Imagine walking through your quiet neighborhood. Dogs are being walked, children are playing outside, and neighbors exchange the classic wave and nod as they pass. Everything appears normal. Yet research shows that about half of all U.S. adults will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, and an estimated 6.8 percent will develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives. (National Institute of Mental Health). Behind closed doors, many are quietly carrying grief, trauma, addiction, or depression that remains unseen. 

 

This reality is what inspired the Shattered Silence: Stories of Recovery and Resilience, a podcast dedicated to sharing real stories of struggle, recovery, and hope. Created to break down stigma and embrace connection, helping those struggling not feel ashamed or alone. The podcast brings together voices from across the country and beyond, while remaining deeply rooted in the local community. 

 

The Shattered Silence host, Jori Kinney, used her own life experiences to shape the mission behind the microphone. Her journey with trauma began at a young age. Growing up in Bakersfield, she experienced profound loss when her best friend was struck and killed by a car at just 10 years old. Experiencing profound loss at a young age shaped her awareness and understanding of life in ways fewer children encounter. 

 

As the years passed, significant loss continued to follow. In August of 2023, life seemed normal. Jori and her fiancé, Kyle, were newly engaged and just beginning to build their family with their eight-month-old son. With no clear signs of how deeply he was internally struggling, Kyle purchased a single pill that was unknowingly laced with fentanyl. That one decision ended his life. 

 

Among the many losses Jori has experienced, the sudden death of Kyle marked a profound turning point in her life. His loss made one message very clear: a single mistake should not cost someone their life. Mental health challenges do not define a person’s worth, and silence only deepens the crisis. Shattered Silence was born out of a desire to bring awareness to these struggles and help prevent further loss through honest conversation and shared resources. 

 

The podcast officially launched in August of 2024. While it now reaches listeners across the United States and internationally, many of its most powerful episodes feature voices from the local community. Seven Oaks neighbor, David Castro, has been a guest on the podcast openly sharing his journey through addiction and the tools that helped him find a path forward. He later returned for a second episode alongside his wife, Kendal, who shared her own experiences and the work they have done together to support one another and stay on a healthy path as a couple.  

 

Shattered Silence has also had the opportunity to work with some local non-profit organizations. Ashley, founder of Amelia Malloy’s Angels and Christina, founder of The Phillip Campas Foundation, each joined the podcast to speak openly about the experiences that inspired them to create their organizations and their missions to support families. 

 

Let’s not forget, Shattered Silence is not only powered by a single voice behind the microphone, but it is supported by a collective effort rooted in purpose and compassion. Citryn Marketing brings each episode to life through thoughtful editing and strategic social media management, ensuring stories are shared with professionalism and care. The podcast is also proudly supported by its main sponsor, Aspire Counseling Services, whose work in addiction and behavioral health provides listeners with trusted resources and pathways to support. Alongside them is producer Teresa Greenhaw, who communicates directly with guests and listeners and serves as a steady, compassionate presence throughout the process. Together, this team forms the foundation that allows Shattered Silence to continue its mission of connection, education, and healing. 

 

Shattered Silence exists to remind communities that the people they pass each day may be fighting invisible battles. By sharing stories, reducing stigma, and connecting individuals to meaningful resources, the podcast works toward a future where silence no longer isolates, and healing becomes possible through understanding and support.