Emily Bernath, an author and advocate, shares her journey of faith, healing, and finding purpose after experiencing SA and finding herself at her lowest point. She discusses the challenges of writing about her trauma and the importance of including the personal element in her books. Emily also talks about her faith and how it played a role in her healing process.

She emphasizes the need for society to break the stigma around sexual assault and believe survivors. The conversation touches on the experiences of military spouses and the systemic issues they face when reporting domestic violence. Overall, Emily's story highlights the power of finding truth, healing, and purpose after trauma. In this conversation, Emily discusses her journey as a survivor of sexual assault and her advocacy work. She emphasizes the importance of finding peace and forgiveness in order to heal and regain control over one's life. Emily also talks about her involvement with the Reveal to Heal International nonprofit, which aims to create safe spaces for survivors to share their stories. She shares her experiences with speaking engagements and the challenges of navigating the military culture as a survivor.

Emily hopes to continue making an impact through her advocacy work and plans to write a fourth book focused on advocacy.

Resources:

Emily’s Website: https://www.emilybernathauthor.com/books/

Reveal to Heal International: https://revealtohealinternational.com/

Takeaways

• Including the personal element in writing about trauma can be challenging but necessary for healing and connecting with readers.
• Believing survivors of SA is crucial in breaking the stigma and providing support.
• Faith can play a significant role in the healing process and finding purpose after trauma.
• Systemic issues exist in the military regarding the reporting of domestic violence, leading to isolation and lack of support for military spouses.
• Finding truth, healing, and purpose after trauma requires self-compassion, seeking support, and exploring different coping mechanisms.
• Finding peace and forgiveness is essential for healing and regaining control over one's life after experiencing sexual assault.
• Creating safe spaces for survivors to share their stories is crucial in the healing process.
• Navigating the military culture as a survivor of sexual assault can be challenging, but there are support organizations and resources available.
  Speaking engagements provide an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for survivors of sexual assault.
• The younger generation, particularly Gen Z, is more aware and supportive of social justice issues, including sexual assault.
• Overcoming shame and fear is a journey that requires self-acceptance and the support of others.
• Survivors can seek help and support from rape crisis centers and hotlines.
  Sharing one's story and advocating for change can be empowering and help in the healing process.
  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
04:09 Loss of Relationships and Isolation
08:27 Faith and Relationship with God
12:30 Writing and Publishing Journey
15:47 Finding Truth and Purpose
19:41 Challenges in Responding to Sexual Assault Reports
23:39 The Importance of Taking Action and Supporting Survivors
27:22 The Role of Spirituality in Healing
30:39 Creating Safe Spaces for Survivors
31:35 Navigating Trust and Relationships
33:04 Emily's Involvement in Advocacy
35:25 The Impact of Sexual Assault in the Military
36:54 Challenges of the Military Culture
38:02 Toxic Influences and the Future
41:03 Emily's Future Plans and...

Kimberly Henry shares her past transformation from Navy veteran to social worker as shares her story of joining the Navy and the challenges she faced during her service. She discusses her experiences in basic training, her deployments, and the traumatic events she encountered.

We discuss the importance of coping skills such as writing, journaling, and meditation. She also introduces her empowerment journal, Warriors Path to Healing, designed for women veterans who have experienced trauma.

She shares her personal experience with inner child work and the impact it had on her healing journey. Kimberly provides guidance on how family members and friends can support survivors of assault or harassment. She also discusses the significance of prevention and policy changes in addressing these issues.

• Experiencing trauma and harassment in the military can have long-lasting effects on mental health and relationships.
• Seeking help and finding coping mechanisms are crucial for healing and moving forward.
• Coping skills such as writing, journaling, and meditation can be powerful tools for healing and self-care.
• The Warriors Path to Healing journal is a 12-week empowerment journal designed for women veterans who have experienced trauma.
• Writing and journaling can provide insight, perspective, and help in processing emotions and trauma.
• Supporting survivors of assault or harassment requires empathy, patience, and a willingness to listen and be present.
• Prevention and policy changes are crucial in addressing and preventing assault and harassment in the military and society.
• Communities can raise awareness and support survivors by educating themselves, sharing resources, and advocating for change.

Support/Resources:

The Gold Beacon: https://www.thegoldbeacon.com/

The Warrior's Path to Healing: https://www.thegoldbeacon.com/product-page/warrior-s-path-to-healing-a-12-week-empowerment-journal-for-women-veterans

Glass Soldier: https://www.glasssoldier.org/

Psych Armor: https://psycharmor.org/

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Share your story at here. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)

1620 Pablo is well-versed in alternate methods of medication. Pablo shares his experience using plant medicine, specifically cannabis and CBD, to deal with mental health obstacles and physical injuries.

1620 Pablo also emphasizes the need for better care and support for veterans within the VA system. while sharing his journey with cannabis and advocacy in the state of Florida. He discusses his involvement in fighting against restrictive hemp bills and the importance of small businesses in the industry. 1620 Pablo explains the difference between THC and CBD and the various benefits of different cannabinoids.

Additionally, he highlights the issue of military sexual trauma (MST) and the need for support and resources for survivors. 1620 Pablo emphasizes the importance of post-traumatic growth and the collective effort needed to address mental health issues and reduce suicide rates among veterans and the wider community.

MST Task Force Puerto Rico: https://www.benefits.va.gov/sanjuan/

The Centre: https://www.thecentrespb.com/

Battle Buds: https://www.battlebudsusa.com/

Mike Minardi: https://minardilaw.com/

Tu Canna: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amnQPWPXVQw

Chillum: https://chillumdispensary.com/

Join our Facebook group

Share your story at here. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)

1. The Airman charged with kidnapping and sexually a 15-year-old girl pleads not guilty as tensions rise in Okinawa between the local population and US military presence,
2. Active duty military member charges with sexual assault, missing West Virginia teen found with him
3. How A Coast Guard email erupted into a reckoning
4. Army Soldier Found Dead with Almost 70 Stab Wounds.
5. Bipartisan Bill Aims to Improve VA Training for MST Claims

Link to RAND Research: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RBA1013-1.html

Michael Hineline, owner of Float Brothers Float Spa in Destin, Florida, discusses the benefits and experience of float therapy. He shares the origins of float therapy, the anti-gravity environment created by the high concentration of Epsom salt, and the benefits of floating in a sensory deprivation tank. Michael explains how float therapy can be customized to individual preferences and how it can be used as a tool for mental health and self-care.

Michael and Rachelle discuss the positive impact of float therapy on active duty military personnel and veterans, as well as the nonprofit initiatives aimed at providing free floats to those with PTSD. Michael emphasizes the importance of letting go and finding balance in life. He takes us through the process of a float spa experience, from the initial logistics to the first float and subsequent sessions. He explains the filtration and sterilization process to ensure a clean and safe environment.

Takeaways

• Float therapy involves floating in a sensory deprivation tank filled with a high concentration of Epsom salt, creating an anti-gravity environment.
• Float therapy can be customized to individual preferences, including music selection and lighting options.
• Float therapy has numerous physical and mental health benefits, including muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, decreased stress levels, and improved sleep.
• Float therapy can be a valuable tool for individuals with PTSD and trauma, providing a safe and non-verbal space for healing.
• Float therapy has been particularly beneficial for active duty military personnel and veterans, with programs offering free floats and support.
• Incorporating float therapy into a balanced lifestyle can enhance mindfulness, self-reflection, and overall well-being. Float therapy is an exercise in letting go and finding balance in life.
• The first float experience focuses on the mechanics and logistics, while subsequent floats delve into the benefits and personalization.
• Float spas have a rigorous filtration and sterilization process to ensure a clean and safe environment.

To Learn More Visit:

• https://floatbrothers.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/floatbrothers/
• info@floatbrothers.com
• https://www.flowfwd.org/

Share your story at info@silencedvoicesmst.com. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)

In this episode of "The Big Voice," Rachelle Smith discusses five critical news stories related to military sexual trauma (MST) and the broader implications within the military culture. She emphasizes the importance of accountability and systemic change. The stories include the court-martial of Maj. Gen. Phillip Stewart, sexual assault cases in Okinawa, the lawsuit by Joint Base Lewis-McChord servicemen against a military doctor, a Navy sailor charged with murder while out on bond, and T.I. and Tiny seeking dismissal of rape claims from an Air Force veteran.

Sources:

1. [Two-Star General’s Court-Martial]

(https://taskandpurpose.com/news/two-star-court-martial-consent/)

2. [Okinawa Sexual Assault Cases]

(https://taskandpurpose.com/news/okinawa-sexual-assault-cases/)

3. [Army Didn’t Protect Troops]

(https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/06/30/troops-say-army-didnt-protect-them-from-doctor-charged-with-sex-abuse/)

4. [Navy Sailor Accused of Murdering Texas Woman]

(https://www.tampafp.com/navy-sailor-accused-of-murdering-texas-woman-while-out-on-bond-for-california-torture-like-sexual-assault/)

5. [T.I. and Tiny Seek Dismissal]

(https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/t-i-tiny-seek-dismissal-of-drugging-rape-claims-from-air-force-veteran-1235054077/)

Supporting Information:

1. [What is Consent?]

(https://care.ucr.edu/education/what-is-consent)

2. [Army Culture and Consent]

(https://www.militarytimes.com/opinion/2022/03/08/in-army-culture-silence-is-still-interpreted-as-consent/)

3. [Military Times PDF]

(https://s3.amazonaws.com/static.militarytimes.com/assets/pdfs/1646756472.pdf)

4. [NotAllMen]

(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NotAllMen)

5. [Denise Lissette Ramos Case]

(https://www.kwtx.com/2024/05/21/denise-lissette-ramos-father-speaks-out-after-police-release-name-man-charged-her-murder/)

6. [Float Brothers]

(https://floatbrothers.com/)

Cheryl Mullick, a member of Pave USA, discusses the process of placing service dogs with handlers who have severe PTSD from military sexual trauma (MST). The organization trains dogs to work with handlers who have various disabilities, including epilepsy, diabetes, and PTSD. The screening process for applicants is detailed and includes requirements such as an honorable discharge from the military, a disability rating from the VA, and current treatment for PTSD. The dogs are trained to detect specific scents related to the handler's condition, such as hormones associated with panic attacks or nightmares. The bond between the handler and the dog is crucial, and the organization provides ongoing support and training for the lifetime of the dog. Service dogs play a crucial role in supporting veterans with disabilities, particularly those with PTSD. These dogs are trained to provide specific assistance based on the individual's needs, such as alerting to anxiety or nightmares. Retrievers are often the preferred breed for service dogs due to their friendly and steady nature. It is important to distinguish between emotional support animals and service dogs, as the latter have public access privileges and are trained to mitigate specific disabilities. The bond between a veteran and their service dog is profound, and these dogs can sense and respond to their handler's emotions and needs.

Takeaways

- PAVE USA is an organization that places service dogs with handlers who have severe PTSD from military sexual trauma.

- The screening process for applicants includes requirements such as an honorable discharge from the military, a disability rating from the VA, and current treatment for PTSD.

- The dogs are trained to detect specific scents related to the handler's condition, such as hormones associated with panic attacks or nightmares.

- The bond between the handler and the dog is crucial, and the organization provides ongoing support and training for the lifetime of the dog. Service dogs are trained to provide specific assistance to veterans with disabilities, such as alerting to anxiety or nightmares.

- Retrievers are often the preferred breed for service dogs due to their friendly and steady nature. - It is important to distinguish between emotional support animals and service dogs, as the latter have public access privileges and are trained to mitigate specific disabilities.

- The bond between a veteran and their service dog is profound, and these dogs can sense and respond to their handler's emotions and needs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:07 Cheryl's Background in Animal Training

06:07 The Process of Getting a Service Dog

09:18 Requirements and Screening Process

12:42 The Bond Between Handler and Dog

15:36 Training Service Dogs: Specific Tasks

24:00 The Magic Between Dog and Person

27:57 The Incredible Abilities of Dogs

30:52 Introduction to Service Dogs for Veterans

42:20 Training and Qualities of Service Dogs

44:16 Difference Between Emotional Support Animals and Service Dogs

48:04 Heartwarming Stories of Service Dogs Transforming Lives

57:17 How to Get Involved and Support PAVE 01:00:09 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

We share four news stories we need to keep an eye on related to military sexual trauma (MST). She highlights the toxic nature of the military and how MST is a symptom of a larger problem. The first story focuses on the Campaign for PCS Safety, which aims to protect gender diverse and people of color service members from MST. The second story discusses the court martial of Major General Stewart for alleged acts of sexual violence. The third story involves a soldier charged with child sexual assault and abuse. The fourth story covers the arrest of a retired brigadier general for alleged child sex crimes. The episode concludes with a reminder to come forward as a survivor and the announcement of upcoming guests and resources.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Top 5 MST News Stories

01:10 MST as a Symptom of a Toxic Military Culture

04:49 Court Martial of Major General Stewart: Holding High-Ranking Officials Accountable

08:36 Soldier Charged with Child Sexual Assault: Highlighting the Diversity of Perpetrators

11:44 Arrest of Retired General for Child Sex Crimes: The Need for Accountability

15:19 Supporting Survivors and Advocating for Change

Article 1: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/06/21/active-duty-families-seek-transparency-hate-crimes-and-racism-military-communities.html

Article 2: https://www.airandspaceforces.com/air-force-phillip-stewart-court-martial-jury-candidates/

Article 3: https://www.stripes.com/theaters/us/2024-06-21/fort-campbell-soldier-sexual-abuse-photos-children-14255111.html

Article 4: https://www.cbs19.tv/article/news/local/retired-air-force-general-arrested-for-child-sexual-assault-in-east-texas/501-fc968884-3998-44ac-90dc-ac2b5fee0a79#:~:text=According%20to%20Hopkins%20County%20judicial,He%20has%20since%20been%20released.