Join us as Caroline talks with Harriet Wistrich, solicitor and Founder of the Centre for Women's Justice, about her journey into law and feminism. Harriet shares her thoughts about the systemic failures of the criminal justice system in addressing violence against women, the importance of police accountability, and the legal challenges faced by women in abusive relationships. Discover the vital work of the Justice for Women campaign and learn how myths surrounding domestic violence impact societal perceptions. This episode supports advocacy for women's rights.

In this conversation, Caroline and Sue Penna, author of The Recovery Toolkit, discuss the complex realities of domestic abuse, trauma, and recovery. Sue shares both her personal journey and professional experience, having spent over 20 years in NHS Mental Health Services, to emphasise the importance of trauma-informed care. They explore the need for systemic change to better support survivors and the powerful role language plays in shaping our understanding of trauma and recovery.

The conversation highlights the impact of trauma on mental health, the feminist movement's advocacy for change, and the importance of improved police training to address domestic abuse. Sue also details the fragility of stability in the lives of those affected by abuse and underscores the importance of innovative, supportive approaches.

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In this episode, JoJo Kirtley, founder of Workie Ticket Theatre, shares her journey from a youth worker and teacher to an influential figure in theatre for social change. She discusses working in collaboration with local universities and the challenges faced by women in the family court system, the importance of engaging young people in discussions about misogyny, and her commitment to preserving women's stories through theatre. JoJo emphasises the need for equity in feminism and the importance of honest conversations about gender-based violence. She also reflects on her individual experiences and aspirations for the future, including her exploration in global approaches to better managing gender-based violence through theatre.

Learn more here ⁠Workie Ticket Theatre CIC

In this episode host Caroline Saul sits down with El, co-founder of Let's Talk About X, to explore the essential topics of consent education and LGBTIQA+ inclusion. El shares their journey from high school teachers to advocates, highlighting the need for a cultural shift in how globally we teach young people about sex, consent and inclusivity. They discuss Australia’s move towards affirmative consent laws, the importance of gender-neutral language in education, and the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTIQA+ community. Tune in for an engaging conversation that inspires and encourages change and greater understanding about how to use consent.

In this episode, Caroline engages with Kathleen, a LA Clinical Social Worker and faculty at Stony Brook University teaching trauma courses and has a long standing course on child and adult sexual violence and long term acute and long term sequela.

Together they discuss the issues of strangulation. Kathleen explains that a perpetrator’s remorse does not diminish the gravity of their actions and the seriousness of this crime. Kathleen invites you to read the research of Gail Strach and George McLean, who have established guidelines for investigating strangulation cases.

Furthermore, Kathleen calls attention to the significant need for further research into the neurological effects of strangulation on victims, emphasising the urgency of understanding these impacts for later life, and the development of dementia in victims.

In this episode of Dangerous Liaisons, host Caroline Saul interviews Aoife Gaffney, a renowned money and divorce coach from Ireland, to discuss her inspiring journey and transformative coaching practice. Aoife shares insights on financial independence for women, the importance of setting boundaries around money, and how mindset plays a critical role in overcoming financial struggles. She also discusses NLP, EFT, which can support women through these life transitions. Aoife asks you to support Hopeful Handbags initiative, which donates handbags filled with essentials to women in need, you can fill these bags with anything you feel women fleeing domestic violence and abuse may need - makeup,

In this episode, we have the honour of hearing from Lynn, a survivor who bravely shares her experience of intimate partner abuse, stalking, rape, and reproductive coercion. Lynn opens up about the intense emotional challenges she faced, navigating a relationship defined by control, fear, and incredibly difficult choices about her body and her future. This conversation is raw and honest, touching on the complexities of survival and the resilience it takes to reclaim your life after trauma.

Content Note:

You may find these topics distressing, triggering or emotionally challenging. If you know that you are likely to find this content challenging, then please consider carefully how you might want to engage with it.

In this heart-led episode of Dangerous Liaisons, host Caroline Saul welcomes Rie Pearson, a retired police officer and dedicated advocate for domestic abuse awareness.

Together, they explore the important topics of recognising and addressing domestic violence. Rie shares her experiences from her career in law enforcement and talks about her book where she shares five experiences from women, which helps people understand or recognise red flags in relationships. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by victims of abuse and the crucial role of supporting and believing those who reach out. They also talk about the escalation of violence against women and girls and the importance of better media representation that avoids stereotypes and victim-blaming.

The episode addresses the difficulties of leaving abusive relationships, the significance of emotional resilience and self-care, and Rie’s inspiring WOW Festival vision and to have her ABC program included in school curriculums to educate young people about abuse.

Join us for a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about the need for awareness, education, and support in tackling domestic abuse.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of stranger stalking, sexual violence references, and explicit descriptions of a sex room. Listener discretion is advised.

Ann's advocacy led to the introduction of stalking as a distinct and standalone crime in Scotland and other European countries. She emphasises the importance of victim impact and trauma-informed approaches in addressing stalking.

Ann's work included training law enforcement, raising awareness, and providing support to stalking victims. The conversation explores the different types of stalking and challenges the misconception that stalking is solely related to domestic abuse. It highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of stalking and the importance of separating it from domestic violence. The guests discuss the need for a unified approach to stalking laws and the importance of empowering victims to speak out and seek support. They also address the myths surrounding stalking, including the idea that it only occurs in ex-partner relationships. The conversation concludes with a call to action to create a safer environment for women and to raise awareness about stalking.