Targeted: Grooming in Plain Sight
In Episode 2 of Season 2 of Fracture to Flourish, Bryce Butler follows the pattern that so often hides in plain sight: affirmation → dependency → control.
We start in a bedroom, with a late‑night message that sounds like attention, not danger. Then we trace how traffickers use the same vulnerabilities foster youth carry—instability, isolation, unmet needs, and digital access—to turn “connection” into a business model.
You’ll hear from law‑enforcement investigator Ricky Lynn, who describes how trafficking shows up in schools and online spaces. Researcher Dr. Jeanne L. Allert breaks down what trafficking legally is (and why minors in commercial sex are automatically victims under U.S. law). Former U.S. Ambassador‑at‑Large John Richmond explains how trafficking can happen without movement—through phones, payment apps, and live streams. Ashleigh Chapman outlines how online exploitation surged and how platform dynamics make this a high‑reward, low‑risk crime. Dani Pinter explains the “boyfriend model” of grooming, and Rachelle Starr (Scarlet Hope) describes how the “million‑dollar girl” line becomes leverage. We also follow parallel pathways through Lauren and Priscilla, showing how exploitation can begin with romance—or simply with survival.
Content advisory: This episode includes frank discussion of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. Please listen in whatever way feels safest for you.
Resources
National Human Trafficking Hotline (US): Call 1‑888‑373‑7888 or text BEFREE (233733)
RAINN (sexual assault support): rainn.org
National Runaway Safeline: 1‑800‑RUNAWAY (786‑2929) or 1800runaway.org
NAMI (mental health support): nami.org
