He Was Only 13 When They Shackled Him. What Came Next Was Even Worse.
In this jaw-dropping episode of Free Like Me, Chris Cook takes us inside the nightmare he lived as a young teen abused by the very system meant to protect him. From being shackled like a criminal at 13 to being groomed and betrayed by a high-ranking sheriff, Chris’s life spiraled into alcoholism, despair, and multiple suicide attempts.

But this is also a story of unimaginable strength. Now sober and using his voice to advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse, Chris reveals how he finally broke free from shame, addiction, and silence. If you've ever felt broken, trapped, or voiceless—this episode will hit home.

💬 “The system failed me. But I fought back—and survived.”

Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed
https://a.co/d/jiVW408

In this new episode, The Free Like Me Podcast welcomes Selena, a survivor of sex trafficking and addiction, who now serves as the Program Director at Hope Rising Arizona. From growing up surrounded by dysfunction in Mesa, Arizona, to entering the adult film industry and facing the horrors of international trafficking, Selena's story is one of unimaginable pain—and powerful recovery.

Selena opens up about her early exposure to trauma, her battles with substance abuse, her forced involvement in sex work, and the pivotal moment that sparked her transformation. Now nearly a decade sober, Selena is helping others walk the same path to healing and redemption.

🎧 If you've ever doubted the human capacity to overcome, this episode is for you.

Inside the Fight Against Clergy Abuse: David Clohessy Speaks Out
On this episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks interviews David Clohessy, a courageous survivor and former national director of SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests). David shares his own traumatic experience of clergy abuse and how it led to decades of advocacy work helping others break the silence. They dive into the deep systemic failures of the Catholic Church, the urgent need for legal reforms, and the personal cost of speaking out. This powerful conversation is a must-watch for those seeking justice, healing, and awareness around clergy abuse and institutional cover-ups.

Check out my website: davidclohessy.com
twitter: @davidgclohessy

How you can help: 
https://www.snapnetwork.org/you_can_make_a_difference

What is SNAP? (60 seconds)
https://www.davidclohessy.com/blog/what-is-the-survivors-network-of-those-abused-by-priests

Lists of predators? (60 seconds)
https://www.davidclohessy.com/blog/how-snap-is-working-to-uncover-abuse-in-the-catholic-church

In this new episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Heather, a law enforcement officer and survivor of severe domestic violence. Heather recounts her terrifying experience at the hands of her abusive ex-husband—from emotional and physical abuse to legal struggles and battles for her children’s safety. Her journey highlights how victims can shift into a survivor mindset and reclaim their power. Heather’s story is raw, emotional, and deeply inspiring—a message of strength, awareness, and healing for anyone facing adversity.

In this episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Sunny, a performer in the adult entertainment industry, to explore the human side behind the headlines. Sunny opens up about her childhood, her reasons for entering the industry, and the personal and financial realities that shape her decisions. She also discusses how she maintains healthy relationships, navigates judgment, and plans for a future beyond the adult world. Her story is honest, eye-opening, and rooted in resilience.

Overcoming Addiction: From Homeless Drug Addict to Successful Entrepreneur | Joe D's Story

In this powerful episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark welcomes Joe D from Connecticut, who shares his incredible journey of redemption and resilience. At 17, Joe was shot four times during a drug deal gone wrong. Despite the trauma and subsequent descent into heavy drug use and homelessness, Joe turned his life around dramatically. After serving in the military and battling addiction, Joe transformed his life to become a successful family man and business owner. This episode delves into Joe's upbringing, the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that spurred change, and the importance of support and self-belief in overcoming adversity. Joe's story is a testament to the power of inner strength and the possibility of turning even the darkest times into a bright, thriving future.

Mark Crawford, Director of SNAP NJ, joins The Free Like Me Podcast to share his shocking personal story of clergy abuse and his journey to becoming a leading voice for survivors. Host Clark Fredericks dives into systemic failures within the Catholic Church, the justice system’s inaction, and the importance of legislative reform. This episode uncovers truths about Seton Hall, Cardinal Tobin, and how survivors are fighting for justice and healing. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, this emotional and eye-opening conversation is a must-watch.

From abuse and addiction to healing and hope — Jan’s journey will leave you speechless. In this gripping episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Jan from Winnipeg, who opens up about growing up in a violent, abusive household, struggling with addiction, and finding redemption after devastating loss. She recounts becoming a corrections officer, finding true love, and ultimately discovering her purpose through pain. If you’ve faced trauma, loss, or addiction — this conversation is for you.

Overcame childhood stutter to become a cop. 

In this new episode of the Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with retired Newton, NJ police officer Ken Teets. From being bullied as a child for his severe stutter to achieving a 25-year career in law enforcement, Ken's story is a true testament to perseverance. He shares how he was inspired by movies like Rocky and The King’s Speech, and how support from mentors and internal strength helped him turn setbacks into success.

Whether you’ve faced speech issues, bullying, or self-doubt, this episode offers hope and real-life strategies for pushing past limitations and proving the world wrong.

Facing the Past: Jody Plauché’s Survival Story | Free Like Me Podcast

In this gripping episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks sits down with Jody Plauché, survivor of one of America’s most shocking abuse and vigilante justice cases. Jody courageously recounts how his trusted karate instructor, Jeff Doucet, manipulated, groomed, and ultimately kidnapped him, taking him across the country. The trauma came to a turning point when Jody’s father, Gary Plauché, publicly shot Doucet at the Baton Rouge airport — a moment caught on national TV and replayed for decades.

Jody opens up about the emotional aftermath, his complex feelings toward his father’s actions, and how he’s used his experience to educate others. He also discusses his book "Why, Gary, Why?" and the importance of open communication to prevent abuse. This episode is a powerful look into trauma, justice, healing, and how one man turned his darkest chapter into purpose.