S1E20: "Ryan Gadsby - 'Edge of the Bed': Domestic Child Abuse and Pedophelia Survivor Speaks Out"

In Pt 7 of our 'Survivor Series', we feature survivor and activist Ryan Gadsby who is making waves with a controversial and impactful video he created called 'Letter to my Abuser' where he tells a visual story of going through and surviving years of sexual, physical, mental and emotional abuse by his step father by using actual photos and footage from his childhood. Oddly inspired by a nightmare he had, he decided to bring his story to life in a way that would be healing for himself while also serving to bring awareness of child abuse to others and allow other survivors to know they aren't alone. Ryan's video testimony is so raw, real, and powerful that the response he's been getting from survivors and activists alike is nothing short of inspiring.

In this episode, we dive deep into how Ryan turned a horrific situation into an empowering movement and how he found the courage to escape from his abuser and a near death suicide attempt to be able to stand in front of you today. We discuss courage, overcoming darkness, signs of abuse and abusers, the inspiration behind his revealing and vulnerable video concept, what he is working on now (hint: you want to hear what's coming up!), and so much more.

Ryan's story is important for many reasons. The most important reason being that abuse can take place anywhere and to anyone and that the first place we should always look for signs of abuse is right within our own homes and neighborhoods. It's also important because only a small percentage of survivors that come forth to break their silence are men and yet astounding statistics surround child abuse towards males. We can't ignore this issue anymore and need to listen to survivors like Ryan when they speak. When men like Ryan step up and speak their truth, it allows others like him to step up and do the same. Ryan is an inspiration and what he's doing deserves to be recognized and celebrated. It's the courage of brave survivors like him who will bring positive change to our future's children.

My goal with this series is to talk about what no one else will talk about and to give these brave survivors a voice they've never had. A movement starts with one person - why not let that person be You?

*DISCLAIMER - DIALOGUE NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN

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