E32: #WithYouToo | Finding Her Voice After Epstein: Jess Michaels on Trauma, Language & Healing

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In this episode of Aspire, Katie M. Shipp, Chessy Prout, and student co-host Meghan Boudreau sit down with Jess Michaels, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein, an outspoken advocate, and the founder of the #WithYouToo app.

Jess shares the deeply personal story that brought her from dancer and performer to sexual assault prevention advocate. She opens up about the often-misunderstood freeze response, what it meant for her self-identity, and how reframing that experience helped her reclaim her voice. Jess also explains why understanding trauma responses, and the language we use to describe them, is critical in breaking cycles of shame and isolation for survivors.

The conversation explores the science and power of survivor support, especially in the immediate days after assault, and how tools like the #WithYouToo app aim to empower communities to respond with safety, trust, and care. Along the way, Jess highlights the wisdom and determination of Gen Z, and why their empathy and activism give her hope for real cultural change.

This episode reminds us that healing is not only individual, it’s collective. By centering survivor voices and equipping supporters with the skills to respond, we can build a future where communities are safer, more compassionate, and more resilient.

Follow Jess Michaels on instagram @jessmichaelsspeaks

To learn more about the With You Too app, follow them on instagram @withyoutooapp

Aspire is produced by Ben Hudak Productions. For more information, please visit https://www.benhudak.com/