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    We Should Talk About That

    Join host, Jessica Kidwell, as she attempts to unpack the uncomfortable topics that nobody is talking about, but definitely should. With intention to hold real, authentic, conversation about EVERYTHING, Jessica brings her humor and a healthy dose of self-deprecation to the table as she invites a weekly guest to unpack issues relating to parenthood, grief, imposter syndrome, body image, middle age, the plight of the working mom and more.   

    en-usJessica Kidwell237 Episodes

    Episodes (237)

    We Should Talk About Gender Diversity and God with Jamie Bruesehoff

    We Should Talk About Gender Diversity and God with Jamie Bruesehoff

    "If we understand there is a biblical basis, there is a theological basis for understanding that transgender people and gender expansive people are created in the image of God -  just like all people- then it makes it easier to .... understand we don't have to choose between our faith and the people we love."

    Jamie Bruesehoff is an award-winning LGBTQ+ advocate, nationally known speaker, and mother of three, including a transgender child.  She also has a master's degree from The Lutheran Theological Seminary-Gettysburg and is the wife of a Lutheran pastor.  She has twenty years of experience working with youth and adults in and outside of the church, she strives to create a world where LGBTQ+ young people thrive.  Her book, "Raising Kids Beyond the Binary: Celebrating God's Transgender and Gender-Diverse Children" came out in September 2023. 

    Join us for a wide ranging conversation about faith, parenting, gender diversity, supporting the experience of a transgender person, and expanding our understanding about what gender means to each of us.

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    Chelsey Goodan On How We Consistently Underestimate Teenage Girls

    Chelsey Goodan On How We Consistently Underestimate Teenage Girls

    “I’ve personally witnessed how Chelsey changes the lives of teenage girls for the better. This book is exactly what we all need right now, for our families and for our future voices in the world."

    —Laura Dern, Academy Award-winning actress and New York Times bestselling author of Honey, Baby, Mine


    Teenage girls have a lot of assumptions made about them, and they’re not very positive.  Things like, they’re dramatic, they’re mean, they’re overly emotional, and they don’t know really know what they want or who they want to be.

    Chelsey Goodan, the author of "UNDERESTIMATED: The Wisdom and Power of Teenage Girls", is on a mission to dispel these assumptions and show us why we actually have a lot to learn from teenage girls.  

    About my guest:

    Chelsey Goodan has spent 16 years working as an academic tutor and also volunteering her time to mentor teenage girls. Chelsey now speaks regularly to audiences and conducts workshops on gender justice, and revealing how teenage girls can teach us all how to create more heartfelt connections and impactful change.

    Buy the book here!

    Resources cited:
    A Call to Men- The Next Generation of Manhood

    Peggy Orenstein's "Girls and Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape"
    https://www.peggyorenstein.com/main-st

    Dr. Emily Morse's "Smart Sex: How to Boost Your Sex IQ and Own Your Pleasure"
    https://www.harpercollins.com/products/smart-sex-emily-morse?variant=40992969556002

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usMarch 04, 2024

    We Should Talk About Vern Kidwell

    We Should Talk About Vern Kidwell

    We Should Talk About That is going on a break for a couple of weeks for a little refresh and re-tooling.  But before I go, I want to take a minute to honor a man who has meant so very much to me, my father in law, Vernard Charles Kidwell, Jr.
    Vern passed away February 4th, 2024 at the ripe age of 98 and I am just back from a weekend of honoring him and his incredible life.  

    A WWII veteran and celebrated jazz trumpet player, Vern lived many chapters and I wanted to do my small part in honoring and remembering him by documenting his memory in my little podcast, or as he would always refer to it, my "television show".  I sure did love this man and I invite you to spend 15 minutes with me to honor him as well.


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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usFebruary 12, 2024

    Jess Buchanan and Her Latest Anthology, Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self Acceptance

    Jess Buchanan and Her Latest Anthology, Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self Acceptance

    This week I welcome Jess Buchanan back on the show to talk about the release of  her second anthology series, Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self Acceptance.   It was so great to catch up on what's been happening in her world and to discuss this project.

    In this episode:

    • Find out why this topic was chosen for the anthology series
    • Hear the process of putting an anthology project together with 18 other authors
    • Talk about the fear that keeps women from telling their stories
    • Discuss why that fear must be faced and MORE stories need to be shared

    This week's guest:
    Jessica Buchanan is a Teacher, Author, Humanitarian, Speaker, Founder, and Survivor.

    In her NYT Bestselling memoir Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six, Jessica details her experience as she was abducted at gunpoint and held for ransom by a group of Somali pirates for 93 days. Forced to live outdoors in deplorable conditions, starved, and terrorized by more than two dozen gangsters, Jessica’s health steadily deteriorated until, by order of President Obama, she was rescued by the elite SEAL Team VI on January 25, 2012.

    Jessica is now a highly sought-after inspirational speaker, TEDx Speaker, and is also the founder of Soul Speak Press. Her latest book is an anthology titled “Deserts to Mountaintops: Choosing Our Healing Through Radical Self Acceptance.” She is married to a native Swede, has two children, and now resides in the DC Metro area.

    Buy the book here

    Find out more about Soul Speak Press

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usFebruary 05, 2024

    Michelle Horton, author of, "Dear Sister: A Memoir of Secrets, Survival, and Unbreakable Bonds"

    Michelle Horton, author of, "Dear Sister: A Memoir of Secrets, Survival, and Unbreakable Bonds"

    In September 2017, after years of physical abuse and sexual torture, Nicole "Nikki" Addimando fatally shot her abusive partner in self-defense.  And in February 2020, Nicole was sentenced to 19 years to life in prison for killing the perpetrator of her abuse, where she became part of the 97% of women in prison nationwide who have experienced physical or sexual abuse.

    Long time listeners of WeSTAT know that I have been personally following this case very closely.  In 2021, I had the opportunity to focus on Nikki’s case in two episodes: One with Rebecca and Wendy, two representatives of the Nicole Addimando Community Defense Committee, as well as with  journalist Justine van der Leun who partnered with Lemonada media and Spiegel and Grau to release a six part award winning podcast about Nikki’s case called “Believe Her” .

    Through all of my following of this case, one person’s name comes up over and over, and that is Nikki’s sister, Michelle Horton.  Since Nikki’s arrest in 2017, Michelle has been caring for Nikki’s two children, Ben and Faith, quarterbacking her defense strategy and trying to figure out how to support Nikki, herself, and so many others that have been devastated by these events.  However, I have never had the opportunity to meet or talk with Michelle, until today.

    Michelle Horton is a passionate writer and advocate based in New York's Hudson Valley. As the caregiver for Nikki Addimando's children, and a crucial figure in Nikki's defense strategy, Michelle has emerged as a fierce advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Her forthcoming memoir, "Dear Sister," provides an intimate and eye-opening look at the challenges faced by survivors within the criminal justice system. Through her unwavering commitment and personal experiences, Michelle offers a compelling voice in advocating for the rights of survivors and shedding light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence.
    Buy the book

    For support and resources:
    Hour Children

    Survived and Punished

    Sanctuary for Families

    Criminalized Survivors Report

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usJanuary 29, 2024

    WeSTAT Pop Culture

    WeSTAT Pop Culture

    The WeSTAT community was polled and the results were unanimous, so, welcome to the first WeSTAT episode dedicated entirely to pop culture!

    In what I hope is the first of a re-occurring series, Jessica is joined by one of her go to pop culture aficionados IRL, Amanda Pedigo. But this isn't just two girlfriends having a chat, Amanda really has her finger on the pulse of all things pop culture.

    This week we cover:

    • The Golden Globes
    • Joy Koy: WTH happened?
    • Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, and Keleigh Teller: WTH were they talking about?
    • Timothy Chalamet and Kylie Jenner: Fan or no?
    • Taylor and Travis AKA "Tayvis Swelce": Fan or no?
    • Saltburn: WTH was THAT?

    Do YOU want to be a part of the next pop culture segment?  Send me a message at info@westatpod.com and let me know what you think we should talk about!  You might just be my next pop culture aficionado called upon!

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usJanuary 15, 2024

    Expert Advice: Using Cannabis to Find Menopause Relief

    Expert Advice: Using Cannabis to Find Menopause Relief

    When women have good information, they make good choices. - Dr. Lauren Streicher

    Discover the surprising benefits of cannabis for menopause symptoms and beyond. Listen in as Ellen Scanlon shares her insights on using CBD and THC to alleviate pain, improve sleep, and support overall well-being. But what happens when the legal market for cannabis doesn't provide the support women need? Tune in to find out.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Discover how cannabis benefits menopause symptoms for relief.
    • Improve your sleep with the power of cannabis.
    • Explore the benefits of low-dose cannabis beverages.
    • Find out how CBD-infused lubes provide pain relief.
    • Learn about menopause education and the role of cannabis.

    My special guest is Ellen Scanlon

    As the host of How to Do the Pot, you’ll find Ellen behind the mic, sharing stories about diverse, modern women and their varied experiences with cannabis, recommending the essential strains for women, and sharing the latest research on the mental and physical benefits of the cannabis plant. Her genuine interest in shedding light on important topics is evident in her thought-provoking series, "Menopause 101." But what makes this former investment professional and health advocate jump out of bed every morning is her overarching mission to empower women to make more informed choices about their health and well-being. Within Ellen’s vision of creating the best podcast for women, she offers a safe and welcoming space to learn more about cannabis. Having released over 200 episodes on everything from sleep to sex, as well as a popular newsletter that reaches tens of thousands of loyal readers, it’s clear that Ellen’s work is striking a chord with the many women curious about cannabis.

    Resources:
    How to do the Pot Podcast
    https://dothepot.com/podcast-series/menopause-101/

    Dr. Lauren Streicher Podcast
    https://www.drstreicher.com/podcast

    New York Times Article:
    Menopause is Having a Moment

    NAMS (North American Menopause Society)
    https://menopause.org/

    https://nationalmenopausefoundation.org/
    WeSTAT Interview with Claire Gill, Founder of The National Menopause Foundation
    lhttps://www.westatpod.com/episodes/episode/4af1867f/collaborating-with-menopause-and-feeling-at-the-top-of-your-game-with-national-menopause-foundation-founder-claire-gill

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usJanuary 08, 2024

    Shifting the Conversation: The Role Men Play in Gender Equity with Kori Reed

    Shifting the Conversation: The Role Men Play in Gender Equity with Kori Reed

    The business case for diversity is so strong, and unless we create a safe space for everyone to have a conversation, we can't move it forward. - Kori Reed

    Uncover the silent majority's role in gender equity as Kori Reed challenges men in the workplace to understand, support, and engage in the conversation.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Explore men's perspectives on gender equity for a fresh understanding of workplace dynamics.
    • Understand the difference between equality and equity to navigate fairness in the workplace effectively.
    • Uncover the challenges of including men in conversations about gender equity for a more inclusive work environment.
    • Discover the significance of the Equal Rights Amendment ratification in shaping workplace equality.

    My special guest is Kori Reed

    Kori Reed, the author of "Men in the Middle: Conversations to Gain Momentum with Gender Equity's Silent Majority," brings over 25 years of experience working in Fortune 500 companies, including Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, PepsiCo, and Kanaq Rubrands. Her background in corporate America has equipped her with a unique perspective on gender equity in the workplace, making her a valuable voice in the conversation. With a passion for unearthing conversations that people are hesitant to have about gender equity, Kori's curiosity and dedication to understanding the nuances of gender equality versus equity have made her a respected figure in this field. Her book and insights shed light on the experiences and perspectives of men in leadership positions, contributing to increased awareness and empathy towards gender equity issues.

    https://www.korireed.com/

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usDecember 18, 2023

    The Defenders: Highlighting Reproductive Rights in a Post Roe World with Gloria Riviera

    The Defenders: Highlighting Reproductive Rights in a Post Roe World with Gloria Riviera

    If you are in medical school in this country right now, it can be challenging to choose to be trained to provide safe abortions. It's scary out there. The laws are confusing. The medical profession is vast. Why choose abortion care? And I would just say anyone who has made that choice and who is seeking out a seasoned doctor who's done these procedures for longer than I've been alive to learn their craft, those are the heroes that we need more of. - Gloria Riviera

    If you're feeling frustrated by the backslide in reproductive rights, then you are not alone! Despite efforts to raise awareness and advocate for change, you may be seeing restrictive laws being passed and limited access to abortion care happening all over the country. Your passion for reproductive justice may be met with resistance and backlash, leaving you feeling disheartened. But remember, your voice and actions are vital in the fight for reproductive rights, and there are others standing with you in this important battle.

    My special guest is Gloria Riviera, co-host of the fantastic podcast The Defenders, which she co-host with Samantha Bee. In The Defenders, Gloria and Sam showcase their dedication to shedding light on the lengths women go to access safe reproductive care and the unsung heroes working behind the scenes to support them.

    Gloria Riviera is a highly experienced correspondent and producer with a 20-year tenure at ABC News. Her extensive coverage of breaking investigative and feature stories for the network's flagship broadcasts and social media platforms, including Good Morning America, World News Tonight, Nightline, and ABC News Radio, has garnered her numerous awards, such as an Emmy and Alfred DuPont Award for her 911 coverage. With a background in covering reproductive health care and abortion rights, Gloria brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation about the complexities of the post-Roe world.

    In this episode, we:

    • Unveil the layers of the abortion debate and reproductive rights.
    • Navigate the complexities within the pro-choice movement.
    • Explore the intersections of religion and abortion, and politics and abortion.
    • Address the challenges of reclaiming language and why "abortion" needs to said more often and loudly.
    • Share ways to empower all people to get involved in the fight for reproductive justice.
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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usDecember 11, 2023

    We Should Talk About My 1st Guest Co-host, Gopi Pillai!

    We Should Talk About My 1st Guest Co-host, Gopi Pillai!

    Normalizing conversations about our bodies and sexuality can lead to healthier relationships and a sense of empowerment. - Gopi Pillai

    I am thrilled to have Gopi Pillai join me this week as WeSTAT's very first guest co-host! And together, we are wondering, are you aware of how your body moves and holds itself? Join us as we dive into the importance of body awareness and why we should definitely be talking about our vaginas a lot more. 

    We also cover a seldom-discussed topic: vaginismus in teenagers. And we recount a journey of one of us seeking help for her daughter diagnosed with this condition. We underscore the essential role a pelvic health physical therapist can play and discuss the rising acknowledgment of this specialty thanks to social media. 

    Finally, we probe into the declining rates of sexual activity among younger generations. With an open and honest tone, we weigh in on the potential factors at play - from anxiety and depression to excessive device usage and sleep deprivation. We share real-life stories of patients overcoming sexual pain, shedding light on the transformative impact on their relationships. As we wrap up the episode, we begin discussing our Thanksgiving plans, bringing a light-hearted conclusion to our conversation. Don’t miss out on this insightful and deeply personal dialogue - it's a mix of invaluable knowledge and heartening personal stories.

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usDecember 04, 2023

    Strength Training 101: How to Start and Succeed with Alyssa Ages

    Strength Training 101: How to Start and Succeed with Alyssa Ages

    Have you ever doubted your own physical abilities? Believed that you were simply not cut out for sports or fitness? Well, let me share a story that will challenge your perceptions. Meet Alyssa, a woman who thought she lacked natural athletic talent, only to discover an unexpected twist that changed her life forever. This twist led her down a path of self-discovery, strength training, and ultimately, the realization that our bodies are capable of so much more than we could ever imagine. Curious to know what happened next? Keep listening, because this story is bound to inspire and leave you with a burning desire to unleash your own hidden strength.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Gain the mental and physical empowerment you've been seeking through strength training.
    • Overcome intimidation and become confident in your strength training journey.
    • Learn how to get started with strength training and build a personalized routine that works for you.
    • Discover the benefits of bodyweight exercises and how they can help you build strength.
    • Explore the mindset and community surrounding strength training competitions and how they can enhance your fitness journey.

    My special guest is Alyssa Ages

    Alyssa Ages is a journalist and fitness expert whose work has appeared in GQ, Self, Men's Health, Parents, and other publications. She is currently the fitness columnist for The Globe and Mail, Canada's preeminent daily newspaper. With a background in competitive strength training and endurance sports, Alyssa brings a unique perspective to the world of fitness. Her journey from self-doubt to discovering her true physical capabilities has inspired many, and her book Secrets of Giants delves into the true meaning of strength. Alyssa's passion for pushing boundaries and challenging herself is evident in her approach to fitness. As a guest on "We Should Talk About That," she shares her insights and experiences, offering valuable knowledge and motivation for beginners looking to start their own strength training journey.

    Buy the book here:
    Secrets of Giants


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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usNovember 27, 2023

    Understanding Autism: A Teenager's Journey Towards Embracing Neurodivergence

    Understanding Autism: A Teenager's Journey Towards Embracing Neurodivergence

    Happy Thanksgiving!
    This week I'm doing a cross promotion with my other podcast, Neuroversity and featuring a very special episode.

    Join me as I have a conversation with the most important autistic voice you will ever hear on this podcast, my daughter Grace. 

    This is not an inspirational story. 
    This is not a sad story. 
    This is Grace's story.   
    How she remembers finding out she's autistic.   
    How she sees herself as a neurodivergent teenager.  How she feels about this podcast, and what she is looking forward to in her future. 

    One story. 
    One autistic experience. 
    And I've never been more proud to put it out into the world.  Because one story can change everything.  Just like she has forever changed me.

    About the Guest:
    Grace Kidwell is a 15 year old freshman from Alexandria, VA.  She is a member of her school dance team, loves to read, wishes she could travel more, and adores her dog Derby. 

    Follow Neuroversity for more content focused on elevating neurodivergent voices and experiences.  

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usNovember 20, 2023

    How Teens Are Falling Victim to Financial Sextortion

    How Teens Are Falling Victim to Financial Sextortion

    ***This episode briefly discusses suicide.  If you or anyone you know needs support, Help is available 24 hours a day at the suicide and crisis lifeline by dialing 988
    https://988lifeline.org/

    Join journalist and professor Chris Moody as he shares his alarming findings on sextortion  scams that are victimizing thousands of teenage boys. Chris does an exceptional job illuminating the grim reality of these scams, the platforms they're most prevalent on, and how governments are responding. Most importantly, he underscores the urgent need for open dialogues with our children to help them navigate through this potential minefield.

    This conversation is not only illuminating but also an urgent call to action for all parents and guardians to ensure the safety of their children in the digital world.

    About Chris Moody:
    Chris Moody is a freelance writer for The Washington Post and a lecturer in journalism and media at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. He is a former senior political reporter for CNN. His work has appeared in The New York Times, Outside, The New Republic and more.

    Resources from the episode:

    Washington Post Article by Chris Moody

    National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cyber Tip Line

    Snap Research About Gen Z and Extortion

    "Take it Down" Assistance

    Thorn

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usNovember 13, 2023

    Asa Merritt: Breaking the Silence on Suicide and the Making of "Six Sermons"

    Asa Merritt: Breaking the Silence on Suicide and the Making of "Six Sermons"

    This episode of We Should Talk About That focuses on an important but difficult topic - suicide prevention and awareness.
     
    ***Help is available 24 hours a day at the suicide and crisis lifeline by dialing 988
    https://988lifeline.org/

    Jessica Kidwell interviews writer ASA Merritt about his audio fiction story,  "Six Sermons", which explores a church community's response to their pastor's suicide.
    They have a thoughtful discussion about the complex reasons behind suicide, the desire to make sense of it, and the role that fiction portrayed sensitively can play in creating space for honest conversations. Through personal stories and insights from experts, they model openness, compassion and harm reduction strategies for listeners who may be struggling.

    Resources for support:
    Help is available 24 hours a day at the suicide and crisis lifeline by dialing 988
    https://988lifeline.org/

    About Asa Merritt:
    A former international reporter for NPR, VICE Sports, The Guardian, and ESPN’s “30 for 30” podcast, Asa brings a compassionate documentary eye to ambitious fictional projects. His one-woman play about mass movements, True Believer, had a sold-out run in New York City. To research that piece, Asa traveled to Cairo to meet with underground performers who helped ignite the Arab Spring. For his new Audible original podcast Six Sermons, starring Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All At Once), Asa spent a month embedded with a team of pastors at a Lutheran church in Cincinnati, OH. Six Sermons is dedicated to the actor and musician Caz Liske, who died by suicide in Moscow in 2017. Asa lives with his family in Mexico City.

    Listen to "Six Sermons" here

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usNovember 06, 2023

    Exploring Anti-Aging Options with Dr. Carolyn Chang

    Exploring Anti-Aging Options with Dr. Carolyn Chang

    Would you like to age gracefully and understand the influences that societal judgment and cultural pressures have on beauty and cosmetics?

    In this episode of "We Should Talk About That," host Jessica Kidwell engages in a conversation about anti-aging and aging gracefully with Dr. Carolyn Chang, an aesthetic plastic surgeon and vice chairman of plastic surgery at California Pacific Medical Center. Dr. Chang shares her expertise and educates listeners on fighting the natural signs of aging while emphasizing the importance of natural results. The discussion also touches on the concept of anti-anti-aging. Tune in to gain insights and explore the possibilities of embracing the aging process.

    More About Dr. Carolyn Change:
    Dr. Carolyn Chang is a San Francisco aesthetic plastic surgeon and Vice Chairman of plastic surgery at California Pacific Medical Center. She is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She is also a member of the Communications Committee for the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dr. Chang graduated with a Bachelor of Science with honors from Stanford University and received the Deans Award for Excellence in Clinical Medicine at Stanford University Medical School. She did her general surgery and plastic surgery training at Stanford University Medical Center. She completed an additional advanced surgical fellowship at New York University, and a second year of further specialization under the guidance of Dr. John Q. Owsley, one of the pioneers of the modern SMAS facelift. Dr Chang is an invited lecturer both locally and nationally on a wide range of topics in the field of aesthetic surgery. She is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and is committed to the betterment of her community through her active philanthropic involvement and as a patron of the arts. Dr. Chang lives in San Francisco with her husband Patrick and their children, James and Jemma.
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynchangmd/
    LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-chang-83106526/

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usOctober 30, 2023

    Author Ana Homayoun on her Latest Book, "Erasing the Finish Line: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades and College Admission"

    Author Ana Homayoun on her Latest Book, "Erasing the Finish Line: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades and College Admission"

    Feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of preparing your children for college applications? Join me and my guest, early career development expert Ana Homayoun, as we navigate this daunting journey. I share my own struggle with the pressure, and Ana provides me with invaluable insight and perspective on the fallacy of "finish lines".

    With Ana's guidance, we explore the importance of executive functioning skills, systems, connections, perspective, and acceptance in shaping our definition.

    It's time to challenge ourselves to redefine success beyond the traditional concept of grades and college admissions.

    Find out more about my guest, Ana Homayoun:
    https://anahomayoun.com/
    https://anahomayoun.com/erasing-the-finish-line/

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usOctober 23, 2023

    How to be more like Abe Lincoln, with Jonathan Shapiro

    How to be more like Abe Lincoln, with Jonathan Shapiro

    The key to living a legendary life is to strive to be more like Abe Lincoln.  At least, that is what my guest this week, Jonathan Shapiro, says is the key.  Join us for a conversation  about the principles of the great Abraham Lincoln, and how following seven steps can help us all lead a more extraordinary life.

    We talk about stoicism, storytelling, humor, river raft rides, the heart of American culture, and the importance of love.  All of which lead us to look at how Abraham Lincoln, perhaps our greatest President of all time, built a blueprint that might save the soul of America.

    Jonathan Shapiro has written and produced some of television’s most iconic legal dramas, including HBO’s The Undoing, Amazon Prime’s Goliath, and NBC Peacock’s The Calling. An Emmy and Humanitas Award-winner, Shapiro’s other television credits include Peacock’s Mr. Mercedes, based on the Stephen King novels, NBC’s series The Blacklist, FOX’s Justice, NBC’s Life, and the ABC series Boston Legal, The Practice, and Big Sky. His first play, Sisters in Law, premiered in 2019. He is the author of three books, including the novel Deadly Force (2015), and the memoir Lawyers, Liars, and the Art of Storytelling (2014). He is currently an adjunct law professor at the UCLA School of Law. Prior to becoming a writer, Shapiro practiced law for 12 years in the U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division, as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, and of counsel at Kirkland & Ellis. A graduate of the University of California Berkeley School of Law, he earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in history from Harvard University and was a Rhodes Scholar at Oriel College, Oxford University.

    To buy his latest book:
    How to Be Abe Lincoln: Seven Steps to Leading a Legendary Life

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usOctober 16, 2023

    A Critical Conversation on Campus Sexual Assault and Recovery

    A Critical Conversation on Campus Sexual Assault and Recovery

    Did you know:

    • 1 in 5 women will be sexually assaulted while in college or graduate school
    • 6% of men will be sexually assaulted while in college or graduate school
    • 90% of sexual assaults on college campuses go unreported.
    • More than 50% of college sexual assaults occur in either August, September, October, or November.  This is called the "Red Zone" 

    In the latest episode, I have a deeply personal and tough discussion with my brave guest, Anne, who unveils her own experience of sexual assault in college. The goal is to shed light on the emotional aftermath of such incidents, often unspoken, which includes anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

    Also joining in the conversation is private investigator, Sally Tierney.  Sally aided Anne in discovering the identity of her attacker and has helped many other clients gain control of their experiences.

    This is a difficult, but necessary conversation and I hope you will join us.
    This is not just an episode, but a testament to the resilience of survivors and the strength of those who stand with them.

    Resources cited throughout the episode:
    https://knowyourix.org/
    https://www.rainn.org/
    https://www.clearpathforwardpi.com/

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usOctober 09, 2023

    Turning Climate Fear into Action with Anya Kamenetz

    Turning Climate Fear into Action with Anya Kamenetz

    Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the subject of climate change?  Jessica does. 
    With  weather events and natural disasters getting more severe and seeming to creep closer and closer to her own backyard, Jessica feels overwhelmed, to the point of paralysis, by what one person could possibly do to effect change.

    Enter Anya Kamenetz, who writes the newsletter The Golden Hour about thriving, and raising thriving kids, on a changing planet.  She covered education for many years including for NPR, where she co-created the podcast Life Kit: Parenting. Her 5th book is The Stolen Year: How Covid Changed Children’s Lives, And Where We Go Now. Kamenetz is currently an advisor to the Aspen Institute and the Climate Mental Health Network, working on new initiatives at the intersection of children and climate change.

    Join Jessica and Anya as they candidly address the politicization of climate change, its isolating consequences, and the urgent call to recognize it as a human issue, not just an environmental one. Anya shines a light on our potential to be part of the solution, turning fear into action.  And may have even helped Jessica feel a little less paralyzed and a lot more purpose filled.

    Important Links from this episode:
    Anya's Newsletter
    https://thegoldenhour.substack.com/

    More Information on Joanna Macy
    https://www.joannamacy.net/main

    All We Can Save Project
    https://www.allwecansave.earth/

    Climate Mental Health Network
    https://www.climatementalhealth.net/

    Climate Mobilization
    https://www.theclimatemobilization.org/

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usOctober 02, 2023

    Embracing Evolution: The Start of Season Five

    Embracing Evolution: The Start of Season Five

    Join Jessica Kidwell as she embraces the messy, exciting, and continuous process of growth in the new season of "We Should Talk About That". She'll be sharing her own experiences and thoughts on starting this fresh chapter, her comfort in the transitional phases, and her intrigue with evolution - a process that beautifully mirrors the metamorphosis of the podcast, our lives, and the world at large.

    Here's a promise - this podcast is going to be interactive! The latter half of the episode is a cordial invitation for all of you to be part of the dialogue. So, buckle up and get ready to ignite conversations, build connections, and explore a myriad of riveting subjects in this evolving journey of our podcast. Let's get talking, shall we?

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    We Should Talk About That
    en-usSeptember 25, 2023