Uproot Abuse

Rita Smith, an international expert on violence against women and a social justice advocate since 1981 joins Donna to talk about a really big "elephant in the room:” the normalization of violence—from our homes to the highest government offices. We talk about how current political behaviors mirror forms of abuse, including financial, mental, and coercion. Rita emphasizes the urgent need for civility with her call to action, discuss, debate, disagree- stressing that hurting someone is never an option.

The conversation sheds light on the life-threatening realities victims face when trying to leave a domestic violence situation and the devastating fact that only 2% of philanthropy goes toward feeling safe at home. She discusses the history of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the link between childhood trauma and mass shootings, and her belief in second chances (citing her work with the NFL). Finally, she challenges us to hold our government to the same safety standards as the NFL, underscoring that women must feel safe in their homes.

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On this episode we welcome Phoenix broadcast legend Mary Jo West, the city's first primetime anchorwoman starting in 1976. West discusses her history-making career, which began when government mandates opened doors for women in media. Crucially, West reveals the personal tragedy that fueled her journalism: her own mother was a victim of domestic abuse in the 1950s. This experience drove West to produce a groundbreaking series on domestic violence in the 1970s. She highlights how tough it was to cover the issue, recalling a moment when her male co-anchor publicly doubted her statistics on air. West's story is a testament to using a platform to address the "elephants in the room" and break the enduring silence around interpersonal violence.

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In this insightful conversation, we sit down with Suma Hodge, a Regional Clinical Director at MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids in Distress), to address the "elephant in the room" when it comes to raising kids: your own unresolved trauma. Suma explains how our past can directly affect our parenting, and why addressing it is the key to creating a healthier, more supportive home environment. We dive into how generational trauma manifests in everything from domestic violence to school behaviors, and discuss the profound, long-lasting impact of emotional abuse. A must-listen for any parent ready to foster empathy, break the cycle of harm, and support the next generation.

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What happens when the very system meant to protect domestic violence survivors instead adds to their trauma? Shante Saulsberry, a fierce advocate and survivor herself, opens up about the hidden realities of abuse within the shelter system and the systemic barriers that keep women from moving forward. We explore how she turned her own pain into a powerful purpose, creating Janice's Woman's Center to provide a path to healing that puts control and power back into the hands of survivors.

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What happens when the very system meant to protect domestic violence survivors instead adds to their trauma? Shante Saulsberry, a fierce advocate and survivor herself, opens up about the hidden realities of abuse within the shelter system and the systemic barriers that keep women from moving forward. We explore how she turned her own pain into a powerful purpose, creating Janice's Woman's Center to provide a path to healing that puts control and power back into the hands of survivors.

For many, dating is a rite of passage. But what about young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)? In this vital episode, we confront the "elephant in the room" with Katherine Gyolai, founder of findlovesafely.com. We explore the alarming gap in education for this community regarding healthy relationships, consent, and abuse prevention. Learn how her unique matchmaking service is not just about finding a match, but about providing education, building confidence, and empowering a generation to have the safe, healthy relationships they deserve.

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What is the "persistent elephant in the room" when it comes to domestic violence? We explore this with Mark Wynn, a retired detective sergeant, survivor of childhood abuse, and subject matter expert who offers a rare dual perspective on the issue. We unpack the complex reasons why 80% of victims fear reporting, the historical evolution of the justice system since the Violence Against Women Act, and the critical concept of coercive control. Mark shares a powerful blueprint for change, emphasizing offender accountability, community response models, and why the most crucial step in prevention is actively engaging men and boys to build a culture of empathy.

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Join economist Danny Court as he breaks down the numbers behind some of society’s biggest challenges. We often hear about the costs of a problem, but what's the true economic value of preventing it in the first place? In this podcast, we explore the tangible cost of domestic violence, school shootings, and other societal harms, and reveal how shifting resources from treating the symptoms to addressing the root cause can save communities millions. From police response to lost productivity, discover how we can build a compelling case for prevention and change the conversation, one dollar at a time.

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In a raw and unfiltered debate, Donna and former raper and security professional Clarence confront the uncomfortable truths behind violence. They clash over who is truly at fault in situations of harm, from road rage to domestic violence. Clarence shares his personal journey of unlearning toxic masculinity—shaped by a career of NDAs and emotional suppression—and reveals how rigid gender roles can fuel a dangerous cycle of power and control. This episode challenges our core beliefs about victim-blaming, strength, and the mindset that perpetuates violence.

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In this episode, former rapper Clarence Ferguson joins us to discuss the social acceptance and normalization of violence in the music industry. We talk about the evolution of rap lyrics from the 80's to today's hyper-graphic content that blurs the lines between a performer's persona and their reality. We dissect Diddy's abuse of power and control, and the stark reality that victims are often disbelieved and silenced by money, coercion, and non-disclosure agreements.

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