Human trafficking happens closer to home than most people realize—often through those we trust most. Angela Williams shares her powerful testimony of surviving commercial sexual exploitation in Houston, from her first exposure at age 12 to her miraculous extraction eight years ago. Now an advocate working directly with law enforcement and at-risk youth, Angela offers raw insights into the realities of trafficking, the grooming process, and the hope that sustained her through her darkest moments.

In this episode, we discuss the myths surrounding trafficking, the challenges survivors face when seeking help, and what communities can do to combat this crisis. Angela's story reveals how faith, determination, and the right resources can transform lives and break the chains of exploitation.

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Did you know that the average age of exposure to pornography is just nine years old? Join us as we dive deep into one of the most critical conversations facing families and faith communities today. Micah sits down with Phuong, Associate Director at Demand Disruption, to discuss how churches and parents can protect children from exploitation and break the cycle that fuels human trafficking demand.

In this episode, Phuong shares her expertise on targeting the demand side of trafficking through education, prevention, and community empowerment. Learn practical tools for starting age-appropriate conversations with children, creating safe spaces for families to address these complex topics, and understanding the dangerous landscape kids face online today.

About Our Guest: Phuong Marquez is the Associate Director at Demand Disruption, one of the few organizations dedicated to addressing the demand side of human trafficking. She works to enhance church partnerships and implement educational workshops that empower communities to combat exploitation through prevention and awareness.

Resources Mentioned:

• Demand Disruption: demanddisruption.org
• For general questions: [email protected]
• To reach Phuong directly: [email protected]
• Disruption University learning platform: https://disruptionu.demanddisruption.org/

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What happens when God calls you into a completely new season of ministry after decades of faithful service? In this powerful episode, Micah sits down with Michelle Frank, co-founder of Safe Places for Women and author of "Leading After Loss," to explore the journey of navigating major life and ministry transitions.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How to discern when God is calling you into a new season
• The vital importance of processing change and transition well
• Why walking through difficult seasons with Jesus is essential for healthy leadership
• Practical steps to find mentors and champions in your ministry journey
• How season changes can position you for greater kingdom impact

Whether you're walking through your own season of transition or simply want to build resilience for leadership changes ahead, Michelle's hard-won wisdom will encourage and equip you to lead with hope through any season.

Michelle Frank has been in anti-trafficking ministry for nearly 20 years. She co-founded Safe Places for Women, which grew to serve survivors across multiple states. Now in a new season of ministry, she coaches and consults with ministry leaders nationwide through InPower Partnerships. Her book "Leading After Loss: How to Navigate Grief and Brave New Beginnings" is available on Amazon.

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dennis and Bobbie Mark, founders of Redeemed Ministries and true pioneers in the anti-trafficking movement. After 19 years of dedicated service, they share their journey from strip club outreach to opening one of Texas's first residential homes for sex trafficking survivors. Dennis and Bobbie discuss the evolution of trauma-informed care, the challenges of building programs without precedent, and how their work has influenced law enforcement approaches to supporting victims

Their story reveals the heart behind the statistics and demonstrates how commitment to serving the most vulnerable can create lasting change. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of anti-trafficking work and the power of restoration.

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Every organization working to combat human trafficking dreams of the day their services won't be needed. At Elijah Rising, we've spent 2024 moving closer to that vision through direct action, community support, and faith-based healing. Join hosts David and Micah as they share inspiring stories of transformation from their anti-trafficking work in Houston, including milestone achievements in survivor recovery, program expansion, and community impact. Learn how this frontline organization is planning an even bigger vision for 2025 to help more survivors find lasting freedom.

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In this episode, David and Dawn break down the recent P. Diddy trafficking allegations to explore a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of sex trafficking: coercion. Drawing from their extensive experience in anti-trafficking work, they discuss how traffickers use psychological manipulation, false promises of stardom, and drug-based coercion to exploit victims. Learn why many trafficking victims don't initially identify as such, and how cultural influences and power dynamics play a role in exploitation. This eye-opening conversation challenges common misconceptions about trafficking and provides valuable insights into recognizing the signs of coercion.

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Elijah Rising was founded as a prayer meeting. In this episode we share how prayer was foundational to us becoming who we are today, but also how it has helped us continue in the mission to combat human trafficking.

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After adopting a daughter from China, Tom Broyles' life took a transformative turn from practicing law to pursuing mission work driven by faith and purpose. Discover how his legal expertise and faith uniquely prepared him for this impactful mission, blending professional skills with a heartfelt commitment to service. Listen as Tom shares the emotional and logistical steps they took to establish a safe home for minors, emphasizing the challenges and victories along the way.

The psychological toll of working with trauma victims is a stark theme in this episode, as Tom delves into the concept of vicarious trauma and the importance of self-care. 

From the harrowing realities of sex trafficking in Houston to the cultural shifts encountered upon returning to the U.S., the resilience required for such mission-driven work is evident. 

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Why do so many foster care systems fall short in providing adequate support for vulnerable children and families?

Amber's firsthand experiences highlighted critical gaps within the foster care system, motivating her to establish the Riverside Project.

Riverside Project focuses on collaborative system change and the mobilization of churches and communities to fill gaps in the foster care system.

We also explore the complexities and potential of transitioning to a community-based foster care model. Amber emphasizes the benefits and challenges of fostering regional ownership and community collaboration.

Whether through volunteering, praying, or responding to local needs, everyone has something valuable to offer.

Learn more at https://riversideproject.org/ and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share.

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Teen trafficking is closer to home than you think, and it's happening in our schools. Join us as we unravel the shocking story of a Klein ISD teacher allegedly leading a network exploiting runaway teens for prostitution.  We break down the disturbing timeline revealing the tactics traffickers use to manipulate vulnerable youth. From street names to social media grooming, learn the red flags that can save lives.

Our discussion highlights the critical role of education and awareness in fighting human trafficking, urging schools and communities to stay vigilant. Tune in to understand how you can make a difference and protect at-risk youth.

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