7 On Sundays™
This week, we dive deep into the critical and under-discussed topic of non-fatal strangulation with expert Brian Bennett. A retired South Carolina law enforcement veteran and police academy instructor, Brian sheds light on the alarming realities of strangulation in domestic violence, sexual contexts, and beyond. Joined by Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye, the conversation explores the physiological, psychological, and societal implications of strangulation, highlighting its role as a precursor to severe violence and the urgent need for awareness and intervention. Topics Discussed:...
info_outline Creating Digital Intentionalism & Cultivating Real Connections: Harrison Haynes on Mindful Technology Use7 On Sundays™
In this enlightening episode, we welcome Harrison Haynes back to dive into the profound impacts of digital dependency and how intentional technology use can enhance our connections and well-being. Harrison, alongside hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye, explores the challenges of social media addiction, digital minimalism, and creating a life of presence. Through personal stories, actionable advice, and reflections, this episode offers a fresh perspective on digital intentionalism. Topics Discussed ● Technology and Relationships: How screens impact our...
info_outline Navigating Intimacy: Lexi's Journey with Vaginismus, Hymenectomy, and Emotional Healing7 On Sundays™
In this heartfelt episode, Lexi shares her deeply personal journey of navigating physical and emotional challenges related to intimacy and sexual health. With the guidance of hosts Stephanie Boye, a seasoned sex educator, and Dr. Chez Leeby, a licensed marriage and family therapist, Lexi opens up about her experiences with hymenectomy, pelvic floor therapy, and finding the courage to advocate for her well-being. Together, they unpack the stigmas and societal pressures surrounding hookup culture, relationships, and self-discovery, offering listeners validation and insights into healing and...
info_outline The Overwhelming Pressure of Hustle Culture on Young Men -Levi's Story7 On Sundays™
In this episode of 7 on Sundays, Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye dive into a candid conversation with Levi, a 20-year-old college student, about the pervasive influence of hustle culture on young people. Levi shares his personal journey of navigating the pressures of achievement, societal expectations, and mental health, offering profound insights on finding balance, authenticity, and purpose. The discussion explores the spiritual and emotional dimensions of hustle culture, providing listeners with both inspiration and practical takeaways. Resources Mentioned...
info_outline Intimacy, Porn, and Mental Health: Lessons from Parker’s Story7 On Sundays™
In this powerful second part of our interview with Parker, we delve deep into the impacts of growing up in a sheltered, conservative environment and the formative influence of pornography on mental health, self-esteem, and relationships. Parker courageously shares her journey of self-awareness and healing, offering listeners valuable insights into overcoming shame, understanding sexuality, and rebuilding confidence. Resources Mentioned ● Digital Intentionalism 7 On Sundays Podcast with Harrison Haynes (episode Discusses strategies to reduce digital...
info_outline Growing Up Conservative: Overcoming Porn Addiction and Shame - Parker's Story7 On Sundays™
In this powerful and candid episode, hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby sit down with Parker, a thoughtful and reflective guest who shares her journey of navigating pornography addiction, self-worth, and sexual discovery while growing up in a conservative household. This episode delves into the impacts of early media exposure, shame, and societal expectations on young people’s sexual development and emotional health. Parker’s openness provides insight and hope for listeners who may feel alone in their struggles. RESOURCES: The Porn Myth: Wendy and Larry Maltz ...
info_outline How Purity Culture Impacted My Relationships and Self-Worth -Haley's Story7 On Sundays™
In this heartfelt episode of 7 on Sundays, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye are joined by Haley, who shares her journey of overcoming an abusive relationship rooted in a restrictive religious upbringing. Through an honest conversation, Haley reflects on her experience within purity culture, the emotional impact of family dynamics, and her path to reclaiming her voice, boundaries, and self-worth. This episode highlights resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of empowering young people to make informed choices about relationships and personal identity. Topics Discussed: The...
info_outline The Dark Side of OnlyFans: Exploring Manipulation, Control, and Empowerment (Sophie's Story)7 On Sundays™
In this powerful episode of 7 on Sundays, hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby dive into the story of Sophie, who opens up about her experience with OnlyFans and the complexities of navigating desire, manipulation, and self-worth. Sophie shares how a trusted relationship initially led her into content creation, which soon became a path marked by emotional challenges, self-reflection, and hard-won insights. Stephanie and Dr. Chez explore the themes of codependency, validation, and finding one's voice amid difficult dynamics. Topics Discussed Sophie's Journey with OnlyFans: How a friend’s...
info_outline Spiritual Connection After Loss: A Conversation with Laura and Beverly7 On Sundays™
In this emotionally powerful episode, hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby engage in a heartfelt conversation with Laura and Beverly, two mothers who have navigated the profound loss of their children. Together, they share their stories, experiences with grief, and journeys toward healing. This episode touches on spirituality, connection with loved ones in spirit, and how Laura and Beverly found support and purpose through Helping Parents Heal, a supportive community for parents who have lost children. RESOURCES Community Recommendations Helping Parents Heal An...
info_outline Part II Surviving Online Predators: Journey to Healing -Harrison Haynes7 On Sundays™
This is the second part of Harrison Haynes' story, a journey that dives deep into healing and recovery from the trauma that began with online grooming. If you missed last week's episode, we encourage you to catch up before listening to today’s continuation. Prepare yourself for a deep dive into a story of survival, resilience, and the power of vulnerability. In this episode, Harrison bravely continues sharing his journey of healing after experiencing trauma from online grooming and self-harm. You’ll hear firsthand how moments of isolation can evolve into powerful opportunities for...
info_outlineToday’s story is about Sara, a survivor of non-consensual pornography (NCP), by her on-again-off-again hook-up we call, Dick! For legal reasons Dr. Chez and Stephanie share this particular story, not Sara herself.
“Non-consensual pornography,” sometimes called “revenge porn,” is the sharing or distribution of electronic or printed photographs, pictures, or films that; show the genitals, anus, or female breast of the other person; or depicts that person engaged in a sexual act. The distribution, either purposefully or inadvertently, harasses, hurts, or shames the individual depicted in the photos. NCP is illegal in most states and punishments range from small fines to jail time, depending on the state.
The newest iteration of this is known as “deep-fake porn,” where an image or recording is created using part real images, part AI generated images to misrepresent someone doing something that was not actually done.
Sara is not alone. In fact, 1 in 12 people are the victims of non-consensual pornography, and 1 in 20 admit to perpetrating this crime. The most likely victims are young people between the ages of 15-29. Women represent 90% of victims and are far less likely to be the perpetrators of this crime than men. A study in 2019 suggests the problem has grown 400%!
In our conversations with young women, we learned that many victims felt coerced or manipulated into taking sexual pictures or videos. Offenders use these images to sell or post (without consent) on sites and/or to blackmail their partners for a variety of reasons.
For many victims of this technological assault, the traumatic aftermath is the same as sexual assault. The severe and disruptive mental health effects include PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The public humiliation and shame confound the psychological impacts.
Sara has successfully moved past this horrifying time in her life. She feels some sense of justice and most importantly, she feels stronger and supported. She is thriving and considering working as an advocate to speak out against non-consensual pornography and help others understand the damage it incurs. For the time being however, she is happy to share her journey with anyone who asks.
The tools and therapies that helped Sara will serve as a balm for the explosion of other victims of NCP.
The resources listed below offer information on your rights and what to do if you are the victim of NCP. There are ways to remove the images and resources for healing. If you are a survivor of these crimes, we want you to know that you are not alone.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning
01:28 Sarah's Story: Understanding Revenge Porn
08:06 Sarah's Journey to Recovery
16:45 Legal and Emotional Ramifications
24:17 Therapies That Helped Sarah Heal
28:52 Raising Awareness About Trauma
36:14 Ethical Considerations and Consent
39:44 The Impact of Non-Consensual Content
42:51 Sarah's Resilience and Final Thoughts
RESOURCES
What To Do if You’re the Target of Revenge Porn (or NCP)
Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice
Know Your Rights (Legal Voice)
National Association of Attorneys General
Find a Therapist Through Psychology Today
RAINN 800.656.HOPE,online.rainn.org y rainn.org/es