Brains Aren't Robots: A Candid Talk About Mental Overload (Ep. 306)

The weight of mental overload isn't something we often discuss openly, yet it's a universal human experience that affects us all. In this deeply personal episode, I pull back the curtain on my own mental health journey, sharing real-time struggles with panic attacks, creative pressure, and the feeling of running out of mental bandwidth.

Through candid reflection, I explore the patterns I've noticed when my mind reaches capacity—recurring panic attacks in similar situations, discomfort in large crowds, and creative blocks when producing content under pressure. These signals emerged as warning signs that my mental resources were depleted, a realization that came through careful self-evaluation and professional support.

The moment that transformed my understanding of mental health occurred during a group therapy session in the hospital. As each person shared their story, the profound truth hit me: none of us are truly alone in our struggles. Behind closed doors, countless people face similar challenges, some even more difficult than our own. This revelation shattered the isolation that often accompanies mental health difficulties and opened the door to genuine healing.

What makes mental health conversations so difficult is the deeply personal nature of our experiences. Yet these discussions are vital—they remind us that having limits doesn't make us weak; it makes us human. We aren't machines programmed to function flawlessly without maintenance. We're complex beings who sometimes need help, support, and the space to acknowledge when we've reached our capacity.

Whether you're currently struggling with mental overload or supporting someone who is, remember that recognizing our limits is an act of strength, not weakness. Check out our website at voicesforvoices.org/podcast to access our full catalog of episodes addressing mental health and personal growth. Please subscribe, share, and join our mission to help others feel less alone in their journeys.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome and Introduction
4:14 Mental Health and Professional Support
8:21 Recognizing Panic Attack Patterns
16:39 Creative Pressure and Brain Overload
28:00 The Reality of Not Being Alone
43:09 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

#MentalHealth #CandidTalks #MentalOverload #EmotionalWellbeing #BurnoutAwareness #MindfulnessMatters #StressManagement #BrainHealth #SelfCareTips #MentalWellnessJourney #HumanExperience #CopingStrategies #AnxietyRelief #MentalFatigue #RealTalk #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices306

Brains Aren't Robots: A Candid Talk About Mental Overload (Ep. 306)

Why Building a Mental Health Community is Crucial | Ep 312

The power of personal experience drives meaningful change. That's the foundation of Voices for VoicesⓇ, where we've surpassed 300 episodes five months ahead of schedule by sharing authentic stories of mental health, trauma, and recovery.

Founded from my own journey out of deep mental health struggles, documented in "The House of YouⓇ," Voices for VoicesⓇ exists to break the silence around mental wellness and provide a platform for others to share their experiences. Our milestone 300th episode marks not just a numerical achievement, but a testament to the community we've built across nearly 80 countries worldwide.

What makes our approach unique is our ability to connect diverse topics—from fantasy literature to rock stars' struggles with self-doubt—back to our central pillar of mental health. We don't shy away from difficult conversations, like our recent coverage of the Take it Down Law, which now protects individuals from deepfake nude images. This legislation, championed by Elliston Berry and her family and signed by President Trump, demonstrates how individual voices can create nationwide change regardless of political affiliation.

We've observed that support comes in many forms, not just financial contribution. When I compare certain supporters to tailgating drivers who suddenly vanish (what I call "the ghosts"), it highlights the value of authentic, consistent connection in mental health advocacy. Real support might be as simple as mentioning our show to others, watching an episode, or engaging with our content online.

Our ambitious goal remains helping 3 billion people throughout my lifetime and beyond. You can find our content on Hudson Community Television, through our website at voicesforvoices.org/podcast (no app required), or across social platforms. Whether you're a longtime listener or discovering us for the first time, thank you for being part of this journey where every voice matters, and every story has the potential to change lives.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome and Podcast Access Information
2:14 Celebrating 300+ Episodes Milestone
5:00 Mental Health Journey Behind Voices for VoicesⓇ
8:30 The Ghost Phenomenon in Support
16:42 The Take it Down Law Success Story
24:31 Our Mission to Help Billions

#MentalHealth #CommunitySupport #MentalWellness #SupportSystem #HealingTogether #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityBuilding #SelfCareCommunity #EmotionalWellbeing #MindfulConnections #PeerSupport #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthAdvocacy #PositiveVibesOnly #ShareYourStory #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices312

Why Building a Mental Health Community is Crucial | Ep 312

When trust becomes a weapon: How predators groom their victims with guest Karla Solomon (Ep. 313)

"Trading the use of my body for basic needs" – these haunting words from Karla Solomon capture the brutal reality of human trafficking that occurs not in distant lands, but right here in America. In this powerful conversation, Karla courageously shares her journey through multiple trafficking situations, beginning when she was just twelve years old.

The episode unveils how trafficking actually works through psychological manipulation and grooming. Karla explains how her unstable childhood created vulnerabilities that traffickers expertly exploited. Removed from her mother due to neglect and abuse, then abruptly returned at age eleven, she found herself in an environment of drugs and violence. When an older woman offered the maternal care she desperately craved – waiting at bus stops, making sandwiches, offering attention – it seemed like salvation. Instead, it was calculated grooming that led to exploitation, as this "mother figure" eventually sold her to men in exchange for drugs while simultaneously addicting Karla to those same substances.

What makes this conversation particularly illuminating is Karla's insight into the psychological dynamics of trafficking. "A successful grooming process results in a victim participating in their own exploitation and sale, thinking they've made that choice willingly," she explains. This understanding challenges the common misconception that trafficking victims should simply "run away" or seek help. The invisible chains of emotional dependency, substance abuse, and psychological manipulation create bonds that are as restricting as physical restraints. Years later, as an adult struggling with opioid addiction following a medical procedure, Karla encountered a second trafficker who employed these same tactics – proving how unresolved trauma creates ongoing vulnerability.

Today, Karla works to support other survivors through direct assistance and advocacy. She understands what it means to be desperate, having experienced "being on the streets with a backpack full of dirty clothes and not having any help except for trading the use of my body." Visit karlasolomon.com to learn more about her work and how you can join the fight against human trafficking. If you suspect trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline immediately – because someone's life may depend on your call.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome to Voices for VoicesⓇ
8:10 Karla's Early Childhood Trauma
17:14 Betrayal and Child Trafficking
24:20 Pregnancy and Continued Exploitation

#TrustIssues #GroomingAwareness #PredatorBehavior #KarlaSolomon #VictimProtection #PsychologicalManipulation #UnderstandingGrooming #ProtectYourself #SurvivorStories #MentalHealthMatters #AbusePrevention #TraumaInformedCare #EmpowermentThroughKnowledge #SafetyAndSupport #HealingJourney #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices313

When trust becomes a weapon: How predators groom their victims with guest Karla Solomon (Ep. 313)

Resilient Spirit: How Karla Solomon Turned Pain into Purpose (Ep 314)

What does it take to transform unimaginable trauma into a powerful force for good? Karla Solomon's journey from human trafficking victim to survivor-advocate provides a raw, inspiring answer to this question.

Continuing our conversation from episode 313, Karla shares the harrowing details of her trafficking experience - broken ribs, impossible financial quotas, and constant threats to her family's safety. The turning point came unexpectedly when she discovered a cross necklace among her belongings while hiding in a hotel bathtub. This small symbol reconnected her to faith just days before law enforcement officers raided the hotel and rescued her.

Yet as Karla candidly reveals, "The healing journey afterward was harder than what I survived." She describes hitting rock bottom in October 2017, attempting suicide before a timely call from a friend who "went to war for her" through prayer changed everything. This spiritual awakening became the foundation for her remarkable transformation and calling to help others.

Today, Karla's accomplishments defy expectations. She founded "No Longer Captive" providing emergency assistance to trafficking victims, serves as a court-certified expert witness, teaches law enforcement about trafficking dynamics, and helps shape Texas legislation through her role on the Human Trafficking Survivor Leader Council. Perhaps most powerfully, she now teaches alongside the same investigator who built the case against her trafficker.

"I am extremely proud of the woman that I have become today," Karla reflects, "because I am now a woman that would have protected me as a child." Her story reminds us that our darkest chapters don't define us, and with faith and resilience, we can transform trauma into purpose.

Visit KarlaSolomon.com to learn more about her work and her survivor devotional "Unchained." If you missed the first part of our conversation, please check out episode 313.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome and Introduction
2:25 Karla's Trafficking Experience
7:15 The Faith Turning Point
13:30 From Survivor to Advocate
20:15 Working with Law Enforcement
26:13 Faith, Purpose and Self-Care
33:18 Becoming a Protector and Final Thoughts

#ResilientSpirit #KarlaSolomon #PainToPurpose #OvercomingObstacles #PersonalGrowth #TransformativeJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #InspirationDaily #EmpowermentStory #LifeLessonsLearned #BuildingResilience #MotivationalSpeaker #HealingThroughStruggle #CourageAndStrength #PurposeDrivenLife #HealingJourney #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices314

Resilient Spirit: How Karla Solomon Turned Pain into Purpose (Ep 314)

From Dreams to Reality: How Our Publishing Journey Proves the Haters Wrong (Ep. 315)

We celebrate the milestone of publishing our first book under Voices for VoicesⓇ Publishing while reflecting on the importance of self-belief despite criticism and doubt. Through 310+ episodes, we've remained committed to our mission of helping others find their voice and share their stories.

• Accessing our content easily through voicesforvoices.org/podcast with no app needed or subscription fees
• Finding community through "watch parties" where people gather to enjoy episodes together
• Breaking news about our publishing arm with "Young Siren Born: The Dream Dimension" now available on Amazon
• Dealing with dismissive reactions to our achievements and staying focused on our mission
• The importance of believing in yourself even when others question your dreams
• Embracing the serenity prayer to navigate life's challenges with grace
• Setting realistic expectations while still pursuing big goals

God bless you, God bless the United States of America, and God bless every human from every corner of the world. We love you, we believe in you, and believe in yourself.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome to Voices for VoicesⓇ
5:01 The Impact of Our Work
12:14 Finding Voices for VoicesⓇ Content
16:27 Kindness to Ourselves and Others
24:49 Young Siren Born Book Release
32:35 Dealing with Doubt and Rejection
39:01 Believe in Yourself and Embrace Change

#PublishingJourney #DreamsToReality #SuccessAgainstOdds #ProvingThemWrong #AuthorsOfYouTube #BookPublishingTips #InspirationForWriters #OvercomingObstacles #SelfPublishingSuccess #HatersGonnaHate #WriterCommunity #CreativeEntrepreneurship #BelieveInYourself #ChasingDreams #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices315

From Dreams to Reality: How Our Publishing Journey Proves the Haters Wrong (Ep. 315)

Senator Ted Cruz Protects Victims of Deepfake Abuse & Voice of the Year Award Presentation | Ep 316

Digital exploitation has reached unprecedented levels with the rise of AI technology, leaving countless victims feeling powerless against non-consensual intimate images. Senator Ted Cruz sits down with Justin Alan Hayes to share the remarkable journey behind the Take it Down Act, now federal law, that's changing lives across America.

At the heart of this legislation is the story of Elliston Berry, a 15-year-old Texas high school freshman who discovered AI-generated deepfake nude images of herself circulating throughout her school. The devastating revelation came with another blow—there was no legal recourse because these artificially generated images fell outside existing child pornography laws. "It is hard to be a teenager. It's really hard to be a teenage girl right now," Cruz reflects, speaking as a father of two teenage daughters. "But if you can imagine all of your friends in ninth grade believing they're looking at naked pictures of you..."

This legislative gap prompted Cruz to create the Take it Down Act, which criminalizes sharing non-consensual intimate images (both real and AI-generated) and establishes a framework requiring platforms to remove such content within 48 hours of notification. The bill's journey represents a rare moment of unity in Washington—drafted with Democrat Senator Amy Klobuchar, passing unanimously in the Senate, and ultimately receiving crucial support from First Lady Melania Trump, who helped secure its passage through the House.

The law empowers victims with a straightforward process: contact the platform hosting unauthorized intimate content, and they must remove it within 48 hours or face legal consequences. As Cruz explains, "It shouldn't take a sitting US senator making a phone call to get action." Using existing notice-and-takedown mechanisms already familiar to tech companies, the law gives victims the ability to take their lives back.

Have you or someone you know been affected by non-consensual intimate images? Share this episode to spread awareness about this powerful new legal protection and join the conversation about protecting dignity in our digital world.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Introduction to Voices for VoicesⓇ
1:30 Meeting Senator Ted Cruz
2:24 The Problem of Non-consensual Images
4:04 Elliston's Story and Creating the Act
7:23 Bipartisan Support and First Lady's Role
11:06 How to Use the Take it Down Law
12:35 Voice of the Year Award Presentation

#TedCruz #VoiceOfTheYear #2025 #DeepfakeAbuse #VictimProtection #DigitalSafety #TechEthics #MediaLiteracy #CyberecurityAwareness #PoliticalLeadership #SocialJusticeAdvocacy #OnlineHarassmentPrevention #InnovationInPolicy #EmpowerVictims #LegislativeAction #TechnologyAndSociety #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #presidenttrump #firstladymelaniatrump #melaniatrump #donaldjtrump #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices316

Senator Ted Cruz Protects Victims of Deepfake Abuse & Voice of the Year Award Presentation | Ep 316

The Two Sides of Every Gold Medal: Oksana Baiul Opens Up | (Ep 317)

Gold medals have two sides—the gleaming face everyone sees, and the shadow side few glimpse. In this powerful conversation, 1994 Olympic figure skating champion Oksana Baiul reveals both.

From her extraordinary journey beginning as a four-year-old skater in the Soviet Union to her historic Olympic victory in Lillehammer, Baiul shares the determination behind her success. With remarkable candor, she recounts competing with serious injuries, improvising during her gold medal performance, and the surreal moment she realized her life had forever changed. "What is that? Am I supposed to now sign autographs?" she remembers thinking as crowds suddenly surrounded her after winning.

But beyond the podium lies a more profound story of human struggle. Baiul courageously discusses her battle with alcoholism, overdosing on medication, and finally seeking help at age 37. "Me personally, I grew up, my life had a lot of trauma... I was just drinking because it was basically covering up the pain of poor me," she reveals. Her journey to recovery illuminates the possibility of transformation, self-forgiveness, and finding peace beyond achievement.

Now at 47, Baiul shares wisdom earned through both triumph and struggle: "I have learned to forgive myself for certain things and I have learned to love myself for who I am, for all imperfections." Her message resonates far beyond sports—reminding us that behind every success story is a human being navigating life's complexities, and that asking for help isn't weakness but courage.

Whether you're facing your own battles or simply seeking inspiration, Baiul's story proves that our greatest victories often happen far from the spotlight. Follow our podcast for more conversations that reveal the humanity behind extraordinary achievements.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Introduction and Welcome
1:48 Olympic Gold: The Journey
9:06 The Day of Olympic Victory
16:27 From Gold to Darkness
21:00 Recovery and Self-Acceptance
25:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

#OksanaBaiul #GoldMedal #IceSkating #OlympicChampion #FigureSkating #AthleteJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #SportsStorytelling #BehindTheMedal #SuccessAndStruggle #InspiringAthletes #ChampionsMindset #OlympicExperience #PersonalGrowth #SkatingLife #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices317

The Two Sides of Every Gold Medal: Oksana Baiul Opens Up | (Ep 317)

A Voice Standing Strong Through Adversity (Ep 318)

Raw vulnerability takes center stage as I open my heart about the personal storms threatening to silence my voice. After four years and over 300 episodes dedicated to amplifying voices that matter, I've found myself blindsided by an unexpected "family intervention," the loss of my studio, and divorce papers filed by my wife.

The episode begins with a solemn tribute to Charlie Kirk, whose voice was tragically silenced through assassination, yet whose legacy continues—much like the mission I refuse to abandon despite mounting personal challenges. I take you through the bewildering experience of having loved ones question my mental health and the legitimacy of Voices for VoicesⓇ, despite regular mental health check-ups confirming I'm not experiencing delusions. The pain is palpable as I share how, even after implementing suggested boundaries and earlier bedtimes, my studio was taken away and divorce proceedings initiated.

Against this backdrop of heartache, I proudly highlight recent accomplishments—interviews with Olympic gold medalist Oksana Baiul and Senator Ted Cruz, three published books including a comic book, and our upcoming presence at the Alpha Omega Christian Comic Convention. These tangible achievements stand in stark contrast to accusations that my work isn't meaningful or helpful. Without corporate backing or financial gain, this platform represents pure dedication to helping others find and use their voices.

My message resonates with unwavering determination: "You're not going to take my voice." Whether discussing difficult topics or lighthearted conversations, Voices for VoicesⓇ remains committed to making a difference in people's lives. This isn't just a platform—it's a calling, a legacy of helping others that I believe is my purpose for still being here after surviving past struggles.

Join our community of over 300 episodes where we tackle real issues affecting real people. Your support through likes, shares, and subscriptions empowers us to continue being voices for those who need to be heard. What would you sacrifice to help people you may never meet? That's the question that drives this mission forward, even through the deepest personal pain.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome and Remembering Charlie Kirk
7:39 Personal Intervention Experience
17:25 Mental Health Evaluation and Boundaries
26:35 Voices for VoicesⓇ Mission and Purpose
33:34 Facing Divorce and Family Challenges
46:11 Continuing the Mission Despite Pain

#VoiceOfStrength #OvercomingAdversity #ResilienceJourney #EmpowermentStory #InspiringVoices #CourageousHeart #TriumphOverTrials #HopeAndHealing #StrengthInStruggle #MotivationalSpeakings #PersonalGrowthPath #RiseAboveChallenges #StoriesOfResilience #InnerStrengthUnleashed #UpliftingNarratives #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices318

A Voice Standing Strong Through Adversity (Ep 318)

God's Hand in Our Journey: How Voices for Voices Reaches Millions (Ep. 319)

Justin reflects on the purpose and impact of Voices for VoicesⓇ, expressing gratitude for the organization's global reach across 800 cities in over 80 countries while sharing personal insights about prioritizing what truly matters in life.

• Finding meaning through helping others rather than receiving
• Recent interview with Olympic gold medalist Oksana Baiul, who shared her journey of recovery from alcoholism
• Meeting with Senator Ted Cruz to discuss the Take It Down Act and present him with the 2025 Voice of the Year Award
• Personal reflections on Justin's mental health journey and the importance of seeking help
• How letters of support confirm the organization's positive impact
• Creating a legacy of helping others for future generations
• Reminder that Voices for VoicesⓇ exists to eliminate stigma and create space for sharing stories

Chapter Markers
0:00 Finding Purpose Through Challenges
5:40 Meeting Olympic Gold Medalist Oksana Baiul
10:19 Senator Cruz and Take It Down Act
16:30 Faith Through Mental Health Struggles
24:38 Impact of Voices for VoicesⓇ
32:13 Legacy and Future Vision

Please visit VoicesForVoices.org/podcast to access all of our episodes for free. Be a voice for yourself or someone in need, and let's celebrate the voices of everyone across the world.

#GodsHand #VoicesForVoices #FaithJourney #Inspiration #CommunityImpact #Empowerment #SpiritualGrowth #SocialChange #HopeAndHealing #TransformLives #FaithInAction #PositiveVoices #NonprofitWork #ReachMillions #SupportEachOther #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices319

God's Hand in Our Journey: How Voices for Voices Reaches Millions (Ep. 319)

With Oregon's Future at Stake, Meet Brittany Jones (Ep. 320)

What drives a human trafficking survivor to run for governor? Brittany "BJ" Jones reveals her remarkable journey from military service to gubernatorial candidate in a compelling conversation that showcases her passionate vision for Oregon's future.

Jones, who describes herself as an Oregon native with Patawomeck indigenous heritage, shares how her political awakening came gradually. "When Trump started running for office, it really opened my eyes," she explains, noting that if someone like him could seek high office, citizens needed to pay closer attention to politics. This realization propelled her from a political newcomer to a determined candidate with a clear mission: protecting children's futures.

At the heart of Jones's platform lies a multifaceted approach to child welfare that encompasses school safety, mental health resources, environmental stewardship, and creating safe spaces for all children to express their identities. She speaks with particular urgency about gun violence in schools and the importance of following indigenous leadership in environmental protection. "Our children deserve to have clean water to play in and drink, and forests to be able to explore," she emphasizes, connecting personal parenting experiences to broader policy goals.

Perhaps most surprising is Jones's revelation that she identifies as an introvert who prefers "to just be in my corner with my books and candles." Her candid discussion about navigating campaign life despite this temperament offers a refreshing glimpse into the human side of political candidacy. Running a grassroots campaign while working as a DoorDash driver to maintain flexibility for campaign activities, Jones embodies an authentic approach to politics that contrasts sharply with more polished, established candidates.

Discover how Jones plans to bring meaningful change to Oregon by following her campaign on social media (Facebook: Jones for Governor 2026, TikTok: BJ for Oregon, Instagram: Jones4Governor2026) or through her website. Her story reminds us that political leadership can emerge from unexpected places when driven by genuine passion for creating a better future.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Welcome and Introduction
7:36 Oregon Background and Indigenous Heritage
13:41 Journey into Politics and Future Goals
19:04 Protecting Children's Future
23:35 Indigenous Support and Campaign Process
28:45 Running as an Introvert
24:11 Day in the Life of a Candidate

#OregonFuture #BrittanyJones #PoliticalChange #OregonElections #MeetTheCandidate #VoteSmartOregon #CommunityLeader #SustainableOregon #EmpowermentInPolitics #FutureOfOregon #LocalVoicesMatter #CivicEngagement #ProgressiveLeadership #EnvironmentalPolicyOR #GrassrootsMovement #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices320

With Oregon's Future at Stake, Meet Brittany Jones (Ep. 320)

Breaking the I-5 Pipeline: Oregon's Fight Against Sex Trafficking with Brittany Jones (Ep. 321)

What happens when a political candidate is willing to fund solutions from their own pocket? Meet Brittany "BJ" Jones, Oregon Governor gubernatorial candidate for 2026, whose commitment to change goes far beyond campaign promises.

Our compelling conversation with BJ Jones delves into Oregon's darkest challenges - particularly the rampant human trafficking along the I-5 corridor, one of the nation's worst hotspots. Jones articulates a fresh approach focused on protecting victims rather than criminalizing them, while ensuring perpetrators face maximum penalties. "Our kids, our people, our women, our children, our men - we need to be protected," Jones emphasizes, contrasting with the current system where offenders often receive minimal consequences.

The discussion reveals Jones' personal connection to many of the issues facing Oregonians. As a veteran who experienced homelessness with her children, she understands firsthand the gaps in support systems. Her son's mental health journey informed her advocacy for replacing school principals with licensed counselors - a model she witnessed dramatically improve both behavior and academic performance. This practical experience shapes her vision for comprehensive mental health reform across the state.

Perhaps most striking is Jones' extraordinary commitment to funding initiatives personally if legislative approval fails. Having lived on $12,000-20,000 annually for most of her life, she views the governor's salary as an opportunity to directly fund programs she believes in, particularly her homelessness initiative. "I'm not afraid to lose my couch," she states plainly, expressing her willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for meaningful change.

Jones also addresses the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) and pledges to enforce indigenous treaties that have historically been violated by the government. Her day-one plan includes declaring a state of emergency to address homelessness, indigenous rights violations, and the drug epidemic - giving her directive control over state agencies to allocate resources more effectively.

Want to learn more about this candidate who previously ran for president and now focuses her vision on Oregon? Follow BJ's campaign on Facebook at Jones for Governor 2026, on TikTok @BJforOregon, or visit her website through any of her social media platforms.

Chapter Markers
0:00 Introduction and Previous Episode Recap
5:28 Addressing Human Trafficking in Oregon
11:06 Indigenous Rights and MMIW Crisis
15:26 Day One as Governor: State of Emergency
19:55 Mental Health Initiatives in Schools
30:43 Treaty Enforcement and Closing Thoughts
33:40 Website Information and Show Conclusion

#OregonTrafficking #SexTraffickingAwareness #I5Pipeline #BrittanyJones #HumanRightsOregon #EndSexTrafficking #SurvivorStories #AdvocacyInAction #FightAgainstTrafficking #CommunityActivism #StopTheTrafficOregon #EmpowerSurvivors #LawEnforcementCollaboration #OregonJusticeReform #BreakTheSilence #justiceforsurvivors #justice4survivors #VoicesforVoices #VoicesforVoicesPodcast #JustinAlanHayes #JustinHayes #help3billion #TikTok #Instagram #truth #factoverfictionmatters #transparency #VoiceForChange #HealingTogether #VoicesForVoices321

Breaking the I-5 Pipeline: Oregon's Fight Against Sex Trafficking with Brittany Jones (Ep. 321)

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Brains Aren't Robots: A Candid Talk About Mental Overload (Ep. 306)

Voices for Voices®