Join Erica and Johanna in discussion this week with survivor Aaron Ricciardi who shares his survivor story in the form of a crown of sonnets detailing the many years of abuse he survived at the hands of his drama teacher. Aaron speaks on the power of being ruthlessly honest, naming his abuser, and saying ‘Enough!’ As a male survivor, Aaron sheds light on how boys and men are at risk for abuse and assault. 

[Content Warning]: This is a podcast where survivors share stories of sexual assault, sexual violence, and r*pe. In this episode, Aaron’s story includes pedophilia, childhood and adolescent sexual abuse, and an inappropriate teacher-student relationship. The story is told between the 20 and 31 minute mark but is referred to throughout the episode.  

In a powerful example of a healing journey, Aaron is now an instructor himself. He shares with us not only his love of teaching but also his passion for rewatching award show acceptance speeches and making homemade ice cream.

Aaron is a writer and performer. He makes plays, musicals, and is flirting with TV. Aaron graduated from the Theatre program at Northwestern University, where he studied playwriting under Laura Schellhardt, and he received his MFA in Playwriting from Indiana University, where he studied under Peter Gil-Sheridan. Aaron is currently on faculty at SUNY New Paltz in their Creative Writing Program.

Follow us @grayareastories and visit www.grayareastories.com

Hosted by Johanna Middleton and Erica M. Hart

Edited by Erica M. Hart

Additional editing support by Maya Bingham

Production Assistance by Ashley Nicole Adams

Theme Song by Nailah Hunter

Show logo by Brianna Guerra