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Michelle Faye, a domestic violence survivor and candidate for the Australian House of Representatives, shares her powerful story of surviving 17 years of abuse and transforming that experience into advocacy for systemic change. She speaks candidly about her journey from being trapped in coercive control to becoming a passionate advocate for other survivors.

• Experiencing gradual escalation from subtle controlling behaviors to life-threatening violence
• Facing post-separation abuse including surveillance, stalking, and threats
• Encountering repeated failures from police and support services meant to protect survivors
• Dealing with the impact of trauma responses years after escaping the relationship
• Launching "The System" campaign to highlight survivors' stories and advocate for meaningful change
• Reclaiming personal identity and overcoming fears that were instilled through years of conditioning
• Transforming lived experience into political action by running for Parliament
• Championing the value of lived experience leadership alongside academic knowledge

If you've been impacted by domestic violence, please reach out to support services in your area. Remember that your story matters, and you are not alone in your journey.

Welcome to Conversations with My Sisters' Keepers, the podcast where we bring awareness, share stories, and promote healing-centered conversations for lived experience professionals and allies in the gender-based violence and recovery sectors.

I'm Shamin Brown, and together, we’ll explore strategies, resources, and insights to support wellness, recovery, and leadership. Join us as we challenge stigma, celebrate autonomy, and normalize the healing journey.

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The episode emphasizes the transformative journey of survivor leaders and the importance of adopting a healing-centered approach. Dr. Lauren Casey shares her experiences, advocating for community support, the empowerment of survivor voices, and the ongoing nature of recovery.

• Discussion of the need for a healing-centered focus in recovery
• Insights on identity, self-worth, and personal experiences in the sex industry
• The therapeutic role of relationships in recovery journeys
• Value of community and shared lived experiences among survivors
• Importance of organizations providing inclusive support for survivor leadership
• Encouragement for survivors to persist and embrace their healing processes
• Practical advice for organizations to actively listen and support survivor voices

Welcome to Conversations with My Sisters' Keepers, the podcast where we bring awareness, share stories, and promote healing-centered conversations for lived experience professionals and allies in the gender-based violence and recovery sectors.

I'm Shamin Brown, and together, we’ll explore strategies, resources, and insights to support wellness, recovery, and leadership. Join us as we challenge stigma, celebrate autonomy, and normalize the healing journey.

Support the show

Send us a text

Can self-worth exist beyond productivity? Join us for an intimate conversation with Dina Unger, the executive CEO and co-founder of Even For, who bravely shares her journey through recovery and self-care. Dina opens up about the profound challenges survivors encounter when seeking support and how essential genuine listening is for their healing. Emphasizing the therapeutic power of activities like diamond art and the foundational role of having a support system, she paints a vivid picture of how accessible mental health care and being seen as an overcomer are pivotal in the recovery process.

Our discussion takes a closer look at the nuances of self-care and wellness, particularly for survivors grappling with the belief that their worth is tied to how productive they are. From balancing emotional and physical health to navigating conditions like hypokalemia, Dina's candid reflections offer valuable insights into recognizing personal limits and practicing self-compassion. The episode underscores the importance of supportive relationships and faith, encouraging listeners to adopt healthier coping mechanisms and embrace self-acceptance.

We also explore the intersection of professional roles and personal trauma, shining a light on the significant impact of allyship in survivor advocacy. Dina shares real-life experiences that reveal the deep connections made during vulnerable moments and the importance of not underestimating survivors' strength. Celebrating the efforts of organizations like the Salvation Army and the Canadian G100 anti-human trafficking initiative, this episode champions the power of collaboration and the critical role of active listening in empowering survivor leadership. Join us for an empowering discussion on the importance of humility, genuine support, and the incredible strength found in unity.

Welcome to Conversations with My Sisters' Keepers, the podcast where we bring awareness, share stories, and promote healing-centered conversations for lived experience professionals and allies in the gender-based violence and recovery sectors.

I'm Shamin Brown, and together, we’ll explore strategies, resources, and insights to support wellness, recovery, and leadership. Join us as we challenge stigma, celebrate autonomy, and normalize the healing journey.

Support the show