Marina's Personal Tale

Content Note: This episode includes discussions of child sexual abuse, sexual assault, drug addiction, child abuse, and human trafficking. Please take care of yourself and step away if you need to. Your well-being matters. Thank you for being here and for supporting this safe space.

In this powerful and inspiring bonus episode, Celene Beth shares space with Marina Lacerda, a survivor, mother, and advocate who has transformed her experiences into a movement of strength, truth, and empowerment. Marina’s journey is one of reclaiming her voice, standing in her power, and showing what it means to rise after being silenced.

Marina spent her early childhood in Brazil before moving to the United States at eight years old. Her path included experiences of exploitation that eventually brought her into the Jeffrey Epstein case as Minor Victim 1. Today, she uses her story as a catalyst for change, leading with compassion, honesty, and a deep commitment to helping others find healing and hope.

Through her conversation with Celene Beth, Marina reflects on what it means to rebuild from within. She shares how motherhood, her love for animals, and the solidarity of other survivors, including Virginia Giuffre, have strengthened her purpose and renewed her belief in the power of community.

A defining moment in Marina’s advocacy came on September 3, 2025, when she stood proudly on the steps of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., alongside her fellow survivors. In that moment, they embodied resilience and unity, raised their voices in a collective demand for justice, and affirmed the undeniable truth that every survivor’s voice matters.

This episode honors the courage it takes to rise beyond silence and reclaim your story. Marina reminds us that healing is not only possible but powerful, and that by standing together, survivors can create change that echoes far beyond their own stories.

Marina's Instagram: @marinalacerdaforsurvivors

The podcast remains on hiatus until 2026. Please join Celene Beth for a special bonus episode on November 26th, featuring a meaningful conversation with Sherri Papini.

Resources for Survivors

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault (as an adult or minor), child exploitation, trafficking, or challenges connected to substance use, the organizations below offer confidential, trauma-informed support:

United States

RAINN – Sexual Assault Support
24/7 Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Compassionate, confidential support for anyone impacted by sexual assault.
Website: https://www.rainn.org

National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Text: “BeFree” to 233733
Support for individuals experiencing or recovering from trafficking or exploitation.
Website: https://humantraffickinghotline.org

NCMEC – National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
24/7 Hotline: 1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678)
Assistance for concerns involving child exploitation and online harm.
Website: https://www.missingkids.org

SAMHSA – Substance Use & Mental Health
24/7 Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Confidential guidance and treatment referrals for drug and alcohol use, as well as co-occurring mental health needs.
Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

International

RAINN Global Resources Directory
Listings for international sexual assault crisis centers and support lines.
Website: https://www.rainn.org/international-resources

ECPAT International
Global network dedicated to ending child exploitation and trafficking.
Website: https://www.ecpat.org

International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC)
Worldwide resources focused on child protection and exploitation prevention.
Website: https://www.icmec.org

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) International
Global recovery meetings and peer support for individuals navigating alcohol use challenges.
Website: https://www.aa.org