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A Contagious Smile Podcast — Kids & Family
A Contagious Smile Podcast

Stop surviving and start thriving. A Contagious Smile is a globally ranked podcast providing a safe haven for abuse survivors and special needs families navigating the journey of trauma recovery. Whether you are healing from domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma, or the daily challenges of disability advocacy, our mission is to turn your pain into power.

Each episode features raw, authentic conversations with survivors, mental health experts, and advocates who share actionable resources for PTSD healing, resilience building, and emotional wellness. We go beyond the struggle to highlight the triumphs of the special needs community, offering support for caregivers and individuals with disabilities who are rewriting their own narratives.

Hosted by Victoria Cuore, an award-winning trauma advocate and survivor, this podcast delivers the “blueprints” for recovery, not just Band-Aids. Join our community to find hope, humor, and the unstoppable spirit needed to rekindle your inner light.

Latest Episodes:

Dissecting Dangerous Law Enforcement Scenarios & Warmhearted Puppy Giveaways: Addressing Officer Safety and Encouraging Responsible Online Behavior Aug 24, 2023

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Ever wondered what it's like to be in the middle of a dangerous law enforcement situation? Brace yourself as my wife Victoria and I dissect the recent Pittsburgh shooting, throw light on the media response during the live event, and discuss the risks officers face without proper protection. We stress the importance of comprehensive training for officers, and discuss the potential benefits of non-lethal force as a safer alternative.
Switching gears, we invite you to meet Stucco, our service dog mascot, and his adorable puppies. Get ready for some heartwarming news - we're giving away three of Stucco's pups to deserving families! Interested? We'll guide you through the nomination process and how you can follow us on social media for updates. Plus, we'll discuss the need for responsible online engagement in cases of abuse and spotlight our sponsorship program that helps care for our furry friends. Come join us for an episode that's a mix of serious conversations and adorable puppy love!

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Navigating Through Domestic Violence: Survivor Advocacy, Support, and Resilience Aug 22, 2023

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How do we navigate the tumultuous seas of domestic violence, both as a survivor and as a supportive partner? That's the question my husband, Michael, and I grapple with in this brutally honest and remarkably enlightening conversation. Our discussion reveals the harsh truth of domestic violence, emphasizing the complexities of why victims often stay in such situations and the vital role of patience, understanding, and forgiveness.
When attempting to escape the clutches of domestic violence, the path is rarely clear or easy. We shed light on the controlling strategies of abusers, from financial dominance to emotional manipulation, and share practical steps to create a safer home environment. My own experiences of weathering these storms serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding ways to protect oneself and one's children.
Lastly, we venture into the realm of survivor advocacy and support, highlighting the journey that led me to protect my daughter and her role in inspiring me to fight. We explore the mental barriers that often obstruct victims from seeking help, and how supportive, non-judgmental guidance can make all the difference. Our conversation is a tribute to those who have survived domestic violence and a call to action for everyone to become more informed and supportive allies. Tune in for a candid and empowering discussion on the realities of domestic violence.

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Celebrating Faith: A Journey of Resilience, Independence, and Inspiration Aug 17, 2023

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Join us on a heartwarming and celebratory journey as we honor the truly inspiring Faith and her incredible journey to health and independence. Having overcome the odds numerous times, Faith has been tube-free for nine months, has escaped the clutches of domestic violence, and is marking her birthday with a new nose piercing and an unwavering spirit. Joining us on this special episode is Faith's father, shedding light on her strength and resilience, her birthday celebrations, and her current favorite Netflix series.
We'll delve into a conversation about the importance of love and gratitude, focusing on Faith's remarkable survival story. She's not just a miracle baby, but a testament to human resilience, enduring 34 surgeries and still finding the courage to smile and inspire others. We'll chat about her selfless nature, her captivating style, and the friendships and connections she's built along the way, including making appearances on TV and radio.
Capping off the celebration, we'll discuss Faith's future plans and her decision to become more self-reliant. Her journey is not just about survival, but also about self-discovery, growth, and resilience. As we celebrate her birthday, we also applaud her strength, thanking her for the invaluable lessons and the waves of inspiration she brings to so many lives. Join us as we celebrate Faith's birthday, her achievements, and the strength of her spirit.

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Exploring the Tapestry of Life: Stories of Strength, Safety, Self-Love, and Service Dogs Aug 15, 2023

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Have you ever looked back at your past and wondered how it weaves into your present? Today, we take you on a journey through time, exploring the intricate tapestry of familial relationships and personal experiences. We share heartwarming stories of strength, resilience, and the life lessons learned from our beloved service dog, Stucco.
Ever heard about a sweet 16-party that turned into a cautionary tale? That's just one of the real-life stories we delve into, as we offer practical safety tips for your loved ones. From the importance of self-defense training for children to securing your home from burglary, we examine various ways to safeguard your family. Amid these serious discussions, we also bring you some laughter with a humorous disagreement over dog care and a narrative about being the lone caretaker of all the dogs.
Wrapping up the episode, we reflect on the power of self-love and the importance of investing in our own well-being. We talk about the uphill journey of recovery and the indispensable role of support systems, both professional and personal. Finally, we extend an invitation to you, our listeners, to join the conversation and share your stories of courage and hope. And remember, there's a Stucko's line giveaway for those who contribute! So sit back, tune in, and let's embark on this journey together.

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Parenting Trials: From the Dark Corners of the Web to Prosthetic Limbs Aug 06, 2023

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Have you ever thought about how the rise of electronic devices and the internet might be affecting our children? We dive into the terrifying reality of sex trafficking in our modern world and how it's influencing our approach to parenting. Our daughter's recent nose piercing became a stepping stone into discussing the importance of open communication and trust, while our experience with birthing puppies brought some much-needed lightness to the serious conversation.
The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as we share personal stories about living with prosthetic limbs and the challenges they present. Drawing a parallel to the tough conversations we need to have with our children, we underline the critical need for parents to address topics like sex trafficking, online safety, and setting boundaries. But it's not all serious - we find time to laugh, explore family dynamics, and even talk about the tradition of renewing marriage vows.
This episode also sees us expressing our admiration for Johnny Depp and his dedication to children's hospitals. Despite personal struggles, his ability to bring joy to sick children is both inspiring and heartwarming. We also tackle the often overlooked issue of domestic violence against men, emphasizing the need for support, understanding, and appreciation. We end on a note of gratitude and excitement for our new website and the upcoming updates. Tune in for a blend of hard-hitting topics and heartwarming moments, offering an authentic peek into our lives!

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Emerging from Domestic Abuse: The Strength of Shondra Aug 02, 2023

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to overcome difficult life situations like domestic violence? Prepare to be greatly moved by our guest, Shondra, who has transformed her harrowing experiences into a powerful message of personal growth, resilience, and the importance of self-love.
In this enlightening conversation, we take a trip through Shondra's life as she recounts her brave journey from an abusive relationship, the challenges she faced as a mother and the strength she found in self-love. From setting aside egos in parenting to understanding the fine line between healthy conflict and unhealthy relationships, Shondra's story is a testament to the power of resilience. She beautifully illustrates the importance of shedding the guilt often associated with failed relationships and recognizing our worth.
We also dissect some intense aspects of her journey such as the emotional impact of losing her virginity at a young age and how she turned that trauma into a significant part of her growth. Shondra’s 20-year journey towards discovering her authentic self in romantic love offers universal lessons and insights. Through her book and her mission of helping others, Shondra encourages us all to use our internal measuring stick to evaluate our relationships and recognize when it's time to exit. This episode is more than just a story; it's an exploration of personal growth and a testament to the power of resilience. Join us for this inspiring, empowering and enlightening conversation with Shondra, and learn how to navigate life's challenges with grace, dignity and self-love.

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Dialogues on Diverse Topics: From Canine Companions to Cultural Conundrums Jul 30, 2023

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What if you could be part of a conversation that traverses through a multitude of heartening and thought-provoking topics? From warm tales of service dog donations to insightful discussions on the rising violence in the world, we bring you an episode that is equal parts enlightening and compelling. We also express our gratitude for the overwhelming response to Contagious Smile and share our upcoming plans to bring new offerings and resources.
Join us, as we engage in a dynamic conversation with our beloved friend, Matt Aponte. As we celebrate the growth of Contagious Smile, we delve into Matt's unique sound therapies and their transformative power. We also shed light on the often ignored issue of domestic violence in the military, and the alarming rise of gun violence, stirring a thought-provoking debate on gun control. Also, in this episode, we share our thoughts on the mockery we face, interpreting it as a sign of jealousy and a testament to our growing influence.
Lastly, we let you in on a personal note, opening up about our dreams, relationships, and future plans. We talk about the importance of education, our new invitation for teens to join our podcast, and the heartwarming stories of service dog donations. As we shift gears, we inject some humor into the conversation, discussing our family dynamics and everyday life. We round off the episode with a reflection on the power of resilience and gratitude. So, buckle up and get ready for an episode that is as diverse as it is captivating.

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Understanding and Managing Anxiety: A Conversation with Christopher Glatis Jul 26, 2023

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Ever felt paralyzed by anxiety? Tune into our latest episode where we chat with Chris, filmmaker and author of 'When Your Mind Screams'. Chris provides a deeply personal and raw perspective as he walks us through his late teens, a time riddled with anxiety and panic. His life took a turn when he was diagnosed with panic disorder. Chris talks about a self-made toolbox that he relied on during his toughest times. His narrative is relatable, accessible, and most importantly, hopeful. Chris stresses on the importance of daily breathwork to calm the system, a practice that he says works wonders when used consistently.
In the second half, we delve into the world of trauma and the therapeutic power of sound therapy. Chris shares his own story of how breathing techniques and sound therapy were game-changers for him. He talks about how he now uses these techniques in his work with people dealing with traumatic events. This episode is a deep dive into the realm of self-healing, where we explore how breathwork can help us connect with our bodies, and provide us tools to engage with our struggles in a more constructive way. Do not miss out on this enlightening conversation with Chris, that promises to leave you with powerful tools and techniques for managing anxiety.
When Your Mind Screams: Finding Peace and Confidence in the Midst of Anxiety - Kindle edition by Glatis, Christopher. Health, Fitness & Dieting Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

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Journey into the Heart of Relationships: From Trauma to Triumph Jul 23, 2023

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Does freedom exist in relationships plagued by power dynamics, denial, and fear? What happens when the ones we love, the ones we depend on, become the very source of our pain and trauma? This episode takes you on a raw and challenging journey, bringing to light the complex dynamics that lie beneath seemingly ordinary relationships.
Navigating through experiences of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and extreme climates, we also take a stark look at domestic abuse - the silence, the denial, and the power play. There's a story of resilience here, of finding strength in adversity. Of setting boundaries and embracing consent. We also explore the harsh world of toxic relationships, opening up about friends caught in the grasp of narcissistic partners and the ripple effects on families.
Drawing back the curtain on family secrets, we confront the conscience, discussing the burdens of blackmail and the necessity of breaking the silence. Holding up a mirror to our own relationships, we dissect the dynamics within families, the impacts of guilt and blame, and the toll of withholding information. There's a reflection on the challenges of estranged relationships with parents and the path to reconciliation. Yet, amid the turmoil, we reaffirm the enduring power of love, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for self-care. So buckle in, it's going to be a thought-provoking ride.

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Youth Sexuality, Gender Identity and Acceptance: An Intricate Conversation From Our Teen Talk Hosts Jul 19, 2023

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Can an 11-year-old truly grasp the concept of their sexuality? This question sets the stage for our engrossing conversation on this episode. Co-hosts Logan and Faith take you on a profound exploration of the challenges and complexities surrounding youth sexuality and gender identity in schools. With Logan's on-the-ground experience and observations from his own school, we debate on the tender age at which kids are assuming their sexuality, sometimes merely for acceptance, and question whether a young mind is capable of understanding something as profound as sexual preference considering the fact that brain development continues into the mid 20s.
The episode takes an even intriguing turn as we dissect the intricate layers of gender identity, particularly non-binary, and its acceptance in schools. We highlight the recent Miss Netherlands pageant where a transgender participant competed, instigating a deep discussion on the implications of transgender people competing with cisgender counterparts in such platforms. As a fitting conclusion, we delve into the controversy surrounding Dylan, a transgender person recognized with a prestigious medal by the U.S. president, and the ensuing debate. This episode promises to be a compelling journey that challenges your understanding of sexuality and gender identity among the youth.

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