In this deeply moving and unflinchingly honest episode, Sam Troth opens up about his lived experience as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. His story is not just one of survival, but of resilience, advocacy and the relentless pursuit of justice. Sam takes us through the long shadow abuse has cast over his life—from its devastating impact on his mental health and relationships to his battles with addiction and the crushing failures of the justice system to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

This conversation is raw and necessary. It shines a light on the chilling reality that one in six boys and one in three girls will experience sexual abuse before the age of sixteen. Sam doesn’t shy away from the hard truths—about the predators who groom not just children but their communities, about the institutions that enabled abuse under the guise of care and about the silence that too often protects abusers more than it defends the innocent.

But amidst the pain is power. Sam speaks with fierce clarity about the ripple effects of abuse—not only the personal toll it takes, but the way it echoes across families, generations, and entire communities. He shares how education, open conversation, and early body-safety awareness are vital tools in prevention. He also explores the journey from victim to advocate and how walking for awareness became a way to reclaim his voice and his healing.

In one of the most powerful acts of advocacy, Sam is currently walking the length of New Zealand—from its northernmost tip to Parliament in Wellington—carrying with him a petition calling for a minimum eight-year sentence for sexual offending. It's a grueling and symbolic journey that amplifies the voices of countless survivors and demands that lawmakers take meaningful action to protect the most vulnerable. This isn’t just a walk—it’s a movement.

This episode is a call to action. It challenges us to break the silence, to confront the systemic failures that perpetuate abuse and to recognize the staggering economic, emotional and societal costs of inaction. Through Sam’s powerful testimony, listeners are reminded that change begins with conversation—and that empowering survivors and holding space for their truth is the first step in building a safer world for all children.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses themes of childhood sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

 

To support Sam’s mission and sign the petition for a minimum eight-year sentence for sexual offending, follow the link at the end of these show notes. Your voice matters.

petitions.parliament.nz/4ea3ebcf-8a45-4a57-a30e-08dd63dfe70d

Sam's Givealittle page:

givealittle.co.nz/cause/cape-reinga-to-the-beehive-support-justice-reform

Helplines and local mental-health services:

healthed.govt.nz/products/helplines-and-mental-health-services

Sam's Instagram:

@theroadtohealingaoteartoa

Direct link:

instagram.com/theroadtohealingaotearoa?igsh=YWtnOXBocWJjMTM%3D

Website:

www.theroadtohealing.co.nz