Discover
Teal Talk
Teal Talk
Author: Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence
Subscribed: 0Played: 0Subscribe
Share
© 2026 Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence
Description
Dive into our podcast discussing intersectional issues affecting sexual assault survivors in Ohio, and learn from community experts in the field. Teal Talk is an official podcast of the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence. To learn more, visit www.oaesv.org. If you need help, please feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
40 Episodes
Reverse
Many survivors turn to faith or spirituality first after experiencing trauma, but those spaces can be both sources of comfort and harm.In this episode of Teal Talk, we’re joined by Brenda Glass, Founder and CEO of the Brenda Multi-Purpose Trauma Center, to explore survivor-centered spiritual care. Brenda shares how belief systems shape healing, how trauma can disrupt spiritual connection, and what it looks like to support survivors without imposing faith or reinforcing shame.This conversation is especially relevant for advocates working alongside survivors who are navigating spirituality, belief, and meaning after sexual violence, and for anyone interested in holistic, trauma-informed healing.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by the Rape Crisis Trust Fund, administered by the Ohio Attorney General's Office. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Ohio Attorney General's Office.
In this New Year’s episode, we sit down with Meg and Rachel, two OAESV team members who just completed their first year with the coalition. Together, we reflect on their transition from local programs to statewide advocacy, the moments that shaped their first year, and the wins, lessons, and challenges of 2025. We also look ahead to 2026: from new initiatives and big projects to hopes for the movement and the continued work of supporting rape crisis centers and advocates across Ohio, this is a warm, honest conversation to start the year with connection, reflection, and optimism.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
As we head into colder months and a busy holiday season, many advocates tell us the same thing: even when there’s time to relax, actually relaxing feels impossible. In this episode, we’re joined by Hope and Cassandra of Abide Yoga, two yoga and mindfulness instructors. Together, we talk about why our bodies stay alert, how rest can look different for each of us, and simple grounding practices that meet you where you are. This conversation offers realistic, accessible support for anyone navigating trauma work and needing a moment to breathe.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
What does nonprofit sustainability really mean in the world of sexual violence advocacy? In this episode, we talk with Nikki, OAESV’s former Funding & Grants Manager, about the challenges of sustaining prevention and advocacy work, how to build trust with funders, and creative strategies for long-term support. She shares insights on donor relationships, trends in fundraising, and why investing in people—not just programs—is essential to sustaining services for survivors.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Stories can inspire change, but when shared unethically, they can also cause harm. In this episode, Elliott Fullenkamp, OAESV’s Manager of Training and Technical Assistance, talks about what ethical storytelling means in survivor advocacy. We explore consent, survivor readiness, and how to share stories in ways that honor and empower survivors.Read Elliott's blog: Ethical Storytelling for Education, Awareness, & Outreach. Contact Elliott at efullenamp@oaesv.org.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
What happens when a former rape crisis volunteer becomes a state lawmaker? In this episode, Representative Michele Grim shares her journey from answering hotline calls as a teenager to shaping laws in the Ohio Statehouse. She discusses the challenges and opportunities of passing meaningful legislation on sexual violence, the role survivor stories play in influencing policy, and why stigma and silence remain barriers to justice.Hosted by Laurie Hamame and Emily Gemar, this conversation highlights the power of advocacy inside and outside the legislature. Learn more about OAESV's public policy work and survivor-led initiatives. Find your lawmaker here.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Join us for a rich, powerful conversation that highlights the complexity of legal advocacy for survivors of human trafficking. In this episode, we speak with Emily Dunlap, Managing Attorney at Advocating Opportunity, about the complexities of expungement, immigration protections, and the systemic barriers survivors face even after escaping exploitation. She challenges myths about trafficking—including who is affected and how it happens—and shares how a trauma-informed, client-led approach creates space for long-term healing and justice.From courtroom obstacles to housing insecurity, Emily reminds us that escaping a situation is not the end of the story, it’s just the beginning.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
We can't stop reminiscing about what a success our 2025 Voices of Change Conference was! Between opening statements, to workshop sessions, toindividual community groups, voices were encouraged to come together now morethan ever and rise up. On day 3, we had a panel discussion with survivors about their healing journeys. This episode is a recording of that panel discussion with members of OAESV’s Survivor Empowerment & Advisory Council, moderated by OAESV's Nicole KC. Save the date for our 2026 Annual Conference on June23-25th, 2026. See you next year!Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
What if our data systems reflected the realities and needs of survivors—not just funders? In this episode, we talk with UBUNTU, our partners in Ohio’s statewide data transformation project. Together, we explore the challenges of fragmented data collection, the need for standardization, and what it takes to build a system that centers survivors, supports advocates, and drives change.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
What does advocacy look like when it's not tied to one community, but an entire state? In this episode, we’re joined by Shelby Lieber, our Survivor Coordinator, for an inside look at what it means to do advocacy across an entire state. Together, we explore the key differences between local and statewide advocacy, the importance of staying connected to on-the-ground work, and the unique challenges that come with influencing systems. Shelby shares what led her to this role and what keeps her grounded amidst the scale of statewide work. Whether you’re new to advocacy or have years of experience, this episode offers powerful insight into how change happens across levels—and what the future of survivor-centered advocacy could look like in Ohio.You can reach Shelby at slieber@oaesv.orgFollow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Kick off Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a conversation about survivor-led advocacy and community engagement. Hosts Laurie Hamame and Taylr Ucker-Lauderman are joined by JaQue Galloway, a dedicated advocate working in rural Ohio, who shares insights on the power of survivor voices, creative outreach efforts, and the importance of collaboration in the movement to end sexual violence.Tune in for an inspiring discussion on building stronger, more supportive communities and actionable ways to get involved in SAAM and beyond.Learn more about Tri-County Help Center at www.tricountyhelp.org.To access OAESV's SAAM resources, visit oaesv.org/SAAMtoolkit.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
In today’s episode of Teal Talk, host Laurie Hamame invites you to take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect. As sexual violence advocates, we often carry immense emotional and physical labor. With the weight of the world heavy on our shoulders, this episode offers a space for restoration and affirmation. Take a break from the chaos and join us for a meditation that will ground and center you. You deserve this moment of peace.Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/oliver-massa/gentle-awarenessLicense code: WXIYR3LVRDVOS75W
Calm, pleasure and satisfaction are what most people experience after eating. But for people with eating disorders, food brings anxiety, disturbance and noise. In today's episode, host Laurie Hamame sits down with Sarah Bergen, Regional Medical Director of Ohio for The Emily Program eating disorder recovery center, to explore the intersection of sexual violence and eating disorders. This episode provides a powerful discussion on the complexities of eating disorders, especially how they intersect with sexual violence, PTSD, and trauma. The key takeaway is that EDs are serious mental health conditions that require proper support and treatment—but recovery is possible.
Learn about the National Eating Disorders Association and NEDA Week here. Learn about The Emily Program here. Watch Laura Hill's TED Talk, Eating Disorders from the Inside Out, here.
Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Welcome to 2025! Teal Talk hosts Laurie Hamame and Taylr Ucker-Lauderman are joined by members of OAESV's leadership team to take a deep dive into the highs and lows of their work tackling sexual violence in Ohio, with plenty of real talk, big ideas, and a dash of humor! We open up about the challenges of fighting such a massive issue while juggling self-care and avoiding burnout. But it’s not all heavy – we're also celebrating exciting projects ahead, like new funding for housing programs, updates to legal resources, and training law enforcement on trauma-informed care. If you’re ready to feel inspired and get a behind-the-scenes look at the awesome work being done to create change, this episode is for you!
Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv and on Twitter @OhioAllianceESV. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
In this episode of Teal Talk, hosts Laurie Hamame and Taylr Ucker-Lauderman welcome back Natasha Larson, the Director of Training and Member Engagement, to discuss the intricacies of coalition membership within the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence. We discuss the various membership tiers and the unique roles each plays in the collective effort to end sexual violence. Our conversation delves into our biannual program visits, the implementation of core standards, and how these measures ensure survivors receive consistent, high-quality care. Whether you’re a service provider, community advocate, or simply interested in making a difference, this episode will inspire you with actionable insights and resources.Resources Mentioned:Core Standards: oaesv.org/core-standardsMap of Rape Crisis Centers: oaesv.org/mapFollow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv and on Twitter @OhioAllianceESV. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office
In this special episode of Teal Talk, hosts Laurie and Taylr take a break from interviews to have a heartfelt discussion on navigating election season as advocates for survivors. They explore how the political climate impacts survivors’ experiences and mental health, offering tips on self-care and resources for those feeling overwhelmed by the season's intensity. Join them for a compassionate chat on balancing civic engagement with personal well-being, along with insights into Ohio's election deadlines and voting options.
Be sure to tune in for a mix of information, empathy, and practical advice—this episode is here to support you, no matter your level of engagement this election season!
Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv and on Twitter @OhioAllianceESV. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
This publication is funded by a generous grant from the George Gund Foundation, a private Ohio non-profit philanthropy that has donated $722 million dollars since 1952 to projects that advance human welfare and society.
In today’s episode, we’ll explore some important
developments in supporting our rape crisis advocates. With funding from the Attorney General’s office, OAESV was able to provide 104 advocates the opportunity to attend statewide and national conferences. As Ohio's training and technical assistance provider, we understand that ongoing training is essential for advocates! It not only fosters innovation and best practices but also helps
build networks and improve community responses.
Join Ryan Hensley of Project Women, Jenice Tate of the Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio, and Nancy Hashman of Sanctuary Night as we discuss the impact of these experiences on survivors and the communities they serve.
Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv and on Twitter @OhioAllianceESV. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
In this episode of Teal Talk, host Laurie Hamame dives into the world of self-care and collective care with two special guests, Natasha Larson and Tecca Thompson. Join us as we chat about the recent OAESV self-care retreat, the importance of taking time to recharge, and how embracing collective care can transform both personal and professional lives. Whether you're an advocate in the anti-violence movement or just someone looking for inspiration on how to practice self-care in a meaningful way, this episode has something for you. Tune in for an authentic, heartfelt conversation about caring for ourselves and our communities.
Interested in our next self-care retreat? Become a member today!
Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv and on Twitter @OhioAllianceESV. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
This publication was supported by Rape Crisis Funding awarded by the Ohio Governor’s office, administered by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Governor or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
In part two of our conversation about the docuseries Quiet on Set, we are joined by OAESV Manager of Sexual Violence Prevention & Public Health Initiatives, Sarah Ferrato. In this episode, we dive even deeper into the issues we raised in part one, and explore the role of this documentary through a prevention lens. We discuss the complexities of the perfect victim myth; practical steps for challenging harmful beliefs and behaviors; navigating accountability and addressing harm, expanding prevention education beyond consent; and more. Let us know what you think!
Follow OAESV on Facebook and Instagram @oaesv and on Twitter @OhioAllianceESV. Sign up for our mailing list, or read a transcript of this episode. And remember, we’re here to help. Feel free to call our resource line at 888.886.8388 during regular business hours, or the Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline 24/7 at 844.644.6435.
This project was supported by Grant No. 15JOVW-22-GG-00917-MUMU awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice, to the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Justice.
What do gender role stereotypes, sex education, consent, and bears have to do with one another? In this Be The One Youth Ambassador Takeover, Essie Cornett and Willow Shannon explore the importance of primary prevention education, consent, and bystander intervention to address the increase in rape culture attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors Gen Z is facing.
This episode was edited by Essie Cornett! To learn more about OAESV’s youth-led prevention campaign, follow Be The One on Instagram at @betheoneohio.
This project was supported by funding from the Bloomberg American Health Initiative at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.




