Called to Protect: How Christians Can Help Stop Online Trafficking - IJM, episode 03

EP 03. Online child trafficking is growing—and often happening live on camera and targeting children as young as TWO years old. In this episode, IJM’s Amanda Vohs joins host Sarah Panus to explain what OSEC is, why it’s spreading, and how Christian parents can respond with hope and action. 

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Called to Protect: How Christians Can Help Stop Online Trafficking

Welcome to Episode 3 of KEEP KIDS SAFE! I'm your host, Sarah Panus, and I’m so grateful you’re tuning in.

If you're a Christian parent who wants to raise kids who love Jesus and stay safe in today’s world—but often feel overwhelmed by all the dangers out there—you are not alone. This podcast is here to help.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Amanda Vohs, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at International Justice Mission (IJM). Amanda shares the heartbreaking reality of online sexual exploitation of children—also called OSEC—and what’s driving this dark, growing crime. But this isn’t just a heavy episode—it’s also full of hope and action.

You’ll hear how IJM is working alongside local governments (especially in the Philippines) to rescue kids, prosecute abusers, and shut down live-streamed abuse. And you’ll learn practical ways Christian parents like us can be part of the solution, even if we feel overwhelmed.

Together, we can make a difference.

In This Episode, You'll Hear About:

• What OSEC (Online Sexual Exploitation of Children) really is—and how it’s different from other trafficking
  
  
• How Western demand fuels this horrific crime—and why the Philippines has become a major supply hub
  
  
• How IJM partners with local governments to create systemic, justice-driven change
  
  
• The role of faith, courage, and community in fighting online trafficking
  
  
• Tangible steps you can take to protect children and support those doing frontline work

📖 Bible Verse for This Episode:

Proverbs 31:8 (NIV)
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."

This verse beautifully anchors today’s conversation—a call to action to stand up for vulnerable children and be the light in dark places.

Why KEEP KIDS SAFE Podcast Exists

I started this show because I heard so many Christian parents—myself included—say things like:

“It’s too overwhelming.”
“It’s too heartbreaking.”
“I don’t even know where to start.”

And you know what? I get it. I really do.
But here’s the truth: while we can’t solve everything individually, together we can absolutely make a difference.

My hope is that KEEP KIDS SAFE becomes a practical, hope-filled bridge between where you are today and where you want to be—a parent who’s more informed, less anxious, and ready to protect not just your kids, but kids everywhere.

Donate to IJM Directly

Here's link to donate directly to IJM. 100% of funds go directly to support the life saving work done by dedicated International Justice Mission teams around the world. Donate any amount at: https://www.ijm.org/give/main-single-form?src=web&v=0&rsp=online&lv=#!/donation/checkout⁠

Help Me Spread the Light

Together, we can be the light God calls us to be. If this episode encouraged you, I invite you to:

• Join my email list for updates about future episodes & related topics to help keep kids safe at: https://sarahpanus.myflodesk.com/keep-kids-safe 
  
  
• Please share it with a friend or business who cares about keeping kids safe.

Donate to Support Future KEEP KIDS SAFE Content

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If KEEP KIDS SAFE has encouraged you, would you consider making a one-time or monthly gift to support the mission?

Your donation helps me create free, hope-filled content that equips Christian parents to protect their kids and shine God’s light into dark places.

Every gift matters—thank you for standing for the safety of children everywhere!

ABOUT THE HOST, SARAH PANUS

Sarah Panus is a Christian mom, the host of KEEP KIDS SAFE and Marketing With Empathy® (top 5% podcast globally), owner of content marketing consulting company Kindred Speak, and a passionate advocate for protecting children. She’s on a mission to equip Christian parents with hope-filled, practical ways to keep kids safe in today’s world. She lives in Minnesota with her husband, two kids and dog.  Learn more at www.kindredspeak.com.