Ladies Take Control

Host Katie Mares met Olympic medalist and Executive coach Elizabeth Manley a few weeks before this episode was recorded. In honour of May being Mental Health Awareness month, she invites Liz to share her journey from athlete to mental health advocate. The conversation explores the importance of vulnerability, self-care, the impact of mental health on women in abusive situations and the need for self-acceptance. After spending more the twenty years in the United States performing and coaching, Liz now lives in Collingwood, Ontario. Liz was the Director of Skating for the Granite Club. Liz is a certified Life/Executive Coach with CTI International and holds a degree with CCPC International Coaching Federation. She is also a Certified Reiki healer. She focuses on inner well being, emotional traumas and issues while inspiring clients to move forward in life in a more positive way. As she says... “The best project you can work on ...is yourself!”. Clients range from professional athletes to executives. Elizabeth also worked with Expert ADHD Coaching as an Executive Coach. She has also written two autobiographies, Thumbs Up- The Elizabeth Manley Story and Elizabeth Manley - As I am. Liz was named " Woman of the Year " by Chatelaine magazine in 1988 and Athlete of the Year for Canada in 1988. She has many awards and accolades to her name including recipient of “ The Royal Order of Canada” by the Governor General, the Queens Jubilee Award and honourary degree recipient from Algonquin College. Liz is a member of the Olympic Hall of Fame, the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame, Skate Canada Hall of Fame, the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame, the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. Liz now spends her time with coaching, speaking engagements, charitable work, and producing. She has a rink that the city named after her in Gloucester, Ontario, The Elizabeth Manley International Training Centre and a park named after her in Ottawa, Ontario. Elizabeth runs competitive seminars in Canada and the United States working with hockey camps and multiple teams including Ottawa, Toronto, and Collingwood. Connect with Elizabeth Manley on Instagram @lizmanley88 or on X @lizmanley88. Find mental health resources from the Canadian Mental Health Association: https://cmha.ca/ Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In part two on the topic of intimate partner violence (IPV), host Katie Mares interviews survivor Cait Alexander, a victim who is fighting the Canadian justice system with her constant advocacy and activism. They discuss the importance of taking action to support victims and survivors, the need for legislative change to prevent intimate partner violence, and the role of awareness, funding, and legislation in creating lasting change. They also highlight the prevalence of intimate partner violence and the need for victims to be heard and supported. Cait shares her personal experience with the legal system and discusses the importance of community support, self-care, and accessing resources for healing. Cait Alexander is a multifaceted artist – actress, singer, model, songwriter, pianist, composer, and poet. Her ambition in every medium is to tell the most honest story. From her small town Canadian roots, to a career on the International stage starting in fashion, Cait has walked the world’s runways and graced magazine covers all over. Having started in theatre as a child, Cait has risen to roles in countless commercials, major TV shows and films: The Handmaids Tale, Clarice, My Next Door Nightmare and Spinning Gold. She has even starred in Bollywood movies, while embracing working in diverse cultures. She has a BA in Theatre from York University in Toronto and Certificate in Film/TV Composing from Berklee College of Music and has completed Royal Conservatory Level 8 Piano and Theory 2. She has a vested interest in studying law and is working towards taking the Bar. Aside from accolades, there is the most important quality: intent. Whatever the medium she aims to connect sincerely with you, through photos, on the screen, by song, and on the page. She hopes you learns something about yourself, heal or become inspired to your own greatness. Cait is hosting and co-chairing a Gala at the Four Seasons in Toronto on October 24th, 2024 with Shelter Movers, members of the NHL, billionaires, celebrities, and more will be in attendance. Follow her instagram or connect with Cait on her website for updates: https://www.caitalexander.com/ Read more: CTV News (https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/attempted-murder-is-not-a-priority-victims-of-tossed-out-cases-speak-out-amid-lower-ont-justice-funding-1.6826046) CP24 (https://www.cp24.com/news/attempted-murder-is-not-a-priority-victims-of-tossed-out-cases-speak-out-amid-lower-ont-justice-funding-1.6826067) CityNews Toronto (https://toronto.citynews.ca/2024/03/28/stop-with-the-excuses-emotional-appeals-to-overhaul-court-system-amid-growing-backlogs/) Global News (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXsYIrbY7Vk) Cait's favourite Yoga instructor on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene Sign the petition Katie and Cait reference in this episode: https://www.ontariondp.ca/bill-173 Read more about Bill 173: https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-173 https://www.cp24.com/news/intimate-partner-violence-could-be-declared-an-epidemic-in-ontario-after-ford-gov-t-says-it-will-back-ndp-bill-1.6841266 https://www.ontariondp.ca/news/ontario-ndp-bill-brings-ontario-one-step-closer-declaring-intimate-partner-violence-epidemic RESOURCES Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Katie Mares discusses her personal experience with intimate partner violence (IPV) and highlights the importance of recognizing IPV as an epidemic. She shares her positive experience attending a bill hearing for Bill 173, which aims to declare IPV as an epidemic in Ontario. Katie emphasizes the need for prevention, promoting health, and prolonging life in addressing IPV. She also discusses the impact of IPV on individuals and society, including the mental health toll, economic consequences, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding IPV. Katie encourages listeners to sign a petition in support of Bill 173 and thanks the London Abused Women's Centre, survivors, government officials, and supporters for their efforts in addressing IPV. Sign the petition Katie mentions in this episode: https://www.ontariondp.ca/bill-173 Listen to the recent episode with guest Jennifer Dunn Read more about Bill 173: https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-173 https://www.cp24.com/news/intimate-partner-violence-could-be-declared-an-epidemic-in-ontario-after-ford-gov-t-says-it-will-back-ndp-bill-1.6841266 https://www.ontariondp.ca/news/ontario-ndp-bill-brings-ontario-one-step-closer-declaring-intimate-partner-violence-epidemic RESOURCES Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Katie Mares and Psychotherapist Carlen Costa discuss topics and tools related to sexual assault, domestic abuse, and the importance of self-care. They explore concepts such as manipulation, narcissism, and gaslighting, and how these behaviors can contribute to trauma bonds. The conversation explores the dynamics of abusive relationships and the reasons why victims may stay in them. It emphasizes that being in an abusive relationship is not a reflection of the victim's worth or choices, but rather the result of the abuser's intentions. Victim-blaming and self-gaslighting are common responses that hinder victims from recognizing the red flags and leaving the relationship. The conversation also delves into the concept of fear being disguised as love, where intense emotions and hyper-arousal can be mistaken for love and excitement. It highlights the importance of validating one's own experiences, seeking support from others, and creating a safety plan to break free from the cycle of abuse. In this part of the conversation, Carlen shares her personal experience of sexual assault and the impact it had on her. They discuss the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, the importance of checking in with oneself and seeking validation when boundaries are crossed. Carlen Costa is a dynamic OCSWSSW psychotherapist, clinical sexologist, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist and cannabis educator based in London, Ontario, Canada. She engages you to learn how to love yourself and others better through her revolutionary love and mental wealth lifestyle brand that is committed to making a positive impact.  Her passion for empowering others extends to her role as the host of The Spicy Fat Podcast, where she delves into topics ranging from ADHD, weight loss, positive body image, mental health, love, relationships, to cannabis and psychedelics. This podcast, available on YouTube, reflects Carlen's mission to guide women entering their 40s in understanding their bodies, brains, and hearts while fostering radical self-love. Find out more about Carlen Costa and her practice: https://www.carlencosta.com/ April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month https://opdv.ny.gov/april-sexual-assault-awareness-month April is Sexual Assault Awareness month; a month of solidarity dedicated to sexual assault victims. It’s meant to raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault and violence while sharing information and resources to foster a great understanding of consent. Some statistics from www.sexassault.ca: 1 in 4 women in North America will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime. For every 100 incidents in Canada, only 6 are reported to police. Over 80% of sex crime victims in Canada are women. Fewer than half of sexual assault cases in adult criminal court result in a guilty verdict. (www.justice.gc.ca) Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support organizations that provide relief and guidance to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. Proceeds from Women in Media Network launch merchandise will support the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.womeninmedia.network/. Access the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.lawc.on.ca/ The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

*Episode Disclaimer* This podcast explores topics surrounding domestic abuse. Listener discretion is advised. Host Katie Mares explores the process and challenges of breaking the silence surrounding domestic abuse. She discusses reasons why survivors may choose not to report abuse and the fear and consequences they may face. Katie discusses backlash from abusers and the positive effects of sharing and speaking up. As always, Katie emphasizes the importance of community support and provides practical advice for survivors who are considering breaking their silence.  Takeaways Breaking the silence surrounding domestic abuse is a complex and individualized process that requires courage and support. Survivors may choose not to report abuse due to fear, shame, and lack of trust in the system. Breaking the silence can lead to backlash from abusers, but it can also empower survivors and help others recognize their own abuse. Community support and resources are crucial for survivors who choose to break their silence. The journey from surviving to thriving requires self-worth, a positive mindset, and ongoing healing and growth. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (02:10) Reasons for not reporting abuse (03:28) Reactions and experiences after breaking silence (05:08) The impact of breaking silence (08:17) The continuation of abuse (09:10) The self-gaslighting fight (09:38) The power of sharing and speaking up (13:51) The challenges of life after abuse (15:35) The process of healing and growth (22:39) The impact of breaking silence on the survivor (28:45) Creating a safer society (31:43) Ways to prepare for breaking silence (36:12) The reporting process (39:04) The importance of community support (41:18) The journey from surviving to thriving (45:02) The power of sharing and being heard (52:52) The importance of celebrating progress (54:46) Conclusion Resources  Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support organizations that provide relief and guidance to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. All proceeds from Women in Media Network launch merchandise will support the London Abused Women's Centre. https://www.womeninmedia.network/. Access the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.lawc.on.ca/ The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

*Disclaimer* This episode discusses domestic abuse and intimate partner violence, listener discretion is advised. Host Katie Mares interviews Jennifer Dunn, the Executive Director of the London Abused Women's Centre (LAWC). They discuss the mission of the center and the different types of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and spiritual abuse. They also explore the challenges faced by women in identifying and leaving abusive relationships and the societal and systemic barriers that prevent them from seeking help. The conversation highlights the need for increased awareness, support, and systemic changes to address intimate partner violence. They also discuss the impact of abuse on children, the importance of prevention and education, and the availability of support and resources. Jennifer Dunn has been with the London Abused Women’s Centre for 13 years in various roles and is in her third year as the Executive Director. Jennifer advocates locally, provincially, nationally and at all levels of government to take systemic action to end the oppression of women and girls. During her time at the London Abused Women’s Centre, she has appeared before the House of Commons and the Senate.   Topics Introduction and Mission of the London Abused Women's Center Understanding Abuse and Identifying It The Complexity of Leaving an Abusive Relationship Breaking the Silence and Bringing Awareness The Challenges of Speaking Up and Seeking Help The Criminal Justice System and Intimate Partner Violence The Need for an Investigative Unit and Systemic Issues The Challenges of Charging and Proving Abuse The Reality of Domestic Abuse The Need for Change in Society The Impact on Children Prevention and Education Support and Resources Breaking the Silence Takeaways Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and spiritual abuse. Leaving an abusive relationship is complex and often hindered by various factors such as fear, shame, lack of support, immigration status, and financial dependence. The criminal justice system needs to be more trauma-informed and better equipped to handle cases of intimate partner violence. Increased awareness, support, and systemic changes are necessary to address and prevent intimate partner violence. Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue that affects many individuals, and it is important to recognize the signs and support those who are experiencing it. Societal change is necessary to address the root causes of domestic abuse and create a culture that values and respects women. Children who witness domestic abuse are deeply affected and need support and resources to break the cycle of violence. Prevention and education are key in addressing domestic abuse, and it is crucial to teach young boys and men about healthy relationships and consent. There are resources and organizations available to support victims of domestic abuse, and it is important to reach out for help and break the silence. Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support organizations that provide relief and guidance to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. Find out more about Jennifer's work with the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.lawc.on.ca/ Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Disclaimer: This podcast discusses domestic abuse, listener discretion is advised. In this episode, Katie Mares is joined by friend, energy healer and quantum advisor, Holly Bell. The two discuss the topic of domestic abuse and the importance of speaking up. Holly shares about a recent personal experience with abuse, reminding listeners that there are many types of abuse and they are not all physical. Holly discusses the challenges she faced leaving a recent relationship. They emphasize the silence and fear that often prevent women from speaking up about their experiences. The pivotal moment for Holly came when she reached out for support and decided to break the silence. They highlight the importance of community and surrounding oneself with supportive people. Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Some resources from Katie: National Domestic Violence Hotline Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service Learn more at 800-799-7233 Resources by state on violence against women Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support of organizations that provide support to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Disclaimer: This podcast discusses domestic abuse, listener discretion is advised. Katie Mares reflects on her 40th birthday and the transformative journey she has been on in the past 90 days. She shares a journal entry from 90 days ago, highlighting the growth and strength she has gained since leaving an abusive relationship. Katie emphasizes some helpful tools for anyone who might find themselves in a similar situation: The importance of community and having a support system Change the way you talk to yourself, be positive and kind. Celebrating wins big and small. Challenge your limiting beliefs Face your fears with courage. Finally, Katie empowers others to share their stories and create a safe space for healing and growth. Connect with the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Some resources from Katie: National Domestic Violence Hotline Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service Learn more at 800-799-7233 Resources by state on violence against women Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support of organizations that provide support to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Disclaimer: This podcast discusses domestic abuse, listener discretion is advised. On the first episode of Ladies Take Control, you'll get to know the host, Katie Mares. She discusses her career journey and how she found her passion for inspiring positive change. Katie opens up about the manipulation and abuse she endured in her relationships, including the first instance of physical abuse. She shares some of her personal experiences surrounding domestic abuse, but despite self-doubt, she is determined to be a voice for others and create a supportive community through the Ladies Take Control podcast. Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Some resources from Katie: National Domestic Violence Hotline Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service Learn more at 800-799-7233 Resources by state on violence against women Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support of organizations that provide support to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katie Mares is a best-selling author, a highly sought-after international speaker and the host of Ladies Take Control; a podcast about finding the courage to do hard things. Katie is known for speaking about bravery, resilience, and the power of choice. As a survivor of domestic abuse, she is on a mission to empower women who have lost access to their voices. Katie wants to build a supportive community for those living in fear and self-doubt. Katie’s mission is to remind you that there is always a way out and you always have a choice. With a focus on the importance of self-worth and the power of a positive mindset, Katie hopes to inspire women to make brave choices to take control of their lives. Sound Design by Reem Elmaghraby. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices