Welcome to The Dirty Verdict Podcast - Season 3, Episode 1. In this episode, hosts Peter Taaffe, Kyle Herbert, and Bill Ogden dive deep into the critical issue of human trafficking with their special guest, Jennifer Hohman. Jennifer is an experienced advocate and former tech professional with a powerful passion for ending human trafficking. With her unique perspective on the intersection of law, advocacy, and technology, Jennifer shares her journey from oil and gas to fighting for victims of exploitation, highlighting the challenges and legal hurdles along the way. This episode is both informative and engaging, as Jennifer offers insight into the complex world of trafficking and provides invaluable advice for parents and communities working to protect the vulnerable.

Show Notes:

• 0:00 - Introduction to Hosts: Meet Peter Taaffe, mediator; Kyle Herbert, plaintiff attorney; and Bill Ogden, nationally awarded traveler and partner at Fair and Ball.
• 2:00 - Guest Introduction: Jennifer Hohman shares her background in IT and tech, her transition to anti-human trafficking advocacy, and her deep commitment to legislative change.
• 5:00 - Human Trafficking Awareness: Jennifer opens up about the shocking real-life stories of human trafficking in Texas, discussing how young victims are often groomed online.
• 8:00 - Grooming and Exploitation: Understanding the insidious tactics traffickers use, including social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, and how young people are vulnerable to exploitation.
• 13:00 - The Role of Technology: A discussion on the evolving role of technology in both facilitating and combating trafficking, from AI-driven algorithms to monitoring social media.
• 18:00 - Legislative Advocacy: Insight into the bills Jennifer has worked on to combat trafficking and support victims, including the "FOSTA-SESTA" bill and local efforts in Texas.
• 24:00 - The Fight for Victims: Jennifer talks about the challenges of securing restorative care and therapeutic services for trafficking survivors, especially in a state with limited resources.
• 30:00 - Tips for Parents: Key advice for parents on how to protect their children from falling prey to traffickers, including monitoring social media and having open conversations.
• 35:00 - How You Can Help: Jennifer shares how individuals can get involved, support organizations, and advocate for legislative changes that protect victims and prevent trafficking.

Join us as we explore the hard truths of trafficking, the legal complexities, and how we can all take action to end this crime.