True Crime Connections ~ Advocacy Podcast

Most people know about the 988 Suicide Line. But almost no one knows there’s another number you can call when someone is on the brink of committing mass violence. In this powerful conversation, Tiffanie sits down with Sean Cononie, founder of the Rage Hotline (also called the “No Shoot Line”), to talk about how early intervention can stop mass shootings before they happen. Sean explains the warning signs, what really drives most shooters, and how kindness, follow-up, and simple tools can make the difference between tragedy and hope. This is an episode every parent, teacher, and community member needs to hear. ✅ You’ll learn: ✅ Why most shooters leak their plans 2 months before an attack ✅ How trauma plays a bigger role than people realize ✅ What to say if someone you know threatens violence ✅ How the hotline operates nationwide—quietly saving lives ✅ Simple everyday actions that can protect your community 📞 Rage Hotline: 605-667-4668 🌐 massshooting.org Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What if raising emotionally strong kids started with healing yourself? In this episode, Family & Child Counsellor Jacintha Field shares how she transformed the chaos of solo parenting, trauma recovery, and pandemic overwhelm into Happy Souls Kids — a global movement that helps children regulate their emotions through storytelling, play, and real-life role models. ✅ Learn how to help your child manage big feelings ✅ Discover tools to build connection (not perfection) ✅ Understand how parental healing impacts your kids ✅ Feel inspired to forgive yourself and start again Because our kids don’t need perfect parents — they just need present ones. How to connect: hello@happysoulskids.com. https://www.happysoulskids.com/ Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Behind the bright lights of Hollywood was a little girl in pain. Hilary Powers—once the voice of Sally Brown in the Peanuts cartoons—grew up in chaos, addiction, and abuse. But after hitting rock bottom, she found recovery, faith, and purpose. Now, over 40 years sober, she’s helping others break free from trauma and old belief systems that keep them stuck. In this powerful conversation, Hilary shares how to reclaim your power, heal the inner child, and finally live free. ✅ How trauma quietly shapes your choices and relationships ✅ The triangle method to stabilize your body, mind, and spirit ✅ Why buried pain always returns until you face it ✅ How to move from victim to victor—one decision at a time ✅ The mindset shifts that lead to freedom 💜 This episode reminds you: your story doesn’t end in pain—it begins with healing. How to connect: https://www.hilarypowers.com/ Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

When Terry Garza was just 20 years old, her world was shattered. The father of her daughter went on a violent rampage, killing his mother, nearly killing his brother, and stealing a police car to flee. In the chaos that followed, Terry had to pick up the pieces — as a young single mom, survivor, and woman determined to turn her pain into purpose. In this raw and powerful conversation, Terry opens up about: ✅ Surviving the trauma of homicide and rebuilding life afterward ✅ Healing from denial, disassociation, and generational pain ✅ How music and “shadow work” helped her rediscover who she was ✅ Finding purpose through post-traumatic growth ✅ Why survivors of homicide need their own support systems ✅ The first-ever national conference for homicide survivors This episode reminds us that the healing journey isn’t about forgetting — it’s about finding meaning in what broke us, and using it to help others rise. How to connect: aftermath.of.homicide@gmail.com The Aftermath Conference: A National Gathering for Those Impacted by Homicide September 11–13, 2026 | Gig Harbor, Washington https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-aftermath-conference-tickets-1645335074499 Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Financial abuse is one of the most common — and least talked about — forms of control. It keeps victims trapped, isolated, and questioning their worth. This week, Amanda Scott joins me to pull back the curtain on 17 years of emotional and financial abuse inside her marriage. She shares how control slowly became her “normal,” why victims often don’t recognize the signs until it’s too late, and the pivotal moment she finally said “enough.” If you’ve ever felt stuck, powerless, or unsure whether what you’re experiencing is “normal”… this episode could be your turning point. What you’ll learn: ✅ Red flags of financial control & emotional manipulation ✅ How abusers slowly erode self-worth to keep victims compliant ✅ Why staying “for the kids” often reinforces generational trauma ✅ Practical steps to rebuild your power, self-worth & support system ✅ How to stop mistaking control for love — and start trusting your gut again Amanda’s memoir, Finding My Way Back to Me, is available on Amazon and her website. How to connect: https://www.amandajscott.com/ https://amandajscottpodcast.com/ Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What if writing could help you heal what you don’t have words for? Nadine Ellis is an autistic poet, late-diagnosed and long-dismissed. She’s a survivor of childhood trauma, emotional abuse, and being told she'd “never amount to anything.” But instead of staying silent, she picked up a pen—and never stopped writing. In this conversation, Nadine opens up about: Being bullied at school and misunderstood at home. Why she believes writing saved her life—and how it can help you, too The deeper message behind her new book, The Gray Between ✅ Discover how poetry can be a tool for healing ✅ Learn how to process big feelings (without sharing every detail) ✅ Feel seen if you’ve ever felt “different,” dismissed, or overwhelmed ✅ Understand how autistic and neurodivergent minds experience emotional pain You don’t have to be a poet to connect with this one—you just have to be human. How to connect: https://www.nadineellis.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Grey-Between-Nadine-Ellis/dp/1763788202 Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What if the abuse you went through… started generations before you? And what if no one ever showed you a healthy version of love? In this episode, therapist and survivor Sophora Acheson shares her raw, personal story—from being raised by a violent father in a biker gang, to surviving a toxic relationship that ended in blood and jail, to now leading one of the country’s top trauma recovery nonprofits. We talk about what happens when your nervous system only recognizes chaos, how healing really feels, and why Restorative Pathways is now helping not just survivors—but the people who cause harm. If you’ve ever asked, “Why did I stay? What’s wrong with me? How do I stop the cycle?” — this one is for you. ✅ What you’ll get from this episode: ✅ The link between childhood trauma and toxic adult relationships ✅ How your body can confuse chaos for love ✅ What actually starts the healing journey (hint: it's not therapy first) ✅ Why so many survivors become the abuser—and how to stop it ✅ The program helping people who cause harm break the cycle ✅ A new way to reclaim safety, voice, and peace—one layer at a time How to connect: https://restorativepathways.org/ Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

At just three years old, Avonley Lightstone tried to save her mother from a house fire — but lost her. Shortly after, her father gave her up for adoption, and she endured years of emotional and physical abuse in a home where love felt conditional. But her story doesn’t end in pain — it rises in faith. In this powerful conversation, Avonley shares how she turned tragedy into testimony, writing her book Strength of Scars to help others find healing, forgiveness, and purpose. ✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to heal from childhood trauma and abandonment ✅ The power of forgiveness — even for those who hurt you most ✅ Why faith can transform pain into purpose ✅ Breaking generational trauma for the next generation ✅ Practical tips to nurture yourself when you feel alone 🎧 Listen now and discover how to turn your scars into strength — and why your story matters more than you think. How to connect: https://www.amazon.com/Strength-Scars-Avonley-Lightstone/dp/B0F8PKWW3V https://www.tiktok.com/@avonleylightstone Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Rosario Chico is a DHS insider, whistleblower, and mother—now facing criminal charges for trying to protect her kids. After reporting abuse, getting a protective order, and being told by DHS to seek emergency custody, Rosario fled for safety… only to be arrested and labeled a kidnapper. Why? Because of one powerful player in her case: the guardian ad litem. A woman Rosario says lied under oath, hid evidence, and had personal connections with opposing counsel. 🎧 In this shocking episode, Rosario reveals: ✅ Why she filed a federal lawsuit against her GAL ✅ How the court failed her children—even with proof of abuse ✅ The disturbing pattern of retaliation and collusion she uncovered ✅ What really happens when the wrong people get courtroom power ✅ How you can help her fight back before it's too late ⚖️ Sign the petition: justice4rosario.com 📅 Rally: Sept 22, 2025 – Tulsa County 📍 Facebook: @Justice4Rosario Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

In 1949, Norman and Anne Browne were enjoying retirement in the peaceful beach town of Crystal Beach, Florida. Until one morning, a stranger returned to their home with a shotgun in his hand and secrets nobody saw coming. In this episode, Tiffanie sits down with author Michael Gross, whose book MADMAN uncovers the twisted true story of John “Rastus” Russell—a charming man with movie star looks and a history of violent crime. What unfolded that day wasn’t just murder—it was part of a mystery involving robbery, lies, and a small town that never forgot. ✅ The horrifying home invasion that shocked Florida’s Gulf Coast ✅ Why the victims might not have been as innocent as they seemed ✅ Local interviews that revealed the real story behind the headlines ✅ A killer’s final words before he was gunned down ✅ How this story stayed hidden for 70+ years 🎧 This isn’t just a true crime case. It’s a movie-worthy moment in history that most people have never heard of—until now. Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What if the person you trusted as a spiritual guide turned out to be the reason you lost yourself? In this gripping episode, Andrew-Ryan Profaci shares his harrowing experience inside the 'Love Has Won' cult, where he lived as 'Father God' under the control of Amy Carlson, known as 'Mother God.' From overcoming addiction and surviving stage four cancer to being manipulated and ultimately realizing the harsh truth, Andrew's story is a powerful testament to the struggle of reclaiming one's identity and finding real faith. This isn't just about escaping a cult; it's about discovering your true self and overcoming manipulation. Don't miss Andrew's emotional and unfiltered tale of survival and self-discovery. How to Connect: https://thewaronlove.com/ https://www.cultinsider.com/ Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

At just 14, Morgan Scafe was caught in a web of betrayal, abuse, and silence, handpicked by her best friend's family to endure unthinkable trauma. With nowhere to turn, she wrote an anonymous note that sparked a seven-year battle for justice, resulting in a high-stakes courtroom showdown. Morgan shares her journey from victim to advocate, the flaws in the justice system, and the urgent need for legal reforms to protect survivors. Her upcoming book, 'Carpenter Road, ' promises to shed even more light on the complicity of institutions, such as the Catholic Church. Tune in to hear Morgan's powerful message about trauma and transformation. What you’ll get: ✅ Clear signs of grooming most adults miss ✅ What to say (and not say) when a child hints at abuse ✅ Why many kids don’t report—and how to change that ✅ How church/school systems can block disclosure ✅ Statute of limitations: what it is and why it matters ✅ Action steps to support survivors & push for reform How to connect: https://morganscafe.net/ https://www.amazon.com/CARPENTER-ROAD-SENTENCED-MORGAN-SCAFE-ebook/dp/B0BVT3CW89?ref_=ast_author_mpb Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

When Lt. JG Burr Johnson III was murdered aboard a U.S. Navy ship in Pearl Harbor, his daughter was just two years old. The government went silent. The killer disappeared. And for over 30 years, no answers came. In this powerful true crime episode, Allicia Johnson Niles shares her journey to uncover the truth behind her father’s death—revealing a shocking military cover-up, emotional trauma from unresolved grief, and a spiritual connection that helped guide her search. In this episode: ✅ What it’s like growing up haunted by a murder with no answers ✅ How a spiritual connection to her father led her to the truth ✅ Why unresolved childhood grief often becomes lifelong trauma ✅ The shocking moment she realized the Navy knew more than they said ✅ How her healing helped other sailors who served with her dad ✅ How the U.S. Navy buried the truth about a murder on the USS Richard S. Edwards ✅ What it’s like to spiritually connect with a parent you never got to know ✅ How Allicia’s investigation led to her father’s killer—and peace 🟨 Trigger Warning: Military murder, PTSD, childhood trauma, grief, spiritual themes. How to connect: https://www.unlikelycourage.com/ https://www.angelinarlington.com/ Shoot me a text! Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Alan Katz carried a devastating secret for 45 years — even from himself. At 14, he was sexually abused twice by the religious director of his synagogue. The trauma buried itself deep, quietly poisoning his confidence, self-worth, and ability to connect with others… until it nearly cost him his life. In this powerful conversation, Alan shares how he confronted his past, survived a near-suicide, and rebuilt his life through radical honesty, storytelling, and creativity — including his time as the creative mind behind HBO’s Tales from the Crypt. We talk about: ✔️ How trauma hides in plain sight — even from the person living it ✔️ The moment everything came rushing back ✔️ The power of telling your story without shame ✔️ What Hollywood horror taught him about justice ✔️ How owning your “bullshit” can set you free ✔️ Why storytelling might be the most powerful tool for healing ⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode discusses sexual abuse, trauma, and suicide. Please listen with care. How to connect: https://costardandtouchstone.com/ Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What if the people and situations you're drawn to aren't choices at all, but your brain chemistry controlling your behavior? In this eye-opening conversation, trauma survivor Jasmina Sabi reveals how our brains become addicted to their own chemicals, creating unconscious patterns that dictate our relationships, reactions, and life decisions. Jasmina shares her raw, powerful journey from growing up in chaos to repeatedly choosing older men and finding herself in psychologically abusive relationships. Through therapy and self-education about biochemistry, she discovered that her relationship patterns weren't random - they were directly tied to childhood programming that had altered her brain chemistry. Living in constant fight-or-flight mode creates excess cortisol, while other experiences affect dopamine and serotonin levels. These chemical imbalances drive behavior far more powerfully than conscious thought, which helps explain why breaking unhealthy cycles is so challenging. Jasmina argues that understanding these biochemical realities is essential for healing intergenerational trauma and creating healthier patterns. Ready to understand why you make the choices you do? Listen now and discover the surprising science that might just set you free from repeating the same painful patterns. Shoot me a text! Support the show 10 Things About You: Self-Exploration Journal https://www.amazon.com/shop/truecrimeconnectionspodcast htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Paul Hutchinson’s story is the one that inspired the movie Sound of Freedom, but the truth is much deeper—and the fight is far from over. In this gripping episode, Paul takes us through over 70 life-risking undercover missions to rescue children from human traffickers. While the movie sparked global awareness, Paul reveals that the reality of human trafficking is still a growing crisis that demands urgent action. From personal accounts of rescue missions to the unspoken truths of the trafficking world, Paul opens up about the battles he faced and the trauma that survivors endure. He also discusses the importance of preventing future generations from becoming part of this devastating cycle. This episode is a wake-up call—because even though Sound of Freedom raised awareness, it’s just the beginning. The real fight continues, and you can be part of the solution. How to contact: https://liberating-humanity.com/ https://www.soundoffreedombook.com/free-chapters https://childliberation.org/ Shoot me a text! Support the show htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

Did you know your brain can only hold 7–8 things at once? That’s why even the most loving parent can make one fatal mistake—and forget their child in the car. In this powerful and emotional episode, Tiffanie speaks with Michael Israel, co-founder of CleverElly, a company built by tech dads who wanted to save lives. Michael explains the terrifying reality of hot car deaths, the simple science behind why it happens, and how CleverElly’s low-cost reminder device is making a massive impact. We’re not just talking about statistics—we’re talking about babies. Over 1,000 children have died this way since 1998, and it’s 100% preventable. Tune in to learn: If you’re a parent, caregiver, or know someone who is—this episode is a must-listen. How to find: https://cleverelly.com/ Shoot me a text! Support the show htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What happens when the people meant to protect you become the source of your pain, and the system designed to save you only adds more trauma? Adriene Caldwell shares her powerful story of growing up in foster care, surviving emotional and physical abuse, and witnessing unimaginable pain. But what begins as a tale of betrayal turns into a story of hope. Adriene later learns that her mother, once viewed only through the lens of trauma, was suffering from untreated schizophrenia. Her healing journey leads to compassion, understanding, and ultimately, a profound reconnection. Less than 3% of foster youth attend college, and 1 in 5 people in prison came through the system.. Adriene shares her endured childhood trauma, abuse, and neglect, and how she found her voice in the process. From saving a friend’s life to writing her book “Unbroken Life Outside the Lines,” her story is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Inside this episode: ✔️ The day she trusted her gut—and saved a friend from danger ✔️ How foster care shaped her early years—and almost broke her ✔️ When she learned the truth about her mother’s mental illness ✔️ Why forgiveness and awareness go hand in hand in breaking cycles ✔️ The shocking statistics behind foster care and incarceration ✔️ Why her book is a must-read for trauma-informed professionals Whether you're a survivor, a social worker, or someone who wants to make a difference, this episode will stay with you. How to contact: https://www.unbrokencaldwell.com/ Adriene@UnbrokenCaldwell.com Shoot me a text! Support the show htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections

What if your own mother tried to frame your brother for murder? In this jaw-dropping episode, host Tiffanie sits down with Donna Hall from The Hall Closet podcast. Donna shares how she discovered her family's terrifying connection to two of Philadelphia’s most famous unsolved murder cases. As she peels back the layers of abuse, lies, and betrayal, we learn how Donna faced the unthinkable—and found strength through truth and storytelling. This episode is raw, real, and unforgettable. Inside This Episode: ✔️ How Donna’s mother got involved in crime and manipulation ✔️ The truth about Donna’s stepfather and wrongful convictions ✔️ What Donna discovered through DNA testing ✔️ How sharing your story can lead to healing ✔️ Why telling the truth—even when it hurts—can set you free How to contact: Shoot me a text! Support the show htpps://www.truecrimeconnections.com https://www.instagram.com/truecrimeconnectionspodcast/ www.tiktok.com/@truecrimeconnections