Why be Silent?

How ACEs Shape Parenting: Breaking the Cycle

This episode explores Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and how early trauma and household dysfunction can influence us as adults and as parents. It explains how ACEs affect emotional availability, discipline, and the risk of repeating harmful patterns, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing these impacts.
The host offers practical steps—self-reflection, seeking counseling, using age-appropriate conversations about safety, and using community resources (like the Mama Bear Effect)—to help parents break the cycle and create safer, healthier environments for their children.
 
A Systematic Review of the Effect of Parental Adverse Childhood Experiences on Parenting and Child Psychopathology | Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma | Springer Nature Link
The Mama Bear Effect - Child Sexual Abuse is Preventable
 

When Silence Isn't an Option: A Teen Survivor's Story

Shannon Vincent interviews Lavonda Johnson about her experience with teen sexual assault, the confusion and silence that followed, and how she moved forward.
They discuss teen sexual violence statistics, survivor reactions, family and community dynamics, available resources, and practical advice for young people and parents on safety and seeking help.
 
HOME | YWCA
Homepage - RAINN

When Trauma Meets Love: Navigating Relationships with First Responders and Survivors

In this episode Shannon Vincent hosts a candid conversation with family members about how relationships change when one partner is a trauma survivor or works with traumatic cases. They discuss communication, boundaries, therapy, parenting challenges, hypervigilance, and practical ways partners can support each other while protecting their families.
Guests share personal stories from domestic violence, law enforcement, and forensic nursing to highlight what helps — and what doesn’t — when trauma affects everyday life.
 
Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline
Mental Health: Tools and Other Resources | NATIONAL SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION

Coroners Uncovered: What They Do and Why It Matters

Shannon Vincent interviews York County Coroner Sabrina Gast about the coroner's role in death investigations. They discuss how coroners differ from medical examiners, how cases are handled at the scene, evidence collection, autopsy decisions, family notifications, and the legal and emotional challenges involved.
The episode explains qualifications for coroners in South Carolina, the process of working with law enforcement and pathologists, and what families can expect during investigations and autopsy decisions.

Inside Victim Services: Healing, Notification & Corrections

Hello and welcome to another episode of Why be Silent with Shannon Vincent and guest Karin Ho from the South Carolina Department of Corrections. Karin explains what victim advocates do, the differences between community- and system-based advocacy, and the services available post-conviction, including victim notification systems, victim-offender dialogue, restorative programs, training, and barriers to access.
She also covers support for correctional staff, critical incident stress management, and practical guidance for victims on registering for notifications and asking for help.
 
Desert Waters Correctional Outreach
Home | Office for Victims of Crime
National Advocate Credentialing Program (NACP) | NOVA
National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI)
National Institute of Corrections | NIC
Victims' Rights - Constitutional Amendments

Inside PREA: How Prisons Are Protecting the Vulnerable

Host Shannon Vincet speaks with Kenneth James, a PREA expert and corrections leader, about the Prison Rape Elimination Act: its origins, national standards, recent statistics, reporting procedures, protections for victims, and the resources and services available both inside and outside correctional facilities.
The episode highlights South Carolina’s initiatives, the importance of leadership and trust, and practical steps victims and families can take to access care and support.
https://www.prearesourcecenter.org/
https://doc.sc.gov/sites/doc/files/Documents/policy/GA-06-11.pdf
https://doc.sc.gov/sites/doc/files/Documents/policy/GA-06-11B.pdf
https://doc.sc.gov/preaweb
https://www.ojp.gov/news/news-release/bjs-releases-sexual-victimization-prisons-reported-inmates-2023-24-and-sexual
 

Why Be Silent: The Fight for Change in South Carolina

Shannon Vincent returns after a short break to update listeners on recent advocacy work: the push for strangulation felony legislation in South Carolina, threats to reproductive and medical practice under proposed bills, rising violence against healthcare workers, and turmoil within the International Association of Forensic Nurses due to embezzlement.The episode underscores the need for nurses to advocate for patients and themselves, explains how bills move through the legislature, and urges listeners to stay informed, show up, and make their voices heard.

When the Badge Meets the Vulnerable: Law Enforcement's Role in Abuse Cases

In this episode Shannon Vincent interviews veteran law enforcement instructor Brian Bennett about the role of police in human trafficking, sexual assault, domestic violence and elder abuse. They explain training for officers, how investigations and arrests work, different response tiers, victim advocacy, court testimony, and how technology and leadership affect outcomes.
Brian and Shannon offer practical advice for victims and concerned community members on reporting, pursuing civil or criminal options, working with prosecutors, and staying informed about your rights and resources.
 
U.S. Attorneys | Crime Victims' Rights Act

When Silence Strangles: Understanding Non‑Fatal Strangulation

In this episode Shannon Vincent speaks with retired law‑enforcement instructor Brian Bennett about non‑fatal strangulation: what it is, how little force can cause serious internal injury, and why it often leaves few visible marks.
They discuss medical signs and long‑term effects, the importance of proper assessment and documentation, legal gaps and advocacy for stronger laws, and resources for survivors and professionals.
 
Alliance for HOPE International
Section I - Non-Fatal Strangulation - International Association of Forensic Nurses
Why Non-Fatal Strangulation Is a Critical Warning Sign in Abuse Cases - Shadows of Control

Unveiling Silent Threats: STIs Demystified

Join host Shannon Vincent as she welcomes back forensic nurse Shellie Keisler in this enlightening episode of "Why Be Silent." Together, they delve into an open and informative discussion about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Ms. Keisler, with her extensive background in women's health, shares insights on the history, misconceptions, and the importance of education surrounding STIs.
The conversation explores various types of STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, herpes, syphilis, and HIV, shedding light on their symptoms, treatment options, and their impact on public health. They emphasize the necessity of regular testing and honest communication to prevent the spread of these infections.
With real-life anecdotes, engaging discussions, and essential tips for sexual health, this episode aims to break the silence on STIs and empower listeners with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. Tune in to become more aware and educated on these vital health topics.
 
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) | STI | CDC
Sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms - Mayo Clinic
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) | HHS.gov