Real Life Real Crime
Episode: Queens ep 3 - Reboot
Release Date: June 22, 2025
Host: Woody Overton
Guest: Tina (Founder of Queens of Digital Marketing)
Introduction to the Episode
In Episode 3, titled "Queens ep 3 - Reboot," Woody Overton engages in a profound and heartfelt discussion with Tina, the founder of Queens of Digital Marketing, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking. This episode delves deep into the often-overlooked aspects of human trafficking, particularly within the foster care system, and highlights Tina's commendable efforts to empower survivors through professional training and career opportunities.
Human Trafficking in Foster Care
Tina opens the conversation by challenging common misconceptions about human trafficking. She emphasizes that trafficking isn't solely orchestrated by cross-border activities involving "coyotes" but is significantly prevalent within the foster care system.
Tina [05:34]: "That's what the media wants you to believe."
She explains that many traffickers exploit vulnerable young American girls—often those in foster care—by integrating them into everyday environments where oversight is minimal. Tina sheds light on harrowing instances where foster parents have trafficked children under their supervision.
Tina [07:01]: "I did read a case where a young girl was caged in the back of her house... it's been proven that their foster parents trafficked them."
Woody adds his observations, noting the disturbing trend of children being found in deplorable conditions, such as locked in closets or dog cages, yet rarely discussing the underlying exploitation.
Woody Overton [09:04]: "I don't really get that. Why would you cage them if you weren't doing something else nefarious with them?"
Challenges in Detecting and Addressing Trafficking
The conversation further explores the systemic issues that allow trafficking to flourish unnoticed. Tina points out the foster care crisis, highlighting insufficient oversight and support, which traffickers exploit to their advantage.
Tina [06:08]: "There's a huge foster care crisis in this country right now. So there's not enough workers really, to oversee them properly."
Both hosts discuss the lack of media attention on these cases, suggesting that the complexities and sensitivities surrounding foster care and trafficking often result in underreporting.
Woody Overton [09:49]: "Then the case takes a whole different trajectory... there's a lot of things that go on that are undetected by the media."
Queens of Digital Marketing: Empowering Survivors
Tina introduces Queens of Digital Marketing, an initiative designed to provide professional training and career opportunities to survivors of human trafficking. She recounts the rigorous selection process, ensuring that participants are stable and have been out of trafficking for at least a year.
Tina [10:46]: "There are a lot of different ways. ... We created an application process on our website... require that they do a little essay..."
One notable success story involves a survivor who transitioned from being traumatized and hesitant to fully engaging in a customer-facing role after receiving comprehensive support and training.
Tina [12:42]: "When we got her, she would barely look anybody in the eye... now she actually... She's doing very well."
Woody underscores the importance of such programs in breaking the vicious cycle of trauma and exploitation.
Woody Overton [14:58]: "No, I can't. That's right. It takes collaboration from other partners."
Expanding Reach and Resources
To sustain and grow Queens of Digital Marketing, Tina discusses various fundraising efforts, including silent auctions and participation in industry conferences. These events not only raise necessary funds but also increase awareness and attract potential supporters.
Tina [43:13]: "The auction takes place on August 28th in Denver at the Cocktails for a Cause. ... we have a lot of gift cards, Apple... Sephora... massage and a spy finder."
She also highlights the challenges of funding and resource allocation, emphasizing the need for ongoing support to provide comprehensive services to survivors.
Tina [26:27]: "And you know, it cost me $15 an hour for someone on the phone. ... holding up because there's so much need."
Survivor Stories and Personal Impact
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to sharing survivor stories, illustrating the deep-seated trauma and resilience of those affected by trafficking. Tina shares her personal experiences and the transformative power of therapy and support systems like Queens of Digital Marketing.
Tina [29:32]: "I was out of physical... I just think I had to take care of my daughter."
Woody reflects on the necessity of humanizing these stories to foster empathy and awareness among listeners.
Woody Overton [55:24]: "But the real need is... you got to put human faces on the victims... otherwise, the people just become desensitized."
Upcoming Events and Calls to Action
Towards the end of the episode, Tina announces upcoming events and fundraisers aimed at further supporting Queens of Digital Marketing. These include a silent auction in Denver and a golf tournament in Las Vegas, both pivotal in raising funds and expanding the program's reach.
Tina [43:13]: "We have a silent auction that's prefacing our cocktails for a cause party... we're going to be doing it at Las Vegas Country Club."
Woody encourages listeners to participate and donate, emphasizing the direct impact their support can have on survivors' lives.
Woody Overton [60:03]: "Share it. Sharing equals awareness... it's a system, Queens of Digital Marketing, that can help them thrive again and break that cycle."
Conclusion: Breaking the Cycle
The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against human trafficking and the crucial role organizations like Queens of Digital Marketing play in breaking the cycle of trauma and exploitation. Tina and Woody reiterate the importance of community support, awareness, and active participation in fundraising efforts to ensure survivors receive the help they need to rebuild their lives.
Tina [57:28]: "We're not given a hand out, we're given a hand up."
Woody Overton [62:50]: "Help bring awareness. And thank you, Ms. Tina. We really, really, really appreciate you."
Notable Quotes
- Tina [05:34]: "That's what the media wants you to believe."
- Woody Overton [09:04]: "I don't really get that. Why would you cage them if you weren't doing something else nefarious with them?"
- Tina [12:42]: "When we got her, she would barely look anybody in the eye... now she actually... She's doing very well."
- Woody Overton [14:58]: "No, I can't. That's right. It takes collaboration from other partners."
- Tina [26:27]: "And you know, it cost me $15 an hour for someone on the phone. ... holding up because there's so much need."
- Woody Overton [55:24]: "But the real need is... you got to put human faces on the victims... otherwise, the people just become desensitized."
- Tina [57:28]: "We're not given a hand out, we're given a hand up."
Final Thoughts
"Queens ep 3 - Reboot" is a compelling episode that not only sheds light on the hidden facets of human trafficking but also showcases the tangible efforts being made to support and empower survivors. Through heartfelt storytelling and actionable insights, Woody Overton and Tina emphasize the importance of community involvement, awareness, and sustained support in combating these pervasive issues.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with Queens of Digital Marketing, participate in upcoming fundraisers, and spread awareness to ensure that survivors receive the assistance and opportunities they deserve to thrive.