In this episode of the Voice 2 Change Podcast, our host Jocelyn Maminta interviews Dr. Shamina Aubuchon, the inspiring author of the children's book, "If You Touch, I'll Tell." Shamina, a courageous survivor of child sexual abuse, shares her journey and the powerful motivation behind becoming an author. Her book serves as an invaluable resource for educating children and parents about safety and prevention. Learn about the importance of empowering children to use their voices, the crucial role of parental guidance, and how to identify the warning signs of grooming.

Shamina Aubuchon is a dedicated advocate and author who channels her personal experiences into powerful narratives to raise awareness on sexual abuse. Born a survivor of child sexual abuse, Shamina found the courage and determination to address this pervasive problem through her writing. Shamina urges parents to discuss these uncomfortable topics and encourages children to use their voices.

Topics Discussed:

• Shamina's personal experience with child sexual abuse
• Inspiration behind writing the book
• The importance of speaking about difficult topics
• Finding the right age and methods to discuss such topics with children
• Importance of prevention, rather than cure
• Strategies for keeping children safe
• Empowering children through the book’s message
• Warning signs and behaviors to be wary of
• The importance of believing children when they disclose abuse
• Encouraging children to use their voice for protection

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Shamina's book 'If You Touch, I'll Tell'

Also available at ⁠ifyoutouchilltell.com⁠

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In this episode of the Voice 2 Change podcast by Jane Doe No More, we talk with Rachel Henderson about the Gail Burns Smith, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE) program in Connecticut. Rachel explains how the SAFE program provides a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to conducting medical forensic exams for sexual assault survivors. The conversation highlights the importance of the SAFE program in bridging healthcare and legal systems to support survivors, discussing how forensic nurses are trained, the challenges they face, and their impact in empowering survivors through choice and support. The episode also underscores the critical services provided by the Connecticut Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services, offering extensive support and resources for victims throughout their healing and legal journey.

Rachel Henderson is the response program manager for the Connecticut Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services, specifically for the Gail Burns Smith, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) program. With over a decade of emergency department nursing experience and 25 years of providing emergent patient care across the state, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role. She oversees 33 SAFE professionals who respond to eight hospitals and one student health center in central and eastern Connecticut.

Topics Discussed:

• Explanation of SAFE program
• Integration of law enforcement and healthcare systems
• Male nurses' challenges and patient comfort considerations
• Core of empathetic care
• Meeting patients where they are
• Empowering patient rights and choices
• Building rapport and collaboration with advocacy groups
• Role of forensic nurses in courtrooms and legal processes
• Noticing a gap in staff confidence for assault cases
• Effects of compassionate care on patient behavior

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In this episode of the Voice2Change podcast we discuss teen dating violence, featuring our special guest Brenda Harkavy, a former SVU prosecutor and experienced litigator. The discussion reveals that one in three teens experiences dating violence, with both physical and digital forms of abuse being prevalent. Harkavy explains various warning signs of teen dating violence, including excessive texting, controlling behavior, digital harassment, and isolation tactics.

The episode focuses on the importance of parents maintaining open communication with their teens about healthy relationships and the potential dangers of digital interactions. Brenda also talks about legal protections and resources for teens in abusive relationships.

Brenda Harkavy is an experienced litigator who has represented numerous survivors in cases involving institutional misconduact. She previously served as a Special Victims Unit (SVU) prosecutor, where she handled hundreds of teen dating violence cases in Baltimore City and other jurisdictions. During her time as an SVU prosecutor, she was actively involved in educating teens about dating violence by facilitating assemblies at local high schools. Topics Discussed:

• Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
• Signs and types of teen dating violence
• Importance of raising awareness about unhealthy relationships
• Statistics on teen dating violence in the U.S.
• Empowering teens to recognize signs of abuse
• Legal implications and potential for escalating behavior
• Legal Protections for Teens
• Educating children about their digital footprint
• Setting healthy boundaries and limits for internet use

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