Conversations We've Never Had

Trigger Warning

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:39:26 GMT

In this episode of Conversations We’ve Never Had, Candice and Gemma discuss the topic of disclaimers: are trigger warnings protecting survivors or silencing their stories? They explore the tension between keeping people safe and creating space for authentic conversations about child sexual abuse. From navigating social situations to leading professional trainings, they discuss how constant disclaimers can perpetuate the very silence that keeps abuse hidden. This is an important conversation about finding the balance between tenderness and truth, and why some stories can't - and shouldn't - be made palatable.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

**Disclaimer: ** This podcast is a conversation between friends and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice or therapy. If you or someone you know is affected by the issues discussed in this episode, please seek support from trained professionals or organisations specialising in mental health and trauma recovery. In the UK, you can access support and find local organisations via the Rape Crisis Helpline 24/7 0808 5002222. Children and young people can contact Childline 24/7 0800 1111. Internationally you can contact the RAINN Network 24/7 who may be able to signpost you to local services in your area (++) 800.656.4673.

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Vulnerability

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode of Conversations We've Never Had, Candice and Gemma explore vulnerability. They discuss how vulnerability can shift from a place of strength to one of self-questioning, especially in spaces where there is silence as this can mirror the impacts of trauma. Candice and Gemma reflect on the importance of trust - both in ourselves and from others - and how vulnerability can coexist with power in fortitude. They draw parallels between their own experiences and what we ask of the young people and families in need of support, reminding us that vulnerability is a necessary part of doing this work with heart and integrity.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

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Responsibility

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode, of Conversations We’ve Never Had, Candice and Gemma unpack the complex weight of responsibility that survivors of child sexual abuse carry throughout their lives - from the moment of abuse through disclosure, the criminal justice process, and beyond. They explore how responsibility shows up in every area of life: the guilt of "breaking" a family, the burden of holding secrets, the exhaustion of managing everyone else's feelings, and the challenge of navigating support systems. Candice and Gemma discuss how survivors often become caregivers within their own families, taking on roles they should never have to hold.

They talk about the need to reclaim responsibility as something beautiful - the pride of being a parent, the joy of caring for loved ones, and the power of teaching children about responsibility in age-appropriate, empowering ways. They challenge practitioners to shift from feeling responsible for "fixing" survivors to offering hope and truth instead. This episode is a call to place responsibility where it truly belongs: with perpetrators, not survivors.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Participation

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:58:24 GMT

What does it really mean for young survivors of child sexual abuse to participate in their own healing? In this episode of Conversations We've Never Had, Gemma and Candice explore the power - and complexity - of bringing young people together to connect, share, and create change. They discuss the difference between participation, co-production, and leadership, and why connection must come before action. Drawing on their own experiences, they reflect on what they would have needed as teenagers: the courage it takes to walk through the door, the healing that happens in simply being seen by others who understand, and why there's no such thing as being "ready." Gemma and Candice challenge the assumptions that keep young people isolated and make the case for why facilitators with lived experience are essential. Because participation isn't just about making change externally -it's about the radical act of showing up, being present, and discovering you're not alone.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

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Child Self

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell discuss the concept of the "child self" and how trauma exists outside of linear time. They explore recognising when wounded child selves show up, learning to parent ourselves through difficult moments, and breaking negative feedback loops with kindness and wonder. This episode about acknowledging pain while holding onto hope and the possibility of healing.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Endings and Beginnings

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Candice and Gemma reflect on leaving roles they loved at specialist services supporting survivors of child sexual abuse. They explore the complex emotions of endings: the grief of leaving meaningful work, stepping away from teams and families they've grown close to, and choosing growth over comfort. As they embark on a new journey focused on national systems change, they discuss their fears, excitement, and the importance of bringing their whole selves to the work. They reflect on integrating all parts of yourself after trauma and their hope to paint possibility into places that need it most.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving Forward Alongside Trauma

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT

In the first episode of Season 3 of "Conversations We've Never Had," hosts Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell reunite in Barcelona after speaking at a conference to explore what it truly means to move forward alongside trauma. Both survivors of child sexual abuse and passionate advocates for healing, Candice and Gemma share personal reflections on how trauma shapes their daily lives, relationships, and work. They discuss the complexities of living with trauma - not as something to be boxed away, but as a part of themselves that moves with them through time. They reflect on the challenges of confronting pain, the importance of acknowledging all parts of oneself, and the power of gentle movement, humour, and friendship in the healing process. Whether you are a survivor, a loved one, or a practitioner working in the field, this episode offers compassion, insight, and a sense of togetherness. Join Candice and Gemma as they walk, talk, and laugh their way through the realities of healing, reminding us all that we are not alone on this journey.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season One Reflection

Mon, 13 May 2024 11:42:54 GMT

Since finishing the first season, some of our listeners have written in to ask how Candice and Gemma felt about what they had recorded and where they are now. So here are some reflections and conversations they had on their last day of recording. They hope to be back with you again very soon.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fortitude

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 07:45:27 GMT

Gemma Halliwell and Candice Harris consider the concept of fortitude for survivors of child sexual abuse. Through insights from their personal experiences and professional lives, Candice and Gemma explore the possibility for survivors to integrate their experiences into their work, transforming trauma into activism and change. They emphasise the importance of gentleness, creativity, and connection in advocacy, and the power of shared experiences in healing and making societal impacts. The episode also addresses the challenges and complexities involved in speaking out, the importance of solidarity among survivors and allies, and their aspiration to inspire action and hope through ongoing conversations.

Each episode of the podcast focuses on a different stage of grief associated with the experience of being a survivor of child sexual abuse. 'Fortitude' is defined as: inner strength, willpower, courage.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

This podcast has been bought to you and funded by the Green House, a specialist support service for children, young people and families who have experienced sexual abuse. Gemma’s contribution is part of her role at the Green House and a reflection of the organisations commitment to breaking the silence around child sexual abuse, raising survivors' voices, and developing leadership within the creative arts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Love

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:37 GMT

Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell discuss love in the context of survival from child sexual abuse. Love is complex for survivors; in their exploration, Candice and Gemma share deeply personal stories about how their experiences with abuse shaped their understanding and ability to give and receive love, highlighting the challenges in distinguishing affection from manipulation, the struggle to build self-esteem and trust, and the healing power of positive, authentic relationships. The episode also touches on the importance of parental guidance in developing self-worth, the therapeutic role of creativity, and the nuances of building genuine connections as a path toward healing. Candice and Gemma aim to raise the voices of survivors by sharing their experiences and insights on navigating love after abuse, encompassing romantic relationships, self-love, and the transformative journey of healing.

Each episode of the podcast focuses on a different stage of grief associated with the experience of being a survivor of child sexual abuse. 'Love' is defined as an intense feeling of deep affection; feeling deep affection for someone; like or enjoy very much.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stuck

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 04:00:11 GMT

In this episode, Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell focus on the debilitating state of feeling stuck after traumatic experiences, both mentally and physically. Exploring their personal stories and knowing how many survivors share aspects of them, they advocate for a better understanding from practitioners – and loved ones – of how trauma can affect the body as well as the mind and highlight the importance of whole-family support to navigate the healing process. The conversation covers the societal need for a collective healing journey, emphasising open dialogue, connection, and love.

Each episode of the podcast focuses on a different stage of grief associated with the experience of being a survivor of child sexual abuse. 'Stuck' is defined as the inability to move from a particular position or place, or to change a situation.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exposure

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 05:00:58 GMT

Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell explore the idea of exposure and how it impacts survivors of child sexual abuse. Through their discussion, they focus on the aftermath of a disclosure. Highlighting the emotional vulnerability and complexity involved in revealing abuse. Sharing their personal experience and professional insights, Candice and Gemma stress the importance of creating a more empathetic, understanding, and supportive environment for survivors, discussing the social, familial, and systemic barriers to coming forward and the ongoing process of healing and empowerment.

Each episode of the podcast focuses on a different stage of grief associated with the experience of being a survivor of child sexual abuse. 'Exposure' is defined as a state of having no protection against something harmful or revealing a secret, especially something embarrassing or damaging.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Abyss

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 05:00:47 GMT

Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell reflect on the silent moment before a disclosure, the quiet struggle of carrying a traumatic secret and the complete disintegration of self that can occur within a survivor. Confronting the complexity and fallout of revealing the abuse, they discuss the importance of survivor empathy and understanding in society.

Each episode of the podcast focuses on a different stage of grief associated with the experience of being a survivor of child sexual abuse. 'Abyss' is defined as a deep or bottomless chasm, symbolising the profound silence and darkness that survivors experience prior to disclosure of abuse.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Junction

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:00:53 GMT

In their very first episode, hosts Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell introduce themselves and their podcast.

Both survivors of child sexual abuse, their passion behind creating this podcast focuses on the importance of open conversation about this often silenced topic. Through sharing their personal stories alongside expertise gained from working as researchers and practitioners in the field, they place an emphasis on shifting the narrative on child sexual abuse and advocate for a collective response. Reflecting on the fact that the impacts of trauma are lifelong, they also share their hopes for a life of colour alongside the darkness of the past.

Each episode of the podcast focuses on a different stage of grief associated with the experience of being a survivor of child sexual abuse. 'Junction' symbolises the start of their conversation, an important milestone on their journey to inspire change, a point where many paths converge, leading to healing, understanding and hope for survivors.

**Content Warning: ** This episode discusses themes related to childhood sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

This podcast has been bought to you and funded by the Green House a specialist support service for children, young people and families who have experienced sexual abuse. Gemma’s contribution is part of her role at the Green House and a reflection of the organisations commitment to breaking the silence around child sexual abuse, raising survivors' voices, and developing leadership within the creative arts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing Conversations We've Never Had

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 09:39:49 GMT

No boundaries; only shared experiences. Join survivors, friends and leaders in the sector Candice Harris and Gemma Halliwell as they introduce their brand new podcast raising the voices of survivors of child sexual abuse.

Series 1 launches 26th February 2024.

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