Log in

goodpods headphones icon

To access all our features

Open the Goodpods app
Close icon
headphones
The Silenced Voices of MST

The Silenced Voices of MST

Rachelle Smith

The Silenced Voices of MST podcast empowers MST survivors with resources, community, and better access to healing. Our mission is to break the silence surrounding Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and empower survivors to share their stories. This groundbreaking podcast sheds light on the untold experiences within our Armed Forces community, both among service members, veterans, and their loved ones. MST can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, rank, race, physical strength, or gender. Join us as we amplify the voices of survivors, raise awareness about MST, and spark crucial conversations for change. Our content includes MST survivor interviews, offering resources, and nurturing a community that truly understands trauma. Subscribe to our show, leave a review, and be part of a movement that creates a brighter future for all who have served. You are not alone. Together, we can make a difference. Visit: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com Social media: bio.site/silencedvoicesmst
bookmark
Share icon

All episodes

Best episodes

Seasons

Top 10 The Silenced Voices of MST Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Silenced Voices of MST episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Silenced Voices of MST for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Silenced Voices of MST episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

The Silenced Voices of MST - The Compelling MST Stories You Need to Know About
play

06/28/24 • 14 min

We share four news stories we need to keep an eye on related to military sexual trauma (MST). She highlights the toxic nature of the military and how MST is a symptom of a larger problem. The first story focuses on the Campaign for PCS Safety, which aims to protect gender diverse and people of color service members from MST. The second story discusses the court martial of Major General Stewart for alleged acts of sexual violence. The third story involves a soldier charged with child sexual assault and abuse. The fourth story covers the arrest of a retired brigadier general for alleged child sex crimes. The episode concludes with a reminder to come forward as a survivor and the announcement of upcoming guests and resources.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Top 5 MST News Stories

01:10 MST as a Symptom of a Toxic Military Culture

04:49 Court Martial of Major General Stewart: Holding High-Ranking Officials Accountable

08:36 Soldier Charged with Child Sexual Assault: Highlighting the Diversity of Perpetrators

11:44 Arrest of Retired General for Child Sex Crimes: The Need for Accountability

15:19 Supporting Survivors and Advocating for Change

Article 1: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/06/21/active-duty-families-seek-transparency-hate-crimes-and-racism-military-communities.html

Article 2: https://www.airandspaceforces.com/air-force-phillip-stewart-court-martial-jury-candidates/

Article 3: https://www.stripes.com/theaters/us/2024-06-21/fort-campbell-soldier-sexual-abuse-photos-children-14255111.html

Article 4: https://www.cbs19.tv/article/news/local/retired-air-force-general-arrested-for-child-sexual-assault-in-east-texas/501-fc968884-3998-44ac-90dc-ac2b5fee0a79#:~:text=According%20to%20Hopkins%20County%20judicial,He%20has%20since%20been%20released.

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - What Happens When A Small Flame Meets Gasoline?
play

06/12/24 • 4 min

Join Rachelle Smith as she relaunches The Silenced Voices of MST podcast with an explosive new direction. In this episode, she unveils exciting changes, including a new name, new logo, and the launch of a supportive Facebook group. Rachelle shares her personal journey, including surviving a serious car accident, and outlines the community's bold new path. It's time to stand up, speak out, and make our voices weapons in the fight against military sexual trauma (MST).

Timestamps:

  • 00:01 - Introduction: Our Voices are Weapons
    • Rachelle Smith introduces the podcast and emphasizes the power of collective voices in the fight against MST.
  • 00:24 - Major Updates: New Look and New Direction
    • Announcement of the podcast’s new name, logo, and episode covers.
  • 00:45 - Launching the Advocates of MST Facebook Group
    • Introduction of the new Facebook group, its purpose, and its inclusive nature.
  • 01:20 - Creating a Movement: The Advocates of MST
    • Comparison to Beyonce’s Beehive and the importance of a united community.
  • 01:59 - Personal Update: Surviving a Serious Car Accident
    • Rachelle shares her recent life-threatening experience and the impact on her outlook.
  • 03:00 - Writing Workshop Announcement
    • Details about an upcoming writing workshop to help MST survivors express and release their trauma.
  • 03:39 - Community Growth and Future Plans
    • Gratitude for community support, hints at future developments, and the introduction of new items in the shop.

Resources and Links:

Visit our website: [silencedvoicesmst.com](http://silencedvoicesmst.com)

Join our Facebook group: The Advocates of MST

Subscribe to our podcast on [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-silenced-voices-of-mst/id1727135896), [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/6h7VsfQskSFqYvFDUz9lap?si=ca98322275574791), or your favorite platform.

Call to Action:

Are you tired of being silenced? Share your story with us and be part of the change. Email us at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.

Use the hashtag #WeAreWatching and let the world know that we will not be silenced.

Spread this episode far and wide. Together, we are unstoppable!

Closing Remarks: Thank you for your unwavering support. Stay safe, be kind, and remember that our voices are weapons in the fight against MST. Until next time, keep sharing your stories and join our fight to end military sexual trauma for good.

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - A Motivated Mommy Teaches Kids About PTSD
play

04/23/24 • 90 min

Vianca Vazquez shares her experience in the Marine Corps and the challenges she faced, including injuries and inadequate medical care. She also discusses her experience of MST and highlights the impact of these experiences on the loss of her dream to serve in the military.

Vianca and Rachelle discuss the challenges of navigating cultural expectations as first-generation immigrants. Vianca's struggle with mental health and her journey to seek help and healing can provide hope to listeners. Vianca shares her experience of writing children's books to open up conversations about mental health and provide support for others.

She aims to bridge the communication gap and provide resources for children to understand mental health. The episode concludes with discussing her long-term goal of supporting survivors and funding for the future.

Takeaways

Inadequate medical care and dismissive attitudes towards injuries can have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences for service members.

MST is a significant issue that often goes unreported due to fear, shame, and a lack of support.

The lack of awareness and reporting options for MST within the military can leave survivors feeling silenced and unsupported.

Experiences of trauma and mistreatment can have a profound impact on a person's sense of identity and can lead to the loss of dreams and aspirations.

Creating educational books can help bridge the communication gap and provide resources for children to understand mental health.

Vianca's website: https://www.mottobunnie.com/

Book collection: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AVianca+Vazquez&s=relevancerank&text=Vianca+Vazquez&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/motto-moves-by-motto-bunnie/id1658947537?i=1000618825472

Vet Center Lookup: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice. If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Donate: Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience.

Credits:

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - Shay Breaks Her Silence As A General's Daughter
play

01/13/24 • 69 min

Shay shares her powerful story, from surprising her Air Force family by joining the Army to overcoming the challenges of military sexual assault. In this episode, she reveals valuable information from Secretary of the VA Denis R. McDonough that can aid listeners and their loved ones in navigating VA claims.

Military Sexual Trauma Operations Center San Juan, Puerto Rico:

https://www.benefits.va.gov/sanjuan/

Les "The VA Wizard": https://www.facebook.com/thevawizardclaimsagent/

Survey: https://forms.gle/V3dk289RXmbdMaRh7

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode.

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources.

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Fundraiser:

We rely on the support of our amazing listeners to keep running. Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience.

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2

Next week's interview is our host sharing her experience during her hospitalization at the VA Center in Houston, with her roommate at the facility there to share what she witnessed and experienced as well.

Connect:

Credits:

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - Erin Breaks Her Silence As A Navy Commander
play

12/09/23 • 93 min

Today, we sit down with Navy Commander Erin Elliot, a courageous woman who shares her harrowing experience of sexual assault by a former boyfriend, shedding light on the complexities of reporting assault and the varying support systems she encountered.

Commander Elliot opens up about her traumatic experience of being sexually assaulted after a seemingly ordinary brunch with a former boyfriend and a friend. She shares the challenges, nuances, and emotional toll of each decision, providing valuable insights into the military's response to such incidents.

Commander Elliot contrasts the support she received from different commanders. While one provided unwavering support and empathy, another displayed the complete opposite, highlighting the inconsistency in how the military handles sexual assault cases.

Commander Elliot faced additional stressors such as the loss of a parent, rigorous training, and assuming command responsibilities. Her ability to navigate these challenges serves as a testament to her strength and determination.

Commander Elliot has transformed her experience into a platform for change. She actively engages with Sexual Assault Victim Advocacy groups, military and civilian leaders, and various organizations to raise awareness about the issue. Her testimony before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel in 2019 underscores her commitment to driving systemic change.

Her advocacy work focuses on creating a more supportive environment for survivors, fostering accountability, and challenging existing norms surrounding sexual assault within the armed forces.

Commander Elliot testifying :

https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4789779/navy-lieutenant-commander-shares-personal-rape-story

Feedback Survey: https://forms.gle/pkKEv2EgTYJPDm9G8

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone you think it would impact.

To leave Commander Elliot a note of thanks or encouragement, please visit: https://silencedvoicesmst.com/salute-to-survivors

Winners of Starbucks Gift Cards!

Jessie Chen, Asher Skylark, and Charlyne Styles thank you for particpating!

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources.

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264),

Intro and Outro by Rich Culbreath - https://www.facebook.com/Lyricist4Lyfe

Podcast Mentor Benter Oluoch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benter-oluoch-ba944a179/

Marketing Advisor Rex Seaton - https://www.instagram.com/rexseaton

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - Holiday Episode

Holiday Episode

The Silenced Voices of MST

play

11/25/23 • 10 min

In this special holiday episode of "Silenced Voices | Stories of MST," host Rachelle Smith brings you heartwarming holiday cheer intertwined with groundbreaking news in the realm of military justice. President Biden has signed an Executive Order, marking a historic moment with bipartisan military justice reforms that significantly enhance how the military handles sexual assault cases. Rachelle unwraps the key points of this monumental development, highlighting the transformation of the military justice system, protection for victims, and the tireless efforts to address gender-based violence. The episode reflects on progress made over the past two years, acknowledging the Independent Review Commission's recommendations and detailing the advancements made by the Department of Defense. As we unwrap the holiday magic, the episode also explores the commitment to support survivors and build a military community rooted in dignity and respect.

Executive Order: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/08/02/2023-16570/2023-amendments-to-the-manual-for-courts-martial-united-states

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources.

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264),

Intro and Outro by Rich Culbreath - https://www.facebook.com/Lyricist4Lyfe

Podcast Mentor Benter Oluoch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benter-oluoch-ba944a179/

Marketing Advisor Rex Seaton - https://www.instagram.com/rexseaton

Please do not forget to fill out the episode surveys (so you can win 1 of 3 $25 Starbucks gift cards) located at:

Episode 2: https://forms.gle/8XtdkmuhmQZQ1UYX7

Episode 3: https://forms.gle/g9V1EF58oiVtUraV9

Episode 4: https://forms.gle/ehdHSokfjzAuHNSA7

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - Julie Breaks her Silence on Sexual Harassment
play

11/11/23 • 56 min

Summary

This episode features an interview with Julie, a former Air Force officer who experienced military sexual trauma (MST). Julie shares her journey from joining the military to reporting the incidents of harassment she faced. The interview highlights the challenges Julie faced during the reporting process, including the lack of support from the military justice system. Julie shares the impact of MST on her mental and emotional well-being and the importance of therapy and coping mechanisms. The episode concludes with acknowledgments of supportive individuals and organizations. In this episode, Julie shares her experiences with dating after surviving MST. Julie emphasizes the value of independence and self-sufficiency, while also expressing gratitude for the support she received.

Takeaways

  • Reporting MST can be a challenging and traumatic process, often involving gaslighting and lack of support from the military justice system.
  • Therapy and coping mechanisms, such as writing and engaging in activities that bring joy, can be helpful in healing and managing the effects of MST.
  • Recent changes in military policies, such as the addition of sexual harassment as a chargeable offense, aim to address and prevent MST.
  • Acceptance and self-worth are important in overcoming the challenges of dating after MST.
  • Support from others, both in personal relationships and professional networks, is invaluable for survivors.
  • Sharing stories can have a profound impact on survivors and create a sense of community and understanding.

Julie's Books:

The Myth of Adulting: Everyone's Just Winging It: https://a.co/d/3xVOEHw

Letters from Future Me: https://a.co/d/8UBQWFM

Organizations:

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic - https://www.endeavors.org/cohen-clinic-san-antonio/

Anxiety Guys - https://anxietyguys.com/

Episode Feedback Survey - https://forms.gle/8XtdkmuhmQZQ1UYX7

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Intro and Outro by Rich Culbreath - https://www.facebook.com/Lyricist4Lyfe

Podcast Mentor Benter Oluoch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benter-oluoch-ba944a179/

Marketing Advisor Rex Seaton - https://www.instagram.com/rexseaton

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - Introduction to The Silenced Voices of MST
play

11/11/23 • 18 min

Summary

Silence Voices, Stories of MST is a podcast dedicated to giving a voice to military sexual trauma survivors. The host, Rachel Smith, expresses gratitude to the participants for sharing their stories and encourages listeners to send positive energy and letters of support to the survivors. The podcast aims to create awareness, advocate for a safer military environment, and provide a platform for survivors, advocates, clinicians, and supportive organizations. The host shares definitions and facts about military sexual trauma and highlights the pervasiveness of the issue. The upcoming episodes promise thought-provoking discussions and inspiring stories. The host acknowledges the support of her family, boyfriend, and contributors to the IndieGoGo campaign, which aims to raise funds for production costs, awareness campaigns, accessibility, and podcast hosting and maintenance.

Takeaways

  • Silence Voices, Stories of MST is a podcast dedicated to giving a voice to military sexual trauma survivors.
  • The podcast aims to create awareness, advocate for a safer military environment, and provide a platform for survivors, advocates, clinicians, and supportive organizations.
  • Military sexual trauma (MST) refers to a service member's experience with sexual assault or sexual harassment during their military service.
  • MST can have a significant impact on survivors' mental and physical health, relationships, and work life.
  • The podcast seeks donations through an IndieGoGo campaign to support production costs, awareness campaigns, accessibility, and podcast hosting and maintenance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Silence Voices, Stories of MST

04:02 Purpose of the Podcast

05:24 Discovery of the Pervasiveness of MST

07:37 Creating Awareness and Driving Change

09:27 Definition and Facts about MST

13:20 Expectations for Upcoming Episodes

14:43 Acknowledgments and Support

15:40 IndieGoGo Campaign and Call for Donations

17:33 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources.

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264),

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

Intro and Outro by Rich Culbreath - https://www.facebook.com/Lyricist4Lyfe

Podcast Mentor Benter Oluoch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benter-oluoch-ba944a179/

Marketing Advisor Rex Seaton - https://www.instagram.com/rexseaton

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - Taylor Breaks Her Silence As A Military Dependent
play

11/11/23 • 67 min

In this episode, titled "3: Taylor Breaks Her Silence As A Military Dependent," we unfold the story of Taylor, a military dependent who confronted unimaginable challenges when subjected to assault by two airmen.

We gently explore Taylor's path in the aftermath of trauma. Her courage in navigating the experience shines a light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by military dependents. This survivor spotlight stands as a subtle testament to the unwavering spirit that can emerge from life's darkest moments.

As we delve into Taylor's story, prepare to be troubled by the surprising reason she chose not to report. The episode also delves into the nuanced topics of alcohol's influence on military sexual trauma, instances of military members pursuing minors, and the unsettling entitlement some feel to engage in inappropriate behavior towards women.

Join us in reflecting on the quiet power of resilience and the importance of amplifying survivor voices. This episode addresses the critical issue of military sexual trauma while honoring the profound strength and determination of those who gracefully transcend the confines of their past.

Episode Feedback Survey - https://forms.gle/g9V1EF58oiVtUraV9

Fundraiser - https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/silenced-voices-stories-of-mst/x/35077269#/

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources.

Suicide Prevention Hotline - 988

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264),

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

Intro and Outro by Rich Culbreath - https://www.facebook.com/Lyricist4Lyfe

Podcast Mentor Benter Oluoch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benter-oluoch-ba944a179/

Marketing Advisor Rex Seaton - https://www.instagram.com/rexseaton

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
The Silenced Voices of MST - How Plant Medicine Turned My PTSD into Post Traumatic Growth
play

07/20/24 • 56 min

1620 Pablo is well-versed in alternate methods of medication. Pablo shares his experience using plant medicine, specifically cannabis and CBD, to deal with mental health obstacles and physical injuries.

1620 Pablo also emphasizes the need for better care and support for veterans within the VA system. while sharing his journey with cannabis and advocacy in the state of Florida. He discusses his involvement in fighting against restrictive hemp bills and the importance of small businesses in the industry. 1620 Pablo explains the difference between THC and CBD and the various benefits of different cannabinoids.

Additionally, he highlights the issue of military sexual trauma (MST) and the need for support and resources for survivors. 1620 Pablo emphasizes the importance of post-traumatic growth and the collective effort needed to address mental health issues and reduce suicide rates among veterans and the wider community.

MST Task Force Puerto Rico: https://www.benefits.va.gov/sanjuan/

The Centre: https://www.thecentrespb.com/

Battle Buds: https://www.battlebudsusa.com/

Mike Minardi: https://minardilaw.com/

Tu Canna: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amnQPWPXVQw

Chillum: https://chillumdispensary.com/

Join our Facebook group

Share your story at here. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.

No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.

If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:

Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1

NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)

bookmark
plus icon
share episode

Show more best episodes

Toggle view more icon

FAQ

How many episodes does The Silenced Voices of MST have?

The Silenced Voices of MST currently has 29 episodes available.

What topics does The Silenced Voices of MST cover?

The podcast is about Society & Culture, Podcasts and Education.

What is the most popular episode on The Silenced Voices of MST?

The episode title 'Kim's Startling Past Pitfalls Light An Uplifting Path For Survivors' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on The Silenced Voices of MST?

The average episode length on The Silenced Voices of MST is 55 minutes.

How often are episodes of The Silenced Voices of MST released?

Episodes of The Silenced Voices of MST are typically released every 6 days, 22 hours.

When was the first episode of The Silenced Voices of MST?

The first episode of The Silenced Voices of MST was released on Nov 10, 2023.

Show more FAQ

Toggle view more icon

Comments