Elijah Rising

The Addiction No One is Talking About: SLAA – with Jessica Gobble and Bri McCarthy – Ep. 89

We're familiar with the importance of physical freedom for survivors of trafficking, but what happens when they are still trapped by invisible addiction? Join host Micah Gamboa and Elijah Rising's recovery specialists Jessica Gobble and Bri McCarthy as they explore a critical yet rarely discussed aspect of survivor care: SLAA. This groundbreaking conversation reveals why addressing intimacy-related trauma is essential for preventing re-trafficking and provides hope for true, lasting freedom.In this episode, you'll discover:-What SLAA is and why it's prevalent among trafficking survivors-The science behind trauma bonding and Stockholm syndrome-Common trauma responses to abuse-Why dopamine receptors take 90 days to reset and what that means for recovery-Practical treatment approaches using SLAA-How Elijah Rising is pioneering comprehensive recovery that addresses the whole person-Resources available for survivors and other organizationsSend us a text Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising »Follow us on Instagram »Donate and Support Our Work »

Angela Williams: Trafficked in Houston, Now Fighting Back - Ep. 88

Human trafficking happens closer to home than most people realize—often through those we trust most. Angela Williams shares her powerful testimony of surviving commercial sexual exploitation in Houston, from her first exposure at age 12 to her miraculous extraction eight years ago. Now an advocate working directly with law enforcement and at-risk youth, Angela offers raw insights into the realities of trafficking, the grooming process, and the hope that sustained her through her darkest moments.In this episode, we discuss the myths surrounding trafficking, the challenges survivors face when seeking help, and what communities can do to combat this crisis. Angela's story reveals how faith, determination, and the right resources can transform lives and break the chains of exploitation.Send us a text Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising »Follow us on Instagram »Donate and Support Our Work »

Protecting Our Children: How Churches Can Combat the Demand for Human Trafficking with Phuong Marquez from Demand Disruption - Ep. 87

Did you know that the average age of exposure to pornography is just nine years old? Join us as we dive deep into one of the most critical conversations facing families and faith communities today. Micah sits down with Phuong, Associate Director at Demand Disruption, to discuss how churches and parents can protect children from exploitation and break the cycle that fuels human trafficking demand.In this episode, Phuong shares her expertise on targeting the demand side of trafficking through education, prevention, and community empowerment. Learn practical tools for starting age-appropriate conversations with children, creating safe spaces for families to address these complex topics, and understanding the dangerous landscape kids face online today.About Our Guest: Phuong Marquez is the Associate Director at Demand Disruption, one of the few organizations dedicated to addressing the demand side of human trafficking. She works to enhance church partnerships and implement educational workshops that empower communities to combat exploitation through prevention and awareness.Resources Mentioned:Demand Disruption: demanddisruption.orgFor general questions: info@demanddisruption.orgTo reach Phuong directly: impact@demanddisruption.orgDisruption University learning platform: https://disruptionu.demanddisruption.org/Send us a text Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising »Follow us on Instagram »Donate and Support Our Work »

Leading Through Loss - Michelle Frank - Ep. 86

What happens when God calls you into a completely new season of ministry after decades of faithful service? In this powerful episode, Micah sits down with Michelle Frank, co-founder of Safe Places for Women and author of "Leading After Loss," to explore the journey of navigating major life and ministry transitions.In this episode, you'll discover:How to discern when God is calling you into a new seasonThe vital importance of processing change and transition wellWhy walking through difficult seasons with Jesus is essential for healthy leadershipPractical steps to find mentors and champions in your ministry journeyHow season changes can position you for greater kingdom impactWhether you're walking through your own season of transition or simply want to build resilience for leadership changes ahead, Michelle's hard-won wisdom will encourage and equip you to lead with hope through any season.Michelle Frank has been in anti-trafficking ministry for nearly 20 years. She co-founded Safe Places for Women, which grew to serve survivors across multiple states. Now in a new season of ministry, she coaches and consults with ministry leaders nationwide through InPower Partnerships. Her book "Leading After Loss: How to Navigate Grief and Brave New Beginnings" is available on Amazon.Send us a text Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising »Follow us on Instagram »Donate and Support Our Work »

A Journey of Fighting Human Trafficking with Dennis and Bobbie Mark - Ep. 85

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dennis and Bobbie Mark, founders of Redeemed Ministries and true pioneers in the anti-trafficking movement. After 19 years of dedicated service, they share their journey from strip club outreach to opening one of Texas's first residential homes for sex trafficking survivors. Dennis and Bobbie discuss the evolution of trauma-informed care, the challenges of building programs without precedent, and how their work has influenced law enforcement approaches to supporting victimsTheir story reveals the heart behind the statistics and demonstrates how commitment to serving the most vulnerable can create lasting change. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of anti-trafficking work and the power of restoration.Send us a text Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising »Follow us on Instagram »Donate and Support Our Work »