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**Adult Content, NOT for little EARS!**Continuing on in the theme of 'Enough...' The Two Jess(es) have had ENOUGH of several things, just to name a few: tinkling when they sneeze, peeing themselves when they laugh too hard, having to pee more than 14 times a day and the perpetual dryness, 'down there.'ENOUGH already!Dr. Gopi takes this episode to a whole new level with an in-depth visit to 'Vagina Town.' She explains then ins and outs (pun intended!) of the often overlooked importance of pelvic health, details the signs and symptoms that could be a result of problems with the pelvis, and well, just has a lot of fun talking about it all. In her words: 'her job is to help people enjoy sex again!' And she LOVES it!TTJ(es) have a lot of fun with this incredibly informative conversation. Even if the word Vagina, (and dicks) makes you uncomfortable, stick with it- and take a ride to Vagina Town with Dr. Gopi- there is help out there for us all!Meet Dr. Gopi!Gopi was born and raised in New York and graduated from Stony Brook University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2003 at which time her interest in Women's Health began. She eventually moved to Brooklyn, where she started the first Women's Health PT program at a major hospital. Gopi went on to open a private practice in Brooklyn, specializing in male and female pelvic health for 8 years until her family life brought her to Northern Virginia.She started Blueprint Physical Therapy in January of 2019 and has loved getting to know her new surroundings while providing in home visits around DC, Maryland and Virginia. She is dedicated to continuing education and is a teacher, teaching assistant and lecturer for providers of many disciplines and for the community. She's also a wife and mom of a 4 and 5 year old and just added a pandemic puppy to her family.http://blueprintphysicaltherapy.comSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Dr. Joshua Kefer brings decades of experience to this conversation with The Two Jess(es). Packed full of helpful information, this episode is also equal parts a therapy session as Dr. Kefer alleviates many of Jess and Jess' fears about the psychological impact the current pandemic, and virtual school setting may be causing for our children.Dr. Kefer reminds us to pay attention to how we may be projecting our own fears and anxieties onto what our children are really experiencing, and brings with him a beautiful reminder to find something to tether ourselves to, because our children are tethering to us. If you are scared about how this is all affecting your school/college aged children, then spend some time with Dr. Kefer, he will make you feel like it really is going to be alright. Resource List:Check out Dr. Kefer's Recommendations!Mental Health ResourcesHealthy Minds BlogHealthy Minds PodcastEAP Resources for StaffKognito TrainingsSelf-Care:§ Coping with Stress§ Self-Care During COVIDCommunity TreatmentCommunity Service Board – Mental Health Concernshttps://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/about/merrifield-centerMobile Crisishttps://www.cr2crisis.com/ Online Resources and ToolsAmerican Psychological Association (resources)https://www.apa.org/topics/covid-19 National Association of School Psychologist (resources)https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/helping-children-cope-with-changes-resulting-from-covid-19 Virginia Department of Health (resources)https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/CDC – Resources for anxietyhttps://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managinSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Whether you can't live without pups in your life or not, this conversation is nothing but FEEL GOOD. Kathy Callahan, the matchmaker who actually introduced The Two Jess(es) way back when, shares her heart and experience with us as she recounts what it has been like to foster 175 puppies to date. Kathy candidly shares her journey to where she is now, and what she would describe as her 'best and highest use.' Her book, 101 Rescue Puppies: One Family's Story of Fostering Dogs, Love and Trust, is available for order on September 29,2020 and it is filled with Kathy's beautiful photos, capturing the essence of who she is and what she is able to offer the world. Kathy is inspiring in the best kind of way and all the puppies and families she has touched with her work remain faithfully supportive and follow her around, just like her puppies do!Meet Kathy!Kathy Callahan is the author of 101 Rescue Puppies: One Family’s Story of Fostering Dogs, Love, and Trust. She’s a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) who specializes in puppyhood coaching in Alexandria, Virginia. (She and her family continue to foster puppies amid their own furry pack.) More at www.puppypicks.com.Buy Kathy's book here:https://www.amazon.com/101-Rescue-Puppies-Familys-Fostering/dp/1608686566/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2F9VI206T2PUP&dchild=1&keywords=kathy+callahan&qid=1601248170&s=books&sprefix=kathy+callahan%2Cstripbooks%2C134&sr=1-1https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/101-rescue-puppies-kathryn-gord-callahan/1136390637?ean=9781608686568https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781608686568Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Looking for the silver lining in a difficult situation can be a great coping mechanism, but sometimes, it can actually become toxic. The Two Jess(es) talk with toxic positivity experts and therapists Dr. Jamie Long and Samara Quientero on what toxic positivity looks like, how it shows up in our lives and conversations, and how it can negatively impact the way we deal with stress and hardship in our lives. Meet Dr. Jamie Long!Dr. Jamie Long is a licensed clinical psychologist and co-owner of a boutique psychology practice, The Psychology Group Fort Lauderdale. For over 14 years, Dr. Long has served the South Florida community with her dedication to helping individuals lead meaningful lives and achieve mental wellness. Her mission is to change the way people think about mental health therapy. She wants you to know that participating in therapy is a healthy habit and an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Long specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and relationship issues.Meet Samara Quintero!Samara Quintero is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Hypnotherapist practicing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Her mission is to help individuals resolve issues that have kept them from having the deeply fulfilling lives that they are deserving of. She specializes in working with trauma, anxiety, depression and relationships issues. Samara's therapeutic approach is unique in that she incorporates hypnosis, mindfulness, and an overall holistic perspective to create long lasting change in her client's lives.https://thepsychologygroup.com/toxic-positivity/Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) have the immense privilege of sitting down to talk with author of the #1 New York Times Bestselling author of Dear Madam President, to discuss her newest work: She Proclaims: Our Declaration of Independence from a Man's World. This is is not a man-haters hour, but rather, an episode filled to the brim with all the important observations that have led Jennifer to asking some uncomfortable questions about why things work the way they do for women in a man's world-or rather, really, why and how they do NOT work. Jennifer's experiences serving under the Obama administration as the White House Communications Director, and then as the head of Communications for the Hillary Clinton campaign offer ALL of us, valuable insight into the state of gender limitations in the professional realm and beyond. Meet Jennifer!Jennifer Palmieri is a writer and one of the most accomplished communications advisors in politics today. Author of the number 1 New York Times bestseller Dear Madam President, Jennifer was White House Communications Director for President Obama and head of Communications for the Hillary Clinton presidential campaign. Having served in the West Wing for 12 years under President Obama and President Clinton she has an unparalleled level of understanding in how US Presidents communicate in a complex media environment. And as someone who worked on the campaign of the first female Democratic nominee, Jennifer has a unique perspective on how media and voters treat women in powerful positions. She is also a guest host of Showtime’s The Circus and a contributing editor to Vanity Fair. Purchase https://www.amazon.com/She-Proclaims-Declaration-Independence-World/dp/1538750651https://www.vanityfair.com/contributor/jennifer-palmieriSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
This is the talisman episode by which The Two Jess(es) are building WeSTAT's Season 2 around- exploring what it means to be ENOUGH, to have ENOUGH, to want ENOUGH, to say ENOUGH. This conversation with writer and creator of the massively successful food blog Gluten-Free Girl is everything we need as we begin this next season of pandemic life. Shauna exudes wisdom and ease, as she shares with TTJ(es) her experiences, practices and realizations on what is really and truly enough for our kids, our families, ourselves.Find a space of quiet, pull out your journal and make yourself a cup of tea, because this episode is full of quotes and simple, yet profound thoughts you will want to read over and over again. Meet Shauna!Shauna James Ahern is the author of the cookbook, Gluten-Free Girl and the Chef, named one of the best cookbooks of 2010 by The New York Times, and the food memoir, Gluten-Free Girl. She is also the author, photographer, and head baker at Gluten-Free Girl and the Chef, her much-loved food website (www.glutenfreegirl.com), which she creates with her chef husband, Daniel Ahern. Her work has been published or recognized by The New York Times, Gourmet, Bon Appetit, Epicurious, Babble, The Guardian, Gilt Taste, CNN's Eatocracy, and The Washington Post. Her latest cookbook, Gluten-Free Girl Everyday, was nominated for a James Beard award. She and her husband, with their two children, live on Vashon Island, where they are probably cooking something as you read this. You can support Shauna by subscribing to her blog @:https://enough.substack.com/aboutPurchase Enough @https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Notes-Woman-Finally-Found/dp/1632172178/ref=sr_1_1?crid=N0SZ0G4XYL9A&dchild=1&keywords=enough+notes+from+a+woman+who+has+finally+found+it&qid=1599408626&sprefix=enough%3A+notes%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) are 60 episodes in, and after a brief 'mini-break' through August, they are ready to bring you more! This season we will be looking at the word 'Enough' in all its many layers, complexities and sides. Join us as we hold space for one another, challenge the idea of what Enough is, and through the process, learn how to better care for ourselves and each other.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Who out there spent their 20's (and 30's) watching Carrie Bradshaw traipse around NYC in designer stilettos with her gal pals, downing cosmos and breaking hearts along the way? If this is a pop culture touchstone for you, then you will certainly get a kick out of this conversation! The Two Jess(es) sit down to talk with the creator of Sex and the City, Candace Bushnell, and ask: Is there STILL SEX IN THE CITY? As women like (or unlike!) Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Miranda approach their glorious middle age, Candace, in her typically hilarious style, shares with us her experiences and findings, which she has chronicled in her book: Is There Still Sex In the City? The three cover subjects like 'cubbing' not to be confused with 'cougaring,' the Mona Lisa Treatment, and what it feels like to be dating or not dating, after you have spent many decades dedicated to marriage, children, career, and now find yourself single. Many uncomfortable moments as these three ladies contemplate the fact that EVERYONE is having less sex...but why? Meet Candace:Candace Bushnell is the critically acclaimed, internationally bestselling author of Sex and the City, Lipstick Jungle, The Carrie Diaries, One Fifth Avenue, Trading Up, Four Blondes, Summer and the City, and Killing Monica. Sex and the City, published in 1996, was the basis for the HBO hit series and two subsequent blockbuster movies. Lipstick Jungle became a popular television series on NBC, as did The Carrie Diaries on the CW.https://www.amazon.com/There-Still-Sex-City-ebook/dp/B07NF9F12J/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2QUDXDUTVLKKS&dchild=1&keywords=is+there+still+sex+in+the+city+book&qid=1598230812&s=books&sprefix=is+there+sti%2Caps%2C139&sr=1-1Sponsor Info:Just Dance-Serious Training for the Young Dancerrhttp://5678justdance.com/Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Following an article written by Chabeli Carranza from The 19th* a non-profit, non-partisan newsroom that is committed to empower women, people of color, and those historically underserved by American media — with the information, resources and community they need to be equal participants in democracy, The Two Jess(es) sit down with Chabeli and talk about the first female recession of American women since they began entering the workforce in the middle of WWII. Presently, at the height of women leading as the majority in the American work world (50.4%) they have been hardest hit by the recession that America is facing as a result of COVID-19. With the loss of childcare support, school closings and female dominated industries that are just plain disappearing, Chabeli brings us stark statistics and details from her findings on the impact this global crisis is having on women in general, but predominately women of color and underrepresented groups. Or more accurately, the truth of the inequity which is still a reality for women as workers in the American workforce, and how COVID is uncovering the difficult to acknowledge truth of it all.Check out Chabeli's article!https://19thnews.org/2020/08/americas-first-female-recession/Meet Chabeli:Chabeli Carrazana is the women and the economy reporter for The 19th*. Previously, she worked as a business reporter for the Miami Herald, where she covered the tourism industry, and the Orlando Sentinel, where she covered NASA, the private space industry and labor issues.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Where HAVE all the tomboys gone? And can we really use that word anymore? What does it actually mean? The Two Jess(es) have an incredibly thought provoking conversation with writer and researcher, Lisa Selin Davis, a modern day tomboy expert, and author of the newly released book, Tomboy: The Surprising History and Future of Girls Who Dare to be Different.This conversation addresses the issues and challenges around gender non-conformity as well as the labels that we use to define gender, behaviors, and the refusal of being boxed in. Davis points out how the concept of 'Tomboyism' is actually steeped in racism and white privilege, and how gender identity is largely perpetuated by capitalism, not biology. An interesting conversation for those who are curious and want to expand their vocabulary and knowledge around gender non-conformity.Show Notes:Meet Lisa!LISA SELIN DAVIS is an essayist, novelist, and journalist who has written for major publications such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Guardian, Time, Yahoo, and Salon, among many others. She lives with her family in New York. Davis continues to write for major publications such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Women's Day, Bustle, Salon, Yahoo, Time Out, and more, and her articles often open the door to both debate and celebration. Most recently, in December 2018, another article she wrote for the New York Times, “Like Tomboys and Hate Girlie Girls? That's Sexist,” went viral and sparked almost 400 comments. In 2017, her Guardian article “For Years I Thought She Was Stealing My Identity Until I Found Her” sparked 551 comments and record-breaking shares for the paper.Purchase Lisa's book!https://www.amazon.com/Tomboy-Surprising-History-Future-Different-ebook/dp/B07XDL5WMXSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Over this week, our social media feeds have been flooded with the beautiful black and white selfies of over 53 million women with the hashtag #challengeaccepted.The Two Jess(es) dive deep into why, JessK, who is a classic 6 on the Enneagram, felt hesitant about participating. Turns out her skepticism has led her down the rabbit hole of information on what this Black and White Challenge has really been all about. Hashtags, "slacktivism" and some good old WeSTAT introspection for the last minisode of the season!Show Notes:https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/27/style/challenge-accepted-instagram.htmlSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Calling ALL Gen X women, and those who love them! The Two Jess(es) have the amazing opportunity to sit down for a really honest conversation with Ada Calhoun, New York Time's Bestselling author of Why We Can't Sleep: Women's New Midlife Crisis. These three Gen Xers get really honest really fast about all the stress of the mental load (pre AND post COVID) the physical exhaustion of middle age, and offer confessions about the weird things they worry about in those wee restless hours in the middle of the night!Ada brings a fresh perspective, that against all odds, is hopeful for women who are feeling overwhelmed by middle age, menopause, homeschooling, worrying about their wrinkles and retirement. This book is a MUST READ and this conversation is the perfect primer.Show Notes:Meet Ada Calhoun!Ada Calhoun is author of the New York Times bestseller Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis, an expansion of her viral story for Oprah.com and a “generation-defining exploration of the new midlife crisis facing Gen X women and the unique circumstances that have brought them to this point.”Calhoun’s last two books, both named Amazon Books of the Month, were the New York City history St. Marks Is Dead: The Many Lives of America’s Hippest Street, and the memoir Wedding Toasts I’ll Never Give.Named one of the top ten memoirs of 2017, Wedding Toasts I’ll Never Give was called “realistic, loving, laugh-out-loud funny” (Publishers Weekly); “graceful, hilarious” (Library Journal); “engaging, wise, lovely” (Kirkus); “original, engrossing” (New York Times Book Review); and “warm-hearted, Ephron-esque” (Washington Post). Modern Love published the book’s first serial excerpt as “To Stay Married, Embrace Change;” it reached #1 on the Most Emailed list. The book was featured twice on the Today show and named a “Hot Book” by Star. St. Marks Is Dead, a 400-year history of the New York City street where the author grew up, was called “revelatory” (Kirkus), “captivating” (Publishers Weekly), “delightful” (Wall Street Journal), “timely, provocative, and stylishly written” (Atlantic), and “an ecstatic roll call” (New York Times Book Review). The New Yorker online published the first serial excerpt, and the New York Times ran this related op-ed about cities and change. A
The Two Jess(es) sit down with Portlander Joey Klei who has been participating in protests, in what is quickly becoming the epicenter for the Black Lives Matter movement in real time. For 50+ days straight, Portland has been fighting racial injustice, but now has moved into demanding their right to free speech, which is scarily being silenced by the government, and Joey is there to live stream it all.Continuing on in our intention to have conversations around the issues concerning racial justice, this is a great conversation highlighting the work that Portlanders who LOVE their country are facing in terms of their rights to free speech and to practice peaceful protest. Portlanders will not be silenced and as this movement spreads across the USA, we will keep talking about.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
This has been a WEEK. JessB recounts her success, albeit uncomfortably, at achieving a huge goal with recording her TEDx talk (live streams 7/18!) and The Two Jess(es) discuss their final decisions regarding COVID school. Show Notes:If you are interested in viewing JessB giving her TEDx talk, you can purchase tickets here:https://www.ted.com/tedx/events/38018Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
It's all parents of school aged children can think about....their kids and school. Virtual, two days a week, homeschool? Will they stay in school, will they fall behind? Why are the schools making the decisions they are making and what do they have to say about them? Following the Secretary of Education's declaration that all schools should open in person, regardless of the current climbing pandemic, The Two Jess(es) sit down with two Fairfax County School Board members to get their take on the current crisis, and how it is affecting our kids.This is an honest and at moments, uncomfortable conversation that must be had.Show Notes:Meet Rachna!Rachna Sizemore Heizer is one of three At-Large Fairfax County School Board Members, the 10th largest school system in the United States in a county of over 1 million residents. She is the first Indian American person and first Asian American woman elected to a Fairfax County wide office. She is also the Program Coordinator of the Human Resource Development minor program and teaches employment law, leadership, and diversity and cultural competency online at Texas Tech University. She received both her Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy and her law degree from the University of California at Berkeley and started her career as a corporate and employment lawyer. She has served on numerous community boards and spent over twelve years as a disability justice advocate, working with state and federal officials on education policy and criminal justice issues. Her goals on the school board are to bring a voice to those students who most need it while ensuring a strengths-focused and interdisciplinary education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving. Meet Laura Jane!Laura Jane Cohen was sworn into office as the Springfield District School Board Member on December 12, 2019. Laura Jane grew up in Marietta, Georgia and is the daughter and granddaughter of public school teachers.After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in Political Science, Laura Jane worked for the Lt. Governor and Secretary of State of Georgia. When she and her husband moved to Fairfax County in 2001, Laura Jane became the Director of Outreach for a National Parkinson’s nonprofit. Having two kids brought her back to her teaching roots. Laura Jane taught preschool for several years before becoming a long-term substitute teacher for Fairfax County Public Schools. Laura Jane also served on the Cherry Run Elementary School PTA for eight years, three years as Staff Relations Chair, two terms as PTA President, and as the liaison to the Fairfax County Council of PTAs. She is currently a proud member of the Lake Braddock PTSA.Laura Jane is a proud volunteer with Moms Demand Action and has also served on the Fairfax County Democratic Committee’s LGBTQ+ Committee. She also served on the Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee as well as the Disputed Materials Committee for the FCPS School Board. In addition to her advocacy work, Laura Jane opened a vintage home decor shop in Clifton in 2015 and enjoys restoring furniture in her free time. Laura Jane and her husband, Seth, live in Burke with their two kids, two dogs, and Laura Jane’s mom.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Dr. Rachel was such a hit on Monday, so The Two Jess(es) asked her to come back and answer questions submitted by the WeSTAT Community. If you are on the fence about whether or not it is safe for your child to go back to school this fall, or you are wondering whether it is advisable to get on an airplane, Dr. Rachel has her opinions, and the infectious disease science to back them up!Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
This is the kind of conversation that makes podcasting #worthit. The Two Jess(es) sit down with the ultimate bad ass and the 'NRA's #1 Enemy', Shannon Watts. Founder of the grassroots organization Moms Demand Action, described as a 'movement of Americans fighting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence.' They pass stronger gun laws and work to close the loopholes that jeopardize the safety of our families. Shannon is the author of Fight Like a Mother: How a Grassroots Movement Took on the Gun Lobby and Why Women Will Change the World, and works tirelessly to empower women through her work with Emerge America in order to train and recruit women to run for office.This conversation runs deep on some of the hardest issues to discuss right now. Privilege, equality, school shootings, gun sense as opposed to gun control, and fighting the NRA one mom organized lemonade stand at a time, are just a few.Show Notes: Meet Shannon!Shannon Watts is a mother of five who, prior to founding Moms Demand Action, was a stay-at-home mom and former communications executive. The day after the Sandy Hook tragedy, Shannon started a Facebook group with the message that all Americans can and should do more to reduce gun violence. The online conversation turned into a grassroots movement of Americans fighting for public safety measures that protect people from gun violence. Moms Demand Action has established a chapter in every state of the country and is part of Everytown for Gun Safety, the largest gun violence prevention organization in the country, with nearly 6 million supporters. In addition to her work with Moms Demand Action, Watts is an active board member of Emerge America, one of the nation’s leading organizations for recruiting and training women to run for office.https://www.amazon.com/Fight-like-Mother-Grassroots-Movement/dp/0062892568https://momsdemandaction.org/about/https://emergeamerica.org/Local Alexandria Chapter of Moms Demand Actionhttps://www.facebook.com/MomsDemandActionVA/Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) get a chance to chat with their friend and WeSTAT community member, Deirdre Taylor, about working on the front lines of COVID in New York City as a travel nurse for the last two months. Deirdre details her experience working with some of the hardest hit populations in NYC, her reasons for going, and how her family managed in her absence.This is a hero's story within another hero's story. Deirdre shares her life long search for a fire fighter that had pulled her from a burning building as a child. While Deirdre spent the past weeks fighting for sick patients lives, she was rewarded with the phone number for HER fire fighter...after all these years. Show Notes:Deirdre Taylor resides in Alexandria, VA with her husband and two amazing children. She’s a former Army helicopter pilot who became a registered nurse after deciding to leave the military to focus on starting a family. She has spent the majority of her nursing career working in the Emergency Departments of busy, Level 1 trauma centers. https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.fox5dc.com/news/alexandria-nurse-delivers-long-delayed-thank-you-to-nyc-firefighter-who-saved-her-life-when-she-was-a-girl.amphttps://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2020/05/26/us/nyc-covid-nurse-reunion-firefighter-trnd/index.htmlhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/05/28/nurse-thanks-firefighter-new-york/https://www.nydailynews.com/coronavirus/ny-coronavirus-rescue-reunion-nurse-firefighter-20200526-s77umpqpb5ajxkppwli7bfrtam-story.htmlSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
This is the first mini in a new series called 'The Great Relearning.' The Two Jess(es) continue in the discomfort as they discuss the work they are doing around listening, learning, and re-learning. Think of this as a season dedicated to reviews of podcasts, books and other resources produced by BIPOC. Jess K discusses the podcast 'While Black' and shares her reflections on a conversation held by five black men recorded on the podcast, and Jess B shares her reaction to Lisa Sharon Harper's and Jen Hatmaker's facebook live conversation on the 'Toxic Tears of White Women.' Necessary and appropriately uncomfortable...it's the reason WeSTAT started in the first place. Show Notes:https://lisasharonharper.com/https://jenhatmaker.com/https://whileblackpodcast.podbean.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ahmaud-arbery-is-all-of-us-can-i-live/id1410001074?i=1000474291948https://jenhatmaker.com/podcast/special-edition-series/white-womens-toxic-tears-with-lisa-sharon-harper/Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
We are barely even scratching the surface here, with this conversation with Adelaide Lancaster, co-founder and director of strategy for the non-profit organization, We Stories. Based in St. Louis, We Stories aims to hold critical conversations with white families about race, racism, racial justice and health equity. The Two Jess(es) sit in the discomfort of their own realizations about their own racism, as Adelaide sheds light on what being racist actually means. Adelaide boldly brings stories of her own journey toward becoming anti-racist, and how that work has led her to creating a space for white families (in particular, but ALL are welcome!) to learn about the issues of racial injustice and inequality that they are contributing to. In less than one hour, Adelaide gives TTJ(es) a framework to use as they continue to talk to their children and white friends about racism. Holding space for each other in this uncomfortable moment, as well as for their brothers and sisters of color, Jess and Jess invite you to begin the work of necessary conversation in these moments of tension and refuse to stand complacent any longer. ***If you are a white parent who is looking for resources and support to start conversations about racial justice with your children, or continue the work you have been doing, this episode will be extremely helpful and beneficial to you.Show Notes:To find out more about We Stories:http://www.westories.org/Resources:Forward through Ferguson: https://forwardthroughferguson.org/The Conscious Kid: https://www.theconsciouskid.org/The Integrated Schools podcast: https://integratedschools.org/podcast/harvey/Raising White Kids by Jennifer Harvey: https://www.amazon.com/Raising-White-Kids-Bringing-Children/dp/1501878077/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Why are all the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria by Beverly Daniel Tatum, PhD.https://www.amazon.com/Black-Kids-Sitting-Together-Cafeteria/dp/0465060684/ref=pd_bxgy_img_3/138-0936866-5128960?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0465060684&pd_rd_r=1bcd33fa-c2c3-48a6-b220-db325a3d45c0&pd_rd_w=SYw8C&pd_rd_wg=woJay&pf_rd_p=4e3f7fc3-00c8-46a6-a4db-8457e6319578&pf_rd_r=F34A6NTA07Z2A6VPHHW5&psc=1&refRID=F34A6NTA07Z2A6VPHHW5The Big Enough Company by Adelaide Lancaster and Amy Abrams: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Enough-Company-Businesses-Happier/dp/1591845602/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+big+enough+company&qid=1591572376&s=books&sr=1-1Meet Adelaide Lancaster- Co-Founder and Director of Strategy for We Stories:Adelaide Lancaster is the co-founder and Director of Strategy for We Stories, a St. Louis-based non-profit organization that engages White families to change the conversation about and build momentum towards racial jSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) talk to three graduating high school seniors about their graduation experience in the middle of historical 2020. They candidly share some of their sadness, and their gratitude, as they talk about the things they have missed during this life milestone. Along with the sadness, there are many silver linings, and the graduates share those as well.Show Notes:Meet Kelly Ntambwe!Hi, I'm Kelly Ntambwe. I'm currently a senior at West Potomac High School but by the time you're reading this I would've "graduated" already. At school I was a part of the Colorguard, a Freshmen Peer Mentor, and a member of the Spanish Honor Society. In the fall, I am really excited to be going to Virginia Commonwealth University in the fall to study Cinema, Theatre, and French. Meet Carolyn Bloom!My name is Carolyn Bloom and I am a recent graduate of West Potomac High School. Throughout my years at West Potomac I was involved with the dance team, theatre, our schools Student Government Association as well as being involved in student leadership at the county level. I will be attending University of Georgia in the fall. Meet Brielle Brown!Hi! My name is Brielle Brown and I am graduating from West Potomac High School. During the past four years I have been a varsity cheerleader, varsity gymnast and varsity track and field runner. I am also a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Science Honor Society, Black Student Union, and Key Club. I will be attending North Carolina A&T State University as a Dowdy Scholar on a full academic scholarship. I will be studying Sports Science and Fitness Management. Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
This is THE INSPIRING HOUR of your week. The Two Jess(es) have the great honor of speaking with #MeWe International founder, Mohsin Mohi Ud Din, who at many points, leaves them both speechless, as he shares his tireless efforts to help refugees discover the crucial importance of changing their narrative through the art of story telling and communication. Mohsin believes that the ability to communicate is a human right that belongs to EVERYBODY, and that the stories we tell ourselves are what we will become. He has committed his life to serving those who have been told for generations, that they have no voice, and through innovative techniques, backed by neuroscience and experience, he continues to dispel the arrested narratives that follow all of us, throughout our lives.With beautiful thoughts like assembling a list based on the alchemy of our heroes, and passionately declaring we have the right to change our narrative whenever we want, Mohsin reminds us that that our self expression, our stories, our art, our words, are indeed, the highest form of hope. Show Notes:Mohsin Mohi Ud Din is an artist, activist, and founder of #MeWe International Inc. (#MeWeIntl), a global non-profit that builds communications and storytelling interventions for psychological wellbeing, leadership development, and community engagement. His work has received honors from the United Nations, SOLVE MIT and Open Ideo. Mohsin’s innovative work has reached thousands of people across more than 12 countries, beginning with his Fulbright Scholarship in 2010. He has been a featured speaker at the World Economic Forum, United Nations, MIT, TedX, and his work on #MeWeSyria has been published on UNHCR Innovation, VICE, and Al Jazeera. Video and short film about #MeWeIntl: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMjoyfCRgYY&feature=emb_titlehttps://meweintl.org/Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
JessB is OBSESSED with the Enneagram, and has been for over a decade, so when an opportunity to invite Lynn Turner, PhD, from the Center for Relationships came up, The Two Jess(es) couldn't wait! For those who are unfamiliar with the Enneagram, it is a way of summarizing individual temperaments and aims to lend clarity to the question: Are we nature or are we nurture?In this episode, we hear from Ms. Turner about her 25+ years working with the Enneagram, and how understanding ourselves and the way we are naturally wired can help us achieve successful relationships, both professionally and personally. Jess and Jess have a lot of fun as they identify different temperament traits about themselves, and each other. Ah ha moments are had as they begin the beautiful work of learning each other's personalities in a deeper way, as well as their own!Show Notes:Lynn Turner, Phd, LCSWDirector- A Center fro Relationshipshttp://www.ac4r.comac4alexandria@gmail.comLynn Turner is a licensed clinical social worker with both a masters and doctorate in social work. She has been the Director of A Center For Relationships, Alexandria, VA for more than 20 years. Lynn’s clinical practice includes children, adults, couples, families and groups: people of all ages. In addition, for 30 years she has been leading workshops in relationship skills and emotional processing. For our purposes today she has been teaching the Enneagram to her clients and in workshops since 1995 (25 years). Lynn will tell you her story of how she learned about the Enneagram and why she considers the Enneagram to be our innate temperament which combined with our family environment creates our personality today. In 1995 Lynn wrote a booklet on the Enneagram and updates it yearly. She is in the process of presenting a proposal for a published book based on her client, brain and energy based understanding of the Enneagram.Other interesting information about Lynn: She has had a keen interest in understanding emotions, energy and how the brain works. To this end she has studied with all the major proponents of brain research and emotions, including two quantum physicists who taught with Karl Pribram at Georgetown University (1990-1993). Lynn is also a Reiki master and chakra energy healer, both of which have increased her energy awareness. 1These studies have lead Lynn to a deeper understanding of the Enneagram: how our brain is different for each Enneagram type and how we each hold our energy differently. For instance “8” energy can be intimidating without the “8” doing anything, whereas people can almost walk through a “9” or a “2” with their gentle energy and we can be unaware of a “5” being in the room: all based on the energy emitted naturally by each Enneagram style.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) sit down for a very enjoyable 30 minutes to talk with Jane Andraka, the energetic mother to two Wonder Kids. Jane's youngest son, Jack, discovered an early detection test for pancreatic cancer, and is currently using his talents and skills to help in the war against COVID-19. He is an author and professional speaker, as well as the winner of many prestigious awards. In this conversation, Jane offers a perspective shift in the midst of an educational crisis, promoting the idea that we are actually in the middle of an incredible opportunity to really get to know our kids and what they are passionate about. She encourages parents to pay attention, and serves as a reminder that we are indeed responsible for our children's education, or at least to supplement it. While this could cause a wave of discomfort, she is also endearing in her parenting approach as she encourages parents, mentors, guardians, to savor even the harder moments with their young ones. Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) have the extreme pleasure to sit down with the HILARIOUS podcast host and author, John Moe to talk about...DEPRESSION. As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, John Moe's fourth book entitled The Hilarious World of Depression becomes the center of this episode. John is refreshingly candid about his life long struggle with depression, and shares the methods that work for HIM. He talks with JessK and JessB about the many misconceptions around depression and those who fight daily to keep their heads above water. Through analogies and story telling, John explains how he is able to keep working in his purpose- helping us all find a way to exhale in the middle of depression, through laughter, even if we can't get out of bed.Show Notes:John Moe has served as host of national public radio broadcasts such as WeekendAmerica, Marketplace Tech Report and, from 2010- 2015, Wits. His reporting has been heard on All Things Considered, Morning Edition, Marketplace, Day to Day, and more. His writing appears in humor anthologies, The New York Times Magazine, McSweeney’s, and The Seattle Times. He’s a much in-demand public speaker and the author of multiple books, including The Hilarious World of Depression.To find out more about John and his work: https://www.johnmoe.website/The Hilarious World of Depression available anywhere you can buy books(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0818PT5TD/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0)twitter: @johnmoeinstagram: @johnmoeSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) had so much fun, with author Jenn Folsom (Ringmaster: Work, Life and Keeping it All Together) they asked her to come back and help them unpack they mystery of LinkedIn. Jenn offers practical advice on keeping your resume with minimal gaps and relevant, regardless of your current work situation. Jenn brings her trademark humor and wit to the conversation, as well as some really useful tips for those looking to join the 'Land of W-2s.'Show Notes:Jennifer Folsom is a dynamic, high-energy leader with a proven record of growing all sizes of professional services firms while growing a family. She is the Vice President of Client Delivery at RIVA Solutions Inc., a Washington, DC- based IT management consulting firm. A human capital expert, she leverages a people-centered approach to drive revenue in organizations from start-up to Big 4. An-oft quoted expert in corporate culture, Jennifer promotes the notion that the multiple in firm valuation starts with the people. Her colleagues cite one of her greatest strengths as the “ability to cut through the noise to solve an issue.” She's also the mom of 3 sons, 17-year-old twins and a 12-year old-firecracker. Wife. Daughter. Sister. Friend. Yogi. Old lady soccer team player. Amateur farm-to-table chef. Vegetable gardener. Paddle boarder. Bourbon lover. Runner. Reader. Writer. Jennifer loves her work but knows that living your whole best life is the ultimate key to success. To Learn More: Website: jenniferfolsom.netEmail: jenniferfolsom@thefolsoms.netInstagram: @jennifercfolsomFacebook: The Ringmaster Project Twitter: @jenniferfolsom Medium: @jenn.folsom LinkedIn: @jenniferfolsom Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Continuing on with their remote conversations, TTJ(es) chat with Rachel Kois (like the fish, plural!) from Simple Switch, a company that believes in having a 'quantifiable impact on the world and the people in it.'Rachel walks The Two Jess(es) through the process and reality, of where their dollars go when spent with Simple Switch, her idea for making positive impact shopping effortless for all of us out there who don't have time to do the research around ethical purchasing, and shares inspiring stories about all the incredible initiatives we can be a part of when we buy everyday household items through Simple Switch.Show Notes: ***All WeSTAT community members will receive 20% off their first order at www.simpleswitch.org!***About Rachel: Rachel Kois is the Founder and CEO of Simple Switch (simpleswitch.org) an online marketplace for ethical and impactful shopping. She believes fiercely that our everyday shopping can change the world, so she started Simple Switch to make sure there is a solid option for conscious consumers that matches the convenience of modern online shopping. She’s made friends in 28 countries and grew up with the beautiful Colorado mountains as her playground, so taking care of our planet and the people on it are very important to her.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) are joined with the ever entertaining Mary Payne Gilbert, host of the podcast 'Payne In the Pod' and co-host of 'Hey Bunkie.' If you are into learning more about the 'MUST HEAR' podcasts and (let's be honest, we all are) binge worthy series like 'Tiger King,' then Mary Payne has a LOT to say about All.The.Things. A lighter mini that offers some ever 'helpful' information in these days of quarantine, you will leave this conversation with your interest piqued and a long list of things to watch while sheltering in place. Show Notes:Find Mary Payne Gilbert at:https://payneinthepod.comhttps://www.patreon.com/heybunkiehttps://www.facebook.com/PayneInThePod/https://www.instagram.com/payneinthepod/?hl=enSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
In a time where the majority of us are undoubtedly using alcohol to soothe our weary and nervous minds, The Two Jess(es) sit down with special guest, Martha Carucci, creator of the blog Sobrietease (www.sobrietease.wordpress.com) and author of Sobrietease (https://www.amazon.com/Sobrietease-Martha-Carucci/dp/0692686908/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=sobrietease&qid=1585406822&sr=8-1) and her upcoming sequel, Sobrietease II: Make it a Double to talk about...ALCOHOL.This episode goes deep into Martha's struggle with addiction to alcohol, the moment she finally surrendered to her own personal truth, and celebrates the community of women that brought her to her nearly eight years (and still going strong) of sobriety. Martha offers the retelling of her own experience as a beautiful example of the strength it takes to turn one's own 'mess into a message' in a way that certainly will leave you feeling accepted, strengthened and inspired. Show Notes: Martha Carucci is an author/blogger who lives in Alexandria, VA with her husband and three children. She spent many years as a lobbyist for the telecommunications industry and is currently the Executive Director of the National Breast Center Foundation. She studied at the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard and Georgetown. Martha’s first book, Sobrietease, was the #1 New Release on Amazon for Alcoholism and Recovery. Her second book, Sobrietease 2: Make It a Double, is due out this summer. She continues to write her blog and is currently working on a novel. Martha Carucci has appeared on numerous television and radio shows, including Great Day Washington, The Dee Armstrong Show, The Chad Benson Show and the Mike Schikman Show. Her writing has been featured in many publications, including The Chicago Sun Times, BrazenWoman.com, WomenYouShouldKnow.com, and The Tamed Cynic. She speaks to various groups and audiences about alcoholism and her recovery. Martha was awarded the City of Alexandria Commission for Women’s “Women’s Health and Safety Advocate Award.” She is an avid golfer and tennis player and active volunteer in the community. Visit Martha's blog Sobrietease at www.sobrietease.wordpress.orgOn Facebook at @sobrieteaseblogOn Instagram at @SobrieteaseSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) could NOT pass up an opportunity to discuss why everyone is buying so much toilet paper and what to do if school does NOT get cancelled. Bringing in special guest, Liz Fontaine, these three ladies have a head scratching conversation about whether or not they should shake a stranger's hand or drink Corona beer. Show Notes:Liz references a statistic that reports 38% of Americans polled think Corona beer is somehow related to the corona virus. https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.barrons.com/amp/articles/americans-say-they-wont-drink-corona-because-of-coronavirus-but-sales-are-up-5-51583610529Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
***WARNING*** SUBJECT IS INFANT LOSS***In this episode, The Two Jess(es) sit down and connect over a conversation with designer Sara Raak of SKG Design and Styles about the loss of her son, Bennett. With love, Sara discusses the harsh realities of being a NICU mom, TWICE, and explains how she has turned her pain into a source of pride as she continues to allow others into the extraordinary journey of her son's legacy. Despite the heaviness of this topic, Sara is able to weave laughter and light throughout her storytelling in a beautiful way. For more information on how to support the Bennett Raak Foundation, see the show notes.Show Notes: The Bennett Raak Foundation seeks to raise money in order to continue to have a dedicated Family Support Specialist for the Medstar Georgetown University Hospital NICU. HIstorically, the NICU has shared a Family Support Specialist with Pediatrics, which spreads the FSS thin, giving priority to the Pediatric unit. Because of the support given by the Bennett Raak Foundation, the NICU now has a dedicated Family Support Specialist and their longterm goal is to continue paying the salary for that position as well as supporting additional programs that benefit the families in the NICU. If you would like to donate to the fund for the Bennett D. Raak Family Support Specialist you can do so at this link: http://www.giving.medstarhealth.org/nicufamilysupportA Note From Sara on Bereavement:A friend and fellow Georgetown NICU parent started an amazing website called Evermore. Joyal lost her sweet daughter and when she was in her darkest moments of grieving sought resources to help walk her, her family and friends through the fog of bereavement. She realized there was very little avaialble to those who despereately needed assistance. As a result she started Evermore. While most Americans will experience bereavement during their lifetime, the topic receives little attention in our nation’s discourse on public health priorities, health equity, and the well-being of children and families. Our nation can do better. We are working every day to bring more and better resources to families and the professionals who serve them. Bereavement care in America is broken. We hope you will join us to make the world a more livable place for bereaved individuals, families and communities. This is an organization to assist anyone who has lost a loved one. https://www.live-evermore.org/Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
This minisode is full of fun and surprises as The Two Jess(es) go through the long box of WeSTAT topic cards that you, the listeners, have provided. What do women REALLY want to talk about? Turns out their list is a mile long and they will never run out of topics! Menopause, the death of friendships, low points of motherhood...TTJ(es) can't wait to start the conversation!Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
In this week's WeSTAT mini, The Two Jess(es), inspired by a run in with a friend, ponder the things that they used to love doing, or rather, things they have completely forgotten they know how to do! This conversation will definitely get you thinking, and maybe lead you to explore the hobbies that life has forced you to forget! Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
The Two Jess(es) get really honest about what they want for Valentine's Day, AND what they DON'T want!! A quick little laugh about their beliefs around the holiday as they describe their perfect evening with their respective partners. If you like bubbles, Thai food and stretchy pants, you will love this minisode!Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
***If the V word makes you uncomfortable, you're welcome! AND, you might want to listen to this one without your kids around!*** Everyone is talking about the 2020 Super Bowl Half Time show, and of course, The Two Jess(es) have something to say about it! In this minisode, JessK and JessB have a celebratory conversation about women over 40 rocking their bods on a pole, the over sexualization of women in America, and the importance of showing our daughters that we can still shake our money makers! This is definitely 13 minutes of fun!Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
TTJ(es) (The Two Jess(es) share their personal experiences with grief. JessB lost her mother suddenly 10 years ago, and JessK lost her mother through illness four years ago. In this episode they tackle the process of grieving, anything, but especially grieving the one who brought them into the world. TTJ(es) take a look at the culture of grieving from a societal standpoint and how that differs from the experience of mourning, discuss the non-linear aspect of their sorrow and while there are a lot of tears in this one, there is a lot of laughter connecting them to the beauty of their memories, experiences, as well as reflections on the realization that grief is indeed, a gift. Show Notes: The Gift of Grief by Jessica Kidwell:https://www.writebitchwrite.com/december/2020/1/3/personal-essay-jessica-kidwell*Showcased at the end of this episode is an original song written by the following: The song: The Wreckage Of Why, was written collaboratively by Lindsay Herring (vocal), Norman Salant (guitar), Tammy Shaw (vocal), and Andrea Tom, during a songwriting workshop in the fall of 2019.The Wreckage of WhyThe years stack up like old coffee cupsThe kitchen’s so quietShould I just burn it downI wish I could tell you once more how I love youOh I wishBut there’s no one around I’m looking for answers in the wreckage of whyWondering will I come back againA sliver of honey in a fallen skySomehow a sweetness remains I’m always half-rightI’m always half-blindI’ve tilled all the memories at the end of the dayThe pull of the past ain’t a reason for leavingBut a house ain’t a reason to stay So I’m looking for answers in the wreckage of whyWondering will I come back againA sliver of honey in a fallen skySomehow a sweetness remains I’m looking for answers in the wreckage of whyWondering will I come back againA sliver of honey in a fallen skySomehow the sweetness remainsSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)
In this first WeSTAT Minisode, The Two Jess(es) outline their list of things they DON'T do. Inspired by the viral article written by Australian writer, Holly Wainwright. (https://www.mamamia.com.au/i-dont-list/). As is their style, they get a little deep and 'unpacky' with their "I DON'T List," but they also have a lot of fun, mostly at each other's expense! TTJ's invite you into their conversation, as they encourage every woman to write their own "I DON'T List." Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
Join JessK and JessB as they explore the definitions of authenticity and oversharing, and what it truly means to them. How does their pursuit for authenticity and true vulnerability affect others around them? And does it matter? Get ready for an honest and at times, uncomfortable, conversation centered around their own personal truths and the challenging of emotions that motivate us to share in the first place. How do we find safe people to share our vulnerable selves with? How do we decide if someone is worth our authentic time? The Two Jess(es) cover a lot of ground in this episode.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
In this first episode of WeSTAT, The Two Jess(es) share their story of a writer's blind date, how the concept of We Should Talk About That came to be as a result of that date, and why they believe in the crucial importance of living an open and honest life with ourselves, and each other.This is an introduction, an explanation and an invitation to the conversations about all the things no-one is talking about but should. As they touch on the subjects of grief, connection, the power in putting yourself out there, and the wild ride of collaboration and service to each other, their authenticity will make you laugh with discomfort, sigh in commiseration, and nod your head in agreement for all the right reasons.Support the show (http://www.paypal.com)
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