8 Podcasts that Centre the Voices of Survivors

Survivors of childhood abuse can sometimes feel isolated in their experiences, which is why hearing the stories of those who have lived through similar trauma can be healing. From personal narratives of trauma and healing to broader discussions about recovery, systemic issues, and resilience, these eight podcasts (in no particular order), featuring the voices of survivors of various types of abuse, will move and inspire. Some focus purely on survivor testimony, while others blend expert insight and lived experience to deepen understanding. 

TRIGGER WARNING: Please note that all the podcasts listed below feature stories and discussions of various types of abuse, including child sexual abuse. If you need support related to child sexual abuse, please reach out to Bravehearts’ Information and Support Line (1800 272 831, Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm). For support related to domestic violence and sexual assault, please reach out to 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732, 24/7). For more support line options for adult survivors of abuse, please click here.

1. Sexual Assault Survivor Stories (SASS)

Sexual Assault Survivor Stories is a weekly podcast designed to provide survivors of sexual assault and rape with information and a forum to better understand the complexities of healing.

Each episode delves into the lived experiences, challenges, and healing journeys of people who have survived sexual violence, with trauma-informed insights woven into the conversations. 

2. The Survivor’s Voice Podcast

The Survivor’s Voice podcast is dedicated to amplifying the stories of people who have overcome a range of traumatic experiences. 

Episodes feature survivors speaking in their own words about the long-term impacts of abuse and paths toward healing, often with reflection on identity and resilience. 

3. STRONGER Podcast

STRONGER podcast reveals the personal stories of male survivors of childhood sexual abuse and their families, and it explores the strength and resilience that carry them through their ongoing recovery.

This Australian-based series from the Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN) highlights voices often underrepresented in public dialogue.

4. I’m a Survivor 

I’m a Survivor is comprised of short, impactful episodes about enduring and healing from domestic violence. Host and survivor, Misty Chaviers, delves into such difficult topics and centres each episode on individual journeys of survival and transformation.

5. After Dark: Stories of Hope

Offering a global perspective on resilience and recovery, Australian host Isaac Marano interviews survivors of domestic violence and trauma from around the world in After Dark: Stories of Hope. With 50 episodes available, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour each, there are many stories to explore and be inspired by.

6. The Survivor Story Podcast

The Survivor Story Podcast, produced by the University of Newcastle, is a documentary-style series exploring the real stories of survivors of church-based institutional child sexual abuse in the Newcastle-Maitland diocese. Each episode lets survivors speak in their own voice about the impacts on their self-worth, mental health, relationships, work and pursuit of justice, ensuring those personal experiences are heard and preserved.

7. Trauma Interrupted with Jan Broberg

Produced by the US-based Jan Broberg Foundation, Trauma Interrupted is a series designed as a safe space for survivors of child sex abuse to share stories, connect and find community. Host Jan Broberg, whose story of being kidnapped and sexually abused as a child was captured in the Netflix documentary Abducted in Plain Sight, talks with others about their healing journeys and trauma experiences.

8. Finding OK – Healing After Sexual Assault and Abuse 

Finding OK – Healing After Sexual Assault and Abuse is an intersectional healing podcast where survivors of various forms of abuse share strength and recovery practices.