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

Signs of a Healthy Relationship Most People Have Never Been Taught: More Than Green Flags

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 24/02/2026

Why do healthy relationships feel uncomfortable at first? If you've ever come out of a toxic or abusive relationship and wondered whether you'd even recognize a healthy one, this episode is for you. Most of us know what a red flag looks like, but knowing what a green flag feels like is a different skill entirely. Today's guest walks us through the real signs of a healthy relationship from emotional safety and mutual respect to shared power, conflict resolution, and building trust slowly and intentionally. We also talk about why if someone manipulated you into believing they were a good partner, that is never your fault. Whether you're healing from a past relationship or simply want to show up better in the one you're in, this episode will give you a whole new framework for what love is supposed to feel like.

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Depression as a Trauma Response: How to Support Yourself & Others (Part 2)

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 11/02/2026

In this continuation episode, forensic psychologist Ashley Wasserburger explores the depressive face of trauma, the final of four trauma responses discussed in this series. Ashley breaks down how depression manifests as a trauma response, addressing common misconceptions like viewing depressed individuals as lazy or unreliable. She explains how overwhelming daily tasks become, why people isolate despite craving connection, and the masks they wear to avoid feeling like a burden. The conversation covers practical support strategies including breaking tasks into manageable steps, celebrating small victories, and providing tangible help without judgment. The conversation touches on cognitive distortions, the five Cs for addressing intrusive thoughts (catch, control, challenge, change, cherish), and the importance of reframing negative self-talk with curiosity rather than forced positivity. Ashley emphasizes that trauma responses are normal adaptations, NOT character flaws, and discusses how our brains physically change to help us survive, requiring patience and self-compassion as we learn to feel safe in healthy environments.

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Trauma Responses Explained: Understanding Perfectionism, People-Pleasing and Anger

Mandi Pratt

Published on: 28/01/2026

Mandi and Forensic Psychologist, Ashley Wasserburger, explain how behaviors like perfectionism, anger, and people-pleasing are often trauma responses, not personality flaws. They break down the different “faces of trauma” and share why curiosity, patience, and safety matter more than judgment. This conversation helps normalize trauma adaptations and reminds listeners that healing begins when people feel safe, supported, and empowered with choice. Subscribe to the show so you hear Part 2 next week!

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