Beyond the Monsters

What It's Really Like for Women in Prison

Amie Ichikawa shares her remarkable transformation from incarceration to becoming the founder of the Woman II Woman organization. She opens up about her experiences behind bars, the emotional and psychological toll of prison life, and the difficult transition back into society. Through her story, Amie sheds light on the harsh realities faced by incarcerated women, the silent battles with PTSD, and the urgent need for mental health support.
She also dives into the complex and often overlooked impact of gender self-ID laws on the safety and well-being of women in prison. Her insights reveal the systemic neglect, lack of proper healthcare, and legislative apathy that continue to endanger vulnerable populations within the justice system.
Amie’s advocacy focuses on the need for reform, empathy, and accountability. She challenges the status quo, amplifies the voices of incarcerated women, and calls for stronger support systems and protections.
 
Amie’s Socials
https://www.instagram.com/ichix310 
https://x.com/ichinita310
https://www.facebook.com/amie.ichikawa
 
Woman II Woman Organization
https://www.womaniiwoman.org 
https://www.facebook.com/WomaniiWomaninc 
https://x.com/womaniiwomaninc 
https://www.instagram.com/womaniiwomaninc 
 
Amie’s Articles of Support
California rape case
https://www.foxnews.com/us/third-strike-trans-rape-suspect-prompts-rebellion-against-ca-law-after-attack-womens-prison
 
https://abc7chicago.com/post/pronoun-use-center-rape-case-involving-former-chowchilla-central-california-womens-facility-prisoner-tremaine-carroll/15696730/
 
Wisconsin
https://www.npr.org/2023/06/01/1179301244/minnesota-settlement-lawsuit-transgender-inmate-christina-lusk-prison
 
New York
https://www.nbcnewyork.com/investigations/man-posing-as-transgender-woman-raped-female-prisoner-at-rikers-lawsuit-says/5067904/
 
https://nypost.com/2022/04/09/trans-serial-killer-harvey-marcelins-first-prison-interview/
 
New Jersey
https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/nj-trans-prisoner-impregnated-2-inmates-transferred-mens-facility-rcna38947
 
Canada
https://torontosun.com/news/national/hunter-whos-pushing-violent-trans-sex-killer-on-female-prisons
 
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11818117/Canadas-trans-male-female-prisoners-killers-sex-criminals-alarming-study-shows.html
 
Baby case
https://torontosun.com/news/national/hunter-trans-dangerous-offender-raped-baby-wants-temporary-passes
 
Washington
https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/former-female-inmate-files-lawsuit-claiming-sex-assaults-inmate-who-identified-woman/6VNDA4Y3TJENPBU2N3UFTJ6YE4/
 
Mental Health/S.A Resources:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
 
National Sexual Assault Hotline
RAINN 800-656-4673
 
Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line
741741
https://www.crisistextline.org
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Green Beret’s Reality of S.A, War, Addiction and Healing with Trevor Beaman Part 2

In part two of his powerful story, Trevor Beaman opens up about his journey through substance abuse, mental health struggles, and the impact of military life on his personal relationships. He reflects on the turning points that led him to seek help, asking for support within the military, and the realizations that came during deployments. Trevor also shares his transition to a new life in Key West and his path to healing through therapies like EMDR and ketamine treatment. This episode explores themes of healing, self-love, and the lasting effects of trauma on identity, parenting, and connection. It highlights the transformative power of therapy, the importance of community, and how sharing our stories can spark purpose, resilience, and generational change.
 
Trevor’s Links/Socials:
Trevor’s book, No One Else Can See Your Fire: https://a.co/d/5sgQN5R
https://trevorbeaman.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trevor_a_beaman
 
 
Veteran PTSD Resources:
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ptsd/next-step.asp
 
Combat Call Center: (877)WAR-VETS
 
PTSD Foundation of America -Veteran Line: (877)717-PTSD
https://ptsdusa.org
 
 
Mental Health/S.A Resources:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
 
National Sexual Assault Hotline
RAINN 800-656-4673
 
Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line
741741
https://www.crisistextline.org
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Green Beret’s Reality of S.A, War, Addiction and Healing with Trevor Beaman Part 1

Trevor Beaman is an active duty U.S. Army Green Beret, a husband, father, and a dedicated advocate for mental health and trauma awareness. He shares his journey from a difficult childhood marked by sexual abuse and dysfunction to the rigorous path of becoming a Special Forces soldier.
He opens up about the harsh realities of war—witnessing extreme violence in Afghanistan, losing fellow soldiers, and grappling with the psychological toll of combat. Trevor discusses how these experiences compounded his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, forcing him to confront the lasting impact of both his military career and his past.
 
Trevor’s Links/Socials:
Trevor’s book, No One Else Can See Your Fire: https://a.co/d/5sgQN5R
https://trevorbeaman.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trevor_a_beaman
 
 
Veteran PTSD Resources:
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ptsd/next-step.asp
 
Combat Call Center: (877)WAR-VETS
 
PTSD Foundation of America -Veteran Line: (877)717-PTSD
https://ptsdusa.org
 
 
Mental Health/S.A Resources:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
 
National Sexual Assault Hotline
RAINN 800-656-4673
 
Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line
741741
https://www.crisistextline.org
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Sexual Trauma and Sex Therapy with Emma Smith, PhD

Emma Smith, a licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist, shares her expertise in working with survivors of sexual trauma. She explores the crucial role of consent in therapy, the challenges trauma survivors face, and the diverse therapeutic approaches she employs to support healing. Emma also examines the profound influence of societal norms—such as purity culture—on individuals’ experiences of trauma, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic process.  
 
In this compelling conversation, Emma and Chell navigate key aspects of sexual health, trauma, and therapy. They discuss the delicate dynamics of couples therapy—particularly in the context of trauma and infidelity—and the transformative journey from trauma to post-traumatic growth. Emma underscores the significance of specialized training in sex therapy, the exploration of sexual fantasies in a therapeutic setting, and the importance of finding the right therapist. Cultural influences on relationships also take center stage, offering a deeper understanding of how personal and societal narratives shape individual healing and intimacy.
 
Emma’s Socials and Contact
https://www.instagram.com/emmasmithphd
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/emma-j-smith-nashville-tn/443578
https://linktr.ee/EmmaSmithPhD
Emma’s Website: https://soliloquie.co/ 
 
Sexual Assault Resources:
 
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
 
National Sexual Assault Hotline
RAINN 800-656-4673
https://rainn.org/consulting-services/Crisis-Support
 
Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line
741741
https://www.crisistextline.org
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Troubled Teen to Motivational Speaker with Nathan Wray

Nathan Wray's journey unfolds from being an "Air Force brat" to facing the harsh realities of bullying, substance abuse, and academic struggles. He reflects on the profound impact of his childhood experiences, the power of support and connection in education, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Emphasizing the importance of understanding and communication in both parenting and education, he highlights how these elements shape a child's path to success. His story delves into the consequences of past decisions, including a desperate escape from danger, a turning point with family, battles with sobriety, and the transformative experience of fatherhood. Coping with new responsibilities, financial hardships, and the resilience required to overcome adversity, he ultimately chooses purpose over pain, finding a fresh start in non-profit work. From personal struggles with substance use to becoming a passionate advocate for youth, Nathan sheds light on the importance of emotional regulation, strong support systems, and meaningful student engagement. Addressing the alarming rise of vaping among teenagers and the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences on mental health, he underscores the significance of positive childhood experiences, the critical role of parental presence, and the lasting lessons from his father about preparation and performance.
 
Nathan’s Socials and Links
https://www.nathanwrayspeaks.com
https://www.facebook.com/nwrayspeaks
https://www.instagram.com/thatnathanwray
https://www.tiktok.com/@thatnathanwray
https://www.gigsalad.com/nathan_wray_harriman
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Fatal DUI, Prison, and Sister’s Suicide

Tessa Jennings shares her deeply personal journey through mental health struggles, addiction, loss, and redemption after a tragic DUI accident that took a life and led to her imprisonment. She opens up about the emotional and legal consequences of her actions, the overwhelming guilt she carried, and the societal judgment she faced. As she navigated the hardships of incarceration, she also endured the devastating loss of her sister to suicide, highlighting the painful intersections of grief, mental health struggles, and the failures of the mental health system. Tessa reflects on her path to healing, the coping mechanisms that helped her—including skydiving—and the difficulties of rebuilding her life after prison. She discusses the importance of self-discovery, authenticity, and using her experiences to raise awareness about addiction, mental health, and the power of second chances. Through her story, she hopes to inspire others to find meaning in their struggles and to advocate for compassion and change.
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
 
Drunk Driving Prevention Resource
https://www.responsibility.org/end-impaired-driving
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

A Taxi Ride Made Me a Widow

Chell, the host, shares her deeply personal journey through trauma, love, and loss. In order to help other widows, she opens up about the heartbreaking experience of losing her first husband due to a tragic drunken night that ultimately led to the accident. She reflects on past experiences—including tumultuous relationships and the weight of generational trauma—that have shaped her life. Chell candidly recounts the events of the accident, the emergency response, and the heart-wrenching decisions that followed. Her story stands as a testament to resilience and the complex process of healing from profound grief. Through her narrative, Chell illuminates the emotional struggles of widowhood, the challenges of societal judgment, and the transformative power of empathy and support. Her reflections on the raw realities of grief and personal healing aim to offer comfort and understanding to others navigating similar journeys.
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Two Year Old Child and Dog were Killed in a Car Crash

Naima Hill opens up about her profound journey through grief after the tragic loss of her daughter, Avy, and her beloved dog in a devastating car accident. She shares the raw reality of navigating immense sorrow, the challenges of finding support, and the ways in which society often falls short in offering empathy to those experiencing deep loss.
In her quest to honor Avy’s memory, Naima turned her pain into purpose by founding a nonprofit dedicated to creating spaces that celebrate love and remembrance. She reflects on the contradictions of joy and sorrow, the weight of PTSD, and the complexities of moving forward while carrying the past.
In this heartfelt conversation, Naima and Chell explore the impact of trauma and grief, the struggles of overprotection and fear, and the unpredictable stages of healing. They discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of community, and the ongoing journey of finding light amid the darkness. Naima’s resilience serves as a testament to the strength it takes to rebuild after loss, proving that even in the depths of grief, love and legacy can endure.
 
Avy’s Sunshine Tribe Foundation
https://avyssunshinetribe.com/
https://www.instagram.com/avyssunshinetribe 
https://www.facebook.com/AvysSunshineTribe
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

From Religious Cult to Dominatrix

Raven shares her powerful journey of self-discovery, resilience, and healing. Growing up within the strict Jehovah’s Witness religion, she faced trauma, identity suppression, and addiction, struggling to reconcile her true self with the confines of her upbringing. She courageously speaks about the deep scars left by multiple instances of sexual assault and the lasting impact of those experiences on her mental health. Throughout her story, she reflects on navigating family dynamics, sobriety, and the profound role of plant medicine in her recovery. She emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for consent, exploration, and self-discovery, especially within marginalized communities.  
 
Raven also highlights her advocacy for the military, particularly the Marines, while shedding light on her experiences with complex romantic partnerships. In addition, Raven delves into her empowerment through the world of BDSM, emphasizing the significance of safety, trauma healing, and living authentically. She introduces her alter ego, Raven Roulette, who symbolizes her journey of reclaiming power and self-expression. She also shares her harrowing experience with an abusive partner who exploited her involvement in the BDSM world to manipulate and harm her.  
 
Through writing and her upcoming book, Raven hopes to inspire others to confront their trauma, embrace mental health awareness, and find their voice. Her advocacy aims to provide resources for healing and create a supportive community where others can share their stories.  
 
Raven’s Socials
https://www.instagram.com/theravenroulette https://www.instagram.com/drippinginhope
 
Raven’s book - Releasing this Spring
Dark Erotic Poetry Called "I Should Have Murdered You When I Had A Chance."
Raising mental health awareness for Sex Workers & United States Armed Forces.
 
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988
 
National Sexual Assault Hotline
RAINN 800-656-4673
 
Sexual Assault Crisis Text Line
741741
https://www.crisistextline.org
 
SAMHSA’s National Helpline (mental health and/or substance use)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.

Groomed into Marriage and a Cult

Holly Buss shares her powerful journey of overcoming emotional abuse, manipulation, and religious grooming. She recounts how, as a high school student, she was groomed by an older man—her teacher—into the beliefs of Reformed Christian Reconstructionism, as well as into a marriage that was marked by control and emotional turmoil. This experience of religious and psychological manipulation left her isolated, particularly during motherhood, as she struggled with severe mental health challenges. Holly reflects on her fight to reclaim her identity and protect her children from her ex-husband’s manipulative behavior, highlighting the emotional and legal battles she endured.
 
The conversation explores the challenges women face when navigating a biased legal system, particularly survivors of trauma. Holly emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, documentation, and community support in overcoming these obstacles. Holly and Chell also discuss the complexities of parenting after separation, the need for self-care and healing, and the importance of strong support networks and safe spaces to empower women to rebuild their lives and reclaim their voices.  
 
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233
Find local resources: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
 
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center
https://dvsacenter.org
 
U.S Department of Justice’s Legal Assistance for Victims Program: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/legal-assistance-victims-program
 
Safe Horizon’s Legal and Court Help: https://www.safehorizon.org/our-services/legal-and-court-help/
 
Resources for assistance - financial, housing, necessities, food, etc.
https://www.findhelp.org
https://www.domesticshelters.org
 
 
Beyond the Monsters Socials
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters/
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Holly's Story
06:04 Grooming and Manipulation
10:00 Courtship and Control
15:52 Marriage and Realization
21:50 Motherhood and Survival
32:56 Recognizing Emotional Abuse
34:51 Planning an Escape
36:37 The Fallout of Divorce
41:24 Escalation of Abuse
48:03 Finding Relief and New Beginnings
51:12 The Cost of Justice
54:30 The Turning Point in Court
01:00:35 Empowerment Through Legal Knowledge
01:04:21 Navigating the Costs of Justice
01:10:43 The Importance of Documentation
01:12:18 Finding Support and Community
01:16:28 The Impact of Courtroom Bias
01:24:39 The Role of Empathy in Justice
01:34:45 Navigating Parenting After Separation
01:41:40 The Importance of Self-Care and Healing
01:45:08 Empowering Women in Crisis
01:51:31 Funding the Fight Against Abuse
 
*Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The discussions and experiences shared are based on our personal stories and opinions. This is not medical advice, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any concerns or questions regarding your health.