LoveLustLaw

Brittani Ard, host of You Probably Think This Story's About You, joins Jake and Michele for a raw and thoughtful conversation about trauma, relationships, and the emotional weight of storytelling. She opens up about her transition from a career in architecture to podcasting, and the lessons she's learned along the way. The discussion dives into the complexities of dating in midlife—particularly for strong, independent women—touching on breakups, emotional boundaries, and the process of unintentionally emasculating men. Brit also reflects on how independence can sometimes hinder connection, and why taking small, intentional steps back into the dating world can be so valuable.Brittani Ard  – LinksWebsite: https://brittaniard.com/Podcast: “You Probably Think This Story’s About You”Apple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsAmazon MusicInstagram https://www.instagram.com/brittani.ard/Jake Deptula and family law attorney Michele Locke are joined by with Shaun and John from "Sins and Survivors: Las Vegas True Crime," to explore the heartbreaking case of Ashley and Dennis Prince, who were tragically killed by Ashley's ex-father-in-law, Joe Houston, during a deposition.The discussion reflects on Ashley and Dennis's lives, the legal proceedings, and the emotional and legal complexities that culminated in their deaths. They examine the intense divorce proceedings and custody battle, highlighting how Ashley's attempts to escape an abusive relationship were overlooked by a justice system that missed vital warning signs. Michele provides valuable insights into the motivations of those involved, pointing out the instability within the legal framework. The conversation also tackles systemic issues surrounding domestic violence and the emotional strain on families while advocating for greater community awareness and resources for survivors. Shaun and John reveal their mission to enlighten the Las Vegas community by shedding light on these devastating stories. ​​**This episode of contains graphic depictions of murder. Please listen with caution.**linksSins & Survivors: Las Vegas True CrimeApplehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sins-survivors-a-las-vegas-true-crime-podcast/id1712245894Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/1W2swCx9LP38sFY06294pBAmazon Musichttps://music.amazon.com/podcasts/18ce5b73-c8ec-4e38-827d-df4119e845ea/sins-survivors-a-las-vegas-true-crime-podcastInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/sinsandsurvivors/Websitehttp://sinsandsurvivors.comMichele Lockehttps://www.michelelocke.com/https://www.instagram.com/attorneymichelelocke/Additional Links (Topics Discussed)The Vegas Justice League (Cold Cases)https://www.vegasjusticeleague.com/Original Episode Linkhttps://sinspod.co/episode36National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7/365)Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)Text: START to 88788 https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.facebook.com/NationalDomesticViolenceHotlinehttps://www.instagram.com/NDVHofficial/guest + story | submission information If you have a dating or relationship story to share, want to participate in a discussion here on lovelustfear, or have a topic you’d like us to cover, contact us below.E-mail | [email protected] | https://www.instagram.com/lovelustfearpod/submission link | https://lovelustfear.aidaform.com/lovelustfearsubscription linksAmazon Musichttps://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b06d0ea8-cb29-4c3a-98e6-0249d84df748/lovelustfearSpotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0e3ndcf5u8lZ5lhN1lvWecApplehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustfear/id1735876283RSS feedhttps://audioboom.com/channels/5125912.rssWant to hear more? Whatever app you’re listening on, just rate us and/or leave us a comment or review.Thank you for your support! 

What happens when the people and institutions meant to protect us become part of the problem?In this powerful and unsettling episode of lovelustlaw, Attorney Michele Locke sits down with scholar-activist Dr. Caroline Heldman to investigate the disturbing realities behind sexual violence, institutional betrayal, and a culture that too often protects powerful men at the expense of survivors.From the college campus “Red Zone,” where SAs spike during the first weeks of the  academic year, to the calculated manipulation of vulnerable young women through alcohol, coercion, and power imbalances, Heldman exposes the patterns that make sexual violence so difficult to prevent, and even harder to report. Why do so many survivors remain silent? What happens when universities turn sexual assault protections into political battlegrounds? And who benefits when accountability disappears?But the investigation doesn't stop on campus.Locke and Heldman venture into the darker corners of the internet, examining how the manosphere and incel culture prey on insecure boys, normalize misogyny, and turn resentment into an ideology. They explore the disturbing intersections of online exploitation, pornography, trafficking, and platforms that profit from a system where consent and safety can become secondary to money.The conversation takes another unsettling turn as they examine celebrity culture and the music industry's longstanding relationship with power, exploitation, and alleged predatory behavior, including the public reckoning surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs.Drawing on Heldman's personal experience as a survivor and decades of research into gender, power, and sexual violence, this episode challenges the myths that protect perpetrators and the institutions that enable them. They also confront an uncomfortable truth: patriarchy doesn't just endanger women. It teaches boys and men to suppress vulnerability, equate masculinity with dominance, and measure their worth through power.Featured resources: Jackson Katz's TED Talk, The Mask You Live In, and A Call to Men.**DISCLAIMER** The information shared in this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered as professional legal advice or a substitute for seeking professional legal advice. Subscribe Here:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustlaw/id1819843688 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BEWXKOaEo8lfK554a5NqE Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/2789d9c8-b4ab-4b4a-847d-a469d89b1d0b/lovelustlaw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lovelustlaw Want to reach out to me? You can email me at [email protected]. Want to find out what I'm up to? Follow me on socials (linked below).Just remember Michele is spelled with one L and you can thank my mother Margo for that :)LinksMichele Lockehttps://www.michelelocke.com/https://www.instagram.com/attorneymichelelocke/https://www.tiktok.com/@attorneymichelelocke https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-locke/ https://www.youtube.com/@attorney-michelelocke Dr. Caroline Heldmanhttps://www.instagram.com/carolineheldman/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-heldman-b404595/ Jackson Katz TEDx “Violence against women is a men’s issue” https://youtu.be/77vz3r7OmZA?si=nhQudaBAugPY1Ze7 https://www.acalltomen.org/ Jake Deptulawww.instagram.com/jaked3000lovelustfearhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustfear/id1735876283https://open.spotify.com/show/0e3ndcf5u8lZ5lhN1lvWechttps://www.instagram.com/lovelustfearpod/National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7/365)Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)Text: START to 88788 https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.facebook.com/NationalDomesticViolenceHotlinehttps://www.instagram.com/NDVHofficial/

What can we learn from Gabby Petito’s story to help recognize dangerous behaviorin relationships?Michele Locke sits down with Nichole Schmidt, Gabby Petito’s mother, to discuss the devastating impact of losing her daughter – and how her family is turning unimaginable grief into meaningful action.Nichole opens up about the emotional toll of repeatedly sharing Gabby’s story, the importance of setting boundaries while navigating trauma, and the coping tools that help her keep going, including meditation, breathwork, and taking time to step away. She also reflects on co-parenting Gabby with her father and how they have come together through the Gabby Petito Foundation to honor their daughter’s legacy.Michele and Nichole explore the warning signs of abusive relationships, including coercive control, isolation, love bombing, future faking, and the dangerous escalation of abuse. They examine why it can be so difficult to recognize these behaviors from inside a relationship, the reasons asking “why didn’t she leave?” places blame in the wrong place, and why understanding the dynamics of abuse is essential to prevention.Nichole also shares the mission behind the Gabby Petito Foundation, which works to educate young people about healthy relationships and dating violence, train law enforcement officers and 911 dispatchers, advocate for lethality assessment laws, provide scholarships, and support families of missing people whose cases may otherwise receive limited attention. The conversation highlights the urgent need for stronger training, accessible resources, trauma-informed responses, and early education that empowers people to recognize red flags before abuse escalates.This episode is a reminder that domestic violence prevention requires more than recognizing the signs. It requires compassion, informed intervention, meaningful support, and a willingness to listen without judgment. No one should have to navigate abuse alone, and no family should have to fight to have their loved one’s story heard.In this episode, we discuss:— The emotional realities of grief, trauma, and sharing a loved one’s story publicly.— The warning signs of coercive control, love bombing, future faking, and isolation.— Strangulation and other indicators associated with escalating danger in abusive relationships.— Why leaving an abusive relationship can be complicated and why victim-blaming must stop.— Lethality assessments, legislative advocacy, and gaps in domestic violence response systems.— Teaching children and young adults about boundaries, healthy relationships, and personal safety.— The work of the Gabby Petito Foundation and how education can help prevent future tragedies.— Supporting missing-person cases, standing alongside families, and approaching survivors with empathy.Resources and ways to helpIf you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) orthehotline.org.Learn more about the Gabby Petito Foundation, its prevention initiatives, and ways to support its mission atgabbypetitofoundation.org.Listen, learn, and share this episode. Awareness matters, but turning awareness into action can save lives.**DISCLAIMER** The information shared in this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered as professional legal advice or a substitute for seeking professional legal advice. Subscribe Here:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustlaw/id1819843688 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BEWXKOaEo8lfK554a5NqE Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/2789d9c8-b4ab-4b4a-847d-a469d89b1d0b/lovelustlaw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lovelustlaw Want to reach out to me? You can email me at [email protected]. Want to find out what I'm up to? Follow me on socials (linked below).Just remember Michele is spelled with one L and you can thank my mother Margo for that :)LinksMichele Lockehttps://www.michelelocke.com/https://www.instagram.com/attorneymichelelocke/https://www.tiktok.com/@attorneymichelelocke https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-locke/ https://www.youtube.com/@attorney-michelelocke Nichole Schmidt https://gabbypetitofoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/gabbypetitofoundation/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCddyfIwouBjtAD2kgg6_KPg Jake Deptulawww.instagram.com/jaked3000lovelustfearhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustfear/id1735876283https://open.spotify.com/show/0e3ndcf5u8lZ5lhN1lvWechttps://www.instagram.com/lovelustfearpod/National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7/365)Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)Text: START to 88788 https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.facebook.com/NationalDomesticViolenceHotlinehttps://www.instagram.com/NDVHofficial/#gabbypetito #gabbypetitofoundation #domesticviolenceawareness #domesticviolenceprevention #domesticabuse #abusiverelationships #coercivecontrol #relationshipredflags #emotionalabuse #lovebombing #futurefaking #intimatepartnerviolence #survivoradvocacy #victimblaming #traumabonding #datingviolence #healthyrelationships

Behind the glamour of the Playboy Mansion, Crystal Harris describes a life shaped by rigid rules, curfews, financial restrictions, and a struggle to reclaim her independence. In this powerful episode of LoveLustLaw, attorney and host Michele Locke sits down with Crystal for an unflinching conversation about coercive control, the lasting effects of trauma, and the complicated journey toward healing.Crystal reflects on how her childhood experiences and the early loss of her father shaped her vulnerability, why it took years to recognize and name the dynamics she experienced, and how public scrutiny and bullying made it even harder to tell her story. Together, Michele and Crystal examine the contrast between the mansion’s glamorous public image and what Crystal describes as a world where personal freedom could feel painfully out of reach.But Crystal’s story is also one of determination and self-reclamation. She shares how brand deals, DJ work, and real estate investments helped her build financial independence while still at the mansion, ultimately creating a path toward a life of her own. She also opens up about caring for Hugh Hefner during his final years, navigating grief, and facing criticism from people who were not there to experience her reality firsthand.In This Episode, We Discuss:— Coercive control behind closed doors: Curfews, strict rules, financial restrictions, and the loss of personal autonomy at the Playboy Mansion.— Recognizing the signs of abuse: Why it can take years to understand and put a name to controlling relationship dynamics.— The impact of childhood trauma: How early loss, family experiences, and a lack of support can shape vulnerability and relationships.— Life beyond the glamorous image: The disconnect between the mansion’s public reputation and Crystal’s personal experiences.— Bullying, backlash, and public judgment: Navigating criticism from people who were not part of her experience and finding the confidence to speak out.— Reclaiming financial independence: How brand deals, DJ work, and real estate investments helped Crystal build a path toward freedom.— Caretaking, grief, and complicated relationships: Crystal’s experience caring for Hugh Hefner during his decline and the emotions surrounding his final years.— Healing and rediscovering identity: Moving beyond trauma, rebuilding self-trust, and learning to embrace a new chapter in life.— The power of storytelling: Why Crystal wants to share her experiences and create space for others to tell their stories.— Introducing After the Mansion: Crystal’s upcoming podcast featuring former Playmates, staff, and others sharing both the lighter and darker sides of life connected to the Playboy Mansion. Now embracing a new chapter in Hawaii, Crystal is turning her experiences into a platform for honest conversations with her upcoming podcast, After the Mansion. Through stories that span the full spectrum of experiences, she hopes to bring previously unheard perspectives to light and encourage more open conversations about control, trauma, and healing.What happens when the life everyone envies feels like a life you cannot escape? Join Michele Locke and Crystal Harris for a candid discussion about the hidden realities behind the headlines, the courage it takes to reclaim your story, and the possibility of finding peace on the other side of trauma.*Content note: This episode discusses coercive control, emotional abuse, trauma, and grief.**DISCLAIMER** The information shared in this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered as professional legal advice or a substitute for seeking professional legal advice. Subscribe Here:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustlaw/id1819843688 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BEWXKOaEo8lfK554a5NqE Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/2789d9c8-b4ab-4b4a-847d-a469d89b1d0b/lovelustlaw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lovelustlaw Want to reach out to me? You can email me at [email protected]. Want to find out what I'm up to? Follow me on socials (linked below).Just remember Michele is spelled with one L and you can thank my mother Margo for that :)LinksMichele Lockehttps://www.michelelocke.com/https://www.instagram.com/attorneymichelelocke/https://www.tiktok.com/@attorneymichelelocke https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-locke/ https://www.youtube.com/@attorney-michelelocke Crystal Harrishttps://www.instagram.com/crystalmharris/https://www.patreon.com/cw/CrystalHarrisOfficial https://onlysaygoodthings.com/ Jake Deptulawww.instagram.com/jaked3000lovelustfearhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustfear/id1735876283https://open.spotify.com/show/0e3ndcf5u8lZ5lhN1lvWechttps://www.instagram.com/lovelustfearpod/National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7/365)Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)Text: START to 88788 https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.facebook.com/NationalDomesticViolenceHotlinehttps://www.instagram.com/NDVHofficial/#narcissisticabuse #healingfromnarcissisticabuse #narcissistrecovery #narcissismawareness #coercivecontrol #emotionalabuse #gaslightingawareness #traumabondrecovery #lovebombing #toxicrelationshiprecovery #relationshipredflags #survivorstory #abuserecovery #domesticabuseawareness #divorcerecovery #highconflictdivorce #singlemomjourney #womenhealingwomen #healingjourney #traumarecovery #selfworthjourney #selfloveafterabuse #reclaimyourlife #findingyourvoice #boundariesarehealthy #emotionalhealing #womensupportingwomen #mentalhealthhealing #postseparationabuse #nocontactjourney

What does it really take to recognize abuse, reclaim your power, and safely break free?Michele Locke sits down for another conversation with advocate Bill Mitchell, whose devastating loss transformed into a lifelong mission to educate others about dating violence and domestic abuse.Bill shares how his family’s tragedy inspired his work with survivors and his podcast, When Dating Hurts, where survivors tell their stories of abuse, control, survival, and healing. Together, Michele and Bill explore why sharing these stories matters - and how hearing someone else’s experience can help a person recognize that they are not alone.The conversation goes beyond physical violence to examine coercive control, emotional abuse, isolation, manipulation, and the subtle behaviors that can gradually take away a person’s sense of freedom and self-worth.Most importantly, this episode offers practical guidance for anyone who may be experiencing abuse, or supporting someone who is.Michele and Bill discuss why “just leave” is rarely as simple as it sounds, the importance of creating a personalized safety plan, and how domestic violence professionals can help survivors prepare for a safer path forward. They also explore how friends and family can provide meaningful support without judgment, pressure, or shame. Bill Mitchell’s When Dating Hurts podcast and domestic violence support organizations can provide additional education and resources for those seeking help.Inside this episode, you’ll discover: How to recognize the warning signs of coercive control and emotional abuse Why abuse isn't always physical How survivor stories can break isolation and create awareness Why leaving an abusive relationship can be dangerous without proper planning What a personalized safety plan can involve How to support a friend or loved one experiencing abuse Why rebuilding self-worth and community is an essential part of healing **DISCLAIMER** The information shared in this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered as professional legal advice or a substitute for seeking professional legal advice. Subscribe Here:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustlaw/id1819843688 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BEWXKOaEo8lfK554a5NqE Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/2789d9c8-b4ab-4b4a-847d-a469d89b1d0b/lovelustlaw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lovelustlaw Want to reach out to me? You can email me at [email protected]. Want to find out what I'm up to? Follow me on socials (linked below).Just remember Michele is spelled with one L and you can thank my mother Margo for that :)LinksMichele Locke https://www.michelelocke.com/ https://www.instagram.com/attorneymichelelocke/ https://www.tiktok.com/@attorneymichelelocke  https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-locke/  https://www.youtube.com/@attorney-michelelocke  Bill Mitchell https://www.instagram.com/whendatinghurts/  249. Michele Locke - Lawyer, Judge, and DV Survivor https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/249-michele-locke-lawyer-judge-and-dv-survivor/id1542478530?i=1000705380885 261. Michele Locke - Her Return Interview - Lawyer, Judge, Mother and DV Survivor https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/261-michele-locke-her-return-interview-lawyer-judge/id1542478530?i=1000714328237 Jake Deptulawww.instagram.com/jaked3000lovelustfear https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustfear/id1735876283 https://open.spotify.com/show/0e3ndcf5u8lZ5lhN1lvWec https://www.instagram.com/lovelustfearpod/ National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7/365)Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)Text: START to 88788 https://www.thehotline.org/https://www.facebook.com/NationalDomesticViolenceHotlinehttps://www.instagram.com/NDVHofficial/#datingviolence #coercivecontrol #domesticviolence #domesticviolenceawareness #emotionalabuse #relationshipredflags #redflags #abusiverelationships #intimatepartnerviolence #lovebombing #cycleofabuse #toxicrelationships #healthyrelationships #relationshipadvice #datingadvice #digitalstalking #traumabonding #abuseawareness #whendatinghurts #lovelustlaw