It’s the holiday season! This episode unpacks the heightened prevalence of gender-based violence during this time. In identifying stressors that may contribute to increased rates of perpetration, we can better understand how to support survivors who may be isolated and prevent harm. Additionally, the conversation addresses the role of family and friends not only as support through healing processes, but as potential active bystanders in dangerous situations. 

Shelby Lieber (she/her) is the Survivor Coordinator at the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence (OAESV). Prior to joining OAESV, Shelby gained extensive experience in a dual domestic violence and sexual violence shelter in Ohio, where she took on various roles. She is a nationally credentialed advocate through the National Organization for Victim Assistance and holds an Advanced Registered Advocate Credential in Ohio. Throughout her career, Shelby has delivered many trainings on topics such as strangulation advocacy with sexual violence survivors and the challenges survivors face after disclosing their experiences. In her free time, Shelby enjoys spending quality time with her partner, Cory, and creating lasting memories with their 3-year-old. 

Angela Knighten MSW, LSW, currently the Shelter Director for Bethany House who serves an average of 40-45 families daily in emergency shelter has been a social worker and advocate for vulnerable children and families for over 20 years. Angela received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Mount St. Joseph University with minors in Psychology, Sociology, and Religious Studies. She then went on to obtain her Masters in Social Work from Northern Kentucky University where she specialized in Trauma Informed Care. Angela continues her work with vulnerable people and has added community service to her resume as a way to continue her love of teaching and learning. She currently serves as an advisory board member for the Department of Social Work at Mount St. Joseph University and was elected in November 2023 as a Winton Woods City Schools Board of Education Member. She additionally enjoys pouring into the up and coming social workers in the field and provides adjunct instruction, mentorship, and internship for many local students. 

Visit our website to learn more about Women Helping Women and our services: ⁠https://www.womenhelpingwomen.org/⁠. To engage with the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence and Bethany House services, follow these links: https://oaesv.org/ , https://bethanyhouseservices.org/ .