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We Need To Talk About This

Author: Shanelle Hall, Jean Ahlefeldt-Laurvig

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We bring our shared passion for humanity and diverse backgrounds to hot topics that society is discussing in Denmark, the U.S., and across the world. We want to contribute to healthy discourse on issues that are shaping us. Shanelle is a former Deputy Executive Director at UNICEF and Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations where she spent two decades leading humanitarian efforts and working in dozens of countries including some of the most complex. She founded the Yellow House in 2019 to accelerate organisations' positive impact on humanity. She has been a Council Member of the World Economic Forum Artificial Intelligence Council, Board Member of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and The Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB & Malaria, and is a guest lecturer on Business & Social Impact at the London School of Economics. She is an American living in Denmark … raising her Danish dog together with her partner. Jean has a long career in public affairs and communications and is currently leading Environment-Social-Governance (ESG) at a property investment firm. She returned to Copenhagen after spending seven years in London where she was in on the early years of impact investing. Jean is deft in driving sustainable change and brings her African-Danish perspectives to equitable and productive partnerships. She’s advised various organizations including Kjaer Global, DC Finance and Windrush Equestrian. Jean adores her wonderful two teenage girls ... and American politics. Follow the podcast on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/weneedtotalkabout_this/Jean :https://www.instagram.com/jeanahlefeldtlaurvig/ Shanelle: https://www.instagram.com/shanellehall/
26 Episodes
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In this two part episode, we talk with two young people about the juxtaposition of the mental health crisis of young people -- and -- the pervasive role of social media in young people's lives. Sara Lund (age 18) and Ingrid Ahlefeldt-Laurvig (age 17) share their views and experiences with FOMO, self-image, being united with others, and parenting -- among many other things.  If you are a young person you might find their insights heartening.  If you are an older person or a parent of young people, it's an important listen.  It shifted some of our views. It also gave us hope and excitement about the future. Something we all need!Chapters in part 2:- The positives of social media- Views on different platforms- The maturing impact of social media- What makes Ingrid and Sara worried about the future?- What makes Sara and Ingrid hopeful about the future?- What do they want from adults?
In this two part episode, we talk with two young people about the juxtaposition of the mental health crisis of young people -- and -- the pervasive role of social media in young people's lives. Sara Lund (age 18) and Ingrid Ahlefeldt-Laurvig (age 17) share their views and experiences with FOMO, self-image, being united with others, and parenting -- among many other things.  If you are a young person you might find their insights heartening.  If you are an older person or a parent of young people, it's an important listen.  It shifted some of our views. It also gave us hope and excitement about the future. Something we all need!Chapters in part 1 : - Self-image- Discerning truth and trolls- Being (too) quick to judge- How Ingrid and Sara would parent a 10 yr old girl- Should there be age-appropriate bans on social media
Reflections on 2022!

Reflections on 2022!

2023-01-0156:08

Alas, 2022 is coming to a close, and what would the WNTTAT podcast be if we didn't talk about it?! In this episode we share our reflections on what we feel defined society at the macro level in 2022 - as well as what defined each of our years on a personal, micro level. We both share two reflections on each ... some of it may surprise you!  Check out the chapters if you want to jump around. Personal reflections: ShanellePersonal reflections: JeanSocietal/Macro reflections: JeanSocietal/Macro reflections: ShanelleWishes for 2023 AND,THANKS TO ALL OF OUR PODCAST FRIENDS FOR 2022!You listened from 281 cities in 36 countries across 5 continents.  We are humbled. Thank you for joining us on this new journey. We are grateful beyond words and look forward to be back in touch with a new plan and ideas for next year. TAKE CARE. HEALTH & LOVE.Jean & Shanelle
In part two of this incredible conversation with Mogens Lykketoft, we dive into the current economic situation in Europe with steep rises in utility costs and looming recession. We also talk about the dynamic shift underway with the European Union as well as climate change - both heavily impacted by Putin's war.Mogens was Denmark's Foreign Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of Tax. He was candidate for Prime Minister of Denmark as Head of the Social Democratic Party. He was also President of the UN General Assembly - and presided over the negotiations of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. Author, commentator, father, grandfather,  husband and friend - we learned so much and CANNOT WAIT for you to listen to this as well. This is not about specific candidates or policies - but about political systems themselves. THANK YOU MOGENS!!!https://lykketoft.dk/
Buckle-up - we have the most amazing guest with us on a two part series.  Elections are before us and who better to talk through the differences between the political systems of Denmark, US and other countries - than statesman Mogens Lykketoft. Mogens was Denmark's Foreign Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of Tax. He was candidate for Prime Minister of Denmark as Head of the Social Democratic Party. He was also President of the UN General Assembly - and presided over the negotiations of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. Author, commentator, father, grandfather,  husband and friend - we learned so much and CANNOT WAIT for you to listen to this as well.  This is not about specific candidates or policies - but about political systems themselves.  THANK YOU MOGENS!!! https://lykketoft.dk/
Popcorn ...

Popcorn ...

2022-10-0646:57

Popcorn? So ... in this episode we're sharing some kernels (touché) of what caught our attention over the past week via the podcasts we listen to, the you tube channels we watch, and what we've read. We briefly touch on many topics - from unkind political tactics, to musicology, to our least-favorite trending influencer, to intergenerational friendships, to coming back after being cancelled, and more.  Aaah go ahead ... enjoy some warm, freshly popped popcorn with this episode (& that's a wrap on all popcorn references).Below are links to the shows we mention:Podcasts: We Can Do Hard Things http://wecandohardthingspodcast.com/Switched On Pop https://switchedonpop.com/All There Is https://www.cnn.com/audio/podcasts/all-there-is-with-anderson-cooperPivot https://podcasts.voxmedia.com/show/pivotOn https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coming-soon-on-with-kara-swisher/id1643307527?i=1000578252921
Aging - Part 2

Aging - Part 2

2022-09-2952:18

In Part 2 of our episode on Aging, we talk about menopause -- should we dread it or is it actually the start of the best phase of life? We unexpectedly discuss age taken to the nth degree - death ... and then we take a self-critical look at how societies treat their older age people. We end the two part series by sharing our personal vision for old age - if we are so privileged to make it to such. We hope these episodes help you reflect on positive decisions you can take to age-proof your life AND to show care to others. 
Aging - Part 1

Aging - Part 1

2022-09-2942:42

In Part 1 of our episode on Aging, we start off by debating the different phases of life - and the different ways of framing them.  Which decade milestone was more disturbing - turning 40, 50 or was it 30?  Laugher is such an important part of aging well, but are we good at experiencing joy?   We discuss the difference between chronological age and physiological age and end Part 1 with of course .... talking about the visual signs of aging. Which one of us is more open to try botox do you think?Well, as middle age women, we share a few of the topics that cross our mind - and hope they help you look forward to your future!
Author, journalist and commentator - we are delighted to have Mette Holm join us for a two part episode.Mette has authored some 15 books including: China – from Empire to Capitalism,  The Mekong River – Mother of Waters, 1990: Letters from the East Block, and,  1989: Diary from Beijing.Mette lived, studied, travelled & worked in China and the neighbouring countries since the early 1980's. She covered countless things Asian for several major media over the years. Her expertise spans Asian politics, culture, human rights, the UN, and more. In Part 2 of our episode with Mette Holm, we start out by diving into the impact that Putin has had on societies across the world. And then, it gets a bit more personal. Mette shares her father's story: his Thai origin, involvement in the WW2 resistance, and assimilation in Denmark.  Mette ends the episode by briefly sharing the impact of a cancer diagnosis she received in 2006. There is so much depth and wisdom to this women - and a lot of joy. We hope to have her back on WNTTAT again so we can glean even more from her.Remember you can use the chapters to jump to different topics. For Mette's full CV, videos, articles and photos, go to: https://metteholm.com/
Author, journalist and commentator - we are delighted to have Mette Holm join us for a two part episode. Mette has authored some 15 books including: China – from Empire to Capitalism,  The Mekong River – Mother of Waters, 1990: Letters from the East Block, and 1989: Diary from Beijing.Mette studied, lived, travelled & worked in China and the neighbouring countries since the early 1980's. She covered countless things Asian for several major media over the years. Her expertise spans Asian politics, culture, human rights, the UN, and more. In this 1st episode we dive straight into China. Can there be a more important geopolitical topic at the moment? We hear what brought Mette to China and her early experience in journalism. Then we move to the current situation. You'll hear us critique, wonder and reflect.  It was exhilarating to speak with expert Mette, who so openly shares her story and views.  Remember you can use the chapters to jump to different topics. Mette's take on Pelosi's visit to Taiwan starts at 17:30.For her full CV, videos, articles and photos, go to: https://metteholm.com/P.s. In the episode Mette refers to Svalbard - and in English, this is Spitzbergen.
This week's episode is the most downloaded episode from "We need to talk about this" to date.Shanelle tells her story about being diagnosed with Adenomyosis 20 years too late. The fact that 1 in 5 women is estimated to have Adenomyosis and that this condition often goes undiagnosed, indicates that we need to pay attention to the symptoms for ourselves and our daughters. Listen in to find out what it is and why it matters. Note: we are not medical doctors - please consult yours and find a women's health resource near you for more information. 
Being biracial is beautiful. But what is it like in a society that blends nationality with ethnicity? This was one of our first episodes and we decided to re-upload it as we think you'll love it. Hearing people's story is a powerful way to increase our understanding - so listen in! *** Jean talks about what it was like growing up bi-racial in Denmark in the 70's and 80's. She speaks openly and lovingly about her experiences. If you are bi-racial in Denmark - take heart. If you aren't, we hope you’ll be curious and listen in. 
Grateful for women and friendship - we talk about both in this two part episode.  Though especially friendship, since it is how our celebration of women is often realised.  We talk through  complexities like judgment, vulnerability, betrayal, showing-up, and conditionality. You might be surprised by our take on these topics. In Part 2 we talk about:- Suffering and compassion- Boundaries ... or not- Ebbs and Flows of friendship- Betrayal- Conditionality - when is it too muchCheck out the chapters below.
Grateful for women and friendship - we talk about both in this two part episode.  Especially friendship though, since it is how our celebration of women is often realised.  We talk through  complexities  like judgment, vulnerability, betrayal, showing-up, and conditionality. You might be surprised by our take on these topics. In Part 1 we talk about:- Our admiration of women- The purpose and pain of judgment- Friends who are a witness to our lives- The power of vulnerability- And, what it looks like to show up as a friendCheck out the chapters below.
We have the deep honour of facilitating a conversation between an adoptive mother, Camlynn Blumenthal, and an adopted daughter, Chanda Kornbek Meyer. Not related, Chanda and Cami talk about their experiences as a daughter and a mother. They share the impact of international transracial adoption on their lives -  intimate and vulnerable details.Every adoption experience is unique, and there are important universal understandings.The conversation in split into two episodes. In this second episode, the conversation goes even deeper.  Cami and Chanda talk about the beauty, the burdens and the many layers to transracial adoption. At one point they forget we are recording as they support each other's stories. It is beautiful and very moving. We are so so grateful to Chanda and Cami for daring to tell their stories - so we can learn.  We think it's an act of love. Please join us in supporting @RootsEthiopia - the NGO we refer to in the podcast. Roots Ethiopia works with communities in Ethiopia to turn local ideas into lasting change. They improve schools, educate children, and enable livelihoods. https://rootsethiopia.org/
We have the deep honour of facilitating a conversation between an adoptive mother, Camlynn Blumenthal, and an adopted daughter, Chanda Kornbek Meyer. Not related, Chanda and Cami talk about their experiences as a daughter and a mother. They share the impact of international transracial adoption on their lives -  intimate and vulnerable details. Every adoption experience is unique, and there are important universal understandings. The conversation in split into two episodes. In this first episode we get to know Cami and Chanda. We hear their story, perspectives on common misunderstandings about adoption, and important aspects of the transracial experience. We are so so grateful to Chanda and Cami for daring to tell their stories - so we can learn.  We think it's an act of love. Please join us in supporting @RootsEthiopia - the NGO we refer to in the podcast. Roots Ethiopia works with communities in Ethiopia to turn local ideas into lasting change. They improve schools, educate children, and enable livelihoods. https://rootsethiopia.org/
Ever wonder what the life of a professional ballet dancer is like?  Kristoffer Dahl Sakurai was a Principal Dancer for the Royal Danish Ballet from 2005-2011.  Being half Danish and half Japanese, Kristoffer broke racial barriers in the ballet.  By virtue of his very being, he has made fighting bias and racism a part of his daily life.  He is well researched on these issues -- we learn a bit of history and the wonderful change afoot.  Listen in to hear how he gracefully brings these different parts of life together. 
A case of injustice

A case of injustice

2022-07-0729:30

In this episode we talk about the case of two parents who are falsely convicted of female genital cutting (FGC). After serving time in prison and thanks to investigative journalist Frederik Hugo Ledegaard, the truth comes to surface.  Jean explains the case and we discuss  the likely bias that led to this injustice. We want to amplify this family’s story to help them be exonerated and compensated. We also want to help reduce bias in future cases. We also ask - why doesn’t this injustice receive an outcry from society? Why doesn’t the media cover it? Full investigation can be heard on  the podcast  Det Levende Bevis:https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/det-levende-bevis/id1630083728For more info on FGC:https://www.orchidproject.org/https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-protection/female-genital-mutilation/
Most people have a strongly held conviction on abortion. It tends to be on one side of the issue or the other: pro-choice or anti-abortion (or pick your phrasing). The reality of this world is that there is much more to it than two sides. Join us as we dive into the messy middle. It’s hard. We don’t have the answers. Except that we think polarizing each other isn’t it. •Sending hope for open hearts and minds, as you listen.•The decision issued by SCOTUS to overturn Roe v. Wade has reverberating effect. We find ourselves discussing the complexity around abortion: the legal, ethical, and religious motivations. Plus how the decision primarily impacts the poor and marginalised.  We also speculate about the impact of a decision that overreached the question actually posed to the court .... and whether it compromised the separation of church and state.  At the end of the episode, we share our wishes for what's next.  
Political correctness

Political correctness

2022-06-2251:07

It's the phrase everyone knows, but no one wants to talk about. Well, we dare to dive in.  We unpack what being politically correct means and how it is experienced so differently. We segue to cancel culture (and talk through a few famous examples), representation (in film and business) and woke culture.  Is all of it a form of love and inclusiveness or are people being too sensitive? Political correctness is an important and unavoidable aspect to our societies ... don't miss this episode!  It's such a dynamic topic, we are already working on Part 2! 
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