In this powerful episode, Lyndsay Soprano and Meg Appelgate, co-founder and CEO of Unsilenced, confront the hidden atrocities of the troubled teen industry (TTI). Lyndsay courageously shares her own scars from trauma and abuse, setting a raw and unfiltered tone for the conversation. Meg then opens up about her own nightmare—being kidnapped at 15 and subjected to years of relentless psychological abuse within TTI programs.

This episode pulls back the curtain on a $23 billion industry that thrives on the suffering of vulnerable children, exposing the shocking truths that have been kept in the shadows for far too long. It’s a conversation that resonates deeply with anyone who has felt the sting of trauma or stands beside someone who has. 

Meg's journey from a victim to a fierce advocate is nothing short of inspiring. Her relentless pursuit of justice through Unsilenced offers not just hope, but a roadmap for reclaiming one's life after trauma. This episode is a rallying cry for change, urging us all to listen, act, and support those working to dismantle a broken system and protect future generations.

Find Meg Appelgate Online Here:
Instagram: @megappelgate
Facebook: Meg Appelgate
LinkedIn: Meg Appelgate
Website: megappelgate.com
TikTok: @megappelgate

Find The Pain Game Podcast Online Here:
Website: thepaingamepodcast.com
Instagram: @thepaingamepodcast

Episode Highlights:
(00:00 ) Introduction to The Pain Game Podcast
(02:15 ) Lyndsay's personal trauma and its impact
(10:40 ) Introduction of Meg Applegate and her work with Unsilenced
(15:30 ) Meg's abduction and initial experiences in TTI programs
(25:45 ) The psychological and emotional abuse within TTI
(35:20 ) The financial and political aspects of the troubled teen industry
(45:10 ) Meg's journey to becoming unsilenced and advocating for others
(55:30 ) The importance of addressing trauma and mental health
(01:05:00 ) Resources and support for survivors of TTI
(01:10:00 ) Final thoughts and words of encouragement for listeners