Beyond the Monsters

After growing up in Trenton, New Jersey, Prince broke the cycle and built a life defined by discipline and service; first in the Army, then as a Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer. Ten years into his career, everything changed when a drunk driver hit him, forcing an abrupt medical retirement. While facing the aftermath of the crash, Prince was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD. Instead of breaking, he rebuilt—returning to school, earning multiple degrees, and ultimately completing his doctorate in criminal justice. Today, he uses his lived experience and education to teach the next generation as a college professor, while continuing to speak openly about mental health, resilience, and overcoming trauma. Prince has transformed his pain into purpose advocating for mental health awareness in law enforcement and veteran communities while proving that it’s possible to rise from loss stronger than before. From losing the identity he once clung to, to finding purpose beyond the badge, his story is proof that resilience is possible even when the world falls apart.   Prince’s Socials and Links https://instagram.com/realprinceblue https://x.com/realprinceblue3 https://tiktok.com/@realprinceblue https://www.linkedin.com/in/prince-blue Email: armyprince2020@gmail.com   Real Time with Prince Blue Podcast  https://www.youtube.com/@realprinceblue   Black and Blue Lives Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-and-blue-lives/id1574245761       Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Misti Blu Day shares her powerful story of surviving both childhood trauma and life-threatening health battles. Growing up in a home marked by abuse, alcoholism, and trauma bonds, she learned early on what it meant to live in survival mode. Later in life, she faced congenital heart issues, dangerous arrhythmias, and multiple open-heart surgeries — first in 2011, again seven years later, and most recently just three years ago. She also lives with Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a connective tissue disorder, and Wolff–Parkinson–White Syndrome (WPW), a rare heart condition that causes abnormal rhythms.   Her journey highlights the connection between trauma, chronic illness, and the fight to reclaim life after repeated medical emergencies. From navigating grief and gaslighting to waking up after open-heart surgery with a second chance, Misti’s story is one of raw honesty, resilience, and hope.   This episode dives into themes of childhood abuse, trauma recovery, resilience, congenital heart disease, open-heart surgery, healing after medical trauma, PTSD, abuse survival, and overcoming adversity.   Misti’s Socials and Links https://www.instagram.com/mistibluday https://mistibludream.com/   Books: Botanical Rebellion: Apothecary Guide to Nature's Alchemy https://a.co/d/7kyZwn3   Garden of Blu https://a.co/d/5EUPCAZ   Botanical Rebellion Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/botanical-rebellion/id1802984202     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Paul Hutchinson, executive producer of Sound of Freedom and founder of multiple child-rescue initiatives, exposes the hidden realities of human trafficking and child exploitation. He shares his firsthand experiences from undercover operations, detailing how traffickers target children, the signs families should recognize, and why awareness is the first step in prevention. Hutchinson also addresses the deep impact of trauma and the urgent need for meaningful healing. He discusses the role of psilocybin therapy and his retreat work, explaining how structured psychedelic experiences can help survivors, rescuers, and others carrying unresolved pain achieve breakthroughs in recovery. This conversation reveals both the darkness of trafficking networks and the hope found in innovative healing. Hutchinson’s perspective underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable children while also creating pathways for long-term restoration and resilience.   Paul’s Socials and Website https://liberating-humanity.com https://www.instagram.com/liberating.humanity https://www.youtube.com/@Liberatinghumanity https://www.tiktok.com/@liberating.humanity https://www.facebook.com/liberating.humanity https://x.com/Paulhutchinson   ‘The Sound of Freedom: True Stories that Inspired the Film’ Book (Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble!) https://a.co/d/flncht7   Sound of Freedom movie https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CV3TMD6M/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r   The Liberating Humanity Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4X5cFDS0DlHCe3xhlr8yfB?si=a8fb6aea2c654679 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/liberating-humanity-real-heroes-real-stories-and/id1699211825   Child Liberation Foundation https://childliberation.org https://www.instagram.com/childliberationfoundation https://www.tiktok.com/@childliberationorg https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9lTb0RGJKgR04ALjeYkrXA https://x.com/CLF_Org     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

In part two, Lyndsey continues her courageous domestic violence survivor story, exposing the realities of life after leaving an abusive relationship. She opens up about the trauma responses that follow abuse, the challenges of co-parenting with an abuser, and the emotional impact on her children. Lyndsey shares her experience of navigating the justice system, the cycle of manipulation and intimidation, and the lasting scars of emotional, physical, and psychological abuse. She goes into detail about the trial, revealing the emotional toll of facing her abuser in court and the painful ways the legal system often retraumatized her while she fought for justice and safety.   Through raw honesty, she highlights the hidden battles survivors face—financial struggles, fear of retaliation, and the long journey of trauma healing and abuse recovery. Yet, Lyndsey also shows the power of resilience, rebuilding her identity, creating a safe home for her children, and reclaiming her voice. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to survive domestic violence and the hope that healing and freedom are possible.   Lyndsey’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/lyndseyh6723 https://www.instagram.com/living.inthe.aftermath   The Refuge Utah https://www.instagram.com/therefugeutah https://therefugeutah.org     National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/   Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center https://dvsacenter.org   U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program   Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc. https://www.findhelp.org https://www.domesticshelters.org     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Lyndsey shares her powerful story as a survivor of domestic violence, opening up about the early signs of manipulation, control, and emotional abuse that slowly escalated into physical violence. She reflects on the devastating impact on her children, the painful cycle of leaving and returning, and the emotional toll of the justice system that often failed to protect her. Lyndsey recounts how the last and most severe instances of abuse occurred during COVID, when isolation and fear made escaping even harder. Through raw honesty, she exposes the hidden realities of abusive relationships, the courage it takes to recognize red flags, and the strength required to finally break free. This conversation highlights the complexities of family dynamics, legal battles, and recovery, while showing the power of resilience and the importance of strong support systems. Lyndsey’s journey is one of survival, healing, and reclaiming her voice—and her story offers hope to anyone fighting to escape abuse.   Lyndsey’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/lyndseyh6723 https://www.instagram.com/living.inthe.aftermath   The Refuge Utah https://www.instagram.com/therefugeutah https://therefugeutah.org     National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/   Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center https://dvsacenter.org   U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program   Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc. https://www.findhelp.org https://www.domesticshelters.org     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Marie Pizano is an author, filmmaker, producer, and passionate advocate for domestic violence survivors and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) awareness. As the founder of MVP3 Entertainment Group, she’s brought compelling stories to life—from serving as executive producer on the multi-award-winning documentary Momo: The Sam Giancana Story, to producing the feature film Shattered. In her memoir From Barefoot to Stilettos: It’s Not for Sissies, she reflects on her journey out of a high‑conflict divorce and emotional abuse toward healing, resilience, and purposeful storytelling. Through her media work—spanning film and community events—Marie highlights how authenticity, the arts, and community can empower individuals to transform adversity into their own “yes.”   Marie’s Socials and Links https://www.instagram.com/mariemvp https://frombarefoottostilettos.com   From Barefoot to Stilettos, It's Not For Sissies by Marie Pizano https://a.co/d/5gwnwbQ   12 Steps To Finding Your Yes by Marie Pizano https://a.co/d/8F8afhu   MVP3 https://mvp3foundation.org https://mvp3network.com/     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Mariah Heller exposes what really happened to her when she was offered a deal with a major record label. She shares how the label took control of her image, silenced her voice, and used her past trauma as part of their branding—without her consent. Pressured to change her name, aesthetic, and personal narrative, she was told to lose weight and put on a strict diet under a label-assigned nutritionist. She opens up about being silenced, manipulated, and nearly branded as a product of her pain. This is a raw look into music industry exploitation, mental health abuse, body image pressure, identity erasure, and the dangerous price of chasing a dream when the industry cares more about marketable trauma than authentic artistry.   Mariah’s Music and Business Socials: Music https://www.instagram.com/riahmusic Linktr.ee/riahmusic1991   Business https://www.instagram.com/pain_free_fitness www.painfree-fitness.com     SAMHSA National Helpline  1-800-662-HELP (4357)   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Danielle shares what it was like to live in an abusive marriage while silently battling depression, alcoholism, and the pressures of motherhood. During the Covid pandemic, she was raising her children, working from home, and struggling from alcoholism. In this episode, we talk about the emotional toll of high-functioning addiction, domestic violence, and what it means to live in survival mode for so long that it starts to feel normal. Danielle opens up about the moment she knew she had to leave, the guilt that followed, and the process of starting over—for herself and for her kids.   SAMHSA National Helpline  1-800-662-HELP (4357) The National Domestic Violence Hotline  800-799-SAFE or Text “START” to 88788   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

At just 29 years old, Adriana Sansam lost her husband to a fentanyl overdose—leaving her to raise their three young children alone. she shares the reality of falling in love, building a family, and discovering her partner’s hidden struggle with heroin addiction. Adriana opens up about navigating sudden widowhood and the challenges of grief while raising kids. She also talks about battling postpartum depression and lifelong depression—silent struggles that shaped her journey long before and after loss. This powerful conversation explores the intersection of addiction, mental health, motherhood, and grief—and what it takes to keep going when everything falls apart.   Adriana’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/adrianasansam https://www.facebook.com/p/Adriana-Sansam-100086399725563/ https://www.tiktok.com/@adriana.sansam   Just for Today Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@justfortodaypodcast https://www.instagram.com/justfortodaypodcast https://linktr.ee/justfortodaypodcast   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)   Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

In Part 2, Charles opens up about his powerful journey through addiction, incarceration, and personal transformation. He reflects on the emotional toll of navigating the legal system, the impact on his family, and the hard lessons learned from jail time and courtrooms. Through faith, service work, and creative healing—like tattoos—he began to rebuild his identity and repair broken relationships. This conversation dives deep into trauma, recovery, and the evolution of addiction, highlighting the dangers of modern substance use, the importance of connection, and what it means to choose healing over survival.   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Dr. Robb Kelly had it all—a music career, talent, success—until alcoholism took everything and left him living on the streets. In this raw conversation, he shares how addiction shattered his life and family, and the spiritual awakening that led him to recovery and a powerful reunion with his children. Now a leading voice in addiction science, Dr. Kelly breaks down why traditional treatment models fail, the neuroscience of alcoholism, and how self-talk, nutrition, and neuroplasticity can rewire the brain for healing. He offers a new paradigm—one rooted in connection, family, and practical steps for daily change. If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, loved someone who has, or questioned what real recovery looks like, this episode will shift your perspective.   Robb Kelly’s Website https://robbkelly.com   Robb’s Social Media https://www.instagram.com/addiction_doctor/   Robb’s Book - Daddy, Daddy Please Stop Drinking https://a.co/d/gQ7MdPi   Contact: General Questions JANET@ROBBKELLY.COM Office Phones 210-620-3555 214-649-5427 Schedule a call https://robbkelly.com/schedule/   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Charles opens up about a life shaped by childhood trauma, addiction, mental health struggles, and the fight for identity. From a violent upbringing and a devastating car crash to the spiral into substance abuse, he shares the turning points that led him to seek help. This raw conversation covers the emotional weight of PTSD, broken family dynamics, infidelity, and the impact of addiction on fatherhood and marriage. With unfiltered honesty, Charles reveals how he rebuilt his life—finding hope, support, and a new path through recovery.   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Sheri shares her story of being groomed and trafficked by her boyfriend’s father at the age of 15. She details her journey from a shy teenager to a victim of manipulation and abuse due to human trafficking. The importance of awareness and education to prevent such tragedies is emphasized, illustrating how grooming can happen to any child, regardless of their background. Sheri’s story highlights the psychological impact of trafficking, the struggle for survival, and the long road to recovery after escaping her traffickers. Her resilience and determination to share her story serve as a beacon of hope for others who may be suffering in silence.   Sheri and Pearl at the Mailbox’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/pearlatthemailbox https://www.facebook.com/pearlatthemailbox https://x.com/at_mailbox15370 https://www.pearlatthemailbox.com   Sheri’s Books: Pearl at the Mailbox https://a.co/d/6iEnHZ4 Smart, Safe, and Strong https://a.co/d/4jWY8Jg   National Grooming Prevention Hotline https://www.ngph.org 623-688-3214   Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Vittorio "Wyatt" Gray's journey is one of surviving the unimaginable—kidnapping, rape, childhood abuse, and homelessness—while discovering his identity as a transgender man. He opens up about the emotional weight of growing up in an abusive family that struggled to accept him, the mental health toll of constant rejection, and the isolation of navigating gender identity in a world that often misunderstands. As he built a new life in the entertainment industry, Wyatt found strength in community, resilience through storytelling, and healing in embracing his truth. His voice now serves as a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals who face similar battles, reminding us of the deep need for compassion, support, and visibility.   Vittorio’s Socials and Website www.VittorioWyattGray.com  https://www.instagram.com/voiceactorvittorio/   Vittorio’s Book https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22Vittorio%20Wyatt%20Gray%22?Ntk=P_key_Contributor_List&Ns=P_Sales_Rank&Ntx=mode+matchall   Resources   Trans Lifeline https://translifeline.org/ 877-565-8860   The LGBT National Hotline 888-843-4564   Crisis Text Line Text START to 741-741   Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Grace Ann’s story isn’t just about surviving addiction or doing time—it’s about what happens when the system spits you out, and life still expects you to show up. In this episode, she opens up about catching federal RICO charges, navigating probation, and the reality of incarceration as a young mother. She talks about losing her son, finding her way back through grief, and how that pain pushed her to fight for sobriety. Grace also shares what it's like working behind the scenes in the music world with country rap artist Struggle Jennings, and how their friendship became a lifeline. This episode is a raw look at consequences, comeback stories, and the grit it takes to rebuild when the odds are stacked against you.   Grace Ann’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/graceann_angelsandoutlaws https://www.tiktok.com/@graceannangelsandoutlaws https://www.facebook.com/GraceAnnAngelsandOutlaws   Struggle Jennings https://www.instagram.com/iamstruggle https://linktr.ee/IAMSTRUGGLE     SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Kira Wahlstrom shares her journey of trauma, survival, and the pursuit of justice after being brutally raped. She recounts the emotional turmoil faced by her and her family, the challenges of navigating the legal system, and the impact it had on her mental health. Kira discusses the civil trial that followed the criminal trial (the biggest premises liability case in Massachusetts history), the difficulties of testifying, and the eventual victory that set legal precedent. She emphasizes the importance of healing, the ongoing struggle with PTSD, and her commitment to raising awareness through a film about her story. Kira's resilience shines through as she advocates for others and reflects on her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. She speaks on the mental health struggles she faced, the coping mechanisms she employed, and the importance of advocacy and support. Through her story, she highlights the complexities of trauma, the need for understanding, and the resilience required to heal and move forward.   Kira’s socials https://www.instagram.com/mynameiskiraw https://www.facebook.com/mynameiskiraw     Boston Herald Articles https://www.bostonherald.com/2010/03/14/for-this-survivor-remaining-silent-was-not-an-option/ https://www.bostonherald.com/2010/03/15/vocal-rape-victim-is-a-beacon-of-hope-to-others/     Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   National Sexual Assault Hotline RAINN 800-656-4673 https://rainn.org/consulting-services/Crisis-Support   Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Roanna shares her harrowing journey of growing up in a deeply dysfunctional family within the cult-like religious group known as The Order of the Lamb. She opens up about the trauma she endured as a child—severe punishment, emotional control, and fear-based obedience—and how it shaped her mental health and sense of self. Her story weaves through early play therapy with dolls, the isolating experience of being raised in a predominantly Mormon community, and the internal conflict between genuine spirituality and the oppressive structure of organized religion. As she began to heal, repressed memories resurfaced, leading her to confront PTSD, complex triggers, and the legacy of abuse she was determined not to pass on to her own children. Roanna credits her therapist and osteopath with helping her navigate the most difficult parts of her healing. She speaks powerfully about the importance of emotional awareness, the role of shame, and the courage it takes to face the truth. Through grief, growth, and education, Roanna is not only breaking generational cycles—she’s building a life rooted in truth, freedom, and purpose.   Roanna’s socials https://www.instagram.com/thegfculinaryschool/ https://www.instagram.com/roannacanete/ https://thegfculinaryschool.com/   Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Sarah Benedict shares her deeply personal and harrowing journey involving her late husband, Andrew, and the tragic murder of his first wife, Rachelle. She recounts the early years of their relationship, the challenges of young parenthood, and the shocking events that unfolded in their small town in Texas. As the story unravels, Sarah reflects on the devastating impact of Rachelle’s murder and the investigation that followed, touching on themes of trauma, justice, and the lasting scars of unresolved emotional pain. The episode explores the complex dynamics of small-town life, the ripple effects of violent loss, and the emotional toll of navigating mental health struggles within a relationship. Sarah speaks candidly about the weight of supporting a loved one in crisis, the heartbreaking moment of Andrew’s suicide, and her journey through grief, searching for meaning and closure. She highlights the vital role of town support, the power of truth in healing, and the transformative strength that can emerge from tragedy. Sarah also discusses the importance of addressing men’s mental health, breaking the silence around suicide, and supporting children and families through loss.   Project Unbroken www.projectunbroken.org   Forensic Files' episode covering Rachelle's case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muPm136yF5I   Mental Health/S.A Resources: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Carissa shares how her spark for life was reignited after meeting and working closely with powerhouse entrepreneur Jessie Lee Ward, who was navigating a Stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis. As Jessie’s personal assistant, Carissa found herself transformed—not just by the challenges they faced together, but by Jessie’s relentless spirit, drive, and vulnerability. In this powerful episode, Carissa opens up about overcoming chronic depression and anxiety, the deep impact of friendship, and how loss became a catalyst for purpose. She reflects on the importance of emotional honesty with her daughter, rebuilding after separation, and the courage it takes to be authentic while starting a new chapter.   Carissa’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/carissalovesu/ https://www.youtube.com/@carissalovesu   Jessie Lee’s https://www.instagram.com/imbosslee/ https://www.youtube.com/@Imbosslee https://www.tiktok.com/@imbosslee?lang=en   Mental Health/S.A Resources: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Amie Ichikawa shares her remarkable transformation from incarceration to becoming the founder of the Woman II Woman organization. She opens up about her experiences behind bars, the emotional and psychological toll of prison life, and the difficult transition back into society. Through her story, Amie sheds light on the harsh realities faced by incarcerated women, the silent battles with PTSD, and the urgent need for mental health support. She also dives into the complex and often overlooked impact of gender self-ID laws on the safety and well-being of women in prison. Her insights reveal the systemic neglect, lack of proper healthcare, and legislative apathy that continue to endanger vulnerable populations within the justice system. Amie’s advocacy focuses on the need for reform, empathy, and accountability. She challenges the status quo, amplifies the voices of incarcerated women, and calls for stronger support systems and protections. *Trigger Warning: Discussion of SA and other explicit content *We support the trans community and respect their right to safety, identity, and inclusion! This discussion of concern is not directed at trans individuals, but at violent offenders who are abusing gender self-ID laws to cause harm.    Amie’s Socials https://www.instagram.com/ichix310  https://x.com/ichinita310 https://www.facebook.com/amie.ichikawa   Woman II Woman Organization https://www.womaniiwoman.org  https://www.facebook.com/WomaniiWomaninc  https://x.com/womaniiwomaninc  https://www.instagram.com/womaniiwomaninc    Amie’s Articles of Support California rape case https://www.foxnews.com/us/third-strike-trans-rape-suspect-prompts-rebellion-against-ca-law-after-attack-womens-prison   https://abc7chicago.com/post/pronoun-use-center-rape-case-involving-former-chowchilla-central-california-womens-facility-prisoner-tremaine-carroll/15696730/   Wisconsin https://www.npr.org/2023/06/01/1179301244/minnesota-settlement-lawsuit-transgender-inmate-christina-lusk-prison   New York https://www.nbcnewyork.com/investigations/man-posing-as-transgender-woman-raped-female-prisoner-at-rikers-lawsuit-says/5067904/   https://nypost.com/2022/04/09/trans-serial-killer-harvey-marcelins-first-prison-interview/   New Jersey https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/nj-trans-prisoner-impregnated-2-inmates-transferred-mens-facility-rcna38947   Canada https://torontosun.com/news/national/hunter-whos-pushing-violent-trans-sex-killer-on-female-prisons   https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11818117/Canadas-trans-male-female-prisoners-killers-sex-criminals-alarming-study-shows.html   Baby case https://torontosun.com/news/national/hunter-trans-dangerous-offender-raped-baby-wants-temporary-passes   Washington https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/former-female-inmate-files-lawsuit-claiming-sex-assaults-inmate-who-identified-woman/6VNDA4Y3TJENPBU2N3UFTJ6YE4/   Mental Health/S.A Resources: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988   National Sexual Assault Hotline RAINN 800-656-4673   Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org   SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use) 1-800-662-HELP (4357)     Beyond the Monsters Socials https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/ https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters   *Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.