171. Dave Markel:  When Showing Up Means Slowing Down

171. Dave Markel: When Showing Up Means Slowing Down

Author: Dave Markel January 6, 2026 Duration: 7:55
Today, this episode is a brief reflection from me, recorded as a pause in the regular rhythm of the show. Rather than a guest interview, I'm speaking directly to you, my listeners, about the weight of trauma-informed work, the importance of rest, and what it means to show up honestly when the work feels heavy. For survivors, professionals, and advocates alike, this episode is a reminder that healing is not linear, strength is not measured by endurance alone, and slowing down is sometimes the most responsible choice. Regular guest episodes of Sexual Assault Survivor Stories will resume next week. An important side note: if you're finding value in this show and these amazing episodes, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform. AND, follow SexualAssaultSurvivorStories on Instagram, then, please send me a note of support. I can't tell you how much your emails mean to me—they fuel my passion to keep this podcast going. And if you're a victim or survivor and are ready to tell your story in order to help yourself or someone else heal, let me know, and we can start a conversation about the possibility of you being on the show. Here's my email address: dave@sasstories.com Thank you to all of you who have reached out to me already. Just provide me with a phone number where I can reach back out to you…because I like to talk to people who are interested in guesting. And please keep those emails and texts coming…I truly look forward to hearing from you! Here are some critically important links that I hope you'll take the time to explore, and where a contribution is requested, please consider doing so! — Thank you!! https://whattheydontsay.com https://1in6.org/ https://time.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/repeat_rape.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://soulwisesolutions.com https://safeinharmsway.org https://startbybelieving.org https://evawintl.org/ As mentioned, and emphasized, it's time to Normalize the Conversation.™ And please remember to Start by Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. (Check out https://evawintl.org/ & https://startbybelieving.org for more information on "Start By Believing"!) Thank you for tuning in. --Dave

Hosted by Dave Markel, Sexual Assault Survivor Stories creates a necessary and nuanced space centered on personal narratives and expert understanding. Each week, this podcast shares firsthand accounts from individuals who have experienced sexual assault, offering a raw and respectful look at the journey from victim to survivor. These stories aren't just about the trauma itself; they delve into the complex path of healing, highlighting both the profound adversities faced and the hard-won victories, large and small. Listening provides a window into the emotional and psychological dynamics that define survival, moving beyond simplistic narratives to honor the full, often messy, human experience. Crucially, this isn't a resource only for those directly affected. The podcast deliberately expands the conversation to educate a broader audience. Episodes explore the principles of trauma-informed communication and break down the neuroscience of trauma and memory, explaining how these factors impact a survivor's recall and testimony. This approach fosters deeper empathy and insight, whether you're a supporter, a professional, or anyone seeking to comprehend these issues on a more informed level. By weaving together personal truth and psychological context, this podcast serves as both a sanctuary for shared experience and a vital tool for collective learning.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Sexual Assault Survivor Stories
Podcast Episodes
124. BB Gabriel: No Ordinary Love; Healing Through Writing [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:04
When I found BB Gabriel on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/stories/no.ordinary.love_bb.gabriel/), and read about her book, No Ordinary Love, I wasted no time in reaching out to her to ask her to be a guest on this s…
123. Victoria Ellen: The Path from Abuse to Empowerment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:23
The path from abuse to empowerment…this title doesn't quite do justice to this story; but it's a good start. Victoria Ellen IS a survivor! But even more that, she is a powerhouse. She married a man who wasn't at all what…
122. Rosa: Dear John Stamos: A Letter for You (And Everyone Else) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:31
If you know John Stamos (yes, the multi-time Emmy nominated actor, co-star of TV's "Full House," and author of "If You Would Have Told Me: A Memoir"), or if you know someone who does, please let him know there's a letter…
121. Arci Grey: Announcing the Opening of Survivor School! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:35
It's quite an honor to have Arci Grey come back as my guest this week as she introduces Survivor School, an online trauma-informed personal development platform designed for trauma survivors! Our discussion covers the jo…
117. Janna MacLean; The Mask of Kindness: Unmasking a Sexual Predator [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:03
This week's episode delves into the harrowing story of Janna, who at the beginning of this story was a young high schooler who fell prey to a manipulative groomer. This individual, initially presenting himself as a kind,…