Aware And Prepared

GREAT platform for navigating relational harm and for survivors navigating co-parenting after abuse. Anne shares how Aimee Says (AI platform) can help spot coercive control, document patterns for legal and custody proceedings, and lighten the mental load that comes with every notification. You'll also hear how popular co-parenting apps fit into the picture, what privacy protections survivors should look for in AI tools, and why reducing the impact on your nervous system is part of healing, especially for those living with complex PTSD.

Post-separation abuse often continues through co-parenting messages, custody disputes, and the constant pressure of documenting every incident, all while your nervous system is still in survival mode.

Listen in, lighten your load, and share with others!

RESOURCES

• Aimee Says - AI support platform for survivors of relationship abuse that helps document co-parenting experiences and recognize abusive patterns.
• Aimee Detects - Aimee Says tool that turns your communication records into evidence. 
• OurFamilyWizard - Co-parenting communication app often mandated by courts that creates a permanent record of messages.
• TalkingParents - Co-parenting communication app that keeps a secure, unalterable record of exchanges between co-parents.

Connect with Anne Wintemute:

• Website: AimeeSays.com
• Instagram: @aimeesaysdv
• LinkedIn: Anne Wintemute 

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

Approximate Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction to Anne Wintemute and Amy Says

[02:08] How AimeeSays supports survivors and co-parenting

[04:01] Privacy stance and data security in AI tools

[06:49] Overview of co-parenting apps and Aimee Detects

[09:57] Using Aimee Detects to analyze communication records

[12:37] Impact of trauma and complex PTSD on survivors

[16:48] Softening the bull ride: reducing trauma impact

[20:46] Integrating AI with existing co-parenting apps

[26:36] Advice for using AI tools in co-parenting and legal contexts

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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How do you know if someone you love is thinking about suicide, and what do you actually say if they are? For Suicide Awareness Month, Mandi welcomes back returning guest Diane Andre Acuna, a speaker and burnout prevention specialist trained in suicide intervention for a conversation most people are afraid to have.

Diane breaks down the real warning signs (hint: it's not what you think), the exact language to use instead of "commit suicide," how to ask someone directly if they're thinking about it (even a child), and when to call 988 versus 911. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or just someone who wants to be a safe person for the people in your life, this episode gives you the words and the confidence to have this conversation before it's too late.

RESOURCES

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call or text 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor; can connect you to local resources and a safety plan.
  
  
• LivingWorks - The suicide prevention training with programs: safeTALK teaches how to recognize signs and do a warm handoff to help / ASIST (applied suicide intervention skills training) trains people to directly ask about suicide and intervene

Connect with Diane Andre Acuna:

• WEBSITE: DianneAndree.com - Free download on how to start your day off well; also where to inquire about bringing safeTALK or ASIST training to your organization. 
  
  
• LINKEDIN: Diane Acuna Andree - Weekly "Tuesday Tip" posts for a daily micro-reset.
   
• INSTAGRAM: @Diandree7

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
  
  
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
  
  
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
  
  
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction and guest background

02:13 Personal experiences with mental health and trauma

04:25 Training and resources in suicide prevention

07:12 Signs to look for in teenagers and children

11:14 Recognizing giving away possessions and verbal cues

17:28 How to approach someone showing warning signs

21:26 Handling disclosures and direct questions

26:18 The importance of a safety net and involving others

30:54 Resources, follow-up, and community support

34:40 The aftercare and ongoing support process

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In this follow-up to last week's episode on Complex PTSD vs PTSD, Mandi breaks down what's actually happening in the brain during hypervigilance, and more importantly, what to do about it.

Pulled from a keynote Mandi recently delivered to a mastermind group titled "Leading Beyond Hypervigilance," this episode walks through the neuroscience behind hypervigilance and hustle mode (parts of the brain affected most), three simple nervous system tools you can use anywhere, two breathing techniques, and Mandi's personal self-care menu she encourages listeners to create for themselves. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to lead yourself out of survival mode, this episode gives you real, practical tools, not just another reminder to relax.

RESOURCES

• Calm App - App Mandi uses for grounding sounds like ocean waves and daily calm practices. 
• Previous Episode: Complex PTSD vs. PTSD - Last week's episode explaining the difference between PTSD and complex PTSD.
• Previous Episode: Panic Attack Tools For Relief with Tom - Referenced episode on what happens in the body during a panic attack and what to do about it. 

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

02:07 Understanding Hypervigilance in the Brain

03:14 Trauma and the Brain's Overactive Alarm System

04:14 Fueling Hustle Mode and Its Roots in Trauma

05:20 The Importance of Asking for Help

06:07 Symptoms and Costs of Hypervigilance

07:01 Signs of Hypervigilant Leadership

08:12 Brain Parts Affected by Trauma

09:45 Neuroplasticity and Healing the Brain

12:55 The Nervous System and Its Role in Safety

14:30 Nervous System Tools: Body, Breath, Environment

17:52 Grounding Techniques: Body, Senses, and Environment

18:32 Breath Techniques for Regulation

20:34 Supporting Yourself with Environment and Self-Care

21:00 Small Steps and Self-Compassion

23:36 Building a Self-Care Menu

29:45 Summary and Resources for Further Support

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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What is complex PTSD, and how is it different from PTSD? As a complex PTSD survivor herself, Mandi breaks down the real distinction in this episode, timed around Complex PTSD Awareness Day (September 2nd). 

Mandi shares what invisible struggles actually look like in the workplace, the brain science behind hypervigilance, and her PEACE framework for rebuilding trust in your own intuition. Whether you're managing a team, supporting someone you love, or recognizing pieces of your own story, this one gives you the language and the tools to respond with acknowledgement, compassion, and consistency instead of confusion.

RESOURCES

• The Mend Project - Clarity for people navigating interpersonal and domestic violence.
  
  
  
• Amy Says - A platform helping people navigate relationship harm
  
  
  
• Previous Episode: Neuroplasticity and Healing with Dr. Keean - Neuroplasticity
  
  
  
• Previous Episode: Anxiety and Panic Attacks with Tom - Panic attacks and anxiety 
  
  
  
• Previous Episode: Tracy Mathison, Project Beloved - Soft environments

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

[03:00] PTSD and Complex PTSD Awareness

[03:27] The rip current metaphor for complex PTSD 

[05:10] PTSD vs. complex PTSD 

[07:15] How C-PTSD shapes identity and brain processes differently

[09:42] What this looks like day-to-day at work: top signs

[10:52] Panic attacks, defensiveness, and trauma responses

[12:23] The brain science: amygdala, hypothalamus, fight/flight/freeze/fawn 

[13:23] Hypervigilance and the restaurant choking story 

[14:19] Three foundations: acknowledgement, compassion, consistency 

[15:32] Resources: The Mend Project and Amy Says 

[16:20] Why affirmations backfire, and adding curiosity to affirmations

[16:50] The PEACE framework for trusting intuition 

[19:03] Language for checking in on someone 

[20:03] Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) 

[22:33] Softer physical environments, supportive phrases, consistency

[25:00] Great news: brains do heal!

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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I can't tell you how many people disclose past assaults to me once they hear what I do for a living. EVERY SINGLE TIME it was someone they knew. In this episode, Mandi breaks down the "red zone," the stretch from move-in day through Thanksgiving break when first-year college students are statistically most likely to experience sexual assault, including the stat that 73% of victims know their attacker.

If you have a kid heading off to college, this one's for you. Mandi shares her PEACE framework for trusting your intuition, why boundaries and people-pleasing matter more than "stranger danger," and 22 practical tips for staying safer this fall (for college students or anyone really!).

RESOURCES

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) - The nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization; created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline. rainn.org 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Previous Episodes: Project Beloved episode with Molly Jane's mother and Boundaries For Kids With Sydney and Lacye

PEACE Framework - Mandi's framework for trusting your intuition, taught in her workshops. Take the quiz to see how well you are trusting your intuition

In-Person Safety Workshop in San Diego on September 15, 2026

CONNECT WITH MANDI

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS
[01:00] Last week's episode about Molly Jane’s murder and legacy with Project Beloved
[03:00] The red zone explained; three key stats from RAINN
[05:30] Why boundaries and people-pleasing matter more than "stranger danger"
[07:30] What age to start these conversations
[09:00] Mandi’s in person workshop September 15, 2026
[10:30] Two sources of harm: strangers vs. acquaintances
[11:30] 22 Safety Tips Every College Freshman Needs to Know
[32:00] Recap and join the email list to get each week’s episode

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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What if the room a survivor is asked to sit in after a sexual assault could make the difference between being believed and being dismissed? 

Mandi sits down with Tracy Matheson, founder of Project Beloved, to talk about the soft interview rooms her nonprofit builds inside police departments across the country and why trauma-informed environments change outcomes for survivors and investigations alike.

Tracy shares the story behind Project Beloved's founding and its two core programs: the soft interview rooms that make reporting less traumatic, and the Beloved Bundles that help survivors walk out of hospitals with dignity after a forensic exam. It's a conversation about grief, advocacy, and what real systemic change can look like.

RESOURCES

Connect with Tracy Matheson:

• Website: ProjectBeloved.org
• Instagram and Facebook
• LinkedIn: Tracy Matheson 

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

[03:00] What a soft interview room is and why it matters

[08:00] The elements that make a room trauma-informed

[13:00] Tracy shares her daughter, Molly Jane's story

[17:30] Why Project Beloved waits for law enforcement agencies to come to them

[22:00] How Tracy's soft interview room idea is confirmed by forensic psychologist

[25:00] How the nonprofit is funded and how they support survivors

[29:00] The Beloved Bundle: clothing and hygiene kits for survivors at hospital or PD

[34:00] Megan Guttrum's became the next victim and failures that let the perpetrator escalate

[37:00] Follow Project Beloved 2.0 to see the interview rooms, bundles and see how to support

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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What if the best time to prevent abuse and assault isn't high school, but preschool? Lacey and Sydney from the Arkansas Coalition Against Sexual Assault join the show to talk about the Butterfly Effect Program, a curriculum built for kids as young as three that teaches boundaries, consent (using kid-friendly language like "permission"), emotional regulation, and how to identify a safe adult, not just a trusted one.

This episode breaks down how early prevention education actually works in the classroom, why the word "no" isn't mean, and how parents and teachers can bring these same lessons home through an eight-book series designed for any family, anywhere.

RESOURCES

• Butterfly Effect Program Website - The book series discussed in this episode, teaching prevention skills to children ages 3 to 8.
• Butterfly Effect Program YouTube Channel with songs
• Facebook: Arkansas Coalition Against Sexual Assault 

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

[04:00] Why prevention education needs to start in preschool 

[07:30] The eight lessons: empathy, boundaries, rejection, and permission 

[11:00] The Hulk smash story: teaching kids that "no" isn't mean 

[15:00] People-pleasing conditioning and how it connects to victimization 

[18:00] Getting parents and teachers involved through take-home newsletters 

[22:00] Safe adult vs. trusted adult 

[25:00] Secrets versus surprises and the somatic connection 

[28:00] The Butterfly Effect book series for homeschool families and beyond 

[32:00] YouTube channel, the Boundary Bubble Song, and where to find their resources and social media

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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What happens when you say no and someone doesn't like it? Psychotherapist and "Queen of Boundaries" Dana Skaggs joins Mandi to break down why boundary setting feels so scary, especially for survivors and recovering people pleasers, and what to actually do about it.

Dana shares the fear behind every boundary (rejection, abandonment), a simple yard analogy for knowing what's yours to control, and real scripts for dealing with coworkers, partners, teenagers, and boundary busters who won't take no for an answer.

RESOURCES

• Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend - the book Dana calls the seminal text on boundaries, and one Mandi credits with helping her own healing
• Dana's prior podcast conversation with Mandi - How To Trust Your Intuition After Trauma 

CONNECT with Dana Skaggs:

• Website: DanaSkaggs.com
• Free Boundaries Quiz: DanaSkaggs.com/quiz
• Therapy (Tennessee only): DanaSkaggsTherapy.com
• LinkedIn: Dana Skaggs

CONNECT with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00] Introduction and welcoming Dana Skaggs

 [03:00] Dana's background and becoming the "Queen of Boundaries"

 [06:00] The fear behind setting boundaries: rejection and abandonment

 [10:00] The yard analogy: what's yours to control

 [15:00] Real example: a college student setting a boundary with friends

 [20:00] Being specific, consistent, and why we "train" people how to treat us

 [25:00] Handling pushback: grudge holders and passive aggression

 [30:00] Boundaries in relationships: the dishes example

 [35:00] The boomerang concept: don't let resentment build

 [40:00] Starting the conversation: the Columbo method

 [45:00] Boundary busters and consequences

 [50:00] Where to find Dana and closing thoughts

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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Is resilience something you're born with, or something you build? Kelly Edmondson, has spent 25 years as a nurse watching patients face unthinkable trauma, and then lived it herself after losing her son. In this episode, she breaks down what actually makes someone resilient, and why it starts smaller than you think.

RESOURCES

The Timely Presence - Kelly's company sending curated memorial gifts on meaningful dates throughout the year.

Connect with Kelly Edmondson:

• Website: TheTimelyPresence.com
• Instagram (business): @thetimelypresence
• LinkedIn: Kelly Edmondson

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: AwareAndPrepared.life
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz: AwareAndPrepared.life/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00] Introduction to Kelly Edmondson

[06:30] Watching patients rally through trauma as a nurse

[11:00] Is resilience innate or something you build

[14:30] Baby steps: starting with a minute, a trip to the mailbox

[17:30] Reframing grief rituals as a resilience practice

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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What if resilience isn't something you're born with, but something you can actually build, one small habit at a time? In this episode, Mandi shares what she learned from trauma specialist Ruby Jo Walker, LCSW, at the Conference on Crimes Against Women, breaking down the neurobiology of trauma, the three nervous system "zones," and why willpower is NOT the real foundation of resilience.

You'll learn simple, doable ways to track your nervous system state, counter your brain's negativity bias, and start recovering faster after being knocked off balance, all through the lens of trauma informed neurobiology and everyday mindfulness.

RESOURCES

• WEBSITE: Southwest Trauma Training - Ruby Jo Walker's trauma training organization
• INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK: @swtraumatraining
• BOOK: Applied Polyvagal Theory for Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth by Ruby Jo Walker
• DOWNLOAD: Calming the Nervous System - Free Guide
• PODCAST EPISODE: Helen (certified life coach) on bringing more joy into your life. Listen and see show notes HERE.
• PODCAST EPISODE: Catherine, therapist and somatic experiencing expert. Listen and see show notes HERE.

Connect with Mandi:

• Website: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com
• Take the Free Intuition Quiz: WomenAwareAndPrepared.com/Quiz
• Instagram: @WomenAwareAndPrepared
• LinkedIn: Mandi Pratt

TIMESTAMPS

[01:30] Meet Ruby Jo Walker and Southwest Trauma Training

[02:00] Defining resilience: two thirds is learned 

[03:00] Regulation vs. resilience explained 

[04:00] The three zones: green, yellow, red 

[06:30] Trauma as a disorder of not being present 

[08:00] What mindfulness actually means 

[10:30] Secondary trauma and who it affects 

[11:00] Building resilience through small, repeated change 

[12:00] Tracking your state: green, yellow, or red 

[13:30] What charges you vs. what depletes you 

[15:00] Negativity bias and how to counter it 

[17:00] Self-compassion as medicine 

[18:30] Ruby Jo Walker's book and where to find her 

[19:30] Wrap up and how to reach Mandi 

The primary purpose of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute advice or services. Please use common sense for your own situation.

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