E29: Healing Your Boo Boo | Jean Ruggiero on Animals, Consent, and Recovery - Advocacy in Action

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In this episode of Aspire, hosts Katie M. Ship and Chessy Prout sit down with Jean Ruggiero, a passionate advocate against sexual violence and an aspiring social worker. Jean opens up about her journey from surviving sexual assault in high school to becoming a powerful voice for other survivors.

Following her trauma, Jean found unexpected comfort and support from her dog, Boo Boo. That bond sparked her interest in the healing power of animals, a passion that continues to shape her work today.

Jean is the author of Healing Your Boo Boo, a children’s book that introduces concepts of body autonomy and consent in an age-appropriate way. She now works with Soul Friends, providing animal-assisted therapy that helps children heal emotionally while learning about boundaries, consent, and self-respect.