The Man Enough Podcast

Pathways to Healing: Confronting Exploitation with Courage and Hope

The Man Enough Podcast

Show Notes

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sexual violence and human trafficking. Learn from Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Ashley Judd as she shares how her experiences being exploited as a child have taught her that “it is [her] birthright to heal.” She is joined by Catherine Chen, CEO of Polaris, the organization working to end sex and labor trafficking, for which Ashley is the spokesperson and activist. This is a solution-forward dialogue that helps to better understand the causes, systemic factors, and opportunities to improve this large issue, which is too often invisible. In this episode:

What constitutes sex and labor exploitation

How men play a role and can take action to prevent trafficking

How pornography contributes to the continuation of harmful behaviors

How traffickers use coercion and grooming to lure people in

The urgent need for societal and economic reforms to effectively fight these crimes

This is a personal, riveting and inspiring conversation that informs and provides hope, despite the heavy topics. We all have a responsibility to open our eyes to how we might be unknowingly upholding or allowing vulnerable people to become victims of trafficking. If you see yourself in any of the situations that we discussed today, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text BeFree (233733).

Timecodes: (00:00) Episode Begins (06:55) When is the last time you didn’t feel enough (08:27) Healing is Ashley’s mandate (14:45) Culture of pornification (21:33) Human trafficking definition (25:20) Who buys sex (31:24) Tangible action to take to end trafficking (44:31) What to do if you are being trafficked (56:10) What grooming can look like (1:03:18) The importance of universal basic income & other policies (1:16:16) What does it mean to be Man Enough

QUOTES: "It is my birthright to heal. I am healing. I was born to heal. Healing is my mandate. I am healing right now" - Ashley Judd "Trafficking happens because our systems are broken. We start with the fundamental, which is we don't have enough economic equity, we don't have enough basic income equity in the United States." - Catherine Chen

ABOUT ASHLEY JUDD Ashley Judd, is a celebrated actress and a passionate advocate for social justice and women's rights. Ashley has journeyed to over 22 countries, engaging directly with communities to fight gender inequality and male sexual violence. Her experiences are vividly captured in her New York Times bestselling memoir, "All That Is Bitter & Sweet." Her TED Talk on online misogyny has garnered over two million views. Ashley was Time magazine’s Person of the Year in 2017 as one of the Silence Breakers. In 2019, the United Nations honored her as Global Advocate of the Year. ABOUT CATHERINE CHEN Catherine Chen is the CEO of Polaris, an organization at the forefront of the fight against sex and labor trafficking in the United States. For more than twenty years she has led significant initiatives, including raising awareness about migrant workers in Qatar and launching the Partnership for Freedom with President Obama. Her work has influenced policy change and fostered innovative approaches to combating trafficking.

CONNECT WITH ASHELY JUDD: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley_judd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ashley_Judd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyJuddOfficial Twitter: https://twitter.com/ashleyjudd?lang=en

CONNECT WITH POLARIS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polarisproject/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/polarisproject1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/polarisproject Twitter: https://twitter.com/polaris_project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More from The Man Enough Podcast

Oct 28, 2024

TW: This episode discusses domestic violence. In this special episode, we sit down with singer-songwriter, dancer, actress, and model FKA twigs to explore her journey of healing, resilience, and reclaiming self-worth. In 2020, twigs courageously went public with allegations of domestic violence against her ex-partner Shia LaBeouf. As her legal battle approaches, she reflects on her decision to seek justice and shares her thoughts on the upcoming trial, emphasizing the importance of holding men accountable, no matter their status or success. Twigs offers profound insights into her experience as a survivor, shedding light on how emotional manipulation can consume one’s entire psyche and leave lasting effects on both mind and body. She discusses the challenges of leaving an abusive relationship and the lifelong process of rebuilding trust and reclaiming every dimension of one's identity. Released during the final week of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this conversation serves as a powerful call for empathy, accountability, and cultural change. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or practical tools to navigate difficult relationships and your own healing journey, twigs’ voice will resonate deeply—reminding us that recovery is not linear, but with time and self-compassion, it is possible. If you or someone you know has experienced domestic or sexual violence, help is available. Find the support you need for yourself, a friend, a colleague, or a family member: nomore.org/help TIMECODES: (02:55) Introducing FKA twigs (04:25) Leaving her abuser and feeling isolated (13:49) Ongoing physical and mental effects of abuse (21:41) Speaking out ahead of the trial (35:16) Recognizing narcissism and abuse patterns (46:33) How men can help by embracing vulnerability (52:48) Relearning trust after abuse (1:01:45) Acceptance, healing, and impact on humanity (1:05:55) Being Man Enough QUOTES: "One of the most painful things was realizing that I wasn't special ... It could have really been anyone. It was just bad luck that I got a part in a film." - twigs "It really takes time to learn how to be me again. And I can say now, me was and is great, so I really want to be me." - twigs "I used to thrive out of fear ... But now I embrace the darker, artistic sides of myself. Life doesn’t have to be all sparkles and rainbows — there’s a balance." - twigs "Blaming someone for being in an abusive relationship is like blaming them for getting hit by a car — it just happened to them." - Liz

Aug 26, 2024

TW: This episode discusses suicide and depression In this uplifting episode, we sit down with Kevin Hines, an award-winning speaker and mental health advocate, to explore resilience, hope, and the journey to self-love. At the age of 19, Kevin survived a suicide attempt that forever changed his life. He shares his path from the miracle that saved him that day to now dedicating himself to helping others overcome "brain pain" and find their way to healing. Throughout the conversation, Kevin shares profound insights on the power of empathy, the importance of positive self-talk, and the critical need to reach out for help when it’s needed most. They touch on the complexities of mental health, the impact of childhood trauma, and the transformative effect of forgiveness. He also discusses his advocacy work, including his role in the installation of suicide prevention nets at the Golden Gate Bridge. This is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always hope, and that each life holds immense value. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or practical advice on mental health, this conversation is for anyone striving to live a fuller, more compassionate life with the ability to find light in the darkest moments. Don't miss this chance to hear from a man who has turned his pain into a mission to save lives. If you are in Crisis, or struggling with thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 or text CNQR to 741-741 TIMECODES: (01:47) Introducing Kevin Hines (5:11) Kevin Hines' background, challenges he faced growing up, and his life-changing experience at the Golden Gate Bridge. (12:19) Current state of boys/men and skewed perceptions of suicide (17:45) Moving from self-hate to self-love (24:35) Jamey reflects on his own mother and experiences (28:18) Reframing definitions, perceptions and approach to suicide and people that need help (57:26) Gender trends and differences related to suicide, normalizing struggle for all (1:05:22) The initiative to get suicide prevention nets installed at the Golden Gate Bridge (1:09:51) Exercise to reduce negative self-talk and depression (1:12:15) What does it mean to be “man enough”? QUOTES: "Suicide is not the answer to the problem. It is the problem. You're beautiful just as you are, and you are enough." - Kevin (1:10:50) "We are all human who want the same things. We want to experience joy and love. We want to be seen…We want to build some legacy, to be valued, to make a mark in some way." - Jamey (24:57) "The thoughts are…It's almost like you're on this radio station and you can't change the channel...And it's constant and it's all the time and it is inescapable in many ways…But the solution is not for you to go. It’s to actually ask for help." - Liz (16:48) "Without self-love we cannot give of ourselves to any other human being." - Kevin (14:15) KEVIN HINES LINKS:

Aug 19, 2024

Hosts Jamey Heath and Liz Plank discuss the significant shifts happening in our society and the crucial role men play in supporting these changes. This moment is a catalyst for broader conversations about gender and racial equality, challenging us to reconsider who gets to lead and whose voices matter. Moving beyond politics, they recognize the cultural crossroads we face right now — a chance for America to reckon with its history and redefine its future. Liz and Jamey highlight how men are actively dismantling long-standing barriers to equality. They stress the importance for men, the traditional power holders, to actively support women in leadership roles, especially Black women and other historically marginalized people. Men will make great impact when they recognize women’s contributions and help to break down barriers that have long kept them from positions of power. By standing with them and championing their leadership, men can help shape a future where everyone thrives. This episode encourages all of us, particularly men, to engage in meaningful conversations, challenge the status quo, and work together to build a society that values and uplifts everyone. It is a collective movement toward a more just and inclusive world, where men and women unite in a societal awakening that drives people to build something new together.

Aug 12, 2024

TW: This episode discusses domestic and gun violence. This inspiring episode focuses on the journey from trauma to healing and loving relationships, featuring a conversation with A Call to Men Chief Communications Officer Kimya Motley, who is a domestic violence (dv) survivor, and psychologist and relationships expert Dr. Alduan Tartt. Kimya shares her remarkable story of resilience and recovery after surviving repeated violence, emphasizing the importance of recognizing red flags and finding positive role models for healthy manhood. Dr. Tartt, who also played a pivotal role in Kimya's healing journey, serving as an example of positive masculinity, provides insights into fostering healthy relationships and offers practical advice on breaking the cycle of abuse. They explore the power of community, policy reform and media representation in an effort to create a safer and more supportive world. Despite the harrowing realities they discuss, this conversation shines a light on the hope and healing that can emerge from even the darkest experiences. They also discuss IT ENDS WITH US, the new film from Wayfarer Studios and Justin Baldoni, which depicts situations and themes of dv between its two lead characters. The film, which just celebrated its global theatrical premiere, was made in close consultation with our partners at NO MORE and is based on the best-selling novel by Colleen Hoover. Join a hopeful conversation, providing valuable tools for anyone committed to understanding and combating dv. Watch the video version on our YouTube. If you or someone you know has experienced domestic or sexual violence, help is available: http://nomore.org/

Jun 17, 2024

The hosts tackle what it means to be a provider today, discuss how men can balance financial and emotional support, and explore the evolving roles in relationships. In the spirit of the trend “Guys Under 30 Ask, Guys Over 30 Answer”, Jamey answers audience questions on self-compassion, accountability, and being present in a fast-paced world. From redefining traditional gender roles to maintaining healthy relationships with exes, this episode offers relatable insights and practical advice. Whether you're seeking self-compassion or reflecting on life's journey, Jamey and Liz provide an engaging discussion on modern masculinity and building fulfilling, balanced lives.

See all episodes →