The Cyber Fight Against Human Trafficking & The Power of Brotherhood – Ryan McCullough
Manage episode 469689323 series 3562916
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 operations that disrupt trafficking networks, sharing the raw reality of what it takes to confront this issue head-on.
They explore:
🔥 The surprising role of empathy in combating trafficking
🔥 The evolving landscape of sex buying and online exploitation
🔥 How fatherhood and masculinity shape Ryan’s perspective on advocacy
🔥 The importance of men building deep community to drive real change
This conversation challenges the traditional narrative around trafficking and offers a powerful call to action for men who want to make a difference. If you’re ready to rethink what it means to protect and lead, this episode is a must-listen.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Masculine Wilderness Podcast
02:44 Understanding Cyber Patrols and Their Purpose
06:29 The Journey to Empathy in Addressing Trafficking
11:15 First Experiences in Cyber Patrols
13:50 The Importance of Team Dynamics in Patrols
16:38 Changes in the Sex Buying Culture
21:50 Conversations with Buyers: Troubling and Hopeful Stories
27:12 The Importance of Human Connection
31:57 Men Supporting Men: The Power of Positive Reinforcement
34:55 Cultural Narratives and the Fight Against Sex Trafficking
40:15 Fatherhood and Its Impact on Advocacy
47:39 Processing Experiences: Emotional and Spiritual Reflections
51:08 Life Beyond Patrol: Finding Balance and Community
54:18 Encouraging Active Participation in Society
55:58 Introduction and Gratitude
56:07 Masculine Wilderness Theme.
Let's Connect:
www.epikproject.org
41 episodes