The Cocoon: A Safe Place for Victims and Survivors of Sexual Trauma

What does healing really feel like after trauma? For Denise, it wasn’t soft or peaceful. It felt like necrosis, like something inside her was dying slowly while the outside world thought she was fine.In Part One of this honest, vulnerable chat, Denise and I talk about what happens after the trauma. The messy, quiet part no one really prepares you for. We talk about the nervous system, the shame, and how hard it is to trust your own body again when it’s been through hell.Some of the things we get into:🦋 Why trauma doesn’t end when the moment is over🧠 How your body can still feel unsafe even when you’re safe now💔 What healing actually looks like — especially when it’s not pretty🗣️ And what happens when you finally say the things you’ve never said out loudIf you’ve ever felt like you’re falling apart while “getting better,” this one’s for you.Denise's Linktree: www.deniseelysa.com/link-treeTBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBlueButterflyInstitute/videos(watch for video footage of podcast recording which includes uncut and behind the scenes footage!)Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak with Mao, founder of Mistakes Are Overrated, about how journalling became a powerful tool in her trauma healing journey. We talk about Mao’s long-standing love for reflective writing, how consistent journalling helped her process trauma, regulate her nervous system, and rebuild self trust, and how that deeply personal practice inspired her to create her own self impact journalling book.This conversation explores journalling for mental health, healing through writing, self reflection, and how putting your inner world on the page can support trauma recovery and personal growth.🌱 Learn more about Mao’s workhttps://mistakesareoverrated.com/📓 Explore Mao’s self impact journalling bookhttps://mistakesareoverrated.com/TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBlueButterflyInstitute/videosIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with licensed massage therapist and journalist Dr. Dominique Carson to explore how intentional touch can become a powerful tool in healing sexual trauma.We go beyond the table by diving into the emotional, psychological, and somatic layers of massage therapy. Dr. Carson shares how trauma can live in the body long after words run out, and how a safe, informed practitioner can help clients reconnect with their bodies, reclaim pleasure, and begin to truly heal.This is a conversation about consent, nervous system regulation, and what it really means to feel safe in your skin again.Whether you’re healing, holding space for others, or simply curious — this episode might change how you think about touch forever.Dominique's Linktree: TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the place you go for help… has another agenda?In this gripping episode, I sit down with U.S. clinic escort and reproductive rights advocate Cait Morrigan to expose the lesser-known side of abortion access — where “support” is used to coerce, and choice becomes a carefully guided illusion.From crisis pregnancy centres in Australia that push people toward parenthood, to the emotional manipulation tactics used under the guise of care, this episode unpacks the quiet war being waged against bodily autonomy — in both the States and here at home.We talk activism, emotional abuse in reproductive healthcare, and what real support should actually look like in 2025.🎙️ If you’ve ever wondered why reproductive rights still need defending — or how even “safe” clinics can pressure vulnerable people — this one’s for you.Listen now. Share widely. This conversation could change someone’s path.Cait's Linktree:TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this grounded and informative episode, trauma-informed therapists Amanda and Carol who are co-founders of the Stress & Trauma Clinic in Mittagong explore the core principles of EMDR, attachment repair, and somatic healing. With decades of experience supporting survivors of complex PTSD, early childhood trauma, and nervous system dysregulation, they offer deep insights into how therapy can truly meet people where they are.Perfect for anyone seeking clarity about trauma recovery, EMDR, or the importance of safety and trust in the healing process.Stress and Trauma Clinic Website: https://stressandtraumaclinic.com.au/TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Counsellor Kendra King (LPC, NCC) joins us to unpack the impact of porn and sex addiction on couples from broken trust to rebuilding intimacy. With years of experience guiding partners through infidelity recovery, Kendra shares practical steps for healing, communicating, and reconnecting after betrayal. A must-listen for anyone navigating relationship wounds in the digital age.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Criminologist Dr Kathryn Whiteley returns to continue her powerful exploration of prison reform, rehabilitation, and the lived experiences of incarcerated women.In Part Two of this special episode, Dr Whiteley dives deeper into the long-term impacts of incarceration — both on the women she’s worked with and on herself. From navigating grief and vicarious trauma to witnessing moments of profound change, Kathryn shares what she's learned about listening without judgement and the transformative potential of human connection inside the justice system.This conversation challenges stigma, re frames justice, and reminds us of the power of empathy in spaces where it’s often forgotten.If this series has moved you, please share it or leave a review — it helps us reach more people and keep these stories going.Kathryn's Podcast: Self- Identities 'Conversations With Convicted Women'TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Australian Criminologist Dr Kathryn Whiteley shares powerful insights into prison reform, the realities of women’s prisons, and the emotional work of humanising incarcerated women in the U.S.In our first-ever two-part episode, Dr Whiteley takes us inside the walls of prison to reveal how her work with some of society’s most condemned — and most forgotten — women began.From her first encounters behind bars to the emotional weight of seeing the person beyond the crime, Kathryn explores what it means to truly listen and advocate for change in a system that often silences.If this episode resonates, please share it or leave a review on Apple Podcasts — it helps us reach more people and keep these stories going.Kathryn's Podcast: Self- Identities 'Conversations With Convicted Women'TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Cocoon, Ruby is joined by Hamish Whelan from ACON — a passionate advocate working within emergency response to create safer, more inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ communities. Together, they explore what it means to feel safe to serve and safe to be, even in systems that weren’t built with queer people in mind. This conversation is about quiet resistance, systemic change, and the radical act of showing up as your whole self. For anyone who’s ever felt unseen in uniform, or unsafe in their truth — this one’s for you.Link to ACON website is below for all information regarding their support and programs.https://www.acon.org.au/TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Disclaimer: This episode contains content that could be distressing to our listeners. Listener discretion is advised.Accessing help for abuse shouldn't depend on your postcode but for many in rural areas, it does.In this episode, social worker and family violence advocate Evie Clayton joins me to discuss the challenges of supporting survivors in isolated communities, the urgent need for better counselling resources for kids and teens, and why we must push for faster rape kit results. It's a tough conversation, but one we need to have.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warning: This episode does contain themes and discussion of institutional harassment and violence, listener discretion is advised.In this episode of The Cocoon Podcast, host Ruby Mikolaitis from the Blue Butterfly Institute sits down with Nicole Bedera, a sociologist and leading researcher on sexual violence. As the podcast’s first American guest speaker, Nicole shares groundbreaking insights from her book, On the Wrong Side: How Universities Protect Perpetrators and Betray Survivors of Sexual Violence.The conversation uncovers how university policies and practices often harm survivors while shielding perpetrators, based on Nicole’s yearlong study with survivors, perpetrators, and campus administrators. Together, they discuss the cultural and institutional shifts needed to create safer, more equitable environments for students.This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about dismantling systemic injustice and supporting survivors of sexual violence.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Facebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkNicole Bedera Website: https://www.nicolebedera.comIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Cocoon, we sit down with Stacey Copas, a resilience expert who turned a devastating accident into a powerful mission to help others overcome adversity. Stacey shares her incredible journey of becoming quadriplegic at 12, the mindset shifts that shaped her success, and how we can all build resilience to face life’s challenges.This is an episode about triumph, strength, and finding opportunity in even the toughest moments. Don’t miss Stacey’s inspiring perspective on thriving beyond setbacks.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Stacey Copas: Academy Of ResilienceIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Cocoon, we welcome Jackie Durnin, a seasoned EFT practitioner and counselor with over 15 years of experience transforming lives. After overcoming her own trauma and challenges, Jackie created a groundbreaking healing retreat that combines traditional therapies with cutting-edge neuro-technology to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and PTSD.Join us as Jackie shares her journey of resilience, insights into emotional healing, and the innovative tools she uses to guide others toward lasting transformation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking hope and practical strategies for recovery.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Hinterland Health Retreat: https://hinterlandhealthretreat.comIntro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special edition episode for the month of October with a heartfelt but inspiring journey of resilience and survival. In this episode, Rach Mack, founder of the Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation, opens up about her journey as a survivor of domestic violence and the ongoing struggles she faces. From the traumatic effects of strangulation to her recent diagnosis of stage four metastatic cancer, Rach shares her powerful story with unflinching honesty. She discusses her organization's groundbreaking work in supporting survivors, the urgent need for medical intervention for strangulation victims, and her mission to enact meaningful change through advocacy. Tune in for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation that highlights the strength of the human spirit and the importance of community support in the fight against domestic violence.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Broken Crayons Still Colour Foundation: https://brokencrayonsstillcolour.org/Rach's GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/940c2d37Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Caroline Brunne opens up about her journey of healing as a survivor of child sexual abuse and incest. With raw honesty, she reveals how peer support and community played a pivotal role in her recovery, especially while navigating the complexities of her migrant background. Caroline shares powerful insights on setting boundaries, advocating for oneself, and respecting personal autonomy amidst cultural pressures. She also talks about the challenges of sharing her story through a memoir, blending personal experiences with research to offer solace to others. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, the strength found in community, and the courage to embrace your own healing journey.TBBI Links/Enquiries:Caroline's Website: https://carolinebrunne.com/Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this eye-opening episode, host Ruby Mikolaitis sits down with Jackie McMillan, Senior Project Officer of 'It Left No Marks', to explore the growing trend of erotic strangulation. Why do people engage in this risky practice, and why are younger audiences increasingly drawn to it?Together, they dive into the dangers, the psychology behind it, and most importantly, how to ensure safe practices with clear boundaries and consent. Don't miss this candid conversation about a rising, yet often misunderstood, sexual behavior.Article Links:'It Left No Marks' Sexual Choking Campaign'More than half of Australian young people are using strangulation during sex'- Heather Douglas (The Conversation)TBBI Links/Enquiries:Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auWebsite: thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732Interested in being a guest speaker on the podcast? We are currently on the look-out for people to share their story so if interested:Email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Real Talk on Trauma: What No One Prepares You For" dives deep into the often-overlooked aspects of healing from sexual trauma.Join Ruby and founder of TBBI Tina Meyer as they pull back the curtain on the raw, unfiltered truths of recovery—the emotional hurdles, the unexpected struggles, and the silent battles that aren’t always part of the conversation.This episode is for anyone navigating their own healing journey or seeking to understand the realities that come with it.Enquiries/Contacts:Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auPodcast email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Ruby Mikolaitis from The Blue Butterfly Institute as she interviews Paris, the voice behind 'Shits Fucked' podcast.Discover Paris's incredible journey from meth addiction to advocacy, breaking the stigma around substance abuse.Listen in as they discuss systemic flaws, share life toolkits, and reveal how Paris is using her platform to inspire real change.This episode is a must-hear for anyone looking for hope, resilience, and a fresh perspective on recovery.Enquiries/Contacts:Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auPodcast email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us in the latest episode of The Cocoon as we sit down with Sarah Williams, the visionary creator of the 'What Were You Wearing' organization.Sarah delves into her mission to transform policies and perspectives around victim-blaming. Discover the powerful stories and ground-breaking initiatives that are reshaping the conversation on victim advocacy and justice.Don’t miss this inspiring discussion on creating a world where every voice is heard and respected.Enquiries/Contacts:WWYW Instagram: @whatwereyouwearing_Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auPodcast email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.org.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis:100RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining us in this captivating episode, we're joined by Ally Hijazi, a dynamic lawyer, compelling speaker, and passionate advocate for family rights.Ally fearlessly shares her journey from childhood trauma to self-acceptance, sprinkling humour and candour along the way. Through highs and lows, she reveals the pivotal moments that shaped her resilience and authenticity.Get ready for an inspiring ride as Ally's story reminds us of the power of embracing our true selves and rewriting our narratives.Enquiries/Contacts:Intro/Outro Theme: Breaking The Silence by Marya StarkFacebook: The Blue Butterfly InstituteWebsite: The Blue Butterfly InstituteEmail: hello@thebluebutterflyinstitute.com.auPodcast email: podcast@thebluebutterflyinstitute.com.auIf in need of help during an immediate crisis :1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.