How To Destroy an Airman in 60 Days

She was starting to believe in herself again.
Then she encountered the first sergeant, the enforced silence, the laughter—
and everything she’d rebuilt began to fell apart.
Piece by piece. Trauma by trauma.

She rebuilt herself in basic training. Her first duty station shattered her again.

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The Brutal Reality

Meet Lakeydra Houston, an Air Force veteran who joined the military seeking purpose after surviving childhood trauma. In this episode, she shares how basic training offered her confidence, but the career that followed delivered betrayal. From harassment and sexual assault by a predatory leader to numbing the pain through alcohol and enduring domestic violence, Lakeydra’s story is both harrowing and heartbreakingly familiar for many women in uniform.

Lakeydra describes her path into the military, which is a path many of us have walked. After struggling in college and coping with past trauma through volleyball, she decided to join the Air Force for a fresh start. Despite initial reluctance and the shock of September 11th, she found herself inspired by the recruiter’s promise of becoming a doctor or physical therapist—only to later discover she’d unknowingly signed an open general contract. Basic training was a culture shock, but it also gave her a sense of pride and purpose once she found her footing. Her transformation into a confident airman marked the first time she truly felt accomplished—until her assignment to Security Forces reintroduced the very violence she’d tried to escape.

The Punchline: Assaults, Silence, and Systemic Betrayal

She was reporting in, doing exactly what every new Airman does when they reach their first assignment. Lakeydra opens up about her horrifying encounter with a first sergeant who groped her suggesting she needed a “harmless” fix on her uniform. When she fled his office, a fellow airman warned her not to report him—because she had, and was being discharged for it. What’s worse: the men in Lakeydra’s unit already knew he had a reputation. They laughed about it. Lakeydra was silenced, shamed, and eventually pushed toward alcoholism as a way to cope. Surrounded by a toxic drinking culture and carrying a weapon every day, she was emotionally unraveling—and no one noticed. No one intervened.

Entering The Loop: Loss, Pregnancy, and Deployment

Pin this story to help amplify Lakeydra’s voice and story for survivors!

The spiral continued. Lakeydra entered into a volatile relationship, became pregnant, and was deployed just six weeks after giving birth. She wasn’t physically or emotionally ready. While serving in Dubai, the violence and harassment continued—this time involving officers and friends too scared or ashamed to report what happened. Eventually access to alcohol was cut off, but not before the damage was done to numerous people. When Lakeydra got a call that her husband had been shot, she didn’t want to return home.

Somehow, being overseas felt safer than being with the man she didn’t trust.

Above All Else

Lakeydra’s story quickly exposes how a toxic command climate and male-dominated culture enabled repeat offenders to thrive while silencing survivors. For many, systemic betrayal compounds personal trauma.

If you’re still wondering if your pain “counts” or if you’re the only one—this episode proves otherwise. Lakeydra hopes her courage helps other survivors understand they’re not alone, and that they can get out of the loop that they’re stuck in with support and help from advocates, trustworthy leadership, and mental health treatment and services.

“Going to the military was my way to start over and feel like I had a purpose in life.”
- Lakeydra

Click here to explore more survivor stories

If you’re still wondering if your pain “counts” or if you’re the only one—this episode proves otherwise. Lakeydra hopes her courage helps other survivors understand they’re not alone, and that they can get out of the loop that they’re stuck in with support and help from advocates, trustworthy leadership, and mental health treatment and services.

Links

This episode contains a few references to news articles and books that are listed below:

1. 🔍 If you’re currently working through the VA Disability claims process, download our free toolkit that helps you get the rating you deserve: Get access now

This episode contains a few references to news articles and books that are listed below:

1. ☎️ SA Support for the DoD Community, contact the DoD Safe Helpline: https://www.sapr.mil/dod-safe-helpline

2. ☎️ If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then 1

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Episode Trigger Warning Index

This episode contains references to the following topics. Please use this guide to skip if needed:

• 1:36 Mention of CSA, drug use for coping

• 3:30 -  4:56  Discussion of September 11th

• 7:36 Mentions of loss of sister

• 9:07 Mentions of loss of parent from gun violence

• 09:49 - 10:59 Discussion of harassment/ SA, at tech school as a woman in male-dominated space

• 11:26 - 22:39 Detailed discussion of SA’s, childhood trauma, abuse of power, predatory leadership, male peers making light of and committing SA, trauma responses to SA, self-blame, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, pregnancy, lost lives due to lack of mental health resources, witnessing a friend take their life, SI, deployment soon after giving birth, family members that were veterans of the Vietnam War and their mental health and coping with alcohol

• 23:02 - 29:11 SA’s on deployment due to alcohol and abuse of power, feeling unable to report due to rank structure, feeling powerless to protect friends, domestic violence, gun violence, being stuck in a trauma cycle, lies and betrayal by spouse, alcohol abuse, financial abuse

Takeaways from Part 1

• Lakeydra joined the Air Force to start over after trauma that occurred in childhood..

• Basic training was a significant challenge for her, but ultimately led to a newfound sense of accomplishment and confidence in herself..

• She faced harassment and assault during her service immediately and was warned to not speak up by another victim, while her male peers laughed about the perpetrator and his reputation for being “nasty”.

• Coping with alcohol, and hiding in partying with everyone else became a way to numb her pain.

• Mental health was not openly discussed in the military when she served.

• Deployment and alcohol’s availability brought new gender-based challenges and experiences.

• Support from leadership made a difference in her journey.

• Seeking help and connecting with others is instrumental in traumatic situations.

• Lakeydra's story emphasizes the need for mental health awareness in the military.

Reflection Journal Prompt

Have you ever felt like you were caught in a trauma loop or cycle?

Spend a few minutes after listening to reflect or journal. What did you feel during this episode? What are you still thinking about? What systems need to change — and what part could you play in that change?

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Join the Conversation & Amplify Survivors

Want to talk through your experience? Or support someone else in theirs?

Join our private Facebook group: The Advocates of MST

Don’t forget. This conversation matters. And MSTy showed immense courage by telling her story. Please help us make sure her voice travels further: Leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts helps elevate the visibility of the show for more survivors suffering in isolation and pain. A simple review can change another person’s life forever.

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Need Support?

Although this podcast is a great resource, it does not and should not replace care from a medical professional. If you’re in crisis or need someone to talk to:
Call the Veterans Crisis Line — 988, then press 1
Or go to the nearest emergency room.

You are not alone. We believe you. You matter.  

The final part in Lakeydra’s two part series goes live Tuesday May 7, 2025.

The Best Advice I Can Give About Surviving MST (MSTy’s Story | Part 3)

How MSTy found peace in learning and embracing the positive relationships in her life after MST — her words of wisdom and advice for you.

In the final part of her story, MSTy’s insights about how trauma shaped her daily life over time—and how choosing joy every day, gratitude for close relationships and love, and continuously being inspired by books serve as inspiration for listeners and viewers.

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Accountability Through Reported Patterns of Predatory Behavior

Parts 1 and 2 of MSTy’s story grimly reminded us of the harshest realities of MST. The pain and confusion of being in a new environment after being traumatized by people who seemed trustworthy and the harassment that followed. Sadly, that part was identical to every story shared on the podcast. Through the pain and beginning to heal, MSTy was able to create a digital crime map of MST, to begin the arduous process of unmasking hidden predators throughout our military’s history. She found a way for survivors to process and give a name and space to their pain even if they weren’t able to speak it aloud.

In Part 3 of her story, MSTy shares the quieter, more reflective side of surviving military sexual trauma: the everyday and long-term battles of healing, the ways she found comfort, and the choices she continues to make—every single day—to stay grounded and whole.

I don’t know who needs to hear this but…

We dive into the things most survivors don’t always talk about out loud: the long-term physical toll of trauma, how hard it is to “just be present” for the people you love, and the guilt that comes with realizing how much of your life has been lived in survival mode. MSTy talks about the books, the dogs, the positive memes—yes, even the ones that start with “I don’t know who needs to hear this…”—that kept her going when there weren’t any other tools.

This part of her story is not about the worst of what happened. It’s about the slow, stubborn, defiant act of healing anyway.

The People Who Stayed

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As she reflects on the decades she spent “winging it” before finding solace and education in therapy, books, and online communities, MSTy describes how her life improved because of the people who helped her see herself differently: a best friend in the military, a civilian coworker who never got tired of listening, and a husband who tells her, “I ain’t scared,” every time she worries she’s too much.

In the face of a culture that told her to be silent, their love was a was a mirror and a soft place to reaffirm herself when times got difficult to manage.

Make Time for Healing Today

This episode closes with the kind of wisdom you can only get from someone who’s lived through the long haul of unresolved trauma. MSTy shares the physical effects—tight muscles, inflammation, cognitive struggles—and the regret of waiting so long to start healing and how it impacted her relationships and bonds with her children.

Whether you’re just beginning or decades into this journey, her voice reminds us that healing can start at any moment—and you don’t have to be alone when it does.

“Make time for it today.” - MSTy

Click here to explore more survivor stories

MSTy’s final chapter isn’t about how the story ends—it’s about how survivors live through the in-between. She’s not here to be inspirational or dramatic. She’s here to be real. Her honesty about everyday coping tools and the physical price of trauma is a gift, especially for those who are just now starting to name their pain.

She wants listeners to know: you are not broken. And you’re not too late.

Links From This Episode:

This episode contains a few references to news articles and books that are listed below:

1. MSTy’s website: https://mstmap.com/

2.  Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

3. The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

4. The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Alan Singer

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Join our mailing list to learn about upcoming episodes, new resources, and daily support.

Episode Trigger Warning Index

This episode contains references to the following topics. Please use this guide to skip if needed:

• (00:14 - 00:31) On-screen details of MST markers

• (01:26 - 01:33) Mentions of mental health conditions like dissociation and panic attacks

• (11:25 - 14:22) Discussion of long-term physical toll, regrets about not being emotionally present

Takeaways from This Conversation

• Every marker matters in the healing journey.

• Books and pets can be powerful coping mechanisms.

• Gratitude and positivity are essential for mental health.

• Finding supportive communities is crucial for healing.

• It's important to prioritize emotional wellness.

• Trauma can have long-lasting physical and cognitive effects.

• Starting the healing journey is possible with available resources.

• Support from loved ones can make a significant difference.

• Sharing experiences can help others feel seen and heard.

• Your voice can drive change and accountability.

Reflection Journal Prompt

What did MSTy’s voice help you realize about your own?

Spend a few minutes after listening to reflect or journal. What did you feel during this episode? What are you still thinking about? What systems need to change — and what part could you play in that change?

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Join the Conversation & Amplify Survivors

Want to talk through your experience? Or support someone else in theirs?

Join our private Facebook group: The Advocates of MST

Don’t forget. This conversation matters. And MSTy showed immense courage by telling her story. Please help us make sure her voice travels further: Leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts helps elevate the visibility of the show for more survivors suffering in isolation and pain. A simple review can change another person’s life forever.

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Need Support?

Although this podcast is a great resource, it does not and should not replace care from a medical professional. If you’re in crisis or need someone to talk to:
Call the Veterans Crisis Line — 988, then press 1
Or go to the nearest emergency room.

You are not alone. We believe you. You matter.  

The final part in MSTy’s three part series goes live Tuesday April 15, 2025.

If Victims Were Afraid Then, Predators Should Worry Now (MSTy’s Story | Part 2)

How MSTy designed a new tool that helps survivors track abuse, expose patterns, and take back their power — one marker at a time.

Survivors can take their power back with this map — and that includes you.

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Accountability Through Reported Patterns of Predatory Behavior

MSTy didn’t set out to become the creator of an innovative and accurate way to hold the perpetrators of Military Sexual Trauma accountable. Like many survivors, she was  mostly trying to get through the aftermath of her encounters with avoidance and unhealthy coping until she found education and therapy. Survivors can especially understand wanting to only seek peace after having their lives disturbed so violently and abruptly, often without support for many years until that became unbearable as well.

In learning about complex PTSD and dissociation as a coping skill, she understood that silence and pretending her traumatic events hadn’t happened wouldn’t make the events magically disappear. It didn’t make it easier, because her trauma appeared in her life in other ways when she least expected or wanted it to.

In Part 2, MSTy shares what happened after her assaults — the disorientation, the dissociation, and the dark spiral that followed. But this time, she’s guiding listeners along her path to healing and discovering a brilliant method to help more survivors speak up. She’s sharing her way, possibly your way, of fighting back against this toxic cultural issue in our military.

MSTy introduces a powerful data driven crime map, born from her own story: a digital map that plots MST incidents across the world — Every marker represents a survivor. Every marker is a story that someone felt they had to keep quiet. Until now.

Finally Understanding She Wasn’t Alone

After MSTy’s terrifying and confusing assaults and harassment, she began documenting what happened — first in her diary, then in her mind, and eventually in a way that others could connect with too.

She speaks about living in a fog of dissociation, turning to alcohol, and losing trust in everything and everyone around her — including herself. But slowly, over time, something shifted.  She courageously chose to go back to serving, in the Air Force after September 11th. This new direction with better peers, more opportunities to be the servicemember she knew she could be, and to be able to guide younger Airmen was a source of peace and redemption. A second chance. And upon retiring from both military and civilian work, she turned her focus to healing from MST. The more she learned about MST, the more she realized how common this was — and how often it was expertly covered up, completely ignored, or viciously downplayed.

That’s when the idea for the MST Map found its way.

Using Patterns to Isolate Predators

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The MST Map isn’t just about stories — it’s about patterns. As MSTy began collecting survivor submissions, she saw its potential. Imagine if we could isolate the similarities: the same bases, the same patterns. Different people. Different years. But the same violence.

Consider this. As an example, let’s say a certain recruiter was stationed in an area for 4 years and there are numerous cases of MST reported on the map in that specific time period, and the person was described the same way by all victims… by process of elimination, this map makes it possible to finally validate a victim’s pain.

She and Rachelle discuss how documenting these stories can visually give survivors a sense of power and justice. Most markers are anonymous, while others contain comments of what happened in more detail. But all of them say the same thing: This is real. And it’s everywhere. 

The more markers, the better the opportunity to zero in on the people that caused so much pain but managed to slip by, protected by their leadership often to the serious detriment to the lives destroyed in their wake.

Demonstrating the Magnitude of MST

MSTy opens up about how watching the shock toward and spread of Vanessa Guillén’s story pushed her into action. She talks about the exhaustion of fighting the VA disability claim system while still wrestling your own shame. The pain of being invalidated online. The rage of watching predators get promoted or thriving while survivors are barely staying alive each day.

And the hope that something like the map might finally turn anecdote into evidence. Patterns into pain. Well-kept secrets into cleansing truth.

“This map isn’t just data. It’s how we get change, accountability.” - MSTy

Every marker is a defining moment that someone chose to speak up.

By the end of the episode, MSTy reflects on what it means to keep going — to build something for others even when the process hurts. She and Rachelle talk about accountability, prevention, and the fact that every survivor who shares their story makes it a little harder for systems to pretend they don’t know.

This isn’t just a tool. This is a reason for perpetrators to finally begin to feel the same fear that every survivor has felt daily since their lives were changed forever.

Links From This Episode:

This episode contains a few references to news articles and books that are listed below:

1. MSTy’s website: https://mstmap.com/

2. Marine Who Published Memoir About Alleged Sexual Abuse of Underage Recruit Faces Court-Martial by Drew F. Lawrence | Military.com 

3. 'A Betrayal': How a Decorated Army Officer Fell from Grace in a University ROTC Sex Scandal by  Steve Beynon | Military.com

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Join our mailing list to learn about upcoming episodes, new resources, and daily support.

Episode Trigger Warning Index

This episode contains references to the following topics. Please use this guide to skip if needed:

• 12:54 -  Mention of Vanessa Guillén 

• 13:06 - Mentions of dissociation/mental health struggle 

• 13:22 - Compensation and Pay Exam 

• 13:45 - Mentions of Complex PTSD/mental health struggle

• 15:10 - Explanation of MST Map Website 

• 15:31 - All types of SA named 

• 15:50 - Mention of MST victims of recruiters 

• 16:22 - Marine Corps recruiter predator news article  

• 16:41 - Army ROTC LT COL predator news article discussed 

• 17:16 - 17: 45 - Unreported cases of MST 

• 17:49 - 18:29 - Markers displayed on the map of incidents 

• 20:02 - 22:08 Trolls invalidating MST on social media 

• 22:24 - 22:36 - Feelings of shame, isolation, and paranoia 

• 23:11 - 24:47 - Describes how MST occurs around the world and in different situations illustrated by map markers can identify perpetrators over time

Takeaways from This Conversation

• Creating a map for MST allows survivors to share their stories anonymously and still establish patterns of predatory behavior.

• Personal healing often involves confronting past traumas.

• Predators often look for naive, trusting individuals with weak boundaries.

• Dissociation can be a coping mechanism for trauma survivors.

• Data mapping can help identify patterns of abuse and accountability.

• Survivors often feel isolated for years due to shame and stigma.

• Accountability is crucial for creating change in the military.

Reflection Journal Prompt

What would accountability look like if survivors led the conversation?

Spend a few minutes after listening to reflect or journal. What did you feel during this episode? What are you still thinking about? What systems need to change — and what part could you play in that change?

---

Join the Conversation & Amplify Survivors

Want to talk through your experience? Or support someone else in theirs?

Join our private Facebook group: The Advocates of MST

Don’t forget. This conversation matters. And MSTy showed immense courage by telling her story. Please help us make sure her voice travels further: Leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts helps elevate the visibility of the show for more survivors suffering in isolation and pain. A simple review can change another person’s life forever.

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Need Support?

Although this podcast is a great resource, it does not and should not replace care from a medical professional. If you’re in crisis or need someone to talk to:
Call the Veterans Crisis Line — 988, then press 1
Or go to the nearest emergency room.

You are not alone. We believe you. You matter.  

The final part in MSTy’s three part series goes live Tuesday April 15, 2025.

Surviving Assault Secrets: The Stunning Repercussions For Men That Speak Up (Part 3)

USMC veteran, Brian, shares his story in the latest episode of The Silenced Voices of MST

In the final part of this series, Brian, a Marine Corps veteran, gives us the meat and potatoes of managing PTSD, sleep, and intrusive thoughts. He credits much of his growth to guided meditations and continuously searching out new and different types of coping strategies that help him regain his power.

Brian's New Outlook on Life and Coping

Continuing his story from Part 2, Brian describes importance of meditation, finding the right therapist, and using storytelling as a tool for recovery. He also discusses the toxic culture within the military and why systemic change is necessary to protect future service members:

Trying to receive help

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Brian explains how sleep meditation and hypnosis techniques helped him process his trauma and find a sense of calm amid the chaos. Apps like Headspace are beneficial to those who have difficulty with insomnia due to anxiety, PTSD, and intrusive thoughts that can make it next to impossible to fall or stay asleep.

Like many survivors, Brian faced roadblocks within the military and VA system when seeking acknowledgment and assistance. He discusses how victim-blaming and also having mental health providers give up on him several times made it even harder for him to make progress. But he does stress that if you need help, keep trying. You will find someone that you mesh with, it takes time with different personalities to work together and build trust and rapport in therapy.

Toxic Military Culture & Systemic Failures

Brian and Rachelle discuss how harassment, abuse, and leadership failures create a culture where MST continues to happen unchecked. Although many members of the military are ready to ignore or outright deny the experiences of lives touched by MST, it doesn’t change reality. MST is a problem, and will continue to be until we address it as a systemic issue that is deeply ingrained in military culture. Brian shares why he decided to go public with his story, despite the stigma and backlash survivors often face. He explains how telling his truth helped him reclaim his power and encourage others to do the same.

Brian urges fellow survivors to seek help, share their stories, and find community in advocacy.

Click here to explore more survivors stories.

"Holding onto trauma is like a disease—it eats away at you.”

Key Takeaways:

• Meditation can be a powerful healing tool for MST survivors.

• Speaking out about trauma can be liberating and empowering.

• The military must enact systemic changes to support MST survivors.

• Finding the right therapist is crucial—don’t stop searching until you find one that fits.

• Every survivor’s story matters, and sharing it can help others heal.

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Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Join our mailing list to learn about upcoming episodes, new resources, and daily support.

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Resources:

• Visit Brian’s Website: 8Bmedia.com

• Read More: GQ Article on Male Rape in the Military

• Need help processing or want to share your story? Join our supportive community on Facebook: The Advocates of MST

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

• Michael Sealey’s Guided Meditations: YouTube Channel

• Cal Melkez’s Sleep Meditations: YouTube Channel

• If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then 1

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If this episode resonates with you, please share it, comment your thoughts, and leave a review to help amplify survivor voices. Together, we can change the conversation around MST and push for meaningful reform.

🎧 Full Episode Available on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/silencedvoicesmst

Part 1 of MSTy’s story will release on March 18, 2025.

Surviving Assault Secrets: The Stunning Repercussions For Men That Speak Up (Part 2)

Brian shares his story in the latest episode of The Silenced Voices of MST

In Part 2 of this 3-part series, Brian, a Marine Corps veteran, shares what it was like to navigate life after separating from the Marine Corps. He goes to college, tries to cope through partying, drinking, and promiscuity and doesn’t tell a soul that he’s a veteran. After landing a job with Jose Cuervo, he has a mental break that leads to him finding a magazine article that changes his life prior to leaving for China to rediscover himself. He explores finding his love of storytelling and expresses frustration with the lack of progress made by science in support of finding a treatment method for people with debilitating PTSD. Brian opens up about the struggles he faced after leaving the military, including the relentless grip of PTSD, the battle to be heard, and how he found strength in writing and advocacy.

Brian's Journey: From Dishonorable Discharge to Medically Retired

Picking up from where he left off in Part 1, Brian talks about the immediate aftermath, how his discharge affected his ability to get vital mental health care, and the lack of support he encountered after word spread among his peers. It was nearly impossible for him to seek justice, leaving him to process his trauma on his own. He earned the nickname “Blackout King” in college and hid the fact that he was a veteran from everyone and speaks about finding unhealthy coping mechanisms, including:

• Substance use – Numbing the pain through alcohol and other substances.

• Self-destructive behaviors – Using promiscuity as a means of dealing with what happened

Trying to receive help

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One of the most difficult battles Brian faced was not just recovering from trauma and unhealthy coping, but fighting for his experience to be acknowledged. He details the legal and bureaucratic hurdles that male MST survivors face when they seek recognition and support.

He shares his frustrations with the military’s reluctance to acknowledge male survivors and finally seeing that he was not alone in an article from GQ, titled “Son, Men Don’t Get Raped”. The article mirrored how MST, being improperlty discharged, and stigma impacts not only mental health care access but also disability claims and post-service support. This segment highlights the systemic failures that leave survivors without the help they desperately need.

Why Men’s Voices Matter

One of the major struggles for male MST survivors is finding therapy that actually works. Brian discusses the lack of specialized care for male survivors, the stigma of seeking help, and how many veterans are dismissed or misdiagnosed.

He shares how he eventually found therapists who understood his experience, and how trauma-focused therapy, meditation, and support groups played a role in his healing journey. Brian also calls out the lack of research and resources dedicated to male survivors of MST. He discusses:

• The gaps in mental health services for veterans.

• The need for better education about the true extent and definition of PTSD

• The lack of research on military sexual trauma and PTSD that actually heals those who suffer

He stresses that change will happen if more survivors feel empowered to speak.

Click here to explore more survivors stories.

Brian notes that male survivors are often overlooked and underrepresented in conversations about sexual violence. He talks about the challenges of breaking through societal stigma and why it’s crucial for men to share their experiences.

"I found my path in storytelling..” – Brian

Key Takeaways:

• Brian illustrates the struggles many veterans face after leaving the military when they've been harmed and are not discharged under honorable conditions

• The importance of finding a voice for male survivors of sexual assault is crucial.

• Coping mechanisms can vary widely, and what works for one may not work for another.

• Storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing and advocacy.

• Brian's experience with the legal system highlights the challenges faced by veterans seeking justice.

• The need for societal recognition of male sexual assault survivors is urgent.

• Cultural rituals and ceremonies can play a significant role in healing for veterans.

• Mental health treatment is often a long and challenging process for veterans.

• Brian's transition to storytelling reflects a broader need for veterans to share their experiences.

• The fight for recognition and support for veterans with PTSD due to MST continues.

Join our mailing list to learn about upcoming episodes, new resources, and daily support.

Resources:

• Visit Brian’s Website: 8Bmedia.com

• Read More: GQ Article on Male Rape in the Military

• Need help processing or want to share your story? Join our supportive community on Facebook: The Advocates of MST

• If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then 1

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Part 3 of Brian’s story will release on March 11, 2025.

Surviving Assault Secrets: The Stunning Repercussions For Men That Speak Up

Brian shares his story in the latest episode of The Silenced Voices of MST

When we think of masculinity and military strength, the first image that pops into most people’s minds is a guy in the Marine Corps. Their motto says it all: The few. The proud. The Marines. It’s iconic, and so many young men and women respond to that message by enlisting or commissioning into the toughest service in the nation. But what happens more often than not is our blindness to the battles that men and women suffer in uniform among their peers. The amount of harassment and bullying is overlooked, and something like Military Sexual Trauma is hidden deeply away behind stoic facades and messages of honor and camaraderie.

In Part 1 of this deeply moving three-part series, Brian, a Marine Corps veteran, shares his journey from proud infantryman to survivor of sexual trauma and PTSD. His story gives us a look at the hidden experiences of male survivors in the military and the long-term repercussions of not only being victimized, but also speaking out and trying to receive help.

Brian's Journey: From Musician to Marine

Brian’s path to joining the Marines was similar to many that I’ve heard. It was a way to pay for school and his future musical aspirations, and military service was a family tradition. And although Brian had never felt pushed or encouraged to join by his family, a feeling of restlessness and boredom led him to a recruiter’s office at the age on 19, even after a friend warned him about joining. After a rough start and becoming fully immersed in USMC culture, he found himself and had a grueling, yet transformative experience while away at boot camp. Camaraderie, discipline, and feeling like he finally found his purpose shaped Brian, to the point that he excitedly called his parents one night saying, “This is what I want to do with my life.” But one serious injury and a night soon after changed his life forever.

What was supposed to be a night of NBA finals and letting off steam with a friend in San Diego, turned into a horrifying nightmare experience for both. Following their assaults, nothing was the same. Brian found himself isolated, bullied, and battling his mental health with little to no support. That led to trying to cope, by any means necessary… even career-ending ones.

Facing Harassment and Isolation

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After reporting the assault, Brian found himself in a worse situation than he could have ever imagined. Instead of providing relief, his words opened the door to constant harassment and ridicule from fellow Marines, men who were supposed to be his brothers in arms. Almost instantly, he was ostracized in a place that once felt like it had become home. This response, no matter how common, is tragic. The stigma that persists in “traditionally male environments” like the Infantry, toward male victims remains a driving force as to why more men do not come forward for help after incidents like these. Many suffer in silence, because the alternative is even worse.

Another run-in with law enforcement led to Brian facing a Medical Evaluation Board and Physical Evaluation Board process. Despite his trauma, he remained unsupported, even while navigating the difficult processes. This led to career-ending coping methods, and an Other than Honorable discharge from service, which further impacted his life, long after he hung up the uniform.

Why Men’s Voices Matter

Brian’s story is not just about his personal trauma but a broader conversation about the barriers male survivors face when speaking out. By sharing his story, Brian hopes to encourage other men to seek help and impress upon listeners the importance of creating safe spaces for survivors.

Click here to explore more survivors stories.

Key Takeaways:

• Brian, a writer, producer, and Marine Corps veteran, shares his journey through trauma, isolation, and recovery.

• His experience underscores the stigma surrounding male survivors of sexual assault, particularly within the military.

• Brian faced harassment and isolation after reporting his assault, reflecting the cultural challenges in addressing sexual trauma among men.

• His struggle with PTSD and substance use emphasizes the urgent need for better mental health resources for veterans.

Watch Part 1 on YouTube

In Part 1, Brian shares his profound journey from being a Marine Corps infantryman to a survivor of sexual trauma and PTSD. He discusses his initial motivations for joining the military, the transformative experiences during boot camp, and the life-altering incident that led to his struggles with mental health, unhealthy coping skills, and disillusionment with the Marine Corps. Brian frankly recounts the challenges he faced, including isolation, harassment, and the difficulties in seeking help after his discharge.

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Resources:

• Visit Brian’s Website: 8Bmedia.com

• Read More: GQ Article on Male Rape in the Military

• Need help processing or want to share your story? Join our supportive community on Facebook: The Advocates of MST

• If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then 1

Part 2 of Brian’s story will release on March 4, 2025.

How Faith Helped Emily Overcome Adversity

In our recent episode of Silenced Voices of MST, I had the privilege of speaking with Emily, a remarkable author, advocate, and public speaker who has transformed her personal challenges into a beacon of hope for others. Emily’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the role that faith can play in healing even the deepest wounds.

Click to listen to Emily Bernath, an author and advocate, shares her journey of faith, healing, and finding purpose after experiencing SA and finding herself at her lowest point. She discusses the challenges of writing about her trauma and the importance of including the personal element in her books. Emily also talks about her faith and how it played a role in her healing process.

Click to watch the interview with Emily and Rachelle.

Emily’s Journey into Advocacy and Faith

Emily began her career with dreams of working in chemistry and business, but her life changed unexpectedly following a traumatic experience that left her grappling with trust, isolation, and self-worth. When she initially shared her story, she faced disbelief, blame, and rejection from those she turned to for support. This sense of betrayal not only intensified her pain but also led her to question her value and her place in the world.

In her journey to rebuild her life, Emily reconnected with her faith. She describes this as a turning point, where she began to find strength in her relationship with God. Although faith had been part of her childhood, it was only in her most challenging moments that Emily fully leaned into it, finding a new perspective and sense of purpose.

Finding a Community and Reclaiming Self-Worth

While navigating the aftermath of trauma, Emily discovered a women’s Bible study group on her college campus. This group gave her the support she needed to start viewing herself through a compassionate lens, and she eventually became a mentor herself, helping other women find strength through faith. Emily’s transformation from student to leader ignited a desire to help others who faced similar battles with self-worth and healing.

Writing as a Path to Healing

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Emily’s advocacy work didn’t stop with her small group. Her experiences inspired her to write, resulting in her book series, Broken Lenses. Through her writing, she challenges readers to see beyond societal labels and instead focus on self-compassion and spiritual growth. While her initial reluctance to share personal stories was strong, Emily’s writing coach encouraged her to be open, sharing that vulnerability would not only enhance her message but also resonate deeply with her readers.

The Power of Sharing and Forgiveness

Emily also discussed the importance of forgiveness in healing. For her, forgiveness wasn’t about excusing what happened but about reclaiming control over her life. By forgiving, Emily found that she could move beyond the pain and live without the shadow of resentment. This step was vital in her journey toward self-acceptance and inner peace, a message she now shares openly in her public speaking engagements.

Building a Legacy of Advocacy

Today, Emily works with Reveal to Heal International, a nonprofit focused on supporting sexual assault survivors within faith communities. She believes in creating safe spaces for survivors, encouraging them to reveal their pain as a step toward healing.

“We can’t heal what we don’t reveal,” she says, a mantra that underscores her work and her commitment to advocacy.

Embracing Vulnerability and Inspiring Change

Through her books and public speaking, Emily continues to challenge societal norms surrounding trauma and mental health, pushing for a culture where survivors feel supported and understood. She sees her role as an advocate not just as a calling but as a responsibility to empower others to find their voice. Her ultimate hope is to inspire a new generation to speak out and to foster a world where trauma survivors no longer have to navigate their journey alone.

Final Thoughts

Emily’s journey shows us the power of faith, community, and resilience in overcoming trauma. Her story serves as a reminder that, while pain may change us, it doesn’t have to define us. Through sharing her experiences and guiding others, Emily exemplifies the strength of the human spirit and the peace that can come from embracing our own truths.

For more about Emily’s work or to connect with her, visit her website, Emily Bernath Author. Her books are available, and she welcomes anyone seeking support or inspiration to reach out. Her story has motivated me to continue to share our voices, inspire change, and support each other in the journey toward healing.

Remember, our voices are powerful in the fight against military sexual trauma. Share your story, connect with others, and join us in the mission to end MST once and for all.

Enjoyed the Episode? Share Your Feedback!

If this episode moved you, inspired you, or gave you new insights, we’d love to hear about it! Please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and support our mission to give a voice to those impacted by military sexual trauma. Thank you for your support!

Finding Her Voice and Healing: A Journey of Courage

In a environment veiled by silence, where the scars of trauma are worn like armor, Jeanette Garcia emerges as a testament to resilience, sharing her profound military journey with candid honesty. Jeanette's story is not just about enduring; it's about finding healing and empowering others to do the same.

The Call to Service and Shadows of Trauma

A sense of duty and a need for change was recognized as a call to serve her country that led her to enlist in the army. Through basic training and the challenges of deployment to Afghanistan, she forged unbreakable bonds with fellow soldiers and discovered depths of strength she never knew she possessed.

Yet, amidst the traumas encountered during her deployment, Jeanette confronted a darker reality: the specters of military sexual trauma (MST) and domestic violence. These insidious foes left wounds that ran deeper than any battlefield scar, testing her resolve and shaking the very foundations of her being.

Jeanette found solace in her faith and the unwavering support of her son and her loyal companion, her dog. Through their love, she discovered the power to heal and the courage to confront her demons. Jeanette's journey of personal growth and redemption didn't end with her own healing; it became a beacon of hope for others navigating similar trials.

Healing and Empowerment Through Storytelling

jeanette's healing journey found expression in the pages of her book, "Battle Scars." Through raw honesty and unflinching vulnerability, she bared her soul to the world, transforming her pain into a narrative of empowerment. In sharing her story, she not only found catharsis but also ignited a spark of awareness, shedding light on the pervasive issue of abuse within the military.

As Jeanette reflects on the ongoing cases of abuse within the military, she issues a clarion call for societal change and unwavering support for survivors. She advocates for the creation of safe spaces where survivors can come forward without fear of judgment, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of empathy and understanding.

Guidance for the Next Generation

For young women embarking on their own military journeys, Jeanette offers sage advice: prioritize self-care, watch for warning signs in relationships, and lean on the bonds forged with fellow service members. She underscores the importance of vigilance in a culture often marred by excessive alcohol consumption, urging individuals to protect themselves and their well-being.

Jeanette Garcia's journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, a stirring saga of resilience and redemption in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through her unwavering courage and unyielding determination, she has not only found healing for herself but has also become a guiding light for others traversing the shadowed valleys of trauma. As we heed her call to action, may we find solace in the knowledge that even amidst the darkest of nights, the dawn of hope shines bright for those who dare to embrace it.

For more insights into Jeanette's journey and her ongoing projects, visit her website at WeSurvivedTrauma.com and explore her book, "Battle Scars," available on Amazon and her website.

April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and we at Silenced Voices | Stories of MST are committed to honoring it with each of our interviews. As we delve into Jeanette's narrative, we acknowledge the sensitive nature of the content presented. The content presented in this interview may contain sensitive material that could potentially trigger viewers. Silenced Voices | Stories of MST is committed to supporting survivors of all forms of sexual violence and discrimination. Our mission, encapsulated in our motto "Listen. Believe. Support.", guides our platform's values and actions. It's important to note that the views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or values of Silenced Voices. While we provide a platform for survivors to share their stories, we do not endorse or condone any opinions or statements made by our guests.

We strive to create a safe and inclusive space for survivors to speak out and be heard. We encourage our listeners to engage critically with the content presented and to prioritize their own well-being while listening.

Survivor Eileen Dong Takes on Human Trafficking

As we eagerly prepare for the debut of Season 2 of our podcast on April 2, 2024, we're thrilled to introduce you to our first guest, UN Ambassador Eileen Dong. In anticipation of this insightful conversation, we're shaking things up by not only bringing you our usual audio format but also introducing video podcasts on YouTube. It's an exciting time as we expand our reach and dive deeper into crucial topics.

So, let's take a moment to get acquainted with our remarkable guest and the important discussion ahead.

UN Ambassador Eileen Dong

Founder and Executive Director
Hope Pyx Global

Recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award

Learn more

In our conversation, Eileen shares her journey, shedding light on the harrowing realities of human trafficking and its intersection with military sexual trauma (MST). It's a conversation that challenges misconceptions and emphasizes the urgent need for action and support.

Her story is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. She works tireless in advocacy against human trafficking and gender-based violence serves as a symbol of hope for survivors everywhere. During the interview, we're reminded of the importance of listening, supporting, and taking action to create a safer, more compassionate world for all.

Human trafficking is a global issue, far more prevalent and insidious than many realize. Eileen highlights the misconceptions surrounding trafficking, emphasizing that it can happen to anyone, regardless of their background or location. Through her work, she aims to debunk myths and raise awareness about the true scale of this crisis.

Finding Passion and Purpose

Eileen's journey to becoming an advocate against human trafficking is deeply personal. It stems from her own experiences as a survivor of polyvictimization and her unwavering commitment to preventing others from enduring similar horrors. Her passion and purpose drive every action, inspiring others to join the fight. Survivors of human trafficking often grapple with long-term effects that extend far beyond their immediate ordeal. Eileen emphasizes the importance of support systems and empathy in helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives.

Recognizing the signs of trafficking and offering support can be life-changing. Eileen provides valuable insights into how individuals can identify potential victims and take action to intervene and offer assistance.

Cultural sensitivity and ending victim blaming are essential components of addressing human trafficking effectively. Eileen emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding, urging society to see trafficked individuals as human beings deserving of dignity and respect.

Eileen’s Upcoming Book and Projects

Eileen's dedication to her cause knows no bounds. She shares details about her upcoming projects, including a book targeting law enforcement and a survivor-centered guide. Her relentless pursuit of justice and support for survivors is truly inspiring.

Eileen's upcoming book promises to be a valuable resource for survivors, law enforcement, and community members alike. It provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and combating human trafficking, offering practical insights and technical information.

Let's continue the conversation on April 2, and take meaningful action to support survivors and end human trafficking once and for all. Join us in listening to and thanking Eileen Dong for her tireless efforts and for being a voice for the voiceless. Together, we can build a future free from exploitation and violence.

Resources

• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-Hope

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

Stay connected with Eileen Dong

Website: Eileen Dong

Book: Thank Your Predator: A Guide to Trauma Recovery from Abuse

International Conference on Abuse: Hope Pyx Global

For upcoming events and resources: Hope Pyx Global

To make a tax-deductible donation: Hope Pyx Global

International Survivors Network: Facebook Group

The Ms Texas Show: YouTube

Social Media: LinkedIn - Eileen Dong, LinkedIn - Hope Pyx Global