We’re excited to share the latest episode of the Centering the Survivor Series podcast featuring Anne DePrince, a Distinguished University Professor, trauma expert, and author of Every 90 Seconds: Our Common Cause Ending Violence Against Women.

Anne brings a wealth of knowledge from her decades of research into trauma and intimate violence, as well as her work with community partners and students to create meaningful change. In this episode, Anne shares powerful insights about the societal myths surrounding sexual violence, the profound impact of trauma, and the importance of fostering joy and community resilience in the face of systemic challenges.

Tune in to learn about:

• The “Perfect Victim” myth and its harmful impact on survivors.

• How communities can take action to address campus sexual violence.

• Practical advice for survivors seeking to navigate trauma and find support.

This episode is a compelling and enlightening discussion that sheds light on the complexities of trauma and the collective steps we can take to drive cultural change.

This episode features an insightful conversation with Cari S. Simon, one of the nation’s leading Title IX attorneys and a champion for survivors of sexual violence.

Cari’s extensive career, from her groundbreaking litigation to her work advising state and federal gender violence policies, highlights the critical intersections of legal advocacy and systemic change. In this episode, she shares her experiences representing survivors, her perspective on the evolving landscape of Title IX, and her vision for creating safer, more equitable educational spaces.

Tune in to hear about:

The challenges and triumphs of holding institutions accountable under Title IX.

Key differences between Title IX proceedings and criminal justice processes.

Practical advice for students navigating the complexities of reporting sexual violence.

This conversation is both inspiring and empowering, offering a deeper understanding of the work being done to support survivors and drive systemic change.

About Cari Simon:

Cari S. Simon is one of the nation’s leading Title IX attorneys representing survivors of sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, and sexual harassment in university and K–12 settings nationwide. Ms. Simon is a graduate of Harvard Law School, cum laude, and clerked for the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Ms. Simon is credited with the inclusion of stalking and dating violence in the definition of sexual harassment under Title IX, and her impact litigation ensured universities are responsible under Title IX for sexual violence at fraternity houses.

Ms. Simon represents scores of survivors on college campuses and in K-12. She effectively represents survivors in campus disciplinary proceedings, and in obtaining remedies and accommodations to ensure survivors can safely and fully access the benefits of their education.

To hold schools accountable for failing to uphold survivors’ rights, Ms. Simon represents survivors in Title IX litigation against universities, and her efforts have launched multiple federal investigations into colleges and schools.

Widely regarded as a Gender Violence Policy Expert, Ms. Simon directed the United States Congressional Victims’ Rights Caucus, advised gender-based violence legislative efforts in numerous states, and was appointed to the Sexual Misconduct Advisory Committee by the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and is a lecturer at Harvard Law School.

In this episode of the Centering the Survivor podcast, we sit down with Rebecca Minor, LICSW (she/they), a queer, Jewish clinician, educator, and founder of Prism Therapy Collective. Rebecca shares their expertise in supporting trans and gender nonconforming youth through their journeys of becoming while guiding parents in fostering affirming and inclusive spaces. We explore the intersections of trauma, gender, and sexuality, discuss the power of resilience-oriented care, and learn about Rebecca’s upcoming book, Raising Trans Youth: What to Expect When You Weren’t Expecting This. Whether you’re a survivor, an ally, or simply curious about creating a more affirming world, this episode is filled with valuable insights and practical advice.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about belonging, resilience, and the importance of cultural responsiveness in our shared work.

In this week's episode, we sit down with Tracey E. Vitchers, Executive Director of It's On Us, to explore her journey from a college student confronting harmful gender dynamics to leading a national movement for sexual violence prevention at It's On Us. Tracey shares how her personal experiences shaped her passion for gender equity and advocacy, offering a candid perspective on the evolution of campus culture and the ongoing fight against sexual violence.

From the roots of her activism to her groundbreaking work with organizations like Callisto and It’s On Us, Tracey unpacks the power of prevention, the importance of sustainable organizing, and how joy can be a form of resistance. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful discussion on creating safer, more inclusive communities for everyone.

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Nicole Bedera, sociologist and author of On the Wrong Side, How Universities Protect Perpetrators and Betray Survivors of Sexual Violence, to explore the intricate dynamics of sexual violence, power, and privilege. Nicole shares insights from her groundbreaking research, revealing how cultural narratives shape our understanding of survivors, perpetrators, and justice. Together, we discuss the systemic barriers survivors face, the societal myths that perpetuate harm, and actionable steps to create meaningful change. Whether you're a student, advocate, or simply someone seeking to understand, this episode will challenge and inspire you.

In our first episode of the Centering the Survivor Series podcast, we are joined by Catherine Lhamon, a distinguished civil rights leader and advocate. Catherine shares her journey in being the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the Department of Education.

With a wealth of experience in civil rights litigation and policy, Catherine offers insights on how justice and equity intersect with supporting survivors of violence.

Tune in for an empowering conversation on advocacy, Title IX reform, and creating lasting change.

Welcome to the first episode of Centering the Survivor Series! In this intro, hosts Ciera and Kenyora share their personal journeys and why they’re passionate about creating this space for survivors of sexual violence. Together, they discuss their work in advocacy, how this podcast aims to amplify survivor voices, and what listeners can expect in future episodes. Whether you’re a survivor, advocate, or ally, this episode sets the stage for candid, insightful, and powerful conversations to come. Join us as we work toward creating a world that centers survivors and their healing.

0:00 - Introduction

0:45 - Ciera's Introduction

1:08 - Kenyora's Introduction

1:45 - Survivor Fund Hub x EROC Collaborations

3:33 - The "Why" Behind the Podcast

4:05 - Kenyora's Answer to "Who Were You at 9"

6:15 - Ciera's Answer to "Who Were You at 9"

6:47 - Ciera's Answer to "Who Were You at 19"

8:37 - Kenyora's Answer to "Who Were You at 19"

13:00 - Ciera Diving Deeper Into the Work at Survivor Fund Hub

15:25 - Kenyora Talking About Journey at EROC

22:55 - Both Co-Hosts Talk About the Legacies They Hope to Leave Behind

26:55 - Both Co-Hosts Talk About What to Expect from Centering the Survivor Series Podcast