Welcome to the Aware and Prepared podcast

where I, Mandi, a trained domestic violence victim advocate helps those feeling vulnerable learn emotional self defense and how to be street smart.

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You deserve to live in peace and safety! Hear safety tips that will help us enjoy empowered lives. Let’s leave worry behind so we can be savvy, aware, and prepared

Cyber Trauma and Digital Safety Plans: What Every Parent and Educator Should Know

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 10/11/2025

How do we really keep kids safe online? What are the signs a child might be silently struggling with digital stress? And how can parents or educators build a realistic, compassionate digital safety plan that actually works? In this conversation, Mandi talks with Deyanira Murga, PPS, CPOI, a professional security consultant and founder of Security Next Gen, about the emotional and mental side of online safety. Together, they unpack what “cyber trauma” looks like, how AI and dating apps are changing the digital landscape for teens, and what trusted adults can do to support youth with empathy and awareness. If you’ve ever wondered how to protect your child or your students from the hidden risks of today’s online world while empowering them to thrive, this episode is packed with practical answers and heart-centered insight.

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How to Leave Abuse Without Leaving Your Pet Behind

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 03/11/2025

How many pet parents do we have here? Don’t our pets provide so much unconditional love and help us heal through heartbreaks and difficult times? Mandi shares an important update about RedRover and their Purple Leash Project, a partnership with Purina that helps domestic violence survivors escape abuse without leaving their pets behind. From grants for pet-friendly shelters to resources for boarding and fostering, these programs are helping survivors and their pets find safety together. Learn practical ways to support this cause and access critical resources to help pets and their people stay safe and heal together.

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True Tales - Why Victims Stay: Hidden Barriers to Leaving an Abusive Relationship

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 28/10/2025

Have you ever wondered why someone doesn’t just leave an abusive relationship? We pull back the curtain on what domestic violence really looks like and the complicated reasons survivors often stay. From fear and finances to faith and trauma bonds, you’ll gain insight that replaces judgment with compassion. If you care about someone who might be in an unsafe relationship (or you simply want to understand this issue more deeply), this episode is for you. Listen now and learn how to truly support survivors - not by giving up on them, but by standing beside them.

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When Relaxing Feels Impossible: Healing from Complex PTSD

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 15/10/2025

Ever find it hard to relax like your body doesn’t know how to come down from survival mode? You’re not alone! In this solo episode, I’m wrapping up our Complex PTSD Series by sharing some additional final thoughts on what trauma has looked like in my own life, including: - How trauma may contribute to early menopause - Difficulty processing emotions - The inability to relax - Reflections on hypervigilance, numbness, and learning self-compassion Hear practical ways to start reconnecting with your body and emotions safely. You are not alone! Healing, peace, and self-trust are absolutely possible.

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