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

Don’t Make This Mistake: Words That Hurt (and Heal) Abuse Survivors

Don’t Make This Mistake: Words That Hurt (and Heal) Abuse Survivors

Don’t Make This Mistake: Words That Hurt (and Heal) Abuse Survivors
Mandi Pratt
Published on: 27/08/2025

“Why didn’t she leave?” It may sound harmless, but this one question shifts blame onto survivors and lets perpetrators off the hook. The truth is, language shapes how we view abuse — and the words we use can either hurt survivors or help them heal. Hear how to spot victim-blaming language, reframe it to encourage accountability, and use your words to create safer, more supportive spaces. Through real-life examples and practical tips, you’ll discover how even small shifts in language can make a big difference. By listening, you’ll learn: How to reframe harmful phrases into language that holds perpetrators accountable. Why your words matter in shaping culture, allyship, and survivor support. Three simple questions to ask yourself before speaking to ensure your language supports healing, not harm. Listen in to learn how you can avoid this common mistake — and use your voice to be an ally!

Podcast
Tips For Men To Help With Women’s Safety: From Bystander to Ally

Tips For Men To Help With Women’s Safety: From Bystander to Ally

Tips For Men To Help With Women’s Safety: From Bystander to AllyMandi Pratt
Published on: 18/08/2025

Learn (& share!) ideas for how men can be allies in public spaces—because the truth is, sometimes it’s the small choices that make the biggest difference. 💡 By the end of this episode, you’ll know: How to recognize moments where your actions could make a woman feel safer Practical, respectful ways to step in or give space — without overstepping Conversation starters to use with friends, kids, or colleagues so we can all shift the culture together

Podcast
Self Defense & System Failure: Tackling Violence Against Women with HASSL Part 2

Self Defense & System Failure: Tackling Violence Against Women with HASSL Part 2

Self Defense & System Failure: Tackling Violence Against Women with HASSL Part 2Mandi Pratt
Published on: 06/08/2025

“Be aware of your surroundings.” “Don’t walk alone.” “Hold your keys like a weapon.” We’ve heard it all. The real problem isn’t how women move through the world—but the systems that make that world unsafe in the first place. In this bold conversation, I continue my conversation with Amy Watson, founder of Hassl, in the UK to talk about why telling women to “stay safe” isn’t enough—and never has been. We talk about what real prevention looks like and why involving men in this conversation isn’t optional. This episode will offer actionable ideas and helpful bystander info! Listen in and share the episode!

Podcast
Self Defense & System Failure: Tackling Violence Against Women with HASSL

Self Defense & System Failure: Tackling Violence Against Women with HASSL

Self Defense & System Failure: Tackling Violence Against Women with HASSLMandi Pratt
Published on: 29/07/2025

What if we stopped telling women how to stay safe and instead fixed the systems that make them unsafe? In this powerful episode, Mandi Pratt sits down with Amy Watson, founder of Hassl—a UK-based social enterprise dedicated to tackling public harassment at its root. Amy and her team are on a mission to shift the burden off of women to stay safe and onto society, where it belongs. Hassl is pioneering a prevention-first model that includes everyone, not just women.

Podcast