Aware And Prepared

SUMMARY

Learn a few self defense tips and tools I have not heard of before with Dr. Manny Tau, such as avoiding phone distractions, using flashlights at night, and considering self-defense tools like tasers, etc. 

Communities can come together to learn and be able to support individuals facing threats. Let’s get back to family dinners in instilling values, and the need for a cultural shift towards prioritizing collective well-being over individualism.

LESSONS LEARNED

Practical safety tips include avoiding phone distractions, using flashlights instead of phones at night, and considering self-defense tools like tasers.

Depending on the situation, sometimes it’s better to move towards the threat (ex. If grabbed from behind, run backwards or drop like dead weight).

If being followed, if safe to do so, make 4 right hand turns to determine if being followed. If so, get to safety, such as a fire station.

Pay attention to your surroundings! Head up not looking at the phone.

Culture has really deteriorated (and we have entitlement, cognitive laziness, lack of robustness and resilience). 

Communities play a vital role in supporting individuals facing threats, emphasizing collective responsibility for safety.

Family dinners serve as an opportunity to instill values and promote open discussions about safety and well-being.

Cultivating a culture of safety requires a shift towards prioritizing collective well-being over individualism, emphasizing community support and resilience.

Addressing violence as a community involves collaborative approaches, including community watch programs and collective responses to threats.

RESOURCES

"Blink" - book by Malcolm Gladwell

Taser.com

Dr. Manny Tau NoThreat.com

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for a keynote and workshops for your school, conference or retreat to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Find out the top 10 things Mandi does to keep herself safe at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared 

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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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SUMMARY

What are the behaviors indicative of potential danger? Is it smack talk or a credible threat? Listen in with today’s guest, Dr. Manny Tau, as he shares insights on identifying and addressing threats of targeted violence. 

Learn the lessons and resources shared so we can identify a credible threat and have actionable skills on what to do next in order to prevent violence.

LESSONS LEARNED

Cluster of three behaviors in threat assessment for targeted violence: narrowing of focus on a target, wrapping up of malicious behavior, leakage of obsessions via words.

Three areas these behaviors manifest in: threat posturing, preparatory behaviors, rehearsal fantasies.

Threats can be direct ("I'm going to hurt you") or indirect ("You better watch your back").

Indicators of credible threat: increased specificity in targeting, investment of time/resources, rehearsal fantasies/obsessions.

Importance of using specific language when reporting to authorities to garner correct attention.

Suggestions for anonymous reporting: hotlines with local police or FBI.

Reporting options for different settings: school (senior resource officer, assistant principal, counselor), workplace (HR), domestic violence (hotline, shelter).

Utilization of resources like the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals for assistance.

Not seeking help due to fear of retaliation might worsen the situation. The situation is already bad. See something, say something.

Objectives of threat assessments: assess immediacy/severity, develop behavioral profile, identify behavioral trajectories to prevent violence.

RESOURCES

Association of Threat Assessment Professionals ATAPworldwide.org

WeTip.com Hotline for anonymous tips of ANY situation in the U.S. 1-800-78-CRIME

Domestic Violence Hotline:

TheHotline.org / Text “Start” to 88788 / Call 1-800–799-SAFE (7233)

Dr. Manny Tau NoThreat.com

Story and Timeline of Isla Vista Rampage

Victims of Isla Vista Rampage

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for a keynote and workshops for your school, conference or retreat to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Find out the top 10 things Mandi does to keep herself safe at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared 

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

In this episode, the host and guest - Dr. Manny Tau, a seasoned threat assessment expert, discuss the case of Elliot Rodger, an active shooter responsible for a tragic rampage in Isla Vista (USCB area of Santa Barbara). 

Dr. Tau highlights Rodger's entitlement, narcissism, and lack of empathy as contributing factors to his violent actions. 

By examining Rodger's progression through stages of violent ideation and planning, Dr. Tau emphasizes the importance of early intervention and the complexity of identifying at-risk individuals. The episode also explores broader societal trends, such as entitlement and declining resilience, underscoring the need for proactive measures and fostering connections to prevent such tragedies.

LESSONS LEARNED

Understanding Incels: Incels, short for involuntary celibates, are individuals who feel wronged by society, particularly regarding romantic relationships, often blaming alpha males for their own lack of success with women.

The Perils of Fixation: Fixation can escalate into dangerous obsession, with three main types: delusional fixation, obsessive fixation, and extreme overvalued belief fixation.

Elliot Rodger's Case: Elliot Rodger exemplified a combination of delusional fixation and extreme overvalued beliefs, leading him to take violent action as a form of retribution for perceived wrongs.

The Pathway to Violence: Dr. Tao outlined six stages of the pathway to violence, starting from grievances and escalating to the actual attack, highlighting the importance of recognizing warning signs and intervening early.

Types of Aggressors: Aggressors can be affective (visibly upset) or predatory (calm and collected), with Elliot Rodger displaying traits of both as a parasitic aggressor, known for manipulation and toxic behavior.

Societal Factors Contributing to Violence: Factors such as entitlement, cognitive laziness, and declining resilience contribute to a culture conducive to targeted violence, emphasizing the need for fostering connectedness and addressing societal values.

The Importance of Connectedness: Disconnectedness, particularly neglect and isolation during childhood, is a significant risk factor for violence, highlighting the importance of promoting connectedness among individuals and communities as a preventative measure.

RESOURCES

Dr. Manny Tau website

Story and Timeline of Isla Vista Rampage

Victims of Isla Vista Rampage

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Find out the top 10 things Mandi does to keep herself safe at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared 

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

This podcast episode concludes the series in practical ways to stay safer while out and about shopping and running errands.

In this episode, Mandi addresses parking lot safety (getting in and out of your car, loading up groceries, etc.) Listen to the practical tips shared and enjoy a safer life!

LESSONS LEARNED

1 = Be mindful when returning to your car and only open your door if you're by yourself and it's safe to do so.

2 = If feeling unsafe due to suspicious activity, wait a minute or ask a store clerk for help.

3 = Lock your car door immediately upon re-entering and avoid distractions like checking your phone.

4 = Consider using stick-up mirrors in the back of your car for better visibility when loading groceries.

5 = Load your car without distractions and maintain awareness of your surroundings. If feeling unsafe, call 911.

6 = When loading the passenger area of your car, avoid leaning all the way in and keep your foot on the floorboard for leverage.

7 = Use a shopping cart as a buffer when loading items or children into the car.

8 = If you have kids, let them know to alert you if someone approaches while your back is turned to the public.

RESOURCES

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Find out the top 10 things Mandi does to keep herself safe at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared 

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

Self-defense on the road! LIsten and start to feel empowered to lessen your chances of becoming a victim. Covering a range of practical strategies, the discussion emphasizes many simple things one may choose to do to wisely prevent and respond to various scenarios. Improve your safety out and about and feel more safe! Enjoy!

LESSONS LEARNED

Maintain Safe Distance: Leave a two to three-foot space between your car and the one in front to allow for emergencies.

Strategic Positioning: Choose the middle lane at stop lights or stop signs to avoid potential hazards from pedestrians or objects on the sidewalk.

Parking Strategy: Consider parking facing outwards for a quick getaway if necessary, especially in uncertain areas.

Fuel Management: Keep your gas tank at least a quarter full to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.

Emergency Preparedness: Equip your car with essentials like jumper cables, spare tire, tire inflator, and emergency kit for unforeseen situations.

Safety Measures During Accidents: Only exit your vehicle in a public space if you feel safe, take photos if necessary, and drive to a safe location before assessing the situation.

Response to Breakdowns: Stay in your locked car with hazard lights on, consider calling 911 and if someone offers help, only crack your window slightly to communicate.

Personal Safety: Avoid accepting rides from strangers when broken down and, if necessary, hide until help arrives.

RESOURCES

Fix a Flat Product

Previous episode with a 9-1-1 dispatcher Part 1 and Part 2

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Become a VIP to receive a weekly note from Mandi with further help. Enjoy a free gift when signing up at the bottom of her website AwareAndPrepared.Life.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared.

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

This episode discusses a tragic incident of road rage in Southern California in which a six-year-old boy named Aiden was fatally shot while his mother was driving on the freeway. YES, the killer was caught and is serving a long sentence in prison!

Mandi expresses sympathy for the victims and aims to raise awareness about the dangers of road rage. 

She shared strategies for how we might respond if confronted with road rage.

LESSONS LEARNED

One = Try to refrain from getting back at the unsafe driver that cut you off

Two = Drive to a safe place (police or fire station) if somebody is acting radically following you and start honking your horn

Three = Call 9-1-1 when you don't feel safe

Four = Do not get out of your car

RESOURCES

Aiden’s Story in the LA Times and NBC

Previous with a 9-1-1 dispatcher who provided guidance on calling emergency services. Part 1 and Part 2

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Become a VIP to receive a weekly note from Mandi with further help. Enjoy a free gift when signing up at the bottom of her website AwareAndPrepared.Life.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared.

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

Current Crime Trend = theft of purses and wallets at a specific grocery store in California. 

Hear actionable advice to safeguard personal belongings, drawing attention to tactics used by these thieves. How to minimize risks and stay safer while out and about. Enjoy!

LESSONS LEARNED

Lesson 1 = Instead of putting the purse / backpack on a chair next to you, put it in your lap or around your chair leg

Lesson 2 = Clip the bag using child safety belt into your cart or just keep your bag on you

Lesson 3 = Think about getting a purse with a flap and a zipper 

Lesson 4 = Don't get distracted by your phone

Lesson 5 = When walking on the street, carry your purse on shoulder that’s the opposite side of the street

RESOURCES

Current Trend: Thefts At Grocery Store in CA

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Become a VIP to receive a weekly note from Mandi with further help. Enjoy a free gift when signing up at the bottom of her website AwareAndPrepared.Life.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared.

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

In this podcast episode, Mandi announces the rebranding of her podcast to "Aware and Prepared" and shares why. She states the podcast is now one year old and shares statistics on the podcast's listenership. The top 10 episodes from the past year are listed. 

Mandi then introduces three games to improve situational awareness that one can challenge themselves with or do with a friend or family member. 

1. How many exits are in the place you are currently in?

2. Have a scream competition. Who is the loudest?

3. Pick a target to look for and see how many times you see it (ex. how many people in white shirts?)

Make it a competition if you're with friends or family for fun!

RESOURCES


Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Become a VIP to receive a weekly note from Mandi with further help. Enjoy a free gift when signing up at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared.

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

In celebration of International Women's Day, your host shares with you what she would tell her 15 year old self. Listen in and see if some of these things you also would tell younger you! And what else can we impart to our younger generation to help prevent harm and encourage a brighter life filled with peace?


RESOURCES


Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Find out the top 10 things Mandi does to keep herself safe at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared 

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message

SUMMARY

What happens when an unwanted admirer escalates to a stalker? Mandi and guest, Joe, urge listeners to take these situations seriously. They explore the nuances of establishing a red line or boundary and what to do when this person crosses it. 

Insights into legal measures, self-defense tactics, and community support networks are shared to they empower individuals to proactively address and safeguard against these types of threats. Everyone deserves to live in peace and safety. Don’t settle for this type of behavior!

LESSONS LEARNED

Decide on what your red line is going to be. What is your main boundary and what will you do after that is crossed?

Document each incident.

Get help. Don't hesitate to involve friends or neighbors or even authorities.

As threat levels rise, consider legal options. Look up the stalking law in your state.

Consider enrolling in a self-defense class like Krav Maga (real life street fighting) and make sure you like your instructor.

Empower yourself through taking proactive steps to enhance your safety which leads to increased confidence.  

Remember our goal is to escape and not have to fight! 

RESOURCES

To inquire about Joe’s self defense help, contact Mandi. Here is the California stalking law referenced in the episode.


***Don’t forget to review the show (bottom of all episodes) - is it helpful, practical, insightful?***

Book Mandi for your school, conference or workshop to share her real life story, how she healed and practical takeaways to inspire and empower your audience.

Find out the top 10 things Mandi does to keep herself safe at the bottom of her website WomenAwareAndPrepared.com.

You can find Mandi, on Instagram @WomenAwareAndPrepared 

Music by Andrea Hamilton Binley at HopefulPop.com.

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.

Send me a message