Everyone deserves a safe night out — whether at a bar, club, concert, or any space where people gather to relax, unwind, and have fun. Unfortunately, that is not the reality for many. Abusers often exploit nightlife environments where people are meeting new friends, enjoying drinks, and letting their guard down, using these situations to harass, manipulate, or commit acts of violence — including drug-facilitated sexual assault.
In this episode, host Olivia Oropeza speaks with experts from the hospitality industry, victim services, and forensic nursing to discuss how we can better recognize, prevent, and respond to violence in nightlife settings. Tune in to learn how we can work together to create safer experiences in our local nightlife communities.
Episode 3 Segment 1: Michael Coon, General Manager in Hospitality
Michael Coon is a General Manager with 27 years in the hospitality industry – managing and serving in some of Orlando’s top venues. In this segment, Michael shares his wisdom on how to keep staff and patrons safe.
Episode 3 Segment 2: Dr. Laura Valle, Ph.D., UCF Director of Victim Services
Young adults in college face an elevated risk of assault in nightlife environments, making prevention efforts and reliable support systems critically important. Dr. Laura Valle, Ph.D., from UCF Victim Services discusses the unique challenges college students encounter and how Victim Services staff work to ensure students feel safe, supported, and empowered.
Episode 3 Segment 3: Mary Joder, SANE, Forensic Nurse Examiner, Volusia County
As a Forensic Nurse Examiner, Mary Joder provides specialized medical care and forensic evidence collection for individuals who have experienced sexual violence, including cases involving drug-facilitated sexual assault. In this segment, she explains her role as a forensic nurse examiner and walks through what patients can expect when seeking care at the clinic following a sexual assault.
About the VSC Podcast
The Victim Service Center Podcast sits down with professionals that serve survivors and victims of trauma, or those who have experienced violence, and have conversations about social issues.
