In this week's episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Michele, who opens up about her painful childhood shaped by narcissistic parents and years of sexual abuse by a trusted family friend. From early neglect and trauma to addiction, toxic relationships, and time in a psych ward, Michele shares her story of recovery and self‑discovery. Through therapy and faith, she finds self‑love, forgiveness, and healing after years of silence.

This episode sheds light on the hidden scars of childhood abuse, the psychological effects of narcissistic parenting, and the power of therapy in reclaiming your life. Michele’s journey is a powerful reminder that healing is possible — even after the darkest beginnings.

Live book signing event in Stillwater, NJ, Clark Fredericks shares his personal journey of surviving childhood sexual abuse at the hands of Dennis Pegg, a once-trusted community figure. Joined by fellow survivors and supporters, Clark opens up about his years of trauma, addiction, and the breaking point that led to a life-altering act of justice. Through honest conversation and vulnerability, this event highlights the urgent need to break the silence around abuse, confront the past, and embrace the path toward healing and transformation. This video stands as a beacon of strength and hope for others who may still be suffering in silence.

In this unforgettable episode of Free Like Me, Michael Gonzalez shares his deeply personal story of surviving childhood sexual abuse by a trusted teacher in Leonia, New Jersey. As he revisits the dark memories of grooming, manipulation, and betrayal that began in the 1960s, Michael reveals how the trauma shaped his youth, his time in the military, and ultimately led him to confront his abuser decades later.

In this week's episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, 31‑year‑old Nick Palmer shares how alcohol took over his life from his teenage years through his twenties — and the moment that changed everything. Nick opens up about early family life, rebellious teenage drinking, multiple stints in rehab, relapse cycles, and the turning point at his 30th birthday that led to real recovery. This inspiring episode shines a light on the realities of addiction, the importance of support, and how sobriety can transform a life. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement or understanding about addiction and recovery.

He Was Only 13 When They Shackled Him. What Came Next Was Even Worse.
In this jaw-dropping episode of Free Like Me, Chris Cook takes us inside the nightmare he lived as a young teen abused by the very system meant to protect him. From being shackled like a criminal at 13 to being groomed and betrayed by a high-ranking sheriff, Chris’s life spiraled into alcoholism, despair, and multiple suicide attempts.

But this is also a story of unimaginable strength. Now sober and using his voice to advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse, Chris reveals how he finally broke free from shame, addiction, and silence. If you've ever felt broken, trapped, or voiceless—this episode will hit home.

💬 “The system failed me. But I fought back—and survived.”

Scarred: A Memoir of a Childhood Stolen and a Life Reclaimed
https://a.co/d/jiVW408

In this new episode, The Free Like Me Podcast welcomes Selena, a survivor of sex trafficking and addiction, who now serves as the Program Director at Hope Rising Arizona. From growing up surrounded by dysfunction in Mesa, Arizona, to entering the adult film industry and facing the horrors of international trafficking, Selena's story is one of unimaginable pain—and powerful recovery.

Selena opens up about her early exposure to trauma, her battles with substance abuse, her forced involvement in sex work, and the pivotal moment that sparked her transformation. Now nearly a decade sober, Selena is helping others walk the same path to healing and redemption.

🎧 If you've ever doubted the human capacity to overcome, this episode is for you.

Inside the Fight Against Clergy Abuse: David Clohessy Speaks Out
On this episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks interviews David Clohessy, a courageous survivor and former national director of SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests). David shares his own traumatic experience of clergy abuse and how it led to decades of advocacy work helping others break the silence. They dive into the deep systemic failures of the Catholic Church, the urgent need for legal reforms, and the personal cost of speaking out. This powerful conversation is a must-watch for those seeking justice, healing, and awareness around clergy abuse and institutional cover-ups.

Check out my website: davidclohessy.com
twitter: @davidgclohessy

How you can help:
https://www.snapnetwork.org/you_can_make_a_difference

What is SNAP? (60 seconds)
https://www.davidclohessy.com/blog/what-is-the-survivors-network-of-those-abused-by-priests

Lists of predators? (60 seconds)
https://www.davidclohessy.com/blog/how-snap-is-working-to-uncover-abuse-in-the-catholic-church

In this new episode of The Free Like Me Podcast, host Clark Fredericks speaks with Heather, a law enforcement officer and survivor of severe domestic violence. Heather recounts her terrifying experience at the hands of her abusive ex-husband—from emotional and physical abuse to legal struggles and battles for her children’s safety. Her journey highlights how victims can shift into a survivor mindset and reclaim their power. Heather’s story is raw, emotional, and deeply inspiring—a message of strength, awareness, and healing for anyone facing adversity.