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The raw power of lived experience drives everything behind A Contagious Smile, and in this candid episode, Victoria and Michael reveal exactly why they've dedicated their lives to supporting abuse survivors. Fresh off receiving three prestigious awards—including Best Transformative Trauma Advocate for Domestic Violence from Insider Weekly—the couple shares how their platform continues to expand through media features in the New York Times and Good Morning US.
Victoria delves into the darkest moments of her abuse survival story with unflinching honesty. "I can tell you that from someone who lived on a floor in the bathroom because I wasn't allowed to have an ice pack, when I had a shattered face, broken nose, dislocated shoulder... it is so ungodly frightening to do that and feel like I'm going to die here." This visceral understanding of what survivors experience at 1AM when frantically searching for help drives their commitment to being available whenever someone reaches out—even in the middle of the night.
The episode delivers a bombshell announcement: Victoria's biological father, whom she refers to as her "sperm donor" and has been no-contact with for years, will be appearing as a special guest on an upcoming episode. For listeners familiar with Victoria's books "Who Kicked First?" and "Nart Nart, Who's There?", this promises to be an extraordinary conversation addressing deep family trauma.
Beyond personal stories, Victoria and Michael announce the launch of their comprehensive Contagious Smile Academy featuring over 100 courses designed for survivors, supporters, and even those who cause harm but want to change. Through their scholarship program, they ensure financial barriers don't prevent access to healing resources. As Victoria powerfully states, "Those scars are not your success stories—those are your failures," directly addressing abusers while offering pathways toward accountability and transformation.
Have you been searching for voices that truly understand the journey from victim to survivor? Listen now and discover why this podcast has become a lifeline for those who've felt alone in their darkest moments. Then visit acontagioussmile.mn.co to explore their academy and join a community where healing happens every day.

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