We Should Talk About That

Did you know that the  six most common complaints about the sound of a women's voice are:Their voice is too highThey sound like childrenThey don't sound authoritative enoughThey have vocal fryThey use too much upspeakTheir voice is too lowFor a woman who wants to speak up publicly, it can start to feel like we are damned if we do, and damned if we don't.  This week I had the opportunity to talk to Christine Adam, an international voice, accent and communication skills coach, about why women's voices are more critically received when they speak up in public.  It was a fascinating AND frustrating conversation.I hope you'll listen!Guest Bio:Christine Adam is an international voice, accent and communication skills coach. She works with clients on vocal presence, power, range and expressivity, body language in communication, compassionate listening and managing performance anxiety. Her clients range from actors to business professionals, activists, teachers and anyone who is curious about becoming a more effective and empowered communicator. Through her company, Voice what Matters, Christine offers private coaching programs, bespoke workshops and digital courses, as well as a podcast and a YouTube channel.  Christine has an MFA in Voice Studies from the Royal Central School of Drama in London. She is a certified Fitzmaurice Voicework(r) teacher and Organic Intelligence(r) coach. She is also a States-based Communication coach for RADA Business, based in London.Resources Cited:Mary Beard Article  "The Long Tradition of Women Being Told to Shut Up"Selena Simmons-Duffin "Talking While Female"Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

I am a proud voting American.  From local, national, primary, or general, I never miss my opportunity to participate in my civic duty and cherished right to vote.  I love the process of going to my polling precinct and casting my ballot.  I slap that sticker on my chest and walk around all day with pride, knowing that instead of choosing to do nothing, I chose to vote.  And I believe, that my vote is counted.  It may not win, but it is always counted.But I am aware that I may be in the minority who believes that my vote is counted.In January 2024, Data for Progress found that 43% of likely voters are either not confident at all or only a little confident in the security of elections.  That percentage rises to 50% if you only look at registered Independents and rises to 69% if you only look at registered Republicans.That is a lot of Americans who do not trust the security of our elections!  I wanted to learn more about the election process.  To see if there is a reason to not trust the system, or to see if this growing mistrust is fueled by misinformation.  My guest this week is Tate Fall, Director of Elections for Cobb County Georgia.  She guides me through the history and process of administering elections, shares how much elections have changed through the years, and dispels some of the most common myths about voter fraud.  This is a conversation you are not going to want to miss.Tate Fall currently serves as the Director of Elections for Cobb County. She has previously served as the Deputy Director of Elections for Arlington County, VA, a Communications Specialist for the United States Election Assistance Commission (EAC), and as a Voting Rights Advocate for Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program. Tate has her B.S. in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies, a Master of Public Administration and a Graduate Certificate in Election Administration all from Auburn University. Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

We should talk about Tik Tok.  As a Gen X-er, I cling to my Facebook and I feel fancy that I consistently use Instagram.  But if I'm being honest, I know that this makes me basically an elderly user of social media apps.  YouTube and Tik Tok are the social media apps where Gen Z and Gen Alpha are spending the majority of their time.  So, what's an "Insta-Grandma" to do to try and stay au courant on the trends?Enter my guest, Pamela Wurst Vetrini.Pamela is a content creator, content curator, and social media consultant. Vetrini gained a following of over 150,000 followers by translating tik tok trends for an elder millennial audience. After working in marketing and PR in publishing in NYC, she decided to focus on learning how to use social media during her time as a stay at home mom. Vetrini's greatest viral success came in the summer of 2023 when she curated a reality tv "season" of private chefs in the Hamptons from existing tik tok content. https://www.instagram.com/pamelawurstvetrini/https://www.tiktok.com/@pamelawurstvetriniJoin us for a discussion on why Tik Tok isn't evil, and what has been trending on the app for March 2024.Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

Join Jessica and her pop culture guest of the week, Joey Klei, as they discuss the pop culture topics that are front of mind for them. Where is Princess Catherine? ***Big correction!! Jessica says MULTIPLE times that the timeline starts 12/23/23, but it really was 12/28/23.  In her excitement, she got the date wrong, a lot.  This is why she is not running for President.Joey reviews the Apple Vision Pro glassesWe should talk about the OscarsDo 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!Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

"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.Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

“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, MineTeenage 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-stDr. 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=40992969556002Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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.Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 seriesHear the process of putting an anthology project together with 18 other authorsTalk about the fear that keeps women from telling their storiesDiscuss why that fear must be faced and MORE stories need to be sharedThis 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 hereFind out more about Soul Speak PressSupport the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 bookFor support and resources:Hour Children Survived and PunishedSanctuary for FamiliesCriminalized Survivors ReportSupport the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 GlobesJoy 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!Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

When women have good information, they make good choices. - Dr. Lauren StreicherDiscover 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 ScanlonAs 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 Podcasthttps://dothepot.com/podcast-series/menopause-101/Dr. Lauren Streicher Podcasthttps://www.drstreicher.com/podcastNew York Times Article:Menopause is Having a MomentNAMS (North American Menopause Society)https://menopause.org/https://nationalmenopausefoundation.org/WeSTAT Interview with Claire Gill, Founder of The National Menopause Foundationlhttps://www.westatpod.com/episodes/episode/4af1867f/collaborating-with-menopause-and-feeling-at-the-top-of-your-game-with-national-menopause-foundation-founder-claire-gillSupport the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 ReedUncover 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 ReedKori 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/Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 RivieraIf 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.Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

Normalizing conversations about our bodies and sexuality can lead to healthier relationships and a sense of empowerment. - Gopi PillaiI 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.Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 AgesAlyssa 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 GiantsSupport the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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.  Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

***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 988https://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 MoodyNational Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cyber Tip LineSnap Research About Gen Z and Extortion"Take it Down" Assistance ThornSupport the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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 988https://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 988https://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" hereSupport the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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/Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

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/Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new