The Now What Pod

Here's a little Valentine's Day love with a throwback to one of our favourite early episode and to remind you all that we love you.   CW: Attempted Suicide, Substance Use, Sex work The Now What Pod talks with Kaitlin Bick, a survivor of domestic sex trafficking. Kaitlin shares her story from meeting her trafficker, developing a relationship with him, being trafficked, and finally leaving, and now advocating for others. Kaitlin's enthusiasm, positivity, and resilience to deliver a message of hope to other survivors and those who are struggling. About Kaitlin: Kaitlin Bick is a survivor of domestic sex trafficking. She is a former substance user who uses both her lived and professional experience to support and advocate for others. For the past four years, Kaitlin has worked on the frontline with survivors of human trafficking and precariously-housed individuals, ensuring that all their basic needs are being met. She uses her enthusiasm, positivity, and resilience to deliver a message of hope to other survivors and those who are struggling. Kaitlin facilitates workshops and training to service providers and community members and is dedicated to bringing awareness to domestic human trafficking and ending homelessness. Resources: For more information about Human Trafficking Canada Suicide Prevention Service   Support The Now What Pod (so we can be a little less tired) Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

The Now What Pod chats with Leslie about the moment she decided to end her marriage. Despite being high school sweethearts, and married with 3 children, Leslie threw her husband out of the house after discovering he'd been cheating on her. Listen as Leslie describes how he began pulling away, the way he made her feel insignificant throughout their marriage, and how she found out he'd been unfaithful to her. Leslie talks about the challenge of suddenly becoming a single mother and full-time student, and what it means to be a strong independent woman.    Topics Discussed: Meeting her Future Husband Marriage with Young Children Finding Out He'd been Cheating Throwing Him Out of the House Marriage Counseling Parenting after Divorce The Importance of Support Systems Emotional Abuse Narcissism   Resources: Emotional Abuse https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/abuse/youre-not-crazy-but-emotional-abuse-can-make-you-think-you-are/?utm_source=AdWords&utm_medium=Search_PPC_c&utm_term=PerformanceMax&utm_content=&network=x&placement=&target=&matchtype=&utm_campaign=17990185911&ad_type=responsive_pmax&adposition=&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1ZGcBhCoARIsAGQ0kkrt48OaqASHR5K-5YLkXUszes6TX6Pq43gBgmw-uhnElrJj8TwIkDUaAv1OEALw_wcB   Narcissism https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/narcissism-symptoms-signs   Taylor Swift Dance Party  https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-taylor-swift-dance-parties-midnights/   Taylor Swift Broke Ticketmaster https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2022/11/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-presale-concert-tickets/672181/     About Leslie: Leslie has been a primary teacher at schools in Scarborough for 17 years. Teaching is a third career as she was a fisheries biologist after graduating university, then became a stay at-home-mother, teaching music in the community, while raising 3 children. She went back to school to get her teaching certification at the age of 44 and is passionate about her teaching career. While studying to become a teacher, Leslie separated from her husband of 20 years, who had also been her high-school boyfriend. Leslie's hobbies include music, playing a few instruments and singing, and outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

The Now What Pod sits down to chat with Kareema for another episode in our “Bad Boyfriend Month”. Kareema tells us the story of how her religious beliefs led her to getting married young to somebody she'd known for only 3 months. Kareema sensed early on that something wasn't right within her marriage, but ignored her intuition and tried to be patient. It wasn't long before her husband had managed to isolate her from her friends and community, and began mistreating her. Kareema shares the story of how she finally left, and began finding herself again.    Topics Discussed Meeting her Ex-husband Quickie Marriage The influence of Islam on the decision to marry Healthy Marriage Gaslighting  Being isolated from her friends and family Deciding to end the marriage Support from family  Co-parenting Finding herself again after marriage   Resources: Gaslighting https://canadianwomen.org/blog/gaslighting-how-to-recognize-this-form-of-emotional-abuse/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAg_KbBhDLARIsANx7wAy1WRrcpc_Pz8vWC28zSAg0Lq33LXK3dVy3AOfqzFQ1KXEW_7BCGJoaArQlEALw_wcB   Types of Abuse https://reachma.org/blog/6-different-types-of-abuse/   What is a Healthy Relationship? https://www.awhl.org/what-is-a-healthy-relationship   Domestic Violence Resources for those who are or know someone who is seeking help (Canada) https://www.casw-acts.ca/en/resources/domestic-violence-resources#resources   Domestic Violence Resources for those who are or know someone who is seeking help (US) https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “I feel like within the first 6 months that I knew something wasn't right” “Keep everything silent. Don't say anything” “What kind of Muslim woman am I?”  About Kareema: My name is Kareema. I'm a 26 year old recruiter for a national  non-profit organization. I have 1 son that will be 7 years old in November. I believe very heavily in healing, self awareness, and constant development of self. In my free time I enjoy making TikTok content, spending time with friends, and engaging in various forms of self care activities.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

CW: Domestic Violence  Annesa has earned herself 400,000+ followers on TikTok for her advocacy against Domestic Violence. This week, she sits down with The Now What Pod to vulnerably share her own personal experience as a survivor. She tells us about being raised in a traditional Bengali family, how she met a man who sold her a dream and married him fast and young, only to have those dreams shattered a few weeks into the marriage. She explains the role that culture and religion played in her life before, during, and after her marriage. Now, Annesa is inspiring women and bringing light to important issues within the South Asian community.    Topics Discussed: Meeting “The One” Red flags  Love bombing  Getting engaged  The first time he hit her Family response to abuse The Decision to Leave South Asian Culture Healing after Domestic Violence   Resources: Love Bombing https://www.healthline.com/health/love-bombing   Trauma Bond https://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/ending-domestic-violence/what-is-trauma-bonding?gclid=CjwKCAiA68ebBhB-EiwALVC-Np87S0Gc5GVl6C4D6SdwiDMvKVqxyoGrwzspChIRp756VsvKeeILfhoCn1AQAvD_BwE   Domestic Violence Resources for those who are or know someone who is seeking help (Canada) https://www.casw-acts.ca/en/resources/domestic-violence-resources#resources   Domestic Violence Resources for those who are or know someone who is seeking help (US) https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES     About Annesa: Annesa is a Nurse, Survivor, and Advocate based in Austin, TX. She brings awareness to social issues in the South Asian community that are often stigmatized and looked past. She hopes to continue to inspire and bring light to important issues the community faces in order to help the next generation of men and women of this community. IG: @ovo_nesa TikTok: @ovo_nesa Email: itsannesa@dulcedo.com   Support The Now What Pod Send us an anonymous Voice Note Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

In this second episode of “Bad Boyfriend” Month, the Now What Pod sits down to chat with Bre about her past relationship with a narcissist. She walks us through their courtship and engagement, to finding out he'd actually been defrauding her.    Topics Discussed: Love Bombing Discovering she'd been defrauded Breaking up Getting back together Lies and Manipulation Rebuilding her finances Picking herself back up   Resources: Love Bombing https://www.healthline.com/health/love-bombing Financial Abuse https://www.verywellmind.com/financial-abuse-4155224   About Brea: Bre(She/Her) is an empathic professional counselor who strives to create a comforting and safe space to grow. Bre received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in Ohio and has since worked in a variety of settings helping people overcome anxiety, depression, trauma. She specializes in adolescent issues and parenting, LGBTQ and sexuality, and emotional regulation. When not working you can find Bre enjoying the outdoors, specifically in or near water kayaking, waterskiing, and swimming. She also enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with friends, family, and her dog. Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

The Now What Pod talks with Heather about her experience of being in a long-term relationship with a serial romance scammer. She walks us through how they met and fell in love. They lived happily for a couple of years before things started to unravel, and she soon discovered his secrets. Topics Discussed: Meeting her boyfriend  Finding out his real identity  Reporting it to the Police  Confronting the Narcissist Moving forward Love BombingNarcissistic Abuse    Resources: Toronto Life: The Twisted Mind of a Serial Romance Scammer https://torontolife.com/city/the-twisted-mind-of-a-serial-romance-scammer/   CBC News: Online Romeo jailed for Swindling Women https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/online-romeo-jailed-for-swindling-women-1.1246344   Narcissistic Abuse Cycle https://www.choosingtherapy.com/narcissistic-abuse-cycle/ The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “Well, if he comes back and you're afraid just call 911” “The feelings I had…didn't just go away” “He's just a bad person” “He had a pretty good life with me.” “He cost me so much money” “It was all a lie” “I still have gaps in my story” “I want the deep love” “My story is just a real cautionary love tale”   About Heather Rovet: Heather Rovet was born and raised in Toronto where she currently lives. She is a real estate broker and entrepreneur.  She is rebuilding her life one day at a time. She is writing a book about what she went through in the hopes that it will help others who find themselves in abusive and manipulative relationships. As well she has co-founded a podcast,  Hello Cougar, which is dropping it's first episode soon! Find her on social: @heatherrovet @hellocougarpodcast @thespringteam   Support The Now What Pod and keep us ad-free Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

This week, The Now What Pod is joined by author Emily Barth Isler. Emily shares her story of being diagnosed and living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). She describes the challenges of learning to harness her OCD as a Superpower, including the painstaking decision to take or not take medication for it. The interview includes discussion of mental health and hormones, her journey with going on and off medication, being in therapy, pop culture portrayal of OCD, and so much more.    Topics Discussed: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Synesthesia  Seeking Help for Mental Health Medication for Mental Health Deciding to Take Medication Anxiety Symptoms Going on and off Medication Mental Health and Hormones Opening up to others about OCD Trauma Responses  Disclosing Mental Health Pop Culture Portrayal of OCD   Resources: Order Emily's Book: https://amzn.to/3DxGZ1O Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20354432#:~:text=Obsessive%2Dcompulsive%20disorder%20(OCD)%20features%20a%20pattern%20of%20unwanted,activities%20and%20cause%20significant%20distress. Synesthesia https://www.webmd.com/brain/what-is-synesthesia#:~:text=Synesthesia%20Test-,What%20Is%20Synesthesia%3F,%22Alex%22%20and%20see%20green. The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “There will be times when you will not feel that way.” “This isn't forever. You are not going to feel like this forever. Feel it today, and cry, and hug me tight. This is okay. Feel these feelings… but I want to remind you that you won't always feel like this” “It would be helpful if we all viewed mental health on a spectrum” “Not everybody deserves my story” “I'm sad for the people that still feel like they have to whisper it, that they're going to therapy” About Emily Barth Isler: Emily Barth Isler is the author of the award-winning book AfterMath, a middle grade novel about grief, resilience, friendship, math, and mime. Activist and comedian Amy Schumer calls the book "a gift to the culture." Emily lives in Los Angeles, California, with her husband and their two kids. A former child actress, she performed all over the world in theatre, film, and TV. In addition to books, Emily writes about sustainable, eco-friendly beauty and skincare, and has also written web sitcoms, parenting columns, and personal essays. She has a B.A. in Film Studies from Wesleyan University, and really, really loves television.  Website: www.emilybarthisler.com  IG: @emilybarthisler Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Shop our Merch Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? Apply here thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

This week, Nathalie Cholette sits down to chat with The Now What Pod. Nathalie tells her story of starting out as a vibrant girl, in love with life, and of how, through endless expectations imposed on her from an early age, she lost her voice. Nathalie describes losing her identity, the decision to leave her marriage, and how she ventured to reconnect with her authentic self, and now seeks to inspire others to reclaim their voice.  Topics Discussed: Gratitude Mindfulness Practice  Being “too” much Living up to expectations The Straight Agenda Mindful Self- Compassion Self-Abandonment Finding Your Identity Dating after divorce Resources: Order Nathalie's Book: https://www.nathaliecholette.com/writer Kristin Neff: Mindful Self-Compassion https://self-compassion.org/ She-Hulk https://disneyplusoriginals.disney.com/show/she-hulk/ Allison's Story of Traumatic Brain Injury https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/026-allison-s-story-of-traumatic-brain-injury/id1559319776?i=1000536248879 The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “Underneath all that anger was a lot of shit I hadn't dealt with” ”Anger is a secondary emotion” “I had been living a life based on expectations”  “I wasn't lacking anything, except myself. I didn't know who I was” “We receive messages that we need to be good at all of our roles” “ How do you find yourself back?” “The people who leave you feeling lighter, those are your safe people.” “reconnecting to myself has been the biggest gift that I could have given to myself “ “I've rediscovered my worth and I'm living a life of purpose”   About Nathalie: Nathalie Cholette is a Speech-Language Pathologist with a background in mindfulness, who has dedicated her life to helping children find their voice. She speaks and writes openly about her experiences as a woman who, like many others, started out vibrant, lost in the wonder of her human experience, in love with the freedom of life, and of how, through endless expectations imposed on her from an early age, she lost her soulful voice. Nathalie hails from Toronto and is a mother of two teenage daughters. She is hungry and passionate about sharing her personal and professional experiences so that other women can reclaim their voice, stand in their own power, as well as become vehicles of positive change in the world. Website: https://www.nathaliecholette.com/writer IG: @nathalie_cholette_   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Merch    Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

This week, The Now What Pod sits down to chat with @anotherstrongwidow, Janice Bell. Janice's husband was diagnosed with cancer when she was pregnant with their third child. The following 6 months would be harrowing, as Janice cared for three children under four years old, and her ailing husband. Six months after his diagnosis, her husband died. Then, Janice herself began to experience unusual symptoms, and would have to fight to prove that she was not just an anxious widowed new mother, but that her symptoms were very real, and very serious.    Topics Discussed: Grief  Life as a young widow Caring for a sick spouse Finding a Family Doctor in Canada Cervical Cancer Symptoms Being diagnosed with cancer Women's Health Gaslighting by medical professionals Health Anxiety   Resources: What is Cervical Cancer? https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/cervical/what-is-cervical-cancer The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “There's no Guidebook for all of these feelings”    About Janice Life throws curve balls constantly; that's what living is – learning how to dodge them. It's ok, I had the ultimate dodgeball partner, and we had been accomplishing challenges of all sizes seamlessly together for over thirteen years. In February of 2019, I was thirty-five weeks pregnant with our third child when we got the ultimate curveball of all – cancer. Chris died in August of 2019. I struggle with his loss, but also the trauma of cancer itself and what I went through during his diagnosed period. Eighteen months after my husband Chris died, I received my cancer diagnosis of an advanced cervical tumour. I fought to be listened to, was turned away from the hospital, and was seen as a newly widowed young mother with health anxiety. This is my story as I move forward, rediscover who I am, and rebuild my life from (almost) scratch. If I can help someone else feel less alone and close my wounds a little bit, then I have accomplished what I've set out to do. IG: @anotherstrongwidow Website: anotherstrongwidow.com   Support The Now What Pod Shop Merch Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

Amber joins The Now What Pod to talk about supporting her children after the death of her ex-husband. Amber married her childhood sweetheart and had 3 beautiful children. After the dissolution of the marriage, her ex-husband succumbed to addiction and later died of an overdose. Amber talks about parenting her children through grief, and the burdens of solo-parenting.   Topics Discussed: Life after divorce Men's Mental Health Drug addiction Attending her ex-husband's funeral Supporting children through grief Supporting children through divorce Resources: Get Help with Substance Abuse https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/get-help-problematic-substance-use.html   Child Bereavement Canada https://childrensgrieffoundation.org/resources?gclid=Cj0KCQjwkOqZBhDNARIsAACsbfIN7_e1MugdfxZQ4JaP-C7WjKzM7_UIVDuRisteQwbC-gLxLl4NEIgaAureEALw_wcB The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “I didn't know how I was going to break it to the kids” “How are they gonna be okay without him?” “He hid a lot of what he struggled with” “I was angry at him for leaving his kids. I was angry at him for leaving me to raise them alone, and I was angry at him for not pulling himself together” “How am I still standing? I don't know” “We just keep on trucking”   About Amber: Amber is a business owner and a busy mom of 3. She is a retirement and investment specialist and is active in the hockey and baseball communities in the GTA. Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and bonus content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

Dr. E'Toyare “Torie”  Williams joins The Now What Pod to share her expertise in the area of Adverse Childhood Experiences. In this episode, you'll learn more about how what ACEs are, why they matter, and what your ACEs score is.    Topics Discussed: What are ACEs? Childhood Trauma Generaltional Trauma Getting therapy for ACEs ACEs Awareness The ACEs quiz: What's your score?   Resources: https://www.bevictorieus.com/ https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html https://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(98)00017-8/fulltext https://developingchild.harvard.edu/media-coverage/take-the-ace-quiz-and-learn-what-it-does-and-doesnt-mean/   The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “We're talking about life. Nobody is perfect” “The key word is Trauma” About Dr E'Toyare Williams: https://www.bevictorieus.com/ I am Dr. E'Toyare Williams, an Educational consultant, Certified Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, and Mentor. As a current Director of Special Education with 20 years of experience.  I am a HUGE advocate for Adverse Childhood Experience (ACEs). I completed my dissertation on the topic after addressing my own childhood trauma growing up. I have not only learned more about the psychological effects of ACEs on young minds, but also about the long-term health complications that can come from recurring exposure to ACEs. Now that I understand how toxic stress affects the minds and bodies of children, I want to educate others about ACEs while helping children build social-emotional skills and resilience and teachers with personal and professional development on ACEs.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - Join by October 15 and get a Limited Edition, Exclusive Sticker and access special episodes, including the uncut video from this episode.   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

Diana joins The Now What Pod to share her story of surviving The Troubled Teen Industry. She describes herself the trauma she experienced as a child when her father was killed by a drunk driver, and how in part, that trauma led to her “acting out” as a teenager. Her mother, desperate for help, then sent Diana to a residential treatment program designed to reform youth.  Diana would spend the next three years of her life enduring isolation, abuse, and brainwashing. She now bravely shares her story to help raise awareness about this industry.    Topics Discussed: The Troubled Teen Industry Childhood trauma Arriving at Ivy Ridge Life in “treatment” Lasting effects of the Troubled Teen Industry Advocacy   Resources: Breaking Code Silence  https://www.breakingcodesilence.org/   Trapped in Treatment https://podsauce.com/articles/paris-hilton-shares-her-survival-story-in-trapped-in-treatment/ The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “This is a Cult, I'm being lied to” “What are you doing to make up for what you did to us?” “This is why I don't forgive them is because we were young. Our brains were still forming. We were still trying to understand the world and make sense of our existence.” “I'm not gonna lie. I'm afraid of pain, but I do know that unless I like look at it and deal with it, it's not gonna go away.”   About Diana Nowak: Diana is a survivor of the troubled teen industry (also referred to as the TTI), where she spent over three years in her youth. In addition to being an advocate for other survivors, she is now a writer, tutor, and manager of her company's event coordinating department in Chicago. In her free time, she collaborates on documentaries and photography projects to try to bring an end to the TTI's corrupt programs and schools. Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Nina Purewal faced an unexpected tragedy as a teenager. She joins The Now What Pod to talk about the impact the murder-suicide of her father and brother had on her life and how it ultimately led her to an ashram in Northern California. Her loss and work to heal inspired not only a lifelong love of mindfulness & meditation but also a change in career, best-selling book and more. Topics Discussed: •Jen & Tesha spend some time talking current events (CW abortion) •Introductions and talk about Nina's body of work •How sharing stories help us let go of the shame around mental health & grief •The story of her father's & brother's death, how public it was and how it felt for Nina. Survivor's guilt •Nina's relationship with her mother and how supportive she was. •The pressure to just keep going and keep living. Finishing high school and going through university and getting a degree  and working in corporate without ever having fully dealt with the trauma. •Leaving it all to go to an ashram for a year with her mother and how that led to the work she does now •Letting go of the "shoulds" and not letting society dictate what makes a happy or successful life and how to parent kids who can see past that. Resources: From the Intro Supreme Court Overturns Roe v Wade https://www.npr.org/2022/06/24/1102305878/supreme-court-abortion-roe-v-wade-decision-overturn Abortion Rights Coalition Canada https://www.arcc-cdac.ca/ Action Canada for Sexual & Health Rights https://www.actioncanadashr.org/ National Network of Abortion Funds https://abortionfunds.org/   From the episode Nina's Website https://www.pureminds.ca/ It's Ok to Ask Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-ok-to-ask/id1596680248 Let That Sh*t Go by Nina Purewal & Kate Petriw https://amzn.to/3Nnjryw When The Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Gabor Mate https://amzn.to/3OuXVcu  

 About Nina Purewal: Nina Purewal faced an unexpected childhood tragedy, which inspired her mindfulness and meditation journey over twenty years ago. After climbing the corporate ladder in sales & marketing for nearly a decade, she took a sabbatical and moved to California to unplug and live in an ashram for a year to further her learning of ancient wisdom and letting go. It's been her greatest passion to help others find happiness through adversity. With that, she founded Pure Minds, a social enterprise that conducts mindfulness and meditation workshops for the corporate sector, with over 45 clients. She is the co-author of the International Bestseller, Let That Sh*t Go and has also partnered with A Kids Company About as a podcast host and kids meditation mentor. Find Nina on Instagram at @nina.pure.minds    Get on our email list   Support The Now What Pod Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Shop Merch   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Serena was born with a silver spoon in her mouth, but it tarnished. Her life fell apart when she was just four years old. After her parents divorce, Serena's brother went to live with her father, while she remained with her mother. Then one day, when left unsupervised, her older brother died in a tragic accident. This event precipitated years of being bounced around between family members. Not living with her biological parents, Serena felt a drive to be self-sufficient, and has found entrepreneurial success. In the episode of The Now What Pod, Serena joins us to share her story.    Topics Discussed: Serena's childhood The Accident Learning of her Brother's Death How children process death Survival Becoming Financially Independent Being an entrepreneur during the pandemic Becoming a mom during Covid  Shared Custody   Resources: Buy Serena's Book https://amzn.to/3navFzT   About Serena Holmes: Serena Holmes is the CEO of multi-award winning brand experience agency Tigris Events. She has spearheaded more than 12,000 brand building activations across Canada over the last 18 years. In addition, she recently transitioned her real estate license and launched her first book, The Accidental Entrepreneur – which is part memoir, part “nuts and bolts” business book. The book chronicles Serena's experience going from surviving a difficult childhood to thriving as a self-styled, private enterprise, thriving entrepreneur.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

CW: abortion   The Now What Pod is joined by post-abortion life coach, Amanda Star Kingsley. After an unexpected pregnancy, Amanda, a married mother of three, chose to have an abortion. Amanda discovered that this was a complex and emotional experience.  In this episode, we discuss abortion laws, deciding to have an abortion, the stigma of abortion, abortion access, and healing after abortion.  Topics Discussed: U.S. Abortion Laws The Decision to have an Abortion Stigma of Abortion  Life After Abortion Supporting and Feeling Supported  Planned Parenthood Abortion Access Post-Abortion coaching    Resources: Roe vs.Wade https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roe_v._Wade Working Moms imdb.com/title/tt6143796/ Planned Parenthood Toronto https://ppt.on.ca/ Planned Parenthood US https://www.plannedparenthood.org/   About Amanda Star Kingsley: Amanda Kingsley is a Certified Feminist Life Coach and Doula. She is the host of the Speaking Light Into Abortion podcast. And the Author of ‘What I Wish: 100 love notes to help you survive, come alive, and thrive after abortion.' After her own unanticipated abortion as a mother of three, she recognized the need for a wider conversation around the complex emotional landscape of life after abortion. She reminds her audience that it's okay to feel all the feelings after abortion, and that we can honor our decisions by living the life we made our choice for. You can learn more and connect with her at www.amandastarkingsley.com  IG @amandastarkingsley   Support The Now What Pod Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Shop our Merch   Subscribe to our Newsletter and never miss an episode!   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

CW: Suicidal ideation, sexual abuse, alcohol abuse, domestic violence   Charlene joins The Now What Pod to talk about the impact that the sexual abuse she experienced as a child had on her. As a teen and adult, Charlene struggled with alcohol abuse, mental illness, and suicidal ideology. The one day, just 2 days before she planned to take her own life, everything changed. She flipped the script and was able to begin the healing process, and find her purpose. Topics Discussed: The sexual abuse: Charlene talks about how she came to be living with her grandparents, and how the abuse at the hands of her grandfather began. Alcohol abuse: Charlene talks about leaning on alcohol as a coping mechanism Writing as an outlet Suicidal ideation, attepting suicide Domestic violence: Charlene entered into unhealthy relationships while seeking validation Trying to outrun her problems by moving far away Creating Happiness for herself Insecurities as a woman and mother Handling setbacks Gratitude, Morning Routines, Starting your day in a clear balance Supporting others: How can we hold space for others, allowing them to feel their feelings without trying to fix it.    Resources: www.ascensionwellnessstudio.com www.charlenemadden-speaker.com The 5AM Club https://www.amazon.ca/AM-Club-Morning-Elevate-Life/dp/1443456624 Miracle Morning: https://www.amazon.ca/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710/ref=asc_df_0979019710/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292938044607&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12146600924608737235&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1002468&hvtargid=pla-345853580821&psc=1   About Charlene Madden: Charlene Madden has admittedly spent most of her life living in a state of darkness.  After experiencing over 9 years of sexualized trauma at the hands of her grandfather, a decade of domestic violence, and 3+ decades of mental illness and suicidal ideology, she was just 2 days away from taking her life when she attended  a women's workshop where everything changed.  She was able to take off her blinders, begin the healing process, and find her Purpose by turning her Mess into a Message of Hope, Evolution, and Transformation that she now shares with people all over the world.  Charlene is a Mother of 3 amazing children, a wife, daughter, Reiki Practitioner, Women's Empowerment Coach. Connect with Charlene:  https://www.instagram.com/charlene_anne_madden https://www.facebook.com/charleneannemadden https://www.facebook.com/igniteyourlifebc https://twitter.com/MaddenAuthor https://ca.linkedin.com/in/charlene-madden-speaker-and-author   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Subscribe to our Newsletter & never miss an episode   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Sherente, a Two Spirit member of the Narragansett tribe, joins The Now What Pod to share their story of overcoming the discrimination they faced when they decided to compete in a dance traditionally performed only by women. Sherenté talks about their two spirit identity and how they are breaking barriers while fighting for Indigenous visibility.  Sherente takes the time to explain what it means to be a two-spirit and to teach us about Narragansett culture and history in this thought provoking episode.    Topics Discussed: Two Spirit: What does it mean to be Two Spirit? What was the traditional role of two-spirits in the Narragansett community?  Identifying as Two Spirit: Sherente shares their journey of coming out, being accepted Powwows and Pow Wow Dances: Sherente describes Powwows, both historically and at present. They share their experience deciding to compete in a dance traditionally performed by women.    Narragansett Culture and History   Narragansett People: A brief history of the Narragansett People   Resources: Complete the Circle https://www.uri.edu/tedx/talks/sherente-harris-complete-the-circle/ Documentary: Being Thunder https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14908696/   About Sherenté Harris: Sherenté Mishitashin Harris intertwines stories of cultural existence with their Two Spirit identity, to evoke emotion, spark dialogue, and amplify ideologies that are too often silenced. Sherenté's efforts oppose the prolonged issue of Indigenous invisibility. Sherenté is Niantic Narragansett and a citizen of the Narragansett Tribal Nation. Named a 2019 LGBT History Month Icon, Sherenté is also a 2018 Presidential and Rhode Island Foundation Carter Roger Williams Scholar and is currently enrolled in a five year dual degree program at Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design. S/he can be found on IG @sherente   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

The Now What Pod talks with Instamom,  Melissa Rainer. Melissa shared her motherhood journey, from stepmom, to bio mom, and then legal mom. Melissa dishes the real real of being a stepmom, and the challenges she faced before finally adopting her step children.    Resources: Instamom Pod https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/instamom-podcast/id1587915577   About Melissa Rainer: Melissa was a stepmom first, BioMom second, and now legal mom forever. She shares her story on her podcast Instamom from the beginning of becoming a stepmom and is working through to how she was able to adopt her stepdaughters. She always felt alone in her feelings of being a stepmom, which lead her to start the podcast. Being a primary parent without any legal standing really caused a lot of stressful situations. They have been a legal family for a year now but the difficulty of working through abandonment, disparagement & broken hearts is never ending.  Follow Melissa @instamompod   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

This week, The Now What Pod meets with Megan Hillukka who is a bereaved mother, with 7 children, one who died at 15 months old. When Megan was 36 weeks pregnant her daughter, Aria, died. Megan was caught between saying goodbye to one child, while welcoming a new child into the world. In this episode, Megan shares her experience with the death of her daughter, and what she has learned about grief. She now uses her experience to coach other grieving moms, and shares so much of her wisdom with us.    Topics Discussed: Aria: Megan tells us all about her daughter Aria, who died suddenly at 15 months old.   After Aria Died: In the aftermath of Aria's death, Megan suffered from PTSD. She desperately  wanted to care for her kids and be the best mother she could be, but struggled with grieving and did not want to be left alone with her children   Keeping Aria as part of the family: Megan talks about how her family keeps Aria's memory alive by continuing to talk about her often    Grief in Social situations: Megan describes how she navigates social situations where people do  not know what to say. Initially, Megan withdrew from social situations and chose to surround herself with only a few people. She also talks about how she manages telling new people about Aria.    Grieving: Through her experience of the death of her daughter Aria, Megan has learned how to feel her emotions, be aware of her thoughts and how much they matter, and learned that grief is with her the rest of her life, and she can ride the waves of it.   Coaching mothers through grief: Megan now encourages and supports grieving mothers. She helps others learn how to process and move through the emotions of grief through tapping and meditations, and provides a place of safety and compassion. Megan teaches us about she she calls clean grief and dirty grief.  Resources: Grieving Moms Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/grieving-moms-podcast/id1473859194 Grieving Moms Haven www.grievingmomshaven.com/bundle/hope About Megan Hillukka: Megan Hillukka is a bereaved mother, with 7 children, one who died at 15 months old. Megan encourages and supports grieving mothers that though the worst thing has happened to them, their life is not over. Through her experience of the death of her daughter Aria, Megan has learned how to feel her emotions, be aware of her thoughts and how much they matter, and learned that grief is with her the rest of her life, and she can ride the waves of it. Because Megan has done the deep work of grief, she now has room for joy, laughter, hope, and so much fun in her life. She will never forget her daughter Aria and they talk about her often as a family. She helps moms learn how to process and move through the emotions of grief through tapping and meditations, and provides a place of safety and compassion within grief, so that they too can feel themselves again and hope for their future.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Shop our merch   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Nova Reeves joins The Now What Pod to discuss the murder of her mother by “The Green River Killer”. As a child, Nova was frequently left responsible for the care of her younger sisters, while her mother struggled with drug use and undiagnosed mental health issues. Then, one day her mother disappeared and was never seen again.    In this episode, Nova shares the impact that her upbringing, and her mother's murder has had on her life, and how she has learned to grieve the death of somebody she had already lost.   Topics Discussed: Upbringing: Nova talks about her upbringing with a mentally ill mother, and being thrust in the role of caregiver for her younger siblings.    Grieving the Loss of her Mother: Nova has begun healing from wounds left by her mother. As part of her grieving process she has tried to unearth who her mother was by learning as much as she could about her. For Nova, writing poetry about her mother as played a major role in her healing.    Impact: Nove discusses how her early experiences have led to struggling with intimacy and boundaries.   Bipolar Disorder and PTSD: Nova shares what life is like for her living as an adult with Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD   Being a BIrth Mother: Nova describes the rationale beyond her own decision to place her child in an open adoption, and what her relationship is like with her son.    Generational trauma: In this episode, we learn who Marta was. Nova shares information about her mother's childhood and upbringing, and the threads of generation trauma are obvious.    Resources: Bipolar Disorder https://mdsc.ca/edu/what-is-bipolar-disorder/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwmuiTBhDoARIsAPiv6L_7xDApvVoRM-1AdPRvxjPyng2GPLdPR7wZLMULdSQhQ0FX1nyPWD8aAgcnEALw_wcB Catching Killers: television series https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15723914/ MMVR murder victims reconciliation (texas): Murder Victims' Families for Reconciliation http://ami.mvfr-tx.tripod.com/ Viva Victims advocacy https://outto.us/mnstrm/main   About Nova Reeves: Nova Reeves is an American poet and birth mother from the San Francisco area.  Her work can be accessed by emailing novareeves@gmail.com to acquire a copy of her zine, entitled "Mother, Meadow, Stones".  Additional work can be accessed by googling Nova Reeves and The Opiate Magazine for poetry, Nova Reeves and the Tacoma Tribune, for an op-ed on the death penalty, and Nova Reeves also on the podcast This is Actually Happening.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Returning Guest, Mandy Reilly, joins us at The Now What Pod to talk about her experience in the “Sandwich Generation”. Caught between raising a child, and caring for her ailing mother, Mandy shares a heart-wrenching and heart-warming story about Love, Loss, and Motherhood.
 Topics Discussed: All of the updates. Jen and Tesha talk life updates, and we chat about what's in store this season on The Now What Pod   Multigenerational Families: Mandy talks about life growing up in a Multi-generational home, and now living in a multigenerational home as an adult.    Responsible Decision Making: Mandy shares the hardships of making difficult medical decisions for loved ones, and planning a funeral for somebody you love.    Who is allowed to grieve?: We talk about defining grief and arbitrary rules for who is allowed to grieve.    Sandwich Generation: Mandy talks about raising her son, while caring for aging parents at the same time.    Grieving while Parenting: Mandy shares the heart-wrenching story of her mothers death, how she helped her son say goodbye to his grandmother, and grieving the loss of mother.    

 Resources: COPD  https://www.lung.ca/copd?gclid=CjwKCAjwgr6TBhAGEiwA3aVuIUEqA6aLdNjgOrZjoW686UriZvlM0vJ4fiHHnHWf5KocewUaWbzt3xoCF2MQAvD_BwE   To Purchase Mandy's Book: www.iknowiambook.com   About Mandy Reilly: Mandy Reilly runs on faith, Diet Coke and to-do lists - not necessarily in that order. She wears many hats but her two favourites are wife to Blake and mom to Cristian. Armed with her late Sicilian mother's sarcasm and Mexican father's family values, she loves long naps and carbohydrates. After almost three decades of being at war with her body, Mandy has realized she can be a masterpiece and a work in progress all at the same time and wants to make sure children know the same.   Her book, “I know I am”, comes out 5/17/2022 and is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and via the publisher https://www.orangehatpublishing.com/product-page/i-know-i-am-paperback   More info about the book can be found at www.iknowiambook.com   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content

Shop our merch  nowwhatpod.com   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

CW: Infertility, Infant Loss  In this episode of The Now What Pod, guest Kristin Joseph, tells her story of infant loss. She and her husband struggled for 4 years with infertility. They went through multiple rounds of IVF, miscarriage, and infant loss, before having their rainbow baby. Kristin takes us through the stress, pain, grief associated with infant loss, and the decision to try having another baby. Kristin provides advice for those supporting somebody through infant loss, or experiencing loss themselves.   Topics Discussed: Kristin's Story of IVF, miscarriage, and, eventually, a healthy pregnancy.  Mateo: Kristin describes Mateo's birth, meeting him, and then saying goodbye to him. Grief: Kristin describes the depths of her grief and the impact it had on her mental health then and now.  Deciding to have another child: Kristin talks about the decision to have another child.  Moving on or Moving through?: Kristin talks about the concept of moving forward but not moving on. Kristin's advice: Kristin tells our audience how people can support others going through this time.    Resources: PAIL (Pregnancy and Infant Loss) Network https://pailnetwork.sunnybrook.ca/   About Kristin:  Kristin is a Secondary Teacher in Toronto who is blessed to love her career and enjoys learning from her students every day.  She and her husband Triston and the proud parents of 15 month old Greyson and angel baby Mateo. Kristin is a survivor of infant loss and in her episode she tells the story of losing her son Mateo and how her life changed forever.  It was the first time telling her story through fully, so it is raw, messy and real.  She hopes that by listening to her episode, others who have experienced tragic loss and trauma will feel less alone and be empathically supported with grace and understanding. Once people realize that they are not alone in their grief, they, like Kristin, can learn to navigate the world differently and support others in their own healing. Also, Kristin hopes that loved ones will gain an understanding of how to support bereaved parents after a traumatic loss of a child. After Mateo passed, to honour his memory, she began to write a blog post for/about Mateo that further expands on her story and how she and her family walk through and with grief and triggers as they move forward. www.mateoanthonyjoseph.com Want to be a guest on the show?  You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com Follow us on IG/FB/TikTok/Twitter @nowwhatpod   Support the Show Patreon for exclusive episodes and more patreon.com/nowwhatpod Buy us a Coffee buymeacoffee.com/nowwhatpod Shop our Merch nowwhatpod.com  

CW: Birth Trauma, Medical Trauma Kayleigh joins The Now What Pod to talk about her experience with AFE (Amniotic Fluid Embolism), a rare, and often fatal complication affecting pregnant women shortly before, during, immediately after childbirth . She shares her post-partum journey, dealing with trauma as a new mom, and how we can better support new moms. Topics Discussed: Kayleigh's Birth Story  Coming Home - Kayleigh takes us through a range of emotions she experiences, from feelings of fear, anger, and grief to trying to be grateful all the time that she was alive. AFE or Postpartum depression? Supporting moms through Birth Trauma, and Recovery. Resources: Postpartum support international https://www.postpartum.net/ To learn more about AFE afesupport.org About Kayleigh  Kayleigh Summers is an LSW working as a school clinician at a boarding school in PA. She lives with her husband, Steve, 18 month old son, Callahan, and dog, Daxton. Kayleigh hopes to continue helping women on their birth trauma journeys through sharing her own experiences and creating space for others to share. Kayleigh also runs birth trauma peer support groups for women who are interested in making connections and finding support among other birth trauma survivors. You can find her on Instagram & TikTok @thebirthtrauma_mama. To find out more about AFE please visit afesupport.org. Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com Follow us on IG, FB, TikTok & Twitter @thenowwhatpod Shop our merch nowwhatpod.com Love the show, support us Patreon starting at just $3 patreon.com/nowwhatpod Buy us a Coffee buymeacoffe.com/nowwhatpod

Today on The Now What Pod we celebrate 1 year of releasing episodes of the show. We also make a fun announcement before sharing some fun and silly outtakes from the show.   Thanks so much for listening!   Support The Now What Pod Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes monthly Buy our Merch   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod?   You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod    

Marci Warhaft joins The Now What Pod to share her jaw-dropping journey to self discovery.  After suffering years of trauma, Marci coped by abusing both food and sex. She was a soccer mom by day, and stripper by night before eventually deciding to get healthy.  Working as a body image and self-esteem expert, Marci constantly worried her past was going to be found out, until she finally learned how to let go of the shame.   Topics Discussed: Jen and Tesha Life/ Podcast Update Marci's Childhood, and the loss of her brother Traumatic Overload Abusing Food and Sex Feeling like she didn't deserve to be here Struggling with disordered eating and body image Worrying about what others think Letting go of Shame   Resources: Your Dance Class (where Jen takes her dance class) www.Yourdanceclass.ca   We Should Talk About That Podcast https://www.westatpod.com   Buy The Good Stripper: A Soccer Mom's Memoir of Lies, Loss, and Lap Dances https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1989555349?tag=onamzteshagib-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=1989555349&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.H4MR7OBC8Q39     About Marci: Marci Warhaft is a recognized expert on body image and self-esteem, and founder of The Fit vs Fiction body image workshops. She was named one of Canada's Top 100 influencers for 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 by Optimyz fitness magazine. She is the author of, “The Body Image Survival Guide for Parents” and, “The Good Stripper: A Soccer Mom's Memoir of Lies, Loss and Lap Dances” Where she shares in raw, honest and intimate detail her eye-popping journey to self discovery. Marci uses her experiences to help others release themselves of the shame, guilt and insecurities that keep them from living their lives with the joy they deserve.   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Afshin joins The Now What Pod to share her story of living with chronic pain. Afshin began experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis as a teenager, but learned to mask her suffering after years of being dismissed by doctors. She talks about the impact pain has had on her relationship, daily life with pain, and her service dog.    Topics Discussed: Life Update with Jen and Tesha Difficulty getting diagnosed  Masking the pain Impact on her relationships Stress and flare-ups Familial Support Daily life with chronic pain Service Dog  Unsolicited advice  Learning to support others    Resources: Rheumatoid arthritis https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid-arthritis.html#:~:text=Rheumatoid%20arthritis%2C%20or%20RA%2C%20is,usually%20many%20joints%20at%20once.   Fibromyalgia https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/fibromyalgia.htm#:~:text=Fibromyalgia%20     About Afshin Bhimani: Find Afshin on Instagram @desi.spoonie and TikTok @solo.spoonie www.desianddiseased.com   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod  

The wonderful, Nadia George, joins The Now What Pod to share about childhood trauma. She shares her story of growing up in a dysfunctional family, with a father who was in and out of jail, and being failed by the child welfare system until she eventually left home at 15 years old.    Topics Discussed: Life Update with Jen and Tesha Introduction to Nadia Thunder Woman George Childhood Trauma: CPTSD, and developmental trauma Leaving home at 15 years old: running away, couch surfing, getting pregnant at 18  Child Welfare and the Indigeneous Community Power of positive affirmations Being gifted her Mi'kmaw name    Resources: Walkerton water crisis: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/inside-walkerton-canada-s-worst-ever-e-coli-contamination-1.887200 Lori Gill Lori Gill, R.P., M.A., (Counselling Psychology), Certified Trauma Specialist www.holisticwellnessforhealth.com Kids Help Phone www.kidshelpphone.ca Child Welfare Political Action Committee www.childwelfarepac.com Water First www.waterfirst.ngo Frasier crane https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frasier_Crane The haunted museum episode 9 https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14708338/   The Now What Pod Episode Quotes:  “My voice was always there. I just had to find it, and then have the courage to use it” “Trauma comes through the 5 senses” “Life can be different. It can be good.” “It's not my fault that these things happened to me, but it is my job to heal from them.” About Nadia George, Kaqtikew E'pit (Thunder Woman):  Nadia Thunder Woman George, is of Mi'kmaw First Nation and Canadian descent. Nadia is an award winning actor and public educator, and media personality based in Toronto; with over a decade of professional experience in social services specializing in trauma informed care. Gaining international recognition for her advocacy work on topics of mental health and environmental inequity, she continues to use her voice and platform to empower individuals, address stigmas around contemporary Indigenous identity, and advocate for equity of rights for Indigenous people in Canada. Website: ww.nadiageorge.com IG/FB: @nadiageorgeofficial   Support The Now What Pod's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com IG/FB/TikTok: @thenowwhatpod

Lisa Hicks joins us on The Now What Pod to talk about finding happiness and success as a queer, quirky, and neurodivergent adult. In this episode, she walks us through the self-discovery journey that led to her accepting what her ADHD diagnosis actually means, learning to focus on what happiness is to her, and eventually coming out as bisexual.   Topics Discussed: (0:00) Life update from Jen and Tesha (6:27) Introducing Lisa Hicks (8:18) Being diagnosed with ADHD at 18 years old.  (10:27) Masking: Trying to fit in with others throughout her life, and being a people pleaser (21:22) Lisa's specific symptoms: absentmindedness, impulse control, hyperfocusing (36:15) Strategies she's developed to help her succeed (47:19) Coming out as bisexual within a heterosexual monogamous marriage (1:01:10) Finding happiness for herself (1:05:06) Questioning the “rules”   Resources: https://www.lisa-hicks.com/   About Lisa Hicks:  Lisa (she/her) is a queer, quirky, neurodivergent, Mom of 2. She lives with her kids and her husband of 10 years in Ontario.   Lisa was diagnosed with ADHD when she was 18 years old but was never told what that meant. It wasn't until she was 34 and saw a relatable TikTok video that had her finally understanding why her brain worked the way it did.     Through this journey of self-discovery, Lisa came out as a queer woman and is navigating what that means in a happily monogomous, hetero-presenting marriage.    Lisa owns a coaching business and has a team of three other incredible coaches working alongside her. Her business and coaching method is designed to help folx understand why their brains work the way they do, help them to unlearn old stories and help them to live the happiest and most fulfilling life possible. Lisa and her team offer virtual one-to-one sessions, online community gatherings, an ADHD support group and other group programs.  Website: https://www.lisa-hicks.com/ IG/ TikTok: @thatlisahicks   Support Now What's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the The Now What Pod? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com Instagram: @thenowwhatpod Facebook: thenowwhatpod

Jess Buchanan was held hostage for 93 days in Somalia, before being rescued by Seal Team Six. In this episode of The Now What Podcast, she sits down with Jen and Tesha to talk about her kidnapping and time as a hostage. Jess B explores the ways that she kept hope alive until she was rescued, how she will never again be the person she was before, and what she has learned during her recovery.  Topics Discussed: (0:00) Life update from Jen and Tesha (5:05) Introducing Jess Buchanan and her work in Africa (13:04) The Kidnapping (18:50) “Camping out”:  Jess describes what it was like to be held hostage including what she ate, how she used the washroom, how she kept clean, and eventually getting sick (22:32) Not Losing Hope: Jess talks about how she kept mentally strong while figuring out how to stay alive, and not go crazy.  (36:25) After the Rescue: Jess found out that she was pregnant 2 weeks after the rescue. She talks about her postpartum recovery while coping with PTSD.  (46:30) Losing My Identity: Jess found that she was a new person, and could not get back to the woman she was before, even if she wanted to. (56:50) Jen and Tesha talk about how the podcast started.   (1:01:00) Key Takeaways: Jess shares what she hopes we can all take away from her story.    Resources: My TEDx Talk Change is Your Proof of Life TEDx Pearl Street My weekly Podcast We Should Talk About That  My Speaker's Academy The Project You Collective Watch our Project You Collective Video Bio   About Jess B:  Jessica Buchanan: Teacher, Author, Humanitarian, Speaker, Survivor On October 25, 2011, while on a routine field mission in Somalia, working as the Education Advisor for her non-governmental organization, Jessica 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.   Support Now What's drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the Now What Podcast? You can reach us at  Email: thenowwhatpod@gmail.com Instagram: @thenowwhatpod Facebook: thenowwhatpod

CW: suicide  Sneha, of the MindMatters Podcast, talks to us about the sudden death of her older brother when she was only 16 years old. As a teenager, living in a culture where mental health is taboo, Sneha was forced to seek professional help while hiding the truth from her family. She details how this loss shook her entire understanding of death and grief. We learn about Sneha's recovery and how she is now helping others on their mental health journeys.  Topics Discussed:   (0:00) Life update from Jen and Tesha (4:17) Introducing Sneha (6:14) Her brother's death: Sneha describes her older brother's sudden death (11:24) How this loss shook her entire understanding of death.  (12:58) Attempting suicide and deciding to get help (14:45) Shame and hiding the truth from her family  (18:42) The importance of having more than one outlet, or coping mechanisms  (23:15) Making meaning by starting Mind Matters (36:00) Finding coping mechanisms that work for you,  (39:39) Grief and healing are not linear   Resources:   Mind Matters Podcast Mind Matters Website Deep vein thrombosis https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352557 Stages of grief https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-grief   About Sneha:  Sneha Suresh is the founder of MindMatters, an initiative that is dedicated to raising awareness on mental health and de-stigmatising therapy. MindMatters is dedicated to recognising the right to good health and well being of everyone. They are the host of the “Mind Matters” podcast series “Perspectives” and “A Step Towards Help”,  and also the creator behind their newest project, the wellness support program. Coming from a culture that never talked about mental health or grief, MindMatters is the project created out Sneha's own life story, the loss of her older brother. They're also a final year law student and want to continue to specialize in human rights law. They believe in wanting to help people and supporting community. Website: www.mindmattersinitiative.com   Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhatpodcommunity

Amber, a model citizen, went to federal prison for sending an email. This week, she joins Jen and Tesha to share her story. We talk about her arrest, conviction, prison life, and life after incarceration. Amber is on a mission to destigmatize and humanize “felons”.    Topics Discussed:   (0:00) Intro: Jen and Tesha talk about applying for passports.  (7:23) The 7- year long investigation (13:35) Getting arrested and charged (24:14) Prison life: from her prison job to buying soap, and ramen noodles. (28:53) What happens when Mom goes to prison (38:45) Pandemics and Prison (43:42) Good Behaviour and not getting “shots” (47:30) Half-way house (53:22) The people you meet in prison (57:30) Life After prison (59:36) What role did race play in the case? (1:05:01) The Been Down Project: coaching and mentoring women facing incarceration   Resources: Former D.C. Schools Employee and Business Owner Plead Guilty to Federal Charge in Bid-Rigging Scheme https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/former-dc-schools-employee-and-business-owner-plead-guilty-federal-charge-bid-rigging   The Bob Barker Company https://www.bobbarker.com/   About Amber:    Amber Crowder's Been Down Project is a returning citizen's brutally honest, yet comedic, account of how she went to federal prison for an email.  Her vulnerable and transparent account highlights the inequities and flaws of the federal criminal justice system and the unique hardships for women in the industrial prison complex.     Amber uses her platform to be a voice, a resource, and an inspiration for women with recent federal indictments, women currently incarcerated, and women reentering society.    Amber is a student, and an entrepreneur in the hospitality industry who currently resides in Washington, D.C. Follow Amber on Instagram and TikTok @thebeendownproject   Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhatpodcommunity

Jen and Tesha chat with Krista O'Reilly-Davi-Digui about the tragic loss of her son to suicide/severe depression. The episode includes a lengthy conversation about the importance of community, and learning how to support others through difficult times. Krista shares an uplifting message about learning to allow joy to live alongside grief.    Topics Discussed: (0:00) Jen and Tesha talk about what they've been up to lately… mostly decluttering and podcasting. (6:32) Meet Krista: We learn a little bit about Krista, how she met her husband.  (14:01) Krista talks about her son Jairus, his mental health struggles, dealings with the health care and law enforcement systems in Canada, and eventual suicide.  (20:00) Motherhood, Guilt and Shame (21:41) The importance of community and community care (32:35) How to support others through difficult time (50:42) Allowing joy to live alongside grief (66:55) Working while in crisis Resources: https://www.alifeinprogress.ca/tools-for-child-or-suicide-loss/ Here's the Glennon Doyle Quote we were trying to reference: 'I will not stay, not ever again—in a room or conversation or relationship or institution that requires me to abandon myself.'    And… the Viktor Frankl quote: “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”   About Krista:  Krista O'Reilly-Davi-Digui C.H.N.C works as a writer, Holistic Embodiment Coach + Joyful Living Educator. She helps brave, weary, and curious women from different corners of the world remember their way to freedom by reconnecting with and befriending their true self, reclaiming their voice, and relearning how to feel safe, at home, and joyful in their body and their life. Connect with her at www.alifeinprogress.ca   Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhatpodcommunity

Jen and Tesha chat with Morgan Flores about her decision to leave the Mormon. She describes what it was like growing up in the Mormon church, and the ways in which the church placed demands on every aspect of her life. Morgan not only describes her decision to leave the church, but also explains the freedom that she has felt since leaving.    Topics Discussed: (0:00) Life Updates: Jen and Tesha talk about what they're reading these days, what they're watching on TV and what they've been up to lately. (7:58) Introductions: We meet Morgan.  (12:00) Joining the Mormon Church: Morgan talks about her mothers decision to convert and join the Mormon Church and to baptize Morgan when she was 8.  Morgan tells us about things that she likes about the church, growing up surrounded by other Mormons and beginning to question her Faith.  (22:58) High-demand religion: Morgan details some of the demands placed upon members of the Mormon church and the ways, from telling you what to wear, and what to eat or drink, who you could be friends with, and how you should be spending your money.  (26:52) How she spends Sundays now: Morgan talks about all of the freedom she has now that she isn't a member of the church. No longer looking for organized religion.  She discusses where her spirituality is moving now.  (29:39) Marriage: We discuss how Morgan is balancing her marriage while her husband is still a member of the church. She says the key is respecting each other's opinions, and focussing on the reasons why they got married.  (35:47) Reaction: Morgan talks about the support she has received from others (including social media) when she talks about leaving the church. She also describes some of the push back she has received from other Mormons.  (41:11) Being weighed down: Morgan shares about some of the ways that she felt weighed down and dismissed by the church. She describes always being sent the message that the church is perfect, and any concerns you have are your own personal fault. She also describes the way that mental health issues are treated by the church, and the toxic positivity they encourage.  (49:57) A weight lifted: Morgan describes feeling relieved when church was canceled during Covid lockdowns, and noticing her anxiety lower, feeling lighter and free. Morgan only realized how heavy the weight of the church was once it was gone. (53:08) Learning to deal with emotions: Morgan is learning to accept emotions as they come and go on this journey.  (1:02:32) Advice for anybody leaving the church: go slow, turn to people who love you unconditionally.  Resources: Glendon Doyle's Book,  Untamed can be found in our Amazon shop.  https://www.amazon.ca/shop/jen_hoffmeister_?ref=inf_pub_jen_hoffmeister_   What is Mormonism: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mormonism   About Morgan:  Morgan Flores runs an Instagram account where she talks about minimalism, organizing and cleaning. She also speaks out about growing up with a mother who had hoarding tendencies and deconstructing from the Mormon church. She's married to her husband, has three daughters and is currently a film student. She also runs a podcast with her husband called The Minimalist Couple. Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhatpodcommunity

Jen and Tesha sit down with Michelle and Rachelle from Being Here Human to talk about Grief. What is grief really? How does it manifest? How do we support those who are grieving? And what could we be doing better as a society? Topics Discussed: Introductions: Jen and Tesha talk about what they've been binge watching on TV.   What is Grief? Grief is not only a response to death, but any personal loss. It is involuntary and it impacts us on every single level. It doesn't have an end point.   Grieving within a Capitalist System: We discuss the ways in which our treatment of grief in a capitalist society is not in line with what grieving people actually need, but instead seeks to further benefit the cycle of production and consumption.    Grief changes us: After profound loss our perspective changes. How does grief change our perspective. You are forever changed, and there is no going back to normal.    Silo-ed off from death? We are so sheltered from the realities of death, and what it actually looks like, that as a society we have lost our ability to understand it, and support those who are dying or have lost a loved one.    Finding your community: We often think that those who are grieving need to seek professional help (i.e. therapist, social worker, psychologist) yet, there is no real certification for grief work. Instead, we need to find people who understand grief, and are willing to support us. We talk about supporting grieving people and contributing to community care.    Resources: www.beingherehuman.com Heidi Priebe Quote from IG : @heidipriebe   About Being Here Human:  Being Here, Human aims to decrease the harm and isolation that is so often associated with being bereaved. They challenge and dismantle some of the most commonly held myths and misconceptions about grief. They share language and offer skills to support you in recognizing and honouring your own grief, and the grief of those around you. The co-founders Rachelle Bensoussan & Michelle Williams, practice a non-pathology approach grief and loss, with a focus on inclusion, anti-racism and anti-oppression.   Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content Want to be a guest on the show? Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

We're back!   Here's a teaser for what you can expect from Jen & Tesha in Season 2.   www.nowwhatpod.com Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community    

Jen and Tesha reminisce about Season 1. From where this podcast began to where it is now, 35 episodes later. We talk about what we've learned along the way, how we've felt, what we hope our guests are taking away from these stories, and what we are going to do with our time off.    www.nowwhatpod.com Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: graphic violence, domestic abuse In our most graphic story to date, Chelsey opens up about the night that she was attacked by her ex-boyfriend, and survived an attempted murder. The tables quickly turned when she found herself in jail up against second-degree murder charges for his death. One year after the incident, Chelsey opens up about the fateful night that she defended herself, her fight with the justice system, and her healing journey after such trauma.    Topics Discussed: (2:31) Their relationship: Chelsey shares the story of the abusive relationship that she shared with her ex-boyfriend, and how she was eventually able to escape. She explains how she  agreed to meet up with him, because she wanted closure. (6:20) The Attack: Within 4 minutes of being with him, the attack began with a punch that broke Chelsey's nose. Chelsey details the attack by her ex-boyfriend, how she defended herself, escaped and got help.  (30:36) The Aftermath: Chelsey was charged with second-degree murder and taken to jail almost immediately following the event. Chelsey talks about her time in prison, living with a court mandated curfew, and dealing with the justice system. Chelsey had support from her friends and family, but still was left with a lot of trauma to deal with, even after the charges were dropped. (53:00) Now what?: Chelsey tells us where she now, how she feels about the upcoming anniversary, and what she hopes others can learn from her story.  (59:28) Healing from here: failure of systems to help her.   Articles about Chelsey: https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/braun-woman-exonerated-in-self-defence-killing   https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2021/05/22/toronto-womans-murder-charge-withdrawn-in-strongest-case-of-self-defence-i-have-ever-seen-in-30-years.html   About Chelsey: Chelsey is a domestic violence and attempted murder survivor.  The tables quickly turned when her actions of self defence against a violent ex-boyfriend landed her a murder charge and a one-way ticket to jail. One year after her incident, Chelsey finally opens up about some details from that night, her charges being dropped, and her healing journey after such a traumatic series of events.   Support our drive to upgrade our audio equipment Buy Us a Coffee Patreon - and access special episodes and content   Want to be a guest on the show? Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

Nikieta joins us to talk about growing up with a Narcissistic mother. Nikieta tells us about her childhood and what it was like growing up with one narcissistic parent and one loving parent. By the time that she was in middle school, she had started figuring out that her mother wasn't like other moms. As an adult, she suffered from both anxiety and depression. She began examining her childhood and has begun to heal, while also helping others. We talk about topics such as: why nobody is talking about Narcissistic mothers and childhood trauma, the pressure that mothers feel to be perfect (especially when their relationship with their own mothers was unhealthy), “Mother Worship”, and why disengaging with a narcissist is the best option.    Topics Discussed: (4:27) Growing up with a Narcissistic parent: Nikieta grew up having her feelings invalidated, feeling like a burden, and learning to just take care of herself.    (6:53) Nobody is talking about it: Nikieta decided that she wanted to write a book, but fearing that nobody would buy it because nobody knows who she is, she created an Instagram account and began building an audience. She realized that when she talked about having a narcissistic mother, that her posts really resonated with so many others. While many people have grown up with narcissistic parents, it is not often talked about, and makes people very uncomfortable.    (19:54) Dealing with a Narcissist: Nikieta shares more details about her childhood, and her relationship with her father and sister. Her father, who was in the Navy, never realized the full extent of how her mother was treating her and her sister when he wasn't home. As an adult, Nikieta had begun to distance herself from her mother, visiting only when necessary. She still wanted to be good to her, and before her mothers death, had not fully grasped that disconnecting completely would probably be for the best.    (28:40) Impact: Nikieta suffered from depression and anxiety, and it took a while for her to begin discovering the reasons behind it. Around Middle School, Nikeita had started to figure out that her mother was different from other moms. Nikieta tried to learn to forgive her mother, studied gratitude, faith, religion, and joy before realizing that she need to unpack her childhood trauma.    (36:43) Mother Worship: We talk about having our feelings minimized by comments like “But, she's your mother!”, realizing that nobody had a fully magical childhood, and the idea that TV moms do not actually exist so we should stop trying to be like them. Nikieta shares about worrying that she is like her mother, and overcompensating as a parent.    (60:58) What can you do if you think your parent is/was a narcissist.   Resources: Lisa Romano https://www.lisaaromano.com/ Dr. Ramani http://doctor-ramani.com/ About Nikieta: She's made it her life's mission to help people find the voice that childhood trauma took from them. Through years of therapy, research, determination, and the support of her close circle, she's been able to endure all of this and create a life of joy that she loves living, and she wants to help as many people be able to do that as possible. She bares all her ugly in hopes of helping people feel like they can push through one more day and eventually see all the joy and peace that life has to offer. Website: www.nikietalambert.com Instagram: @nikietalambert   Help us upgrade our audio equipment! Subscribe to Patreon for exclusive content and perks. Buy us a Coffee   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: mention of sexual abuse and domestic violence We chat with Amy about her recovery from Sex and Love Addiction. Amy walks us through how childhood trauma affected her, and resulted in her desire to be loved at any cost. She shares what life was like being in active Sex and Love addiction, and when she knew something had to change. Amy teaches us the characteristics of a Sex and Love addict, and what recovery looks and feel like. We talking about Self-Love: how we become self-living, and how we raise self-loving children.    Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions: Amy tells us a little about herself.  (2:29) Childhood trauma: Amy tells us a little bit about her childhood and youth which involved sexual abuse and domestic violence. (10:01) Dating: Amy talks to us about dating and relationships. She previously engaged in a cycle of binging on sex addiction, and then binging on love addiction. She describes being clingy and overly attached to boyfriends unable to gauge if the relationship was healthy, finding exhilaration in fooling around with men, getting a high from picking up men, but feeling unfulfilled.  (17:14) Realizing that she was a Sex and Love Addict: Amy talks about being overwhelmed by her feelings, and finding men to distract her. She shares about hitting rock bottom, putting her children through multiple moves and inconsistency, realizing that the same patterns were repeating themselves and that she herself was the common denominator.  (25:39) Characteristics of Love Addiction: Amy shares the characteristics of sex and love addicts anoymoousm and the connections that she saw between herself and those characteristics. (31:15) What is recovery for a sex and love addiction: Amy talks about what recovery looks like for a Sex and Love Addict, such as learning to say no, taking it slow in a relationship, being vulnerable, llearning to love and relate to others, and setting goals and boundaries. (46:42) The First Year: Amy is almost one year into her recovery journey, she shares with us what that looks and feels like, and how she is striving to be the best version of herself.  (56:01) Raising self-loving kids: We talk about raising kids who love themselves.  (1:01:15) Her Mother: Amy tells us how she has worked to repair the relationship between herself and her mother.    Resources Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous  Codependence Anonymous   About Amy Stockwell: Find Amy  https://amystockwell.ca IG @amy_stockwellness Recovering love addict and PTSD advocate, Amy is a life coach and speaker who has turned her life around overcoming the trauma of her chidlhood that involved sexual abuse and domestic violence. With a degree in psychology, Amy has been working in mental health for the last 10 years and shares her knowledge through writing her blog on her website. With her recovery focus on self-love and self-esteem, Amy is passionate about inspiring and helping others to change their lives and overcome obstacles. By sharing her experience and recovery Amy's goal is to be a voice for those who struggle so that they too can recover. Help us raise fund for new audio equipment and join our commuities Patreon Buy Us a Coffee   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: Eating Disorder   Jess came to tell us that it's okay to be fat. We chatted this week, with Jess Sims, a radical self-acceptance, and body neutrality advocate. Jess spent a good portion of her life dieting before deciding one day that she was never going to diet another day in her life, and began unpacking diet culture. Jess is honest and open in sharing her views on diet culture, its root cause, fatphobia, and how we can begin our body acceptance journey.  Topics Discussed:   (0:00) Introductions: Jess tells us a little about herself.    (4:40) Diet Culture Hamster Wheel: Jess grew up in a fat body, always thinking that her life would begin if she lost weight. Being diagnosed with ADHD and binge eating disorder as an adult, and as part of her recovery, she decided that she didn't want to diet ever again. She talks to us about radical body acceptance and body neutrality.   (16:00) Feminism and diet culture: We discuss dieting as a way of making ourselves smaller, and more palatable in a patriarchal society. Society has told us not to love our bodies. Dieting is about the internalized messages that our appearance, as women, is the most valuable thing about us.    (22:47) Fatphobia in Medicine: Jess explains that women's health is not taken seriously, especially if they are living in bigger bodies. We discuss doctors finding a way to work weight loss into the conversation, and not providing the same access to care for overweight people.    (28:43) Punishing ourselves: Jess talks to us about women focusing on their weight, and struggling for their entire lives. We weigh ourselves daily, feeling as though we've failed and  punish ourselves for any minor weight gain.    (32:49) Body Positivity vs. Body Acceptance: Jess talks to us about gentle body acceptance, and the idea that it is normal and natural to have days where we don't like part of our bodies. We do not have to be positive all of the time. Body positivity is toxic positivity.    (39:25) Creating Change: We talk about the discrimation that fat people face, and the real reason behind it. White supremacy keeps these systems in place because thinness and being small are qualities that white men value in white women.    (43:11) Diet Industry: We discuss the diet industry, and their potential for causing active harm, while making themselves rich. We talk about weight loss on television, and the acceptance of the “Dad Bod” in the media.  (56:24) How do we fight this?: Jess talks about realizing that body acceptance is not going to happen overnight, and our need to unlearn internalized fatphobia.      Resources: Intuitive eating: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach  by Evelyn Tribole M.S. R.D., Elyse Resch M.S. R.D. F.A.D.A.      About Jess: Jess Sims is a freelance fashion, health, and culture writer. Her work mainly concerns marginalized people, and focuses specifically on fat people of color. She is currently writing her first novel. imjesssims.com   Want to help us upgrade our recording gear and get exclusive access? Support us on Patreon Buy Us a Coffee   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: Eating Disorder   In this episode, we talk to @curvyknockout, Mandy Reilly. She shares her story of battling disordered eating since childhood. Mandy remembers the first time she was ever called fat and the impact it had on her. She attended weight loss programs as a child, and later developed bulimia. Mandy takes us through the ups and downs of living with an eating disorder. We discuss using the word “Fat”, negative self-talk, and the power of sharing stories.    Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (3:10) Her childhood: Mandy recounts the first time she was ever called “Fat”, and the beginning of her eating disorder at the age of 7. Mandy started dieting, and joined a weight loss group when she was still in elementary school. She was an overachieving teen with a great sense of humour, but held herself back in many easy because she didn't want to draw attention to herself. Mandy went away to college for one year, but returned home early to help care for her ailing grandmother.  (12:36) Bulimia: Mandy met her husband online, and got married young. She experienced her first bout of bulimia, just before finding out she was pregnant with her son. During this time, Mandy was at her thinnest physically but also at her least mentally stable. Mandy says that finding out she was pregnant saved her from her first bout with bulimia. After a series of traumatic events, Mandy found herself once again struggling with bulimia. Trying to find herself, and feeling out of control, bulimia became a coping strategy. Mandy tells us about the moment that she knew she had to quit for good.  (46:44) The word “Fat”: Mandy is not trying to be the best version of herself in a healthy way, finding joy in movement, learning to be comfortable in her own skin, and empowering others. We talk about how much power we give words, and Mandy shares a story about somebody calling her fat online, and how she responds now.  (58:14) Negative self-talk: We talk about how we are so critical of ourselves, and talk worse to ourselves than we would ever talk about somebody else. Mandy describes how far she has come, but still has moments of self- doubt along the way, as part of the human experience. We talk about finding people who support the real you and being authentic online.  (1:07:30) Influence?: Mandy claims that she is not an influencer, but likes to inspire people to be the best version of themselves, by sharing her story to try helping others.      About Mandy: Mandy Reilly is a full-time working mom that runs on faith, Diet Coke and to-do lists - not necessarily in that order. She and her Jersey boy of almost 16 years, Blake, are parents to the handsomest of handfuls (Cristian, 13 going on 30). Armed with her late Sicilian mother's sarcasm and Mexican father's temper, this Enneagram 2W1 is always trying to make the pieces of her puzzle fit. Always in need of a margarita and a nap, she is constantly trying to figure out how to make the two happen simultaneously. After 30 years of being at war with her body, Mandy has realized she can be a masterpiece and a work in progress all at the same time.   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

In this episode, Jenn shares her story of having a heart-attack completely out of the blue at 38 years old. This event challenged her beliefs, as a postpartum fitness coach, that she could be healthy at any size. Jenn struggled with feelings of shame about her body, and fought the urge to change everything about her lifestyle, while dealing with a medical system that ignores women and people with larger bodies. We talk about the messages we are given about our bodies, the power of social media, soft tummies, and shunning the idea that we need to get our pre-baby bodies back.  Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (2:23) Heart attack at 38: Jen describes what it was like having a heart attack at 38 years old. She tells us about her symptoms, and learning to advocate for herself, while being isolated during an ICU hospital stay due to COVID-19 protocols.  (15:45) Women's Health: Jenn chats with us about the discrimination that women face in the medical system from not having their symptoms taken seriously, to little research being done in women's health. We discuss the portrayal of heart attacks in the media, and also the blind faith that we put in doctors.  (33:17) Shame: Jenn talks to us about the feelings of shame around her body that began to bubble up after her heart attack, and being sent the message that she had caused this because she was bigger. She describes the impact that medical professionals have when they believe that the solution for every health problem is to lose weight. Jenn had to resist the urge to try changing everything about her lifestyle, because she knows deep down this isn't true.  (40:28) Health Neutrality: Jenn calls herself health neutral. She talks about people having tunnel vision around fitting ourselves into bodies that society deems good enough, when we should be doing what makes our bodies feel good. We talk about feeling betrayed by our bodies when they don't work the way we want them to. We also discuss looking in the mirror and not feeling good about our bodies, but learning to love them.  (48:23) Social Media: Jenn talks about how we can change our social media habits, not just to prevent ourselves from seeing what we don't like, but using it to normalize normal bodies.  (54:36) Soft Tummies: We receive so many messages about our bodies, and often feel the need to justify them, but we don't need to, and we don't need to get our pre-baby bodies back either. Exercising should be about doing what we love, not punishing ourselves.    About Jenn: Jenn Green is a born and raised Maritimer who moved to Toronto and fell in love with a human man, so she stayed and married him. They have a 7 year old neurodiverse kid who has taught her more about Lego than she ever imagined. Jenn helps Mamas get strong. She also teaches them to give the finger to postpartum 'bounce-back' culture. In her spare time, she takes on projects she never completes and then feels really bad about it.   Jenn can be found at  IG: thisbabymamabody Website: www.babymamafitness.com Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

TW: Eating Disorders, Weight Loss Liz shares her story of living with disordered eating. From where it all began, to restricting her caloric intake, abusing laxatives, and intense exercise, Liz's account is honest and intimate. We include discussions around raising children in a society that celebrates thinness, getting help, and supporting loved ones that are struggling. While Liz is healthy now, she has learned not to say that it couldn't happen again.    Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (3:49) How it all began: We start by talking about the way that thinness is celebrated in our society. Liz shares the story of the first time that she felt her body was different, and that her weight carried value. (7:51) Disordered Eating: Liz began actively engaging in disordered eating as a freshman in highschool. Liz shares how her feelings of not fitting in, being uncomfortable in her own skin, led to her feeling like she was not good enough. Liz shares some of the behaviours that she engaged in, how her parents handled this once it was discovered, some of the symptoms she began to experience as a result of anorexia. (16:25) College: When she began college, Liz felt that she was in a better place, but still considered her body an enemy. Once there she met others that alos engaged in disordered eating, and she began abusing diet pills and laxatives, restricting food, and doing aerobics for 2 hours each day as an Aerobics instructor. (21:00) Putting it all Behind her : Liz joined a monthly support group for women with eating disorders, She then spent 15 years, having what she describes as the most normal relationship she's ever had with food. She was open with others about her struggles, and thought it was all behind her. (24:00) Relapse:  Liz had a relapse in her 40s, spurred on after seeing photos of herself at a wedding. She began losing weight through dieting, using an unrealistic benchmark of daily intake of calories. Liz takes us through some of her behaviours, the mental toll that it was taking on her, and how people rewarded her for her weight loss. Able to see the impact that it was having on her and her family, Liz decided to get help. (32:43) Getting help: Liz met with a clinician, and was told that she should take a leave of absence from work, and go to a partial in-hospital program. That terrified her, but she refused. Knowing that she needed to take back control, she instead began to meet with a therapist and a nutritionist weekly. Liz began setting and achieving small attainable goals with her nutritionist. (39:43) Raising children: We discuss learning to talk about food in a positive way with our children. Not good food or bad food, just food. We talk about kids teasing one another, and dealing with sugar-obsessed kids, and raising children in a world that celebrates thin. (44:58) Where She is Now: Liz talks about how humbling it was to experience anorexia again in her 40s, learning to notice how much better she feels when she is healthy, and those competing voices in her head. Liz also reveals whether or not she will ever share her experience with disordered eating with her children. (1:00:11) Liz's advice: Liz shares her advice for supporting those you think may be struggling with an eating disorder.   Resources: Multi-tasking in Heels Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/40mMujdAPeDNFsZJaLWSVj Scary Mommy article: https://www.scarymommy.com/anorexia-only-affects-teenage-girls-myths/ Physical (Tv show): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11828492/ Eating by the light of the moon: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/0936077360?ref=exp_jen_hoffmeister__dp_vv_mw MEDA: https://www.medainc.org/   About Liz:   Liz is a marketing exec, wife, and mom of 3 spirited (e.g., crazy) children. She loves yoga, true crime, and the Wu Tang Clan and is committed to a journey of self-improvement.   Want to be a guest on the show?   You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

Emma has been on a self-help journey since she experienced burnout working Internationally in the non-profit sector. Listen as we talk with Emma, about her rock bottom moment, the self-help tools she has found useful, the decision to become a life coach and certified hypnotist. We also have a lengthy decision about negative self-talk, where it comes from, and how you can begin to love yourself.      Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (3:11)  Living in Thailand: Emma went to study abroad in Thailand. It didn't turn out to be the trip she imagined in her dreams. She was lonely, and started journaling and self-reflecting. When she returned to the US, she didn't know what to do for work, and  her relationship was crumbling.  (12:44) Living in India: Emma accepted a job working for a non-profit in India, she was working  (16:46) What is burnout?: We talk about working in the non-profit sector and the idea that burning yourself out is just an expected part of the job. Emma knew she couldn't continue this way, and wanted to start working for herself.  (25:23) Hypnosis: Emma explains what hypnosis really is, how it has helped her, and why she decided to become a hypnotist.  (37:03) Self- help tools: Emma shares some of the various self-help tools that she has tried and which have worked for her.  (39:55) Self-Love and Negative Self-Talk: Emma shares where negative self-talk comes from, and how we begin to overcome it. We talk about learning to love ourselves, and shedding the negative self-talk.   Resources:   Super Soul Podcast  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/super-soul/id1264843400   Xo Higher Self with Bunny Michael's https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/xo-higher-self/id1515528948        About Emma: Emma helps badass millennials break free of society's shoulds and live by their own rules. As a coach and certified hypnotist, she's obsessed with helping folks recondition their mind to align with their most authentic dreams and desires, and creating safe spaces for them to feel seen, heard, and validated.   www.Authenticityremastered.com   Want to be a guest on the show?   You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

Allison suffered a traumatic brain injury with life-altering effects. She walks us through her story from the injury through coming to terms with her new ability levels, to now thriving in her work as a career coach. We discuss what it means to have an invisible disability, women in the workplace, learning to set boundaries, and so much more.    Topics Discussed: (2:25) The injury: Allison suffered a traumatic injury as a young working mother of 2. While some of the effects were evident right away, her symptoms continued to worsen.    (9:49) Losing it all: Allison lost the ability to work, drive, cook, maintain her home, and care for her children,    (13:00) Recovery: Through various therapies, Allison relearned many of the skills she'd lost including, how to cook, use a phone, and read.    (21:09) “What am I going to do with my life?': Allison started examining her limitations and strengths as she tried to figure out how she was going to work.    (30:27) Career Coach: Allison talks a bout the decision to become a career coach, and she details some of the adaptive tools that she uses to get the job done.   (40:56) Women in the pandemic: Allison talks about the ways in which women in the workplace were inequitably affected by the pandemic, and how Moms at Work helped support many women who were being forced out of the workplace.    (44:33) Setting boundaries for herself: Allison has learned that she needs to have boundaries for herself that takes her abilities into account. This includes working in pockets of time that work for her, and placing limits on social media.    (51:44) Grieving the life she once had: Allison gets into more detail about how she processed her new reality, and shares a rock-bottom moment when her neurologist placed limits on what she can do. She discusses grieving the life she once had.    (61:05) Invisible Disability: Allison explains some of the things that people have said to her about her disability, assumptions people make about her, and the idea that people feel comfortable around her because she doesn't look “disabled”    (66:50) Saying No: We chat about women learning to say no, without explanation.  Resources: Moms at Work www.Thisismomsatwork.com   Pay Transparency: https://generationpr.ca/what-is-pay-transparency-canada/#:~:text=Pay%20transparency%20is%20exactly%20what,days%2C%20and%20paid%20sick%20days.   About Traumatic Brain Injury https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557   "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky https://www.fairplaylife.com/   "And then it hit me" by Allison Venditti https://careerlove.ca/2019/02/19/and-then-it-hit-me/   About Allison:  Allison is a career coach, HR professional, advocate for working mothers and survivor of a traumatic brain injury.   Allison founded Moms at Work - Canada's first professional association for working mothers with the goal to create education, community and support for working mothers. We advocate for the change you want to see in the world.   When she isn't climbing with her boys aged 10, 8 and 3 she is attempting to write terrible science fiction, improve her star wars trivia and pretend to use the craft supplies she secretly hates.  She can be found on IG @thisismomsatwork   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

Mary is an adoptee who spent over a decade searching for her biological family. She would eventually connect with her biological mother, but it was not the reunion she had hoped for. Then, Mary received a text message that would change the course of their relationship, and Mary's world. She shares what it is like growing up adopted, questioning her self-identity, searching for her biological family, finding them, and and so much more.    Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions: Mary tells us about her background, and growing up as an adoptee (4:00) The Search: Mary began to wonder about her biological mother when she was 18 years old, she began looking for her. She worked with her adoption agency, and used adoption search sites, and eventually found success but not the connection she had longed for. (15:28) The Text Message: Mary received a text message from her biological mothers significant other informing her that her biological mother was very ill, and they didn't know if she was going to make it. Mary began speaking with her biological mother every day, getting to know her, and her half-brother with eve more surprises coming along the way. (22:49) Every adoptee has their own journey: Mary talks about the variety of ways that being an adoptee has affected her throughout her life, the difficulties she faced during her search, having children of her own, and how she is healing.  (29:38) Grief: Mary opens up about grieving the loss of her biological mother, and how the grief sneaks up when she least expects it.  (37:53) Two weeks: Mary only got two weeks to get to know her biological mother before she passed away. Mary tells us what they talked about, how their relationship developed, and supporting her half-brother through that loss.   (44:10) Adoptive parents: Mary talks about the support she received from her adoptive family in but how she also wanted to protect them as she searched for her biological family. (48:54) Mary's advice: Mary shares her best advice for supporting an adoptee through the journey to find and/or be reunified with their biological family.  About Mary Mary Herbert is an adoptee and busy mom of four. She has been searching for her biological family for over a decade and when the pandemic hit she also received a text that changed her world. The book she's writing and services she's now providing as an Adoptee Doula, an advocate and counselor to other adoptees that may be going through hardships, is a direct result to the past 18 months of her lifelong journey coming to a head. She lives to speak with other adoptees about being an adult adoptee and the trials and tribulations that may come with a realization that adoption is truly a big part of who we are.   Mary can be found @becauseadoption Want to support the show? Buy Jen & Tesha a coffee Join our Patreon community for exclusive episodes and events   Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at  Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

Andrea was a teenage mother to two very young children when she was widowed at 20 years old. She shares her story of dealing with both grief and an ongoing police investigation, struggling to make ends meet, and sorting through her partner's belongings years after his death. She describes herself as living tax refund to tax refund, and never feeling like she was in control of her finances. We talk about our spending habits, teaching our children about money, and how Andrea is now coaching others towards financial freedom. She shares what she thinks is the first step to taking control of your money. Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (1:57) Teen Mom: Andrea talks about having 2 children as a teenager. Talks about struggling to make ends meet, being on food stamps, and trying to figure out how to be adults along with her children's father. (5:58) Young Widow: When Andrea was 20 years old, her partner was killed. Andrea talks about being widowed, having to move back in with her mom while navigating an ongoing police investigation into his death. She describes having to keep going, putting her kids in all sorts of activities to keep busy, and trying to keep her kids from finding out how he died. (11:01) Holding on: Andrea talks about being single for a long time, and feelings of guilt over starting to date again. Andrea held onto to her deceased partner's possessions for a long time before eventually beginning the process of sorting through his things. (20:32) Living Tax Refund to Tax Refund: Andrea describes what it was like living with low income, and never feeling in control of her finances. With some coaching from her mother, Andrea started learning how to manage her finances. (26:30) Beginning to Budget: Andrea and her husband started considering how they could take control of their finances, and start saving up for the things they really wanted from life. We discuss spending habits, and teaching our children about money, and how Andrea is saving for her wedding celebration. (36:53) Financial Coaching: Andrea started sharing about budgeting on IG, and as her account and success grew, she began coaching others to figure out their own finances. She shares what she thinks is the most important step to taking control of your money. Quotes: Guest Bio: My name is Andrea and I am a budgeting coach! I help women organize their finances so they can stop living paycheck to paycheck and start being confident in the way they handle their money. I was a teen parent with 2 kids by the age of 19, and then, unfortunately, widowed by the age of 20. I was on all kinds of government assistance, trying to make things work as a single parent. I was able to get my shit together and start saving for my future. I currently save 50% of my income every month and want to teach others how to do the same. My mission is to empower other women to take charge of their finances and let them know that it is possible for them to be financially free, no matter the circumstance. Andrea can be followed @millennial_money_boss Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: Infant Loss Episode Description: Frannie, an English expat, discovered within weeks of moving to Canada that she would need to terminate her first pregnancy due to medical complications. From there, Frannie's journey to define herself and find her purpose has taken many turns. We discuss how she is navigating the pandemic with 3 kids under 4 years old, how she has learned to invest in self-care as part of her mental health journey, and how she is finding purpose through her work. Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (1:57) Moving to Canada: When Frannie and her husband moved to Canada 6 years ago, they were pregnant with their first child. Within the first few weeks of living in Canada, she found out that the pregnancy would have to be terminated. Frannie talks about the difficulty of this coupled with being in a new country where she didn't have much in-person support. (15:32) 3 under 4 in a pandemic: Fast forward a few years, and Frannie now has 3 children under 5 years old. Her youngest having been born just before the pandemic began. Frannie shares about her mental health struggles, with a newborn in the beginning of the pandemic, worrying about money, not being able to work, not having help with the children. (20:07) Feeling trapped and alone: Frannie began running everyday, investing in self-care, finding new ways to define herself, and set off on a quest to find her purpose, and a way to make money too. (38:52) Care Club: Frannie talks about building her Care Club community, and what it is all about. (51:33) What Frannie does for self-care: Frannie shares some of the things that she does for self-care, from cold dips to tapping. Listen to the rest of this episode on out Patreon at patreon.com/nowwhatpod Resources: Care Club & Side Hustle to CEO www.frannieandco.com Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1594634726/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_GS75JX23P00PGN6X30PC Wim Hof Method app https://www.wimhofmethod.com/wim-hof-method-mobile-app About Frannie: Francesca (aka Frannie) is a transplanted Brit, mother of 4 (raising just 3 kids) here in Toronto. Since moving here she has experienced a lot of loss starting with losing her first son Phoenix just weeks into arriving in Canada. She has been learning how to navigate loss while having a lot children within a short space of time away from family support. The pandemic left Frannie with 3 kids, including a newborn all under 3.5 years old. It was a scary time where she really felt close to breaking down. Instead she chose self development, a change of career and an intense focus on self- care which is at the forefront of her businesses. She shares more on how she used her experience to get through such a hard period of time. You can follow more of what she is up to @frannieandco @shtoceo Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: Sexual Assault, Drug Abuse Episode Description: Ana shares the story of how she decided to change her life using small tangible steps after years of struggling following an 18 month deployment in Iraq. Ana talks about the effect that PTSD had on her and her relationships, the dissolution of her first marriage, a second marriage to someone in active opiate addiction, becoming a mother, and how she decided to take back control of her life. Topics Discussed: (0:00) Introductions (2:50) Military Life: Ana talks about joining the US military, and her deployment in Iraq for 18 months. As somebody in a leadership role, Ana felt a huge responsibility for others. She began to compartmentalize her feelings, including those around a sexual assault that occurred while she was deployed. (11:23) Coming home: Ana tells us what life was like when she returned home. She shared the impact of PTSD on her life and the dissolution of her first marriage. (20:30) Second Marriage: Ana talks about what life was like being married to somebody in active opiate addiction, and how becoming a mother made her realize that something had to change. (23:53) Making a plan: Ana decided to sketch out a plan for her future, taking control of her health and money, and deciding to leave her husband. (28:32) Brain Dump: we discuss the concept of putting things down on paper to help clear your mind, and get the full picture. (34:34) Feeling Safe: Ana talks about setting herself up to feel safe, and we each discuss the role feeling safe plays for us post-trauma. (41:56) Where is she now: Ana talks about what she is doing now, being in a healthy relationship, and using what she's learned to help others. Quotes: “ I felt very much out of control, and so I started writing down the things I could control” “ I never want to feel like that again” Guest Bio: Mother, Partner, Soldier, Dreamer, Planner, Educator I'm a US Army veteran, an entrepreneur and trainer. I've owned several brick and mortar businesses alongside my military service, and in 2012, I became a mom to my beautiful son. At the time of my son's birth, I was really struggling. Still serving in the Army, I was married to someone in the absolute throes of opiate addiction. I commuted three hours a day to work a job that didn't pay me nearly what I was worth, and my bank account was drained as soon as my paycheck hit it. I knew something had to change, and fast. Fast-forward a year later, and I was well on my way to freedom and fulfillment. I no longer felt trapped, anxious and stuck. In my search to get my life really on track, I decided I needed to find or create the tools- the real, tangible steps- to square away what I knew my best life could be. I made the decision that I was going to change it all up. For me, and most importantly, for my son. I was going to make the life I wanted for myself. So, I Began. Ana can be followed on IG @anamckennaofficial Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

CW: Pregnancy Loss This week, we chat with Michelle, co-host of the “I Did Not Sign Up For This” Podcast, mother of 5, and widow. Michelle tells us about how she and her husband met, their beautiful life together, and how she is coping and raising 5 children alone after his death. Topics Discussed: (3:45) Their Beginning: Michelle shares how she and her husband met and fell in love. (7:52) Starting a Family: Michelle shares the ups and downs of starting a family, including miscarriage, buying thier dream home and having 5 children. (17:43) The News: Michelle takes us through finding out that her husband died, and the hours and days that followed. (31:26) Life After the funeral: Michelle talks about the decision to move her family after her husband's death, going back to the workforce, getting counselling, dealing with her husband's estate, and battling depression and anxiety. (58:22) Grief-cation: Michelle talks about having somebody watch her kids, and going to a hotel for a few days, so that she could take a grief-cation. (70:00) Life without him: Michelle talks about what life is like without her husband: the loneliness she experiences, holidays being hard, and feeling like a burden to others. Michelle also shares what she hopes anybody can learn from her story. Quotes: We can't compare traumas, nobody's winning. Just do something That grief and that pain is never going to go away The help is there in the beginning, and then it goes away because everybody goes on with their life Guest Bio: Michelle (she/her) is a 37 year old widowed mom. She lives Alberta with her 5 children, where she works in banking. Michelle is also a co-host of the “I Did Not Sign Up For This” Podcast. Find them on IG @ididnotsignupforthis.podcast Want to be a guest on the show? You can reach us at Email: nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com Instagram: @nowwhat_podcast Facebook: nowwhat.pod.community

Sinead grew up with a condition, (Parkes Weber Syndrome) that affects fewer than 800 people worldwide. Through a series of hardships, she had to learn how to advocate for herself. Sinead started experiencing problems with one of her feet, which would land her in the hospital for 1.5 years. Nobody really knew exactly what was going on or how to treat it. During this time, Sinead struggled with feeling isolated, & suffered from depression. Then along came her first service dog, Paddington who would change everything. Sinead is currently paired with a new service dog, Foreman, who has saved her life a number of times, & has given her & her family their independence back. Topics Discussed: (1:41) The Early Years: At birth, it was apparent that Sinead was different, but they didn't know why. Sinead talks about being adopted, spending a lot of her childhood at Toronto Sick Kids, & starting to realize that she was different from the other children. (13:45) First Surgery: Sinead had surgery to stop one of her legs from growing any more. Sinead could no longer play sports. She experienced depression & weight gain. (20:00) The Foot: Sinead started experiencing problems with one of her feet. Nobody could figure out what was wrong or how to help her. She ended up in a hospital for 1.5 years, struggling with depression. (24:30) Graduating to Adult Health Care: Sinead was discharged from care at Toronto Sick Kids when she was 20 & had to begin advocating for her medical care. Sinead details some of the abuses that she has endured during hospital stays. (30:09) I have what?: At 23 years old, Sinead received a new diagnosis that rocked her world. Sinead had become an advocate for her condition & found a sense of community with others who have the same condition only to find out that she had a different condition altogether. (34:22) Service Dog: Sinead eventually got a service dog because her mobility was declining, & he miraculously her foot healed. (38:00) Advocacy Work: Sinead is an advocate for disability rights. She has spoken at Parliament Hill Queen's Park & as an ambassador for the Rick Hansen Foundation. (41:25) COVID & hospital visits: Sinead describes what it is like to need medical care during a pandemic, & fears around staying in/going to the hospital when she needs care. (43:48) Foreman: Sinead has a service dog named Foreman, she tells us more about him, & the ways that he helps her, & what she wishes the general public knew about what he means to her & her family. Resources: Rick Hansen Foundation https://www.rickhansen.com/ About Sinead I am Sinéad & I am a firm believer everything happens for a reason & humour has always been a way I have been able to find the positives in what most would refer to as a negative situations. Growing up with a condition no one has ever heard of has presented many challenges, but I have never let that stop me. As long as I can remember, I have been a force to be reckoned with. As a kid that would've been on the soccer field or in a swimming pool; however currently, in my adult life, that has me energetically & influentially advocating for accessibility, inclusion & the importance of service animals in the lives of those who need them. While my life may not be what I had imagined growing up, I am grateful I can draw on all my experiences to support & educate others. Sinead can be found at @herlifein4paws on TikTok & IG ​​https://www.herlifein4paws.com/ Wanna be a guest? Email nowwhat.podcast.info@gmail.com or find us on IG @nowwhat_podcast