Guarding Our Youth: Stephanie Olson's Guide to Preventing Human Trafficking
Knowing and being educated on what human trafficking is, what it looks like and truly what we can do to be a source of safety for everyone. Being advocates for everyone, that is how we fight it in our communities.
Imagine a world where every child is safe from the clutches of human traffickers. This episode of 'Firefly By Iris Janet' shines a light on this critical issue with the help of Stephanie Olson, a dedicated advocate and CEO of The Set Me Free Project. With her extensive background in psychology and human trafficking prevention, Stephanie offers invaluable insights into how we can protect our youth from this heinous crime.
The conversation kicks off with a stark reality check about human trafficking. Stephanie dispels common myths, clarifying that this crime isn't confined to distant lands or always involves dramatic kidnappings. Often, it's much more insidious, involving coercion and manipulation right in our own communities. One of the most chilling aspects Stephanie discusses is the grooming process traffickers use.
These predators can spend months or even years gaining a child's trust, making them feel special, and then slowly pushing them into uncomfortable situations. It's a gradual process that can leave victims feeling trapped and powerless. But there's hope. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of building trust and being a reliable figure in children's lives. She shares practical advice for parents, such as staying involved in their kids' activities and monitoring their social media use.
Tools like Apple's parental controls or the Bark app can be game-changers in keeping kids safe online. Throughout the episode, Iris Janet's warm and engaging style ensures that this heavy topic is handled with care and compassion. The discussion is not just informative but also empowering, offering concrete steps that anyone can take to make a difference.
If you're concerned about the safety of the young people in your life or simply want to be part of the solution, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to 'Firefly By Iris Janet' and arm yourself with the knowledge to fight human trafficking in your community.