Bar Fights

Join us for a very special episode of Bar Fights where Sarah sits down with her youngest daughter for a precious chat, getting a three-year-old's perspective on how grown-ups keep kids safe. This episode reminds us all of the innocence of childhood and why we all need to be doing our part to protect kids! #sokidsstaykids

V (Formerly Eve Ensler)

Join us for a very special episode of Bar Fights with Tony award winning playwright, author, and activist – V (formerly Eve Ensler).  From her 1996 play, "The Vagina Monologues," to her 2019 publication "The Apology," a fictionalized letter of penance from her father, V has dedicated her life, art, and career to raising awareness for and ending violence against girls and women. Tune in to hear how V has found the words, the voice, and the strength to liberate herself through her work and provide so many survivors with the courage and tools to regain their own freedom as well.

Rewind: Sarah sits down with Allyson McCabe, author of "Why Sinead O'Connor Matters." In a profound conversation about the artist's impactful career, they explore Sinead O'Connor's courageous activism during the 1990s, including her iconic moments of protest and the backlash she endured for speaking out against systemic issues like child abuse and religious authority. This episode delves into the broader cultural context of O'Connor's actions, highlighting the challenges of addressing sensitive subjects and the healing potential of open dialogue, ultimately emphasizing the transformative power of addressing painful truths for positive change.

Terri Cole Part 2

Join us for part 2 of Terri Cole's interview! We're expanding on last week's discussion with this acclaimed psychotherapist about High Functioning Codependency (HFC) and hearing about Terri's personal journey with codependency and the path she took to recovery. In her new book, "TOO MUCH," Terri teaches the steps that HFC's can take to rehabilitate their relational patterns and reclaim their own peace. Terri's latest publication "TOO MUCH: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High-Functioning Codependency" is available for pre-order at https://www.terricole.com/

Terri Cole Part 1

This week on Bar Fights, we’re welcoming back licensed psychotherapist and author – Terri Cole. In honor of her new book, “TOO MUCH: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High Functioning Codependency,” Terri explains how self-abandonment lies at the core of codependency and shares her expertise for those who struggle with it and how they can overcome.   

Terri’s latest publication “TOO MUCH: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High-Functioning Codependency” is available for pre-order at https://www.terricole.com/

Kayleigh Kozak Part 2

“The trauma that comes when you are a survivor is unexplainable unless you’ve been through it.” Join us for part 2 of Sarah’s interview with Kayleigh Kozak where the dynamic duo unpacks the emotional toll of childhood sexual assault and how it can persist well into adulthood. This trauma is often aggravated by the policies that are currently set in place that proclaim to protect survivors, but often have loopholes that protect abusers and force victims to relive their abuse while depriving them of the justice they are owed. Thankfully, we have advocates like Sarah Klein and Kayleigh Kozak who work tirelessly on behalf of victims and survivors to make sure they are properly represented and protected! For more information about Kayleigh’s Law, please visit https://becauseyoustillmatter.com/kayleighs-law   Kayleigh has recently partnered with “We The Studios,” an online streaming platform featuring family focused TV content! Kayleigh’s new project with “We The Studios” is set to come out in 2025. Check them out at https://wethestudios.com/

"A victim should never have to go back and reface their convicted abuser to ask for protection." This week on Bar Fights, Sarah sits down with fellow CSA survivor, advocate, and policy maker- Kayleigh Kozak. In this illuminating interview, Kayleigh details her mission to establish Kayleigh's Law – a bill that grants victims and survivors of sexual and domestic abuse the option to obtain a lifetime injunction or a permanent restraining order against their perpetrator. For more information, please visit https://becauseyoustillmatter.com/kayleighs-law

Kayleigh has recently partnered with "We The Studios," an online streaming platform featuring family focused TV content! Kayleigh's new project with "We The Studios" is set to come out in 2025. Check them out at https://wethestudios.com/

Today on Bar Fights, we're reposting one of our favorite interviews with Lauren Sivan, a former New York TV news reporter who is among more than 100 women who have accused media mogul Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment.

Get ready for a thought-provoking episode of the Bar Fights podcast with guest speaker Lauren Sivan, as she joins host Sarah Klein to discuss her personal experience with Harvey Weinstein. Lauren shares how she initially felt like she was alone in her experience, but later realized that there were many others who had been subjected to similar mistreatment. Tune in as Lauren sheds light on the toxic culture of Hollywood and the long-standing abuses of power that have gone unchecked for too long.

Rewind: Lauren Sivan

Rewind: Today on Bar Fights, we're reposting one of our favorite interviews with Lauren Sivan, a former New York TV news reporter who is among more than 100 women who have accused media mogul Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment.

Get ready for a thought-provoking episode of the Bar Fights podcast with guest speaker Lauren Sivan, as she joins host Sarah Klein to discuss her personal experience with Harvey Weinstein. Lauren shares how she initially felt like she was alone in her experience, but later realized that there were many others who had been subjected to similar mistreatment. Tune in as Lauren sheds light on the toxic culture of Hollywood and the long-standing abuses of power that have gone unchecked for too long.

 "Rewind: Erin Merryn (Part 1)" :

Rewind - Today on Bar Fights we're reposting Sarah's inspiring interview with child abuse advocate and activist Erin Merryn. As a CSA survivor, it took many tumultuous years for Erin to find her voice, but once she did, there was nothing that could stop her from using it as a force for change. Since 2013, Erin has steadfastly shared her story to bring awareness to the horrors of child sexual abuse and demand every state to integrate prevention-oriented child sexual abuse education in schools. Erin's Law is currently enacted in 38 states, and she is actively working on the other 12. Listen in to hear Erin's story in part 1 of her interview with Sarah and see for yourself just how powerful one voice can be.

Erin Merryn is an internationally recognized author, speaker, and child abuse advocate and activist and the founder and President of Erin's Law, a national non-profit dedicated to mandating prevention-oriented child sexual abuse education in public schools in all 50 states.  Learn more at https://www.erinslaw.org/.  

Don't forget to breathe! Join us this week on Bar Fights as we welcome former Stanford physician and professor and best-selling author – Dr. Greg Hammer. Sarah sits down with Dr. Hammer to discuss his wellness expedition which would later inspire him to write his best-selling book "GAIN without Pain: The Happiness Handbook for Health Care Professionals." Dr. Hammer's mindfulness methods are applicable to anyone looking to take control of their mental health and embark on a happier more peaceful life! Learn more at https://greghammermd.com/

"It really does take a village!" Today on Bar Fights we're sitting down with author, personal growth strategist, and philanthropist Florence Ann Romano as we unpack what it truly means to establish, nurture, and maintain community. Florence Ann's latest publication "Build Your Village: A Guide to Finding Joy and Community in Every Stage of Life" provides a much-needed roadmap to how we can identify who and what we need to have a reliable support system to carry us through every season of life. For more information about Florence Ann and where you can buy her book visit: https://florenceann.com/book/

This week on Bar Fights we're bringing back Bridgette Caporaso for another empowering episode of our summer fun series! Tune in to hear how Bridgette found her footing by learning to trust her gut, honor her goals, and embrace the power of the word "no." Bridgette's story is a prime example of just how far women can go when they are committed to making it happen! For more information, visit https://sketchdesignstudio.com/

Kicking off its summer fun series, Bar Fights is taking on issues that matter, but keeping it a little lighter this summer season! Today, Sarah talks with Bridgette Caporaso, a powerhouse entrepreneur who broke the mold to build her company, Sketch a Design Studio, from the ground up into a highly successful company.  For more information, visit https://sketchdesignstudio.com/

This week on Bar Fights, Sarah continues her conversation with fierce advocate and survivor Sky Boschen. Sky unpacks using her story for good by pouring her energy into advocacy and education to keep kids safe. Sarah and Sky dive deep into the necessity of personal body-safety education for children, so that they can have the resources and knowledge to protect themselves against and identify predators in this ever-changing landscape of the online world. For more information about Sky and her story, visit https://www.skylerboschen.com/

Sky Boschen Part 1 

Today’s episode is a must for every parent of a child under the age of 18.  Sarah invites Bar Fights listener Sky Boschen to share her eye-opening story on the podcast today. This courageous 22 year old survivor and advocate was abused as a child and then sextorted by a poseur on social media- all before the age of 15. Her story reveals how incredibly crafty predators can be and reminds us all how critical it is to keep the channels of communication open so that the truth can be told and heard. For more information, visit https://www.skylerboschen.com/

Rewind - On this edition of Bar Fights, Sarah welcomes New York Times bestselling author, Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt, to discuss her uplifting book — The Gift of Forgiveness: Inspiring Stories from Those Who Have Overcome the Unforgivable. Sarah, who was one of the many interviews Katherine conducted for the project, talks candidly about her own experience with shedding resentment, and Katherine shares her tips on how to keep life from getting too overwhelming.

Sexual educator and researcher Dr. Debby Herbenick talks with Sarah about the uptrend in concerning sexual conduct among young people today that prompted her latest book, Yes, Your Kid: What Parents Need to Know About Today’s Teens and Sex. Listen in as Sarah and Dr Herbenick discuss the shocking trends that Dr Herbenick’ s research has revealed and some of the practical, collective solutions we can apply to our collective problem. Silence is not always golden; we all have to talk about the issue if we want to make a change.

Dr. Debby Herbenick is a Provost Professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion, and an AASECT-certified sexuality educator. Her newest book is Yes, Your Kid: What Parents Need to Know About Today’s Teens and Sex. Dr. Herbenick’ s research focuses on women’s sexual health, US population-representative research, as well as trends in sexual attitudes and behaviors. She has published more than 200 peer-reviewed scientific articles related to sexual and reproductive health and serves as Principal Investigator of the award-winning National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, which has been ongoing since 2009. Learn more at https://www.debbyherbenick.com

Distinguished psychologist and neuroscientist Dr. Kate Truitt takes her expert hat off and lets her hair down in today’s candid conversation with Sarah. The bestselling author of Healing in Your Hands and the new title Keep Beathing lays bare her personal odyssey through loss and trauma as well as the key to her renewal- the realization that she wasn’t the problem; her brain was. Wired from years of trauma to keep her ‘safe’, “Amy the Amygdala” was actually keeping her caught in a cycle of negative, intrusive thoughts. Listen to Sarah and Dr. Kate talk about the tenacity of that cycle and how to break it. Two phoenixes in their own right, Sarah and Dr Kate get raw and real, inviting all cycle breakers to join their odyssey (Thanks to Dr. Kate, we now know that a group of phoenixes is called an odyssey!). Learn more at www.DrKateTruitt.com

“Relationship skills are not innate. We go where the young people are, give them the space to talk about their relationships, and help them build the skills to ensure those relationships are healthy,” DayOne Executive Director Anne Patterson tells Sarah. On today’s show, Anne and DayOne Board Chair Laura Dukess break down those relationship skills and the education, supportive services, legal advocacy, and leadership development that DayOne provides NYC youth age 24 and under who are struggling with gender-based violence.  Learn more at https://dayoneny.org/  

DayOne’s annual Voices Against Violence Gala will be held this June 13th at Guastavino’s in New York City. https://dayoneny.org/events/voices-against-violence/

“Love should always be safe” is the tagline for Day One, a New York City nonprofit working to end gender-based violence and the shame and trauma that lurk in its shadow by nipping it in the bud.  Sarah sits down with Executive Director Anne Patterson and Chairman of the Board Laura Dukess to discuss their organization’s efforts to end abuse by teaching elementary, middle school, and high school students the skills needed to build healthy relationships, as well as the myriad supportive services they offer to anyone under the age of 24 who has experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.

Day One is a non-profit offering services to NYC youth age 24 and under. Our mission is to partner with youth to end dating abuse and domestic violence through community education, supportive services, legal advocacy, and leadership development. Learn more at https://dayoneny.org/

Support our cause by attending or sponsoring our annual  DayOne Voices Against Violence Gala this June 13th at Guastavino’s in New York City. https://dayoneny.org/events/voices-against-violence/

One woman’s story, and one woman’s moxie has protected countless children, and Erin Merryn is not done yet.

Six year old Erin was too young to know what sexual abuse was, much less how to talk about it, so she remained silent as her abuse went on for seven years. In part 2 of her conversation with Sarah, Erin explains why she created Erin’s Law, and how she has muscled through resistance from parents, school officials, and legislators to protect children like her younger self by requiring all public schools in each state to implement a prevention-orients sexual abuse program. Listen in to hear just some of the many examples of Erin’s Law’s staggering effect- New York killed her bill for eight straight years. When she finally got it passed, nine young boys came forward separately on the day the program was first offered at their school in Albany, NY. Their stories were very similar. Why? Because their own principal had been molesting them for years.

Erin’s Law has been passed in 38 states. The other 12 are in her sights.

About Erin Merryn

Erin Merryn is an internationally recognized author, speaker, and child abuse advocate and activist and the founder and President of Erin’s Law, a national non-profit dedicated to mandating prevention-oriented child sexual abuse education in public schools in all 50 states.  Learn more at https://www.erinslaw.org. 

Today’s Bar Fights guest, Erin Merryn, is a testament to the power of a story to move mountains. It took many tumultuous years for Erin to find her voice after having been repeatedly abused for six years of her childhood. Once she found it, though, there’s been no stopping her from using her voice as a compelling force for good. Since 2013, Erin has steadfastly shared her story to press every state to mandate prevention-oriented child sexual abuse education in schools, and she is making real headway. Erin’s Law is currently enacted in 38 states, and she is actively working on the other 12. Listen in to hear Erin’s story in part 1 of her interview with Sarah, and judge for yourself just how powerful a voice can be.

Erin Merryn is an internationally recognized author, speaker, and child abuse advocate and activist and the founder and President of Erin’s Law, a national non-profit dedicated to mandating prevention-oriented child sexual abuse education in public schools in all 50 states.  Learn more at https://www.erinslaw.org/.  

Today, Sarah brings on Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes, for a robust conversation about keeping our children safe in digital spaces. Tune in to learn about the 5 layers of digital protection (Spoiler alert- the second layer involves your router), which are the riskiest social media apps and why, and the urgent responsibility we have to hold the entities who profit from the digital space accountable for our children’s safety within that space.  “We are responsible for our children’s future wellness, not their current happiness.” Chris McKenna

Check out the resources page at https://protectyoungeyes.com/ to learn more about digital safety measures you can take.

Sarah and trauma psychotherapist and relationship expert Dr. Janie Lacy delve into the self-sabotaging patterns programmed into our subconscious by childhood trauma, how to recognize those patterns, unravel their roots, and do the work to reprogram them. Key take-aways from their inspiring conversation 1) Although our programming is not our fault, our healing is our responsibility. 2) Mutual support and unity are empowering; community is healing. Build one if you don’t have one already.

Dr. Janie Lacy is an internationally recognized licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert, TLC TV Show co-star, accomplished speaker, and champion for women globally. Learn more at https://www.janielacy.com/

In part 2 of their interview, Sarah and Diane share words of wisdom for keeping our children safe and keeping the doors of communication with them open when it comes to uncomfortable topics. On the table today- the two most common mistakes parents make when it comes to their child’s safety, sextortion, and why our kids are watching pornography, what are they learning from it, and how they are they acting it out. 

Diane Tarantini is a child sex abuse survivor, author of the children’s book, The Brave Knight, and a Body Safety Educator. Learn more at https://dianetarantini.com/

Sarah sits down with Body Safety Educator and author Diane Tarantini to discuss the crucial education that Diane and her colleagues provide our school children to help keep them safe from predators’ insidious grooming. What are a groomer’s tactics? What should every parent be asking their child’s school? Listen in for the answers.

Diane Tarantini is a child sex abuse survivor, author of the children’s book, The Brave Knight, and a Body Safety Educator. Learn more at https://dianetarantini.com/

Listen in as Sarah and Marvin discuss the hard-earned lessons in self-determination, gratitude, and the law of reciprocity that earned Marvin a “PhD in Progress” and the small steps he takes every day to maintain that progress in part 2 of their conversation on Bar Fights.

Epic “Battles, Breakthroughs, and New Beginnings” are on the agenda as Sarah talks with author, renowned speaker, and ex-FBI agent Marvin Peake in this week’s awe-inspiring episode. Turning victimhood on its head, Marvin describes the gift he has found in the brutal circumstances that cut and shaped him to be the man he is today. The tenacity, resilience, ingenuity, and self-determination he needed to survive a childhood on the streets, extreme poverty, and abuse have carried him “Out of the Tunnel” to the heights of success.

Marvin Peake is the author of Out of the Tunnel: An Epic Tale of Battles, Breakthroughs, and New Beginnings. Visit him at https://marvinpeake.com/.

In part 2 of their discussion, Sarah and Nicole talk about the powerful impact that one small voice can have when you are willing to say hard things, the “gift of going second,” the responsibility of healing, and the sacred space that survivors have found in Nicole’s weekly e-course, UNLEASH.

An advocate, activist, and survivor of child sexual abuse, Nicole Braddock Bromley is the founder of https://www.iamonevoice.org/ and the founder and Executive Director of https://www.onevoice4freedom.org/. Learn more about UNLEASH, her 8-week course and online cohort for survivors of sexual abuse, at https://www.iamonevoice.org/unleash.

On today’s episode of Bar Fights, Sarah talks with advocate and activist Nicole Braddock Bromley about how an unexpected confession in front of 300 teens at summer camp ultimately spurred her to start her nonprofit, OneVOICE, the power she has found in her endurance as a CSA survivor, and why EMDR and her dog are her favorite go-to therapies.

An advocate, activist, and survivor of child sexual abuse, Nicole is the founder of https://www.iamonevoice.org/ and the founder and Executive Director of https://www.onevoice4freedom.org/ . Learn more about UNLEASH, her 8-week course and online cohort for survivors of sexual abuse, at https://www.iamonevoice.org/unleash.

In part 2 of this interview, Stephen details the catharsis that comes with taking legal action and pursuing justice in the hopes of leaving this world safer than how he found it.

Sarah Klein sits down for a crucial conversation about accountability, healing, and the urgent need to confront institutional failures with friend, and fellow survivor, Stephen Mills, author of the deeply moving memoir, Chosen: A Memoir of Stolen Boyhood.  

On Episode 54 of Bar Fights, Sarah once again engages in a conversation about the concern of child exploitation, this time with filmmaker, impact investor, and philanthropist Nighat Shah. Nighat is dedicated to using film to raise awareness about child labor, citing her journey from Pakistan as the driving force in her social justice filmmaking, specifically her film "Gunjal" ("Entangled"). Delve into their eye-opening discussion about the link between child labor and sexual assault, the unsettling trend of relaxing child labor laws in certain US states, and the urgent call for awareness, education, and social responsibility to eradicate this issue. This episode will inspire every listener to become an informed consumer, support ethical companies, and champion the well-being of children globally.

On Episode 53 of Bar Fights, Sarah sits down with Allyson McCabe, author of "Why Sinead O'Connor Matters." In a profound conversation about the artist's impactful career, they explore Sinead O'Connor's courageous activism during the 1990s, including her iconic moments of protest and the backlash she endured for speaking out against systemic issues like child abuse and religious authority. This episode delves into the broader cultural context of O'Connor's actions, highlighting the challenges of addressing sensitive subjects and the healing potential of open dialogue, ultimately emphasizing the transformative power of addressing painful truths for positive change.

On episode 52 of Bar Fights, Sarah welcomes Michel Bryant, a journalist, attorney, and broadcaster with extensive experience in legal analysis and coverage. Michel discusses his transition from practicing law to TV, where he produces shows like "I Survived a Crime" and "Taking the Stand." He shares how "I Survived a Crime" explores diverse paths to survival and adds insight into high-profile cases such as Johnny Depp and Alex Murdaugh, highlighting the significance of defendants taking the witness stand by citing cases where likability played a role in jury outcomes.

In this week's not-to-miss episode, Sarah sits down for a conversation with Nat Glover, a remarkable man born in 1943 in the segregated city of Jacksonville, Florida. Despite the challenging circumstances, Nat rose to prominence and earned immense respect as the first Black man to have been elected sheriff in Florida’s Deep South in over 100 years and one of the nation's most esteemed law enforcement professionals. Nat discusses his life experiences, including a traumatic incident during a sit-in demonstration and an unjust arrest that almost derailed his path to becoming a police officer. Nat guides listeners through his leadership philosophy, the importance of credibility, and seeking guidance from trusted mentors. Be sure to check out Nat's upcoming book, "Striving for Justice: A Black Sheriff in the Deep South," available everywhere on August 22nd!

In this inspiring episode of Bar Fights, Sarah chats with Terri Cole, a licensed psychotherapist and relationship empowerment expert. Author of Boundary Boss: The Essential Guide to Talk True, Be Seen, and (Finally) Live Free. Terri shares insights into authenticity, boundaries, and establishing healthy human relationships — especially the one with ourselves.

This week join Sarah and Dawn Hawkins, CEO of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, for part 2 of this thought-provoking episode, as they delve deeper into the crucial topic of protecting children from sexual exploitation. Building upon the previous discussion on the "dirty dozen list," which highlights influential companies or organizations that are either making positive changes for our kids or need to improve, Dawn sheds light on the remarkable work her organization is undertaking.

Get ready for a compelling episode with Sarah and Dawn Hawkins, CEO of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. Explore the organization's vital efforts in protecting children from sexual exploitation and delve into valuable insights on how to safeguard your kids in the digital age. This is a discussion you won't want to miss, addressing a crucial issue that demands our attention.

In today's episode of Bar Fights, Court Tv reporter, Emmy award winner, lawyer and former prosecutor Vinnie Politan joins Sarah to talk about the premise of his upcoming show, Accomplice to Murder with Vinnie Politan. Sarah and Vinnie explore the concept of accomplices in criminal cases, how our justice system treats them and why they often end up being relatively ordinary people with no motive for committing the crime, pointing to a fascinating pattern in the relationships of these accomplices. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to gain a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system.

On today's episode, Sarah is joined by Lisa Bryant, award-winning director, showrunner, producer and development executive with 25 years of experience in documentary television, news, entertainment and sports, to discuss the shocking world of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Lisa discusses her experience in creating the award-winning Netflix documentaries, Jeffrey Epstein:  Filthy Rich and Ghislaine Maxwell:  Filthy Rich and what she discovered during the filming process as she and Sarah take a deep dive into the psyche of the two infamous predators.

In today’s episode of Bar Fights, we have the pleasure of Part 2 with award-winning human rights activist and attorney, Yasmin Vafa. She and Sarah delve into the troubling issue of the abuse-to-prison pipeline. Yasmin sheds light on how young women of color are disproportionately affected by this systemic problem and has also uncovered another pattern - an overwhelming majority of girls in the juvenile justice system have experienced sexual abuse prior to being incarcerated.

In today’s episode of Bar Fights, host Sarah Klein speaks with award-winning human rights activist and attorney Yasmin Vafa about sex workers, sex trafficking of underage girls and the laws that impact these communities. Yasmin Vafa shares her knowledge on the types of sex workers, their consumers, and the laws that can either help or hurt them. She sheds light on how these laws disproportionately impact people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and young people/children who are often the most vulnerable to sex trafficking. Through their conversation, Sarah and Yasmin delve into the complexities of the sex industry, discussing stigmatization and criminalization.

On this episode, Sarah is joined by Dr. Thema Bryant, a clinical psychologist and president of the American Psychological Association. With her extensive experience in the field of trauma and healing, Dr. Thema shares her insights on the profound impact of stress on the body, and how it can hinder our ability to connect with ourselves and others. Sarah and Dr. Thema delve into the different modalities of healing, empowerment, self love and practical strategies for individuals to reconnect with their bodies and begin the healing process. With her compassionate and knowledgeable approach, she provides a wealth of information and resources for listeners to begin or continue their own journey towards healing.

In this extra special episode of Bar Fights, personal friend, author, and survivor Jennifer Storm joins Sarah Klein to share her story of overcoming childhood traumas and addiction, and the journey of healing that led her to become a victim's rights expert and consultant. As a survivor and the author of six critically acclaimed books, Jennifer provides a unique perspective on the process of healing and post-traumatic growth.

In this powerful episode of Bar Fights, Yous'sima Rose joins Sarah to talk about the journey through her traumatic past and her mission to encourage others in healing. Yous'sima's incredible story of overcoming childhood abuse, toxic relationships, and various adversities including a suicide attempt, chronic illness, and mental health struggles will leave you inspired and motivated. Her humble perspective and heart-centered approach to healing and empowering others makes her an infectious light to be around.

Steve Simpson, a New York media veteran and nationally recognized, award-winning child advocate, joins Sarah this week to share his personal journey of overcoming thoughts of suicide. From his childhood experience and understanding of the abuser mentality to what signs we can watch out for, Steve is on a mission to help others through what he's learned. His message of hope and prevention is one that needs to be heard.

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Revolutionary recovery expert, inspirational speaker and best-selling author TJ Woodward joins Sarah to talk about the dynamics of trauma, unconscious programming, core beliefs, healing and forgiveness, and how each of these play a role in addiction. His personal journey through addiction recovery led him on a path to help others, with a unique approach he has coined The Conscious Recovery Method. There is something for everyone in this episode of Bar Fights, and is truly one you don’t want to miss.

Join singer/songwriter, author, survivor and victim advocate, Jessica Willis Fisher, on this week’s episode of Bar Fights. She and Sarah discuss her trauma experience, her journey of recovery, and how she’s come to a place of thriving in her healing with the help of her creative endeavors. It’s through understanding her own experience that Jessi has used her story, her music and writing to be an encouraging, guiding light for other victims of sexual abuse.

Award-winning documentary filmmaker, Tom DiDonato, joins Sarah to share his journey from feeling the pandemic weight of the world while working at a news desk, to spearheading a passion project that would highlight humanity's potential for kindness, even during the toughest of times. Pivoting is the action that helped Tom inspire a positive movement by encouraging people to share their stories of selflessness and compassion.

The Ambassador of Joy, Author, Speaker, and former quadriplegic Barry Shore joins Sarah on today's episode to talk about harnessing joy. Equipping listeners with fundamental tools of conscious intention and perspective-shifting strategies, Barry explains how we can make the choice to lead a positive, purpose driven life.

Lisa Garr was a competitive mountain biker, riding the trails of life when she experienced a traumatic accident that left her with a TBI and loss of speech. That moment changed her life forever, reshaping her thought processes, and ultimately leading her on a mission to help others tap into their inner awareness. Gear up for the wisdom of this life-force trailblazer as she talks about how to course-correct, live intentionally, and design a purposeful life.

Intuitive trailblazer Joyce Keller is an internationally renowned psychic, visionary and media personality who has written 11 best-selling books and holds the record for hosting America's longest-running, live intuitive advice show. On episode 33, Joyce joins Sarah to talk about her journey in realizing her gifts as a child, the powerful force of angels around us, and what we can do to keep pushing forward during tough times.

From the predatory atrocities of Bill Cosby to Brittany Maynard’s right-to-die advocacy, Nicki Egan has been at the top of her game and at the fore of award-winning journalism for decades. She is the author of Chasing Cosby - The Downfall of America's Dad and the host and executive producer of the podcast based on the book. On this episode of Bar Fights, Nicki talks about her journey and provides an insider's view on the case that brought down a TV idol.

Jane Velez-Mitchell was a news anchor in both New York and Los Angeles and won Emmys for her courageous reporting in both markets. Today, she is a 4-time author and runs Unchained TV, a global streaming network dedicated to programming about veganism, climate change and animal rights. On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah and Jane explore the peaks and valleys that led to Jane's tireless advocacy.

Jim Karol, aka Jimmy Da Brain, was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy just before his 50th birthday. Through the power of positive thinking and a daily regimen of brain exercises, Jim was able to reverse his medical condition. Now almost 70, he leads a healthy life as a renowned mentalist, a performer and the author of the self-help book Ultimate Memory Magic. He has also appeared on The Tonight Show, Today and Ellen. Here's an episode of Bar Fights you'll never forget.

It's time to take a bath in healing sound and divine energy. The Transformational Power of Sound and Music was written by Flicka Rahn, and on this episode of Bar Fights, Flicka explains how she uses her own compositions and training to bring tranquility to the soul. From indigenous tribal music and crystal singing bowls to the soothing frequency of 432Hz, Flicka Rahn can help you unblock your chi.

Miranda Pacchiana. personal coach and host of Truth & Consequences: Navigating the Aftermath of Trauma, calls it "the second wound" — the doubt, the disbelief and the shame a survivor encounters from their inner circle when they disclose that they have been sexually abused. On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah and Miranda lament the challenges they both faced from loved ones and how it stifled the healing process.

On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah goes a few rounds with a legitimate fighter — the one and only Gerry Cooney. Gerry's book, Gentleman Gerry: A Contender in the Ring, A Champion in Recovery, chronicles his career as a professional heavyweight boxer and a survivor of childhood abuse and alcoholism. He now has life cornered and helps others learn how to knock out their demons and the boogeyman he affectionately calls "The Itty-Bitty Shitty Committee."

"The people who love you can handle it." On this episode, Sarah tackles childhood trauma from a unique perspective — through the eyes and heart of a survivor's partner. After three years of marriage, Danielle Sebastian's husband revealed he was sexually abused as a child by the Catholic Church. What followed was an inspiring story of healing, self-care, unconditional love and the book that chronicles the journey — Resilient Wives: A Guide for Wives Supporting Their Husband Through Childhood Trauma Recovery

Molested by her biological father at the age of 12, Kristin Walker has built a life dedicated to guiding people from chaos to peace on their paths to personal healing. What started as her own podcast in 2009 has blossomed into the Mental Health News Radio Network, which houses 75 shows focused on talking openly about all types of mental health. On episode 25, Sarah and Kristen reflect on their similar journeys and the experiences that brought them both to the front line of advocacy.

On the first day of his senior year of high school, Marty Tankleff woke up to discover the bodies of his murdered parents. He was immediately declared the suspect, coerced into a false, unsigned confession, and spent 6,338 days behind bars before being exonerated in 2007. Marty details his deeply compelling story on this episode of Bar Fights and explains how he has turned his painful experience into a busy and heroic life of advocacy.

The latest episode of Bar Fights navigates the complex and challenging aspects of endometriosis and the brave women who fight it. From laparoscopic procedures and excision surgeries to the mysteries that lead to botched and delayed diagnoses, Sarah and Lj Johnson, founder of Endowarrior Academy, discuss everything you need to know about this stigmatized disease. Don't succumb to those 2 AM Google searches — let Lj Johnson get you on the path to healing and wholeness.

Comedians were put on this planet to make people laugh and to bring happiness to those who need it most. Jeffrey Gurian takes that concept to the next level. Besides being a comedy guru, Jeffrey is also a former cosmetic dentist, a stuttering specialist, and the author of inspirational books like Healing Your Heart By Changing Your Mind, Facing Adversity and Fight the Fear. On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah lets Jeffrey take the wheel and school us all on overcoming self-sabotage and life's other mysterious obstacles.

Episode 21 of Bar Fights is a sweet departure from the norm as Sarah welcomes her daughter for a cute conversation about her life as a 6 year old. It was the perfect way for Sarah to take a break from her hectic schedule. So sit back, relax and prepare to smile.

We are healing. Growing. Loving. Falling down. Getting back up again. We are a force that can change the world." There could not be a better time to welcome HeatherAsh Amara to Bar Fights. In many ways, this planet is currently in turmoil, and the author of the Warrior Goddess series has some encouraging and inspirational insight for the human psyche — you got this. So obstacles, beware. HeatherAsh can help you course-correct your life and get you dancing with the challenges as much as you dance with the joys.

"I will no longer be known as a number; I will be known as Dr. Danielle Moore." The last time Sarah Klein saw this week's guest, she was presenting her victim impact statement at the 2018 sentencing of Larry Nassar and those were Danielle's final words at the podium. On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah welcomes her sister survivor, now a doctor of clinical and forensic psychology, to discuss their journeys since that emotional day in Lansing, Michigan and the op-ed Danielle felt compelled to publish on its four-year anniversary.

In a world starving for love and compassion, Hannah Smith has emerged as an inspirational hero. On any given day, you can spot Hannah on a busy street corner, holding handmade signs and the vibrant messages that adorn them for her town's tense commuters. "It's ok to not be ok, just don't give up." Nothing but uplifting, positive reassurance coming from a teenager who was admitted to a psychiatric medical institute for children at the age of 7 and attempted suicide less than 5 years ago. Hear the amazing story of how Hannah turned her life around and chose love to be her guide.

"You can think of the brain as being an overprotective mother." But sometimes, your body just wants to be independent and experience new things. Dr. Dravon James is a motivational speaker, a radio host, a life coach, and the author of Freedom is Your Birthright, and she brings buckets of sunshine and pearls of wisdom to the latest episode of Bar Fights. It's not too late to refocus your resolution and Dravon is just the person to help you do it. She provides all the tools and tips to help you find the power to get your health, wealth and relationships on the right track and create your best year YET! Because brains don't always know best.

"If you’ve survived something, isn’t it kinda your duty to talk about it? What was the point of going through it just to keep it to yourself?” From the moment a stranger laid his towel on a Nantucket beach next to his, Hoyt Richards, at the ripe age of sixteen, found himself living a glitzy New York City lifestyle and being groomed by a mastermind cult leader. On Sarah’s first episode of 2022, she finds herself awestruck by Hoyt’s riveting story of how a doomsday cult robbed him of twenty valuable years, confined him from his own family and brainwashed him into funding the whole operation with the money from his budding modeling career. Tune in and prepare to be enthralled by Hoyt Richards

Just another Tuesday afternoon talking about sex! On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah welcomes Rachel Maine, a sex therapist turned sex coach and the host of the popular podcast Owning Your Sexual Self. Rachel and Sarah chat about Rachel's early days as an intern on a crisis hotline and a survivors advocate, to her work with Pure Romance, a woman-owned, international company. The conversation also gets around to severe trauma and how it can deeply affect intimacy. Rachel shows survivors of sexual and domestic abuse how to take ownership of their bodies again and regain their power, comfort and safety in the bedroom

"There are few things in this world more dangerous than an angry and frightened mother." When the system failed Polly Franks, she took matters into her own hands and went after the man who sexually assaulted her two young daughters. This serial predator, who was dubbed the San Antonio Ski Mask Rapist, eluded conviction in Texas and then rebranded as the Bandana Bandit in Richmond, Virginia — right in Polly's neighborhood, just one block from the elementary school. Sarah and Polly talk about what it took to get the man behind 286 known attacks behind bars, Polly's riveting book Devil at My Door, and how she has taken to Capitol Hill to turn her family's horrific nightmare into positive change for survivors everywhere.

There aren't many stories as compelling and inspirational as the one of Aspen Matis. On her second night of college, she was raped by another freshman in her dorm and the college did nothing to protect her. Her perpetrator was found innocent and she was expected to go about her education with him living on the floor directly above her. Then, in an act of personal salvation, Aspen hiked the Pacific Coast Trail from Mexico to Canada. On this episode, Sarah and Aspen discuss the 2,650-mile, life-changing journey, Aspen's novels Girl in the Woods and Your Blue is Not My Blue, and 15 king size PayDay candy bars

"More often than not, the [victims'] rights are violated rather than afforded." Sarah Klein returns after a 2-week break for an informative conversation with Meg Garvin, a Law Professor at Lewis & Clark Law School and the Executive Director of the National Crime Victim Law Institute, a non-profit organization that promotes balance and fairness in the justice system through victim-centered advocacy, education and resource training. Together, they discuss the future Ask For Rights Campaign and the ongoing need to place victims of violent crimes in the forefront of the criminal justice system.

"You can't expect somebody to build a house if you don't have the tools in the toolbox." Rhett Hackett was sexually abused as a teenager by his neighbor and has paid his experience forward by dedicating his life to restoring the human race with values and compassion through education. He is the president/co-founder of the Humanity Preservation Foundation in Philadelphia and hosts Hands Off on RVN Television, a weekly show committed to the prevention of interpersonal violence. This episode of Bar Fights explores Rhett's journey from survivor to full-time advocate, the importance of early intervention and how going public on The Oprah Winfrey Show changed his life.

Darkness to Light, based in Charleston, SC, is the nation's leading advocate for the prevention of child sexual abuse and has trained 2 million people on how to recognize and react responsibly to this national pandemic. Katelyn Brewer is the organization's president and CEO...and an everyday superhero. On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah and Katelyn discuss the difficult conversations parents must have with their children and how rethinking your standards on challenging authority could save your child's life.

On this emotional episode of Bar Fights, Sarah takes a breather in the corner of the ring after her exhausting round on Capitol Hill with sister survivors Simone Biles, McKayla Maroney and Aly Raisman. The demanding schedule, the extensive traveling, the restless nights and the countless interviews that press to hear her story AGAIN and AGAIN have all taken their toll and reminded Sarah to focus on her own mental health. But rest assured this is just a moment to reset. There are many rounds left and the fight will resume stronger than ever.

Healed people heal people. Rabbi Avremi Zippel watched the Larry Nassar testimonies play out in 2017 and was so moved and emboldened that he came forward with his own reports of sexual abuse. While growing up in Salt Lake City, the family caregiver started molesting him just after his 8th birthday and the abuse continued for a decade. On this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah and Avremi examine his healing journey and lament the uncanny parallels in their stories of survival.

What started as an alluring self-help group turned into a secret sorority of forced labor and sex trafficking. On episode 07 of Bar Fights, Sarah Klein welcomes the author of Still Learning: A Memoir and the executive producer of the docuseries Seduced: Inside the NXIVM Cult — India Oxenberg. These two warriors discuss the parallels in their difficult journeys, escaping and surviving a high-control environment and the subsequent path to real healing.

Bar Fights continues with Sarah Klein's colleague, fellow attorney and real-life superhero — Morgan Stewart. In this episode, Sarah and Morgan chat about his landmark case against USA Water Polo and Coach Bahram Hojreh that resulted in a settlement of $14 million and the genesis of America's leading sexual abuse law firm — Manly, Stewart & Finaldi. SPOILER ALERT: they all blame John Manly.

In this episode of Bar Fights, Sarah welcomes colleague, fellow survivor and the Executive Director of Child USAdvocacy, a nonprofit organization that strives for common sense legislation to protect children from sexual abuse — Kathryn Robb. Sarah and Kathryn tackle the archaic laws that support the perpetrators more than the survivors and the national movement to augment the statutes of limitations.