Consider Before Consuming

Laila Mickelwait, an anti-trafficking activist and founder of the Justice Defense Fund, passionately discusses her fight against sex trafficking and illegal content on Pornhub. She shares alarming revelations about the exploitation facilitated by the platform and highlights grassroots efforts like the #TraffickingHub movement. Laila emphasizes the need for public support to bring systemic change, while exposing the challenges faced by advocates and the importance of holding corporations accountable for unethical practices.

*Trigger Warning: This episode contains brief discussions of sexual violence. Listener discretion is advised.Miyo Strong is the director of The Elizabeth Smart Foundation's self-defense program, Smart Defense. As a mom of two daughters, Miyo began training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and other martial arts. She joins us for this Consider Before Consuming Podcast episode to share about Smart Defense's unique, trauma-informed approach, combining physical techniques and breathwork with education on sexual violence, consent, and self-worth.Episode ResourcesArticle: How Porn Can Promote Sexual ViolencePodcast: Consider Before Consuming Ep.89: Elizabeth SmartSmart DefenseUtah Coalition Against Sexual Assault (UCASA)Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel VanDerKolkBook: The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker.

Chris McKenna is the Founder and CEO of Protect Young Eyes, which exists to help create safer digital environments. As a child, Chris was exposed to pornography, and as an adult, he realized how many problems there were with digital spaces and wanted to find a solution to that.In this episode, Chris helps us understand the importance of both having relational connections and technical controls when parenting in the digital age. He underlines the importance of having open conversations about pornography with children to reduce shame and secrecy, stressing the significance of addressing these issues from a young age.Episode ResourcesProtect Young EyesFight the New Drug's Parenting ResourcesConversation BlueprintArticle: Discover the 2024 “Dirty Dozen” Companies Profiting from Sexual ExploitationJonathan Haidt's Book: The Anxious Generation

Dawn Hawkins, CEO of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, discusses the impact of AI technology on sexual exploitation. Topics include AI-generated content, the normalization of sexual harm, and the urgent need for reform. The episode emphasizes advocating for policy changes, holding corporations accountable, and utilizing AI tools for online protection and law enforcement support.

A panel of young adults discuss sexual exploitation, social media's influence, and challenges in modern dating. They share personal stories of human trafficking, assault, and porn consumption. Topics include generational differences, online safety, and the impact of internet culture on relationships. The conversation highlights the need for awareness, communication, and combating harmful norms in youth culture.

Victoria Sinis, former OnlyFans recruiter, shares insights on the coercive realities of the platform and the challenges faced by performers. Topics include the complexities of OnlyFans, struggles of ex-porn performers in finding work, misconceptions vs. realities, effects of pornography consumption on objectification, and promoting self-reflection to combat harmful content consumption.

Join us in this Consider Before Consuming episode as Rachel Denton shares her experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Rachel talks about the complex layers of pornography addiction and the strong influence of shame. She'll also explain how self-compassion is essential in navigating the labyrinth of shame and breaking free from its grasp. Rachel provides valuable insights into the process of seeking therapy, explaining different therapy modalities, and how each can be helpful in the journey to healing. She also shares some transformative practices outside of therapy, empowering individuals to reclaim their agency and cultivate resilience.Episode ResourcesArticle: These 4 Studies Show How Recovering From a Porn Habit is Absolutely PossiblePodcast: Consider Before Consuming Ep. 110: Matthias J. BarkerKristin Neff: Self-compassion.org

Ralphie Jacobs is the founder of Simply on Purpose, a platform focused on positive parenting. She brings her expertise to this conversation, emphasizing the importance of connecting with children in today’s fast-paced digital age, offering tips for parents to ensure strong bonds with their kids, and encouraging parents to strike a balance between freedom and boundaries.Episode ResourcesVisit: Simply on PurposeArticle: Teens Who Have Good Relationships with Their Parents Tend to Avoid Porn and Sext LessPodcast: Consider Before Consuming Ep. 99: Kristy McVee

Robert’s porn consumption escalated into an addiction while he was in the military. In this episode, Robert shares how the culture of pornography in the military had a profound impact on his consumption habits. He also talks about how pornography affected his relationships and personal well-being. After realizing the negative effects of his addiction, Robert made the decision to quit pornography and is now well on the path to recovery. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support and encourages others to explore their own emotions as a starting point for overcoming addiction.Episode ResourcesArticle: Your Answer Guide to “What Does Porn Kills Love Mean?” and Other Fighter Gear QuestionsArticle: Benefits of Quitting Porn According to 90 Real PeoplePodcast: Consider Before Consuming, Ep. 110: John Foubert

Bailey shares her harrowing journey of porn addiction stemming from a toxic relationship, highlighting the need to address the normalization of pornography. The discussion explores the impact of porn on relationships, the importance of recognizing abuse, and advocating for change in societal views towards porn consumption.