Women Transcend

The Guilt of Motherhood Jan 08, 2018

In this honest discussion with Dr. LaKesha Anderson of the National Communication Association about societal expectations of mothers, and self-imposed expectations about what mothers would like to be for their children, we talk about how it is very difficult to live up to either of these expectations. As a result, a nearly inevitable part of motherhood is taking on a certain amount of guilt about the difference between what is ideal in your mind versus what is possible in our busy lives. We discuss the importance of giving ourselves the permission to not be perfect. We need to all acknowledge that we are doing the best we can for the most part, and taking on and carrying the burden of guilt is not helpful in being an effective parent or mother.

Should Girls Wake Up Pretty? Girls & Media Ideals Dec 18, 2017

In this episode we have a critical and revealing discussion about media messaging to young girls, and how divergent the messaging to girls is both from reality and from what is healthy. We use the example of a magazine cover targeting young girls to critically discuss the current messaging as opposed to what would be ideal, healthy or inspirational for girls. I discuss the messages given to girls with the graphic artist Katherine Young. She is the artist who made a fascinating magazine cover showing what we should be telling our girls, juxtaposed against what modern media and magazines are telling our girls. Her remarkable comparison was circulated widely and drew a lot of attention to media messaging, beauty ideals, and differing standards for media targeting girls as opposed to media targeting boys.

Harassment and Women in Tech Dec 12, 2017

At a time when we are becoming more acutely aware of the level of harassment endemic in American businesses, government, and the entertainment industry, we must pay particular attention to women working in technology fields. Some new research conducted by the non-profit organization Women Who Tech, revealed the full story of the level of harassment which is going on in tech industry. We need to encourage more women to enter technology fields, and play a part in the rapid growth and cutting edge developments. Women have something to add to this industry. But it is difficult for women to break into the field, and then to stay in the field because of an often hostile work environment as well as rather significant levels of sexual harassment. Because of the "brogrammer" atmosphere, women are being left out of this sector of the economy and limited in their potential for professional growth. Listen to our discussion with Justyn Hintze from Women Who Tech as we discussed their research on women in tech and the shocking level of harassment they face.

Bravely: Trafficking & Trauma Survivors Dec 04, 2017

If you are interested in or concerned about human trafficking, this episode is a must listen. We are hearing more and more about human trafficking in the United States, including warning signs and who to contact if you suspect trafficking. What we do NOT hear about is what happens to women who have been trafficked and are able to move on from this imposed life. They escape sometimes with little more than their lives. A large number of the women suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and often have co-occurring substance dependence. But we don't hear about the survivors and what they have to go through to rebuild their lives. Why is that?

In this episode we have a powerful discussion with Hope Jernagan, the Executive Director of Magdalene of St. Louis, and the Bravely company. We also hear the empowering story of recovery from Anika, who is a resident of Magdalene and an employee of Bravely. Our discussion with these two amazing women highlights the array of services that can successfully help women onto the path of recovery and support them as they get back on their feet, and as they use their recovery experience to help other women as well.

Modern Trends in Childbirth Nov 27, 2017

I have a fascinating conversation with Pat Keating, a registered nurse and childbirth educator, about the trends she has seen over the last 37 years around childbirth, breastfeeding, and preparing for a baby. We discuss how women and couples prepare for a baby, through childbirth education, birth planning, and internet resources. About half of pregnancies in the United States are not planned, and we discuss how the optimal situation would allow women to begin thinking about their reproductive health plan far in advance of a pregnancy to prepare physically, emotionally, and financially for a baby.

Sexual Abuse and Insufficient Labels Nov 20, 2017

Listen to our eye opening discussion on the rhetoric and language around women who have experienced sexual abuse. We specifically discuss the dichotomy of the labels "victim" versus "survivor" and how these terms are insufficient to describe the experience of many women who have experienced sexual abuse. We also acknowledge the implicit values attached to these labels and what that means to the women as they process the experience and try to move on. In researcher Rebecca Murphy-Keith's research, she uncovered a third term which some women preferred to use: thriver. Listen to us discuss the idea of post-trauma growth and overcoming.

Fertility, Technology, & Acknowledging Grief Part 2 Nov 13, 2017

In the second part of this two part series, we continue our discussion with reproductive psychologist Dr. Julie Bindeman. We examine the issue of fertility and chasing parenthood. We review the current technology and options available to couples who desire to have a child, and very importantly, the psychological impact that is associated with difficulty in conceiving a child without intervention. We go in depth in our discussion of the role of technology and fertility, and the moral and ethical dilemmas that come with advanced reproductive technologies to assist couples. Often the inability to conceive is a grief that is not shared beyond the couple, sometimes because of a stigma associated with infertility, and a grief the depth of which is not fully appreciated.

Fertility, Technology, & Acknowledging Grief Part 1 Nov 06, 2017

In this important discussion with reproductive psychologist Dr. Julie Bindeman, we examine the issue of fertility and chasing parenthood. We review the current technology and options available to couples who desire to have a child, and very importantly, the psychological impact that is associated with difficulty in conceiving a child without intervention. Along with advanced reproductive technologies to assist couples come some very difficult choices, and the very real possibility that efforts may be unsuccessful. Often the inability to conceive is a grief that is not shared beyond the couple, sometimes because of a stigma associated with infertility, and a grief the depth of which is not fully appreciated.

Women in Comics: Is Wonder Woman Wonderful? Oct 30, 2017

In our discussion of women characters and the portrayal of women in graphic novels, we go back and unpack the history of women in comics and early characters. We take a look at how the portrayal and story lines of women in comics have changed over time, and the contemporary women characters, as well as interest by girls and women in graphic novels. We uncover an unappreciated but potentially important aspect of graphic novels in getting young girls interested in reading. We discuss the recent Wonder Woman movie, and determine if the character is really wonderful, especially for women and girls.

Harassment and a Smile: Conversation with Actor Rebecca Blaine Carton Oct 23, 2017

I have a discussion with the incredibly talented Rebecca Blaine Carton about her independent short on harassment and catcalling, Smile. We talk about how this is an almost universal experience for women and girls, and how it is very difficult to avoid. We discuss the sense of shared experience we sometimes feel when we see another woman being harassed or another woman is our witness, but the same sense of powerlessness. These catcalls and harassment can often cross the boundary into feeling unsafe or even threatened.

Rebecca's independent short, called Smile, which was featured by Hollaback and Upworthy, takes a light-hearted look at one woman experiencing a catcall, and running through in her mind the various reactions that she could have to a man harassing her. We have an open and honest discussion about what led her to make this movie short, and the other projects that she has coming out. You won't want to miss my "behind the scenes" talk with Rebecca Blaine Carton.

Follow Rebecca Blaine Carton on Facebook @IrritableBeccaSyndrome, on Twitter @IrritableBeccaS, on Instagram @irritablebeccasyndrome, and on her YouTube channel: https://www.youtube .com/user/rebeccacarton

Trusted Sources: Sexuality Education & Our Children Oct 16, 2017

In this episode, we discuss sexuality and "the talk," that uncomfortable imparting of information about sexuality to our children. But parents need to be aware of all the sources that children are using to get their information about sexuality, and a number of other sensitive topics that they might not come to parents about. We shouldn't think our children find us to be the only source for information, because we aren't. They are bombarded with potential sources of varying qualities, most readily being their peers. Parents want information sources to be accurate, with good information and no agenda, either political or commercial. My guest, Dr. Stephanie Loomis Pappas discusses an article she posted on her blog SnackDinner in reaction to a provocative article in Teen Vogue about helping to teach children to be critical consumers of information, including information on topics like sexuality. She has some great thoughts on how to start teaching young children to know who it is they are reading so when they get old enough to Google search, they can discern information from junk.

Special Episode: Contraception, Rape & a Bad Week for Women Oct 09, 2017

In this special episode, we discuss what was a bad week for the United States after facing several back-to-back tragedies including hurricanes and a mass shooting. We focus on four important policy changes that were very quietly implemented by the Trump administration over the last week while media attention was diverted to these tragedies. All of these policy changes are relevant and important to the health, safety, and rights of women, girls, and families. All of these policy changes will be damaging in some way, whether at a large or small scale, big or small dollar amount, to women and girls. The common thread of these policies seems to be that they take away agency of women - control of one's own body and the ability to make decisions that will impact you on a deeply and intimately personal level. Listen for my informative interview with Dr. Colleen Begley, an activist and OB/GYN, as we discuss and dispel mythology around contraception and what you should be doing right now to protect yourself from the potential impact of these policies.

Foster Care: Invisible Children Oct 02, 2017

I have a powerful and raw discussion with Rob Scheer from the non-profit Comfort Cases about the foster care system. There are about 500,000 children in the foster care system at any given time in the United States. The average age of a child in the foster care system is nine years old. The majority of these children spend years in the system, not knowing from week to week, month to month, where they will end up. We discuss how the lack of stability and lack of support provided to these children gives them few options for their futures, and they move from the foster care system, to the criminal justice system in many cases.

For more information about the non-profit Comfort Cases visit: https://www.comfortcases.org/

Online Harassment: When Women Aren't Welcome Sep 26, 2017

In my discussion with Justyn Hintze from the non-profit Women Who Tech, we unpack the various forms of cyber harassment and the various platforms in which women are most likely to become victims of cyber harassment. The anonymous nature of the cyber environment can contribute to a willingness to push boundaries of appropriate behavior, sometimes becoming abusive, hateful, or even dangerous. Justyn helps debunk some myths about cyber harassment, and what you can do if you are the recipient of harassing online messages. She also offers some tips on how to protect yourself from unwelcome and often abusive exchanges in the online environment.

Parenting Girls in a Patriarchy Sep 19, 2017

In this episode, I have a fascinating discussion with psychologist Dr. Dahlia Topolosky about how to raise a healthy girl in a patriarchy. We discuss the influences of gender norms, stereotypes, and how to be an active and present parent. Dr. Topolosky talks about nature vs. nurture and what aspects of a healthy development parents can play a critical role in. Whether you have a daughter or a son, or no children at all, you will find this an enlightening listen.

Slacktivism: Are you really making a difference? Sep 12, 2017

Welcome to Season 2!

In my discussion with Mark Story, an accomplished digital communications strategist, educator, and dedicated activist for cancer research, we talk about slacktivism. Lots of people are "woke" since the election of Donald Trump. But are the activities of "the Resistance" making an impact? Are the marches, rallies, phone calls, and petitions having the impact we think or hope they are? We tackle this timely and important topic in a frank discussion about today's most popular types of activism.

RECUT: Reflections on Elections Sep 05, 2017

I discuss the tumultuous and difficult reverberations resulting from the rise in toxic masculinity, and the impact it has had on women, policy and politics with my guest, Amee Vanderpool. Amee is an attorney licensed in Washington, DC and Washington State, a writer, and the Director of the Inanna Project. She is also well known for her significant presence on Twitter as @girlsreallyrule. For more information on The Inanna Project, which advocates for equal protection under the law. Visit www.theinannaproject.org for more information or to find out how you can support their work. And listen to this episode as we discuss the full ramifications of the 2016 presidential election

Season 1 Recap - Season 2 Teasers! Sep 01, 2017

We have a conversation about Season 1, our favorite episodes and guests, and our favorite moments from the 26 episodes of Season 1. We tease our upcoming Season 2 episodes, and some of the exciting topics we will be covering. Hope you stay tuned and subscribe if you haven't already!

RECUT: Living in Conflict Zones: Women, Children & Survival Aug 28, 2017

Women and children living in conflict zones are among the most disenfranchised individuals in our world today. They subsist in the midst of violence, chaos, failed states, refugee camps, crumbling systems and destroyed infrastructure. Despite this, every day women try to hold their families together. Feed their children. Care for the young, the elderly, the sick. They give birth, and often they die during childbirth. And they are also victims.

Gender-based violence in conflict zones has become not just a reality, but a tactic of war. Women and children are the most frequent victims because of their status in society, and their gender. Wide scale and systematic rape has been deployed in many conflicts, and survivors are sometimes blamed.

In this episode I have a fascinating discussion with Annie Agle about women and children living in conflict zones, the difficulties they face, and the shocking ways they are victimized by perpetrators as well as their culture sometimes.

RECUT: Are Little Girls Getting Too Sexy? Aug 20, 2017

In this episode I have a conversation with Professor Sarah Murnen about the sexualization of young girls, and unpack the potential impact of this phenomenon on the individual girl, girls in general, and on society and how we view girls and women. We discuss the dangers of self-objectification, and fashion and beauty ideals.

Escalating Ideology of the Alt-Right Aug 13, 2017

Listen to my interview with Dr. Paul Johnson from University of Pittsburgh, an expert in studying right-wing extremism and the Alt-Right. This is a rebroadcast of an earlier episode, which is unfortunately extremely timely right now. Our discussion highlights some fascinating information about the start of the Alt-Right, what their shared ideology is, who supports it, and who has joined.

RECUT: Patriarchy, Parenting, & Boys Aug 07, 2017

This recut of one of our most popular episodes from Season 1 includes additional discussion about the issue of raising boys in a patriarchy. We discuss ways to help boy children understand structural preferences for boys and men, versus girls and women. Children have a natural tendency to identify what they perceive is "fair" and what is "unfair," and how this could be used as a way to start a discussion about gender stereotypes and equality.

RECUT: Body Image, Fat Shaming, & Loving Ourselves Jul 31, 2017

This recut of one of our most popular episodes from Season 1 includes additional discussion about the issue of body image, fat shaming, and the double standard that women and men are held to with regard to appearance and weight. We also discuss how we can protect our girl children from the beauty ideal message perpetuated in the media, and learn to love just who they are.

Reflections on Elections Jul 24, 2017

I discuss the tumultuous and difficult reverberations resulting from the rise in toxic masculinity, and the impact it has had on women, policy and politics with my guest, Amee Vanderpool. Amee is an attorney licensed in Washington, DC and Washington State, a writer, and the Director of the Inanna Project. She is also well known for her significant presence on Twitter as @girlsreallyrule. For more information on The Inanna Project, which advocates for equal protection under the law. Visit www.theinannaproject.org for more information or to find out how you can support their work.

Human Trafficking - Part 2 Jul 17, 2017

In this second part of my two part series on human trafficking, I begin with a quick recap of part one through a discussion with my guest co-host, John Philbeck, about highlights from part one. I continue my discussion with Dr. Karrin Anderson, a Professor from Colorado State University and a researcher and activist in human trafficking. We discuss how trafficking perpetrators avoid detection by law enforcement and are able to evade getting caught. We also discuss the steps that activists and astute bystanders can take to get involved in watching for signs of human trafficking, as well as becoming an activist against this horrific crime.

Human Trafficking - Part 1 Jul 10, 2017

The International Labor Organization estimates that human trafficking is a $150 billion a year industry worldwide. According to the State Department, trafficking is the world’s fastest growing criminal enterprise. And it's an enterprise that is devious, and nimble, and well-funded, and really good at evading law enforcement and hiding in plain sight. It is also probably in your town, your city, maybe even your neighborhood.

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Karrin Anderson about her work and research in the area of human trafficking. We talk about how trafficking has changed, and how we as witnesses have changed our thinking and views of trafficking and of victims over the years. In the first episode of this 2 part series, we discuss what human trafficking is, what it isn't, and popular misconceptions about trafficking.

REBROADCAST: Politics, Aggression, & Women's Malaise Jul 04, 2017

We are off this week for the Independence Day holiday in the US, but we have chosen one of our listener favorites to rebroadcast. We will be back next week with new material, and we look forward to starting some new discussions!

The Great Myth of UN and Family Planning Jun 27, 2017

The goal statement of the UNFPA, or United Nations Population Fund, is: Delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled.

Pretty lofty goals, but who could argue with that? Children who are born safe into families which welcome them. Every child has the ability to live up to their full potential.

And yet, there are plenty of people it seems who do not support this wholesome sounding, idealistic goal. To me it sounds akin to a meatloaf in every oven, a car in every driveway, and a safe pregnancy for every women. But that is not so.

Post-Truth Era and Politics Jun 19, 2017

A writer for The Daily Telegraph summarized that post-truth politics are driven by fabricated rumors. Facts become a negative thing. Facts are too pessimistic or even get painted to be unpatriotic, especially when matched up with unrealistically ideal positive campaigns that promise the impossible. In post-truth politics, the improbable becomes irrelevant. Politics that appeal to emotions, and adhere to persuasive, market-tested talking points are more compelling than fact-based arguments or principles. When political figures are called out on falsehoods, alternative truths, or….lies, there can actually be a backlash effect whereby those supporting the political figure can push back against the elites with their fact-based logic, and dig in and become even more convinced of the alternative truth.

How did we get to this point? Major contributors include the 24 hour news cycle, infotainment, tabloidization of news, and social media and the internet. We are now able to establish our very own echo chambers where we only receive and share information with like-minded individuals. Information can enter the news stream through this echo chamber and truth becomes almost irrelevant as long as it supports your mutual viewpoint

Living in Conflict Zones: Women, Children & Survival Jun 12, 2017

Women and children living in conflict zones are among the most disenfranchised individuals in our world today. They subsist in the midst of violence, chaos, failed states, refugee camps, crumbling systems and destroyed infrastructure. Despite this, every day women try to hold their families together. Feed their children. Care for the young, the elderly, the sick. They give birth, and often they die during childbirth. And they are also victims.

Gender-based violence in conflict zones has become not just a reality, but a tactic of war. Women and children are the most frequent victims because of their status in society, and their gender. Wide scale and systematic rape has been deployed in many conflicts, and survivors are sometimes blamed.

In this episode I have a fascinating discussion with Annie Agle about women and children living in conflict zones, the difficulties they face, and the shocking ways they are victimized by perpetrators as well as their culture sometimes.

Toxic Masculinity & Teen Girls: Slam Poetry Perspective Jun 05, 2017

Lots of women have been hurting since the ugly discourse of the Trump campaign and eventual election, as well as the acceptance by many of the rise of toxic masculinity. We haven't spoken aloud about it very much, but women are feeling trauma. What we have neglected to notice perhaps in our own contemplation and grieving, is whether girls and young women are suffering.

My interview with a young slam poet sheds light on how adolescent women are feeling. As we discuss in this interview, they are not immune to the pain and misogynistic blowback that Donald Trump has set loose in our society. My guest, Dani Miller, a young slam poet, shares her thoughts on this issue, as well as some of her very powerful and moving poetry on our patriarchy. This one is not to be missed!

Crisis Pregnancy Centers and Misinformation May 30, 2017

Crisis pregnancy centers, or CPCs, have been around for decades, but in the last decade or so they have become more strategic in their tactics. Many advertise that they provide services to pregnant women, but do not advertise what services they actually provide. They fervently oppose abortion, and tend to use deceitful tactics to engage women on the phone or through an appointment, sharing false medical information about the dangers of having an abortion, and the lack of effectiveness of birth control.

In a time when access to care, lack of health insurance, and the closing of family planning clinics is making for a perfect storm scenario putting up barriers to care for women seeking either contraception or help with a pregnancy, these CPCs are a public health risk for women.

Patriarchy, Elections, and a Continuing Struggle May 22, 2017

The outcome of the 2016 Presidential election was a shock to say the least, in particular for women. Women organized and fought for the right to vote in this country starting as far back as 1840. Women didn’t gain the right to vote until the passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution in 1920.

The possibility of a woman rising to the presidency was more than a watershed for women. This accomplishment would have been a validation for every woman, every girl, that yes indeed a woman could serve in this highest office in the country, and not just serve but perform with distinction and grace and competence and strength. It would be a giant marker in history showing that yes, at this time, a woman can be the most powerful. And by proxy, there was the promise that womankind, every woman and girl could be equal and have equal opportunity.

Becoming a Lighthouse: Men & Domestic Violence Prevention May 19, 2017

Men are the aggressors in 90% of intimate partner violence cases. Many cases go unreported, and many behaviors that are in fact abusive are not considered when we discuss domestic violence, like emotional abuse. Research tells us that abuse tends to run in families, or get passed down over generations. But we know it doesn't always, and it doesn't have to.

What can we do to prevent men from becoming perpetrators of domestic violence? And what, in particular, can men do? We knew there are certain people in the lives of men and boys, such as coaches, who can be positive influencers in helping them develop healthy and respectful relationships with women.

In my interview for this episode, I talk with one man about his unexpected journey into activism trying to involve men in the fight against intimate partner violence. We discuss the protective factors that can prevent a boy or man from becoming an abuser, as well as things that parents can do to help boys become young men who are able to engage in healthy and respectful relationships.

Not Just Baby Blues: Postpartum Depression May 05, 2017

Postpartum depression is a serious health consequence to being a new mother. It is actually a lot more common than you might think. You probably know someone who has suffered from it, most likely quietly. And why? Why did it happen, and why would you not have known about it?

So in this episode we discuss postpartum depression. It’s not baby blues. It’s not just a little bit of hormones and it will pass. It’s not – you’re just too tired and you need to take some “you” time. It’s depression. Serious depression.

March for Science, Truth, and the Tipping Point May 02, 2017

Since the election of Donald Trump, and his subsequent inauguration on January 20, 2017, the world has experienced a palpable shift. Things changed that day, and the reverberations have been felt worldwide. I don’t think anyone could have predicted the global response to the election of Trump to the US presidency, and the proceeding events that would take shape.

I attended the March for Science in Washington, DC. Tens of thousands of people who joined this protest to lend their voice against what has effectively been a persistent attack on science, and a broader attack on facts. Like many of the recent protest rallies, the March for Science was held in cities all across the United States, and all across the globe. People, whether scientists or not, added their voices to a call for – enough. Enough.

Environment in the Crosshairs: Interview with Melanie Moore, Union of Concerned Scientists Apr 24, 2017

In my interview with Melanie Moore from the Union of Concerned Scientists, we discuss how the environment is in the crosshairs.

Starting on the campaign trail, Donald Trump made clear his position on environmental protection. He promised to get rid of the EPA “in almost every form”.

Once elected he held those promises. Trump’s proposed budget would slash the EPA by about 31%. Grants to states, as well as its air and water programs, would be cut by 30 percent. The massive Chesapeake Bay cleanup project would virtually be eliminated in the next fiscal year.

The budget proposes the discontinuation of federal funding for the clean up of abandoned industrial sites, the Clean Power Plan, climate change research and international climate change programs. Altogether, it calls for the elimination of more than 50 programs within the agency.

Richard Nixon actually started the EPA back in 1970. It grew out of a conflagration of issues such as the publishing of the book “A Silent Spring” which documented poisoning of the environment with pesticides, rise in what was termed smog in growing cities, and…the moon landing. When astronauts landed on the moon and sent back to earth pictures of the beautiful blue, peaceful and fragile planet, the responsibility for caring for our celestial home became apparent.

Body Image, Fat Shaming, & Loving Ourselves Apr 17, 2017

This episode, I have a powerful discussion with Jennifer Rollin, a therapist who specializes in body image and eating disorders. We take a deep dive into body image and fat shaming. No one will be surprised to hear that the ideal body in our culture is thin. Very thin. And not everyone is very thin. Or even thin. In fact most of us aren’t. So let’s consider the space between the ideal and real. The chasm between what we are, and what the idealized perfect is.

We discuss how fat shaming and the thin ideal have become so acculturated and normalized that it pervades nearly every aspect of women's lives and can seriously undermine our confidence. We discuss how we can break this unhealthy fixation and help our girl children grow up feeling good about themselves.

Women and the Alt-Right Apr 10, 2017

In this fascinating discussion, I talk with Dr. Paul Johnson from University of Pittsburgh about the Alt-Right, their beliefs and ideologies, and a brief history of how they started.

The Alt-Right, is a general umbrella term for a set of right wing ideologies, groups, and individuals whose central belief is that white people, and most particularly white men, are under attack in our society by a system of multi-culturalism, and in their thinking political correctness gone out of control. The foundation of Alt-Right thinking is that white men have been displaced and emasculated by women and minorities, who are NOT equal to white men.

The Alt-Right movement has had significant success attracting social misfits who hear the message that if they are rejected by women, then it is not their fault, but it is the fault of our societal power structures which are systematically undermining the overall success of white men. They are the victims of an emasculating power struggle with women and minorities, which contributes to a bitter resentment toward both.

Lead, Social Justice, & Environmental Racism Apr 02, 2017

The ongoing crisis of contaminated water in Flint, Michigan has contributed to a growing discussion about social justice and environmental racism. Are we tacitly comfortable with environmental degradation in some areas, and not in others? For example, is a crisis of lead contaminated water in Flint acceptable, but unacceptable in Dearborn, Michigan?

This episode covers lead and human health, including the disproportionate impact on pregnant women and children. I discuss with my guest, Ruth Long, the detrimental impact on health, especially for children, and sources of contamination. We also discuss measures you can take to protect yourself and your family from lead exposure, including extraordinary measures our guest had to take to protect her young children.

Our woman in the spotlight is Vandana Shiva, who was a pioneer in eco-feminism.

Patriarchy, Parenting and Boys Mar 20, 2017

When the audiotape of Donald Trump on Access Hollywood leaked recording his discussion of his ability to grab women without permission, men from both parties expressed outrage. Some Republican lawmakers withdrew their support of Mr. Trump, including Paul Ryan, who said "I am sickened by what I heard today." Men of both parties said "As a father of daughters...." But why must a man have a daughter to feel or express moral outrage over such behavior? What about our sons?

In my discussion with blogger Jacque Gorelick, whose blog www.writewhereiam.com discusses the importance and challenges of raising boys in a patriarchy, with an understanding of male privilege.

Politics, Aggression, & Women's Malaise Mar 13, 2017

The level of rancor and divisiveness in our country right now is hard to miss or deny. In the midst of this ugly political discourse, the status of women has been under attack with some particularly misogynistic elements being given a platform, and some might say tacit approval in the lack of outrage or pushback.

This general feeling of a diminishment of women weighs heavily on many, often not even aware that it is there. I speak with my guest, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who talks about how the generally aggressive public discourse about women has impacted those who have experienced trauma in the past and find themselves triggered by this new and negative norm. We discuss signs to watch for in yourself, and in those you care for to be sure you are taking care of yourself and each other.

Are Little Girls Getting Too Sexy? Mar 06, 2017

The American Psychological Association, or APA has released a report which warns of the dangers of the sexualization of girls in media. They concluded that virtually every form of media which they studied provides significant evidence of the sexualization of women, and many specifically target children and adolescents.

In this episode I have a conversation with Professor Sarah Murnen about the sexualization of girls, and unpack the potential impact of this phenomenon on the individual girl, girls in general, and on society and how we view girls and women.

Have We Solved Domestic Violence? Mar 05, 2017

Domestic violence, or intimate partner violence, has been decreasing over the last decade. Some of this success is attributed to the Violence Against Women Act, which was drafted by then Sen. Joe Biden, and signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1994. The Act established the Office of Violence on Women within the Department of Justice. At long last there was a central federal authority with resources and a central mission to stop this violent but silent epidemic.

So we have the Violence Against Women Act, and some success in bending the curve of violence. However that doesn’t mean that the issue is gone and we can move on. Far from it. In my interview with the Washington, DC office Director of Futures Without Violence, Kiersten Stewart, we discuss that we have seen progress in some groups, but the good news is mixed. Young people still experience high rates of violence which often goes unreported, or when it is reported, is not taken as seriously as it perhaps should be. The importance of involving men and boys in the prevention of interpersonal violence is discussed. We also discuss the warning signs for a violent or abusive relationship, and how to approach someone you suspect is in a dangerous relationship.

In this episode, we highlight the work of Lady Gaga in drawing attention to the issue of rape and violence on college campuses.

What It's Like to Be a Refugee Feb 27, 2017

Refugee. The word has become quite an insidious code word. While it used to mean the needy, the hungry, the displaced, it seems that now for many it has taken on a very different meaning: the terrorist, the job-stealer, the beggar, the rapist.

How did we come to a place where our empathy has been almost completely arrested by disinformation campaigns targeting those who are completely disenfranchised? Homeless, without a country, welcome nowhere?

There are currently an estimated 65.3 million refugees worldwide according to the UNHCR. This is more than at any time in the world's history since World War II.

This country was founded by refugees fleeing religious persecution, yet we find ourselves having difficulty opening our arms to current day refugees.

This podcast will discuss who modern refugees are, where they are, and the plight of refugee women and children.

Demystifying Islam Feb 17, 2017

In this episode of Women Transcend, we are going to try to demystify Islam. This is the second in my 2 part series focusing on Islam and women.

When I decided to do this 2 part series, I’m going to be honest. It was a little out of my comfort zone. Sure, I have Muslim friends. I work with Muslims. But I had never actually had a conversation with any of them about what it meant to them to be a Muslim. What I found when I took that first step to open a dialog was that not only did I learn a great deal about Islam, but I learned a great deal about our assumptions and popular misconceptions about Islam.

I had the great privilege of talking with some amazing women for these 2 podcasts who were incandescently positive and hopeful, despite the rancor, xenophobia and nationalism going on in our society. In this episode, I interview Hassanah El-Yacoubi, a religious studies graduate student, to discuss and demystify, Islam

So I encourage you to take a chance, step out of your comfort zone, and start a conversation, or even a dialog, with someone of a different faith. Maybe even a Muslim. It might feel scary, but Ipromise it's worth it.

Demystifying the Hijab Feb 09, 2017

There is a conception, or perhaps rather a misconception, that Muslim women who wear hijab are forced to cover themselves by Muslim men who are enforcers of this religious tradition. Head covering has been interpreted by some as shaming the woman. A way to keep the woman in her place. In my fascinating interviews with two Muslim women who wear hijab, we discussed the hijab and what is really behind head covering, or modesty. The hijab has become a flash point for many in the US who hold the idea that Islam signifies the enemy, hate, terrorism. Why are we so afraid of the hijab?

Depiction of Women on Reality TV Jan 28, 2017

This episode brings a little scrutiny to the way in which women are portrayed in today's reality television programming. For example, women are frequently depicted as passive and weak, and are generally much younger and more physically attractive than their male counterparts. Reality programming can culturally signify that subordination of women is acceptable. They promote the embodiment of the media's version of attractive, tall, thin, and beautiful.

Studies have shown that nearly 70% of people ages 18-29 enjoy watching reality television. This is the viewing demographic that programs like these will affect the most, as this group is most likely to identify with the dating world as well as struggles with physical appearance and the desire for success and affluence. Should this concern us?

This episode will unpack some of these issues.

Women's March on Washington Jan 23, 2017

On Friday, January 20, Donald J. Trump was sworn in as our 45th president, having won the electoral college, but actually losing the popular vote by nearly 3 million votes marking the largest margin in history in a discordant electoral college/popular vote disparity.

In a visceral response to the election of a man that has the lowest approval ratings of any man taking the office, women, men, girls and boys took to the streets all over the nation, and all over the world in a show of defiance and solidarity. What started as the Women’s March on Washington became a worldwide phenomenon. The march on Washington drew what was estimated to be more than 500,000 people: the largest rally ever in history in Washington, DC.

The story doesn’t end with these very large marches. There were marches in cities and towns all across the United States on Saturday, January 21st.

I participated in the Women’s March in Washington, DC and spoke with some people who attended to get an idea of why they made the trip, and let’s be honest here, the very difficult trip, waiting sometimes hours for a spot on overly crowded train, sardine-like train platforms, lines 100 long for a porta-potty, and crowds so thick it was often difficult to move. What were the issues that compelled them to be there, at that site, for that event, on that day, January 21st.

This podcast discusses this historic event, and includes interviews with March participants.

Rhetoric of Women and Politics in the 2016 Election Dec 29, 2016

The 2016 election was historic, and had a historically controversial campaign season. Nearly all of the polls had Hillary Rodham Clinton the heavy favorite to become our first woman President. And then we held our election...

The election of Donald Trump, despite his crude, confrontational, and misogynistic style throws many questions onto the results of the election. Why did the polls get it so wrong? Were the polls bad? Were people not being truthful when they responded to polls, and they didn't intend to vote for Clinton but they indicated they were. If this is the case....why?

We heard quite a lot during the election season about the "likability" factor, especially with regard to Secretary Clinton. Many people indicated they didn't like her. Many said they didn't like her, but would vote for her. But what is in this word "likability"? Is this code for something much deeper?

In this podcast episode we discuss the idea of "likability" and what it means, particularly for women political candidates. I am joined by Dr. Taylor Hahn, an expert in politics and gender rhetoric, and we discuss some unique aspects of the 2016 election that might have contributed to the election of Donald Trump for the 45th President.

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Welcome to Season 2!

We have a conversation about Season 1, our favorite episodes and guests, and our favorite moments from the 26 episodes of Season 1. We tease our upcoming Season 2 episodes, and some of the exciting topics we will be covering. Hope you stay tuned and subscribe if you haven't already!

Gender-based violence in conflict zones has become not just a reality, but a tactic of war. Women and children are the most frequent victims because of their status in society, and their gender. Wide scale and systematic rape has been deployed in many conflicts, and survivors are sometimes blamed.

In this episode I have a fascinating discussion with Annie Agle about women and children living in conflict zones, the difficulties they face, and the shocking ways they are victimized by perpetrators as well as their culture sometimes.

The goal statement of the UNFPA, or United Nations Population Fund, is: Delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled.

Pretty lofty goals, but who could argue with that? Children who are born safe into families which welcome them. Every child has the ability to live up to their full potential.

And yet, there are plenty of people it seems who do not support this wholesome sounding, idealistic goal. To me it sounds akin to a meatloaf in every oven, a car in every driveway, and a safe pregnancy for every women. But that is not so.

Gender-based violence in conflict zones has become not just a reality, but a tactic of war. Women and children are the most frequent victims because of their status in society, and their gender. Wide scale and systematic rape has been deployed in many conflicts, and survivors are sometimes blamed.

In this episode I have a fascinating discussion with Annie Agle about women and children living in conflict zones, the difficulties they face, and the shocking ways they are victimized by perpetrators as well as their culture sometimes.

In a time when access to care, lack of health insurance, and the closing of family planning clinics is making for a perfect storm scenario putting up barriers to care for women seeking either contraception or help with a pregnancy, these CPCs are a public health risk for women.

What can we do to prevent men from becoming perpetrators of domestic violence? And what, in particular, can men do? We knew there are certain people in the lives of men and boys, such as coaches, who can be positive influencers in helping them develop healthy and respectful relationships with women.

In this fascinating discussion, I talk with Dr. Paul Johnson from University of Pittsburgh about the Alt-Right, their beliefs and ideologies, and a brief history of how they started.

Our woman in the spotlight is Vandana Shiva, who was a pioneer in eco-feminism.

In my discussion with blogger Jacque Gorelick, whose blog www.writewhereiam.com discusses the importance and challenges of raising boys in a patriarchy, with an understanding of male privilege.

In this episode I have a conversation with Professor Sarah Murnen about the sexualization of girls, and unpack the potential impact of this phenomenon on the individual girl, girls in general, and on society and how we view girls and women.

In this episode, we highlight the work of Lady Gaga in drawing attention to the issue of rape and violence on college campuses.

This episode will unpack some of these issues.

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