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