Bridettes: Child & Forced Marriage is a groundbreaking podcast documenting the stories of forced marriage survivors worldwide. Over 52 weekly episodes, we’re creating the most comprehensive audio archive of survivor testimony ever assembled—stories that are changing legislation and saving lives.

Hosted by Dr. Tamara MC, PhD, a child marriage survivor who was married at 12 in America. Her advocacy has contributed to 16 states banning child marriage, and she serves on the steering committee of the National Coalition to End Child Marriage.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking courageous voices ready to share their experiences:

• Forced marriage survivors at any stage of their healing journey

• Childhood sexual abuse and trauma survivors whose stories intersect with forced marriage

• Parents and family members affected by forced marriage

• Advocates and activists working to end child marriage

• Legal experts and lawmakers changing legislation

• Therapists and counselors specializing in religious trauma and coercive control

• Researchers and academics studying forced marriage and gender-based violence

• Former members of religious extremist groups or cults

• Healthcare providers who’ve helped victims escape

What to Expect

Interview Format:

• May last up to 1.5 hour conversation via Zoom (video recorded)

• Trauma-informed approach with breaks as needed

• You control what you share—we can pause or stop anytime

• Option to use pseudonym for safety

Topics We May Discuss:

• Your personal story (only what you’re comfortable sharing)

• The system that enabled the forced marriage

• Your escape or survival strategies

• Your advocacy or healing work

• Resources that helped you

• Message for current victims

• Vision for change

Why Share Your Story?

• Reach Survivors: Your story could be the one that helps someone escape

• Influence Policy: Legislators use survivor testimony to pass protective laws

• Build Community: Connect with a global network of survivors and advocates

• Document Truth: Create historical record of this human rights crisis

• Reclaim Your Voice: Transform your experience into power

• Professional Platform: Establish yourself as a speaker/advocate