The Scaries

This week, we unravel the unsettling reality that women, especially in equity-deserving and equity-seeking communities, bear the brunt of climate change's wrath. It's not just about melting ice caps and stranded polar bears; it's about how women are disproportionately affected by floods, droughts, and other climate-related disasters, often facing heightened risks and fewer resources to cope.

So, why are women more impacted? Well, as climate change intensifies, existing gender inequalities are magnified. Women, particularly in developing countries, face heightened vulnerabilities due to their roles in their communities. From bearing the burden of water collection to enduring increased violence as they traverse longer distances in search of resources, women face a myriad of challenges exacerbated by climate change.

Moreover, inadequate representation of women in climate policy decision-making further perpetuates these inequalities. Despite being on the frontlines of climate adaptation efforts, women's voices often go unheard in crucial discussions about effective solutions.

But amidst the darkness, there is hope. Women and girls are increasingly empowered to contribute to and benefit from climate action. Governments and organizations are recognizing the importance of gender-inclusive climate policies and aiming for gender balance in decision-making processes.

So, what can we do to turn the tide? Here are some impactful actions from a community and nation-building perspective:

1. Hold governments accountable and advocate for climate policies that prioritize gender equality.
2. Foster relationships and solidarity within your community to tackle climate change together. There’s strength in numbers!
3. Spread awareness and mobilize collective action for meaningful change.

What about on a day-to-day basis on an individual level? Well…

1. Opt for second-hand clothing or reduce consumption to minimize the fashion industry's environmental impact.
2. Cut down on food waste to mitigate the environmental footprint of food production.
3. Support ethical and sustainable brands to promote environmentally conscious practices.

Remember that change starts with awareness and action. Thank you for being part of The Scaries community. Together, we can make a difference.

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Follow us on Instagram @raiseherco and @scaries.podcast and on TikTok @raiseherco For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources.

Welcome back, gorgeous souls, to another riveting episode of The Scaries, your go-to destination for unfiltered conversations about the realities of womanhood. Today, we're diving deep into the labyrinth of women's mental health, guided by none other than the inspiring Vibya Natana.

In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the daunting world of mental health stigma, particularly its insidious impact on women. As we navigate the intricate web of societal expectations and gender norms, we uncover the harsh truth: women often bear the brunt of discrimination and barriers when seeking mental health support. But fear not because we're armed with knowledge and resilience!

Alongside Vibya Natana, we embark on a soul-stirring exploration of empowerment and advocacy. With her experience in social work and community advocacy, Vibya sheds light on the transformative power of inclusive mental health care. From destigmatization efforts to trauma-informed practices, we're breaking down barriers and building bridges to wellness.

The COVID-19 pandemic cast a harsh spotlight on the cracks in our mental health systems, but it also ignited a flame of resilience within us. As we navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, we're seizing this opportunity to demand systemic change. Governments, employers, and individuals are prioritizing women's mental wellness, from policy reform to workplace well-being initiatives.

But our journey doesn't end here, dear listeners. We're just getting started. Together, we're rewriting the narrative surrounding women's mental health, one empowering conversation at a time. So join us as we pave the way towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all women.

Remember to share, rate, and subscribe because together, we're unstoppable!!! Until next time, stay fierce and fearless, and remember: you are never alone on this journey.

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Follow us on Instagram @raiseherco and @scaries.podcast and on TikTok @raiseherco For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources.

Need some resources? Remember to please contact a mental health professional for advice and support.

Online Therapy Unit (FREE)

Canada-wide mental health resources

Saskatchewan-specific mental health resources

Kids Help Phone

• 1-800-668-6868

• TEXT 686868

Suicide Crisis Line

• 9-8-8
• TEXT 9-8-8

This week, we're exploring the vital role of matriarchs in Indigenous communities. With Lori Campbell, a respected Two-Spirit Montreal Lake Cree Nation member and a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Toronto, we dive into the world of Indigenous women's leadership.

Lori's research focuses on how Indigenous leadership is changing, especially in Canadian universities. More Indigenous women are taking on senior roles, challenging old ways and bringing Indigenous perspectives to the forefront. She shows us how matriarchs lead with consensus, taking a holistic view that includes everyone and everything. They use storytelling to pass on wisdom, unite communities, and inspire resilience.

But Lori also talks about the challenges. Colonial history has silenced matriarchal voices and made it hard for Indigenous women to lead. Despite this, they navigate these obstacles gracefully, drawing strength from their culture.

This episode is a reminder to listen to, create space for and raise up Indigenous voices. By amplifying their voices and honouring their contributions, we can advance reconciliation efforts, promote gender equity, and foster greater understanding and respect for Indigenous wisdom and leadership.

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For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources. Want some book recommendations on this topic? "Tricky Grounds: Indigenous Women's Experiences in Canadian University Administration" by Candace Brunette-Debassige and "Becoming a Matriarch" by Helen Knott are a few of the books we recommend! More are available on the blog post!

PART TWO WITH THE MOMS! This week, we're tackling the dynamic concept of leadership, guided by the wisdom and experiences of our built-in mentors and leaders—our moms, Gwen and Marlene.

If you know us, you know we’re passionate about intergenerational leadership. But what exactly does that mean? It's about meaningful engagement across generations, recognizing the valuable perspectives and experiences each generation brings to the table. This week, we explore this concept further and look at how leadership transcends job titles, authority, and power.

We start by challenging conventional notions of leadership. True leadership isn't about a job title or positional authority; it's about empowering others to succeed. As Simon Sinek and Brené Brown advocate, leadership is about finding and developing the potential in people and processes, regardless of age or job level. We believe that everyone can lead, and it's never too early or too late to start.

Part two of our conversation with Gwen and Marlene offers invaluable insights into leadership. From critical skills for women leaders to overcoming barriers and supporting the next generation, their wisdom shines a light on the path forward. With over four decades of combined leadership experience, their advice is both practical and empowering.

So, what now? From advocating for equitable workplaces to expanding knowledge and seeking mentorship, we have a role to play in driving change.

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For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources.

This week, we’re exploring mentorship and its profound impact on women's empowerment. With the help of a few special guests, we'll examine mentorship's importance in challenging gender disparities, fostering leadership skills, and creating a more equitable society.

Our discussion begins with a deep dive into mentorship's significance in promoting gender diversity and equity. Drawing on research findings, we highlight the tangible benefits of gender-inclusive workplaces and the economic imperative of advancing women's equality. From boosting profitability to driving innovation, mentorship emerges as a catalyst for organizational success and societal progress.

Enter: OUR MOMS! Gwen and Marlene embody the essence of mentorship and leadership. With decades of experience in education and healthcare, they share invaluable wisdom gleaned from their mentoring journeys. From navigating challenges to celebrating successes, they offer poignant reflections on the transformative power of mentorship.

As we navigate the complexities of mentorship, we confront prevailing statistics that underscore the need for systemic change. Despite its proven benefits, mentorship remains elusive for many women, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. We call upon individuals and organizations to prioritize mentorship initiatives and cultivate inclusive environments that empower women to thrive.

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For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources.

We're back with another episode shining a spotlight on Hollywood's representation—or lack thereof—of women on and off the screen. As we all know, the film industry plays a pivotal role in shaping societal norms and perceptions. From reflecting cultural values to influencing public opinion, movies hold immense power. However, despite its influence, Hollywood has long struggled with gender equality in front of and behind the camera.

Historically, Hollywood has been a male-dominated arena, a trend that persists today. Shockingly, recent statistics reveal that only a fraction of top-grossing films feature substantial female representation in terms of characters and the creative forces behind the scenes.

Reports from reputable institutions like USC's Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film highlight the stark reality: women remain vastly underrepresented in key roles within the industry. From speaking roles to directorial positions, the gender gap persists, stifling diversity and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. What about representation in how women are played and portrayed? Narrow stereotypes and archetypes have long marred the portrayal of women in film. From the "damsel in distress" to the "cool girl," female characters often serve as accessories to male-driven narratives rather than fully realized individuals. While progress has been made in subverting these tropes, there's still a long way to go.

Several tests have emerged to gauge the representation level in films, including the Bechdel Test, the DuVernay Test, and the Vito Russo Test. These tests serve as valuable tools in evaluating gender, racial, and 2SLGBTQIA+ representation, urging filmmakers to diversify their narratives and challenge mainstream conventions. 

As we navigate the complex landscape of Hollywood, we're committed to raising awareness and fostering dialogue around representation. By sharing stories, shedding light on statistics, and championing diverse perspectives, we can collectively work towards a future where women's voices are not only heard but celebrated.

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For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources.

Ready to talk about representation in hedge funds, investment banking, and equity?! This week, we chat with Dajana and Pall, a duo from the RaiseHER Co. & U of R Champions of Change Club’s She’s Here mentorship program, who are dedicated to dismantling obstacles for women in the financial industry through their mentorship project!

Off the hop, we explore gender disparities in finance and strategies for empowerment while busting some common myths about women and money. We reveal that women don't outspend men on average, tend to make more frequent but smaller impulse purchases, and are less likely to invest traditionally but often perform better when they do.

Our guests, Dajana, a finance leader, and Pall, a student and advocate, share insights into their own experiences and their mentorship project product: Women in Finance and Equity (WIFE). They discuss gender disparities, challenges in finance, and the importance of empowering girls in finance. WIFE aims to empower and educate girls about the finance world through annual programs, workshops, and speaker sessions. The project will kick off with a panel discussion sometime in 2024 featuring women keynote speakers sharing their journeys in finance.

WIFE definitely works to address gender equity issues in the financial sector, but we also explore other initiatives currently at work, including mentorship programs, remote work options, and diversified leadership pipelines. Like any sector, one of the biggest takeaways is that financial institutions can foster a more inclusive environment by addressing persistent challenges and promoting diversity.

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For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources. You can find more information on the She's Here Mentorship Program and review Dajana and Pall's presentation here.

This week, Skylar and Talitha dive deep into the daunting world of impostor syndrome, joined by Dr. Negar Golbar, PharmD, shedding light on its prevalence and impact. The episode starts with a glimpse into the She’s Here Mentorship Program co-founded by Skylar and Talitha, where Dr. Golbar completed her research with mentee Darby Graham-Rowe.

Impostor syndrome, coined in 1978, revolves around doubting one's abilities and feeling like a fraud, especially prevalent among accomplished women. Despite strides in education and professional success, women often struggle with confidence, attributing their achievements to luck or oversight rather than merit. This phenomenon isn't just an individual struggle but a reflection of systemic issues in workplaces perpetuated by biases, discriminatory practices, and unequal treatment.

Dr. Golbar shares insights from her mentorship project, focusing on gender and life stage as variables, aiming to underline the prevalence of impostor syndrome among women and non-male individuals. She discusses data collection and analysis challenges and the anticipated contributions to the broader conversation on gender disparities.

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Follow us on Instagram @raiseherco and @scaries.podcast and on TikTok @raiseherco

For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources. You can find more information on the She's Here Mentorship Program and review Negar and Darby's presentation here.

TECHNICALLY, all non-Indigenous Canadians are immigrants or descendants of immigrants. Yet the terms “migrant” and “immigrant” are often equated with racialized minorities and oftentimes used to promote fear and distrust of “others” who are different.

The intersectionality of identity traits profoundly influences women's experiences, so this week, we’re exploring immigrant women's unique challenges, particularly in Canada.

Despite Canada's reputation as a multicultural haven, immigrant women encounter significant barriers, from economic disparities to systemic discrimination. Historically, immigration policies favoured certain groups, perpetuating discriminatory practices. Today, immigrant women grapple with assimilation versus cultural preservation, facing pressure to conform while preserving their heritage.

Immigrant women are also disproportionately affected by poverty, earning less than their male counterparts despite higher education levels. They also face an increased risk of domestic violence and struggle to enter the workforce, often relegated to low-paying, gendered roles. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, particularly for racialized newcomer women. 

To tap into the real-life experiences of immigrant women, we're honoured to be joined by Victoria Flores, whose journey from Bolivia to Canada sheds light on the resilience of immigrant women. Victoria's experiences highlight the complexities of identity and adaptation, underscoring the importance of community support and empowerment.

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For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources. As mentioned in the episode, Victoria’s employer is the Regina Open Door Society (RODS), a non-profit organization providing settlement and integration services to refugees and immigrants in Regina. You can review their programming and donate right on the website.

Trigger warnings: racism

This week, we share the chilling statistics and heartbreaking realities surrounding violence against Indigenous women in Canada. With a focus on shedding light on this deeply concerning issue, we explore the alarming rates of violence and the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

Note: This episode is not going to focus on the genocide of Missing and Murdered Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people. While related and connected, that’s a separate topic that will get its own episode.

As always, we start by looking at the research: Indigenous women and girls are three times more likely to experience violence than non-Indigenous women, with six times the likelihood of being murdered. These statistics, however, only scratch the surface of the profound challenges and barriers Indigenous women face when seeking help or justice. 

We are honoured to have Patricia Crowe, a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and the healing of communities affected by violence. Patricia shares her personal experiences and insights on abuse and violence, intergenerational trauma, and the impact of colonialism, shedding light on the human side of these stark statistics.

Follow us on Instagram @raiseherco and @scaries.podcast and on TikTok @raiseherco

For those eager to dive deeper, visit www.raiseherco.com/the-scaries/ for all the resources.

Trigger warnings: abuse, sexual assault, child sexual abuse