Rights and Remedies

25 Episodes
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By: Allison Mahoney

Rights and Remedies is your go-to podcast for survivors, advocates, and those wanting to explore the legal and human dimensions of sexual abuse, cyber abuse, domestic violence, and child welfare. Each episode unpacks the complexities of these issues, examines the civil rights challenges affecting vulnerable populations, and highlights the innovative approaches to making a difference. Tune in for expert insights, powerful stories, and a roadmap to healing and justice. Disclaimer:The views and opinions shared in this interview belong solely to the participants and do not represent the official stance of any affiliated organizations or partners. Discussions are dynamic and...

Two-Time Weinstein Witness Speaks of Testifying Against Power with Liz Entin | Ep 24
Today at 11:00 AM

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I speak with Liz Entin - entrepreneur, podcast host, and a secondary witness in both New York trials against Harvey Weinstein. 

Liz shares her experience testifying in one of the most high-profile sexual assault cases in recent history and offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on what it’s like to be part of the legal process as a witness.

We explore the emotional, mental, and legal challenges of testifying, the unexpected empowerment she found in cross-examination, and the viral moment involving her Chihuahua and Weinstein.

Liz als...


The Cyclical Healing Journey After Abuse with Choichun Leung | Ep 23
09/04/2025

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I speak with multi-disciplinary artist from Brooklyn, Choichun Leung about the deeply personal and often complex journey of healing from childhood sexual abuse. 

Choichun shares how suppressed memories surfaced later in life, especially after becoming a mother, and how art became both her outlet and her guide through recovery.

We explore the origins of her Young Girl Project, work that began with unfinished sketches and evolved into a graphic-style exploration of trauma, memory, and emotional truth. 

Choichun opens up about the cyclical nature of healing, the po...


What It’s Like to Represent Victims of Sexual Harm with Elizabeth Payne + Emily Jones from CAASE | Ep 22
08/21/2025

In this episode of Rights & Remedies, I sit down with Elizabeth Payne and Emily Jones from the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE) to explore what legal advocacy really looks like for survivors of sexual harm.

We dig into the criminal vs. civil legal systems and the massive disconnect between what survivors expect and what actually happens when they report.

From how prosecutors aren’t your personal attorney to the overwhelming silence many face after filing a report, Elizabeth and Emily explain why their victim-centered legal work is so necessary and how they’re helping surv...


How AI and Data Could Transform Criminal Justice with Allison Pierre | Ep 21
08/07/2025

What happens when a former federal prosecutor turns reformer, and uses data and AI to change the system from the inside out?

This week on Rights and Remedies, host Alison Mahoney is joined by Allison Pierre, founder of Innovative Prosecution Consulting. After years working at the Brooklyn DA’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in D.C., Allison pivoted to fight for fairness in a different way: helping prosecutors and public defenders harness the power of data and AI to improve outcomes, reduce bias, and deliver justice more effectively.

We cover:

Why...


Exposing the Truth About the Troubled Teen Industry with Founder of Unsilenced with Meg Appelgate | Ep 20
07/24/2025

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I’m joined by Meg Applegate, CEO of UNSILENCED, a nonprofit dedicated to ending institutional child abuse in the so-called "troubled teen" industry.

Meg shares her harrowing story of being abducted at age 15 and held in two residential facilities for over three years. She details her long journey of waking up to the abuse she experienced, and how that healing process ultimately led her to create UNSILENCED, one of the most active survivor-led organizations in this space.

Together, we discuss:

What the “troubled teen industry” really is - and...


How Writing a Book Helps You Heal After Trauma with Dani Fankhauser | Ep 19
07/10/2025

In this episode, I sit down with Dani Fankhauser - writer and intuitive coach - to explore how writing can be a transformative tool for healing.

Together, we delve into:

Dani's experience of writing and its impact on her healing journeyThe role of intuition and spirituality in the writing processHow writing can serve as a form of self-discovery and empowermentPractical advice for aspiring writers looking to tell their own stories

Whether you're a writer, a survivor, or someone seeking to understand the healing power of storytelling, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of w...


One Leader’s Mission to Support Survivors in Colorado’s Mountain Towns with Shannon Meyer | Ep 18
06/26/2025

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shannon Meyer, the Executive Director of Response, a nonprofit doing critical work with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking here in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley.

Shannon’s path to this work is unlike any I’ve heard - she came from a background in environmental conservation and ended up leading a survivor services organization through a period of major transformation. We talked about what it’s really like to run a domestic violence shelter in a small mountain community, and the unique challeng...


Survivor of Reproductive Coercion: Why He "Just Forgot” Wasn't a Valid Excuse - with Lynn Stroud | Ep 17
06/12/2025

Trigger warning: This episode contains detailed discussions of domestic violence, reproductive coercion, and sexual assault. Please listen with care.

In this raw and unflinching conversation, Lynn Stroud shares her powerful story of surviving reproductive coercion, intimate partner violence, and the long journey from silence to advocacy. 

What started as a seemingly small betrayal became a pivotal moment that exposed the deeper patterns of control, abuse, and manipulation she endured for years.

Now a seasoned paralegal and outspoken advocate, Lynn breaks down:

What reproductive coercion actually looks like (and why it’s s...


What It’s Really Like to Rebuild After Narcissistic Abuse & Trauma with Lorene Roberts | Ep 16
05/29/2025

TW: This episode contains discussion of emotional abuse, narcissism, and trauma. Please take care while listening.

What does it really take to rebuild your life after narcissistic abuse and deep emotional trauma? 

In this powerful episode, holistic counselor, author, and podcast host Lorene Roberts opens up about her personal journey from feeling completely broken to finding emotional freedom, and now helping others do the same.

We dive into:

The signs of narcissistic abuse most people miss (especially when there’s no physical violence)How Lorene’s daughter gave her the wake...


Found Your Photo Online? Here’s What To Do Before You Delete Anything | Ep 15
05/15/2025

If you’ve just discovered an intimate photo or video of yourself online without your consent, take a breath - you are not alone, and there is a way forward.

When you're hit with the shock of finding an intimate image shared without your consent, the instinct is clear: make it disappear, fast.

But here’s the hard truth: deleting too quickly could erase the very evidence you need to take legal action, get the content removed, or hold the person responsible accountable.

Whether you're thinking about taking civil action, reporting to the poli...


We Are the Evidence: Empowering Survivors of Sexual Assault with Cheyenne Wilson | Ep 14
05/01/2025

Warning: This episode contains discussion of sexual assault.

When writer and activist Cheyenne Tyler Jacobs was sexually assaulted by someone she knew and trusted, she began a journey that was painful, confusing, and deeply transformational. 

She reported to police, went through a two-year legal process, and along the way, realized how few meaningful, survivor-centered resources were available. So she created her own.

In this episode of Rights + Remedies, Cheyenne shares the story behind her powerful book, We Are the Evidence - a resource guide for survivors filled with real-world i...


Fighting for Survivors, Hurdles, and Navigating the Criminal Justice System: Insights from a Retired SVU Detective, Justin Boardman | Ep 13
04/17/2025

Warning: This episode contains discussion of sexual assault, including the sexual abuse of minors.

In this powerful episode of Rights + Remedies, I'm joined by Justin Boardman, retired detective and nationally recognised advocate for trauma-informed policing. 

Justin Boardman served as a detective in the Special Victims Unit for 15 years. Today, he’s a national speaker, consultant, and advocate for trauma-informed practices in gender-based violence cases. He co-authored a trauma-informed interview protocol that’s been proven to increase prosecutions, and now helps communities and justice professionals shift culture, improve investigations, and centre survivor experiences.

I...


Navigating the Foster Care System with Child Welfare Law Specialist | Ep 12
04/03/2025

***TRIGGER WARNING: Child Abuse and Child Neglect***

The foster care system is complex, and for many families, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming.

In this episode of Rights + Remedies, Jill Roth-Gutman, a Child Welfare Law Specialist and experienced attorney, breaks down the key aspects of child welfare law and foster care.

Jill shares:
🔹 What actually happens in court during a foster care case
🔹 The steps to becoming a licensed foster home
🔹 The adoption process, and how foster children move toward permanency
🔹 Her work as a Guardian ad Litem in...


Insights on Residential Foster Care from the CEO of Children's Harbor with Tiffani Dhooge | Ep 11
03/20/2025

***TRIGGER WARNING: Child Abuse and Child Neglect***

Teenagers in foster care face an uphill battle - not just in finding placements but in overcoming the trauma they’ve endured.

In this episode of Rights + Remedies, I sit down with Tiffani Dhooge, a relentless advocate for at-risk youth and CEO of Children’s Harbor, to discuss the realities of foster care and the power of community in healing trauma.

Tiffani shares:
🔹 How her career started in the broom closet of a foster care agency and led to national recognition
🔹 W...


Cyber Safety 101: Navigating Risks + Legal Challenges in the Digital Age with Lindsay Lieberman | Ep 10
03/06/2025

***TRIGGER WARNING: Cyber Sexual Abuse and Sexual Abuse***

In today's episode, I'm joined by Lindsay Lieberman, attorney and founder of Lindsay Lieberman, LLC, a legal and consulting firm dedicated to advocating for victims of cyber abuse. 

From sextortion to deep fakes, Lindsay works to support survivors and educate parents, schools, and law enforcement on the dangers of digital harm.

We discuss:

How cyber abuse impacts victims of sexual and domestic violenceWhy parents often underestimate online risks — and what they need to knowThe rise of AI-generated fake images and how they thr...


The Intersection of Domestic Violence & Cyber Abuse | Ep 9
02/20/2025

In this episode, I'll shed light on the growing intersection of domestic violence and cyber abuse. While domestic violence is often thought of as physical or emotional harm, digital abuse is an increasing tool used by perpetrators to assert control, seek revenge, and punish victims.

Today, I'll be talking about:

The different types of domestic violence and their digital counterpartsThe dangers of deep fakes, doxing, revenge porn, sextortion, and image-based sexual abuseShocking statistics: 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience domestic violence in the U.S.The devastating impact of digital abuse - including anxiety, depression, suicidal...


You Have the Power: Healing From Narcissistic Abuse and Reclaiming Your Power | Ep 8
02/07/2025

In this episode, I'm joined by somatic trauma-informed coach Darla Radilla to discuss the journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and reclaiming your power.

Darla shares her personal experiences of surviving an abusive childhood and multiple toxic relationships, and how she turned her pain into a mission to help others.

We Explore:

The signs of narcissistic abuse, including the love-bomb, devalue, discard cycle.How our bodies often know when something isn’t right - and why it’s crucial to trust your gut.The impact of psychological, financial, and social isolation caused by n...


Relational & Trauma-Focused Healing with the Founder of the Thriving Woman Institute | Ep 7
01/23/2025

Today, I'm sitting down with Kahila Hedayatzadeh, founder of the Thriving Woman Institute, to explore the intersection of therapy and coaching for trauma-focused healing. 

As a seasoned psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in trauma healing and relational therapy, Kahila shares her unique approach to helping adults heal relational wounds, face their trauma, and build the skills to navigate life with resilience.

What You’ll Learn:

The difference between "big trauma" and "little trauma" and how relational wounds from childhood, adolescence, or adulthood shape us.How therapy and coaching together can cre...


Healing From Betrayal with Dr. Debi Silber
#6
01/09/2025

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I sit down with Dr. Debbie Silber, the founder of the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute. Dr. Silber shares her journey of transforming personal betrayal into groundbreaking research, and she discusses how she built a supportive community that helps individuals and couples heal from betrayal. Her work focuses on moving beyond the victim narrative and fostering intentional growth and transformation.

Trigger Warning

This episode includes discussions about abusive relationships and betrayal. If this topic is sensitive for you, please take care while listening or skip...


An Overview of Foster Care in the US
#5
01/02/2025

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, Allison Mahoney gives us a closer look at the U.S. foster care system. With nearly 400,000 children currently in foster care, Allison walks through the system’s structure, from federal to local levels, and explains how children enter foster care and what happens while they’re in the system.

Trigger Warning

This episode discuss sensitive topics related to child abuse and neglect. Please take care while listening if these topics are difficult for you.

Here’s What We Discuss:

How the Fo...


Daniel's Voice: Advocating for Male Victims of Domestic Violence
#4
12/26/2024

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, Allison Mahoney talks with Linee Walker and Lillie Floyd, the passionate founders of Daniel's Voice. The organization was created in memory of Linee’s son, Daniel, whose life was tragically cut short by domestic violence. Together, Linee and Lillie are working to ensure that male victims and their families find the support and understanding they need.

Trigger Warning

This episode includes discussions regarding domestic violence. If this topic is sensitive for you, please take care while listening or skip this episode.

He...


Florida's Privatized Foster Care System with Mari Frankel
#3
12/19/2024

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, I sit down with Mari Frankel, a guardian ad litem in Florida and the filmmaker behind Foster Shock. Frankel shares her eye-opening journey into the foster care system after witnessing a devastating news story about two abused foster children. Her experiences advocating for vulnerable youth inspired her to create a documentary that reveals the hidden challenges and systemic failures within the privatized foster care system. 

Trigger Warning: 

[This episode includes discussions about child abuse, neglect, and systemic failures within the foster care system, which may be up...


Warehouses of Neglect: Abuse in U.S. Residential Foster Care Facilities
#2
12/05/2024

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, we examine the deeply troubling findings of a recent U.S. Senate Committee report on foster care residential treatment facilities: “Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities.”

These congregate care facilities are supposed to provide care and support for some of our most vulnerable youth. Instead, facilities owned by four companies—Universal Health Services (“UHS”), Acadia Healthcare, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, and Vivant Behavioral Healthcare (or Sequel Youth and Family Services)—prioritize profit over the safety and wellbeing of children.  

We discuss the a...


A Family Legacy: Child Welfare in the 1920’s
#1
12/05/2024

In this episode, Allison shares the story of her paternal grandmother, Helen Mahoney, and her grandmother’s experience in the child welfare system in the United States in the early 1920’s. As a young child, Helen was placed in St. Joseph's Home for the Friendless, an orphanage in Chicago, following the death of her mother. Allison explores the impact of Helen's upbringing on their family and draws parallels between her grandmother's experience and the ongoing challenges faced by children in today's foster care system. Through this personal narrative, Allison emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the invisible struggles of y...


Welcome to Rights and Remedies
10/27/2024

Rights and Remedies is your go-to podcast for survivors, advocates, and those wanting to explore the legal and human dimensions of sexual abuse, cyber abuse, domestic violence, and child welfare. Each episode unpacks the complexities of these issues, examines the civil rights challenges affecting vulnerable populations, and highlights the innovative approaches to making a difference. Tune in for expert insights, powerful stories, and a roadmap to healing and justice.Â