Why be Silent?
Domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, elder abuse, child abuse, the list goes on. So many topics that are considered hush-hush. Topics that are whispered about or not spoken of at all because it’s not nice conversation. Why be silent? Listen as a forensic nurse examiner talks about these things openly and learn information and resources that may save someone’s life, including your own.
Episodes

Jan 13, 2025
Jan 13, 2025
31 min
Welcome to this episode of Why be Silent with Shannon Vincent, where we delve into the complexities of the neurobiology of trauma and its profound impact on sexual assault survivors. As a forensic nurse examiner, Shannon sheds light on how trauma affects the brain, influencing victims' physical and psychological responses.
Join us as we explore key hormones like opioids, oxytocin, catecholamines, and cortisol, and their roles in the fight, flight, freeze, flop, and fawn responses. Shannon emphasizes the importance of understanding these responses to support survivors effectively.
Highlighting the vital need for trauma-informed care, Shannon discusses how professionals can create safe, supportive environments for survivors, ensuring their voices are heard and believed. This episode is a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of trauma's impact and how best to assist those affected.
The Neurobiology of Trauma Part 1
The Neurobiology of Trauma Part 2

Jan 11, 2025
Jan 11, 2025
35 min
In the debut episode of "Why Be Silent," forensic nurse examiner Shannon Vincent courageously delves into the harsh realities of society's most taboo topics: sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, elder abuse, and more. Shannon shares her journey as a forensic nurse and her mission to break the silence surrounding these issues, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness and support for victims.
Listeners are urged to confront the uncomfortable truths surrounding these issues. Shannon provides insight into her forensic training, the challenges faced by victims, and the crucial need for community involvement to bring about change.
As Shannon discusses daunting statistics and societal misconceptions, she encourages everyone to become informed and proactive in their communities, supporting victims and working towards prevention. This episode serves as a call to action for listeners to be part of the solution, advocating for resource sharing, victim support, and ultimately, a cultural shift towards open dialogue and understanding.
References:
Sexual Assault Statistics | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/213503.pdf
http://www.unicef.org/protection/files/BehindClosedDoo
http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/cdc_nisvs_overview_insert_final-a.pdf
https://www.thehotline.org/stakeholders/domestic-violence-statistics/https://ovc.ojp.gov/2023-report-nation/elder-abuse-financial-exploitation
https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/statistics







