In this episode of Talking Violence, we take a deep dive into the complexities of gender-based violence. Our guest, Lilian Schwerdtner, feminist activist, writer, and co-host of the Not Your Opfer - Not Your Victim podcast, brings her expertise on the political and psychological dimensions of violence, healing, and resistance. Together, we explore the many ways gender-based violence manifests, tracing its roots to personal experiences as well as to the broader societal systems that sustain it. We discuss gender-based violence as a structural issue, highlighting its entanglement with trauma, mental health, and social justice. Additionally, we tackle the role of intersectionality in understanding how gender-based violence affects diverse communities, particularly marginalized and minority groups whose experiences are often overlooked. In this context, Lilian unpacks the harmful impact of rape myths and how they normalize sexual violence, distort public narratives, and obstruct survivors’ healing and pursuit of justice. Finally, we talk about the power of activism and community solidarity in fostering safe spaces and creating systemic change.