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Summary: Let's talk about babies, baby! Today our hosts discuss books featuring pregnant protagonists. This is especially timely given that Holly is pregnant (and upon release, perhaps Baby has already arrived!). Whether you're looking for an unexpected romance or a real look into vulnerability and perseverance, reading works centered on pregnant folks is a great avenue to go down. Note: Given the imminent arrival of Holly's baby, we will be going on a hiatus after our 90th episode, through the summer and fall. We will keep you all posted from there about what's next as Holly gets adjusted to this new phase of life—in the meantime, thanks for your patience and of course we have 90 episodes you can revisit at any time in case you miss us. Topics Discussed: The Heart (4:28): Devin discussed Ready or Not by Cara Bastone, a novel following Eve Hatch after a one night stand leads to an unintended pregnancy. Living in Brooklyn with a dream-adjacent career, best friends, and a cozy if not exciting life, Eve now has her whole future thrown into uncertainty. Whether it's collaborating with her baby daddy or increasingly relying on her best friend's brother, Shep, Eve needs to figure out what she really wants now, beyond her child. Devin's key takeaways were: The portrayal of pregnancy and the pacing of this story by Bastone give the reader time to experience (secondhand) the trajectory of those pivotal 9 months and how Eve navigates not only her growing belly but also her growing network and expanding world. With ups and downs, excitement and fear, whether you've been pregnant before or not you should expect to empathize and better understand that experience. While there are romantic elements to this book, it's not a very intense or dramatic part of the book. The greater emotional arc of the book is around found family for Eve and the way she explores platonic and romantic intimacy outside of sexuality. If you're looking for a slow burn, emotionally intelligent connection, this book is for you. As the reader follows Eve from her predictable and controlled life in Brooklyn into this surprising and unexpected future, we explore how she learns to embrace the unexpected and let go of her need to control her life too much. The best laid plans almost never work out and for Eve, that might be a great thing. The Dagger (15:48): Holly discussed Tilt by Emma Pattee, a climate fiction story following Annie, a 37-week-pregnant woman who is shopping in IKEA when a massive earthquake - modeled after the predicted Cascadia Subduction Zone event - devastates Portland, OR. Trapped momentarily amidst the chaos, she escapes the huge store only to find the city in ruins: communication lines are down, infrastructure is destroyed, and everyone is panicking. With no way to get in touch with her husband, Annie embarks on a treacherous journey across the city to reunite with him. Holly's key takeaways were: Throughout her journey, Annie grapples with her identity and the societal expectations of motherhood. She reflects on her past aspirations, including her abandoned dream of becoming a playwright, and how these unfulfilled ambitions intersect with her current role as a mother-to-be. The narrative delves into her internal conflicts, questioning traditional notions of maternal instinct and the societal pressures placed upon mothers. The earthquake serves as a catalyst for Annie's transformation. Initially portrayed as overwhelmed and uncertain, her experiences during the disaster compel her to confront her fears and reassess her priorities. This journey mirrors the transformative process of becoming a mother, highlighting themes of growth, sacrifice, and the redefinition of self. Annie's odyssey underscores the human capacity to endure and adapt in the face of overwhelming adversity. Throughout her journey, Annie meets a spectrum of individuals—some offering aid, others posing danger—each interaction shedding light on human nature in crisis. Interspersed with her physical journey are Annie's reflections on her past: her career aspirations, the strains in her marriage, and her ambivalence about motherhood. Hot On the Shelf (32:01): Devin: We Solve Murders by Richard Osman Holly: King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby What's Making Our Hearts Race (36:01): Holly: IMO Podcast with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson Devin: Silicon Valley on HBO Max Instagram: @heartsanddaggerspod Website: www.heartsanddaggerspod.com If you like what you hear, please tell your friends and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so that we can find our perfect audience.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama and her brother Craig Robinson, co-hosts of the IMO Podcast, join Damona for a compelling conversation on navigating connection in the digital age. Together, they share insights into how they maintain strong family bonds across long distances and the role of technology in bridging that gap. What You'll Learn: How Michelle and Craig keep connected with loved ones despite busy schedules and miles apart The surprising benefits of texting vs. phone calls in sustaining relationships How to bring spontaneity back to phone conversations without overwhelming your schedule Why FaceTime and family Zoom calls became a lifeline during the pandemic—and how they continue to use them to stay close Practical tips for setting communication boundaries that promote genuine connection This conversation isn't just about tech—it's about purposefully using it to deepen the relationships that matter most. Subscribe to get every new Dates & Mates episode as soon as it drops, and don't miss Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson on the IMO Podcast, where they explore life, love, and everything in between with candor and warmth. Follow Michelle Obama @michelleobama Follow Craig Robinson @craigmalrob More about the IMO Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
WHO SPOKE IGBO THE BEST!?In Part 1 of this special Igbo episode we put our Igbo speaking skills to the test and want you to let us know how good we are at speaking our native language from Nigeria.Also keep a look out for our upcoming Yoruba episode, withour Ugandan episode out NOW! As always, please comment below with your thoughts and don't forget to Like, Share And Subscribe
In Part 1 of this special episode we have Dymund in the studio to discss all things motherhood.As always, please comment below with your thoughts and don't forget to Like, Share And Subscribe
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the final episode of series 4, IMO speaks with Annie Gibb's, who is a care experienced female rights diversity advocate. Annie set up Amour Destine which, as you will hear, is an incredible organisation which inspires black women and girls who have experienced trauma to know that their experience does not define their future. Annie's message of embracing your destiny shone throughout this podcast. It is a great listen for anyone who wants to start 2024 feeling inspired to create positive change. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers that gives a voice to the diverse experiences that make up the care population. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the 4th episode of series 4, Luke talks to IMO about the experience he has gained from pushing himself to try every opportunity that comes his way, this includes joining the Children's Commissioner's Care Experienced Advisory Board and a placement at Durham County Council. His drive to try new things helped him come up with the idea of creating supply packs for children entering care and to pitch for and obtain funding from Durham County Council. Luke's story speaks to the importance of seizing opportunities and being ambitious as a care experience young person. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers that gives a voice to the diverse experiences that make up the care population. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the third episode of series 4 of the IMO Podcast, Rebekah reflects on her experience of social workers both as a child in care and now as a professional working in the industry. She also talks about misconceptions of being in care, her views on whether care experience should be a protected characteristic and and offers advice for children in care and care leavers. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers that gives a voice to the diverse experiences that make up the care population. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the second episode of series 4, Louise talks to IMO about being a single mum whilst working as a full time civil servant, the challenges she has faced throughout her life in care including discrimination and lack of support, and her message of self-belief and how leaning on support networks can help care leavers who are navigating the transition to adulthood. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers that gives a voice to the diverse experiences that make up the care population. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the first episode of series 4, Isatu talks to IMO about her story, her work with Amour Destiné, and how resilience and a positive mindset can help young people navigate their way through adversity. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers that gives a voice to the diverse experiences that make up the care population. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations.
It's the last week of the Halloween talk series and we end things with my beautiful wife Melissa and our cousin Erica. We talk about everything Halloween from movies, to memories and more. We even get Erica's opinion of the new Halloween Ends movie. End the series with this fun discussion with family right here on the IMO Podcast!!!
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In episode five of series 3, Scarlett talks to IMO about the powerful animations she's created about her own and others journeys through the foster care system, being separated from her family and siblings, and the compromises the system causes you to make. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series three continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
In the forth episode of series 3, Ric Flo talks to us about having a creative or physical outlet as therapy, representation in music and managing relationships with foster carers and biological family. He also shares what inspired him and powerful advice for achieving your goals. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series three continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the third episode of series 3, Isabelle talks to us about her 'corporate parents' breaking up with her via text, her work using art to make a difference and the importance of having ownership of your story and your identity. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series three continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Three years ago Ashley Jean-Baptiste joined us to talk about his experiences and career. In the second episode of series 3 Ashley is back and talks to us about ambition and founding Be Inspired, an annual event for care experienced young people to take hold of their futures. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series three continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In the first episode of series 3 we talk to Jerome about how the suicide of a close friend inspired him to set up The Tope Project, a loving space for care leavers to combat loneliness. He also talks about his journey of healing the traumas he experienced in the care system and living with peace and joy in his present. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series three continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Jojo talks to the IMO podcast about his experience of moving out and living alone at 18. He shares his advice for care leavers who are thinking about going to university, and chats about how to keep moving forward when you feel stuck. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
In this episode we chat to three care leavers about the upcoming festive season, and what this time of the year is like for them. Elle, Jojo and David discuss dealing with Christmas wobbles and feelings of grief and loss, and they share their advice on how to navigate what can often be a tricky time for care leavers. Wherever you are this Christmas, we hope you're able to enjoy it as much as you can, and we wish you a happy and healthy New Year. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers, shining a light on their experiences. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
Welcome back to the IMO Podcast! on this episode the crew dives into the battle of Xbox vs PS5. Which console they will be buying, which games they are excited for, and price points.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Episode Notes Zara talks to the IMO podcast about her experience of starting university during the Covid-19 pandemic, why she decided not to take a gap year, and how her time in foster care inspired her to qualify as a social worker. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
Welcome back to the IMO Podcast brought to you by, DJ Auxxcord, Sundance Lee, and L.In this episode recurring guest Rico is back, Sundance talks about the current state of affairs (0:50) Rico dives into a shooting incident around his place of residence (3:24) the crew discusses the increase in gun ownership (8:20). The dive into Joe Rogan's most recent popular guest Kanye West and Alex Jones with their thoughts on the episodes (29:54) and (40:30) finally they five out their predictions to the upcoming elections (1:03).
Ciji shares the leadership principles she focuses on in business and in life.
On this episode of the IMO Podcast brought to you by Dj Auxxcord, Sundance_lee, and 'L' DJ Auxxcord opens up with a tribute to his childhood Doctor! he goes to great lengths of what kind of man he was and what he meant to all the children he worked with (0:21) Sundance Lee Briefly revisits Breonna Taylor acknowledging his premature analysis of the case, realizing the whole thing is just FUCKED (7:01) The crew dives deep into one of their favorite topics that they ramble on about on and off the podcast their top Music selections recently (21:44) and their regrets when not taking the opportunity to watch their favorite artist live (42:04)
Welcome back to the IMO Podcast! On this episode brought to you by DJ Auxxcord, Sundance Lee and L. Auxxcord opens up with his recent music choices (0:24) the crew gives their insight on the recent presidential debate, (12:40) Sundance and Auxxcord discuss their views on voting (36:09) Sundance discusses his thoughts on voting, and President Trump getting Corona (53:21)
Ciji shares about her experience launching a podcast and getting it to 50 episodes!
Ciji shares about posture and how to know how you show up in your world
Ciji answers questions about building credibility, ebbs and flows, and overcoming adversity.
On this episode of the IMO Podcast, the crew starts off with the continuous hot topic of Law Enforcement (0:17) Auxxcord and Sundance discuss the recent cop shooting at point-blank range in California (12:45) Auxxcord breaks down what's going on with Kanye West (21:00) The crew discusses Joe Budden and Joe Rogan's podcast deals and the importance of having ownership (23:44) and how important it is for an artist to own his or her masters (37:35)
Ciji Siddons and Vicki Pollack talk all things posture and how to build it
The difference between an amateur and a professional in network marketing with Ciji Siddons
Ciji shares about the book Infinite Self and some of the practices she's taken on.
Ciji shares her top tips for getting out of a funk.
Ciji shares what it looks like to go all in on something
Ciji answers questions about building community, investing, and network marketing
Episode 22 is off with a bang on the IMO Podcast, Auxxcord covers the CDC guidelines for having sex, the crew and guest Rico reflect on "1,000 was to die." (0:34) Auxxcord gets into it about the stupidity of even considering Kanye for president, and who are the possible ways the crew will vote in November (2:41) what's the deal with "fake news" does fake news just mean anything someone can boldly claim? (7:33), who does the crew like when it comes to candidates (16:50) and finally the crew dives into the means and importance of having the right people around you as you get older (41:15) and who is better Cole or Kendrick (52:05)
Ciji shares how to effectively organize an accountability group that works.
Sacoya Jenkins shares her experience being a black female business owner.
Abby O'Neil shares about why belief has been the most important factor in building her network marketing business and how to build it
On this episode of the IMO Podcast brought to you by DJ Auxxcord, Sundance Lee, and "L" the crew goes over Vanessa Guillen's disappearance (0:41), defunding the police (18:33), L digs into Tik Tok Security and if it is a smart choice to have (34:31), L also goes in on a few ways you can protect your privacy, the little steps you can take to have a peace of mind (41:40)
Ciji shares her tops tips to building your credibility in your network
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Max and Brandon discuss what life is like in a children's home and their unexpected friendship. They tell us about their first night in care, and why they're the new Ant and Dec. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. The first series shines a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
Ciji and her brother Todd share their daily nonnegotiables.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Care leaver Charlotte talks to the IMO Podcast about the importance of advocacy, accessing mental health support and moving into semi-independent living. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series two continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Louise talks to the IMO Podcast about loneliness and isolation in the care system, the importance of supporting care leavers to study at postgraduate level, and her experience of building relationships at university. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. Series two continues to shine a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
The IMO Podcast is back with a second series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. We want to give care experienced young people a place to tell their stories. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage people in similar situations. About IMO (in my opinion): IMO represents the voices of teenagers in care and care leavers. It's somewhere you can share stories, experiences and achievements, get and give advice, and find loads of great free stuff! We share blogs, vlogs, podcasts and more from teens in care, and we link Children in Care Councils in England together around common campaigns, to amplify your voice and make a real difference. We also share opportunities for care leavers, like jobs and apprenticeships, and we give away loads of free stuff! IMO was created by the Children's Commissioner for England in collaboration with an advisory network of teens with care experience. If you'd like to join this network and have a say in how IMO is run, get in touch at https://imohub.org.uk/about/
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Steven is a care leaver who is training to be a social worker. He tells us how growing up in care has shaped the kind of social worker he wants to be. We discuss how little time families are given to change when they are under social services assessment and reflect on the lack of aspiration on behalf of care leavers from those who are supposed to inspire them. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. The first series shines a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
We met Rihanna through CHIVA, a foundation that supports young people living with HIV. Rihanna tells us what it's like to grow up with HIV in England. She tells us about the change in support when she turned 18 and we hear about the challenges and excitement of leaving foster care to go to university. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. The first series shines a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
We met Nathaniel and Victoria through an organisation called Siblings Together. Nathaniel and Victoria are not related but they both were separated from their brothers and sisters when being taken into care. They tell us what that separation feels like and give us an insight into contact arrangements. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. The first series shines a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Ryan tells The IMO Podcast why he chose to read his care files and how it's changed his perspective on being in care. We hear about his voluntary work in the LGBT community and he spills the beans on some of the celebrity interviews he's done as a journalist. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. The first series shines a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
Ella talks to the IMO Podcast about how she feels she was criminalised to manage her behaviour in children's homes. She chats about bouncing back from results that don't go your way and holding workers to account by turning up to LAC reviews with a copy of the legislation. The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. The first series shines a light on the experiences of children in care and care leavers. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage others in similar situations. You can find out more about the series at www.imohub.org.uk/podcast.
The IMO Podcast - open and honest conversations with care leavers
The IMO Podcast is a series of open and honest conversations with care leavers. We want to give care experienced young people a place to tell their stories. Each episode we invite someone who's been in care to talk about anything they like. It's an opportunity to hear the voices of people who often don't get the chance to tell their stories, and it's a chance to inspire and encourage people in similar situations. About IMO (in my opinion): IMO represents the voices of teenagers in care and care leavers. It's somewhere you can share stories, experiences and achievements, get and give advice, and find loads of great free stuff! We share blogs, vlogs, podcasts and more from teens in care, and we link Children in Care Councils in England together around common campaigns, to amplify your voice and make a real difference. We also share opportunities for care leavers, like jobs and apprenticeships, and we give away loads of free stuff! IMO was created by the Children's Commissioner for England in collaboration with an advisory network of teens with care experience. If you'd like to join this network and have a say in how IMO is run, get in touch at https://imohub.org.uk/about/