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.

Choose which platform you’d like to listen and follow the show:

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

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

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

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]

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]

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

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

Digital Self Defense: Do You Really Need To Be a Tech Expert? Part 2 [Podcast Episode 33]

This episode with special guest, Adam Dodge, continues the conversation from last episode on the complexities of gender-based violence in the digital age, the importance of developing empathy and awar... ...more

Podcast

October 03, 2023•2 min read

Digital Self Defense: Do You Really Need To Be a Tech Expert? [Podcast Episode 32]

This episode with special guest, Adam Dodge, highlights the complexities of gender-based violence in the digital age and the importance of developing empathy and awareness in online interactions. ...more

Podcast

September 25, 2023•2 min read

The Tricky Thing About Spiritual Abuse [Podcast Episode 31]

In this episode, Reverend Geneece Goertzen, a survivor of two decades of abuse, discusses her experiences in two abusive marriages, the challenges she faced, and the importance of recognizing and resp... ...more

Podcast

September 19, 2023•2 min read

Science of Stuck: Addressing Anxiety [Podcast Episode 30]

Mandi, the host of the Women Aware and Prepared Podcast, along with Britt Frank, a licensed neuropsychotherapist emphasize the importance of understanding and addressing anxiety and mental health issu... ...more

Podcast

September 11, 2023•2 min read

How To Ask For Help and Find The Right Therapist [Podcast Episode 29]

This podcast episode discusses the importance of asking for help, how to find the right therapist and how best to provide advice to abuse or trauma victims. ...more

Podcast

September 04, 2023•2 min read

22 College Safety Tips To Avoid An Attack [Podcast Episode 28]

In this episode of the podcast, Mandi dives into a crucial topic: the safety of college freshmen. She highlights the prevalent issue of assaults on college campuses, both from strangers and from peopl... ...more

Podcast

August 30, 2023•3 min read

15 School Safety Questions To Ask Your School [Podcast Episode 27]

Mandi shares a personal story of her son at high school dealing with feeling unsafe due to all the recent school shootings. Hear what she did to find out just how safe their school was. Listen as she ... ...more

Podcast

August 22, 2023•2 min read

Peaceful Mind, Peaceful Life: ALL 14 Ideas for Nervous System Harmony [Podcast Episode 26]

Mandi shares a recap of ALL 14 calming things she does to get her body out of fight or flight so she can truly determine what is safe and what is not. I'm sure you have your own ideas for calming your... ...more

Podcast

August 14, 2023•2 min read

8 Things I Do To Calm My Nervous System [Podcast Episode 23]

Mandi continues in the Fight, Flight, Freeze or Fawn series and lists out 8 things she does to calm her nervous system. It's important to feel safe! ...more

Podcast

August 08, 2023•1 min read

6 MORE Things I Do To Calm My Nervous System [Podcast Episode 25]

Mandi continues in the Fight, Flight, Freeze or Fawn series and lists out 6 ADDITIONAL things she does (in addition to the other 8 listed in the previous episode) to calm her nervous system. It's impo... ...more

Podcast

August 07, 2023•1 min read

Fight, Flight, Freeze or Fawn? [Podcast Episode 22]

Do you have a tendency to avoid conflict and just comply? Listen to Mandi discuss what Fawn looks like in the Fight, Flight, Freeze or Fawn scenario. ...more

Podcast

July 24, 2023•2 min read

Fight, Flight or Freeze? 5 Common Stress Reactions [Podcast Episode 21]

Ever had that nightmare where your fingers just cannot dial 911? Listen to the host and her guest, an expert security consultant, discuss fine motor movement impairment and 4 other stress reactions we... ...more

Podcast

July 17, 2023•1 min read

Are You Stuck in Fight or Flight? [Podcast Episode 20]

What happens when you're not able to listen to your intuition? Intuition is a survival mechanism. What happens when your brain listens to EVERYTHING and is on hyperdrive? Maybe your brain is addicted ... ...more

Podcast

July 03, 2023•1 min read

Teen Dating Safety Tips [Podcast Episode 19]

Mandi pulls together a few different interviews for a panel discussion on teen dating. They discuss some things that most aren’t willing to talk about. Learn some teen dating safety tips whether you a... ...more

Podcast

June 26, 2023•1 min read

Teens Social Media Safety Mental Health [Podcast Episode 18]

Mandi pulls together a few different interviews for a panel discussion on social media safety, especially for teens, especially given the recent announcement from our Surgeon General that social media... ...more

Podcast

June 19, 2023•2 min read

Summer Review - Popular Self Defense Episodes [Podcast Episode 17]

Today, Mandi gives you a chance to catch up and thanks you for listening! She gives a quick overview of past episodes so you can make sure you didn't miss anything. ...more

Podcast

June 12, 2023•1 min read

8 Myths About Domestic Violence Shelters [Podcast Episode 16]

Veronica, from our local domestic violence shelter Laura's house, joins the host of Women Aware and Prepared, Mandi. They discuss some of the myths about domestic violence shelters, such as: ...more

Podcast

June 05, 2023•1 min read

Do I Need a Restraining Order? with Cyndi and Detective Roberts [Podcast Episode 15]

Cyndi from the San Bernardino District Attorney Office and Detective Roberts from the Chino Police Department join Mandi, the host, in discussing restraining orders. ...more

Podcast

May 30, 2023•2 min read

Victim Resources with Local Police and DA Office [Podcast Episode 14]

The host of Women Aware and Prepared Podcast, Mandi, is joined by Cyndi from the San Bernardino District Attorney Office and Detective Roberts from the Chino Police Department. ...more

Podcast

May 22, 2023•1 min read

Self Defense Tool Wrap Up: Tactical Flashlights and Pens [Podcast Episode 13]

The Women Aware and Prepared host, Mandi, wraps up a mini series on self defense tools. Today she shares about tactical flashlights, pens and pencils ...more

Podcast

May 15, 2023•1 min read

More Self Defense Tools: Stun Guns and Personal Alarms [Podcast Episode 12]

The Women Aware and Prepared host, Mandi, continues a mini series on self defense tools. Today she resumes the mini-series on self-defense tools and wraps up pepper spray, moving on to stun guns and p... ...more

Podcast

May 10, 2023•1 min read

I Was Tracked By An Apple AirTag [Podcast Episode 11]

The host, Mandi, shares her story of being alerted that an Apple Air Tag was tracking her. Everyone needs to know about AirTags and their capability for stalking. ...more

Podcast

May 02, 2023•2 min read

Self Defense Tools: Pepper Spray Part II [Podcast Episode 10]

The Women Aware and Prepared host, Mandi, continues a mini series on self defense tools. Today she talks about pepper spray: what it’s purpose is, how to carry it and the importance of keeping the ele... ...more

Podcast

April 26, 2023•1 min read

Self Defense Tools: Pepper Spray Intro [Podcast Episode 09]

The Women Aware and Prepared host, Mandi, begins a mini series on self defense tools. ...more

Podcast

April 16, 2023•1 min read

Emotional Abuse and Teen Dating Violence [Podcast Episode 08]

Annette is the founder of the Mend Project, a nonprofit organization that provides clarity and education to victims and survivors of emotional abuse. Through free monthly trainings the Mend Project st... ...more

Podcast

April 10, 2023•2 min read

Understanding The Tactics of Predatory Criminals: Kelly's Story [Podcast Episode 07]

The Women Aware and Prepared host reads Kelly's story from the book, The Gift of Fear. We listen as Kelly is manipulated into letting a charming stranger into her home to "help" her with her groceries... ...more

Podcast

April 03, 2023•3 min read

Here's Your Permissions NOT To Be Nice [Podcast Episode 06]

The Women Aware and Prepared Podcast Host, Mandi, shares a story in the news of a young woman attacked after being kind and giving her attacker the benefit of the doubt.. ...more

Podcast

March 27, 2023•1 min read

What Happened to You Doesn't Change Who You Are [Podcast Episode 05]

The Women Aware and Prepared Podcast Host, Mandi, shares a summary of encouraging life lessons learned from the first few episodes. ...more

Podcast

March 20, 2023•0 min read

Most Asked Women's Self Defense Q and As

Joe, Mandi’s mentor, is a retired Marine with 20+ years of experience in training law enforcement and civilians in situational awareness, self defense, and firearms training. He is highly experienced ... ...more

Podcast

March 13, 2023•2 min read

Where are our children disappearing too?

On this episode, she is joined by Andrea, a talented musician and ambassador for the US Institute Against Human Trafficking. Andrea is passionate about human trafficking awareness and gives talks to o... ...more

Podcast

March 06, 2023•3 min read

My Story Part 2, With Detective Ryan

Former Detective Ryan, shares his story of a bank robbing fugitive (my former husband). Ryan describes all the many twists and turns during the 3 years it took to finally apprehend him. ...more

Podcast

February 27, 2023•3 min read

My Story Part 1, The FBI Visit, Court dates

I share my own crazy life story to raise awareness about the importance of recognizing signs of abuse and getting out of an unhealthy relationship as soon as possible. My story began when I was 15 - 1... ...more

Podcast

February 20, 2023•1 min read