Constant pressure to be physically appealing in the public eye has caused some celebrities mental anguish while others have lost their lives trying to meet unrealistic expectations of beauty.

Social media is consistently utilized to bully, belittle and demean celebrities and regular people for not meeting the exasperating, imaginary standards of cruel, miserable individuals who have nothing better to do with their time.

In all, who sits high enough to judge what should be the beauty standards for others? 

In Episode 28 of Amerisogyny, I delve into stories that challenge the concept of freedom across the globe. From North Korea's brutal treatment of Christians to the shocking police shooting of a child in Mississippi and a Florida woman's deadly altercation with her neighbor, the episode explores the heavy costs associated with seeking freedom.

On May 24, 2023, legendary icon Tina Turner, passed away at 83.  Born as Anna Mae Bullock, Tina Turner was a trailblazer and an inspiration for women around the world.  She broke through barriers no Black woman in her position had ever done. Her fierce determination to never give up inspired generations of women to strive for greatness. 

Born into humble beginnings, haunted by an unhappy childhood, and later, a tumultuous first marriage, Tina refused to be defined by personal trauma and extrinsic barriers. She found the strength to face her fears and emerge as an unstoppable force in the music industry.  Don’t miss this special episode dedicated to the amazing life of this beautiful and inspirational lady--the one and only Tina Turner. 

A new research study by Harvard recently explored intrinsic bias in different cultures.  I participated in the study and was very intrigued by my results.  In the end, the researchers proved their hypothesis and expressed optimistic conclusions. 

However, will we ever reach a point where bias no longer has significant relevancy?  Join me as we travel from the U.S. to Indonesia to uncover how intrinsic bias distorts the lens we see others through...and sometimes...ourselves. 

Hey Friends! We're back with another episode of 'Amerisogyny,' and today we're diving into a heartfelt discussion about resilience in the face of life's toughest challenges. I'm reaching out to all of you who feel like giving up, to remind you that it's not just the strong who survive, it's the resilient. Despite America's shortcomings in embracing diversity, I'm urging you, wherever you are, to keep fighting. You might think I don't understand your pain, but believe me, I've seen struggle up close.

From healthcare biases that Black women face to the mistrust in the medical system, we've got stories that show how prejudice can overshadow qualifications and the need for trust. Plus, we're celebrating those who break barriers, like Viviane Koume with her Ivorian chocolate venture, and Sarah Gibbs, who found her place in the world after a late autism diagnosis. This episode is a reminder that your struggle can lead to resilience and that you're not alone in this fight. Tune in to hear more about creating spaces for ourselves and the importance of knowing your worth. And remember, you've got a friend in me, so keep pushing forward.

In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite KDramas on Netflix! Buckle up and and enjoy the ride!

Recently U.S Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, declared loneliness as an epidemic.  According to Dr. Murthy, loneliness contributes to significant decline in mental and physical health.  If not rectified, this could be potentially hazardous for the healthcare system--resulting in a loss of billions of dollars.

Loneliness has been a consistent issue long before Covid 19 halted the world under a cloak of fear and death.  The art of being lonely has caused people to make life changing, and at times, life threatening decisions.

Society's high expectations of men are at times devastating for a man's mental health.  Unrealistic physical and emotional expectations place men in uncompromising situations where they are forced to deal with unwanted pressure and stress. 

Some of the most popular men around the world--Prince Harry, BTS's Suga, Jackson Wang, Trevor Noah, and former professional Brazilian soccer player Ronaldo etc, have confronted the pressures head on and prioritized their mental health to improve their quality of life, thus saving themselves.  Join me as I discuss the trials and triumphs of some of the wealthiest men in the world.  This is a ride you won't want to miss!

References:

Real Madrid Ronaldo opens up on mental health in football: I've been in psychological therapy for two and a half years. Mario Cortegana 10/15/2022

Prince Harry Says He Prioritizes His Mental Health by Avoiding 'Toxic Parts of the Online World.' Michelle Tauber  April 22, 2022

Prince Harry on 'History Repeating Itself': 'It's Triggering to Potentially Lose Another Woman in My Life.' Karen Mizoguchi and Simon Perry May 20, 2021

'Spider-Man' actor Tom Holland says he is taking a social media break for his mental health.  Mirna Alsharif Aug. 15, 2022

David Harewood on growing up with racist abuse and the psychotic breakdown he suffered.  Hannah Stephenson  September 7, 2021

Jackson Wang Talks Struggles With Mental Health, Coachella Surprise and Why K-Pop Will Last Forever.  Shirley Ju  Apr 15, 2022

60 Minutes Entertainment Comedian Trevor Noah on humor and belonging. Lesley Stahl December 19, 2021

ChatGPT is giving therapy.  A mental health revolution may be next. Aljazeera. Erin Hale  Apr 27, 2023

Kpop fans around the world are reeling over the unexpected death of beloved Kpop star Moonbin of Astro. At only 25 years of age, Moonbin brought light and love to his fans in every corner of the world. Family, friends, Kpop stars and fans are stunned this once vital and talented man is gone forever. In this episode, we will process the stages of grief and navigate how to respond to sadness in a way that is meaningful and uplifting for everyone who has ever suffered a tragic loss.

On April 12, 2023, the US Department of Justice stated they didn't have enough evidence to move forward to arrest anyone involved in the murder of 25 year old Shanquella Robinson. Robinson's story went viral in 2022 after a video surfaced online of her being beaten by another woman. Since her death, her family has been relentless in obtaining justice for her. All for their hopes to be dashed. The family vows they won't give up. Join me as I dissect her case and uncover the treacherous betrayal and lies behind a false friendship.

Sources:

US prosecutors tell family of Shanquella Robinson they won’t pursue charges in her death in Mexico. Alta Spells and Macie Goldfarb, CNN April 12, 2023

U.S. Won’t File Charges in Death of American Woman in Mexico: Shanquella Robinson, 25, of Charlotte, N.C., had traveled last fall to Mexico with six friends. A widely circulated video appears to show her being beaten by another woman. Eduardo Medina April 12, 2023

New video shows US tourist Shanquella Robinson with pals before mysterious death at Mexico resort. Yaron Steinbuch November 21, 2022

Shanquella Robinson’s best “friend” says ‘We have our first dead body, she through for’, while filming her asleep in Mexico. Gerald Jackson November 21,