# EP 59 Why Connection Comes Before Protection with Neil Milton

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/conversations-with-kristi-6478253/ep-59-why-connection-comes-before-protection-with-neil-milton
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/conversations-with-kristi-6478253/ep-59-why-connection-comes-before-protection-with-neil-milton.md
Podcast: [Conversations with Kristi](https://stenobird.com/podcast/conversations-with-kristi-6478253)
Published: 2026-03-04T22:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://www.kristimcvee.com/podcasts/conversations-with-kristi/episodes/2149160620
Audio file: https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/medias/2149160620.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/conversations-with-kristi-6478253/episodes/ep-59-why-connection-comes-before-protection-with-neil-milton
Duration seconds: 3239

## Resource

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi , Kristi is joined by Neil Milton  - founder of The Table Talk Project , advocate, and survivor - for a powerful and deeply human conversation about connection, prevention, and the role safe relationships play in protecting children and strengthening families. Neil shares his lived experience of growing up without a voice at home, the long-term impact of childhood sexual abuse, and how unaddressed trauma shaped his relationships, sense of safety, and ability to ask for help. He reflects on how becoming a parent - and later recognising his own experiences as abuse - became a catalyst for creating spaces where children are heard, believed, and supported. Together, Kristi and Neil explore how everyday disconnection within families can increase vulnerability to harm, why children often communicate distress through behaviour rather than words, and how something as simple - and intentional - as sharing a meal can create profound protective factors. This episode unpacks how grooming can occur in plain sight, the dangers of “busy” culture, and why having a designated space for conversation matters. It also explores the ripple effects of connection - from improved mental health and resilience, to early disclosure of harm and strengthened family bonds. This is not about perfection. It’s about presence, prevention, and creating environments where nothing is off the table. Content Warning This episode includes discussion of: childhood sexual abuse grooming behaviours trauma and mental health challenges suicide and suicidal ideation family violence and relational harm Some listeners may find this content confronting. Please listen with care and pause or step away if needed. Support resources are listed below. Key Themes Covered How…

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## Transcript

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