Currently, the world is watching in horror as terrible events unfold in Ukraine, but today we are bringing attention to another humanitarian crisis. In an episode recorded a few weeks ago, Tigaru activist Mahder Tella sat down to educate me about the ongoing atrocities being committed against her people in the country of Ethiopia.We release this episode #callitagenocide on the weekend that marks 500 days of genocide against the people of Tigray at the hands of the Ethiopian government. Mahder and her community have been tirelessly working to bring attention to the displacement that the World Health Organization has labeled as "traumatizing" and "dire". Please listen to learn more about these horrific events, and what you can do to make a difference.Warning: this episode contains themes of violence, sexual violence, and war crimes.To learn more and support efforts to assist the Tigrayan people check out the following accounts/organizations:Instagram @tigrayartcollective@[email protected]

I'm back and having the most fun with the women who run local vintage shop, Wearhouse KY! Shaunda and Liz a.k.a. SHIZ had me over to hang out in their beautiful shop so we could drink beers and talk about their experiences as small business owners. Both women share how they came to love fashion and vintage clothes and how their partnership got started. Get ready for some laughs, name-dropping, styling by Shaunda, and join me as I reboot the podcast with this awesome episode. Thanks for helping us #startheconversationInstagram: @wearhousekyWebsite: wearhouseky.com

In this super fun episode Katarina talks to Kara of @buttonringsandthings and Madeline of @madseecards about their micro-businesses. We discuss what a micro-business is exactly, how Kara and Maddie got started, and what advice they have for others who are hoping to start their own small or micro business. As always within this circle, the women touch upon social issues near and dear to their hearts. We also shout out a few of our favorite businesses run by women who are hustling hard on instagram. Make sure to join us for the ins and outs of your favorite small, online shops, and make sure to check out Kara and Maddie on instagram for some kick ass earrings and personalized cards. Don't forget to rate us 5 stars and thanks as always for helping us #starttheconversation

Produced by: Katarina Hoskins and RadioLex

Music: Emma Yetter

Katarina is back from her hiatus and has officially graduated with her master's degree (woohoo) ! Season 4 teakes us back to our roots as Katarina hosts a series of conversations with incredible individuals who are ready to break out of cultural norms in order to start important conversations. Episode 1 brings us Detroit based artist Sarey Ruden, the creator behind @sareytales. Sarey has made a name for herself by taking the misogynistic messaging she receives from men on dating apps and turning it into artwork. Her work exposes the types of messages that women receive on a daily basis when searching for connections on dating apps. Through her art, Sarey reclaims the narrative and takes back her power. You don't want to miss this episode! Welcome back warriors, and thank you as always for helping us #starttheconversation

Produced by: Katarina Hoskins and RadioLex

Music: Emma Yetter

Find Ruden's Work on instagram at @sareytales

Join Katarina as she brings back Chelsea, James, and Matt to discuss their feelings about Season 4 and their respective episodes. This is a conversation of reflection among individuals who feel a sense of kinship in relationship to their experiences with religion. We would like to take the time to note that while the individuals in this episode have all left a religion and have some strong feelings regarding their past experiences, we are always grateful for our audience members and podcast guests who feel strongly tied to a religion. The purpose of this podcast is to open our mindsets and listen to many different perspectives, and we so appreciate everyone who has been vulnerable enough to share their experiences.

Episode produced by: Katarina Hoskins and RadioLex

In the final one on one conversation of this season, my close friend Chelsea Flint relays her experiences growing up as a Jehovah's Witness and ultimately leaving not only the religion, but as a consequence, her family as well. She discusses the hold that this religion has on its community, her increasing doubts, the pain of losing her family, and the incredible accomplishments in her life since finding independence. I know it's a long one, but it takes time to share one's life experiences. I hope you take the time to listen to Chelsea's story so that you can witness the bravery of this amazing woman. If you feel trapped, alone, or have also experienced the loss of family and want someone to talk to, Chelsea has offered her email address for questions. Please be respectful.

Support the podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/warriorwomanscircle and follow us on insta @warriorwomanscircle

Katarina talks to Mark Royse, executive director at RadioLex about his journey with religion. Throughout navigating his sexuality and coping with alcoholism, Mark spent much of his life searching for the connection he once felt within the church. Tune in to hear Mark reflect on his spiritual journey and why he's feeling more at peace today.

To help support community radio, check out radiolex.us

Katarina talks to James about his experiences growing up as a Seventh Day Adventist and what it was like to be a Black, Gay man within a religion that didn't accept him. He tells us about a pastor leading a double life, his own decision to come out to his family, and his life beyond the church. Take a listen and help us #starttheconversation

This episode also features a gorgeous song by Sunmates and to hear more of their music check out their bandcamp page or follow them on instagram at @sunmatesband

A professor recounts his life growing up in a small town where the United Methodist Church was an integral part of the community. Always an academic, he spent much of his youth exploring religion as a whole, and as an adult, ultimately moved away from organized religion, but is he finished with it for good?

Katarina's back with a sneaky sneak peek into season 4! It's finally here and wow it is intense, juicy, fun, emotional, and so much more. Titled losing my religion, this season is a series of conversations with individuals who have left the religion they grew up in. Each conversation follows their story of growing up with a religion, leaving said religion, and where they are now. Great for anyone whether you are a part of an organized religion, have left one yourself, or aren't sure where you stand, these stories are personal, honest, and heartfelt. Take a listen and get ready for this amazing season. Don't forget to subscribe and rate us, and help us #startheconversation by sharing with your friends. Oh! And don't forget to vote!