In this bonus deep-dive episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, we expand on Episode 4 of the Advocate Series with survivor, advocate, and legal expert Bekah Charleston. Bekah spent nearly ten years being trafficked through the brothels of Nevada, and today she leads the Charleston Law Center, providing pro-bono legal services to survivors. Her insights into prostitution, coercion, legalized brothels, and survivor healing offer one of the clearest explanations of what exploitation really looks like beneath the surface. EP4 BEKAH v3_4458038186_FINAL This conversation continues the mission of the Advocate Series—a 5-part Bible study featuring Francis Chan, designed to equip the Church to confront human trafficking with truth, compassion, and Christ-centered action. Bekah shares powerful truths about: * Why legalized prostitution still fuels trafficking * How "empowerment" is being distorted in culture * Why victims often don't call themselves victims * The role of the Church in prevention, healing, and justice * What true empowerment, safety, and restoration look like 🔗 Watch the Advocate Series for free: https://AdvocateSeries.com ✝️ Become an Abolitionist: https://USIAHT.org/Abolitionists 🎧 Subscribe for more deep dives featuring survivors, experts & leaders. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome & introduction to Bekah Charleston 0:42 – Bekah's story: trafficked through Nevada's legal brothels 3:08 – Why Episode 4 resonated: the power of education & readiness 5:19 – The truth about legal prostitution and exploitation 7:13 – Why victims often don't know they're being trafficked 9:18 – How traffickers use "empowerment" as a weapon 12:15 – How porn and culture fuel sex buying 15:55 – Victim-blaming, vulnerability & the Church's response 18:40 – What survivors need: safety, consistency & dignity 21:32 – What real legal support looks like for survivors 24:34 – What would need to change to truly end trafficking 28:01 – Final encouragement: how the Church can act now

In this bonus episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, we dive deeper into Episode 3 of the Advocate Series with Savannah, a survivor of familial trafficking whose story of faith and perseverance has inspired countless others. Savannah opens up about her journey from abuse and secrecy to healing, restoration, and leadership—and how consistent love and faith changed her life. Through Savannah's story, host Jeremy Hicks explores how the Church can become a safe, consistent presence for survivors, what it means to love like Christ, and how advocacy starts with relationship and compassion—not perfection. This conversation builds on the Advocate Series—a 5-part video Bible study led by Francis Chan and produced by the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking, equipping the Church to confront human trafficking with courage and Christ-centered action. 🔗 Watch the full Advocate Series for free: AdvocateSeries.com ✝️ Become an Abolitionist: USIAHT.org/Abolitionists 🎧 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America for more deep dives and survivor-led discussions. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome & introduction to Advocate Series Episode 3 0:35 – Meet Savannah: survivor and advocate from Florida 6:15 – Discovering her story of familial trafficking 8:49 – Why hearing other survivors' stories brings healing 10:08 – Breaking silence: the lifelong effects of abuse 11:28 – Understanding loyalty and protection in abusive families 13:55 – The power of awareness and survivor storytelling 17:05 – Building trust and safety for children in crisis 18:40 – How consistency changes everything 21:06 – Finding healing through counseling and relationships 22:15 – Why advocacy takes patience, not quick results 24:03 – What survivors truly need: time, safety, and grace 26:11 – The role of the Church in showing unconditional love 30:19 – Why consistency matters more than programs 33:41 – How the Church can love without expectation 36:27 – Overcoming judgment and seeing people through Christ's eyes 38:46 – Savannah's life now: from survivor to state advocate 40:01 – Finding faith and freedom in Christ 43:07 – The Church's missing role in ending trafficking 44:44 – Closing encouragement for leaders and advocates

In this bonus episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, we take a deeper look into Episode 2 of the Advocate Series, joined by survivor and abolitionist Oree Freeman. Oree shares her powerful story of redemption, healing, and faith—and challenges the Church to move beyond awareness into real relationship, compassion, and action. This conversation expands on the Advocate Series—a 5-part Bible study led by Francis Chan—produced by the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking to help believers confront trafficking with a Christ-centered mindset and heart posture. 💡 Hear how one survivor went from exploitation to advocacy, what "tough love" really looks like in healing, and why the Church must learn to love without expectation. 🔗 Watch the full Advocate Series for free: AdvocateSeries.com ✝️ Become an Abolitionist: USIAHT.org/Abolitionist 🎧 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America for more Advocate deep dives and survivor-led conversations. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome back to the Advocate Series deep dive 0:35 – Introducing Oree Freeman and her advocacy work 2:20 – From surviving to thriving: Oree's journey to healing 4:00 – Facing PTSD and learning to rest in God 6:00 – Discovering God as Father, Comforter, and King 8:15 – The importance of restoration and rest for survivors 10:10 – How gratitude and faith shape Oree's healing process 13:00 – Planting seeds: how small acts of kindness change lives 16:00 – Why "noticing" is sacred—seeing the unseen 18:00 – How to respond when you sense something is wrong 21:30 – What trafficking looks like in everyday life 25:00 – Planting seeds vs. rescuing: what the Church can do 29:00 – Stories of love that changed Oree's life 33:00 – The Church's role in building consistent, patient relationships 38:00 – Showing up with the right heart: love without expectation 43:00 – Tough love vs. enabling: what real support looks like 52:00 – Serving with discernment and compassion 1:02:00 – Staying committed even when the story isn't "finished" 1:07:00 – Oree's final message: love people without expectation

About this Episode: In this bonus episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, we take a deeper dive into Episode 1 of the Advocate Series with Bruce Deel, founder and CEO of City of Refuge in Atlanta. Bruce shares powerful stories from his 25+ years of ministry serving people in crisis and explains why the Church must confront human trafficking with courage, compassion, and biblical conviction. This bonus conversation expands on the Advocate Series—a new 5-part Bible study led by Francis Chan—created by the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking to equip the Church to respond to trafficking in a Christ-centered way. 💡 Learn how one pastor turned a single act of compassion into a movement serving hundreds of survivors—and how your church can take practical steps to join the fight. 🔗 Watch the full Advocate Series for free: AdvocateSeries.com ✝️ Become an Abolitionist: USIAHT.org/Abolitionist 🎧 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America for future Advocate deep dives and new conversations on ending trafficking through faith and action. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to the Trafficking Free America Podcast 0:33 – Introducing Bruce Deel & City of Refuge 2:22 – The moment that changed everything: helping a woman escape trafficking 3:36 – Why the Church must confront trafficking, not avoid it 5:44 – How fear and ignorance keep churches from engaging 7:13 – Why the Advocate Series matters for pastors and believers 9:06 – The difference between faith-based advocacy and secular training 11:53 – Behind the scenes: Bruce's first impression of the Advocate Series 13:48 – Why confrontation in the Church is necessary for change 16:23 – Advice for viewers new to the issue of human trafficking 18:03 – Confrontation, conviction, and the call to act 20:19 – What the average Christian can do right now 22:52 – Transforming your heart before taking action 25:57 – How to respond to buyers, traffickers, and victims with grace and truth 28:31 – Guiding group discussions around difficult conversations 30:05 – Handling disclosures or confessions safely in church settings 32:48 – How this series can transform individuals and strengthen the Church 35:18 – Bruce's closing prayer for the Church and survivors 37:01 – How to watch, download, and get involved

About this Episode: We've faced the weight of the problem—now it's time to act. In the final episode of the Advocate Series, Francis Chan, survivors, and advocates challenge the Church to step into its God-given role: preventing trafficking, serving victims, and disrupting the demand. Hope is not lost—together, we can push back the darkness. Watch full series here.  [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZs7M6VL9t01xVcbEdMEsip&si=1wT7VbQh5BaoGUrg] Full Description: Episode 5 concludes the Advocate Series with a call to action. The fight against human trafficking isn't just about awareness—it's about movement. Survivors and leaders share practical steps for prevention, victim care, and ending demand, while pastor Francis Chan reminds us that Christ has empowered His Church to confront evil with courage and compassion. You'll also learn about the Abolitionist Project, a national effort to equip and mobilize believers into real action in their communities. This final episode is both a challenge and an invitation: to let our hearts break with God's heart, to love boldly, and to step forward together as the Body of Christ. 🔔 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZI4ScnuIS7-4uBYh3LGaN9&si=6XBjlgEG5xeXmIVG] and join the mission to advocate hope for the hopeless. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Opening reflection: the weight of the journey so far 1:20 – The despair of hopelessness vs. the hope of Christ 1:54 – The evil of trafficking: abuse of power and silence 2:29 – What history teaches us: slavery wasn't abolished overnight 3:04 – Why the Church—not systems alone—must lead the way 3:59 – Aligning our hearts with the heart of Jesus 5:24 – The uncomfortable reality: facing what's really happening 6:21 – Practical steps: recognizing signs, calling hotlines, reporting 7:22 – Public accountability: laws, penalties, and awareness 7:48 – Trafficking is everywhere—and so are churches 8:33 – The Church's call: love them where they are, consistently 9:22 – Three strategies: prevent, disrupt demand, serve the vulnerable 10:34 – What prevention looks like: foster care, youth, education 11:03 – Disrupting demand: awareness and accountability 11:35 – Serving the impoverished with tangible resources 12:27 – The Abolitionist Project: how to join the movement 13:42 – Building an army of abolitionists across the nation 14:23 – Final encouragement: God is already at work 14:57 – Closing prayer and call to action

About this Episode: Is prostitution a choice—or another form of trafficking? In this episode of the Advocate Series, survivors share raw stories of addiction, exploitation, and rejection, while Francis Chan reveals how Christ calls us to respond with love, patience, and forgiveness—even when change takes time. Watch full series here [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZs7M6VL9t01xVcbEdMEsip&si=1wT7VbQh5BaoGUrg] Full Description: Episode 4 of the Advocate Series confronts one of the most debated questions: Is there a difference between prostitution and trafficking? Through emotional testimonies and biblical teaching, this episode uncovers how coercion, manipulation, and broken identity blur the lines society tries to draw. You'll hear from survivors who once believed they "deserved" their pain, only to discover freedom through Christ and the patient, unrelenting love of His people. Pastor Francis Chan draws from Luke 7 to show how Jesus treated the most rejected with dignity, forgiveness, and restoration—and how the Church can do the same today. 🔔 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZI4ScnuIS7-4uBYh3LGaN9&si=6XBjlgEG5xeXmIVG] and join us in defending hope for the hopeless 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Opening reflection: anger, justice, and God's call to help others 1:47 – First steps in rescue and restoration 3:06 – Survivors experiencing real love for the first time 4:21 – The challenge of trust and patience in recovery 5:25 – When help is rejected: what do we do? 6:54 – A young man's struggle: "I can earn more in one night on the streets" 7:47 – Identity shattered: seeing yourself as an object 8:27 – Survivor story: loneliness, depression, and the lure of prostitution 10:00 – "I thought I was just a prostitute, not trafficked" 11:35 – Stigma, rejection, and believing lies about worth 12:40 – Hopelessness, drugs, and praying for a way out 13:54 – Prostitution vs. trafficking: is there really a difference? 15:28 – Luke 7: Jesus and the woman labeled a sinner 16:40 – Seeing people as children of God, not objects 18:22 – Survivor testimony: meeting a mentor who wouldn't stop loving 20:46 – How survivors teach us about God's grace 21:36 – Gratitude and freedom: "God picked me up out of a dark place" 22:35 – Patience and perseverance in restoration ministry 23:39 – Jesus' parable: forgiveness, debt, and deeper love 24:51 – Why the rejected often love God most deeply 25:26 – The Church's opportunity: patience, sacrifice, and redemption

About this Episode: What gives a person their worth? In this episode of the Advocate Series, Francis Chan and survivors reveal how traffickers exploit broken identities—and how the truth that we are made in God's image can restore hope, value, and freedom. Watch full series here. [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZs7M6VL9t01xVcbEdMEsip&si=1wT7VbQh5BaoGUrg] Full Description: Episode 3 of the Advocate Series exposes one of the trafficker's most powerful weapons: distorted worth and counterfeit love. Survivors share raw testimonies of being dehumanized and coerced, while pastor Francis Chan reminds us that true value comes from being made in the image of God. Through stories of pain, resilience, and redemption, this episode explores how unconditional, patient, and consistent love—rooted in Christ—can break exploitation and restore lives. It's a call for the Church to not just recognize trafficking but to live out real, sacrificial love in homes, communities, and congregations. 🔔 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZI4ScnuIS7-4uBYh3LGaN9&si=6XBjlgEG5xeXmIVG]and join us in defending hope for the hopeless. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction 0:48 – Humanity made in God's image 2:01 – The lies of worldly worth vs. God's truth 2:58 – Love as Jesus commanded: turning away loneliness and evil 3:45 – How traffickers exploit identity and worth 4:26 – Victims who don't see themselves as victims 5:09 – Why boys are often left out of the conversation 5:53 – Predators target the vulnerable and traumatized 6:42 – Recognizing the signs of trafficking in everyday life 7:44 – The Church's responsibility: proactive, not reactive 8:47 – Trafficking myths vs. reality (not like Taken) 9:53 – Survivor story: a mother's betrayal and cycles of abuse 12:10 – Discovering the truth: "It wasn't my fault" 15:33 – The chase for love traffickers prey upon 17:24 – Families and communities showing consistent, unconditional love 18:40 – Group home story: consistent love that changed a life 22:15 – Choosing survivor identity over victimhood 23:12 – Oree's redemption story and the rarity of breakthrough 25:16 – Equipping the Church: showing true love in families and communities 26:22 – Valuing others—and yourself—as made in God's image

About this Episode: Why would a loving God allow human trafficking to exist? In this powerful episode of the Advocate Series, Francis Chan and survivors wrestle with the hard questions, share raw stories of exploitation, and reveal how the Church can recognize the signs and respond with compassion and action. Watch full series here.  [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZs7M6VL9t01xVcbEdMEsip&si=1wT7VbQh5BaoGUrg] Full Description: The Advocate Series continues as pastor and author Francis Chan joins with survivors, advocates, and leaders to confront one of the most difficult questions: Why does God allow such evil? Through survivor testimony and biblical reflection, this episode sheds light on how traffickers prey on vulnerabilities like poverty, addiction, and lack of identity—and how grooming and coercion often replace the "kidnap" myths many imagine. This is not just education; it's preparation. Like CPR for the soul, learning to spot the signs of trafficking can save lives. The Church is called not to turn away but to notice, act, and bring the hope of Christ into the darkest places. 🔔 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZI4ScnuIS7-4uBYh3LGaN9&si=6XBjlgEG5xeXmIVG] and join the mission to advocate hope for the hopeless. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Opening question: Why would God allow this? 1:12 – The reality of sin and human suffering 2:46 – Judgment and responsibility: God's call to act 3:48 – Defining human trafficking: fraud, force, coercion 4:35 – Survivors share: "I didn't know I was trafficked" 6:07 – Boys as victims: breaking stereotypes 7:04 – Vulnerabilities traffickers exploit (poverty, abuse, identity loss) 8:03 – Grooming explained: psychological manipulation before violence 9:19 – Survivors describe exploitation and hopelessness 10:14 – The disturbing power of manipulation and control 11:12 – Survivor story: grooming into "family" and false protection 13:16 – From promises to violence: trapped in the life 15:00 – Survivor testimony: "something died in me" 16:05 – Why noticing matters: human trafficking as CPR training 16:50 – Building stronger communities that traffickers can't infiltrate 18:06 – Preview of next episode: Grooming and prevention

About this Episode: Human trafficking is happening in our communities, often hidden in plain sight. In this first episode of the Advocate Series, Francis Chan and others call the Church to step into the fight—grounded in Scripture, moved by compassion, and ready to act. Watch full series here.  [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZs7M6VL9t01xVcbEdMEsip&si=1wT7VbQh5BaoGUrg] Full Description: The Advocate Series is back—relaunched for the first time as a podcast and YouTube series. In this opening episode, pastor and author Francis Chan joins with survivors, advocates, and leaders to expose the heartbreaking reality of human trafficking in the United States—and to call the Church to respond with biblical conviction, compassion, and action. From the historical fight against slavery to today's battle against modern exploitation, this episode shines a light on both the darkness of trafficking and the hope we have in Christ to bring freedom and restoration. 🔔 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_3jPg4BtOSZI4ScnuIS7-4uBYh3LGaN9&si=6XBjlgEG5xeXmIVG] and join the mission to advocate hope for the hopeless. Timestamps: 0:00 – Content warning & introduction 2:14 – Historical perspective: Wilberforce and abolishing slavery 4:19 – Jesus' mission: proclaiming freedom for the oppressed 5:20 – Modern-day slavery: human trafficking in America 6:45 – The Church's calling: light in the darkness 8:14 – Survivor stories of abuse and exploitation 9:30 – Trafficking hidden in plain sight: schools, malls, churches 10:30 – Survivor testimony: betrayal and exploitation from loved ones 11:10 – Kevin Malone's story: from missions trip to anti-trafficking advocate 12:52 – A call to righteous anger and action in the Church 14:55 – The body of Christ: unique gifts, one mission 16:29 – Francis Chan on compassion as a gift from God 18:29 – Humility vs. pride in advocacy 18:51 – Closing prayer for love, humility, and action

We're re-launching our Advocate Series—for the first time ever—as a podcast and YouTube series starting October 9th, 2025. This 5-part study, led by author and pastor Francis Chan, dives into how the Church can biblically and practically confront the reality of human trafficking in America. Through Scripture, survivor stories, and urgent insights, this series explores: * The biblical call to defend the vulnerable and oppressed * The hidden but devastating reality of trafficking across the U.S. * How churches can move beyond awareness into bold action * Stories of healing, restoration, and hope through Christ This is more than a conversation—it's a call for the Body of Christ to rise up, engage, and be the hands and feet of Jesus in the fight against trafficking. Together, we can help bring freedom, justice, and redemption to those who need it most. After the 5 episodes have premiered, we will have 5 bonus episodes that we launched back in season 2 of our podcast (keep in mind that you can listen to those at any time) 📌 Subscribe to Trafficking Free America and join us in this urgent mission.

In this powerful final replay of our Safe Home Training Series, we shift from starting and running a safe home to how you can support one—as a volunteer, a donor, a church, a business, or simply someone who cares deeply about restoring lives from human trafficking. Host Jeremy Hicks is joined once again by Brandy Cristafulli, founder of Life Recaptured, for a heartfelt, honest, and incredibly practical conversation on what kind of help truly makes a difference—and why most safe homes can't survive without it. Whether you're wondering how to give, volunteer, network, or advocate for survivors—this episode is your step-by-step guide. ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome back: Let's talk about support 00:36 – "Yes, it's financial—but it's more than that" 01:22 – How Brandy built her network of dentists, surgeons, hospitals 03:20 – "I started at a veterans post"—you never know who will support you 04:54 – Why finding local professionals is crucial: dentists, optometrists, pharmacists 06:27 – Fun matters too—building safe, joyful experiences for survivors 07:29 – The role of churches and strategic partnerships 08:25 – A call to churches: reach out to 10 others about supporting a safe home 09:59 – Why safe homes need more than just volunteers—they need vetting, trust, and strategy 11:08 – How vetting and prayer create a trustworthy safe home 12:16 – What it takes to become a trained, approved volunteer 13:22 – Not everyone is ready to work directly with survivors—and that's okay 14:35 – Realities of trauma: why training, NDAs, and boundaries are non-negotiable 15:18 – Why many safe homes shut down: accusations, burnout, or lack of training 17:09 – "We've hung by a thread"—Brandy's honesty about funding struggles 18:22 – Brandy's dream: a safe home in every county in the U.S. 19:09 – "Trafficking is forgotten"—why we need more awareness AND more action 20:50 – We can't do this alone: collaborate, share, and scale together 21:54 – The 3-tier foundation that sustains a safe home: training, loyalty, and funding 💡 What You'll Learn * Support isn't always money—but safe homes cannot survive without it * Churches have a unique role in supporting and networking for safe homes * Vetted volunteers protect both survivors and themselves * Practical support like medical, dental, and over-the-counter supplies saves lives * Most safe homes close because of poor training or lack of sustainable funding * You CAN make a difference by building a network around an existing safe home 🎯 How to Take Action 1. Start the process of launching a safe home (get trained, get support, get wise) 2. Support an existing home like Life Recaptured—financially or practically 3. Pray for more homes, more resources, and more hope #SafeHomeSeries #TraffickingFreeAmerica #BrandyCristafulli #LifeRecaptured #USIAHT #SupportSafeHomes #EndHumanTrafficking #FaithInAction #SurvivorCare

In this replay of our Trafficking Free America Podcast, we go deep into the real-world structure, phases, and outcomes of what a safe home should truly accomplish for survivors of human trafficking. Host Jeremy Hicks sits down again with Brandy Cristafulli, founder of Life Recaptured, to talk about every step of the recovery journey—from intake to empowerment to independence. Brandy shares lessons learned, mistakes made, and the incredible power of consistent structure, compassionate boundaries, and trauma-informed care. If you want to start, support, or understand what a quality survivor-centered safe home looks like, this is your blueprint. 🌐 Learn More USIAHT: https://www.usiaht.org Life Recaptured: https://www.liferecaptured.org Become an Abolitionist: https://www.usiaht.org/give ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome back: The most detailed episode yet 01:22 – Brandy's journey of ongoing education and mistakes 02:12 – The hard truth: sometimes you must turn someone away 03:04 – What a safe home should be accomplishing at each phase 04:34 – Detox and assessment: when to say no 06:19 – Intake: learning family background, triggers, and trauma 08:14 – The cost of care: $225/hr for trauma-informed therapy 10:00 – Daily rhythm: structure, relationship, restoration 12:05 – From assessment to residential to empowerment 13:36 – How survivors reclaim power in the empowerment phase 14:19 – Independence: job, rent, responsibility, and tracking 15:18 – A restaurant and boutique run by survivors 17:14 – Dream boards, group service, and core values 19:08 – Why healing and discipline must happen together 21:01 – Real-world readiness: barcodes, brands, and resumes 23:45 – "I don't have a dream"—restoring purpose with joy 25:02 – Themed dinners and community-based healing 26:14 – Why safe homes must be long-term investments 27:17 – No one "ages out"—phases guide the pace 28:59 – "One girl is worth it"—don't measure success by numbers 29:55 – Exits: the hardest and most necessary part 32:01 – You can't save them all—but you must protect the house 36:42 – Why training, not just heart, keeps survivors safe 🎯 What You'll Learn * How to set up four clear recovery phases in a safe home * Why boundaries and structure matter more than emotion * The emotional toll of running a home — and how to survive it * What it means to graduate from a safe home (and when not to) * How Christ-like love includes discipline, exits, and grace * What it takes to build a community that restores lives 🎙 If this episode moved you, here's how to take action: ✅ Start training with an organization like Selah Freedom ✅ Support a safe home financially or with your skills ✅ Share this episode with your network ✅ Pray for and support survivor leaders and caregivers #SafeHomeSeries #TraffickingFreeAmerica #BrandyCristafulli #LifeRecaptured #USIAHT #EndHumanTrafficking #PodcastReplay #SurvivorCare #JeremyHicks #FaithInAction

In this replay of our Trafficking Free America Podcast, we continue our deep dive into what it truly takes to launch and sustain a safe home for survivors of human trafficking in the U.S. Host Jeremy Hicks is joined again by Brandy Cristafulli, founder of Life Recaptured, to unpack the critical importance of training, preparation, and partnership. This episode reveals why heart alone isn't enough — and how skipping essential preparation can actually do more harm than good. If you're considering opening a safe home or want to support one effectively, this conversation is essential. 🎧 Part 2 of our Safe Home Training Series 🌐 Learn more: https://www.usiaht.org 💙 Support Life Recaptured: https://www.liferecaptured.org ❤️ Become an Abolitionist: https://www.usiaht.org/give ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the replay: Why training is the most critical first step 00:36 – Brandy shares her early experiences with spiritual warfare 01:21 – The unseen cost of starting and running a safe home 02:12 – Who trained Brandy? The role of Selah Freedom 03:05 – How working with law enforcement changed everything 04:23 – The trauma survivors face — and why training saves lives 06:03 – "Don't do this without preparation" — advice from a seasoned pastor 07:08 – The financial and emotional cost of running a safe home 08:24 – The beauty of healing: Teaching music, finances, and dignity 09:53 – Core values and boundaries: How Life Recaptured maintains safety 10:46 – How the program phases work: From assessment to empowerment 12:25 – Why there's no time limit for healing 13:26 – Step one: Get trained by the right people (Selah Freedom and others) 14:12 – Collaborating with law enforcement, hospitals, courts, and schools 16:29 – Introducing the Tyler Court: A trauma-informed legal system 17:38 – Why many survivors say "no" at first — and how patience changes lives 19:00 – What it actually costs to run a safe home (and why support is vital) 22:24 – Building trust: From a secret location to national referrals 23:32 – USIAHT curriculum going into 69,000 students in Brevard County 25:12 – Is it worth $100,000 per survivor? Yes. And here's why. 28:05 – You don't work this by emotion—you work it by preparation 29:17 – The brutal truth: Most survivors in this home are from local families 💡 What You'll Learn * Training saves lives — compassion without preparation can be dangerous * Law enforcement & trauma care must be integrated from day one * $600,000 a year, 7 beds filled — why quality survivor care is expensive * Boundaries and phases make or break long-term survivor success * Most victims aren't kidnapped — they're trafficked by family or boyfriends * Collaboration is essential — from courts to schools to sheriffs 🎙 Want to support the mission? ✅ Like, comment, and share this episode ✅ Give monthly to a local safe home ✅ Start your training journey today with USIAHT & Selah Freedom #TraffickingFreeAmerica #ReplayEpisode #SafeHomeTraining #BrandyCristafulli #LifeRecaptured #USIAHT #HumanTraffickingAwareness #StartASafeHome #SurvivorCare #PodcastSeries #JeremyHicks

In this replay of our Trafficking Free America Podcast series, we return to a foundational conversation: What does it really take to start a safe home for trafficking survivors in the U.S.? Host Jeremy Hicks sits down with Brandy Cristafulli, founder of Life Recaptured, a safe home in East Volusia County, Florida. Brandy shares her powerful personal story, the five-year process it took to launch her safe home, and the non-negotiables around training, structure, and survivor-centered care that make a home truly "safe." Whether you're building a safe home, supporting one, or just starting to explore how you can help—this episode is for you. 🎧 Part 1 in our multi-episode Safe Home Training series 🔔 Subscribe for future episodes 🌐 Learn more: https://www.usiaht.org 💙 Support Life Recaptured: https://www.liferecaptured.org ❤️ Become an Abolitionist: https://www.usiaht.org/give ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the replay: "Starting and Supporting a Safe Home" 00:36 – Meet Brandy Cristafulli and the founding of Life Recaptured 01:03 – Her sister's tragic story and why this mission became personal 04:53 – "We didn't know what grooming was"—when trafficking hides in plain sight 06:17 – Training before action: why Brandy waited 5 years to launch 07:13 – A 92% success rate—what they learned from doing it the right way 08:00 – Good intentions can harm—training is not optional 09:08 – What a functioning safe home really looks like 10:56 – "You can't put a face on a predator"—why prevention is complex 11:49 – "No one heard us"—the emotional gap survivors face 13:27 – When there are no beds: the crisis in safe housing availability 15:05 – How Life Recaptured partners with law enforcement 17:31 – Staffing, advocacy training, and operational best practices 18:49 – First three survivors: stories of heartbreak, hope, and healing 23:29 – "Chains in the mind": understanding trauma's long shadow 26:00 – The healing process: detox, boundaries, therapy, dignity 28:29 – Preview of what's coming in Part 2 of the Safe Home series 💡 Key Lessons * Brandy's motivation was personal—her sister was trafficked and didn't survive * Training and timing are everything—this work cannot be rushed * There are fewer than 200 safe homes in the U.S. and demand far exceeds capacity * Survivors need boundaries, dignity, and structure—not just shelter * Even if you can't open a home, you can support one through funding, volunteering, and advocacy 🎙 Take Action ✅ Like, comment, and share this episode ✅ Connect with or support a safe home in your area ✅ Join USIAHT's mission to build a Trafficking Free America #TraffickingFreeAmerica #SafeHomes #BrandyCristafulli #LifeRecaptured #USIAHT #ReplayEpisode #SurvivorSupport #HumanTraffickingAwareness #StartASafeHome #TraumaInformedCare #JeremyHicks

In this bold and deeply personal solo episode, Oree Freeman confronts a dangerous and often overlooked reality: the glamorization of human trafficking and exploitation in music, media, and digital culture. Oree shares raw stories—from her own experience and what she sees online every day—about how glamor, money, and false empowerment are being used to draw young people into systems of abuse. She calls out how pop culture, social platforms, and "choice-based" narratives are influencing laws, funding, and public awareness—while ignoring the real, devastating cost. This is more than a conversation. It's a call to stop applauding the lie and start exposing the truth. 🔔 Subscribe for more hard but healing conversations 🌐 Learn more: https://www.usiaht.org ❤️ Become an Abolitionist: https://usiaht.org/donate/ ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Girls flashing money, kids watching, glamorizing exploitation 00:28 – What we're talking about: glamorization in music, film, social media 01:36 – How trafficking became a "hot topic" like other social issues 03:00 – Why victims weren't offered help—because it looked like a choice 03:40 – Growing up watching "pimp culture" in music videos 04:45 – Films focus on foreign abduction, not domestic street realities 05:41 – Why some stories aren't told—they're not "theatrical" enough 06:31 – OnlyFans and false freedom: it looks like choice, but it's not 07:33 – The audience is part of the problem—what we watch, fund, and like 08:47 – The lie of control: glamor, addiction, and indoctrination 10:00 – "Feet pics" and false empowerment—how it leads to bondage 11:04 – Girls glamorizing "the blade"—16-year-olds are watching 12:15 – What that lifestyle really led to: addiction, abuse, and emptiness 13:05 – Even hard-fought bills are being pushed back by glamorized narratives 14:43 – Oree's personal story: walking into her trafficker's house at 11 15:57 – The recruiting power of glamor: "I want that life" 16:47 – You may be recruiting someone, even unintentionally 17:50 – We need better media: ethical, truthful, unfiltered storytelling 18:53 – Oree's mom at age 9 wanted to be a prostitute—this is generational 19:44 – This isn't just about cages overseas—this is happening here 20:32 – A message to those who think they've "chosen" the lifestyle 21:07 – You are worthy. You are a treasure. Choose something better. 21:48 – Upcoming episodes will include voices with different perspectives 🔑 Key Takeaways * Glamor is being weaponized—and traffickers are not the only ones doing it * False freedom on platforms like OnlyFans often masks real exploitation * We need better stories, not just more content—truth-telling can save lives * You are accountable for what you watch, fund, and share * You are worth more than a lifestyle that glorifies trauma 🎧 If this episode made you think...✅ Like & comment your thoughts ✅ Share with someone who needs to hear the truth ✅ Join the movement—$15/month helps us reach the next generation Let's replace glamor with truth and build a Trafficking Free America together. #TraffickingFreeAmerica #OreeFreeman #SurvivorVoices #EndExploitation #USIAHT #GlamorizationKills #OnlyFansAwareness #AntiTrafficking #SurvivorLeadership #RealTalk

What does it truly take to be a survivor leader? In this heartfelt and unfiltered episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, we explore the raw truth behind leadership after trauma, featuring a powerful solo reflection from a survivor turned advocate and mentor. From the early days of toxic jobs and missed opportunities to hard-earned wisdom about accountability, grace, and healing—this episode is a blueprint for nonprofits, leaders, and anyone who wants to build safe spaces where survivors don't just heal—they lead. This is for the dreamers, the overcomers, and the ones still figuring it out. If you've ever asked, "How can I help survivors lead?" — start here. 🔗 Learn more or support the mission: https://www.usiaht.org ❤️ Become an Abolitionist: https://usiaht.org/donate/ ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Leadership starts with vulnerability and healing 00:29 – Welcome to the podcast: today's topic hits close to home 01:25 – What is a survivor leader, really? What do they need to thrive? 02:17 – You don't need a degree to lead—you need lived experience 03:20 – Becoming a servant leader starts with how you care for yourself 04:53 – The honesty of growing up while still carrying trauma 06:00 – When grace meets accountability: how employers helped me grow 07:15 – A probation officer's simple act that changed everything 08:52 – The Denny's job that gave me dignity and basic life skills 10:24 – Learning what healthy structure and family really looked like 12:00 – How lying to those who loved me led to consequences—and growth 13:46 – What every survivor needs more than a paycheck: mentorship 15:04 – Why healing must come before service work 16:36 – You don't have to lead like anyone else—just be faithful to your process 17:50 – SWOT yourself: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats 18:24 – Integrity, consistency, therapy, and the lifelong work of growth 19:46 – Final encouragement: Finish well. Pass the baton. You got this. 🙌 Key Takeaways: * Being a survivor leader isn't about perfection—it's about persistence * Healthy leadership is rooted in therapy, boundaries, mentorship, and truth * Nonprofits should build systems that empower—not just employ—survivors * Your healing journey is not a job description. It's a foundation. 🎧 Listen. Reflect. Equip. Whether you're a survivor, an ally, or a nonprofit leader, this conversation is a mirror and a map. Subscribe, share, and support to help us build a Trafficking Free America—together. #TraffickingFreeAmerica #SurvivorLeadership #HumanTrafficking #AntiTrafficking #HealingJourney #LeadershipAfterTrauma #USIAHT #Podcast

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, Morgan —a dedicated school counselor and former foster care social worker—shares her unique frontline perspective on identifying and supporting children vulnerable to human trafficking with Executive Director, Oree Freeman Morgan pulls back the curtain on what educators are seeing in schools every day, the systemic limitations they face, and how prevention curriculum and relationships with students can become life-saving tools. This episode is a must-watch for teachers, counselors, social workers, and anyone who wants to understand how trafficking can hide in plain sight. 🔗 Learn more at: https://www.usiaht.org 👇 Timestamps 00:00 – A story of hidden trafficking in plain sight 00:28 – Meet Morgan Hicks, school counselor and former social worker 01:42 – Social work vs. counseling: Two sides of the same fight 04:08 – How schools often see signs before social services do 05:15 – Florida's prevention gaps and mandated reporting challenges 06:06 – Safer, Smarter Kids: A prevention curriculum that works 08:54 – What happens after a student makes a disclosure? 11:01 – The frustrating disconnect between schools and CPS 14:02 – How school transfers can isolate vulnerable kids 16:05 – Vulnerability at home: where trafficking risks begin 18:34 – Signs to look for—even when there's no physical abuse 22:15 – How new students with trauma are (or aren't) identified 28:48 – The power of trusted adults and triangle relationships 33:08 – Personal story: A mom's advocacy for her own child 38:25 – Advice for counselors: Be present, be persistent, be relational 🧡 If you work in schools, social work, child welfare, or simply care about protecting kids—this one's for you. 📢 Subscribe, like, and share this episode to spread awareness. #HumanTrafficking #MorganHicks #SchoolCounselor #TraffickingFreeAmerica #USIAHT #Prevention #ChildProtection #EducationMatters

In this deeply personal and powerful episode of the Trafficking Free America Podcast, co-host Jeremy Hicks sits down with Oree  Freeman, the new Executive Director of the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking. A survivor-turned-national-advocate, Audrey opens up about her journey from trauma to healing—and her bold vision for transforming the anti-trafficking movement. They discuss Kevin Malone's transition to a federal role, the evolution of public understanding around trafficking, and what's next for the organization and this podcast. Oree lays out a roadmap for survivor leadership, trauma-informed training, and how YOU can get involved. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to join the mission of creating a Trafficking Free America. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – "You think I want to feel weak?" — Audrey gets real about the weight of reliving trauma 00:28 – Meet Oree Freeman: New Executive Director of USIAHT 01:44 – How Kevin & Marilyn Malone helped Oree go from survivor to servant leader 03:22 – Real relationships = real impact 05:06 – Building a championship team to end human trafficking 07:08 – The shift: from seeing trafficking as "too big" to something everyone can fight 08:26 – Kevin Malone joins HHS under RFK Jr. to advise on national trafficking strategy 10:36 – Oree's new vision: boots-on-the-ground + survivor-led leadership 16:21 – Why education must come before action 21:22 – 15 years ago: No language for "trafficking"—only "prostitution" 29:06 – Why we don't "rescue" survivors—we walk with them through restoration 50:16 – What is an "Abolitionist Supporter"? And how you can become one today 📣 Join the Movement: ✅ Become an Abolitionist Supporter: usiaht.org/abolitionists ✅ Subscribe for more survivor-led conversations and trainings ✅ Share this video to raise awareness and recruit others into the fight #HumanTrafficking #SurvivorLeadership #OreeFreeman #USIAHT #TraffickingFreeAmerica #AntiTrafficking #RestorationNotRescue #KevinMalone #RFKJr #AbolitionistMovement #EndHumanTrafficking #FaithAndFreedom #TraumaInformedCare #ChildProtection #PodcastHighlights #SurvivorVoices #FreedomFighters

In this powerful episode of the Trafficking Free America podcast, we dive deep into the controversial topic of "John School"—a court-mandated educational program for men caught purchasing sex. Our panel discusses why the traditional approach falls short and introduces an innovative alternative: John University, a trauma-informed, addiction recovery-based solution designed to address the root causes of sex buying.  We explore the science of sex addiction, brain scans of porn addicts, and the stories of recovery that show true change is possible. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about ending sexual exploitation and finding real solutions for human trafficking prevention.   🔗 Learn more and become an abolitionist: https://usiaht.org/abolitionists ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: What is John School? 01:07 - Understanding "Demand" and Its Role in Human Trafficking 02:00 - Why Addressing Sexual Addiction Is Crucial 03:15 - What Actually Happens in John School 05:25 - Introducing John University: A Trauma-Informed Solution 07:20 - Hearing from Survivors: Why Shame Doesn't Work 09:00 - Brain Scans: The Impact of Porn Addiction on Decision-Making 11:21 - Most Sex Buyers Are Addicts—Here's the Data 13:07 - Why Education Alone Isn't Enough 15:27 - How John University Works and Why It Matters 18:22 - Challenges Getting Court Recognition and Funding 25:11 - How Lawyers, Judges & Citizens Can Help Advocate for Change

In part two of our powerful conversation with Francis Chan and Kevin Malone, we explore one of the most critical questions facing the modern church: Will we rise to fight the evil of human trafficking? Francis and Kevin unpack what Scripture says about justice, why the church must care for the most vulnerable, and how every believer—regardless of title or role—can take meaningful action. With stories of transformation, honest frustration, and bold hope, this episode will challenge and inspire you. 🙏 Even prayer is action. Let this conversation be your invitation to begin. 📍 Join the movement at: https://usiaht.org/abolitionists ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Can the Church Actually Make a Difference? 02:19 – Francis on the Long-Term Impact of Church Advocacy 03:54 – Real Lives Changed: From Sermons to Action 05:50 – God Will Bless Churches That Care for the Vulnerable 07:08 – Are Today's Trafficked Kids Our Modern-Day Orphans? 09:10 – The Pressure on Pastors—and a Better Way Forward 10:22 – Why "Advocate" Empowers Ordinary Church Members 11:44 – Reaching the Next Generation Through Youth Ministry 12:55 – The Most Powerful Weapon: Prayer 14:14 – Out of Sight, Out of Mind: A Biblical Warning 16:26 – Building God's Kingdom Instead of Our Own 19:11 – Final Reflections: Why Long-Term Commitment Matters