Best Epik Project Podcasts (2025)

1
Healing the Wound: Masculinity, Exploitation & the Power of Story with Penny Ronning 1:00:56

1M ago1:00:56

1:00:56

What if the key to ending exploitation lies in the courage to tell the truth? In this gripping and deeply personal episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Penny Ronning—leader of the Yellowstone Anti-Trafficking Task Force—shares a raw and unfiltered look at the realities of commercial sexual exploitation and why men must be part of the soluti…

1
Masculinity on the Edge: Grievance Politics, Andrew Tate & More with Dr. Pasha Dashtgard 51:56

2M ago51:56

51:56

What’s really driving the rise of male supremacy—and how do we bring young men back from the edge? In this gripping and timely episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Dr. Pasha Dashtgard unpacks the complex, high-stakes terrain of modern masculinity in an age defined by digital distortion, political polarization, and emotional disconnection. T…

1
The Cost of Silence: Trauma, Healing & the Role of Men in Breaking the Cycle 53:10

2M ago53:10

53:10

What happens when a survivor becomes the leader of a movement? In this raw and deeply human episode, Tom sits down with Toni McKinley—Executive Director of the Magdalen House in Austin, Texas, and a survivor of sex trafficking herself—for one of the most profound conversations this show has ever hosted. Toni doesn't just talk about trauma—she’s liv…

1
The Next Generation of Change: How Young Advocates Are Fighting Exploitation with Sarina Cooper and Ashlynn Fredendall 50:31

2M ago50:31

50:31

What does it really take to dismantle systems of exploitation? In this powerful episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez sits down with trailblazing advocates Sarina Cooper and Ashlynn Fredendall for an eye-opening conversation about the urgent fight against sex trafficking and exploitation. They pull back the curtain on their jo…

1
From the Field to Fatherhood: Ashton Clark on Manhood, Mentorship & Legacy 54:36

2M ago54:36

54:36

In this episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez sits down with educator and coach Ashton Clark for a powerful conversation about resilience, growth, and the impact of mentorship. Ashton takes us on a journey from his early years in Vancouver, Washington, through the highs and challenges of college football, and into his current …

1
Breaking the Cycle of Shame: A Path to Healing & Redemption with Gene McConnell 1:01:12

2M ago1:01:12

1:01:12

Shame thrives in silence, but what happens when we finally confront it? In this episode, Gene McConnell shares his raw and deeply personal journey from addiction and self-destruction to redemption, revealing the transformative power of vulnerability, love, and accountability. Together with host Tom Perez, Gene unpacks the hidden wounds of childhood…

1
The Cyber Fight Against Human Trafficking & The Power of Brotherhood – Ryan McCullough 56:32

3M ago56:32

56:32

What if the key to fighting human trafficking wasn’t just law enforcement action but everyday men stepping up with empathy, courage, and connection? In this gripping episode of The Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Tom sits down with Ryan McCullough, a dedicated cyber-patrol volunteer for Epik since 2017. Ryan takes us behind the scenes of digital oper…

1
The Evolution of Anti-Trafficking Efforts with Elizabeth Scaife 58:06

3M ago58:06

58:06

Elizabeth Scaife is a long-time advocate against human trafficking, her formative experiences, and the evolution of the movement over the past 16 years are discussed in this episode. The conversation highlights the importance of survivor voices, the challenges that remain in the field, and the need for cultural shifts in understanding and addressin…

1
The Dark Reality of Sex Buyers with Yasmin Vafa 49:43

3M ago49:43

49:43

Yasmin Vafa, founder of Rights for Girls, returns to the podcast for a second time to discuss the recently published report 'Buyers Unmasked.' The report aims to expose the realities of sex buyers, dispelling myths about their nature and behaviors. Yasmin shares insights from sex buyers' review boards, highlighting the disturbing attitudes and acti…

1
Exploring Vulnerability Through Film with Irene Taylor 48:25

4M ago48:25

48:25

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a deep conversation with award-winning filmmaker Irene Taylor. Irene's films, most recently a documentary on Celine Dion, also include exposes on the abuse uncovered within the ranks of The Boy Scouts as well as the Slenderman case. On the podcast, Tom and Irene explore …

1
Teamwork in Life and Sports w/ Former NFL Player Andy McCollum 53:21

4M ago53:21

53:21

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a heartfelt conversation with retired NFL player Andy McCollum. They explore Andy's transition from professional football to a successful career in financial advising, the joys and challenges of family life, and the unique experiences of being part of a Super Bowl-winnin…

1
Community Collaboration in the Face of Trafficking with Tina Taylor Sims 42:31

4M ago42:31

42:31

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a profound conversation with Tina Taylor Sims, a survivor and advocate against human trafficking. They explore Tina's journey, her work in Humboldt County addressing trafficking, and the importance of community collaboration. The discussion also delves into the intersect…

1
Familial Trafficking & Resilience with Zoe Bellatorre 1:00:26

6M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez speaks with Zoe Bellatorre, an expert in familial trafficking. They discuss Zoe's background, her work with survivors, and the critical issue of familial trafficking, which often goes unnoticed. The conversation delves into the differences between familial trafficking and other for…

1
Strength and Purpose with Isaac McKeithen 1:02:13

6M ago1:02:13

1:02:13

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a deep conversation with Isaac McKeithen, exploring his journey from martial arts instructor to a leader in the anti-human trafficking movement. They discuss the influence of military discipline on Isaac's life, his career transitions, and the importance of teamwork in v…

1
The Intersection of Pornography and Trafficking with Helen Taylor 1:02:35

6M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a profound conversation with Helen Taylor, Vice President of Impact at Exodus Cry. They explore the complexities of masculinity, the impact of personal experiences on advocacy, and the challenges faced in the fight against human trafficking. Helen shares her journey from…

1
Creating a World Without Exploitation with Lauren Hersh 57:23

6M ago57:23

57:23

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez speaks with Lauren Hersh, the National Director of World Without Exploitation. They discuss the importance of prevention in combating human trafficking and sexual exploitation, the role of family in motivating advocacy work, and the need to support both girls and boys in creating a…

1
Finding Hope Through Beauty with Michelle Boucher 55:28

7M ago55:28

55:28

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a deep conversation with artist Michelle Boucher about the intersection of beauty, trauma, and creativity. They explore how being present and mindful can enhance one's ability to experience beauty in everyday life, the impact of trauma on perception, and the importance o…

1
Unconditional Love in Trauma Recovery with Esther Garrett 54:51

7M ago54:51

54:51

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a profound conversation with Esther Garrett, a seasoned victim advocate. They explore the emotional complexities of advocacy, the importance of being present for those in crisis, and the intricate connections between domestic violence and sexual exploitation. Esther shar…

1
Unveiling the Power of Storytelling with Cami Ostman 49:00

7M ago49:00

49:00

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a deep conversation with Cami Ostman, a mentor and expert in narrative therapy and founder of The Narrative Project. They explore the importance of storytelling in personal growth, the challenges writers face, and how trauma influences the narratives we create. Cami shar…

1
Understanding the Buyer: A New Perspective with David Bennett 53:39

7M ago53:39

53:39

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a profound conversation with David Bennett, a dedicated anti-trafficking advocate. David shares his personal journey, highlighting his commitment to fighting human trafficking and the impact it has on his family life. He discusses the importance of awareness, the role of…

1
The Art of Generative Men with Paul Blais 51:23

8M ago51:23

51:23

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a deep conversation with Paul Blais, an artist and electrician, about the intersection of creativity, beauty, and the challenges faced in the trades. They explore the importance of artistry in craftsmanship, the impact of trauma on creativity, and the role of gender in e…

1
Unveiling the Shadows of Trafficking in Pornography with Jewell Baraka 59:46

8M ago59:46

59:46

Trigger Warning: While this is an important episode, it is also a difficult one. Please take care of yourself while listening and be advised that topics of child sexual abuse, human trafficking, and violence against children are discussed. In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness podcast, host Tom Perez engages in a profound conversation with Je…

1
Empathetic Accountability: Engaging Male Allies in Anti-Trafficking Efforts with Ty Bowden 53:29

8M ago53:29

53:29

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Tom chats with Ty Bowden and his work with The Net, an anti-trafficking organization based in Fort Worth, Texas. He shares how Men Against Sexual Exploitation (MACE) came to be and gives some powerful stories about their efforts to cut down on the demand for commercial sexual exploitation. Ty goe…

1
Nurturing Healthy Masculinity: A Conversation with Ruth Whippman 55:06

9M ago55:06

55:06

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Tom Perez from Epic Project has a deep conversation with author and journalist Ruth Whippman. They dive into her new book, BOYMOM, which talks about the struggles boys face in a world of "toxic masculinity." Ruth opens up about raising three boys, the impact of the Me Too movement, and the big cu…

1
From Law to Liberation: John Richmond's Fight Against Human Trafficking 58:09

9M ago58:09

58:09

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez, CEO and founder of Epik Project, interviews John Richmond, an American attorney and diplomat renowned in the global anti-trafficking movement. John shares his extensive career experiences, from serving as a U.S. Ambassador to monitor and combat trafficking to his current roles at …

1
Friendship and Men’s Mental Health with Ian Fridell and Chris Bragg 1:10:53

9M ago1:10:53

1:10:53

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, Tom Perez, CEO and founder of Epic Project, chats with Ian ('Pancakes') and Chris ('Critter'). They dive into their personal stories about tackling men's mental health and suicide prevention. The guys talk about how their friendship and love for motorcycles sparked the creation of the 'Get Lost F…

1
Storytelling & Belonging with Curtis Miller 1:05:29

10M ago1:05:29

1:05:29

In this episode of the Masculine Wilderness Podcast, host Tom Perez interviews Curtis Miller, the principal consultant at ConnectEd. They discuss the power of storytelling and the importance of belonging in creating positive cultural change. Curtis shares his personal journey and how he discovered the impact of sharing stories in building relations…

1
Confronting Exploitation Globally and at Home with Nicolas Kristof 51:30

10M ago51:30

51:30

In this episode, Nicholas Kristof discusses his journalism career and commitment to ending violence against women and girls. He shares stories of vulnerability and exploitation, highlighting the gender inequities and discrimination that exist worldwide. Kristof emphasizes the importance of education and role models in shaping the kind of men and bo…

1
Unpacking Male Supremacy and Male Supremacist Influencers with Pasha Dashtgard 1:06:50

11M ago1:06:50

1:06:50

Pasha Dashtgard, Director of Research for the Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab (PERIL), discusses online male extremism and the Manosphere. The Manosphere is an interconnected network of blogs, websites, and influencers that promote male supremacist ideology. It includes groups like men's rights activists, pickup artists, ince…

1
Equality and Justice: Taina Bien-Aimé on Ending Human Trafficking 59:30

11M ago59:30

59:30

In a world where many, particularly women and girls, face the horrors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, efforts to combat these injustices must go beyond addressing individual acts of violence to dismantle the systemic structures that perpetuate inequality and harm. We’re all in this together, and each of us has a role to play in creati…

1
Men Leading the Charge: Justin Euteneier on Ending Sex Exploitation 57:54

12M ago57:54

57:54

Creating the world we want to see for our sons demands active engagement in the fight against sex exploitation and trafficking. As men, we bring unique perspectives and strengths to this crucial work, including the ability to challenge and transform harmful gender norms that perpetuate exploitation. We can use our voices to advocate and support sys…

1
The Intersection of Culture and Parenting: How To Raise Safe Sons with Kirby Garry 58:47

1y ago58:47

58:47

In today's digitally driven, amplified, and hyper-connected world, our children face unprecedented challenges, making it crucial to equip them with the tools to navigate societal pressures. By modeling empathy, resilience, and a strong moral compass, we can help them thrive and become respectable individuals. This involves a deliberate effort to mo…

1
Fighting Sexual Abuse in Our Community with Yasmin Vafa 1:08:17

1y ago1:08:17

1:08:17

Fighting Sexual Abuse in Our Community with Yasmin Vafa Sexual abuse is a deeply entrenched issue within our community. However, the focus on the most extreme forms of sex trafficking can blind us from the pervasive reality of everyday sexual exploitation and violence that occur right in our backyard. While attention to extreme cases is crucial, it…

1
Navigating Abuse, Authenticity and Change with Lauren Trantham 1:01:18

1y ago1:01:18

1:01:18

When we stay silent about the big problem of abuse and human trafficking, it's like saying it's okay. However, by breaking the silence, we empower the next generation to confront these issues head-on, fostering a culture of awareness, advocacy, and empathy. It's about shattering the barriers of fear and ignorance and equipping young people with the…

1
Raising Safe Sons - A Disruptors Summit Presentation w/ Tom Perez 44:40

1y ago44:40

44:40

Fighting human trafficking begins with raising safe sons who are compassionate, empathetic, and committed to making the world a better place. By instilling values of humility and empathy in our boys, we cultivate a generation of men who not only understand the gravity of exploitation but actively work to combat it. It doesn't require formal members…

1
Prosecuting Justice: JR's Commitment to Victims of Human Trafficking 1:21:52

1y ago1:21:52

1:21:52

Surviving human trafficking is a journey marked by unspeakable trauma, profound resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Those who have endured this horrific ordeal have faced unimaginable horrors, stripped of their autonomy, dignity, and basic human rights. Yet, amid the darkness, survivors emerge as beacons of hope, reclaiming t…

1
Finding Your Lane: Rebecca Bender's Story of Survival & Advocacy 1:17:15

1y ago1:17:15

1:17:15

In a world where the shadows of human trafficking and sexual exploitation loom large, the fight for justice and human dignity is more urgent than ever. We're called not only to see ourselves for who we truly are but also to recognize the pain of others and respond with unwavering strength and compassion. Each day presents an opportunity to stir up …

1
Kevin Branzetti - The Rise of Online Threats to Children 1:14:12

1+ y ago1:14:12

1:14:12

Kevin Branzetti, co-founder and CEO of the National Child Protection Task Force, boasts a distinguished 29-year career in law enforcement, primarily focused on counterterrorism and violent extremism with the NYPD for 22 years and later at the Manhattan District Attorney's Office for seven years. During his tenure at the DA's office, he spearheaded …

1
Andrea Heinz - Sex Trade Survivor Turned Advocate 1:24:28

1+ y ago1:24:28

1:24:28

Survivor Turned Advocate: Andrea Heinz's Healing, Hope and Advocacy for Abolition of Sex Trade Have you ever wondered how sexual exploitation and sex work impact the individuals involved, particularly women? The ripple effects of commercial sex and sexual exploitation extend beyond the immediate exchange, influencing emotional, psychological, and r…

1
Elizabeth Smart: Abduction, Survival and a Story of Resilience 1:12:52

1+ y ago1:12:52

1:12:52

The miracle of her rescue marked the beginning of a new chapter, but it came with its own set of challenges. Yet, from the dark experience emerged a remarkable woman with an unwavering commitment to turning pain into purpose. Elizabeth's journey led her to establish the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, a testament to her dedication to bringing hope and …

1
Welcome to the Masculine Wilderness Podcast 4:38

1+ y ago4:38

4:38

This podcast is for men and the women who love them. These conversations are about masculinity in today's world, which can often feel like a wilderness. Listen to navigate this wilderness together.By Epik Project

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