Lisa Phillips recently recounted her harrowing experience with Jeffrey Epstein during an emotional podcast episode, shedding light on the dark reality of sexual abuse in the modeling industry.
In her new podcast "From Now On," Phillips unveils her past abuse by Epstein, aiming to support other victims and promote self-awareness across professions, Fox News reported.
When Phillips first met Epstein, she was a hopeful model at the age of 21, striving to make her mark in the fashion world. Having entered the industry at 16, she had already traveled extensively, visiting major fashion capitals in pursuit of her dream. It was during this formative phase of her career that she encountered Epstein, who presented himself as a benefactor to young models.
Epstein's charm was part of his manipulative approach. Phillips recalled how he initially appeared very attentive and interested in her career aspirations, making her feel both special and safe. It was this guise of concern and support that would later facilitate a more sinister agenda.
The abuse occurred under unsettling circumstances. Following a dinner at his private island, Epstein suggested he needed a massage, a scenario that soon escalated into abuse. Phillips described the experience as a slow and confusing betrayal by someone she initially believed was a mentor.
After the incident, Phillips returned to New York, grappling with a maelstrom of emotions. She felt tarnished and filled with self-doubt, questioning her self-worth.
This psychological turmoil led her to substance abuse, reflecting her struggle to cope with the betrayal and public misperception of Epstein as a respectable figure.
Testifying in a civil case in 2022, Phillips shared these experiences, aiming to shine a light on the breadth of Epstein's exploitation network which targeted young girls from 2002 to at least 2005.
The trauma from her abuse left deep scars, exacerbated by Epstein's continued influence in high society and the legal protections that seemed to shield him until his death.
In 2019, Epstein was again arrested, this time facing charges of sex trafficking. He died by suicide in August of that year. Following his death, there were significant indictments and convictions of his associates, including Ghislaine Maxwell, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for her role in facilitating Epstein's abuse.
Phillips received a settlement from JPMorgan Chase & Co. regarding abuse connected with an Epstein associate. This legal acknowledgment was a step toward justice for Phillips and many other victims, highlighting the financial institutions' indirect roles in facilitating Epstein's crimes through financial services.
Driven by her journey of healing and justice, Phillips launched "From Now On," a podcast dedicated to providing a voice for victims of abuse. Through this platform, she seeks to offer a safe space for testimonies and discussions that educate and empower other survivors and society at large.
Speaking on her podcast, Phillips emphasized the importance of recognizing red flags in any professional field. Her experience underscores the vulnerability of young women in industries like modeling, where they may be viewed as easy targets by predatory figures.
Phillips’ resilient stand and subsequent advocacy underscore a potent message about the importance of speaking out and seeking justice. Her efforts, through legal means and public discourse, aim to foster an environment where victims can find support and empowerment.
