In 2018, Judge Rosemarie Aquilina made headlines around the world by doing something radical in a courtroom: She listened. During the sentencing hearing for Larry Nassar—a doctor who sexually abused over 150 women and girls under the guise of medical treatment—she operated her courtroom with a level of sensitivity and sophistication that we rarely see outside of a therapist’s office, giving each survivor the opportunity to speak, validating their pain and allowing their stories to be heard in a system that so often silences them.

In this episode, I sit down with Judge Aquilina to talk about trauma, justice, and what happens when survivors are finally believed. We explore the emotional toll of reporting sexual abuse, the institutional failures that allowed Nassar’s abuse to continue for decades, and how one judge’s empathy became a turning point in the #MeToo movement.

⚠️ Content warning: This episode contains explicit discussions of sexual abuse and trauma, including the crimes committed by Larry Nassar. Please listen with care.

Topics we cover:

• Why so many survivors of sexual assault stay silent.
• How institutions fail to protect victims—and protect abusers instead.
• The power of being believed and heard in a courtroom.
• Judge Aquilina’s unique role in a landmark case—and how she holds space for survivor healing.
• What justice can look like when it centers empathy and accountability.

If you or someone you know is a survivor of sexual violence, support is available. Visit RAINN.org or call 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

Xxoo Darcy

REFERENCES/RESOURCES

www.AlternativesCounseling.com

Darcy’s Hair: TheHairPlayStudio.com

Just Watch Me

Speak Up: Lessons in Trusting Your Instincts

CREDITS

“We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Robyn Jaenchen. 

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