This episode contains sensitive content related to child grooming, human trafficking, and abuse. Listener discretion is advised.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Mya and Sheri Lopez discuss the critical issue of human trafficking, focusing on Sherry's personal experience as a survivor. Sheri shares her journey from being groomed at a young age to becoming an advocate for child protection and trafficking awareness. The conversation highlights the grooming process, the realities of trafficking, and the importance of legislation to protect survivors. Sherry also introduces her organization, Pearl at the Mailbox, which aims to educate and prevent child grooming and trafficking.

Takeaways

Human trafficking is often misunderstood and dismissed as a distant issue.

Grooming is a gradual process that manipulates a child's perception of safety and love.

Parents must actively engage with their children about their whereabouts and online interactions.

Every trafficked child has an expiration date, emphasizing the urgency of intervention.

Legislation is crucial in holding traffickers accountable and protecting survivors.

Survivors often face stigma and legal challenges that hinder their recovery.

Awareness and education are key in preventing child trafficking.

Social media can be a dangerous tool for groomers targeting children.

Support for survivor advocacy organizations is essential for change.

Every child deserves protection and should be treasured by their families.

Chapters

00:00 Breaking the Silence on Human Trafficking

02:26 Sheri's Journey: From Victim to Advocate

11:20 The Grooming Process: Understanding Manipulation

18:26 Legislation and the Fight Against Trafficking

20:40 Finding Freedom: The Role of Advocacy

22:28 The Reality of Online Grooming

24:45 The Dangers of Social Media Apps

26:40 Coping with Trauma and Speaking Out

28:28 Legislative Victories for Survivors

30:03 Understanding Grooming in Boys

31:23 Introducing Pearl at the Mailbox

33:01 Grooming Prevention and Resources

36:11 Teaching Children About Touch and Safety

41:20 The Importance of Open Conversations

45:16 Treasuring and Protecting Our Children

Sheri Lopez / Pearl at the Mailbox – Contact Info

• Website: www.pearlautthemailbox.org

• Facebook: Pearl at the Mailbox

• Instagram: Pearl at the Mailbox

• X (formerly Twitter): Pearl at the Mailbox

• LinkedIn: Sherri Lopez (Note: She mentions she’s not very active there and may miss messages)

  
  

  Books:

• Title: Pearl at the Mailbox – Sherri’s grooming story, non-graphic, showing the manipulation process and how her allegiance shifted.

• Upcoming Book: 6,000 – Focused on her full trafficking experience, designed to educate young people and parents.