The statistics around sexual assault are hard to stomach, but we've all got the power to curb them. In this episode, host Anthony Stefanos is joined by Angie Wan, Gina Martin and Emerson Brophy to explore how sexual violence has become normalised — and what we can do about it.
From locker room talk and rape jokes to disbelief and victim-blaming, they examine how seemingly small moments build a culture where sexual harm is downplayed, denied, or straight-up dismissed. Together, they unpack the “rape culture pyramid” — a concept that explains how normalised disrespect, objectification and entitlement can lay the foundations for more serious harm.
They also tackle common myths: like the idea that sexual assault can't happen in relationships, that false accusations are common, or that men can’t be victims. The group shares personal reflections, hard truths and practical ways to shift the culture — from how we speak to our mates, to how we respond when someone discloses harm, to how we reflect on our own learned behaviours. It’s about being honest, open, and proactive — not perfect.
Whether you’ve been impacted by sexual violence, want to be a better ally, or just feel confused about how to navigate these conversations, this episode offers clarity, insight, and tools for change.
Featuring: Angie Wan (@consentlabs), Gina Martin (@ginamartin), and Emerson Brophy (@emersonbrophy).
Want to go deeper? We've created hundreds of resources to help you get confident with consent, sex and relationships - visit teachusconsent.com
This episode was produced by Teach Us Consent and Not Another and hosted by Anthony Stefanos, supported by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
Content note: This material contains sensitive content and may include references to sexual harassment and assault, homophobia, transphobia, racism and other forms of violence. Please listen with care and compassion for yourself, and feel free to switch off at any point. You can visit teachusconconsent.com/get-support for resources such as 1800RESPECT and 13YARN, or call 000 in emergencies.
In Australia, Mental Health Care Plans are available through GPs and can provide access to subsidised sessions with mental health professionals. Reach out to your GP to discuss your options.
This podcast was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal and Bidegal people. The Teach Us Consent team respects and honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders past and present, and their enduring connection to this land. We acknowledge that First Nations people disproportionately experience sexual violence, and we are committed to ending sexual violence.
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