We Should Talk About That

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I said "wow" so much in this episode, and I even edited A LOT out. 
But talking with Sarah Beran and Brooks Bell about their separate journeys with colon cancer - both diagnosed when they were under 40(!) - left me almost speechless.

Today, they’re survivors who have dedicated their lives to making sure others have access to early, life-saving colonoscopies. Brooks, a tech entrepreneur, and Sarah, a celebrity stylist, faced the terrifying reality that their cancers could have been prevented with earlier detection as regular screenings can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.

Projected to become the leading cancer killer of adults under 50 by 2030, colon cancer is unique in that it is preventable!

So Sarah and Brooks are launching Worldclass on Giving Tuesday, a non-profit apparel brand designed to raise awareness about colon cancer, where 100% of profits will go directly toward increasing access to colonoscopies for underserved communities. 

Join me this Giving Tuesday as we talk about our asses.  Because a great ass is a terrible thing to waste.

Check out the website:
https://www.worldclassclothing.com/
Follow them on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/worldclass_clothing

And in the introduction Jessica introduced you to another great non-profit to support this Giving Tuesday, Artspire VA
Artspire VA is a non profit organization that strives to ensure "art is for everyone."
Through their scholarship program, Artspire VA ensures that performing and visual arts classes and workshops are within reach to all students who are interested in them. This expands access to artistic opportunities for the local underserved communities in the Fairfax county VA area.

https://www.artspireva.com/

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Happy Thanksgiving WeSTAT!
I hope wherever you will be celebrating, you find the time to notice all the many things and people to be grateful for-that's certainly my goal this week.

It's no secret that I have an ongoing struggle with fear and anxiety. For me, anxiety acts as an active response to fear but I'm learning that gratitude is a healthier alternative.  

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"Oh no, is she STILL talking about politics?"
Yes.  Yes I am.
Listen, I think it's super important to be informed on what may are may not happen as one administration transitions to the next.
I love our little democratic republic and think of democracy as a verb rather than a noun.  Something that needs to be actively worked on and done, rather than just accepting it as a thing that will always exist.
Personally, I don't think the Department of Education should be shut down.  And I wanted to actually learn the "how" that would happen and remind myself (and you) on what it is the Department of Education actually does for all of us.  
I certainly learned a lot in this episode.  I'm wondering if you will too?

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Jessica Kidwell opens up about her emotions following the recent election results. She candidly shares her journey from avoiding conflict and embracing both-sideism to finding her voice and standing firm in her beliefs. She also addresses the "fuck your feelings" crowd and emphasizes the importance of allowing people to feel every emotion without judgment.

Jessica also talks about maintaining relationships with those who hold opposing views and invites listeners to engage in conversations about differing opinions. Although it can feel hard, especially in this emotionally charged time, she asks if she can continue to value shared humanity over policy positions.

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With the stress of the U.S. election looming, Jessica welcomes S.E. Cupp, a TV commentator and mental health advocate, to discuss the impact of the political climate on our mental well-being. S.E.'s new podcast "Off the Cup with S.E. Cupp," offers her insights on life beyond politics and the importance of addressing mental health.

Whether you're deeply engaged in politics or seeking a moment of respite, this episode offers a refreshing take on addressing today's challenges.

About S.E. Cupp:
S.E. Cupp is a TV commentator, nationally syndicated columnist, book author, and public speaker. She’s also a mom, oyster-eating enthusiast, travel fiend, Bravoholic, and margarita connoisseur.

Podcast: Off the Cup with S.E. Cupp
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-off-the-cupp-with-se-cupp-219755925/

Social Accounts:
https://x.com/secupp
https://www.instagram.com/secupp/
https://www.facebook.com/secupp/

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The fall season is upon us, which seems to bring with it the onset of comfort food cravings. But what does comfort food mean to you? For Jessica, it's cheesy baked pasta dishes, but there's often guilt attached to these indulgences. Enter Mary Beth Albright, an award-winning journalist and author of "Eat and Flourish: How Food Supports Emotional Well-Being." Mary Beth challenges the guilt associated with comfort food and emphasizes the profound connection between what we eat and our emotional state.

With a background in public health, government, and law, Mary Beth has spent decades researching the food-mood connection. In this enlightening conversation, she shares insights from her book, which combines serious, evidence-based information with an engaging narrative. Jessica and Mary Beth discuss the complexities of nutrition science, the impact of hustle culture on food choices, and the societal pressures of diet culture.

They also touch on the controversial use of semaglutide and its surprising effects on emotional well-being, challenging the traditional narratives around diet and health. As they explore the feast paradox and the importance of communal dining, Mary Beth encourages listeners to embrace the joy of eating and to reconsider the moral judgments placed on food.

Mary Beth Albright on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.beth/

Buy the Book:
https://bookshop.org/p/books/eat-flourish-how-food-supports-emotional-well-being-mary-beth-albright/18100221?ean=9781682689035

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In this WeSTAT bonus episode, Jessica Kidwell reconnects with Justin Jones-Fosu to explore the complex world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). With over 20 years of experience, Justin shares his insights on how DEI has evolved from a corporate buzzword to a contentious topic, and whether there is hope for its future. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of how to make DEI a part of our everyday lives and how respectful disagreement can be a tool for meaningful connection and understanding.

Justin Jones-Fosu is the founder of Work.Meaningful and author of "I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World." Tune in to hear his full conversation with Jessica and gain valuable perspectives on navigating DEI in today's world.
For the full conversation, you can listen to Episode Seven: Respectful Disagreement in a Divided World
https://pod.link/1493416901/episode/5c090405d0a83d633924f726a8b07dd5

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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"I can vehemently disagree with your ideology and yet still passionately pursue your humanity." - Justin Jones-Fosu 

As we approach a pivotal presidential election, the air is thick with divisive rhetoric. Join Jessica Kidwell in a timely conversation with Justin Jones-Fosu, an international speaker, social entrepreneur, and author of "I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World." Discover how Justin's unique approach to respectful disagreement can help bridge divides and foster deeper connections. Through personal anecdotes and practical strategies, Justin challenges us to cultivate curiosity, seek the gray, and engage in meaningful conversations that transcend ideology. Whether it's through the power of three or the circles of grace challenge, learn how to transform conflict into understanding. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of humanity, empathy, and the courage to connect. Don't miss the opportunity to gain insights that could change the way you engage with the world around you.

Resources from the show:
More information about Justin Jones-Fosu
https://workmeaningful.com/
TedX Asheville: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml52Brr7AeA

Carol Dweck Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322

Dan Sullivan Book:
https://www.amazon.com/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence/dp/1401964362

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The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause is the first documentary film that addresses the marginalized or ignored health crisis faced by millions of women as they go through menopause.  It premiers on PBS October 17th, 2024.

Join Jessica and her guest this week, Denise Pines, as they delve into the complexity of women's health, the lack of research, and the societal changes needed to support women through menopause. They discuss the role of storytelling in driving change and the importance of creating a supportive community for women.

More about Denise Pines:
Denise is at the forefront of midlife wellness for women, advocating for a shift in how women's health is treated at midlife. Together, they discuss the importance of raising awareness about menopause, the challenges women face, and the systemic issues in healthcare that need addressing.

Official Trailer for the Film: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmrMwBh7l8w

The M Factor on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themfactorfilm/?hl=en

Birthing Justice:
https://www.birthingjustice.com/

Tea Botanics:
https://teabotanics.com/

WisePause Wellness:
https://wisepause.com/

FemAging Project:
https://www.femaging.com/

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Enjoy this collaboration episode with my other podcast, Neuroversity.

"There's a lot of open tabs in my brain. It's like a pinball going in every direction."
-Liz Schroeder

Join Jessica Kidwell on this heartfelt episode of Neuroversity as she chats with her good friend and neighbor, Liz Schroeder. Liz opens up about her journey from recognizing her daughter's ADHD to discovering her own diagnosis later in life. 

Liz talks about the challenges of staying organized, dealing with hyperfocus, and the chaos that often comes with ADHD, as well as the life-changing impact of finding the right treatment. This honest conversation highlights the importance of support, understanding, and the courage to take care of yourself. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone navigating your own neurodivergent path, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.

✍️ Episode References

ADHD Online
https://adhdonline.com/

How to ADHD by Jessica McCabe
https://www.howtoadhd.com/

Franklin's Finery on Etsy
https://www.etsy.com/shop/FranklinsFinery

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