Breaking the Silence: Magnifying the Voices of Survivors Through Education, Relationships, and Community

In this episode, we explore an often overlooked but critical conversation: the commercial sexual exploitation of boys. Joined by Russell G. Wilson, we discuss why boys are so often left out of the narrative and the unique barriers they may face in being seen, supported, and believed. This conversation highlights what caregivers, providers, and community members should understand about vulnerability, identification, and support for boys impacted by exploitation. We also discuss signs to look for and how we can better respond through prevention, intervention, and healing. Later in the episode, we answer common caregiver questions about the exploitation of boys and what meaningful support can look like.

In this episode, we center the voices of caregivers who are walking alongside youth impacted by commercial sexual exploitation. Joined by Bianca Hill and Shenelle Jackson, we share real questions, reflections, and stories from parents, foster parents, relatives, and guardians navigating this journey every day. These caregiver experiences are honest, complex, and often filled with both love and uncertainty. Together, we respond to common questions about trust, boundaries, safety, and what it means to keep showing up. This conversation reminds us that caregivers are not just supporting youth through crisis - they are also a vital part of the healing process.

In this episode, we explore the trauma responses youth may show when they are operating in survival mode. Joined by Bianca Hill and Alicia Wilson, CSEC Training Associates and Clinical Supervisors at WestCoast Children’s Clinic, we discuss behaviors like shutdowns, blow-ups, lying, running, and irritability through a trauma-informed lens. This conversation helps caregivers understand that these reactions are often adaptations to past harm, not simply defiance or disrespect. We also talk about what caregivers may feel as they navigate their own emotions and responses in these difficult moments. Most importantly, we offer practical tools for interrupting trauma cycles and creating small turning points that move youth toward safety, connection, and healing.

In this foundational episode, we explore what Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children, or CSEC, is and how it happens. Joined by experts Skyler Larkin, Shenelle Jackson, and Bianca Hill, we break down what exploitation can look like, who may be vulnerable, and how traffickers often operate. This conversation is designed to help caregivers, providers, and community members better understand the realities of exploitation and how prevention begins with awareness. Later in the episode, we answer common caregiver questions about trafficking, online safety, and warning signs. We also discuss what to do if you are concerned about a child in your life.

In this episode, we take a moment to introduce the guests featured throughout the podcast series. You’ll learn more about their professional backgrounds, areas of expertise, and the experience they bring to conversations about CSEC, prevention, intervention, caregiving, and healing. Each guest offers a unique perspective that helps deepen our understanding of how commercial sexual exploitation impacts youth, families, and communities. This episode serves as a companion to the series and highlights the voices, knowledge, and lived and professional experience that helped shape these important conversations.