Episode 25. From Survivor to Warrior: Joelle Casteix

When the darkness of child sexual abuse entered Joelle Castex's life, it shaped a path she never anticipated. Courageously transforming her pain, Joelle, now a TedX speaker and advocate, joins us to share her journey from survivor to warrior, shining a light on the shadows we often fear to confront. Together, we navigate the difficult terrain of childhood trauma, the lasting impact it has, and the strength found in advocacy. Joelle's story is not only a testament to her resilience but also an invitation to join the fight in protecting our children and empowering survivors.

Weaving personal narratives with crucial advice, this episode is a rich tapestry of hope and action. We tackle the often-overlooked details like the importance of naming body parts correctly, setting boundaries early on, and fostering open communication with our kids. These conversations are vital for prevention and provide healing paths for those who've been hurt. We reflect on the cultural shifts that movements like Me Too have brought about, discussing the complex nature of abuse in institutions, and the changing tides in survivor support and legal systems.

Peering into the digital world, we examine how technology serves as both a beacon of hope and a potential threat. Joelle's insights into the intersection of advocacy and technology provide a strategic approach to ending the cycle of abuse. We also highlight the indispensable role of community and legal support in acknowledging and addressing the harm endured by survivors. This episode doesn't just expose the raw and real issues at hand but also equips us with the understanding and tools to make a difference in the lives of those affected by child sexual abuse.

CLICK HERE for the Blog Post for the Episode

Time Line

(00:00) Survivor Advocates Against Sexual Abuse
(13:52) Preventing Childhood Trauma and Healing
(18:10) Catholic Church Sexual Abuse Understanding
(30:21) Naming Body Parts and Me Too' (Note
(38:53) Preventing Child Sexual Abuse Through Communication
(49:50) Building Resilience and Preventing Abuse
(56:34) Tech Solutions for Social Problems

About Joelle Casteix

When Joelle Casteix blew away audiences at her TEDx talk—amassing more than 100K views— organizers saw what activists had known for years: she is lightning in a bottle.
An accomplished author and journalist, a seasoned speaker, and an in-demand global media interview darling, Joelle’s personal journey is just as intriguing and inspirational as her sold-out talks.

Joelle endured the typical aftermath of child sexual assault: continued depression, self-destructive behaviors, suicide attempts, and a failed marriage. Somehow, she persevered. But by the age of 27, Joelle realized that something had to change. He pain and decisions had created a life that was a continued emotional failure. It was no way to live. Joelle woke up one morning and with a revelation: she knew she had a choice. If she stayed on her current path, she would die. It was decision time—Joelle decided it was time to live and time to heal. And everything changed.

Get your copy of the The Well-Armored Child: A Parent’s Guide to Preventing Sexual Abuse HERE