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KEEPING KIDS SAFE IN THEDIGITAL AGEIn the digital age, traffickers arebecoming more sophisticated in targeting children. How do we protectthem? Erin Williamson ExplainsHUMAN TRAFFICKINGAWARENESS MONTHHuman Trafficking has becomemore prevalent in the news, yearafter year. Kathryn Marshseparates fact and fiction.THE QUIET REVOLUTION OFMINDFUL PARENTINGAs healing parents, we need to let go ofperfection and embrace the present.Tina Hamilton shares her insights.January 2025InsiderInsiderEMBRACEYOUR BESTSELF IN 2025

AlwaysDear Readers,Hello 2025! With a new year comes an opportunity to set new goals or expand on the personalgrowth we've made in the past year. It’s also a great time to reflect on what worked, and whatwe’d like to change moving forward.It’s been a while since I last contributed to Authentic Insider Magazine (AIM) and so much hashappened, especially over the past four years, since we started AIM. The growing pains werechallenging, but 2024 was a year of transformation, and I’ve come to truly appreciate how farI’ve come. and I’m honored to share that with you.January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and this is a conversation we should behaving year-round. In this issue, Kathryn Marsh, our Prosecutor POV, separates fact fromfiction on the topic. To expand on this, Erin Williamson of Love146, an anti-human traffickingnonprofit, discusses how we can keep our children safe in the digital age.Parenting is tough, especially for healing parents. Tina Hamilton shares her final article forAuthentic Insider, discussing the quiet revolution of mindful parenting.What is it like to be a child of a parent who hasn’t found the support and healing they need?Mila Stankovic of the STAR Network shares her personal story about growing up and having toreparent herself.Envy can be a toxic trait, both for ourselves and others. Trauma Educator Karen Grossexplores the implications of envy and offers guidance on how to navigate these feelings, nomatter which side of envy you’re on.As always, we’ve included our monthly playlist—this time featuring my new year tunes—as wellas my picks for both children's and adult books. Plus, don’t miss Joy Larkin's Twin FlameReading to see what’s in store for 2025.Happy reading!Lorilee BinstockAuthentic Insider | Page 02editor's noteLorilee BinstockEditor in Chief

Authentic Insider | Page 03L o r i l e e B i n s t o c kE d i t o r i n C h i e fC a l i B i n s t o c kC r e a t i v e D i r e c t o rL y n n B i n s t o c kC o p y E d i t o rJ o y L a r k i n T w i n F l a m e R e a d i n g s

K a t h r y n M a r s hHuman Trafficking: Fact & FictionProsecutor POVT i n a H a m i l t o nMindful ParentingParenting POVM i l a S t a n k o v i cR e p a r e n t i n g O u r s e l v e sTAR POVAuthentic Insider | Page 04D r . J a m i e H u y s m a nR e p a r e n t i n g O u r s e l v e sTAR POV

Karen GrossEnvy is a Dangerous State of MindContributorsErin WilliamsonRaising Kids in the Digital AgeAuthentic Insider | Page 05

in this issue2025Embracing your best self in thenew yearReparenting ourselvesJoy's Twin Flame ReadingAuthentic Insider | Page 06The evolution of mindfulparentingHuman Trafficking: Fact & FictionAIM PlaylistRecommended Booksparenting in the digital ageBy: Erin Williamsonenvy is a dangerous stateof mindBy: Karen GrossEmbrace Your Best YouParenting in the Digital AgeMindful Parenting12 2328Authenticity captured

Check out Binstock Media Group's Website traumasurvivorthriver.comGet the latest from A Trauma Survivor Thriver's Podcast, AuthenticInside Magazine, Lorilee Binstock in the media, and the latest news.Visit traumasurvivorthriver.com Authentic Insider | Page 07

This month, we askedwhat goals or hopes youhave for the new year. YOURVOICEMATTERS!“Getting into mydream law school”Olivia Maroney“My goal for 2025 is toeducate as many people as Ican on how to protect kidsfrom child sexual abuse. Toimplement more training andteach kids to tell if they arebeing harmed.”Patrice GriffinAuthentic Insider | Page 08

Cali says,I want to hike with my dogmore this year!This is a photo of my sister,Phoebe, and my father in law’sdog Abby that I snapped on thetrail recently! I love to connect with myfamily and friends while givingmyself and my doggy some goodexercise and outside time. Itgives me perspective on my lifeto hike. It helps me regulate myemotions.I already hike once a week, somy new goal is at least twice ormaybe even three times aweek.This month, we asked what goals or hopes youhave for the new year. YOURVOICEMATTERS!Authentic Insider | Page 09

Be the InsiderS h a r e y o u r p h o t o s , s t o r i e s ,m e m o r i e s o r i d e a s f o r w h a t y o ua p p r e c i a t e a b o u t y o u r s e l f . W h a t d oy o u l o v e a b o u t y o u ? ? We want to hear from YOU! SEE YOURSELFIN NEXTMONTH’SISSUE!Authentic Insider | Page 10

“There will come a timewhen you believeeverything is finished.That will be the beginning.”—Louis L’AmourAuthentic Insider | Page 11

EMBRACING THE JOURNEYWritten by Lorilee Binstock,Editor-in-ChiefAs the New Year begins, I findmyself reflecting on a year that canonly be described astransformational—a year ofprofound growth, both withinmyself and in the relationships Icherish most. The journey to thispoint has not been easy. It hasbeen nearly four years since Ibegan the process of deep healing,addressing wounds from the past,and seeking to rebuild the person Iwas always meant to be. This year,however, felt like the culminationof all that hard work—a year wherehealing transformed into growth. A YEAR OF HEALINGAND GROWTH: Authentic Insider | Page 12

With my husband, I’ve learned to fosterdeeper communication and intimacy,building a partnership rooted inunderstanding and mutual support.Together, we have taken steps to focus onthe activities we love, saying yes toopportunities that bring us closer and allowus to truly enjoy our time together. As ourrelationship has thrived, our children havebecome the beneficiaries of the mutualrespect and connection between us. Myrelationship with my children has flourishedas I’ve become more present, patient, andattuned to their needs. While parentingremains an endless journey of failing,learning, and growing, I’m committed toactively nurturing and building theserelationships every step of the way. One of themostremarkableshifts hasbeen in mypersonalrelationships. Authentic Insider | Page 13

This year, I celebratednearly a decade offriendships with my coregroup of mom friends. This year, I celebrated nearly a decade of friendships with my coregroup of mom friends. These incredible women stood by me when Iwas away at treatment, offering unwavering support not only to mebut also to my children when they needed it most. It can bechallenging to prioritize friendships amidst the endlessresponsibilities of home and work, but this year, I made a consciouseffort to nurture these connections that truly nourish my soul. Thesefriendships are reciprocal and uplifting, and they have been vital notonly for me but also for my children. Seeing the strength and joy inthese relationships gives my children a sense of community outsideof our family and helps them understand the value of building theirown meaningful connections.Authentic Insider | Page 14

Authentic Insider | Page 13An essential part of this growth has been learning tomake time for myself. For so long, I felt the weight ofresponsibilities and the pressure to say yes to everyopportunity, even when it drained me. This year, Ipainstakingly learned to say no—not out ofselfishness, but out of a commitment to my own well-being and growth. I said no to opportunities thatdidn’t align with my values or goals, and I said yes tothose that did. Perhaps some of those opportunitieswill align in the future, but for now, I am focused onwhat I need in the present moment. This intentionalityhas been a game-changer, allowing me to prioritizewhat truly matters and embrace the path that feelsmost authentic.As I look to the New Year, my hope is to build on allI’ve learned. I’m excited to continue growingAuthentic Insider magazine, using it as a platformto share stories of resilience and empowerment.I’m equally passionate about creating more with ATrauma Survivor Thriver’s Podcast, amplifyingvoices and fostering conversations that inspirehealing and hope. I also hope to cultivate evengreater confidence in the work I’m doing—to standtall in my purpose and embrace the impact I’mstriving to make.The journey of growth is never truly complete. Eachyear, each moment, offers new opportunities tolearn, evolve, and expand. As this New Year begins, Icarry with me the lessons of the past year and thedetermination to keep building—within myself,within my relationships, and within the work I am sopassionate about. Here’s to a year of continuedgrowth, creation, and confidence. Cheers to all of usembracing the journey ahead.An essential part ofthis growth has beenlearning to maketime for myself. Authentic Insider | Page 15

Authentic Insider | Page 16

HUMAN TRAFFICKINGBY THE NUMBERSMyths and Facts“Human trafficking is a multi-billion dollar growth industrybecause, unlike drugs, which are gone as soon as they are used,humans can be recycled. Because they can continue to beexploited, they’re a better investment for traffickers.” Terry CoonanBy Kathryn Marsh, Prosecutor POVAuthentic Insider | Page 17

Myth: Human trafficking, while terrible,only impacts a small part of the world.Fact: Approximately 27 million peopleworldwide are trafficked. In 2021, over10,000 trafficking incidents were reportedin the United States, involving over 16,000individual victims.HUMAN TRAFFICKING BY THE NUMBERSMyths and FactsMyth: Human trafficking is only about sextraffickingFact: The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of2000 defines two main categories oftrafficking: sex trafficking and labortrafficking.Sex trafficking is defined as “therecruitment, harboring, transportation,provision, or obtaining of a person for acommercial sex act, induced by force,fraud, or coercion, or in which the personinduced to perform such an act has notattained 18 years of age.”The most common forms of sex traffickinginclude: exploitation through prostitution,child sexual exploitation, and sexualexploitation on the internet. Sex traffickingaccounts for approximately 36% of humantrafficking globally.Labor trafficking is defined as “therecruitment, harboring, transportation,provision, or obtaining of a person for labor orservices, through the use of fraud or coercionfor the purpose of subjection to involuntaryservitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery.”Common examples of labor trafficking inthe United States include domestic work,forced child labor, and agriculture oraquaculture. Labor trafficking accounts forapproximately 42% of human traffickingglobally.The remaining 12% of human traffickingvictims represent forced criminality andmixed forms of exploitation.Myth: Human trafficking involvestransporting victims across state lines orforeign borders.Fact: Victims are most often traffickedwithin their own country of origin. In theAmericas, more than 70% of traffickingvictims are domestically trafficked.Fact: Within the United States, the majorityof traffickers are U.S. citizens. A statisticalbreakdown of criminal defendants at thefederal level shows:95% are U.S. citizens91% are male58% are white71% had no prior criminal convictions.Authentic Insider | Page 18

HUMAN TRAFFICKING BY THE NUMBERSMyths and FactsMyth: Only women and girls aretrafficked.Fact: Women and girls account for 61% ofall human trafficking victims globally.60% of girls are victimized throughsexual exploitation,21% through forced labor,19% through other means such ascriminality, forced marriage, andbegging.Fact: The number of detected girl victimsin North America doubled between 2019and 2022, with the increase largelyattributed to sexual exploitation.Fact: The number of boy victims oftrafficking has increased by 24%. Amongidentified boy victims:45% are trafficked for forced labor,47% are exploited through forcedcriminality and begging.Europol has noted a significant increasein drug cartels trafficking minors to actas spotters, distribute drugs, or carryout violent attacks.Myth: Trafficking is primarily a problemfor developing nations.Fact: Trafficking occurs on nearly everycontinent. The UN collects data on humantrafficking from 155 countries. Traffickerstarget adults and children they believe tobe in vulnerable situations, which canoccur in any country. Vulnerabilitiesinclude situations of conflict, naturaldisasters, challenging home life, addiction,poverty, and oppression.Fact: As poverty, conflicts, and naturaldisasters continue to rise, so does the rateof human trafficking. The UNODC GlobalHuman Trafficking Report released onDecember 11, 2024, found a 25% increase inthe total number of trafficking victimsdetected globally. This includes:A 47% increase in forced labor,A 31% increase in child victims.Children overall account for 38% of humantrafficking victims.Myth: Traffickers target people theydon’t know; And victims of traffickingare kidnapped or held against their will.Fact: Many victims are trafficked by afamily member, romantic partner, or friend.Victims may be allowed to leave theirhome, attend school, work, or participate inother activities. Despite having a“perceived out,” they often remain intrafficking situations due to manipulation,coercion, shame, fear, immigration status,language barriers, or lack of resources.Some victims don’t even realize they arebeing trafficked.Myth: Trafficking always involves aviolent crime.Fact: Trafficking can occur through force,fraud, or coercion.Fact: Digital tools are now the mostprevalent weapons in a trafficker’s arsenal.These tools have dramatically increasedthe reach, scale, and speed of trafficking.Traffickers often use dating apps andonline ads to recruit and exploit victims.They also use encrypted apps to sell illicitsexual content and avoid detection.Authentic Insider | Page 19

Myth: Human trafficking should only beconsidered a criminal issue.Fact: While many regions are seeingincreased trafficking convictions, NorthAmerica recently recorded a 26% decreasein human trafficking convictions, despiteno corresponding decrease in traffickingincidents. (Note: This statistic does notdistinguish between Canada, the U.S., andMexico).Fact: 70% of convicted traffickers areconvicted of sex trafficking or sexualexploitation, while only 17% of criminalconvictions are for forced labor, despitelabor trafficking accounting for 42% of allhuman trafficking.Fact: Criminal investigation andprosecution alone will not solve humantrafficking. It must also be treated as ahuman rights violation, an economic issue,and an education issue.HUMAN TRAFFICKING BY THE NUMBERSMyths and FactsMore and more advocates and lawenforcement are seeing traffickers useonline platforms to identify and lurevictims. Social media, websites, gamingplatforms, and online ads are commonmethods used by traffickers to identifyvulnerabilities and groom potentialvictims.For example, an individual may respond toan online job advertisement, and oncethey meet the trafficker, they may bethreatened with harm to themselves ortheir loved ones unless they comply withforced labor. Traffickers may also seize thevictim’s identifying documents and usecoercion to keep them working.In sex trafficking, traffickers may exploitonline relationships through “catfishing”—creating fake romantic relationships, thenusing explicit photos to extort money,additional photos, or sex acts.More and moreadvocates andlaw enforcementare seeingtraffickers useonline platformsto identify andlure victims. Authentic Insider | Page 20

Myth: There is nothing I can do to stop orprevent traffickingFact: Everyone can educate themselves onboth sex and labor trafficking issues, onceeducated help spread the word andresources available. Polaris created anonline platform designed for farm workers,to be able to share their stories andinformation on shady recruitment andemployment processes, this platform canbe shared in agriculture communities.HUMAN TRAFFICKING BY THE NUMBERSMyths and FactsSeveral companies have developedonline tools to help the public identifytrafficking situations and make in-timereports that have been successful inrescuing victims. Some examples are: TraffickCam – this app allows users toupload photos of hotel rooms you stay inwhile you travel, this allows lawenforcement to match photographs ofvictims posed in hotel rooms to real lifelocations; STOP App – this app allows usersanywhere in the world to report suspicioushuman trafficking activity anonymously;Redlight Traffick allows users to reportsuspicious activity related to humantrafficking in the United States; Lifeboat ACT Game app helps users learnhow to identify trafficking. Consumers can also use the apps - Sweat & Toil and Good on You to helpincrease human trafficking awareness andmake informed buying choice regardingforced or child labor.Authentic Insider | Page 21

“Failure is the opportunityto begin again moreintelligently.” —Henry Ford“Failure is the opportunityto begin again moreintelligently.” —Henry FordAuthentic Insider | Page 22

Authentic Insider | Page 30Human Trafficking:Raising Generation Alphain the Digital AgeRaising Generation Alpha, children born from2010 onward, is challenging for a multitude ofreasons, not the least of which is the fact thatthey are the first generation to grow upimmersed in technology. As parents, many of usstruggle with questions about how much accessour children should have to technology, at whatages, and on what devices.As the Chief Program and Strategy Officer atLove146, an organization that works withchildren who have experienced traffickingvictimization, and a mom of an eight and twelveyear old, I understand how challenging thesedecisions can be. Today’s technology is movingfaster, getting smarter, and blurring the linesbetween our physical and digital lives. For all ofthe benefits of technology - video calls withgrandparents, quick access to information,educational games - there are real risks - onlinepredators, access to illicit materials, harmfulalgorithms.By: Erin Williamson, Chief Programs and Strategies Officer at Love146After 20 years working in the field of childsexual abuse and exploitation, I understandthese risks, their potential harm, and the desireto bubblewrap our children until they are fullyformed adults. What I have also seen is thatgood judgment and resilience in children andyoung adults is built overtime, by testingboundaries, making mistakes, and experiencingthe consequences that help youth learn andgrow. This is not to say that we offer ourchildren unlimited and unmonitored access totechnology. We wouldn’t do that the way wewouldn’t drop them off alone in Time Squareand tell them we will be back in an hour. But asour children grow we must keep in mind thatpart of our job is to prepare them to eventuallynavigate Time Square, or rather the onlineworld that exists today and in the future.Authentic Insider | Page 23

Authentic Insider | Page 24So how do you introduce your child totechnology? Well, it’s kind of like teachingthem how to cross the street. At first you holdtheir hand, teach them to look both ways, andtalk to them about the dangers of cars. Thegoal, though, is that by the time they areready to leave your home - or really beforethen - they know how to cross the street ontheir own, and not just side streets but busystreets with lots of cars. The reality is that intoday’s digital age our children have to knowhow to successfully navigate technology ontheir own in order to live in the world. Theonly way they are going to learn how to dothis is through gradual increased exposureand guidance.As we expose our children to technology wecan try and buffer the dangers but we cannotremove them completely, just like we cannotremove all of the cars on the road. Every yearpeople are killed by cars. We don’t let thisknowledge keep us from teaching our childrenhow to cross streets and eventually allowingthem to cross streets on their own. The sameis true for technology. There will always bepredators, illicit materials, and harmfulalgorithms. It is our responsibility to help ourchildren learn how to use technology in an ageappropriate and safe manner and what to do ifthey find themselves in a potentiallydangerous situation.Surprisingly, some of the most important steps we,as parents, can take to keep our kids safe onlinehave nothing at all to do with technology.Establishing ourselves as a safe base for our child iscritically important to their long-term emotional wellbeing.Being a safe base means letting your child knowthat you believe in them and trust them as theyexplore the world and that you are someone theycan always return to for reassurance or whensomething goes wrong. We do this on playgroundswhen our children go off to explore and make newfriends but return when they scrape their knee orget in a disagreement.Another way we can reinforce ourselves as a safebase is to create family norms that facilitate regularand open communication. In our family, we have therule that our family doesn’t keep secrets. Over theyears, we have repeated this mantra and normalizedit within our family dynamics. In addition to teachingour children that we expect them to be open andhonest with us and come to us when they are introuble, this norm serves as a natural deterrent forpotential predators. Predators often ask a child ifthey know how to keep a secret. If a child respondsthat their family doesn’t keep secrets that is a clearmessage to a predator that this child has aninvolved family and would likely tell someone ifthey were harmed.

As our children grow older, we need to reinforce ourfamily norms and the fact that we remain a safebase by having conversations with them about theirlives in an open and non-judgmental manner. Again,this does not mean that we let our children dowhatever they want or agree with all of theirdecisions but rather that we discuss their choiceswith them and reflect back the information we thinkwill help them make the best decisions as theymove forward.This is especially important (and difficult) when theycome to us after something goes wrong, especiallyif they or you believe that they contributed to whathappened. As parents, we have to recognize that noone is perfect and part of childhood, especiallyadolescents, is pushing limits and even breakingrules; your family norms must account for this.Therefore, in addition to telling your child what yourexpectations are, it is also important to let themknow that you realize that part of growing upmeans that there might be times that they pushlimits and even break rules. Talk to them, in advance, about how the rules aremeant to keep them safe so if they ever do break arule and find themselves in a dangerous situationthe most important thing is their safety. Explain thatyou want them to know that they can always cometo you for help. Again, this is a conversation thatmust happen repeatedly over the years so that it isreinforced as your child grows. One of the ways wecan reinforce this message is to tell our childrenwhen we mess up, to apologize to them when wemake mistakes, and to show them that we can getthrough hard times together as a family.If children know that when things go wrong theycan come to you, and you won’t freak out – that youwill listen to them and work with them to solveproblems, they are much more likely to sharehonestly about what is happening in their lives. Thehard but critical part is that as parents, when theydo come to us we have to put aside the fact thatthey broke a rule or made a bad decision and dealwith that later. In that moment, we have to praisethem for seeking help and focus on safety becausethe truth is had they not sought help theconsequences could have gotten worse. Predators often target children who do not havesupportive adult relationships. So, let your childknow that you’re on their team and that they canrely on you. Regularly reassure your children thatnothing they tell you will ever make you love themany less.To get more practical tip about parenting in thedigital age, sign up for Love146’s parentingnewsletter at https://love146.org/caregivers/Authentic Insider | Page 25

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Authentic Insider | Page 27“Sometimes we can only findour true direction when we letthe wind of change carry us.” —Mimi Novic

Authentic Insider | Page 28Written by Tina Hamilton, Parenting POV Founder if Intuitive SolutionsAs we step into a new year, many of us feel thefamiliar pressure to transform overnight—tobecome a perfect version of ourselves, and byextension, perfect parents. But what if the mostrevolutionary act this January isn't aboutcreating a flawless family facade, but aboutembracing our authentic selves and teachingour children to do the same?The start of a new year often comes loadedwith expectations. Pinterest-worthy familyplanners, meticulously crafted resolution lists,and social media feeds showcasing seeminglyflawless family moments can make us feel likewe're falling short. But true connection doesn'tlive in perfection—it breathes in authenticity.This year, consider a different approach tofamily growth. Instead of rigid resolutions,create flexible intentions that honor whereyour family is right now. Maybe that means: Family Reflection Rituals: Set aside time totalk about the past year. What brought joy?What challenged you? What did you learn?Make this a gentle conversation, not aninterrogation. Intention Setting Together: Help childrenunderstand goal-setting not as a list ofachievements, but as a journey of personalgrowth. Ask them what they'd like to explore orlearn this year—without judgment orimmediate correction. Embrace Imperfection: Show your childrenthat mistakes are opportunities, not failures.Share your own moments of learning,vulnerability, and growth.The pressure to parent "perfectly" issuffocating. We're bombarded with expertadvice, conflicting parenting philosophies, andconstant comparison. But children don't needperfect parents. They need present, authenticparents who are willing to grow alongsidethem.This doesn't mean abandoning all structure orexpectations. Instead, it's about creating spacefor genuine connection. Mindful parenting isn't about doingeverything right. It's about being present,intentional, and real.As we step into a new year, many of us feel thefamiliar pressure to transform overnight—tobecome a perfect version of ourselves, and byextension, perfect parents. But what if the mostrevolutionary act this January isn't aboutcreating a flawless family facade, but aboutembracing our authentic selves and teachingour children to do the same?The start of a new year often comes loadedwith expectations. Pinterest-worthy familyplanners, meticulously crafted resolution lists,and social media feeds showcasing seeminglyflawless family moments can make us feel likewe're falling short. But true connection doesn'tlive in perfection—it breathes in authenticity.

Authentic Insider | Page 29Some practical ways to do this:Create low-pressure family traditions thatfeel meaningful to everyoneListen more than you speakValidate emotions, even (especially) whenthey're messyShow your children that their worth isn'ttied to achievementsThe most powerful lessons we teach aren'tfound in carefully orchestrated moments, butin our daily, unscripted interactions. When weshow our children that it's okay to beimperfect, to try and sometimes fail, to adjustand restart—we're giving them a profound gift.This January, instead of creating a detailedroadmap for the year, create space fordiscovery. Be curious about your family'sjourney. Ask open-ended questions. Createrituals that feel genuine, not performative.Celebrate small moments of connection.Parenting is not about creating a perfect childor a perfect family. It's about walking together,learning together, growing together. Somedays will feel magical. Others will feeloverwhelming. Both are equally valuable.As we enter this new year, give yourselfpermission to parent with less pressure andmore presence. Your children don't need aperfect parent—they need you, exactly as youare.If you're seeking a supportive community tohelp you navigate the complexities of mindfulparenting and personal growth, I invite you tojoin SoulCircle, my meditation membership.Together, we'll explore practices that help youstay grounded, compassionate, and present—creating space to breathe, reflect, and connectwith your authentic parenting journey.Through guided meditations, communitysupport, and intentional practices, you'lldiscover tools to parent from a place ofgenuine connection, not perfectionism. Let'stransform how we show up for ourselves andour families, one mindful moment at a time.As we step into a new year,many of us feel the familiarpressure to transformovernight—to become a perfectversion of ourselves, and byextension, perfect parents.

I N T U I T I V E SOULU T I O N SA W A K E N Y O U R I N N E R W I S D O Mmeditation membershipSoulCircleMy meditations are atransformative journey, not juststillness. Immerse yourself in afull-body, somatic experiencethat explores thought patternsand unlocks your inner wisdom. Discover meditation reimagined.Unlock your inner wisdom with mymeditation library. Designed toreconnect you with your true self,these guided sessions help younavigate life's challenges with grace. Start your free week today!JOIN NOWlaunchtinahamiltonI N T U I T I V E G U I D E + M E N T O RW O U N D S T O WISDOMF I N D I N G P E A C E I N T H E S H A D O W Slisten now

“No matter howhard the past,you can alwaysbegin again.” —BuddhaAuthentic Insider | Page 31

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Authentic Insider | Page 33Have you ever felt like you were givingeverything - your time, your heart, yourenergy - only to feel like it was neverenough? Like no matter how hard youtried, something was always missing? I know that feeling all too well. For years, Iquestioned myself, wondering if my love was themissing piece. I tiptoed around my own worth,walking on eggshells, afraid to face the truth.As a mother, these questions cut even deeper.We’re taught to nurture, to sacrifice, to giveunconditionally. But what happens when the loveyou give isn’t returned in a healthy way? Whenyour efforts seem to make things worse instead ofbetter? That was my reality until I realized somethingneeded to change. It was in those moments of painand self-discovery that I met Dr. Jamie Huysman(Founder and the Executive Director of STARNetwork), an incredible person who helped me seea new path forward.Together, we founded STAR Network - acommunity for those who’ve walked similar paths,a place where we can heal, grow, and support oneanother. Through STAR Network, I learned thatlove starts with yourself. If you’ve ever felttrapped in a cycle of giving without receiving,know that you’re not alone.Let’s turn pain into purpose and find strength inconnection. Together.My Journey: A Child of Unspoken PainI grew up with a mother who was difficult to trulyknow. She was 44 when she had me, an age thatwas considered remarkable in our country at thetime, and in many ways, she was a quiet marvel.But there was so much of her life I never knew, awhole world before I came along that remained amystery.We didn’t share much physical time together, and Ioften saw her through the eyes of a childdesperate for more connection, more openness.She was a woman defined by her fears. Fear ofheights, fear of driving, fear of trusting anyonecompletely.Her life seemed to be consumed by a devotion tomy father - a devotion that bordered onobsession. It felt as though her world was builtaround holding onto him, terrified of losing him,and yet I never truly understood why.As a child, I wondered why she couldn’t just let goof her fears and enjoy life. But now, as a mothermyself, I see things so differently.— Milena Stankovic, Co-Founder of the STAR Network & Dr. Jamie Huysman, Founder andExecutive Director of STAR Network

Authentic Insider | Page 34A Hidden Life Behind the VeilWhat I didn’t know then was that mymother was once a woman of incrediblestrength, independence, and courage.She had lived a life that seemedimpossible to reconcile with the anxious,self-doubting figure I knew. Beforebecoming my mother, she had been adaughter of military officials.My grandfather was a national hero, andmy grandmother - my mother’s mother -had been a double agent during the war,risking her life to help Jewish familiesescape Nazi-occupied Rome.A book was written about her bravery, yetI never learned any of this until yearsafter my mother had passed.My mother had traveled the world -London, Cairo, Moscow, Portorož - living alife full of adventure, speaking fourlanguages fluently.And yet, in our shared language, we neverfully understood each other. She hadonce been fearless, riding motorcyclesand embracing life with a boldness I couldnever have imagined.But by the time I came into her life, thatboldness had been replaced by caution,by a quiet terror.What happened to her? Why didn’t sheshare her past with me? Why didn’t she tellme about the woman she had once been?So many whys without an answer…The Mother I Knew as a teenager, I beganto see flashes of the woman she had been -sharp, intelligent, and intuitive.She was a lawyer, turning down aprestigious job at 27 to stay with my father,even as he continued to hurt her.She was a woman who had once been filledwith dreams, and yet she stayed in a toxic,painful relationship because, somehow,love had become synonymous withsacrifice.Looking back, I see that it wasn’t weaknessthat kept her in that relationship, but acomplicated, tragic form of strength - achoice to hold the family together at thecost of her own peace.She never allowed herself the space toheal, and in that, I see the echo of my ownstruggles.

Authentic Insider | Page 35The Cycle of Hurt: Breaking the Bonds ofTrauma When Dr. Jamie Huysman, a renowned expert intrauma recovery and our founder says “hurtpeople hurt people,” it resonates deeply withme.It’s a stark truth that explains so much of thecycle my mother and I were both trapped in. Weboth carried wounds from the past - wounds wedidn’t fully understand.My mother, in her own way, tried to protect me,but the trauma bonds that existed in our familyenvironment were too strong to break withoutintervention. I now realize that we both lived ina state of constant survival, never truly allowingourselves to heal.As a child, I couldn’t have known that I wouldone day become the one to break that cycle.But as a mother myself, I understand theimportance of re-parenting, not just for mychildren, but for myself.Re-parenting is the act of healing thosewounded parts of you that were neglected orhurt as a child. It’s about rewriting the narrativethat was passed down to you, and for me, thatmeant stepping away from the trauma bondsthat had shaped my relationships.I had to learn to re-parent myself - to givemyself the love, care, and nurturing I neverreceived as a child.Breaking free from these patterns isn’t easy. Itrequires facing the truth of the trauma, thehurt, and the pain.It’s about understanding that we don’t have tocontinue the cycle of pain. We can choosedifferently.As I’ve learned, breaking trauma bonds isn’tjust about leaving a relationship - it’s abouthealing the parts of ourselves that were oncebroken.The Power of Support Groups: HealingTogetherLike I said, STAR Network was born from theunderstanding that healing doesn’t happen inisolation. It happens in the community. Ithappens when people come together, sharetheir stories, and support one another in waysthat are transformative.The pain we carry from toxic, abusiverelationships can make us feel so alone, but thetruth is, we don’t have to walk this path byourselves. STAR Network’s free virtual support groupsTAR Anon™ for those struggling with toxicabuse, narcissistic abuse, trauma, and CPTSDare designed to provide a safe space forpeople to heal.These groups are a lifeline for those who havebeen in toxic relationships and need a place toprocess, to share, and to find a sense ofbelonging.It’s in these spaces that we begin to rebuildourselves, piece by piece, as we move from thedarkness of isolation into the light ofconnection and healing.In our support groups, you’ll find people whotruly understand your pain, because they’velived it too. You’ll find guidance, tools forhealing, and most importantly, you’ll find hope.

Authentic Insider | Page 36These groups are not just about surviving - they’reabout thriving, about breaking the chains ofthe past and creating a future where you canfinally live as your true, healed self.Reclaiming My PowerNow, as a mother myself, I understand thestrength required to make those hard choices. Inow see the complexities of my own mother’sdecisions - her sacrifices, her fears, and thestrength she showed by simply surviving.I see the echoes of her in my own life, as I toograpple with the weight of motherhood and theresponsibilities it brings.But I also see the strength that comes fromhealing and breaking the cycles that have plaguedus for generations.Breaking free from toxic relationships isn’t easy - itrequires support, it requires guidance, and itrequires the willingness to face the truth of yourworth.For me, it took years to understand that I deservedmore. But with the right support, healthypeople, and the right tools, I found my way out.And now, I carry the title of STAR with pride:Survivor of a Toxic Abusive Relationship. It’snot just a title; it’s a testament to the strength thatlies within every person who dares to breakfree from the chains of abuse and reclaim theirlife.STAR Network: Why Do We Do What We Do?At STAR Network, we believe that no one shouldever feel alone in their struggles. We are hereto support those who have lived through toxic,abusive relationships and provide a safe spacefor healing. We know that these relationships don’tjust affect the individuals involved—theyaffect entire families, especially children. As amother, I understand how crucial it is to breakthese cycles not just for yourself, but for yourchildren as well. They deserve to see whathealthy, empowered love looks like. They deserveto see you reclaim your worth.So, if you’ve ever wondered why you’re still in thesame toxic patterns, why your relationshipsfeel like you’re walking on eggshells, or why youcan’t seem to break free—know this: you arenot the problem. You are worthy of love, respect,and peace. The journey to healing is long anddifficult, but with support, guidance, and thecourage to take that first step, you too can riseabove the pain and become a STAR.This is why STAR Network exists—to help you rise,to help you heal, and to help you understand thatyou are never alone in your journey. Together, webreak the cycles and move from pain intostrength. Together, we shine.— Milena Stankovic, Co-Founder of the STARNetwork & Dr. Jamie Huysman, Founder andExecutive Director of STAR Network

Through TAR Anon, I was able todig deep into my untreatedCPTSD and understand moreabout my addictions to opioidsand other drugs. Through TAR Anon, I gainedvaluable insights into myalcohol addiction. Thank you somuch for offering theseamazing meetings!TAR Anon was key in freeing mefrom narcissistic abuse.ToxicAbusive Relationships candestroy you! But TAR Anonhelped me break free!ITAI S.ROB W. ANNA L.GABRIELE Y.TAR Anon provided a safe andanonymous space that wasessential in my recovery. Ithelped me realize my addictionissues stemmed fromchildhood.Powered by:taranon.org contact@tarnetwork.orgFree TAR Anon MeetingsWhy Is TAR Anon™ for you?Our STAR LIGHTS Will Tell You Why RelationshipsParental AlienationToxic FamiliesToxic Worksites

“If you want somethingyou’ve never had, youmust be willing to dosomething you’venever done.” —Thomas JeffersonAuthentic Insider | Page 40

Authentic Insider | Page 41I have been exposed to envious people,starting with my biological mother andcontinuing to the present moment with mynext-door neighbor. There have been manyenvious individuals along the way…However, it is only recently that I have trulyunpacked the meaning and consequences ofenvy for those exposed to it. And yes, here’sthe hard part for me (and not necessarily forothers): I have, and still sometimes do, turnother people’s envy into acquiescence on mypart to all their demands. These demands aredesigned to mitigate their bad behavior andkeep the peace and quiet—at my own expense.Yup.Ponder that flip: I take the envy of others andchange my own behavior, rather than callingout their destructive actions. In a workcontext, that might be acceptable; in apersonal context, however, it is unacceptableto be denigrated by envious individuals. Yet…The academic literature on envy is abundantand clear: name the emotion the enviousperson is expressing, set real boundaries, andengage legal remedies as needed. Would that Ihad started with step one: naming. Would thatI had known this literature. Would that I hadacted a year ago… well, two years ago.Boundaries could have and would have beenset. Legal recourse could have taken a backseat to changed behavior.The omnipresence and presence of envy cameto my attention when a reader of my recentpost—where I mentioned my neighbor snarkilyquestioning my clothing purchase (with theacid, acerbic line: “And you need anotheroutfit?”)—said this to me: “Wow, is she envious.I’m sure this isn’t the first time her behaviorreflects envy.”I was struck. I consider myself insightful, butboy, oh boy (an odd expression), did I missnaming and addressing the repeated display ofenvy from my neighbor. I simply didn’t registerwhat she was doing.And to be sure, there were other examples, inaddition to the clothing snark. Consider thissampling: her commenting on the number ofpackages delivered to my home; her followingmy visitors around the parking lot (not kidding);her jumping—literally or figuratively—intoconversations I’m having with my wonderful,decent, friendly neighbors; her being angry atnot being invited to lunch at a Japaneserestaurant (even though she doesn’t eat rawfish); and her dismissive comment about apiece of my art being accepted into a regionaljuried show, calling it “cute.” How demeaning.And while there are many things one can saypositively or negatively about my art, “cute”isn’t among the suitable vocabulary. Howdemeaning. Envy rages.

Authentic Insider | Page 42Here’s the artwork deemed “cute” and titledNature’s Arrow. It is an unadulterated, non-AI-enhanced photo. (I create and appreciate bothAI-generated and non-AI photos and respectboth forms.)I am still trying to process the implications ofhow a person’s envy plays out in the life of theother. I haven’t figured it all out yet. I’m trying,and on certain topics, I process slowly. I can’tquite wrap my head around mean behavior fromothers.But this I know: my neighbor is oblivious to bothher envy and its implications. She’s unable toself-reflect, exhibiting what her daughters call"verbal diarrhea"—and I’d add, in action as well.I’m wondering: Is there Imodium for badbehavior? If so, I’ll buy large quantities if you tellme where to purchase it. I know someone whoneeds it. For the first time, I’ve named the feelingof envy from another person that, whenexpressed, can be nasty, mean, and rude. Envy,like that expressed by my neighbor, producesbehaviors that have legal implications and realconsequences.Nature’s Arrow by Karen Gross

“Stop being afraid ofwhat could gowrong, and startbeing excited aboutwhat could go right.”—Tony RobbinsAuthentic Insider | Page 43

As the mental health crisis reaches devastating levels post pandemic, more and more people arelooking for ways to manage their mental health. How does a childhood sexual abuse survivor, a veteran struggling with PTSD and an athletesuffering from Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), trauma, and addiction find effective healing andrelief? Psychedelics. A treatment that was studied and used as effective treatment for mental health disorders until itwas banned and categorized as a schedule I drug in the 1970s, psychedelics have providedmuch needed relief for thousands of people suffering from trauma and mental health issues.Regardless of the laws banning these treatments, the people who understood the power of thesemedicines feel more empowered to find ways to help others find healing through them. On thefollowing page click on the graphic to view the Proof of Concept for "Our Own PersonalRealities." An Upcoming Documentary about the Fight toBring Psychedelic Healing Back into the LightAuthentic Insider | Page 44

If you are interested in donating orinvesting in this film, please emaillorilee@binstockmediagroup.comAuthentic Insider | Page 45

“The beginning is the mostimportant part of the work.”—Plato

"Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)" by Kelly Clarkson"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor"Wake Me Up" by Avicii"I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor"Believer" by Imagine Dragons"Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles““Beautiful Day” by U2"Brand New Day" by Sting”A New Day Has Come" by Celine Dion"Start Me Up" by The Rolling Stones"New Year's Day" by U2"light on” by Maggie rogers"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield"Memories" by Maroon 5"Man in the Mirror" by Michael JacksonTHE NEW YEAR PLAYLISTAs the clock resets and a new chapterbegins, let this playlist set the tone for anincredible year ahead. With upliftingbeats and empowering lyrics, these songsare your ultimate soundtrack to embracefresh starts, chase your dreams, andconquer 2025. Turn up the volume, leavelast year behind, and let these tunesinspire you to step into the new year withconfidence, optimism, and unshakabledetermination. It’s time to own yourjourney—your best year yet starts now!Songs to Start 2025 Songs to Start 2025 MUSICMUSICMUSICMUSIC

Authentic Insider | Page 48Pediatric nurses have the responsibility of caring for the smallest ofpatients, but it is their greatest honor to be their patients' friend.Through the good days and bad, your nurse will keep you safe, andcomfort you when you are sad. They will walk you through scary things,holding your hand when something stings. It won’t always be easy, andnot often enough fun, but they will cheer you on until your hospitalstay is done. Your nurse and your friend, they both will be until the veryend.*I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.This affectionate, deeply soothing story exemplifies how to comfort someonewho is hurting. Elba carries the black block of grief and sadness wherevershe goes--until Norris comes along and helps her to let go of the block andenjoy life again. A wonderful gift for any occasion, perfect for fans of TheRabbit Listened.. When Ayden’s world gets noisy and unpredictable, she likes to imagine asky that brings her comfort and order. Readers are invited to see theworld through Ayden’s eyes as she uses art to enhance communication,regulate her emotions, and express her feelings.

In this book you will read about how to overcome pain to be successful on thejourney called life. Narcissist abuse coach and mentor. Joy Larkin has 15chapters of informative, real life stories, genuine advice, and easy self helptools which help to Identify what your pain is so you can use it to fuel thesuccess you want to have in your life. You will learn to reclaim a sense of self,identity/self worth, self value so that you can create goals, vision, and learnyour life purpose to make yourself happy and successful. You will alsounderstand the harsh truth about what it takes to be successful. The ups anddown. But learning about how God will get you through the hard times whenyou want to quit and give up.We all fall into conditioned habits and patterns - products of our past - thatlead to cycles of stuckness, pain, and self-destruction. But as Dr. Nicoleshares, we also have the innate ability to awaken to and change thebehaviours that no longer serve us, allowing us to step into the highestversions of ourselves. By objectively and compassionately observing thephysical, mental, and emotional patterns that fill our days and create ourcurrent selves, we can more clearly see what we do not wish to carry into thefuture.If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with where you are, theproblem isn't you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Twosimple words—Let Them—will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama,and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manageeverything and everyone around you. The Let Them Theory puts the powerto create a life you love back in your hands—and this book will show youexactly how to do it.*I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.Authentic Insider | Page 49Mental Health Books (for adults)

TI sense that someone might feel left out or even rejected. However, it seems as though thisperson is now reconsidering something they previously dismissed.It looks like many people could be going through an awakening, seeking change in their lives.Since it's a new year, change feels more accessible, even if it can be uncomfortable at times.In January, a particular person could be opening up and expressing their feelings—this could beyou or someone else. On the other hand, most people only want good, genuine people aroundthem—those with the best intentions.So, if you're feeling that someone isn’t good for you, it’s likely that you’ll be cutting them outof your life. For some, this could also be a time to give back to your community or to helpothers in a meaningful way.I see a lot of healing taking place. Self-care and self-improvement will benefit many. Rightnow, it seems that all you truly want is peace of mind and happiness. Anything that disruptsthat, particularly if it brings drama, will likely be rejected as you move into the new year.I’m also picking up that someone is speaking their truth and is ready to make something known.A cycle is coming to an end for many of you, while a new beginning is unfolding for others.Overall, I feel like January will be a positive month. A lot of people are doing introspection,evaluating the people, places, and things in their lives.It’s a good month to stay positive and focused, and everything will fall into place in due time.About JoyAbout JoyJoy is a Narcissistic AbuseSurvivor who has made it herlife's work to help others throughlife coaching. She is also a healer,earth angel and psychic medium.If you would like coachingservices from Joy and/or getyour own personal reading,please scan the barcode belowwith your smartphone camera.READINGSPersonalINFOCoachingAuthentic Insider | Page 44