Episodes

  • Ep.58 | In The Telling We Do Not Die with Risa Shaw

    Ep.58 | In The Telling We Do Not Die with Risa Shaw
    Oct 3 2024
    In this compelling episode, host Nancy Morris dives into a profound discussion with Dr. Risa Shaw, a trailblazer in the study of sibling sexual abuse (SSA). The episode centers around Risa's influential book, *Not Child's Play: An Anthology on Brother-Sister Incest*, and the transformative power of speaking out against abuse. Together, they uncover the societal stigma that shrouds SSA, the importance of sharing survivor stories, and the ongoing impact of these narratives on reducing isolation and fostering healing. Risa recounts the painstaking journey behind creating her anthology, which spans from its initial concept in 2000 to its updated second edition. The conversation extends to highlight the benefits and challenges of disclosure, emphasizing that speaking up is a highly transformative act that offers profound personal healing. They also share poignant stories from the book, notably those of Marian and Dorothy, sisters who only found the courage to speak about their abuse in their later years, showing that it's never too late to break the silence. This episode is a beacon for anyone seeking understanding or grappling with the difficulties of SSA. About Risa: Dr. Risa Shaw is a survivor of brother-sister incest. In her new preface of the second edition of Not Child's Play, she reveals the power of 40 years of truth-telling to address the abuse, shame, self-blame, self-hatred, and damage done not only to her, but to every survivor of sibling incest. Risa has never shied away from the challenge of telling truth to power and she intentionally finds ways to center and amplify the voices of those silenced by oppression and violence. She is an educator, leader, and activist, living her life outloud for nearly 45 years in the Washington, D.C. area. Risa shares her life with her wife of 37 years and a large beloved community. With the first edition of Not Child's Play in 2000 and now the publication of a second edition with a new Preface, Foreword, and Afterword, Risa has translated decades of hard, brave, and meaningful work into a means of healing both for herself and for her readers. Key Takeaways: * Importance of Speaking Out: Sharing one's story of sibling sexual abuse is a transformative act that reduces isolation and opens the door to healing. * Impact of Risa's Work: Dr. Shaw's book *Not Child's Play* remains pivotal in the discourse around SSA, being the only anthology of first-person accounts. * Generational Effects: Disclosing and addressing SSA can positively affect subsequent generations, promoting awareness and prevention. * Challenges of Disclosure: Survivors face societal and familial pushback, but overcoming these challenges leads to significant personal growth and empowerment. * Continued Advocacy: The ongoing conversation and research into SSA are essential for changing societal attitudes and supporting survivors. Notable Quotes: 1. "Speaking out was a transformative act; it changed their lives." 2. "By speaking up, we're not only doing it for ourselves, we're also doing it for everybody else in the family and in society." 3. "You can start by telling your story to a piece of paper or your teddy bear – just get it out." 4. "Bravery is contagious and speaking out leads to joy." 5. "Reading and giving people the book shows them that we need to talk about sibling sexual abuse. We have to believe the children." Resources: * Not Child's Play: An Anthology on Brother-Sister Incest (http://notchildsplaybook.com) - Official website to buy the book and learn more about Risa Shaw. * Risa Shaw's Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/risashawnotchildsplay) - Follow for updates on her work and advocacy. * Risa Shaw's Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/notchildsplayanthology) - Stay connected and informed through visual storytelling and updates. * Computer-generated transcript -https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dSQfVDHDFlGOY0spIpXgENBaOg1NklXM/view?usp=sharing Chapters 0:00 Exploring Sibling Sexual Abuse Through Stories and Research 4:49 The Importance of Storytelling in Understanding and Preventing SSA 7:55 The Journey of Sharing and Understanding Sibling Sexual Abuse 10:50 The Power and Pain of Speaking Up About Abuse 14:41 Breaking the Silence on Family and Societal Trauma 17:52 Teaching Consent and Boundaries Through Interactive Activities 18:47 The Transformative Power of Speaking Out Against Abuse 26:14 Understanding Power Dynamics in Relationships and Society 27:41 The Power of Sharing and Releasing Family Secrets 34:20 Marian and Dorothy's Lifelong Journey of Healing and Connection 38:53 The Impact of Sibling Sexual Abuse and the Importance of Disclosure 44:22 Healing Through Storytelling and Personal Growth 47:57 The Transformative Power of Speaking Out and Sharing Stories Listen to this valuable episode to gain deeper insights into sibling sexual abuse, the importance ...
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    52 mins
  • Ep.57 - What's Coming This Fall On The Podcast?

    Ep.57 - What's Coming This Fall On The Podcast?
    Sep 19 2024
    Nancy Morris is the host of the "SiblingsToo" podcast, dedicated to bringing awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding sibling sexual abuse (SSA). With a commitment to amplifying the voices of survivors, academics, and professionals, Nancy employs her platform to foster education, support, and meaningful conversations about the complex impacts of SSA on families and individuals. Episode Summary: In this captivating episode, Nancy delves into the upcoming projects and thematic shifts that will shape the podcast's future. The episode serves as an insightful guide on what listeners can expect as the conversation around sibling sexual abuse continues to evolve. Nancy underscores the introduction of Teagan McLaren's impactful song "Breaking the Silence" as the new audio and video anthem for the podcast, reinforcing the ongoing mission to break societal taboos. Entwining anecdotes from listeners and feedback from academics, Nancy shares her enthusiasm for the growing community of support and awareness surrounding SSA, emphasizing the critical role of storytelling in changing perceptions and aiding healing. Key Takeaways: • Reminder of Teagan McLaren's Song: The podcast will continue to feature "Breaking the Silence" by Teagan McLaren to encapsulate the podcast's mission and ethos. • New Messaging Initiatives: The podcast will introduce fresh messaging aimed at reducing societal and self-imposed stigma and giving voice to the voiceless across the family dynamic. • Upcoming Interviews: Future episodes will explore diverse perspectives, including international viewpoints and experiences from different family members affected by SSA. • Focus on Education: There's a significant push towards educating professionals, academics, and the public to bridge the knowledge gap regarding SSA. • Community Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts, stories, and suggestions to help shape the podcast and support those affected by SSA. Notable Quotes: • "Breaking the silence around sibling sexual abuse is why the 'SiblingsToo' podcast exists to begin with." • "I've heard from many academics, professionals, lived experience experts, family members...that the genie that is the secret of sibling sexual abuse will not be able to go back in the bottle." • "One of the ways to minimize stigma is to share knowledge, to share opportunities for education, to teach people some of the facts and outcomes and impacts of sibling sexual abuse." • "What happens now? Now that the genie is nice and fat, or getting fatter anyway, what do we do next?" • "I know this isn't necessarily a topic we want to be talking about, but we need to. And the more we do, the easier the conversation becomes." Resources: • Visit the "SiblingsToo" website • Follow the "SiblingsToo" project on Facebook and Instagram Stay tuned to the "SiblingsToo" podcast for more groundbreaking discussions and essential resources that not only foster awareness but also pave the way for effective prevention and intervention practices in sibling sexual abuse. Your participation and feedback are vital to continuing this important conversation. Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding, and join us in making sure the genie remains forever out of the bottle. Computer-generated transcript Ep.57 – What’s Coming This Fall On The Podcast Hosted by Nancy Morris of #SiblingsToo 0:00:01 - Well, it's great to be back in the #SiblingsToo podcast hosting chair the fall of 2024. And we're back. So I want to take a few minutes just to share with you some of what's coming up in the next few weeks and months with the #SiblingsToo podcast and project. A lot's actually going to be going on. There's going to be some new projects. There's going to be some new work being done with the stories that are being collected at the #SiblingsToo website. 0:00:31 - We're going to be using some of the information from those stories directly on the podcast to reinforce some of the messaging, and we're going to be changing some of the messaging. So there's going to be a lot going on in the next few weeks and months. One thing I wanted to check in with you, though, right now. Did you notice that Tegan McLaren's song Breaking the Silence is now introducing all of the siblings to podcast episodes? 0:01:00 - It will be the song that is used for everything that #SiblingsToo produces in audio format and even in video format as we go forward. As I mentioned in the podcast episode where I interviewed Tegan about the work that she did on the song, you know, I think it's such a great song. And the messaging is really important, not only for those who have survived sibling sexual abuse, but for the rest of the entire family. 0:01:29 - In fact, breaking the silence around sibling sexual abuse is why the #SiblingsToo podcast exists to begin with. So let's just keep working. Let's keep ...
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    15 mins
  • Ep.56 - The Next Phase of the #SiblingsToo Podcast

    Ep.56 - The Next Phase of the #SiblingsToo Podcast
    Jun 27 2024

    So much is going on!

    Here's a quick update about the SiblingsToo Podcast and the work going on behind the scenes.
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    5 mins
  • Ep.55 - A Family Journey Toward Justice and Healing after Sibling Sexual Abuse Disclosure (Part 2)

    Ep.55 - A Family Journey Toward Justice and Healing after Sibling Sexual Abuse Disclosure (Part 2)
    May 9 2024
    In a deeply moving follow-up to Episode 54, Heather shares her experience of confronting sibling sexual abuse within her family. The shocking revelation by Heather's daughter, Brooke, and the subsequent turning point—with her son admitting guilt—paints a raw and honest portrait of a family navigating the darkest of times. In the wake of Brooke's disclosure and the admission of sibling sexual abuse by her brother, Heather and Brooke face the arduous task of giving their impact statements for court, forced to give words and voice to the profound emotional toll the abuse has inflicted. As we listen to their statements and this follow-up discussion, we delve into the critical moments from the day Brooke courageously spoke up, through the family's initial reactions, to the ongoing legal proceedings that ripple through their lives. Heather's unwavering support for her children, her advocacy for appropriate justice and rehabilitation for her son, and the perseverance to heal as a family are all laid bare in this candid discussion. Key Takeaways: * Brooke's impact statement reveals years of suffering due to sibling sexual abuse, including mental torment and confusion about her sexuality. * Heather struggles with dual advocacy, seeking justice for Brooke while ensuring her son receives adequate treatment and rehabilitation. * The family undergoes immense emotional turmoil, with both children experiencing psychological breakdowns and hospitalizations after disclosure. * Heather's faith plays an integral role, granting her the strength to support her family through their darkest period. * The family's experience underscores the necessity for better handling of sibling sexual abuse cases within the legal system and broader societal change. Notable Quotes: * "My innocence was ripped from me due to his poor self-control and decisions and it wasn't fair." - Brooke * "My son destroyed our family bond, broke our family apart and caused what has felt like a death of both of my children." - Heather * "Trying to find a way to mostly advocate for the victim, my daughter, what she had been through, her feelings, five years of dealing with the abuse..." - Heather * "As much as we were trying to help both of our children, life had just become a disaster." - Heather * "I want people to know that certain things you feel have broken you to the core sometimes build you up to become that much stronger." - Heather Timestampts 1:24 Brooke's impact statement 5:48 A Mother's Plea for Justice and Healing 9:52 A Mother's Struggle With Sibling Sexual Abuse 13:27 Concerns Over Sex Offender Treatment and Sentencing 19:03 A Family's Crisis of Disclosure and Sexual Abuse 25:59 The Overwhelming Nature of Navigating the Judicial System 27:01 Finding Strength in Faith During Family Crisis 30:05 Strength, Self-Care, and Family Resilience 35:34 Families Embrace Healing and Advocacy After Trauma Would you like to support the #SiblingsToo Podcast --> buymeacoffee.com/siblingstoo 🖥 To connect with #SiblingsToo go to: Siblingstoo.com 📲 Facebook: fb.com/siblingstoo ➡️ Would you like to anonymously share your story of Sibling Sexual Abuse? Click Here ---> Share My Story
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    37 mins
  • Ep.54 - A Family Journey Toward Justice and Healing after Sibling Sexual Abuse Disclosure (Part 1)

    Ep.54 - A Family Journey Toward Justice and Healing after Sibling Sexual Abuse Disclosure (Part 1)
    May 2 2024
    In this profound episode of the #SiblingsToo podcast, we are introduced to Heather, John, and their daughter Brooke, a family united by the turmoil of sibling sexual abuse and united in their journey toward justice and healing. Heather and John, parents grappling with the revelations of their son's actions toward his sister, embody the resolve to advocate for both their children amid an undeniably complex emotional landscape. Brooke emerges as a beacon of courage and a voice for survivors, sharing her experience with clarity and a hope to inspire change. Episode Summary: The SiblingsToo podcast embarks on an emotionally charged dialogue as we delve into the critical issue of sibling sexual abuse and its ramifications on the family unit. This episode welcomes Heather, John, and Brooke, who bravely share their family's tumultuous journey after Brooke's disclosure of her older brother's sexual abuse towards her. Their story sheds light on the under-recognized epidemic of sibling sexual abuse and the journey towards justice and healing. Heather reveals the omnipresent danger technology poses in our children's lives, especially with the ease of accessing potentially harmful content like pornography. John shares his paternal struggle, anchored by his commitment to both his children, while Brooke illuminates her personal evolution, from survivor dealing with blame and shame to advocate for awareness and prevention. Together, they explore the complex intersection of familial dynamics, mental health, technology, and societal norms that often converge in cases of sibling sexual abuse. * The episode opens with Heather expressing concern for the overexposure of today's youth to content beyond their mental processing capacity. * The family discusses the influence of pornography on their son's behavior and the importance of open dialogues and preventative measures in family settings. * A powerful perspective shift occurs as Brooke underscores the necessity of reclaiming one's power as a survivor, advocating for both victims and abusers in the quest for healing. Key Takeaways: * Children are being exposed to more content, such as pornography, than their brains are ready to handle, influencing behavior in harmful ways. * The challenge of advocating for both the survivor and the abuser exists within the same family, emphasizing the unique dynamics present in sibling sexual abuse cases. * Parents should consider contracts, monitoring, and conversations about internet safety as preventative measures against the dangers of unfettered technological access. * Brooke, as a survivor, aims to push for educational change within the school system, advocating for personal space rules and anti-grooming information. * There is a possibility for family healing and reunification post-disclosure, with the prerequisite of respecting the survivor's timing and comfort. Notable Quotes: * "Children are seeing more than their brains are ready to handle." - Heather * "You should always hand the shame back to the abuser because if you don't, you're thinking it's your fault." - Brooke * "We need open conversations...educate our children more so on dangers of family. A family makes you feel uncomfortable. People need to know not to be scared to come forward." - Heather * "It's a sticky situation...it's totally upon Brooke on how she feels." - John * "Everything will be fine... eventually you will [find your voice] too." - Brooke Engage with the full episode to join Heather, John, and Brooke on their compelling journey through the complexities of sibling sexual abuse. Their heartfelt narrative and insightful reflections promise to enlighten and encourage listeners navigating similar paths. Stay tuned for more eye-opening content from the #SiblingsToo podcast. Timestamps: 0:00 The Family Confronts Sibling Sexual Abuse and Seeks Healing 4:09 The Impact of Pornography on Youth Behavior 7:59 Family Struggles With Teen's Secret Addictions 12:07 Protecting Children from Technology's Hidden Dangers 16:45 Confronting the Reality of Sibling Sexual Abuse 21:15 Praising Courageous Parenting and Judicial Intervention 22:34 Debating Age Restrictions for Technology and Pornography Access 24:16 Debating Cell Phone Use in Schools 27:32 Healing and Advocacy in Teen Mental Health 29:44 Empowering Youth with Body Safety and Anti-Grooming Education 31:58 Addressing Mental Health in the Judicial System 36:42 Parental Conflict in Advocating for Both Victim and Perpetrator 38:32 Addressing Pornography's Impact on Youth and Societal Norms 41:05 Family Healing and Advocacy After Abuse Would you like to support the #SiblingsToo Podcast --> buymeacoffee.com/siblingstoo 🖥 To connect with #SiblingsToo go to: Siblingstoo.com 📲 Facebook: fb.com/siblingstoo ➡️ Would you like to anonymously share your story of Sibling Sexual Abuse? ...
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    45 mins
  • Ep.53 - Decca Aitkenhead - A Journalist's Journey of Reporting on SSA

    Ep.53 - Decca Aitkenhead - A Journalist's Journey of Reporting on SSA
    Mar 21 2024
    In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of the #SiblingsToo podcast, Decca Aitkenhead and host Nancy Morris delve into the underreported and deeply complex issue of sibling sexual abuse (SSA). The conversation provides an insightful exploration into Decca's journey to write a major article for The Sunday Times in the UK, addressing a subject that often goes unnoticed by the public and media alike. With a commitment to shedding light on this taboo topic, Decca and Nancy discuss the obstacles and responsibilities that come with bringing such personal, intimate stories to a wider audience. The episode reveals the troubling silence surrounding SSA in mainstream media and highlights the urgency of informing parents, families and, importantly, society about SSA and how it can impact all of our lives. Decca shares the emotionally charged process of listening to survivors' experiences, the challenges in reporting on a subject with significant legal and social implications, and the overarching goal of sparking a national dialogue that can no longer be ignored. Insightful, raw, and unwaveringly honest, these show notes invite readers to fully grasp the magnitude of the problem and the need for immediate attention and action. About the Guest: Decca Aitkenhead is an award-winning journalist known for her role as the chief interviewer of The Sunday Times in the UK. With a career spanning three decades, Aitkenhead has become one of the leading names in journalism, interviewing a diverse range of prominent figures from the fields of politics, sport, culture, media, and the arts. Her expertise and dedication to uncovering compelling human stories have positioned her as a respected voice in the British media landscape. Key Takeaways: The 'ick factor' and legal complexities contribute to the collective media silence on SSA.Parents and families must be aware of the dynamics within their household to prevent and address abuse.Survivors of SSA carry the emotional burden of their experiences, with disclosure often leading to a tumultuous yet liberating journey.The debate on terminology (perpetrator/victim versus child who harmed/child who was harmed) reflects the struggle to adequately frame and respond to SSA within society. Notable Quotes from Decca: "Even more crucially, you could argue you want parents of children in their care today to read this article and think, 'Christ, I mean, there's no reason to think that couldn't happen in our family. I should be paying attention'.""It's the absolute ick factor journalists don't want to cover this story. It's kind of grim. People don't want to think about it.""The product of the school of thought, which feels that we must recognize that they were all children, and to some extent, they're all victims, is that they don't want to use the word perpetrator and victim.""If one parent reads this and pays attention and it means that it doesn't happen to their kids, then maybe that really is the ultimate change in this situation." Resources: The Sunday Times article - www.thetimes.co.uhttps://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/revealed-the-hidden-crime-of-sibling-sexual-abuse-z05cf0l8rMore on Decca - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decca_Aitkenhead Tune in to this significant episode of #SiblingsToo featuring Decca Aitkenhead, for a deep dive into sibling sexual abuse's harsh realities. Do not miss the full discussion for a comprehensive understanding and join us as we continue to bring light to these critical and pressing matters in upcoming content. Chapters: 0:01:25 Decca's motivation to write about sibling sexual abuse 0:04:49 Legal implications and challenges of reporting on sibling sexual abuse 0:07:11 The silence surrounding sibling sexual abuse speaks to societal stigma 0:11:11 Challenges faced by victims in telling their stories without a criminal conviction 0:16:27 The awareness and resources on sibling sexual abuse have increased in recent years, indicating a potential tipping point. 0:22:16 The process of researching for the article involved speaking with academics, professionals, and individuals with lived experience. 0:27:43 The privilege and responsibility of telling these stories 0:37:04 Parents need to be aware and talk about sibling sexual abuse. 0:43:25 Sibling sexual abuse should be seen as a public health issue, not just a criminal justice issue. 0:48:48 Simple steps parents can take to protect their children. 0:54:19 The potential impact of the article on survivors and their healing process
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Ep.52 - Adam, a perpetrator of sibling sexual abuse, shares his story (masked voice)

    Ep.52 - Adam, a perpetrator of sibling sexual abuse, shares his story (masked voice)
    Mar 14 2024
    In an eye-opening episode of the #SiblingsToo podcast, host Nancy Morris engages in an intense and revealing conversation with two guests: therapist Brad Watts and Adam, someone who has acknowledged causing sexual harm to a sibling. The discussion delves into Adam's personal reflections on his actions, the family dynamics, and the resulting implications within the justice system. The episode presents a juxtaposed narrative of regret and healing, secrecy and disclosure, challenging societal perceptions of sibling sexual abuse. Initially, Adam recounts his childhood experiences, including how early exposure to pornography influenced his behavior. The conversation then progresses into Adam's acknowledgment of the harm caused to his sibling and the subsequent emotional and legal fallout. The episode also highlights the stigma associated with sibling sexual abuse and the varying paths of healing for both the harmed and the one causing harm. Therapist Brad Watts provides a professional lens, contextualizing Adam's experience within broader themes of treatment and recovery from sexual abuse. About the Guests: Adam admits to perpetrating sexual harm towards his sister. He is navigating both the therapeutic process and the juvenile justice system in the United States. Although specifics about his history and achievements are not disclosed to protect both his and his siblings' anonymity, Adam's participation in the podcast signifies his intention to contribute to the dialogue around sibling sexual abuse and his personal journey towards understanding and rehabilitation. His voice has also been altered. Brad Watts, a long-standing friend of the #SiblingsToo podcast, is a therapist specializing in sibling sexual abuse. He is an author, having penned the book "Sibling Sexual Abuse: A Guide to Confronting America's Silent Epidemic". He regularly conducts training throughout the United States to educate and inform others on this issue. Brad provides his expertise to the discussion with Adam, offering insights into the therapeutic aspects surrounding such cases. Key Takeaways: • Adam's early exposure to pornography planted the seeds leading to sibling sexual abuse, a common factor in such cases. • Exposure to media portraying the consequences of sexual abuse prompted Adam to cease the abusive behavior and reflect on the gravity of his actions. • Adam experienced significant legal repercussions and family upheaval, with a lasting impact on his future opportunities. • The podcast emphasizes the complexity of healing for both survivors and perpetrators, as well as the important role of therapy and family support. • The episode underscores the importance of open dialogue and the need for society to address sibling sexual abuse with compassion and understanding. Notable Quotes: • "This is a secret I was going to keep to my grave, and I feel bad for that. That was really... I can't even describe how I feel about it. Just disgusted." - Adam • "And so I think it is important for it to come out so that there can healing begin." - Adam • "If you've got this big, huge wound, which is definitely SSA, just putting an ace bandage over it...eventually without disinfecting it... it's not going to be cleaned and healed, it's going to get gangrene, it's going to fester." - Adam • "My goal is to live a normal life, buy a house, get married, have some kids." - Adam • "Sometimes it's going to hurt a lot before the healing happens." - Adam Resources: Brad's book – Sibling Sexual Abuse: A Guide to Confronting America's Silent Epidemic" is available online at your favorite retailer. We hope this episode provides you with insights into the rarely spoken-about issue of sibling sexual abuse and the multifaceted effects it has on the involved individuals and their families. Please join us for the full episode to understand the complete narrative and stay tuned for more enlightening content from #SiblingsToo podcast. Chapters: 04:09 Description of Adam's family life and homeschooling 10:37 Adam's addiction to pornography and constant search for access 15:56 Normal roughhousing turning into manipulation 26:48 Adam's conversation with his father and disclosure to the authorities 36:18 The non-linear process of healing for survivors 42:01 Nancy asks Adam about his response to people who think he should pay the price for his actions 47:27 Brad shares his thoughts on supporting both survivors and those who commit sexual harm 54:16 Adam discusses the importance of sharing his story and letting others know they are not alone
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    56 mins
  • Ep.51 - The Making of 'Breaking the Silence' with Teagan McLaren

    Ep.51 - The Making of 'Breaking the Silence' with Teagan McLaren
    Feb 22 2024
    In this remarkable episode, we are joined by the brilliant Teagan McLaren who brings a profound sense of connection through her music. The conversation revolves around the liberation that comes from expressing ourselves and the encouragement Teagan's latest song provides to those who are navigating their own challenging experiences. The exchange highlights the transformative power of sharing our stories and the emotional resonance that music, like Teagan's, can deliver.   From the rich conversations that led to the songwriting process to the meaningful interactions with fans, this episode dives into the making of Teagan's song "Breaking the Silence." Highlighting significant discussions around sibling sexual abuse (SSA) and the universal theme of overcoming trauma, the episode carries an inspiring message of hope and empowerment. Teagan's insights bring depth to the understanding of how music can be both a personal cathartic journey and a catalyst for broader societal awareness, encouraging us to voice our stories to enact change.   Key Takeaways: - After meeting Teagan McLaren at a networking event in 2019, Nancy commissioned her to craft an uplifting song that would connect with and inspire listeners, especially those affected by sibling sexual abuse and other traumas. From that meeting came "Breaking the Silence" which captures personal narratives and the struggle to overcome silence. - Despite not having experienced sibling sexual abuse personally, Teagan drew from her own life traumas and empathic understanding to create a song that resonates. - The song's universal appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of shared human experiences, encouraging listeners to break their silence and join a collective wave of awareness. - Teagan hopes the song will empower individuals to speak out, move forward from their past traumas, and realize that they are not alone in their experiences.   In this episode: 0:00:00 Teagan wants people to feel connected and empowered by her song. 0:01:12 Nancy shares her first impression of Teagan's music and their initial meeting. 0:03:02 Nancy commissions Teagan to write a song for the #SiblingsToo podcast. 0:04:24 Teagan starts writing the song, focusing on the theme of breaking the silence. 0:09:33 The stop-start process of completing the song was beneficial for Teagan's songwriting. 0:11:47 Teagan's empathetic nature allows her to connect with the emotions of others' stories. 0:13:21 Teagan connects her personal experiences with trauma to Nancy's story 0:14:11 Nancy discusses the importance of breaking the silence and how it can help others 0:16:50 Teagan shares a story of a friend who opened up about their trauma after hearing the song 0:18:11 Nancy talks about the impact of the song and how it resonates with survivors of different traumas 0:20:06 Teagan expresses her struggle with performing the song live and finding the right delivery 0:23:32 Nancy praises the lyrics of the song, particularly verse three, and its message of letting go of self-blame 0:25:26 Teagan discusses the creative choices she made in the song to emphasize certain lyrics 0:26:04 Nancy discusses the commonality of trauma and the impact it has on individuals. 0:28:10 Nancy asks Teagan what she would like to see the song achieve. 0:29:07 Teagan hopes the song will encourage people to speak up about their experiences and seek support. 0:29:59 Nancy and Teagan discuss the importance of connecting with others through music and how it can help people feel less alone. 0:30:58 Teagan explains her approach to songwriting and how she aims to create songs that resonate with a wide audience. 0:32:33 Teagan shares a personal story about a song she wrote that had a different meaning for someone else, highlighting the power of interpretation. 0:35:10 Nancy expresses her appreciation for the song and how it helps her communicate her experiences to others, including her husband. 0:36:32 Teagan shares her hope that the song will resonate with and help others who have experienced trauma. 0:37:27 Nancy thanks Teagan for her work on the song and believes it will be well-received by her audience. 0:39:53 Breaking The Silence – full version   Notable Quotes:   - "It's so liberating to feel like you're not alone, to know that you're not alone." - Teagan McLaren - "It's all about breaking the silence about sibling sexual abuse." - Teagan reflecting the podcast host's mission - "I barely remember before the walls were built." - A key lyric capturing the impact of traumatic experiences - "I'm breaking the silence coming off of my island and joining in the rising tide." - Lyrics symbolizing the act of reaching out and healing - "Too long I blamed myself... nothing I could have done would have changed a thing." - Expressing a turning point of self-forgiveness in overcoming trauma     Resources: - Teagan McLaren's website: [www.teaganmclaren.com](http://www.teaganmclaren.com) - Lyric video of Breaking the Silence...
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    43 mins