Theresa’s courage proves that even after 17 years of silence, a voice can rise stronger than the violence that tried to silence it.

When Teresa heard glass shatter that Saturday morning in March 2007, she had no idea her life was about to change forever. What followed was a horrific sexual assault in her own home—a place that should have been her sanctuary. For eighteen years she has carried this trauma, reliving it each March through recurring nightmares. Despite a thorough police investigation that linked her attacker to multiple assaults across two countries, he was never caught—leaving her without the closure conventional justice might have provided.

Yet Teresa’s resilience defines her story, not the violence. Raised by government investigator parents, she stayed alert during the attack, noticing critical details that helped police, and when the chance came to escape, she took it with courage. Rather than remain in “victim-hood,” Teresa returned to her apartment, faced her fears, and leaned on faith, therapy, supportive friends, her pets and artistic expression to reclaim her voice. Now, by sharing her story, she hopes to reach others still suffering in silence: Feel empowered to go forward, tell your story with God guiding you.”

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, visit:

https://rainn.org for free, confidential support.

National hotline: Available 24 hours. 1-800-656-4673

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Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

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One night on a dark New Orleans street, Ashley was held at gunpoint. But instead of panicking, she did something unexpected—she hugged the mugger. That moment of compassion wasn’t random; it was the result of a life shaped by trauma and healing. Ashley had learned that unhealed pain often repeats across generations, and she was determined to break that cycle—for herself and others.

With a Harvard background in data and AI, Ashley could have chosen a traditional path. Instead, she built Persephone AI—a discreet, encrypted app that helps domestic violence survivors safely document abuse, create escape plans, and stay in control of their stories. It’s a lifeline for those with nowhere else to turn. Now, Ashley is calling on all of us—advocates, technologists, and everyday allies—to stand with survivors and bring real safety into the digital age. Join the movement. Share the message. Be part of the change.

Learn more: https://persephone.ai

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

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Some heroes don't wear capes—they open their garage doors.

Jason's bimonthly poker nights have become a sacred space for military personnel and first responders seeking something deeper than cards: genuine brotherhood.

Behind the camaraderie lies Jason’s own battle—his service in the Coast Guard exposed him to trauma that embedded deep, leading to PTSD, and later, injuries during his time in the Army. Like many who serve, he struggled with vulnerability—finding it harder to ask for help than to face danger. Trained to be strong and self-reliant, he wasn’t prepared for a life where even basic tasks required assistance.

A year into recovery and at the brink of ending his life, Jason made a life-saving call to a friend—an act of courage that sparked a mission. Now CEO of Alpha Ready Company, and Alpha Ready clothing brand, he uses his experience to build community and create safe, stigma-free spaces for healing.

As a Christian, husband, father, and Podcaster, he reminds others that strength isn't in silence, but in connection. His story proves that purpose can rise from pain—and that sometimes, the most powerful battles are fought not in uniform, but around a garage table filled with hurting heroes learning to heal.

Connect with Jason:

Instagram: alpha_ready_com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alphareadyco

Website: https://alphareadyco.com/

Order your Alpha Ready t-shirt today! 🇺🇸
Proudly Donating 25% of Monthly Earnings to
Military, Veteran & First Responder Charities

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Website: https://ineedblue.net/

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