Yes. During a dissociative episode, the part of the brain that controls language often shuts down. You literally have no words. My therapist and I developed a postcard system. We use cards with pictures of body sensations, emotions, or places. Instead of having to tell a narrative, a survivor can just point to cards to show what they are feeling or where a memory is located. It allows the healing process to begin even when the words aren't there yet. Dawn Manske: What do you wish people understood better about this diagnosis? Amy Joy: I wish people knew it’s a naturally occurring process. It’s not "evil spirits" or something from a horror movie. It’s not rare, either—about 1.5% of people have it. It’s just how the brain protects itself. Once the story is able to be told, even in small pieces, that’s when the real healing can finally start. Dawn Manske: Amy, thank you for being a "research nerd" and using your own journey to help so many others. Amy Joy: Thank you for the opportunity to talk about it, Dawn.
Episode: Follow the Money – A Conversation with Joanne Alesha Summary: Dawn sits down with Joanne Alesha, a senior compliance officer at JPMorgan Chase with over 10 years of experience in fraud and anti-money laundering. Joanne shares the incredible eight-year journey of how she lobbied the U.S. government to add a "human trafficking" checkbox to the Suspicious Activity Report (SAR). They discuss how human trafficking is fundamentally a financial crime and how "following the money" through bank accounts, prepaid cards, and travel records is one of the most effective ways for law enforcement to prosecute traffickers. Key Highlights: The Catalyst: In 2010, while working as a risk analyst, Joanne received an email from a bank colleague flagging a prepaid MasterCard for human trafficking. The card had 50 to 100 small spends on Craigslist in a single month. This was Joanne's wake-up call that "buying and selling humans" happens through the financial system. The Missing Checkbox: Joanne realized that while the SAR (the form banks use to report illicit activity to the government) had boxes for "Terrorist Financing" and "Elder Abuse," it had no box for human trafficking. Reporting it required navigating a "roadblock" of bureaucracy. The Eight-Year Lobby: Joanne spent years writing articles, speaking at conferences, and eventually going to Congress. She worked with Congressman Ted Poe and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney to draft a letter to FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) demanding the update. The White House Intervention: After being told "no" by FinCEN officials who claimed the update would cost a million dollars, Joanne began emailing the White House directly. This eventually led to a conference call with FinCEN officials who were forced to listen to her case. The Victory: In June 2018, FinCEN finally released a new SAR form with checkbox 38H for "Human Trafficking." As of January 2019, it is now mandatory for all financial institutions to use this form. Empowering Law Enforcement: By checking this box, financial institutions allow law enforcement to search for traffickers specifically through their financial footprint—cash deposits, hotel stays, ride-shares, and airline tickets. This provides the concrete evidence needed for convictions that goes beyond "he said, she said" testimony. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, my conversation is with Joanne Alesha. Joanne is a senior compliance officer at JPMorgan Chase and an expert in anti-money laundering. Joanne, welcome! Joanne Alesha: Dawn, thank you so much for this opportunity to speak on fighting the horrific crime of human trafficking. Dawn Manske: Most of us don't think about the financial side of trafficking. How did you get involved in this? Joanne Alesha: In 2010, I was a risk analyst for prepaid cards. I thought I had everything under control until I saw a card flagged for human trafficking. The user was spending small amounts on Craigslist ads—dozens of them a month. I realized that if you are buying or selling a human, you’re often using a bank account or a credit card to do it. It is a financial crime. Dawn Manske: You spent seven years lobbying for a change to the "SAR." Can you explain what that is? Joanne Alesha: A SAR is a Suspicious Activity Report. Every financial institution is required by law to file one if they see illicit activity like money laundering or fraud. But back in 2010, there was no box for "human trafficking." I thought it was plain common sense to add one, but I was told it would take an act of Congress. Dawn Manske: So you went to Congress? Joanne Alesha: I did! I met Congressman Ted Poe at an event and had 60 seconds to pitch him. He loved the idea. But even with a letter from a Congressman, FinCEN told us no. They said it would cost too much and that law enforcement hadn't asked for it. Dawn Manske: How did you finally break through that "no"? Joanne Alesha: I started emailing the White House through their website over and over again. One day, I got an email from FinCEN saying they were contacting me on behalf of the White House. I had to "duke it out" on a conference call with their experts, but I didn't give up. Finally, in 2018, they released the new form with checkbox 38H for human trafficking. Dawn Manske: What does that checkbox mean for a survivor or for law enforcement? Joanne Alesha: It changes everything. It changes the entire culture of compliance. Now, law enforcement can search specifically for human trafficking cases in the financial system. We follow the money—the hotel rooms, the car rentals, the cash deposits. It provides the proof that traffickers can't argue with in court. It’s a huge step toward justice. Dawn Manske: Joanne, thank you for your incredible perseverance. Eight years is a long time to fight for a checkbox, but it's making a massive difference. Joanne Alesha: Thank you, Dawn. We should never look away. We must follow the money.
Episode: From Pie Crusts to Lavender Farms – A Conversation with Lucy Bloom Summary: Dawn speaks with Lucy Bloom, the Executive Director of Veronica’s Voice in Kansas City. Lucy shares the tragic story behind the organization's namesake and discusses their mission to empower women exiting commercial sexual exploitation. They dive into the "DNA" of survivors leading survivors, the importance of long-term residential care, and the heartwarming evolution of their social enterprise—which grew from baking holiday pies to managing a four-acre urban lavender farm. Key Highlights: The Story of Veronica: The organization is named in honor of Veronica Nevaduszky, a 21-year-old mother of three who was murdered by a buyer after being forced into the life at age 14. Her death galvanized the Kansas City community to create a safe place where women truly belong. Survivors Leading Survivors: Veronica’s Voice was founded by Christie Childs, a survivor of 24 years. The organization focuses on the reality that the "current system" often fails survivors by not offering long-term enough support. They follow the "Thistle Farms" model, offering two years of rent-free, community living with intensive services. The "Christmas Pie" Breakthrough: The social enterprise started in 2017 when a resident wanted to earn money to buy Christmas gifts for her children. They decided to sell pies using a resident's grandmother’s recipe, making nearly $2,000 that first season. The Lavender Evolution: The success of the pies led to bath bombs, which led to an interest in essential oils, and eventually a partnership for a four-acre urban lavender farm in Kansas City. They now produce eye pillows, lotions, and even lavender cheesecake. Economics of Freedom: Lucy explains that for every $1 put into the social enterprise, they see a $2.50 to $3.50 return that goes directly back into services for the women. Their goal is to move beyond stipends and eventually provide 35 full-time jobs. Growth in Isolation: Despite the pandemic, Veronica's Voice has brought critical services like trauma counseling, financial literacy, and occupational therapy in-house to ensure the "clock doesn't stop" on recovery for the women they serve. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, I’m excited to introduce Lucy Bloom, the Executive Director of Veronica’s Voice. Lucy, thank you for being here. Lucy Bloom: Thank you, Dawn. I love that you’re showing people they can make a difference right where they are. Dawn Manske: Tell us about the history of Veronica’s Voice. It has a very poignant origin. Lucy Bloom: It does. We were founded by Christie Childs, a survivor herself. At the time, she was often called by the police to identify bodies of women who had been murdered because these women often had no IDs or emergency contacts. One day, it was the body of 21-year-old Veronica Nevaduszky. Veronica wasn't a "Jane Doe"; she was known by local service providers who were trying to help her and her three children. Her death hit the community so hard that the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth gave Christie $25,000 to start a nonprofit in Veronica’s honor. Dawn Manske: You use a very specialized model for your residential program. Lucy Bloom: Yes, we follow the Thistle Farms model. Women live in community with no "authority figure" living in the house. They can stay for two years rent-free, which gives them the time they actually need to heal from a lifetime of trauma. Dawn Manske: I love your social enterprise story. How did baking pies turn into a business? Lucy Bloom: It was holiday season in 2017. One of our residents desperately wanted to buy gifts for her children and grandchildren. We sat in the living room and asked, "What can we sell that isn't our bodies?" I shared a story about making pies once, and another gal offered her grandmother’s crust recipe. We made $2,000 that first year. That money bought the equipment for bath bombs, which led us to essential oils and eventually to our urban lavender farm. Now we make everything from lip balms to hand sanitizers. Dawn Manske: What does the future look like for you guys? Lucy Bloom: One house isn't enough; we have a waiting list and we want to grow to seven homes and 35 jobs. We've also started bringing everything in-house—counseling, financial planning, job training. We can't wait for the world to "open up" again because the clock is ticking for these women. Recovery is about opportunity, and we have to create those opportunities ourselves. Dawn Manske: Lucy, thank you for your passion and for paving the way for the next woman to come home. Lucy Bloom: Thank you, Dawn.
Episode: From Red Lights to Independence – A Conversation with Olivia Watkins Summary: Dawn connects with Olivia Watkins, the Executive Director of Beauty for Ashes Nepal. Olivia shares her journey from a short-term trip at 16 to leading a social enterprise in one of the poorest countries in the world. They discuss the critical need for long-term employment after survivors leave transition homes, the unique challenges of working in remote mountain regions to prevent trafficking, and the restorative power of community and a simple birthday cake. Key Highlights: The Bridge to Independence: Beauty for Ashes was founded to fill a gap. While many organizations provide 6–12 months of transition care, survivors often lack job opportunities afterward, leaving them highly vulnerable to being re-trafficked. Beauty for Ashes provides long-term employment so women can live independently and support their families. Trafficking in Nepal: Olivia discusses the unique vulnerabilities in Nepal, including extreme poverty, the "devaluation of the girl child," and the open border with India. She notes that exploitation isn't always sexual; it also includes migrant labor and mining where passports are seized and wages are withheld. Prevention on the Mountain: To fight trafficking at the source, Beauty for Ashes opened an office in a remote, high-risk district—a location so isolated it requires a six-hour drive and a two-hour hike to reach. By creating jobs for women there, they give girls inherent value within the family structure, making them less likely to be "sold" for survival. Restoring Worth Through Community: Olivia shares that for many survivors, the "family" and "sisters" they find at work are as important as the paycheck. Learning a new skill, like sewing a headband, builds the confidence they need to realize their worth and say "no" to future exploitation. The First Birthday: Olivia recounts the moving story of a staff member who celebrated her first-ever birthday at the office. The simple act of a cake and the attention of her peers was overwhelming but transformative, marking a shift from fear to joy. A 20-Year Journey Home: Olivia shares the success story of a woman trafficked before she was 16 who spent 20 years in an Indian red light district. After an eight-month process to bring her back to Nepal, she is now thriving and learning to sew, proving it is never too late for restoration. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, my conversation is with Olivia Watkins, the Executive Director of Beauty for Ashes Nepal. Olivia, welcome! Olivia Watkins: Thank you, Dawn! It’s great to connect with everyone from here in Nepal. Dawn Manske: How did you end up with this passion? Olivia Watkins: It started when I was 16 on a trip to South America that "popped my bubble." I realized the privilege I lived in and wanted to use my life to bless others. After university, I didn't see any open doors until a friend told me, "If you feel called, you just need to go." I got on a plane to Nepal right after the 2015 earthquake. I walked into Beauty for Ashes, shared my heart for marketing and merchandising, and eventually transitioned into the Executive Director role. Dawn Manske: Why is long-term employment so vital for these women? Olivia Watkins: Our founder, Ellen, worked in transition homes and saw that women would finish a program but have nowhere to go. Without a job, the risk of being re-trafficked is incredibly high. We want to be that safe place where they can settle into an independent life—renting their own apartments and taking care of their kids. Dawn Manske: Nepal has some extreme vulnerabilities, like poverty and those open borders with India. How are you addressing the prevention side? Olivia Watkins: It’s a bit crazy, but we opened an office on top of a mountain in one of the highest-trafficked districts. You have to hike two hours just to get there. By providing jobs for women in these remote areas, we change the family dynamic. When a daughter is bringing home an income, she is seen as an asset rather than a burden, which prevents families from listening to traffickers who promise a better life elsewhere. Dawn Manske: You mentioned that community is a huge part of the healing process. Olivia Watkins: It is. I recently asked the women if they were proud of their work. They all started crying and told me it was because they finally had "sisters" and a family. Many of these women have had their trust broken so deeply. Watching someone who spent 20 years in a red light district gain the confidence to sew a headband and chat with her friends on the sewing floor is a huge victory. It shows that they finally feel secure in their own value. Dawn Manske: Olivia, thank you for your bravery and for the amazing transformation you’re helping to lead in Nepal. Olivia Watkins: Thank you so much for having me.
Episode: The Power of Identification – A Conversation with Glenn Whaley Summary: Dawn talks with Glenn Whaley, the CEO and Publisher of STM Learning. Glenn shares how a chance meeting with a pediatrician nearly 30 years ago led him to start a publishing company dedicated to the awareness and protection of victims of maltreatment. They discuss the critical role that highly detailed medical imagery plays in identifying abuse, how technology has shifted the publishing world from massive print runs to digital subscriptions, and the rewarding feedback from professionals whose work has saved children’s lives using STM’s resources. Key Highlights: Filling a Void: About 29 years ago, Glenn learned from a pediatrician that there was almost no medical content written specifically about child maltreatment. This spurred him to publish his first two-volume set, which contained over 1,200 images of abuse and maltreatment. Visual Diagnosis: While the images can be graphic and difficult to look at, they are essential tools for medical practitioners, investigators, and attorneys. These images help professionals accurately identify, interpret, and report different forms of abuse. The "Team Effect": Glenn explains that identifying abuse is a multidisciplinary process. It often starts with a medical professional identifying an injury, which then involves law enforcement for investigation, and finally a prosecutor to bring a case. STM’s books serve every step of that chain. Mimics of Abuse: One of the most important functions of Glenn’s publications is helping professionals distinguish between actual child abuse and medical conditions that "mimic" abuse, ensuring that accusations are accurate and evidence-based. The Digital Transition: Glenn has steered STM through the evolution of publishing—from traditional offset printing to "print on demand," and now to a comprehensive digital library and subscription model that makes life-saving information accessible in minutes. Real-World Impact: Glenn shares that the most rewarding part of his job is hearing from customers at conferences who tell him that an STM publication helped them save a child's life or put a perpetrator behind bars. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, my conversation is with Glenn Whaley. Glenn is the CEO and Publisher of STM Learning, a company that produces books and training resources with one focus: advocating for the awareness and protection of victims of maltreatment. Glenn, welcome! Glenn Whaley: Thank you very much, Dawn. Dawn Manske: We met several years ago at a conference in Dallas, and I remember you showing me these massive books. I have to admit, my eyes were not ready for the images inside. They were very graphic. Why is that imagery so necessary for what you do? Glenn Whaley: We work with medical practitioners, investigators, and prosecuting attorneys. Our content is structured to help them identify, interpret, and report different forms of abuse. Those images help physicians with diagnosis and treatment. There are also many "mimics" of child abuse—injuries or conditions that look like abuse but aren't. It’s a team effort between medical, law enforcement, and legal professionals to make sure a determination is 100% certain. Dawn Manske: How did you get started in such a niche field? Glenn Whaley: I attended a medical conference nearly 30 years ago where a pediatrician mentioned there was no written content on child maltreatment, despite it being a major problem in the U.S. I decided to produce a product that would help save children's lives. We published our first two-volume set a year later. It was 1,400 pages with 1,200 images. I printed 10,000 sets and sold every one of them. Dawn Manske: That’s incredible. And people kept asking for more? Glenn Whaley: Yes. They wanted quick references, curriculum, and content on sexual assault, domestic violence, and neglect. One book led to another, and now we have an extensive library covering all these subjects, including childhood diseases. Dawn Manske: How has technology changed the way you get this information to people? Glenn Whaley: I’ve always embraced technology. We were one of the first publishers in St. Louis to use Macintosh computers. We’ve moved from massive offset printing to "print on demand," and now we have an ebook library and a subscription format. A customer can now access our entire library for a very reasonable price and have the information they need in minutes. Dawn Manske: Can you share a story of the impact these books have had? Glenn Whaley: At medical conferences, customers will come up to our table and tell us stories of how our products helped save a child’s life or helped them put a perpetrator behind bars. That is very rewarding. It’s the greatest asset of publishing—knowing that our content answers a real need and makes a tangible difference. Dawn Manske: Glenn, thank you for your passion and for providing such a vital resource to the people fighting for the vulnerable. Glenn Whaley: Thank you, Dawn.
Episode: Renewing Hope & Upcycled Leather – A Conversation with Kristin Keen Summary: Dawn sits down with Kristin Keen, the founder of Rethreaded. Kristin spent five years in India working in the red light districts of Kolkata, where she helped start a business to empower survivors. Upon returning to the U.S., she applied those same principles of economic empowerment and community to start Rethreaded in Jacksonville, Florida. They discuss Rethreaded’s unique business model, their partnership with Southwest Airlines, and their mission to release the potential of survivors through long-term employment. Key Highlights: Lessons from Kolkata: Kristin spent five years in the Sonagachi red light district. Her two biggest takeaways were: 1) Economically empowering a woman in a new community will change her life. 2) When a woman leaves that life, she won't leave alone—she will bring others with her. The Power of Economic Empowerment: Rethreaded provides long-term employment (2–3 years) for survivors. This gives them the time and stability to heal through mental health services while gaining practical career and business training so they can "go out and change the world" afterward. Upcycled Products with a Purpose: Rethreaded makes products from upcycled t-shirts (often misprints from printers) and leather airline seats. The Southwest Airlines Partnership: Kristin shares the "crazy" story of how Southwest Airlines called them to offer discarded leather seats for upcycling. They now also receive high-end luxury leather from private jet companies, which they turn into beautiful, purposeful gifts. Scaling for Impact: Rethreaded is currently moving from a 2,800-square-foot space to a 36,000-square-foot building. This expansion will allow them to never have to say "no" to a survivor and to potentially start a logistics and fulfillment center for other social enterprises. Renewing Hope: Kristin describes it as an honor to see women who were "written off" by society reveal their true potential and dreams. Rethreaded’s mission is to renew hope, reignite dreams, and release potential. Full Transcript (Edited for Readability) Dawn Manske: Welcome to Impact Conversations. Today, my conversation is with Kristin Keen. Kristin spent several years in India and is the founder of Rethreaded. Kristin, welcome! Kristin Keen: Thank you so much for having me, Dawn. Dawn Manske: Tell us about your time in Kolkata. You were there for five years, right? Kristin Keen: Yes. I went there wanting women to know their worth. My friend Sarah and I spent two years just sitting in the red light district, listening and learning the language. Eventually, we realized we had to do more than just be present. We started a blanket-making business with three women. By the time I left, it had grown to 30, and now it employs over 120 people. My biggest takeaway was that if you empower a woman and put her in a new community, she will change her life—and she won't leave that life alone. She’ll bring people with her. I see that same truth happening now in Jacksonville with Rethreaded. Dawn Manske: How did Rethreaded start once you returned to the States? Kristin Keen: I knew my work wasn't done. I started running home parties, selling products made by survivors in India. Then, I met a survivor in my own church in Jacksonville. I went with her to the area where her trauma happened, and I realized it was the same story as in India—vulnerability met with exploitation. I knew the answer: economic empowerment plus a new community. Dawn Manske: Rethreaded has a very unique model. Explain what you do. Kristin Keen: We provide long-term employment for survivors—usually two to three years—so they can get stable and healed. We combine that with career training and mental health services. We are a purposeful gift company. We upcycle t-shirts and leather airline seats into new products. Dawn Manske: I have to ask—how did you end up with airline seats? Kristin Keen: Southwest Airlines actually called us! They asked if we wanted to be part of their upcycling program. We had no idea what we were going to make out of leather, but we said yes and figured it out. Now we even get luxury leather from private jet companies. Dawn Manske: You’re moving into a much larger space soon. What are your hopes for the future? Kristin Keen: We’re moving from 2,800 square feet to 36,000! My goal is for Rethreaded to have the capacity to never say "no" to a survivor. If she needs a job, we want to provide it. Long-term, I’d love to run a fulfillment center for other "freedom companies" and train our women in logistics so they can get high-paying jobs in that field. Dawn Manske: What excites you most about the impact you’re making? Kristin Keen: I love that we get to see what’s inside these women. They’ve experienced extreme judgment and have been written off, but we get to see their hope renewed and their dreams reignited. It’s my greatest honor to stand with them on this journey. Dawn Manske: Kristin, thank you for your heart and for the incredible impact you’re making. Kristin Keen: Thank you, Dawn.
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