Trigger Alert : This episode contains content of a sensitive nature around child abuse, violence, along with sexual references that may cause distress. This episode is not suitable for children, listener and viewer discretion is strongly advised.

Rafael Viola, a survivor of systemic abuse and a whistleblower, shines a harrowing light on the grim realities faced by kids in children's homes.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1959, Rafael’s life took a devastating turn when, at just nine years old, he was labeled “severely retarded”. This diagnosis was later discredited but at that time it paved the way for his placement in a series of children's homes.

As he grew older, the trauma of his past followed him, making it difficult to find stability. Despite passing exams, he struggled to hold jobs and spiraled into cycles of addiction, self-harm, and homelessness, searching for escape from the pain.

Now, Rafael channels his resilience into advocacy. Through his book, Stealing Lives, Rafael shares his painful journey in the pursuit of raising awareness and seeking justice.