True Crime Connections ~ Advocacy Podcast

When family becomes the villain, the betrayal cuts deeper than anything else. Donna Hall from The Hall Closet shares how she uncovered her family’s shocking ties to two infamous Philadelphia murder cases, the role her own mother played in trying to frame her brother, and the devastating impact of generational abuse and lies. What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How Donna’s mother became entangled...

 What should have been another night preparing for war turned into a nightmare when a fellow soldier turned on his own. Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack recounts the events of the 2003 Camp Pennsylvania insider attack, the lives lost, and the lessons he learned in leadership, awareness, and resilience.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ What really happened the night of the attack ✅ How Bar...

 After surviving narcissistic abuse and a devastating car accident, Sky Bellarmine rebuilt her life from the ground up. In this inspiring episode, she shares how the 90% Rule helped her move from survival to purpose — and how you can use it to transform your own life.  How to contact: https://www.skyebellarmine.com/ Let’s Chat! Support the show 🎙️ Want better interviews? Learn how to create conver...

When Jonathan Farley ’s brother took control of their mother’s life through guardianship, the result was forced isolation, involuntary medication, and years of emotional abuse. Jonathan now fights to expose these abuses and push for laws that protect the most vulnerable.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How families can weaponize legal systems ✅ Guardianship red flags to spot before it’s to...

At 50 years old, Peter J. Boni learned he was donor-conceived — a truth that uprooted his identity and reawakened old wounds. In this episode, Peter shares his journey to healing, his advocacy for the rights of donor-conceived individuals, and his book, Uprooted .  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Peter’s shocking discovery and emotional aftermath ✅ Why knowing your biological history matter...

High-conflict divorce strategist Lisa Johnson shares how she fought back against legal abuse, helped pass Jennifer’s Law, and found her way to peace after years of court chaos. This episode offers strategies for anyone battling a toxic ex in family court.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Signs you’re facing legal abuse ✅ How to organize evidence that actually matters ✅ Why emotional detach...

Reneé Rodriguez , founder of Best Foot Forward , reveals the harsh truth about custody battles with narcissistic co-parents and how the system often traps protective parents. Learn what post-separation abuse really looks like, how to gather evidence legally, and why a custody blueprint could be the key to winning your case.  Inside this episode:  ✔️ What “post-separation abuse” really looks like ✔...

Lisa Gerardy opens up about uncovering generational trauma masked as “normal” and how she broke toxic patterns. This episode offers hope, practical insight, and inspiration for anyone still carrying the weight of their childhood.  Inside this episode: The invisible trauma of growing up in dysfunction What it means to redefine “normal” on your own terms How Lisa found healing, self-love, and her vo...

Nicole Elaine Avery shares her experience growing up under what she believes were generational curses — and how she broke free. This conversation explores the intersection of trauma, culture, and spirituality, offering hope for those seeking healing on every level. What you’ll learn in this episode:  ✅ How cultural beliefs about witchcraft shaped Nicole’s family  ✅ The connection between trauma...

Is the one you love destroying you? Discover the warning signs of a toxic relationship with Mia Hanks , as she shares her story of enduring covert abuse. This episode offers crucial relationship advice for anyone questioning their bond. Nearly three decades in a marriage with a covert narcissist left Mia Hanks drained, isolated, and questioning her worth. Mia reveals the warning signs she missed,...

Sean McClure 's story highlights the impact of childhood trauma on future outcomes, specifically incarceration. Understanding the link between adverse childhood experiences and the criminal justice system is crucial for prison reform. This video emphasizes the need for healing and breaking cycles to prevent future trauma. From nearly 25 years in prison to becoming a mental health advocate. Sh...

When Emma Jean Rowin met him, it felt like a fairytale. But the deeper she fell, the more the mask slipped, revealing a man consumed by delusion and control. In this gripping episode, Emma shares her true story of how love turned into psychological warfare. From manipulation to fear, and finally, to freedom, her journey is a raw, emotional reminder of the dangers of toxic relationships — and the p...

 This special Podcasthon episode with RAINN sheds light on the realities of sexual violence, the myths that harm survivors, and how we can create real change. Whether you need resources or want to be part of the fight, this conversation offers both hope and action steps.    Need help? Reach out to RAINN at rainn.org or call 800.656.HOPE for confidential support.  Plus, discover more impactful char...

Detective Heidi Chance breaks down the myths, realities, and red flags of human trafficking, offering parents and communities practical tools to protect children and fight back.  What you’ll learn: ✔️ The key differences between human trafficking and smuggling ✔️ How traffickers use coercion, fraud, and manipulation—not just force ✔️ The shocking truth about online predators and how they groom vic...

Over 369,000 children are in the foster care system today, many facing trauma, educational struggles, and the looming risk of homelessness or incarceration.   Sharon Dunlevy exposes the hidden barriers foster kids face and offers practical ways to break cycles of instability, from educational advocacy to empowering foster parents.  Inside this episode: ✔️ Why 20% of foster youth end up incarcerate...

Zulma Williams, founder of Dragon Therapy Services, shares how surviving domestic abuse and cancer led her to embrace radical honesty, fierce self-love, and yes — a few well-timed F-bombs. What you’ll get from this episode:  ✔️ How to stop bottling emotions and start releasing them in healthy (and loud) ways  ✔️ The truth about fear of success—and how to stop sabotaging your growth  ✔️ Why putting...

Ami Herrick opens up about her experiences in the trans community, the societal pressures that fuel crises, and how acceptance and dialogue can change lives.  You’ll learn: ✔️ How society’s expectations fuel mental health crises in the trans community ✔️ The role of fundamentalism (both religious and secular) in reinforcing harmful divides ✔️ Why gender identity is more complex than you think—and...

Patrick Doyle opens up about his journey from an abusive childhood to recovery and self-discovery, sharing the hidden signs of emotional abuse, the traps of denial, and the power of community in healing. We dive deep into: The hidden signs of emotional abuse How denial traps both abusers and survivors The critical role of safety and community in healing The power of reclaiming your self-worth How...

Ori Goldstein discusses how childhood trauma shapes our beliefs and how breaking those patterns can free us to live authentically and without fear.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How limiting beliefs keep you stuck in self-sabotage ✅ The connection between childhood trauma and adult fears ✅ Tools for uncovering your authentic self ✅ Why happiness is found in the journey, not the destina...

Batrice Cordova opens up about her path from addiction and loss to healing and love, showing it’s possible to rebuild no matter how far you’ve fallen.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How to recognize your worth and seek help ✅ The role of self-forgiveness in healing ✅ How a supportive partner can aid recovery ✅ Turning pain and loss into a reason to live fully This story proves it’s neve...

Brooke DeBoer discusses the lasting effects of bullying, the healing process, and how to build healthy relationships by knowing your worth and setting boundaries.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How childhood bullying impacts adult relationships ✅ Why processing pain is essential for moving forward ✅ The role of boundaries in protecting your peace ✅ How to identify and release toxic rela...

Stephanie Sifrit shares her fight for justice after her mother was abused in a nursing home, advocating for laws that allow families to protect loved ones in care.  What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How abuse happens in care facilities ✅ The urgent need for legislative change ✅ Why families should have the right to install cameras ✅ How to advocate for those who can’t speak for themselves T...

From a troubled past to a life of purpose — this is Sean’s story. In this episode, Sean Hemeon — actor, author, and former drug dealer — shares his journey from addiction, heartbreak, and self-destruction to sobriety, healing, and redemption. Known for his roles in True Blood and Criminal Minds, Sean opens up about resilience, love, and second chances. What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ How chi...

Join us for a heartfelt episode where we explore the profound impact of domestic violence and the urgent need for prevention and protection. My guests, Nichole and Jim Schmidt from the Gabby Petito Foundation, share their heartbreaking journey following the tragic loss of their daughter, Gabby Petito, in 2021. They discuss the vital importance of recognizing the signs of domestic abuse, which affe...

Hello!! Can you believe 2024 is almost over and 2025 is just around the corner? This year has been gratifying, filled with memorable moments like filming live on Alcatraz Island. I'm excited to share some of these highlights and to give you a glimpse of what's on the horizon for 2025, including the amazing lineup starting in January.  Let’s Chat! Support the show 🎙️ Want better interview...