The Survivors Voice

Episode 16, Taysia's story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.
Today we sit down with Taysia, a full-time mom and baker, whose journey through an abusive relationship, single motherhood, and starting over will leave you deeply moved. From experiencing emotional and physical abuse to courageously breaking free for her son’s safety, Taysia shares her incredible story of resilience, faith, and rebuilding her life through entrepreneurship and new love.
Your Host: Angie Sedore Our Guest: Taysia Matthias
Trigger Warning This episode includes discussions of domestic violence, substance abuse, emotional abuse, and child endangerment. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect: · Taysia’s upbringing and early signs of toxic relationship patterns · Surviving physical and emotional abuse during pregnancy and motherhood · The heartbreaking decision to leave for her child's safety · Building a new life through her baking business, Alani Bakery · Finding unexpected love and support after survival
Key Takeaways: · Believe people's actions the first time they show you who they are · There is a way out—even when it feels impossible · The importance of safe support systems and trusting your instincts · How taking one brave step can transform your life in ways you can’t yet imagine
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor: Safe Harbor — Providing safe, judgment-free support for survivors beginning again. https://safeharborforfreedom.com/
Stay Connected www.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
If Taysia’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.
New episodes every Tuesday.
Please follow our show, leave us a 5-star rating, and write a review!
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by Krystina Elder | (YouTube:) Elder House Media
Special Thanks to Dan Wise | (YouTube:) North Idaho Podcast Productions​

Episode 15, Malaina's story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.
Malaina was only 23 when her body started shutting down. What began as fatigue and brain fog escalated into stage four kidney failure, liver failure, and sepsis. In this powerful episode, Malena shares how unchecked alcoholism—masked by independence and a “normal” life—nearly killed her. She opens up about denial, medical trauma, body image, fear, and the radical shift that saved her life. Now sober and standing strong, Malena’s story is a raw, eye-opening reminder of how quickly life can unravel—and how much strength it takes to fight back.
 
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Malaina Castillo
 
Trigger Warning
This episode includes discussions of alcoholism, medical trauma, and depression. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
 
What to Expect:
Malaina’s near-death experience after rapid liver and kidney failure
The reality of high-functioning alcoholism in young adults
Medical trauma and life inside the ICU
How unprocessed emotions and denial masked a growing addiction
The emotional impact of sobriety, loss, and learning to live differently
 
Key Takeaways:
Sobriety is not just about quitting—it's about healing
Denial can delay life-saving help
Mental health is just as vital as physical health
Even when it feels too late, it’s not over yet
 
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:
Safe Harbor for Freedom exists to serve victims of human trafficking by providing secure housing, therapy, medical care, reintegration support, and awareness education.
www.safeharborforfreedom.com
 
Stay Connected
www.thesurvivorsvoice.net
@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X
 
If Malaina’s story moved you, please share this episode and help us bring awareness to hidden struggles and unseen strength.
If you enjoy the Survivors voice, please give us a follow and a 5 star rating!
New episodes every Tuesday.
 
Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
 
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
 
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder | YouTube: Elder House Media
Special Thanks to: Dan Wise | YouTube: North Idaho Podcast Productions​

Episode 14, Nate's story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.Nate is a survivor, justice warrior, and founder of The Innocent, a nonprofit equipping law enforcement to combat online predators. In this gripping episode, Nate shares how a gang abduction at gunpoint changed the course of his life—and how he turned his trauma into purpose. From surviving near-death in South Central LA to confronting child sacrifice overseas, Nate opens up about abuse, PTSD, faith, and the righteous anger that fuels his fight for children’s safety. This is more than a story—it’s a call to arms in the war for innocence.Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Nate LewisTrigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of child sexual abuse, kidnapping, trauma, and violence. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.What to Expect:· Nate’s harrowing story of being abducted during a gang initiation· How childhood abuse and silence shaped his early life· Building The Innocent to train law enforcement in proactive predator investigations· International work rescuing children from horrific abuse and ritual violence· Challenging social media platforms and empowering parents to take actionKey Takeaways:· Trauma can be transformed into fierce advocacy· Anger, when channeled, becomes a powerful force for good· Every community member can play a role in protecting children· Light wins when people refuse to look awayA Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe Harbor for Freedom exists to serve victims of human trafficking by providing secure housing, therapy, medical care, reintegration support, and awareness education.www.safeharborforfreedom.comStay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and XResources:Learn how to protect your community at www.theinnocent.orgYouTube: @theinnocent.children IG and Fb: theinnocent.usa
If Nate’s story inspired you, share this episode and take a stand for the children in your community. Please follow, give us a 5-star rating, and leave a review!New episodes every Tuesday.Do you have a story to share? Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.netTogether, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder | Elder House MediaSpecial Thanks to: Dan Wise | North Idaho Podcast Productions

Episode 13, Kathleen's story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.Kathleen story is a deeply moving account of grief, faith, and purpose. In this episode, she shares the tragic moment she witnessed a young boy’s death—and how that single event became a catalyst for healing not only in her life, but in the lives of countless others. Kathleen takes us from that heartbreaking afternoon to her calling in hospice care, her passion for GriefShare, and how Jesus became her anchor through every storm. This is a conversation about trauma, redemption, and what it truly means to show up for others in their darkest hours.
Your Host: Angie Sedore Our Guest: Kathleen Gianetti
Trigger WarningThis episode includes discussions of childhood death, grief, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:·The tragic accident that forever changed Kathleen’s life·Holding space for a grieving child and family in the aftermath of unimaginable loss·How grief touched every part of her life—and led to a powerful ministry of healing·A firsthand look at the beauty and pain of hospice care·The transformative power of faith, counseling, and community
Key Takeaways:·Healing happens when we bring pain into the light·Grief shared is grief softened—no one should walk through it alone·Our stories, even the hardest ones, can become someone else’s lifeline·God doesn’t waste a heartache—He redeems it
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe Harbor for Freedom exists to serve victims of human trafficking by providing secure housing options, intensive therapeutic services, acute and preventive medical assistance, reintegration resources, and community awareness through education.www.safeharborforfreedom.com
Stay Connectedwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net@TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X
SourcesDo you need help dealing with grief?Visit https://www.griefshare.org/ 
Please follow, give us a 5 star rating, and leave us a comment!
If Kathleen’s story moved you, please share this episode to remind someone they’re not alone.
New episodes every Tuesday.
If you have a story to share, we would like to offer you our platform to share your story. Contact: booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder | Elder House MediaSpecial Thanks to: Dan Wise | North Idaho Podcast Productions

Episode 11, Kim's story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.
Kim’s story is one of survival, self-discovery, and the long road to healing. Kim’s journey has been filled with challenges that forced her to confront pain, recognition, and self-worth. After years of carrying the weight of an experience she barely remembered, she finally faced the truth and began the healing process. In this episode, Kim shares the pivotal moments that led to her growth, how she overcame self-blame, and why she believes everything happens for a reason.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Kim VanGutman | IG: @kim.mie.berly
Trigger WarningThis episode discusses sensitive topics, including sexual assault, drinking and driving, and coercion. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:·Growing up in a complex family dynamic and overcoming childhood traumas ·The night that changed everything—grappling with memory loss and the unknown·The impact of trauma on relationships, self-worth, and personal choices·Facing addiction, hitting rock bottom, and the wake-up call that changed her path·Finding forgiveness, healing, and the strength to move forward
Key Takeaways:·Trauma affects everyone differently, and no one’s experience is "less valid" than another’s·Healing starts with acceptance and speaking your truth·Self-blame is a heavy burden, but the responsibility always lies with the perpetrator·Growth often comes from life’s hardest moments—embrace the lessons they bring
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsor:Safe Harbor for FreedomSafe Harbor exists to serve victims of human trafficking by providing secure housing options, intensive therapeutic services, acute and preventive medical assistance, reintegration resources, and community awareness through education.www.safeharborforfreedom.com
Stay Connected:www.thesurvivorsvoice.netYouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X: @TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast
If Kim’s story resonated with you, share this episode to spread awareness and inspire healing.
Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, and a review!
Do you have a story of survival and resilience to share? Contact us at booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net.
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder | Elder House MediaSpecial Thank You to: Dan Wise | North Idaho Podcast Productions

Episode 10, Kara’s Story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.
Kara’s journey is one of hidden struggles, self-discovery, and unconventional healing. From growing up in what seemed like a picture-perfect home to battling chronic anxiety and perfectionism, she spent years searching for answers. Through neurofeedback, holistic healing, and confronting generational trauma, she found the freedom she never knew was possible. In this episode, Kara shares her deeply personal story, the moment she realized something was wrong, and the life-changing breakthroughs that helped her heal.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Kara Libra (IG: @karalibra | TikTok: @karaelibra)
Trigger WarningThis episode discusses sensitive topics, including childhood trauma, mental health struggles, and religious indoctrination. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:·Growing up in a strict, high-achieving household and the hidden struggles beneath the surface·The first signs of anxiety at just five years old—and how it manifested throughout her life·The unconventional therapies that changed everything, from neurofeedback to emotion code healing·Breaking the cycle of generational trauma and reclaiming her future·Why healing is a lifelong journey, and how Cara is using her experience to help others
Key Takeaways:·Anxiety and depression often have deeper roots than we realize·Healing doesn’t always come in traditional forms—sometimes, the answer is outside the box·Breaking generational patterns starts with awareness and a commitment to change
A special thank you to our sponsor:
Safe Harbor for FreedomSafe Harbor exists to serve victims of human trafficking by providing secure housing options, intensive therapeutic services, acute and preventive medical assistance, reintegration resources, and community awareness through educationwww.safeharborforfreedom.com 
Resources:Neurofeedback Information: www.neuroptimal.com The Emotion Code by Dr. Bradley Nelson: AmazonSound Mind NW, Christa Krenz: (425) 231-4491
Stay Connected:www.thesurvivorsvoice.netYouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X: @TheSurvivorsVoicePodcast
If Kara’s story resonated with you, share this episode to spread awareness and inspire healing.
Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, and a review!
Do you have a story of survival and resilience to share? Contact us at booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net 
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder, Elder House MediaSpecial Thank You to: Dan Wise, Wise Media Studios

Episode 9, Brittany’s Story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.
Brittany’s story is one of survival, faith, and reclaiming her identity. From a childhood marked by loss and medical battles to enduring years of emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, she faced unimaginable hardship. When her world fell apart—her marriage, her health, and even her home—she turned to God in complete surrender. In this episode, Brittany shares her harrowing journey through betrayal, trauma, and ultimately, the strength she found in faith and community to rebuild a life of independence and purpose.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest: Brittany Rose | IG: @t_rose_brittany_
Trigger WarningThis episode discusses sensitive topics, including domestic abuse, sexual coercion, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:· Brittany’s childhood struggles with loss, trauma, and undiagnosed illness· How she unknowingly entered an abusive marriage and the slow realization of its impact· The moment she discovered her husband’s betrayal and how it shattered her world· The emotional and financial challenges of leaving and starting over as a single mom· How faith, therapy, and community support helped her rebuild a new life
Key Takeaways:· Abuse isn’t always obvious—it can be emotional, financial, and sexual· Healing begins when we surrender our brokenness and trust the process· You are stronger than you think, and there is hope beyond the pain
A special thank you to our sponsor:Safe Harbor for FreedomSafe Harbor exists to serve victims of human trafficking by providing secure housing options, intensive therapeutic services, acute and preventive medical assistance, reintegration resources, and community awareness through educationwww.safeharborforfreedom.com 
Stay Connected:If Brittany’s story resonated with you, share this episode to spread awareness and inspire hope.
www.thesurvivorsvoice.netYouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X: @thesurvivorsvoicepodcast
Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, and a review!
Do you have a story of survival and resilience to share? Contact us at booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder | @elderhousemediaSpecial Thank You to: Dan Wise | @wisemediastudios

Episode 8, Dan's story

Welcome to The Survivor’s Voice, where resilience meets hope.
Dan’s life took a drastic turn when he found himself entangled in a high-stakes world of prescription drug operations, unknowingly stepping into a federal indictment. From a childhood marked by instability to facing a 42-month federal prison sentence, his journey is one of hard lessons, resilience, and ultimately, transformation. In this episode, Dan shares his unfiltered story, the moment everything fell apart, and how prison became the unexpected catalyst for his redemption.
Your Host: Angie SedorOur Guest: Dan Wise
Trigger WarningThis episode discusses sensitive topics, including addiction, incarceration, and the criminal justice system. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:
A childhood shaped by financial instability, addiction, and survival
How chasing success led him into the center of a federal drug conspiracy
The shocking moment he was arrested and the reality of facing decades behind bars
His experience navigating the federal prison system—and the moment that changed everything
How prison led him to an unexpected career in helping others
Key Takeaways:
Even in your darkest moments, your story isn’t over
Accountability is the first step to real change
There is redemption in unexpected places—sometimes, even in prison
Resources:
Federal Prison Time Consulting: rdapdan.com
Stay Connected:www.thesurvivorsvoice.netYouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X: @thesurvivorsvoicepodcast
If you think Dan’s story is a powerful testimony, share this episode to spread awareness and inspire hope.
Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, and a review!
Do you have a story of survival and resilience to share? Contact us at booking@thesurvivorsvoice.net_________________________
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina ElderSpecial Thank you to : Dan Wise | Wise Media Studios

Episode 7, Kari's story

Kari’s life took a sharp turn when addiction, trauma, and homelessness threatened to destroy everything she held dear. From struggling with alcohol at 13 to surviving life on the streets, her journey is one of loss, resilience, and an unshakable will to fight for a better future. In this episode, Kari shares her raw, unfiltered story and the moments that changed her life.
Your Host: Angie SedoreOur Guest Name: KariWhat to Expect:The childhood struggles that planted the seeds of addictionTeenage pregnancy and the emotional toll it tookThe tragic accident that altered the course of her lifeHow she survived homelessness and addiction on the streetsHer journey to healing and the work she does now to help others
Trigger WarningThis episode discusses sensitive topics, including addiction, homelessness, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
What to Expect:The childhood struggles that planted the seeds of addictionTeenage pregnancy and the emotional toll it tookThe tragic accident that altered the course of her lifeHow she survived homelessness and addiction on the streetsHer journey to healing and the work she does now to help others
Key Takeaways:No matter how far you’ve fallen, redemption is possibleHealing from addiction takes more than sobriety—it takes real recoveryThe power of support, faith, and community in overcoming the past
Stay Connected:If you think Kari’s story is a powerful testimony, share this episode to spread awareness and inspire hope.
Resources:
Union Gospel Mission: [https://www.uniongospelmission.org/]
Please subscribe, leave a 5 star rating, and a review!
Do you have a story of survival and resilience to share? Contact us at booking@thesurvivorsvoice.netwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X: @thesurvivorsvoicepodcast
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder

Episode 6, Josie's story

In this episode of The Survivors Voice, we sit down with Josie, an executive director of a mental health residential facility. She shares her incredible journey from a childhood filled with trauma and adversity to a career dedicated to helping others heal. Josie opens up about her personal experiences with addiction, abuse, and resilience, offering inspiration and insight for those facing similar struggles.
Guest Name: Josie
Trigger Warning:This episode discusses sensitive topics related to childhood abuse, addiction, trauma, and mental health struggles. Listener discretion is advised. The views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.What to ExpectA childhood shaped by addiction, domestic violence, and instability.The emotional and physical impact of growing up in a chaotic environment.Finding purpose and healing through mental health work.The long-term effects of trauma and the journey to self-discovery.Advocacy for mental health awareness and support.
Key Takeaways:Your past does not define you—you can build a future of your own making.Seeking help and surrounding yourself with support can make a difference.Mental health struggles are ongoing, but healing and growth are possible.
Stay Connected:If Josie’s story resonated with you, share this episode to spread awareness and inspire hope.
Resources
Website: We Level Up Washington
Contact: 509-822-8448
Please subscribe, leave a 5 star rating, and a review!
Do you have a story of survival and resilience to share? Contact us at booking@thesurvivorsvoice.netwww.thesurvivorsvoice.net YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X: @thesurvivorsvoicepodcast
Together, we remind survivors everywhere: Your story matters.
Produced & Edited by: Krystina Elder