Welcome to the Aware and Prepared Podcast
I'm your host, Mandi,
trauma informed resilience speaker, domestic violence victim advocate, and narcissistic abuse survivor who shares true crime stories and real world strategies to prevent emotional and physical harm so you can live with greater peace and power!
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How I Healed My Nervous System: Reclaiming Peace with Neuroplasticity
How did I accidentally heal my nervous system? What did I stumble upon on accident? In this powerful episode, Dr. Keean and I explore how trauma reshapes our nervous system and how we can use predict... ...more
Podcast
June 04, 2025•1 min read
Healthy Teen Relationships & Violence Prevention (Part 2): Peer Advocacy & Resources Bloom 365
In this powerful follow-up to Episode, TEENS NEED HELP and what better way than training them to help each other? Genius! Donna Bartos shares how BLOOM365 is activating the 10% tipping point—training ... ...more
Podcast
May 27, 2025•1 min read
Healthy Teen Relationships & Violence Prevention: How BLOOM365 Is Uprooting Abuse
What if we could end teen dating violence in a generation? It’s bold—but that’s exactly what Donna Bartos and BLOOM365 are setting out to do. In this powerful episode, Mandi sits down with Donna Barto... ...more
Podcast
May 21, 2025•1 min read
Addressing Violence Against Women: Bystander Intervention with Dr. Hill
How did Dr. Hill address a man disrespecting women in public—and what can we learn from it? In this compelling continuation, Dr. Saed Hill shares a real-life example of bystander intervention that sto... ...more
Podcast
May 13, 2025•1 min read
Addressing Violence Against Women: Masculinity & Ending Gender-Based Violence
In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Dr. Saed Hill to explore the connection between toxic masculinity and violence against women. We dig into the root causes of gender-based violence, why it’s o... ...more
Podcast
May 07, 2025•1 min read
How to Prioritize Your Safety Over Being Polite: Jumper Cable Example
What do you do when your instincts are screaming “no,” but you feel obligated to say “yes” to be polite? In this empowering podcast episode, Mandi shares a powerful Q&A moment from her recent presenta... ...more
Podcast
April 30, 2025•1 min read
The One Habit That Strengthens Your Intuition (and Changes Everything)
Mandi encourages you to take one intuitive action, no matter how big or small, to build confidence in your intuition. In day five, the final day, of the Intuition Activation Challenge, she emphasizes ... ...more
Podcast
April 22, 2025•1 min read
Is It Intuition or Overthinking? How to Know the Difference
Trust your gut feeling or rationalize it away? In day four of the Intuition Activation Challenge, Mandi explains how often we dismiss our intuitive thoughts by convincing ourselves they don't matter, ... ...more
Podcast
April 15, 2025•1 min read
Clear Mental Clutter: A Simple Way to Unlock Your Intuition
We take the next step—writing or talking it out in this third episode of the Intuition Activation Challenge. Mandi shares how freeing up mental clutter can reveal hidden truths we might not even reali... ...more
Podcast
April 10, 2025•1 min read
Trust Your Gut: The Secret to Making Confident Decisions
Now we build upon the first step—slowing down—by tuning in and listening inward. In this second episode of the Intuition Activation Challenge, Mandi explains how our bodies often know the answer befor... ...more
Podcast
April 02, 2025•1 min read
Can Abusive Men Change? The Truth About Domestic Violence Intervention
Domestic violence intervention—what works, what doesn’t, and what survivors need to know. My guest, Nada Yorke, LCSW, a former probation officer, breaks down expert insights, real-life experiences, an... ...more
Podcast
March 10, 2025•1 min read
AI Companionship Apps
AI companionship apps are skyrocketing in popularity, offering users virtual relationships that feel real. But beneath the surface, these apps raise serious concerns about privacy, emotional manipulat... ...more
Podcast
March 05, 2025•1 min read
Digital Boundaries
With romantic life happening online, it's crucial to discuss how to set and maintain digital boundaries just as we do for physical interactions. Drawing from insights shared by Adam and the team at En... ...more
Podcast
February 26, 2025•2 min read
Finding Love After Abuse and Betrayal: How I Learned to Trust Again
“How do you trust again after betrayal, abuse, and heartbreak?” It’s a question so many survivors ask, and in this episode, Mandi and her partner open up about their journey of finding love after trau... ...more
Podcast
February 19, 2025•2 min read
Do You Need Self Defense Insurance—CCW Permit or Not? Attorney Advice
Wondering if self-defense insurance is worth it, even without a CCW (concealed carry weapons) permit? YES! Get expert insights from an attorney on protecting yourself legally in any self defense situa... ...more
Podcast
February 12, 2025•1 min read
When Witnessing Domestic Violence: Rescue or Call 911?
What would you do if you saw someone being kicked and beaten in broad daylight? Would you rush in to rescue them? Call 911? Freeze in shock, unsure of your next move? My friend found herself in th... ...more
Podcast
February 04, 2025•1 min read
Announcement: Less Lethal Self Defense Class Coming in January
Exciting update about an in-person class scheduled for the end of January in Southern California! This will focus on a less lethal self-defense option for those who may not feel comfortable carrying a... ...more
Podcast
December 17, 2024•1 min read
Mindfulness for Managing Emotional Triggers, Even When Co-Parenting with a Narcissist – Dr. Dorian
Master The Art of NOT “Biting The Hook” with Dr. Marina Dorian, a psychologist and meditation instructor. She shares wisdom from her personal journey of co-parenting with a narcissist. Building on la... ...more
Podcast
December 10, 2024•2 min read
Recovering From Narcissistic Abuse and Complex PTSD: Dr. Dorian’s Story and Advice
What happens when the person you most trusted turns out to be the source of your deepest pain? Hear Dr. Marina Dorian, a psychologist and mindfulness-based counseling professor share her powerful jour... ...more
Podcast
December 02, 2024•2 min read
Healing the Nervous System: Reclaiming Space and Our Voices After Trauma, Therapist Keean Kirk - Part 2
Want to feel safer in your body, embrace your voice, and be ok with taking up space? Listen in as Mandi and Keean explore how being present and reconnecting with your body can transform emotional woun... ...more
Podcast
November 25, 2024•1 min read
Healing the Nervous System: Reclaiming Space and Our Voices After Trauma, Therapist Keean Kirk - Part 1
Whether you're a trauma survivor or simply curious about the connection between mental and physical well-being, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on healing and empowerment. In this episo... ...more
Podcast
November 19, 2024•1 min read
What Do I Think About Guns For Self Defense? Part 3
Wrapping up our series on self-defense with a weapon! We explore both lethal and non-lethal options. Mandi and Andrea dive into the real costs associated with self-defense, such as handguns, training,... ...more
Podcast
November 04, 2024•2 min read
What Do I Think About Guns For Self Defense? Part 2
Listen to part 2 in answering the question I get: "What’s your stance on guns for personal protection?" I share honest insights for those considering firearm ownership, covering everything from the in... ...more
Podcast
October 29, 2024•2 min read
What Do I Think About Guns For Self Defense?
Mandi opens up about her personal journey with firearms, from dealing with the vulnerability of her past to making the decision to own a gun for protection. Joined by her podcast editor Andrea, the tw... ...more
Podcast
October 21, 2024•1 min read
When Being Nice Isn't Safe: A Local Crime Story
Hear this true crime story—a crime trend in my neighborhood. In this gripping episode of the Aware and Prepared podcast, we dive deeper into the importance of trusting your instincts when encounterin... ...more
Podcast
October 14, 2024•2 min read
Pay Attention: Don't Be a Victim of Jugging
Ever feel like someone is following you? Hear about the crime trend, jugging, and how to stay aware and safer. Mandi highly recommends subscribing to police news releases in your local city to be awar... ...more
Podcast
October 08, 2024•1 min read
Behind The Black Belt: Abuse from a Trusted Coach Part 2
Elicia recounts how her experience of being groomed and abused by a martial arts instructor when she was growing up severely impacted her self-esteem, mental health, and life trajectory. Hear things ... ...more
Podcast
October 02, 2024•2 min read
Behind The Black Belt: Abuse from a Trusted Coach
Elicia recounts how her experience of being groomed and abused by a martial arts instructor when she was growing up severely impacted her self-esteem, mental health, and life trajectory. Hear things ... ...more
Podcast
September 24, 2024•1 min read
Build The Ultimate Emergency Go Bag with My Dad, Emergency Prep Expert
What if you could carry peace of mind in your car, ready to help you navigate any emergency life throws your way? In this special episode I’m joined by a very important guest—my dad, Larry, a former M... ...more
Podcast
September 17, 2024•2 min read
Products You Need For Power Outages and Natural Disasters
"Survival Mom" shares her experiences with natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey, which left her and her neighbors without power for days. She explains how having backup energy sources, like generat... ...more
Podcast
September 10, 2024•2 min read
Intuition 101: Recognizing and ACTING on Gut Feelings
Intuition is a survival tool that helps us sense danger by picking up on subtle clues from our surroundings. Mandi shares a practical example of being alone at a gas station at night, explaining how t... ...more
Podcast
September 03, 2024•1 min read
Social Security Number Stolen: Identity Theft
My son’s social security number was stolen in 2018, the theft led to legal challenges, including filing a police report and dealing with credit bureaus to secure the account. The host emphasizes the a... ...more
Podcast
August 19, 2024•2 min read
Financial Sextortion: Fastest Growing Cyber Crime
Financial sextortion occurs when someone is blackmailed after sharing intimate photos or videos online, often with someone they believe to be a trusted friend or partner. The episode shares info from ... ...more
Podcast
August 12, 2024•2 min read
AI and Romance Scams: Protecting Yourself from Online Deception
Dangers of online deception, particularly catfishing scams from romance scammers, are shared as the host reads insights from guest Adam Dodge, who specializes in combating tech-enabled abuse through h... ...more
Podcast
August 06, 2024•2 min read
Should I Share My Passwords With My Boyfriend? Digital Abuse
What are the risks and implications of sharing digital access with partners? ...more
Podcast
July 30, 2024•2 min read
Get Unstuck: Navigating Freeze Responses + Intuition with Britt Frank
Afraid you’ll freeze when in danger or in an awkward social situation? ...more
Podcast
July 01, 2024•2 min read
Love is a Behavior With Dr. Jill Murray
Does the statement “I Love You” match with loving behavior of respect, patience, etc? In this podcast episode, Dr. Jill Murray emphasizes that love should be seen as a consistent behavior rather than ... ...more
Podcast
June 16, 2024•2 min read
Am I Addicted To Chaos and Drama?
DRAMA DETOX! Dr. Jill Murray realized her life was filled with chaotic and drama-filled relationships. Determined to change, she made the drastic decision to cut out all toxic relationships, including... ...more
Podcast
June 11, 2024•1 min read
Navigating Social Media and Real-Life Challenges: Empowering Teens
What is THE main issue affecting teens today? In Dr. Jill Murray’s answer: social media. She says platforms like Instagram can create unrealistic expectations and contribute to depression and anxiety.... ...more
Podcast
June 03, 2024•2 min read
Calm Nervous System To Live Safer
Slow DOWN to live safer! Today Mandi talks about the mind body connection - the importance of addressing both mental and physical health in the body to break the cycle of stress and calm our nervous s... ...more
Podcast
May 27, 2024•2 min read
Justice For Mica: Narcissist Pastor Predators
Hear some of the unresolved aspects of Mica Miller’s death and the behavior of her abuser, Pastor JP Miller. The first part updates listeners on the inconsistencies in Micah’s death, as shared by her ... ...more
Podcast
May 20, 2024•2 min read
Justice For Mica: Exposing Spiritual Abuse in the Shadows
#JusticeForMica. This podcast episode delves into the tragic case of Mica Miller, the wife of Pastor John Paul Miller. She was found deceased with a “self-inflicted” gunshot wound shortly after having... ...more
Podcast
May 14, 2024•2 min read
Inside The Mind with Dr. Manny Tau, Forensic & Clinical Psychologist
Learn a few self defense tips and tools I have not heard of before with Dr. Manny Tau, such as avoiding phone distractions, using flashlights at night, and considering self-defense tools like tasers, ... ...more
Podcast
May 08, 2024•2 min read
Inside The Mind of An Active Shooter: Effective Intervention (Part 2)
In this episode, the host and guest - Dr. Manny Tau, a seasoned threat assessment expert, discuss the case of Elliot Rodger, an active shooter responsible for a tragic rampage in Isla Vista (USCB area... ...more
Podcast
April 29, 2024•2 min read
Inside The Mind of An Active Shooter: Insights From a Threat Assessment Expert
In this episode, the host and guest - Dr. Manny Tau, a seasoned threat assessment expert, discuss the case of Elliot Rodger, an active shooter responsible for a tragic rampage in Isla Vista (USCB area... ...more
Podcast
April 22, 2024•2 min read
Parking Lot Safety: Watch Your Back
Self-defense on the road! LIsten and start to feel empowered to lessen your chances of becoming a victim. Covering a range of practical strategies, the discussion emphasizes many simple things one may... ...more
Podcast
April 08, 2024•2 min read
Self-Defense on the Road: Essential Driving Tips for Safety
Self-defense on the road! LIsten and start to feel empowered to lessen your chances of becoming a victim. Covering a range of practical strategies, the discussion emphasizes many simple things one may... ...more
Podcast
April 01, 2024•2 min read
Aiden's Story: Road Rage Awareness and 4 Safety Strategies
This episode discusses a tragic incident of road rage in Southern California in which a six-year-old boy named Aiden was fatally shot while his mother was driving on the freeway. YES, the killer was c... ...more
Podcast
March 26, 2024•1 min read
Street Smarts: 5 Tactics to Keep Possessions Secure
Current Crime Trend = Theft of purses and wallets at a specific grocery store in California ...more
Podcast
March 19, 2024•1 min read
3 Games To Strengthen Your Observational Skills [Ep. 54]
In this podcast episode, Mandi announces the rebranding of her podcast to "Aware and Prepared" and shares why. She states the podcast is now one year old and shares statistics on the podcast's listene... ...more
Podcast
March 11, 2024•1 min read
![What Our Teens Need To Hear - For 15 Yr Old Me [Ep. 53]](https://storage.googleapis.com/msgsndr/FciMuxVJHBZBtsBs3JQj/media/66c46ce19804407091c9124d.webp)
What Our Teens Need To Hear - For 15 Yr Old Me [Ep. 53]
In celebration of International Women's Day, your host shares with you what she would tell her 15 year old self. Listen in and see if some of these things you also would tell younger you! And what els... ...more
Podcast
March 04, 2024•1 min read
![When Your Admirer Becomes a Stalker: Safety Strategies [Ep. 52]](https://storage.googleapis.com/msgsndr/FciMuxVJHBZBtsBs3JQj/media/66c46d98e71424e4fc3abde9.webp)
When Your Admirer Becomes a Stalker: Safety Strategies [Ep. 52]
What happens when an unwanted admirer escalates to a stalker? Mandi and guest, Joe, urge listeners to take these situations seriously. They explore the nuances of establishing a red line or boundary a... ...more
Podcast
February 27, 2024•2 min read
What To Do If I Have an Unwanted Admirer? [Episode 51]
In this podcast episode, Mandi welcomes back Joe, her mentor and self-defense teacher, to address a scenario where a family friend faces an unwanted admirer who waits for her outside the gym and persi... ...more
Podcast
February 19, 2024•2 min read
Is My Dating Relationship Healthy? Lessons from Gabby Petito's Experience [Episode 50]
Mandi delves into the tragic story of Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie, highlighting the red flags that were present in their relationship before it turned deadly. She discusses warning signs (red flag... ...more
Podcast
February 14, 2024•2 min read
7 Teen Dating Violence Myths and Real Life Examples
In this podcast episode, Mandi introduces a small membership for listeners, sharing insights from their recent quarterly call. A member’s question prompts a discussion on how exactly to call the non-e... ...more
Podcast
February 07, 2024•1 min read
What To Expect When You Call The Police For a Non-Emergency
In this podcast episode, Mandi introduces a small membership for listeners, sharing insights from their recent quarterly call. A member’s question prompts a discussion on how exactly to call the non-e... ...more
Podcast
January 31, 2024•1 min read
Important Tips From a 911 Dispatcher - Part 2
In this podcast episode, Glenna, the dispatch supervisor at a local police department joins us again in part 2. She explains the dispatcher's training in active listening and asking questions in a spe... ...more
Podcast
January 22, 2024•3 min read
Important Tips From a 911 Dispatcher - Part 1
n this podcast episode, the host, Mandi, is joined by Glenna, Dispatch Supervisor at Mandi’s local police department. The episode covers: - When to call 911 versus the non-emergency line - Handli... ...more
Podcast
January 16, 2024•2 min read
When To Call 911 or Non-Emergency Police Number
Mandi announces an upcoming episode featuring a role play with a local police dispatcher named Glenna. To prep for that, Mandi covers topics such as when to call 9-1-1 versus the non-emergency number,... ...more
Podcast
January 10, 2024•2 min read
How To Keep Your Kid Safer Online - Part 2!
Mandi continues a crucial conversation about online safety for children with Clay from the Cyber Safety Cop. Their discussion centers on the alarming issue of online grooming and how children, regardl... ...more
Podcast
December 19, 2023•2 min read
How To Keep Your Kid Safer Online!
In this podcast episode, the guest is Clayton Cranford, a retired law enforcement sergeant from the Orange County Sheriff's Department, who has expertise in internet safety for families. ...more
Podcast
December 12, 2023•2 min read
Meet Your Podcast Host! And Let's Hear From YOU!
In this podcast episode, the host takes a break from the regular content to offer listeners a chance to get to know her better. She shares personal details about her life, such as living in California... ...more
Podcast
December 04, 2023•1 min read
My Story Part 3: How I Healed from DV
In this podcast episode, the host addresses a question she frequently receives about her healing journey after escaping a domestic abuse situation. Her friend, Andrea, interviews her, posing questions... ...more
Podcast
November 28, 2023•3 min read
Stalker Prevention 101: Tracy's Journey and Proactive Safety Lessons [Podcast Episode 39]
In this podcast episode, Mandi engages in a conversation with her guest, Joe, who shares a real-life story about helping a woman named Tracy deal with a serious stalking threat. ...more
Podcast
November 20, 2023•2 min read
A Young Woman's Tale of Being Stalked, Using Intuition, and Surviving [Podcast Episode 38]
My guest, Andrea, recounts a chilling stalking experience from over a decade ago when she was a young graduate living in Pasadena. As the story unfolds, she shares the gradual realization of being wat... ...more
Podcast
November 13, 2023•2 min read
Narcissist Tactics: Watch Out Empaths! [Podcast Episode 37]
The episode highlights instances where the narcissist's impulsive actions clash with the empath's need for understanding. It stresses the importance of recognizing red flags and the challenges of dise... ...more
Podcast
November 08, 2023•1 min read
FAQs: How Do I Get Started With Self Defense? How Do I Spot a Narccisist?... [Podcast Episode 36]
In this week's episode, Mandi, the host and Andrea, the show producer, have a discussion about the best way to start learning self defense and also how to spot a narcissist and what types of personali... ...more
Podcast
October 31, 2023•1 min read
Pets and Domestic Violence: How To Get To Safety TOGETHER [Podcast Episode 36]
Mandi, the podcast host, shares a heartbreaking story of Caitlin and her dog losing their lives, due to domestic violence, emphasizing the urgent need for help. There is a lack of pet-friendly shelter... ...more
Podcast
October 24, 2023•2 min read
Is Your Safety In Your Hands? How To Take Control [Podcast Episode 35]
In this podcast episode, the host delivers a message emphasizing the importance of personal safety and preparedness. They stress that individuals should not rely solely on military or police in times ... ...more
Podcast
October 17, 2023•1 min read
What To Do If You Are Followed By An Airtag [Podcast Episode 34]
In this podcast episode, Mandi recounts her experience of being followed by an Apple AirTag and offers valuable advice, emphasizing the importance of awareness regarding new technologies, privacy conc... ...more
Podcast
October 11, 2023•2 min read
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