Episode 211 Terra Newell
Terra Newell
Podcaster and Crime Victims’ Advocate
“Terra Newell: More Than Just "Dirty John." She is a modern day David, who conquered a Goliath and proved that size and physical strength alone are not enough to defeat a real hero.”
Terra and Jeanne in the Pepptalks Studios November 12, 2024.
Terra Newell is an extraordinary figure in the world of true crime and advocacy, known worldwide as the heroine of the "Dirty John" story. Her life was irrevocably changed on August 20, 2016, when she was ambushed and violently attacked by her stepfather, serial conman and abuser John Meehan. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Terra fought back, defending her life and saving her family from Meehan's deadly cycle of abuse in a courageous act of self-defense.
Since that life-altering event, Terra has emerged not as a victim, but as a dynamic Crime Victims' Advocate, podcaster, and wellness coach. She actively shares her dramatic, first-hand account on global platforms, including her own podcast, Terra's Baddies Club, to ensure her story is told accurately—a critical distinction, as the original "Dirty John" podcast and TV show were based on a journalistic article, not on direct interviews with the victims. Her goal is to bring authentic survivor voices to the forefront of the true crime discussion.
Terra focuses her advocacy on the often-unseen facets of domestic abuse, particularly coercive control and narcissistic manipulation. She works alongside experts like criminal behavior analyst Laura Richards to promote legislative change, successfully working to pass laws against coercive control in California. This legal work is central to her mission: empowering others to recognize the subtle red flags of abuse, understand the mechanics of emotional manipulation, and reclaim their power.
As a trauma-informed yoga teacher and coach, Terra guides others through their healing processes, offering practical steps and tools for recovery. Her message is one of hope and resilience, demonstrating that trauma is not the end of the story. Additionally, she has ventured into the world of education, teaching aspiring podcasters and currently working on a documentary project. Terra Newell is a profound example of how a survivor can turn a moment of terror into a lifetime of dedicated service, proving that courage, integrity, and a powerful voice are more than enough to conquer any Goliath.
Episode 211
Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper
Guest: Terra Newell
Find out more about Terra here
Check out Terra’s website here
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to our volunteers
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Find out more about Terra here
Check out Terra’s website here
Jeanne and Terra's conversation encourages listeners to use their experiences as catalysts for change, fostering compassion and understanding in a challenging world.
