VSC Podcast

Hosted by Victim Service Center

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160

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May 2026

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The Victim Service Center Podcast sits down with professionals that serve survivors and victims of trauma, or those who have experienced violence, and have conversations about social issues.

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May 13, 2026Episode 1036 min

Ending Violence in Orlando’s Nightlife

Everyone deserves a safe night out — whether at a bar, club, concert, or any space where people gather to relax, unwind, and have fun. Unfortunately, that is not the reality for many. Abusers often exploit nightlife environments where people are meeting new friends, enjoying drinks, and letting their guard down, using these situations to harass, manipulate, or commit acts of violence — including drug-facilitated sexual assault.In this episode, host Olivia Oropeza speaks with experts from the hospitality industry, victim services, and forensic nursing to discuss how we can better recognize, prevent, and respond to violence in nightlife settings. Tune in to learn how we can work together to create safer experiences in our local nightlife communities.Episode 3 Segment 1: Michael Coon, General Manager in Hospitality Michael Coon is a General Manager with 27 years in the hospitality industry – managing and serving in some of Orlando’s top venues. In this segment, Michael shares his wisdom on how to keep staff and patrons safe. Episode 3 Segment 2: Dr. Laura Valle, Ph.D., UCF Director of Victim ServicesYoung adults in college face an elevated risk of assault in nightlife environments, making prevention efforts and reliable support systems critically important. Dr. Laura Valle, Ph.D., from UCF Victim Services discusses the unique challenges college students encounter and how Victim Services staff work to ensure students feel safe, supported, and empowered.Episode 3 Segment 3: Mary Joder, SANE, Forensic Nurse Examiner, Volusia County As a Forensic Nurse Examiner, Mary Joder provides specialized medical care and forensic evidence collection for individuals who have experienced sexual violence, including cases involving drug-facilitated sexual assault. In this segment, she explains her role as a forensic nurse examiner and walks through what patients can expect when seeking care at the clinic following a sexual assault.Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online.Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

January 16, 2026Episode 933 min

Collaboration For Justice

In this episode of the VSC Podcast, host Olivia Oropeza discusses the different entities who work together to provide survivors of sexual violence with the car and justice they deserve after experiencing a sexual assault. In popular media, we don’t always see the coordinated efforts that go on behind the scenes. However, in real life, collaboration is the key to justice. Episode 2 Segment 1: Law Enforcement – Detective Rick SalcedoUCF Detective Rick Salcedo shares the role of law enforcement in how they work alongside other entities to support survivors. Rick Salcedo is a Sex Crimes Detective at the University of Central Florida’s Police Department. Prior to working at UCF’s Police Department, Rick worked for the Orlando Police Department for 26 years and created their Orlando Police Department’s Special Victims Response Team (SVRT), which consists of 32 volunteer patrol officers/first responders who respond to sex crimes and child abuse cases.Episode 2 Segment 2: Forensic Nursing – Mary Yoder, SANE/FNE Nurse, Volusia CountySANE/FNE Nurse Mary Yoder shares why forensic evidence collection is important, how nurses collaborate with law enforcement and advocates, as well as unique ways her role makes a difference. When someone experiences sexual violence, one of the most important steps in both the healing journey and the pursuit of justice is forensic evidence collection. These exams are conducted by specially trained forensic nurse examiners, who not only collect vital evidence after an assault, but also provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to their patients during one of the most difficult moments of their lives. Episode 2 Segment 3: Dr. Erin Hanson, Ph.D.Forensic Scientist Dr. Erin Hanson, Ph.D. explains how advancements in technology are transforming the way we pursue justice for survivors. In this segment, Dr. Erin Hanson discusses how advancements in forensic science are shaping investigations, strengthening cases, and ultimately, bringing closure and justice to survivors. Additionally, Dr. Erin Hanson shares more about her background in forensic science and DNA analysis and why this is essential when it comes to sexual assault. Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online.Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

November 26, 2025Episode 829 min

Emotions in Motion: VSC and the Orlando Ballet’s Unique New Program

In this episode of the VSC Podcast, host Olivia Oropeza introduces a new program that VSC has launched in partnership with Orlando Ballet. This initiative uses the power of movement and dance to promote healing, empowerment and reconnection for survivors of violence, abuse and trauma. Guests interviewed include Co-creators Brandi Godbee and Shane Bland and Emotions in Motion participant Renzo. Brandi Godbee, Lead Therapist/Clinical Manager at Victim Service Center, Co-creator of Emotions in Motion - Brandi is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor. Education: Master's degree with Honors in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College and a Bachelor's degree in English. Trained in EMDR & DBT.Shane Bland, Head of Community Enrichment at Orlando Ballet and Co-creator of Emotions in Motions - As head of Orlando Ballet’s Community Enrichment Division, Shane is a dynamic theater artist with an accomplished career spanning Broadway, national tours, regional theater, television, choreography, and directing. His Broadway credits include Bombay Dreams, Show Boat (Harold Prince), and Disney’s The Lion King. In Orlando, Shane has starred in Ain’t Misbehavin’, Cabaret (as the Emcee at Orlando Shakes), and Beauty and the Beast (as The Beast at the Garden Theatre). His choreography credits include Frozen Jr., Matilda (Broadway World Nominee), and Hairspray. Shane also serves as an adjudicator for the Applause Awards, supporting young performers across the region.Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online.Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

August 22, 2025Episode 729 min

Safe to Love: Empowerment, Boundaries & Dating Safety

This episode focuses on how individuals—especially thosenavigating dating and romantic relationships—can stay safe, assert their needs, and foster mutual respect. While love and connection are universal, dating can also come with risks. From personal safety to consent conversations to boundary-setting, this episode equips viewers with tools to navigate dating with confidence and clarity. Prevention isn’t just about avoiding harm—it’s about empowering people to choose healthy, respectful relationships. In our first segment, we’re joined by Keri Higby, ProgramSpecialist with the Seminole County Sheriff's Office and Adjunct Professor at the University of Central Florida. Keri created the S.A.F.E. Women’s Self-Defense program and brings over a decade of experience in crime prevention, empowerment education, and community safety. In our second segment, we’re joined by Natasha D’Arcangelo,a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who works closely with clients processing trauma and rebuilding their sense of self. Natasha’s work frequently involves helping individuals explore what healthy love and connection look like—especially when they’ve experienced harm or have never had a model for respectful relationships. In our third segment, we are joined by Corrine Phillips, aForensic Nurse Examiner with the Victim Service Center. Corrine works directly with survivors of sexual violence and brings valuable insight into the real-world impact of consent misunderstandings and dating violence. Guest Speakers Keri HigbyTitle: Specialized Services Senior Program Specialist;Adjunct ProfessorOrganization: Seminole County Sheriff's Office; UCFkeri.higby@ucf.edu or khigby@seminolesheriff.org,407-474-5127 Natasha D’Arcangelo, LMHCTitle: Licensed Mental Health CounselorOrganization: LBee HealthContact information to be displayed on screen: LBee Healthwww.lbeehealth.comnatasha@lbeehealth.com Corrine Phillips, FNETitle: Forensic Nurse Examiner CoordinatorOrganization: Victim Service Center of Central FloridaBelow are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to report online.Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

August 8, 2025Episode 629 min

More Than Misunderstood: Understanding and Supporting Neurodivergence

This episode explores the understanding of the intersection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sexual violence prevention—including breaking stigmas, clarifying neurodiverse experiences in relationships, and promoting safety and respect. Individuals with ASD and neurodivergence experience the world in a unique way. However, they also face disproportionate rates of marginalization, discrimination and violence. Additionally, this group is more than 3 times as likely to experience sexual violence compared to those without disabilities. At VSC, we aim to understand the nuances of neurodivergence and how we can all be a part of protecting and supporting this community. In our first segment, we’re joined by Maria Torres, a volunteer for the Autism Society of Florida, an educator in the field and a parent of a child affected by autism spectrum disorder. Maria shares some of the safety challenges that she see’s children with autism struggling with today – including wandering and being drawn to water, which increases the risk of drowning. Also, Maria discusses the importance of families seeking support groups and community. In the second segment, we’re joined by Michelle Zeman, a neurodivergent self-advocate, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and co-host of the REACH podcast—an initiative from the Autism Society of Florida. Michelle uses both personal experience and professional insight to uplift neurodivergent voices, challenge stigma, and expand the conversation around relationships, communication, and safety.In the third segment, we're joined by Catharine Warren, an Autism Specialist with the UCF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Catharine will share how CARD supports individuals, families and professionals in creating safer, more inclusive spaces for people on the autism spectrum. For many neurodivergent individuals, safety is a concern. Catharine shares some of the practical safety strategies that have been effective in supporting neurodivergent people and protecting their family.Guest SpeakersMarria Torres: volunteer, educator, parent and volunteer at Autism Society of FloridaMichelle Zeman: Host of the REACH PodcastOrganization: Autism Society of Florida. REACH - https://www.autismfl.org/reachSafe Space the ABA Podcast - https://www.safespaceaba.com/ IG - @theautisticbehavioranalystCatharine Warren: Autism Spectrum Disorders Specialist at UCF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)UCF Center of Autism and Related Disabilities Contact method: Phone: 407-823-6011 or Email ucfcard@ucf.edu Website: https://ucf-card.org/Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠myflfamilies.com⁠⁠⁠ to report online.Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠

July 25, 2025Episode 532 min

Raising Respect: Shaping the Next Generation of Young Men

This episode explores how we, as a community, can raise boys into men who reject harmful gender stereotypes, respect others, and contribute to a culture free from violence. While prevention often focuses on protecting women, we must also empower boys with the tools and guidance to become upstanders—leaders in empathy, respect, and accountability. In our first segment, we’re joined by Dr. L. Trenton S. Marsh, Assistant Professor of Urban Education at the University of Central Florida and the founder of H.O.P.E. Circle—a youth-driven initiative based in the historic Parramore neighborhood that gives boys of color a safe space to explore mental health, identity, and leadership.In our second segment, we broaden the lens to look at how community leadership can shape safe, supportive pathways for youth—especially boys and young men who are too often overlooked. Joining us is Commissioner Mike Scott, Vice Mayor and Orange County District 6 Commissioner. A lifelong Orlando resident, Air Force veteran, and passionate youth mentor, Commissioner Scott brings a community-centered perspective to leadership and community.In our third segment, we're focusing on culture—and how it shapes the way boys learn to express themselves, seek help, and treat others. Joining us is Fidel Gomez Jr., a community educator and advocate at Hope CommUnity Center in Apopka, Florida. Fidel works directly with youth and is here to provide some insights on gender norms and machismo. Guest SpeakersDr. L. Trenton S. Marsh, Associate Professor of Urban Education at the University of Central Florida and the founder of H.O.P.E. Circle—a youth-driven initiative based in the historic Parramore neighborhood that gives boys of color a safe space to explore mental health, identity, and leadership.Website: www.wearehopecircle.comCommissioner Michael “Mike” Scott, District 6 Commissioner for City of OrlandoFidel Gomez Jr., LGBTQ+ & Immigrant Justice Organizer for Hope CommUnity Center. Email: fgomezjr@hcc-offm.orgWebsite: www.hcc-offm.orgInstagram: @hccapopka Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline: (407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com⁠⁠ to report online.Victim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠

June 20, 2025Episode 430 min

Sober and Strong Overcoming Trauma

In this episode, VSC Education and Prevention Manager Oliva discusses the intersection between substance use and trauma. The relationship between substance use and victimization is complex and deeply intertwined. Research shows that people who have experienced sexual violence are more likely to develop substance use disorder – often as a way to cope with their trauma. At the same time, those who struggle with substance abuse are often at a higher risk of being victimized. This cycle can be incredibly difficult to break but healing, recovery and empowerment is all possible. First guest being interviewed is Sarah Shoulak, founder of Sober Betties – a social group that brings people together for alcohol free-experiences in a fun, retro-inspired atmosphere. Sarah’s journey of sobriety is one of resilience and transformation. They are using their story to help others find joy and community without alcohol. Second guest being interviewed is Heather Parker – an Outreach Specialist from Recovery Connections of Central Florida. Recovery Connections is a peer-led nonprofit dedicated to supporting people in recovery. You will hear their story and dive into the incredible resources available for those looking for support on their journey to recovery. Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit ⁠myflfamilies.com⁠ to report onlineVictim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.orgWebsite⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠

June 13, 2025Episode 329 min

Protecting The Vulnerable

This episode will focus on vulnerable populations - those who may be at higher risk of exploitation, abuse or violence. VSC Education and Prevention Manager Oliva will discuss three specific groups: children, people with disabilities, and older adults. Each of these populations faces unique risks. By raising awareness and providing these resources, we can all play a role in prevention and support. In the first segment, we will be discussing how to keep children safe online. Guest interviewed will be Detective Hannah Crowe, who works in the Crimes Against Children Unit for the Orlando Police Department. She investigates and helps prevent online crimes targeting minors, ensuring that offenders are held accountable and families have the tools they need to stay safe. In the second segment, we will be discussing individuals with disabilities and how we can empower them and support their independence. Guest interviewed will be NataliaPiedrahita, Program Director for the Center for Independent Living or the CIL. The Center for Independent Living has been breaking down barriers for people with disabilities since 1976 and providing a wide range of services from advocacy and skills training to peer support and community inclusion. In the third segment, we will be discussing how to protect and support older adults – another vulnerable population in our communities. Guest interviewed is Deputy Khayree Pender from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Pender has firsthand experience working with senior citizens and their families. He is going to be sharing valuable insights on how we can keep our elders safe. Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325National Sexual Assault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report onlineVictim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠

June 6, 202530 min

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

On this episode of the Victim Service Podcast, we explore the importance of trauma-informed care and its role in a survivor's healing journey. In the first segment, Tamara Nelson, LMHC and Certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapist will be discussing trauma-informed care – an understanding in the way that trauma affects the way a person thinks, feels and behaves. Trauma-informed care means creating a world that can foster growth, resiliency, and healing. It is also anticipating how trauma survivors may respond to our words and actions and doing our part to create a world that does not cause further harm. In the second segment, VSC Victim Advocate and Crisis Counselor Tish Olasande will be sharing what a trauma-informed crisis response looks like. At the Victim Service Center, Advocacy and Crisis Counselors are the first person that a victim meets with. There are several sessions the victim goes through – starting with an intake and other sessions include forming a crisis plan, creating personal goals and helping victims navigating the judicial system. Victim Advocates and Crisis Counselors help lay the foundation for the healing journey. Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325National SexualAssault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida AbuseHotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report onlineVictim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠

May 30, 2025Episode 129 min

Supporting Survivors Through Advocacy and Specialized Care

On this episode of the Victim Service Center Podcast, wedive into the roles of different professionals who support survivors, focusing on the importance of advocacy and medical care. In the first segment, VSC Lead Victim Advocate NicolaPrichard will share how she provides direct support and resources to our survivors. Nicola has her master’s in social work and has worked with the Child Advocacy Center in Osceola before working for the Victim Service Center ofCentral Florida. In the second segment Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner ChrisBemis, BSN, RN, SANE-A will discuss the unique role of SANEs in supporting survivors. In the third segment, Lead Victim Advocate Nicola Prichardis back to debunk some of the myths around sexual violence and supporting survivors. There is a prevalence of misconceptions about sexual violence that canmake it more difficult to work through their healing journey. If you or someone you know needs help, please call our helpline at 407-500-4325. We’re here to share stories, amplify voices, and provide life-saving information and resources because healing starts with connection and you are not alone. New episodes are on the way. Subscribe on Spotify, follow us on social media @VSCflorida and visit ⁠victimservicecenter.org⁠ for more ways to learn, support and get involved. We can’t wait to connect with you! Let’s hold space, listen, learn and heal together. Below are hotlines we recommend:VSC Helpline:(407) 500-4325National SexualAssault Helpline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673Florida AbuseHotline: 1-800-962-2873 OR visit myflfamilies.com to report onlineVictim Service Center of Central Florida, Inc.2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210Orlando, Florida 32806Marketing@VictimServiceCenter.org⁠Facebook⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠TikTok⁠