Smart Talks

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Gabor Maté delves into the deep and lasting impact of trauma, explaining that trauma is not defined by what happens to us, but by the inner wounds those experiences leave behind. He unpacks the complexities of healing, the significance of memory, and the essential role of personal responsibility in recovery. Dr. Maté introduces compassionate inquiry—a practice of exploring one’s pain with openne...

Survivor, Advocate, and Athlete Summer Willis reflects on her powerful journey of reclaiming strength in the aftermath of trauma. She opens up about how her experience has shaped her life, why telling her story matters, and what drives her to push for legal reforms that better protect and support survivors. Her dialogue underscores not only her own resilience but also the courage of others who have faced similar challenges, highlig...

Emily Kennerk opens up about the inspiring story behind BITCHSTIX, the lip balm brand with a bold mission: empowering women and supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Emily reflects on the challenges of launching a purpose-driven business, the power of community in driving change, and the profound impact of giving back. She speaks candidly about the importance of believing survivors and how open conversations...

McKinli Hatch is a social media influencer, entrepreneur, and single mom who bravely shares her personal journey as a survivor of domestic violence to inspire healing, connection, and hope for others. In this episode of Smart Talks, McKinli shares her deeply personal experience with domestic violence and the courage it took to reclaim her voice and tell her story publicly. She discusses the healing power of vulnerability, the judgm...

Dr. Susan Madsen sheds light on the urgent and complex issues of violence against women — including domestic abuse, sexual assault, and child maltreatment. She underscores the critical need for increased awareness, comprehensive education, and unwavering support for survivors.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Madsen confronts the systemic barriers that hinder reporting and access to resources, calling for meaningful policy reform an...

Tana Amen is a New York Times bestselling author, health expert, trauma survivor, and the vice president of the Amen Clinics. Her powerful story of healing and resilience continues to inspire others to reclaim their voices and rewrite their narratives.

In this deeply personal conversation, Tana reflects on her journey from a childhood shaped by trauma and abuse to becoming a fierce advocate for mental health, healing, and self-worth...

Actress, Entrepreneur and Fitness Expert Amanda Kloots opens up about her powerful journey from Broadway performer to entrepreneur, navigating the unimaginable loss of her husband to COVID-19 while raising their young son. With honesty and grace, she shares the complexities of grieving in the public eye, the challenges of solo parenting through heartbreak, and the profound role community played in her healing.

Through her story, Ama...

Dive into the critical topic of digital safety for children, exploring the innovative technology behind CyberDive’s Aqua One phone and the essential role parents play in guiding their kids’ online lives. Co-founder Jeff shares the powerful personal journey that inspired the creation of CyberDive, shedding light on the real dangers young users face today—like sextortion, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content. The conversati...

Kate Casey shares her remarkable journey from aspiring politician to acclaimed storyteller and interviewer, offering insight into how her personal history and childhood experiences shaped her career and passion for uncovering truth. With depth and vulnerability, she explores the transformative power of empathy in storytelling, the art of meaningful interviews, and the lasting impact of the Milton Hershey School on her values and wo...

In this powerful and deeply moving conversation, Cami courageously shares her journey as a survivor of domestic and sexual violence, shedding light on the emotional and legal battles she faced in the aftermath. Her story reveals the painful gaps and systemic failures within the justice system—failures that too often leave survivors feeling unheard, unprotected, and retraumatized.

Through honest reflection, Cammie emphasizes the tran...

Netflix star Mary Bonnet from Selling Sunset opens up about her journey from a small-town upbringing in Indiana to becoming a recognized name in luxury real estate and reality television. She shares the transformative experience of becoming a young mother, the challenges that shaped her, and the unwavering support of her family. In a deeply personal and candid conversation, Mary reflects on the impact of sexual assault, the long pa...

PLEASE NOTE: This conversation regarding Elizabeth's results starts at 22:30, with the first part of the episode containing the conversation Elizabeth and Heather have with Dr. Amen from this season's episode 2. 

In this conversation, Elizabeth Smart shares her harrowing experience of being kidnapped and the subsequent challenges she faced during and after her rescue. She discusses the fear of not being believed,...

In the finale episode of Season 4 of Smart Talks, the hosts reflect on the impactful stories shared throughout the season, highlighting the resilience of survivors and the complex nature of justice. They discuss the importance of sharing personal narratives to inspire others and emphasize the need for a compassionate society that supports survivors. If you have enjoyed this season of Smart Talks, we ask that you please leave us a r...

Taryn Evans shares her powerful journey as a survivor of sexual assault and her experiences navigating the criminal justice system as an attorney. She discusses her background in family law, the challenges she faced after her assault, and the importance of advocacy and awareness in supporting victims. Taryn emphasizes the need for systemic change and alternative avenues for justice, while also providing insights into the emotional ...

We are excited to introduce todays guest on Smart Talks, Dr. John Foubert! Dr. Foubert brings decades of experience and research in the areas of pornography and sexual violence. He served for 5 years as the Highly Qualified Expert for Sexual Assault Prevention for the U.S. Army. He also founded the national nonprofit organization, One in Four, an organization that worked for 20 years to apply research to rape prevention programs on...

We are so excited to share our powerful conversation with singer, actress, podcast host and NY Times Best Selling Author, Jana Kramer. Jana shares her journey from experiencing domestic violence to becoming an advocate for survivors. She discusses the challenges of opening up about her past, the importance of understanding the complexities of abusive relationships, and the green flags she found in her current marriage. 

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Meet the amazing Jessica Willis Fisher! Jess shares her journey from a tumultuous childhood as the oldest of 12 in a controlling and abusive environment to reclaiming her voice through music and storytelling. She discusses the complexities of growing up in a religious household, the impact of familial abuse, and the survival mechanisms that kept her going. Jess emphasizes the importance of understanding the dynamics of abuse and th...

Join us for a powerful conversation with business leader and entrepreneur John Miller. In this episode, John reflects on the recent release of Hometown Betrayal. This book is based on the true story of his late wife, Valarie Clark Miller, who endured childhood sexual abuse, and the family’s fight for justice.

John opens up about the lasting effects of generational trauma and the importance of breaking the silence around ab...

Emily Fauver is a military wife, mama to two, and social media influencer! She shares her inspiring journey from a troubled childhood marked by abandonment and abuse to becoming a beacon of hope and resilience. She discusses her experiences in the foster care system, the importance of vulnerability in sharing her story, and her commitment to breaking the cycle of trauma for her own children. Emily emphasizes the power of love, conn...