Episodes
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Join us as Caroline talks with Harriet Wistrich, solicitor and Founder of the Centre for Women's Justice, about her journey into law and feminism. Harriet shares her thoughts about the systemic failures of the criminal justice system in addressing violence against women, the importance of police accountability, and the legal challenges faced by women in abusive relationships. Discover the vital work of the Justice for Women campaign and learn how myths surrounding domestic violence impact societal perceptions. This episode supports advocacy for women's rights.
Sister in Law: Fighting for Justice in a System Designed by Men - BOOK2024Police Perpetrated Domestic Abuse – has anything changed? Systemic failures continue and victim/survivor confidence remains disturbingly low -
In this conversation, Caroline and Sue Penna, author of The Recovery Toolkit, discuss the complex realities of domestic abuse, trauma, and recovery. Sue shares both her personal journey and professional experience, having spent over 20 years in NHS Mental Health Services, to emphasise the importance of trauma-informed care. They explore the need for systemic change to better support survivors and the powerful role language plays in shaping our understanding of trauma and recovery.
The conversation highlights the impact of trauma on mental health, the feminist movement's advocacy for change, and the importance of improved police training to address domestic abuse. Sue also details the fragility of stability in the lives of those affected by abuse and underscores the importance of innovative, supportive approaches.
Resources:
The Recovery Toolkit - A 12-week plan to support your journey from domestic abuse Rock Pool - Committed to training front-line workers in trauma-informed care -
Missing episodes?
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In this episode, JoJo Kirtley, founder of Workie Ticket Theatre, shares her journey from a youth worker and teacher to an influential figure in theatre for social change. She discusses working in collaboration with local universities and the challenges faced by women in the family court system, the importance of engaging young people in discussions about misogyny, and her commitment to preserving women's stories through theatre. JoJo emphasises the need for equity in feminism and the importance of honest conversations about gender-based violence. She also reflects on her individual experiences and aspirations for the future, including her exploration in global approaches to better managing gender-based violence through theatre.
Learn more here Workie Ticket Theatre CIC
The wrong type Walk the line Her primal scream, winning 2** awards! Heritage (new) -
In this episode host Caroline Saul sits down with El, co-founder of Let's Talk About X, to explore the essential topics of consent education and LGBTIQA+ inclusion. El shares their journey from high school teachers to advocates, highlighting the need for a cultural shift in how globally we teach young people about sex, consent and inclusivity. They discuss Australia’s move towards affirmative consent laws, the importance of gender-neutral language in education, and the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTIQA+ community. Tune in for an engaging conversation that inspires and encourages change and greater understanding about how to use consent.
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In this episode, Caroline engages with Kathleen, a LA Clinical Social Worker and faculty at Stony Brook University teaching trauma courses and has a long standing course on child and adult sexual violence and long term acute and long term sequela.
Together they discuss the issues of strangulation. Kathleen explains that a perpetrator’s remorse does not diminish the gravity of their actions and the seriousness of this crime. Kathleen invites you to read the research of Gail Strach and George McLean, who have established guidelines for investigating strangulation cases.
Furthermore, Kathleen calls attention to the significant need for further research into the neurological effects of strangulation on victims, emphasising the urgency of understanding these impacts for later life, and the development of dementia in victims.
Content note: "Please be mindful of your emotional well-being during this session, as we will cover sensitive topics related to strangulation, its impacts, and dynamics, including intersections with other crimes."
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In this episode of Dangerous Liaisons, host Caroline Saul interviews Aoife Gaffney, a renowned money and divorce coach from Ireland, to discuss her inspiring journey and transformative coaching practice. Aoife shares insights on financial independence for women, the importance of setting boundaries around money, and how mindset plays a critical role in overcoming financial struggles. She also discusses NLP, EFT, which can support women through these life transitions. Aoife asks you to support Hopeful Handbags initiative, which donates handbags filled with essentials to women in need, you can fill these bags with anything you feel women fleeing domestic violence and abuse may need - makeup,
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In this episode, we have the honour of hearing from Lynn, a survivor who bravely shares her experience of intimate partner abuse, stalking, rape, and reproductive coercion. Lynn opens up about the intense emotional challenges she faced, navigating a relationship defined by control, fear, and incredibly difficult choices about her body and her future. This conversation is raw and honest, touching on the complexities of survival and the resilience it takes to reclaim your life after trauma.
Content Note:
You may find these topics distressing, triggering or emotionally challenging. If you know that you are likely to find this content challenging, then please consider carefully how you might want to engage with it.
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In this heart-led episode of Dangerous Liaisons, host Caroline Saul welcomes Rie Pearson, a retired police officer and dedicated advocate for domestic abuse awareness.
Together, they explore the important topics of recognising and addressing domestic violence. Rie shares her experiences from her career in law enforcement and talks about her book where she shares five experiences from women, which helps people understand or recognise red flags in relationships. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by victims of abuse and the crucial role of supporting and believing those who reach out. They also talk about the escalation of violence against women and girls and the importance of better media representation that avoids stereotypes and victim-blaming.
The episode addresses the difficulties of leaving abusive relationships, the significance of emotional resilience and self-care, and Rie’s inspiring WOW Festival vision and to have her ABC program included in school curriculums to educate young people about abuse.
Join us for a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about the need for awareness, education, and support in tackling domestic abuse.
Resources Mentioned
Learn more about Rie’s educational initiative aimed at preventing domestic abuse. The ABC Program
A resource for survivors of domestic abuse to find support and empowerment. Find Your VoicePractical tips on identifying potentially abusive behaviours early in relationships. Recognising Red Flags In Dating!
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Content Warning: This podcast contains discussions of animal cruelty, sexual violence, and baby loss, which some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised.
Your host https://carolinesaul.com/ gave a talk at the Northumbria Stalking Interventions Programme Launch, sharing her personal experiences as a stalking victim and survivor.
She emphasised the importance of understanding the unspoken needs and concerns of victims, as well as the dismissive attitudes and biases they often encounter from Police officers.
Caroline highlighted missing people statistics and the need for a comprehensive trauma informed approach to stalking cases, recognising their sporadic and historic nature. She discussed the impact of isolation and the challenges faced in rural areas with limited access to emergency services.
Caroline called for greater awareness, compassion, and connection to support stalking victims and survivors. -
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of stranger stalking, sexual violence references, and explicit descriptions of a sex room. Listener discretion is advised.Ann Moulds, founder of Action Against Stalking, shares her personal experience of being a victim of stalking and the flaws in the criminal justice system. She highlights the lack of recognition and support for stalking victims and the dismissive attitudes of the police.
Ann's advocacy led to the introduction of stalking as a distinct and standalone crime in Scotland and other European countries. She emphasises the importance of victim impact and trauma-informed approaches in addressing stalking.
Ann's work included training law enforcement, raising awareness, and providing support to stalking victims. The conversation explores the different types of stalking and challenges the misconception that stalking is solely related to domestic abuse. It highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of stalking and the importance of separating it from domestic violence. The guests discuss the need for a unified approach to stalking laws and the importance of empowering victims to speak out and seek support. They also address the myths surrounding stalking, including the idea that it only occurs in ex-partner relationships. The conversation concludes with a call to action to create a safer environment for women and to raise awareness about stalking.
Takeaways
Stalking is a psychological crime that causes significant harm to victims, including psychological, physical, and social effects. Victims of stalking often face dismissive attitudes from the police and a lack of support from the criminal justice system. Advocacy and raising awareness are crucial in bringing about change and recognition for stalking victims. The introduction of stalking as a distinct and standalone crime in legislation is a significant step towards addressing the issue. A trauma-informed approach and victim impact should be prioritised in addressing stalking cases. Stalking is not limited to domestic abuse and can occur in various contexts, including stranger stalking and stalking by family members, friends, work colleagues or acquaintances. There is a need for a unified approach to stalking laws to ensure consistency and effectiveness across different jurisdictions. Empowering victims to speak out and seek support is crucial in addressing stalking and holding perpetrators accountable. It is important to challenge myths and misconceptions about stalking, such as the belief that it only occurs in ex-partner relationships. Creating a safer environment for women and raising awareness about stalking are essential in preventing and addressing this crime. -
Ruth Fogg, a stress expert and therapist, shares her journey of how stress took over her life, leading her to specialise in stress management and counselling psychology. She explains the importance of understanding how the mind works and the power of the subconscious in managing stress. Ruth discusses various self-help techniques she teaches her clients, including EMDR, hypnosis, and tapping (EFT), to release negative emotions and beliefs. She emphasises the need to recognise and address stress before it escalates into distress, illness, or burnout, highlighting the mind-body connection and the impact of stress on physical health.
Additionally, she explains the importance of understanding the causes and effects of stress in the workplace and offers workshops to help organisations manage it effectively. Ruth stresses the need for self-care and setting boundaries to prevent burnout.
Drawing from her experience in writing books on stress management, Ruth explains how they complement her therapy and workshop sessions. She also discusses the role of organisational policies in supporting stress management and the necessity of their effective implementation. Finally, she addresses common misconceptions about stress and the mind-body connection.
Takeaways
Stress can manifest in various forms and affects people of all ages. Understanding how the mind works is key to managing stress and anxiety. Self-help techniques like EMDR, hypnosis, and tapping can be effective in managing stress. Recognising and addressing stress early on is crucial to prevent it from escalating into distress or illness. Stress weakens the immune system and can lead to physical health issues. Understanding the causes and effects of stress is crucial for managing it effectively. Self-care and setting boundaries are essential for preventing burnout. Organisation policies on stress management need to be effectively implemented to be useful. The mind and body are interconnected, and understanding this connection is key to managing stress. -
**Please note** This episode contains sensitive topics and listener discretion is advised as this episode talks openly about sexual violence, recovery, and the resilience needed to overcome fear and move forward in life. Please prioritise your wellbeing first.
Madeleine Black, a sexual violence activist, shares her lived experience of survival and hope after surviving a traumatic sexual assault at the age of 13. She emphasises the importance of finding one's voice and breaking the silence surrounding sexual violence.
Madeleine discusses the impact of the assault on her mental health and self-identity, highlighting the feelings of worthlessness and shame that she experienced. She shares her journey of healing and forgiveness, explaining how she was able to let go of anger and find peace. Madeleine also discusses her advocacy work and the power of storytelling in raising awareness and supporting survivors of sexual violence.
She eloquently summarises her philosophy with these words: “It’s not what happens to us that is important, but what we do with what happens to us and if we choose to, we can get past anything that happens to us in life.” – Madeleine Black
Her book, Unbroken, is her personal journey, offering a powerful narrative of survival and resilience.
You can also watch her TEDx talks here:
Unbroken – Speaking the Unspeakable | Madeleine Black | TEDxGlasgow Why I'm Shaming Shame | Madeleine Black | TEDxUniversityofGlasgow -
**Please note: This episode contains sensitive topics about child trafficking and listener discretion is advised.**In this episode, Hossam explains the differences between analysis and encryption in home smart technology, highlighting their impacts on privacy and security.
We also discuss the hidden costs of mobile phone free apps and who can really access your information. Virtual talk
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**Please note: This episode contains sensitive topics and listener discretion is advised.**
With extensive research conducted in three countries and within maximum-security prisons, Kathryn brings a unique perspective to this conversation as we discuss the lives of women during incarcerationWe'd like to remind you that this episode contains discussions that may be triggering, particularly as we touch on sensitive topics such as Stalking, violence and murder.
Kathryn's touches on her documentary "Until We Have Faces" that explores the spiritual and corporeal identities of women serving life sentences in a United States maximum security prison. Women tell their personal stories as they reflect upon their humanity, their past and incarceration.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vC34QOLmFRM
Don't forget to subscribe to Dangerous Liaisons!
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Today we're privileged to talk to Ady who is a dedicated Independent Stalking Advocate, working with victims and survivors of crime and traumatic incidents. Here he shares the work undertaken to keep people in the community safe.
Victim Support is a UK charity dedicated to assisting individuals affected by crime. They offer emotional and practical support to help victims cope with the aftermath of crime and navigate the criminal justice system. Services include crisis intervention, guidance on accessing other support services, and a 24/7 helpline.
Victim Support also provides specialist assistance for those dealing with stalking, physical violence, sexual violence, and hate crimes, ensuring that victims receive the help they need to recover and rebuild their lives.
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**Please note: This episode contains sensitive topics and listener discretion is advised.**In this episode, Adam Zarnowski, a former US intelligence officer specialising in human trafficking, provides a pragmatic approach to understanding predatory behaviour, grooming and combating the various forms of exploitation. With expertise spanning intelligence, psychology, and social work, Adam discusses the realities faced by victims and emphasises the need for tailored interventions addressing root causes. By advocating for evidence-based strategies and collaborative efforts, Adam urges you to take practical steps towards ending human trafficking and promoting justice for vulnerable populations worldwide.
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In this conversation, Criminal psychologist Linda Sage explains that while Mullen et al.'s 5 stalking typologies offer valuable insights, it's important to recognise that stalking behaviours are often complex and can't always be neatly categorised. She further explains that individuals may exhibit behaviours from multiple typologies or transition between them over time and can cause great social harms. Rather than rigid labels, these typologies should be used as tools for understanding and assessing stalking dynamics, allowing for tailored interventions and ongoing evaluation to ensure victim safety.
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Join me for a conversation with Dr. Cliff Lansley, a body language analyst, on how to stay safe when meeting new people. Many of us rely on intuition when something feels off about others. In this episode, we will discuss subconscious signals that indicate deception or malintent. With extensive experience in military, intelligence, and law enforcement, where accurate judgement is crucial, his approaches are reliable. He also serves as a scientific adviser for the Discovery Channel's real crime documentaries, "Faking It." You can find his full bio below. Our discussion will cover strategies to use before, during, and after meeting someone face-to-face, ensuring you remain cautious without deterring genuine people.
Body language and 6 channels Link
Cliff Lansley PhD in Emotional
Role: EIA Group - Director.
Skills: Emotional Intelligence,Deception Detection, Casual Questioning Strategies.
His first honours degree was in Education(Psychology) with the University of Manchester which he did post-experience whilst employed as a lecturer in leadership and management in higher education, following ten years in the industry. Seven years later he then returned to the private sector with a government research grant to develop competent-based approaches and diagnostic tools for leaders, managers and HR professionals under one of the companies he founded, named Development Processes Group plc (DPG), which is still leading its field in the UK as a multi-million-pound operation, with Cliff as Chairman, Director and a major Shareholder.
He retired as CEO of DPG in 2008, at the age of forty-nine to follow his passion in Emotional Intelligence(EI), driven to join the research community to help convince leaders, police, teachers, social workers, etc. that EI is not a ‘soft skill’, but a key differentiator between competent and excellence. He has since sold DPG to enable a merger, making the joint enterprise the UK market leader in the HR business sector. He is motivated to draw on his experience as a successful business leader, an educationalist and a psychologist to leverage good scientific research and make a contribution to the excellent work being done by Mayer, Salovey, Caruso, Bar-On, Goleman, etc., to bring a new EI taxonomy and diagnostic methodology for EI that can stand up to the conflict and critiques across the existing models.
He co-founded the Emotional Intelligence Academy in 2008 and partnered with Dr Paul Ekman on a ten year project to help Dr Ekman’s research reach all continents in eight languages as training courses.
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Welcome to Dangerous Liaisons, an educational platform dedicated to exploring the complexities of society, culture, and relationships. This podcast addresses the pressing issue of violence against women and girls (VAWG) in its many forms, including physical violence, stalking, emotional abuse, child and sex trafficking, and cybercrime. Through interviews with professionals, researchers, and survivors, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these issues and their profound impact. We also highlight the barriers faced by those who struggle to get help or escape their situations, often due to being denied recognition as victims, which further marginalises them. Join us as we discuss these critical issues, share personal stories, and seek to enhance awareness and understanding.
