Rape Academy: Exposing an Online Network That Trains Men to Abuse

This episode investigates the disturbing phenomenon called "Rape Academy": clandestine online communities where men share tips, videos, and tactics for drugging and sexually abusing women, often their partners. We discuss insights gained through investigative reporting, the role of technology platforms and regulation failures, and seek to understand where our prayers and intentions may be best focused in our silent activism against the abuse that too many women are facing and continue to be traumatized by. Please note that this episode describes subject matter that may disturb some listeners. Intentions and prayers start at 22 minutes 25 seconds. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we reflect on the deeply concerning existence of Rape Academy and the mass abuse that this supports, we suggest holding as our main intention: We will that all women who have been or may be drugged, assaulted or abused for the sexual pleasure or profit of men are held in light and given the voice and support that they need. Please join us in holding this. Selected national sexual‑violence support services: Australia 1800RESPECT – National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service Phone (24/7): 1800 737 732 (within Australia) Online chat: via website Website: https://1800respect.org.au Scope: Confidential counselling, information, and referrals nationwide for people affected by sexual assault or domestic and family violence. Full Stop Australia Phone (national sexual, domestic and family violence counselling line): 1800 385 578 (check website for latest number) Website: https://fullstop.org.au Scope: Specialist sexual violence and abuse support; website also lists state‑based rape crisis and sexual assault services. NASASV – Australian Sexual Assault Services Directory Website: https://www.nasasv.org.au/support-directory Scope: Directory of sexual assault services and rape crisis centres across all states and territories (includes phone and email contacts). Canada Ending Violence Association of Canada – Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines, and Support Services Website: https://endingviolencecanada.org/sexual-assault-centres-crisis-lines-and-support-services Scope: National and provincial directory of sexual assault centres, crisis lines and other support services across Canada, with phone numbers for each province and territory. Sexual Violence Helpline (Canada) Phone / text / chat: access via https://sexualviolencehelpline.ca Scope: Helpline and web‑based service offering information, emotional support and referrals to local services for people affected by sexual violence. ShelterSafe (national shelter locator) Website: https://sheltersafe.ca (linked from Ending Violence Association of Canada) Scope: Map‑based directory of women’s shelters and transition houses for those fleeing violence, including sexual violence. Ireland Dublin Rape Crisis Centre – 24‑Hour National Helpline 24‑hour National Helpline (freephone): 1800 77 8888 Webchat and information: via website Website: https://www.drcc.ie Email: info@rcc.ie Scope: National 24/7 telephone support, webchat, face‑to‑face counselling, accompaniment for medical, legal and court processes for anyone affected by rape or sexual assault at any time in their life. Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) Phone (office): 01 865 6954 Website: https://www.rapecrisishelp.ie (also referred to as Rape Crisis Network Ireland) Email: info@rcni.ie Scope: National network and advocacy body; provides information on rights, options, and a directory of local Rape Crisis Centres and Sexual Assault Treatment Units (SATUs) across Ireland. Crime Victims Helpline (Ireland) Freephone: 116 006 Text: 085 133 7711 Email: info@crimevictimshelpline.ie Website: https://www.crimevictimshelpline.ie Scope: National support line for all crime victims, including sexual violence; offers information on the criminal justice system, victims’ rights and referrals to local specialist services. New Zealand Wellington HELP – Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence Crisis line (24/7): 0800 FOR HELP (0800 367 4357)