Talk Trafficking

Heather Estus - The Worthy Ranch

In this inspiring episode, Heather Estes introduces the Worthiness Formula, a transformative approach to rediscovering self-worth through awareness, belief, and community. Heather shares her personal journey to self-empowerment and how it inspired her to create this impactful formula.
Heather also unveils her vision for the Worthy Ranch, a sanctuary designed to support survivors of human trafficking and women in need. Combining equine therapy, self-worth coaching, and career development, the ranch's 90-day program aims to heal and empower survivors as they rebuild their lives. Heather discusses the ranch's collaboration with organizations like the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force and YWCA, its innovative alumni retreats, and the ongoing search for resources to bring this dream to life.
Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, community, and the power of worthiness.
To learn more about The Worthy Ranch, please visit its website HERE. 
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
Heather Estus Bio
Heather is the founder and author of The Worthiness Formula, Worthy YOUniversity, and The Worthy Ranch. She is a mother of five and the oldest of eleven children on a mission to cure the "unworthiness" disease by providing all with a dose of "good enough." She shares her proven method to help people tap into the innate worth we all possess. She helps people identify their core values to become confident decision-makers and teaches them to create a supportive community for their journey. Her audience includes professionals, organizations, and individuals. 
Heather resides in Montana where she is using her 25+ years of nonprofit management and development experience to pursue her dream of building The Worthy Ranch, an equine facility for survivors of human trafficking and abuse. 

Dallas Knight - Skull Games

In this episode, Penny sits down with Dallas Knight from Skull Games to uncover the vital work her organization is doing to combat human trafficking. Dallas shares her inspiring journey from military service to civilian life and how it led her to join the fight against trafficking.Together, they explore the complex connection between escort ads and trafficking, highlighting the critical role Skull Games plays in providing law enforcement with actionable leads. Dallas sheds light on how technology and community awareness can help disrupt trafficking networks while empowering survivors.This episode explores the signs of human trafficking in everyday life, the importance of education, and the reporting of suspicious activity. It’s an eye-opening conversation about taking action and creating a safer world for everyone.
To learn more about Skull Games, please visit their website HERE. 
For the resources referenced by Dallas, please visit: Missingkids.org  Unboundnow.org
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Dallas Knight Bio
Dallas was an Army combat veteran before the age of 20. She eventually transitioned to the civilian realm to start her career as an Intelligence Analyst for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department with an appointed assignment to the Nevada High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) under the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). She spent just short of a decade combating complex narcotic investigations resulting in the disruption and dismantling of numerous criminal organizations. 
After the transition into corporate America, supporting law enforcement from a technological standpoint, Dallas’s professional network bloomed. Through these partnerships, Dallas began to support the nonprofit, Skull Games. Joining with other volunteer veteran analysts, Dallas works to identify victims and hunt down human traffickers while developing intelligence reports to be passed to respective law enforcement jurisdictions. 
Dallas has also had the extreme privilege of mentoring victims who have come full circle to hunt as analysts, sharing their invaluable insight.

Jan Edwards - Paving The Way Foundation

In this eye-opening episode, Jan Edwards, founder of the Paving the Way Foundation, delves into the critical issue of child trafficking and online exploitation. Jan sheds light on the alarming prevalence of these crimes, from rural communities to urban centers, and highlights the role of Big Tech platforms in enabling predators.
Through education and awareness programs, Jan outlines how we can disrupt the cycle of exploitation and offers actionable steps to protect children from online grooming and abuse. Whether you're a parent, educator, or concerned adult, this conversation equips you with essential tools to safeguard children in an increasingly digital world.
Tune in to learn how we can all play a part in creating a safer future for our youth.
To learn more about the Paving the Way Foundation, please visit their website HERE.To learn more about or to contact the Teen Line, please visit their website HERE.The phone number for the Teen Line is 800-852-8336.To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Jan Edwards Bio
Jan Edwards is the founder and president of Paving the Way Foundation. She spent 25 years as an executive in sales and marketing working with organizations like Time Warner, Bright House, the United Nations, and other international groups, before taking on the worldwide initiative to prevent children from being exploited. She is a Co-Chair for the Central Florida Human Trafficking Task Force and sits on the UCF College of Criminal Justice Advisory Board. 
Jan works collaboratively with organizations throughout Central Florida and the nation to fight against child trafficking and exploitation. Since 2017, Paving the Way has educated over 30,000 youth and adults, empowering kids to make smart choices online. Their work has been featured in Huffington Post, Marie Claire UK, and local news stations. 
Jan has been named one of Orlando Magazine’s Women of The Year, Women on the Rise Community Impact Leader, NGO Leader of the Year, and the 2023 Victory Cup winner. She is the writer and co-director of the Award-Winning Film, Trapped in the Trade, which was featured on CNN.

Rebekah Hope - Survivor Advocate

In this deeply moving episode, Rebekah Hope shares her journey of surviving childhood sexual abuse, gang activity, and human trafficking. From her early years in Billings, Montana, to her harrowing experiences in Atlanta, Georgia, Rebekah’s story is one of resilience, courage, and hope. Returning to Montana, she began her healing journey, confronting the physical and psychological challenges that many survivors face.Rebekah and Penny discuss the critical role of survivor stories in combating human trafficking, shaping legislation, and inspiring others. They also delve into the importance of victim-centered, long-term care services and the nuanced path of rebuilding trust and finding spiritual healing—emphasizing that these choices must always remain in the hands of the survivor. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of recovery, advocacy, and the transformative power of sharing one’s truth.
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Rebekah Hope Bio
Rebekah, a courageous survivor, has faced unimaginable challenges in her life. Her story sheds light on the horrors of sex trafficking and the resilience of those who survive it. 
Rebekah’s story highlights the complexities of sex trafficking. It’s important to Rebekah for people to understand that victims come from diverse backgrounds, including both foreign nationals and U.S. citizens. Victims are coerced through violence, threats, and deception. Some are lured with false promises, while others are forced into prostitution by their family members.
Rebekah's resilience is a shining example of the strength of survivors despite the darkness endured. Her journey underscores the urgent need to combat human trafficking. As a survivor of sex trafficking, she understands the powerful impact that sharing her story and advocating for change can have. 
Rebekah holds an undergraduate degree she earned with honors and is currently working toward her master’s degree. She is dedicated to counseling young women and ultimately earning her PhD to provide even greater support to survivors in need.

Rosemary Smith - Getting Better Foundation

In this enlightening episode, Penny Ronning welcomes Rosemary Smith from the Getting Better Foundation to explore how media literacy and critical thinking can combat human trafficking and strengthen democracy. Rosemary recounts the shocking story of Edgar Welch and Pizzagate, demonstrating the dangers of misinformation and the critical need for education to discern fact from fiction.
Together, Penny and Rosemary delve into practical tools for evaluating information, the value of diverse perspectives, and storytelling's transformative power to foster empathy and understanding. Rosemary also shares insights from the Foundation's award-winning documentary, Trust Me, a hopeful and empowering film that showcases how media literacy can create a brighter, more connected future.
Join us for a conversation filled with hope, inspiration, and actionable steps to make a difference—one informed decision at a time.
🎧 Tune in to feel empowered, inspired, and ready to share the message of Trust Me with your community!
To learn more about the Getting Better Foundation, please visit their website HERE. 
To learn more about the Trust Me Documentary, please visit its website HERE. 
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Rosemary Smith Bio
Rosemary Smith has accumulated considerable international experience in the media over the last three decades. She began her career in the media as a co-owner of FCC-licensed radio stations throughout Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Rosemary is a media literacy expert, Montana’s state lead for Media Literacy Now, and envoy to the U.S. State Department’s American Film Showcase. She manages the Montana-based Getting Better Foundation and spearheads its global distribution of the award-winning Trust Me Documentary and the film’s educational curriculum in partnership with the News Literacy Project. 
Rosemary has authored many blogs and is working on her first children’s book about media literacy. She’s delivered presentations and contributed to publications on media and citizenship-related issues in dozens of countries. Rosemary remains interested by the challenges posed by emerging media forms and issues relating to media literacy, mental health, peace, and democracy.

Julia Lillethun - Survivor Advocate

In this powerful episode, Julia Lillethun opens up about her courageous journey of survival and recovery after enduring a devastating attack by a serial rapist. Julia shares her story with raw honesty, discussing the physical and emotional trauma, the judgment and victim-blaming she faced, and the process of overcoming self-blame. She reflects on the challenges of reframing her narrative to focus on survival, resilience, and her choices to move forward.Julia sheds light on the far-reaching effects of trauma on her family and the struggles they faced together. She recounts the unexpected phone call that resolved her case, the complexities of the legal process, and her frustration with sentencing laws. Through her experiences, she advocates for a cultural shift to combat victim-blaming and reduce stigma for survivors.The conversation also explores Julia's transformative work with prison-based Victim Impact Panels, her empowerment in speaking to inmates, and the importance of listening to and believing survivors. Julia and Penny discuss creating safe spaces for victims, addressing gaps in victim support services, and actionable steps to enhance personal safety.This episode is a profound testament to resilience and the strength it takes to transform pain into empowerment.
To learn more about Victim Impact Panels, please visit the Montana Department of Corrections’ website HERE. To learn more about Jane Doe No More, please visit their website HERE.
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
Julia Lillethun Bio
Julia Lillethun was born and raised in Montana. Her family consisted of her father, mother, and 2 brothers. While researching her family history, Julia discovered that she also had eight half-siblings and her father had an alias and was living two separate lives. 
Julia has two adult children and five grandchildren. She loves spending time with family and friends and enjoys the outdoors, fishing, and camping. She also enjoys quilting, sewing, string art, and other hobbies. 2024 marks her 27th year as the director of the Yellowstone County Spelling Bee in Montana. 
Julia’s childhood was filled with trauma at the hands of her alcoholic, abusive father. He could not hold down a job for long, so her family moved often. He was a ranch hand, and her mother was a nurse. Their family alternated from ranch to city life frequently. This made Julia learn to adapt quickly to survive. 
Julia is a cancer survivor as well as a survivor of a violent attack in 1999. Julia was raped, stabbed several times, and left for dead. She now uses her voice to help others and to try to change the stigma and narrative of sexual assault. Julia is a survivor speaker member for Jane Doe No More and a volunteer speaker for the Montana Department of Corrections, Victim Impact Panels. 
Another passion for Julia is working on legislation for survivors. “It is so fulfilling to help others see they don’t have to fight alone and that there is hope, love, acceptance, and support to assist them in healing, rising from the ashes, and emerging from the darkness.”
 

Louis Greek - Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT)

In this episode, Penny is joined by Louie Greek from Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) to explore how the trucking industry is stepping up to fight human trafficking. Louie sheds light on the realities of sex trafficking along American highways and the critical role truck drivers play in identifying and reporting suspicious activity.
The conversation dives into key topics, including the power of survivor voices, tackling the demand side of trafficking, and how partnerships and education are transforming the industry. Louie highlights TAT’s groundbreaking initiatives, like the Man to Man program, which addresses issues of masculinity, sexual objectification, and violence, as well as efforts to include vulnerable populations in this fight.
Listeners are encouraged to be observant, take action in their communities, and utilize TAT’s resources to make an impact. This insightful discussion underscores the importance of prevention, advocacy, and empowering the next generation to join the movement against human trafficking.
To learn more about TAT, please visit their website HERE. 
To learn about TAT’s Man to Man program and other resources, please visit their website HERE. 
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Louie Greek Bio
Louie Greek is a Coalition Build Specialist with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT), a 501(c)3 organization that exists to educate, equip, empower, and mobilize members of the transportation industry to combat domestic sex trafficking. He speaks around the county about TAT’s mission to law enforcement and the transportation industry.  Mr. Greek has over 22 years of law enforcement, military, and humanitarian aid experience and has been fighting human trafficking since 2013. 
In Thailand, he assisted in the creation of the Thailand Internet Crimes Against Children (TICAC) Laboratory at the Royal Thai Police Academy, which is responsible for hundreds of arrests related to human trafficking. From recovering victims while working on human trafficking investigations internationally to working with local U.S. law enforcement to overseas military deployments, he has always had a desire to serve. 

Chris McKenna - Protect Young Eyes

Prior to Interview: Clip of Chris McKenna testifying before the United States Congress.
In this empowering episode, Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes, dives into the vital role parents play in equipping their children for the digital world. From fostering trust and open communication to modeling healthy tech habits, Chris shares practical strategies to help families thrive in an increasingly connected age.Learn about the five layers of protection every family should implement—starting with the critical relationship layer—and discover why tools like routers and informed grandparents are essential for digital safety. Chris also breaks down the EARN IT Act and the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), explaining the urgency of federal legislation to protect children online.Packed with actionable tips, this episode empowers parents and grandparents to stay engaged, take ownership of internet-connected devices, and create a safer digital environment for their kids.Update to Episode: President Biden signed the REPORT Act into law on May 7, 2024.
To learn more about Protect Young Eyes, please visit their website HERE. 
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Chris McKenna Bio
Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes (PYE) is a former consultant and youth ministry director. He has authored resources for families and churches on digital safety and pornography. His 2019 US Senate testimony catalyzed new online child protection laws and earned PYE the Dignity Defense Alert Award. 
Chris is an advisor to legislators and global tech companies on policies and feature improvements. The PYE team performs hundreds of presentations globally and was featured in the film Childhood 2.0. 
Chris is married to Andrea, enjoys family road trips, nature, running, and candy, and is a father to four.
Instagram: instagram.com/protectyoungeyes
Facebook: facebook.com/protectyoungeyes
Website: protectyoungeyes.com

Juliette Angelo - Survivor Advocate

In this compelling episode, singer-songwriter and actress Juliette Angelo shares her journey of survival, resilience, and advocacy. She opens up about her experiences with child exploitation and abuse in the entertainment industry, highlighting the urgent need for better enforcement of child labor laws and protections, especially in theater and dance.Juliette bravely discusses the sexualization of child actors and the unsettling trends she witnessed growing up in the spotlight. She calls for accountability and change while exploring broader themes like the seduction of fame, the role of parenting, and the transformative impact of sobriety on her healing journey.Listeners will be inspired by Juliette’s insights into reclaiming identity and purpose after trauma. She emphasizes the importance of honesty, authenticity, and using art to educate and advocate for safe environments for children. Juliette shares actionable advice on trusting your instincts, supporting others, and fostering healthy, caring relationships.Tune in to hear Juliette’s moving story and call to action to build a better, safer future for the next generation.
Original composition 'Skin and Bones' by Juliette Angelo.
Upcoming events for Juliette Angelo are listed on her Facebook page HERE.  
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit our website HERE.
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Juliette Angelo Bio
Juliette Angelo is an actress, singer, and songwriter. She began performing on Broadway at the age of 8 years old in the shows How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Tony Award-winning original cast of Billy Elliot, and Mary Poppins. 
Juliette made the transition to television when she was an early teen. She is best known for her prominent roles as Emily Fornell on NCIS, Geneva on Shameless, and as Reba McEntire’s daughter June on ABC’s Malibu Country.
After leaving the entertainment industry at 21, Juliette moved to Nashville, then to Albuquerque, and now resides in Billings, Montana. Juliette is also a singer-songwriter and began performing live last year. 
Despite a turbulent childhood and upbringing, Juliette has found peace in a simpler life and a sober existence. Still an avid lover of the arts, she anticipates a long career sharing her music (and acting again one day), but from a different perspective - and sharing different stories. 
Juliette hopes to promote the message that your past does not dictate your future. “While certain wounds may never heal fully, you can still move forward and have a beautiful life. You deserve to.” 
To listen to Juliette’s music, her first record, “Fields of Tennessee”, is available on streaming. It is a collection of raw takes with minimal production. To see Juliette live, you can find her currently performing shows around the Midwest. Upcoming events are listed on her Facebook Page (“Juliette Angelo”). 

Jessica Kay - Survivor Advocate

In this inspiring episode, Jessica Kay shares her courageous journey from surviving human trafficking to becoming a passionate advocate for change. Together with host Penny Ronning, they explore critical topics such as the role of survivor voices in shaping the anti-trafficking movement, the importance of long-term support services, and the need for educational programs and stronger safety measures to protect vulnerable populations.Jessica also sheds light on the nuanced impact of language, the significance of consent in survivor advocacy, and the role of organizations and law enforcement in supporting survivors. The episode takes a deep dive into the controversial topics of decriminalization and legalization of commercial sex, with Jessica offering insights informed by her lived experience.Finally, they discuss practical, actionable steps listeners can take to make a difference in their communities. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone committed to understanding and combating human trafficking while empowering survivors.
To learn more about Jessica Kay, please visit her website HERE. 
To learn more about the Yellowstone Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit their website HERE. 
Host: Penny RonningWriter: Penny RonningProducers: Penny Ronning, Ty LoweEditor: Ty LoweSound Designer/Engineer: Ty LoweMusic: Ty Lowe, Konstantin KlimovGraphic Design: Rae ClarkWebsite: Justin Townsend
 
Jessica Kay Bio
Jessica Kay strives to connect with people on a fundamental level and believes that human connection is the most powerful healing agent we have.  
“I once felt like I was a victim of the system, a stack of mental diagnoses, police reports, and hospital visits - instead of a victim of domestic violence, human trafficking, and homelessness,” said Kay, who decided to tell her story to help others in vulnerable situations find the courage to continue.  “I decided I wanted to dedicate my life to advocating for those who are hurting in our community and use my experiences as a medium to champion change.”
To this end, Kay received a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California (USC). Jessica is currently working as a Clinical Social Work Intern for Brighter Tomorrow and is a Survivor Consultant for UNITAS.  In addition, Jessica is the CEO of I AM Jessica Kay LLC. She also serves as a member of the Steering Committee for the Nevada Policy Council on Human Trafficking, and she played a key role in developing Nevada’s CSEC Strategic Plan. 
Jessica received the Freedom Award from the New Jersey Coalition against Human Trafficking, was named in Las Vegas’ 40 Under 40, and is a survivor leader collaborating with numerous agencies across the country.