Laurie Ann Smith: A Voice for the Silenced
I'm telling you that I'm so thankful for all my friends, you know, because I didn't have my own, you know I could trust.
Imagine finding the strength to turn your darkest experiences into a beacon of hope for others. In this compelling episode of AU4H Radio's 'Real Talk', co-hosts Donna M. Kshir and Lee 'Cougardawn' Roberts welcome advocate and author Laurie Ann Smith. Laurie, a dedicated volunteer program coordinator for AU4H Radio and a five-time published author, opens up about her journey from surviving the horrors of abuse to thriving as a powerful voice for those who have been silenced.
Laurie’s mission is deeply personal. She shares her raw and honest reflections on the challenges she faced, the importance of having a support system, and the vital role of coping skills and self-care in her healing process. Through her candid conversation, listeners gain insight into the resilience required to overcome such adversity and the power of community in fostering recovery.
This episode also marks a significant milestone—the 10-year anniversary and re-launch of Laurie's impactful books: 'A Life of Death: The Redemption', 'La Veta Juvies', and 'One Child Abuse Survivor 2 Another: The Journey'. Every penny from these books goes towards funding programs aimed at stopping and preventing child abuse, reflecting Laurie’s unwavering commitment to advocacy. Laurie emphasizes that while the journey is tough, finding trustworthy friends like Donna and Lee can make all the difference.
Her story is not just about survival but about turning pain into purpose. The episode concludes with a heartfelt call to action, urging listeners to speak out against abuse and support organizations dedicated to this cause. If you’re looking for an inspiring tale of resilience and advocacy, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Laurie Ann Smith’s powerful story and learn how you too can be a part of the movement to end child abuse.