Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this episode, we dive into the second season of America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, discussing the drama, character development, and societal implications of the show. We reflect on personal experiences, media representation, and the importance of feedback in leadership roles. The conversation also touches on Kelly's political stance and the emotional journeys of the cheerleaders, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in today's society. In this engaging conversation, we delve into the evolving landscape of college dance teams, the impact of social media on dancers' careers, and the pressures of body image and expectations in the dance world. We share personal anecdotes about a DCC cheerleader from the Ohio State Dance Team, discuss the dynamics of mother-daughter relationships in dance, and reflect on the season's highlights and challenges. The conversation is filled with humor, insights, and a deep appreciation for the artistry and athleticism of dance.

Keywords

America's Cowboy Cheerleaders, DCC, Netflix, pop culture, media representation, political commentary, character development, emotional growth, cheerleading, society, dance, college dance teams, Abby Summers, body image, social media, Ohio State, dance careers, expectations, mother-daughter dynamics, confessionals

References

Netflix series:

America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

Season 2

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this episode, we discuss the rise of generative AI, its implications for society, and the challenges it presents in education. We explore the potential benefits and risks of AI, including its impact on the job market and the importance of teaching students to use AI responsibly. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the need for equitable access to technology in education.

Keywords

Generative AI, technology, education, AI ethics, job market, critical thinking, AI in politics, AI in business, AI applications, future of work

Karen story references:

Justin Scott on instagram @this.cypher 

Jenna Johnson on instagram @jennajohnson 

GenAI reference articles:

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/25/technology/hard-fork-sam-altman.html?searchResultPosition=15

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/26/technology/ai-elections-democracy.html?searchResultPosition=2

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/alexa-plus-gen-ai-preview/?searchResultPosition=3

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/01/us/politics/state-ai-laws.html?searchResultPosition=7

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/19/opinion/linkedin-ai-entry-level-jobs.html?searchResultPosition=8

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/07/technology/chatgpt-openai-colleges.html?searchResultPosition=9

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this episode, we discuss the MAHA Movement and its implications on public health, personal wellness, and the influence of misinformation in the wellness culture. We share personal anecdotes, debunk health myths, and explore the intersection of politics and health, emphasizing the need for community health initiatives and systemic changes. The conversation highlights the dangers of individualism in health narratives and the importance of historical context in understanding current health issues.

Keywords

Maha Movement, public health, personal wellness, misinformation, social media, community health, capitalism, holistic health, political ideologies, health narratives

References

Dr. Jessica Knurick - @drjessicaknurick

1. Fake ADHD Diet Study
2. MAHA Celebrates while Pubic Health Is Dismantled
3. Wellness vs Public Health
4. More dietary guidelines propaganda
5. Personal responsibility vs Systems
6. Why do so many need Medicaid + Snap

Dr. Mona - @pedsdoctalk 

1. Vaccine Ingredients Explained

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - https://fb.watch/Awf6BAzcx9/

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this episode, we delve into the cultural phenomenon of Dance Moms, exploring its impact on reality television and the competitive dance world. We discuss the dynamics between the moms and their children, the intense drama surrounding competitions, and the pressures of parenting in a society that often prioritizes achievement over childhood play. The conversation also touches on the absurdity of some situations depicted in the show including parental pressure and the toxic environment fostered by competition. We discuss the impact of reality television on children, the cultural phenomenon surrounding the show, and the ethical implications of exploiting young talent for entertainment. The conversation highlights the emotional toll on both the children and their parents, as well as the broader societal issues related to parenting and performance culture.

Keywords

Dance Moms, reality TV, Abby Lee Miller, competition dance, parenting, helicopter moms, childhood development, fashion, drama, emotional impact, Dance Moms, reality TV, parenting, competition, artistic integrity, cultural phenomenon, toxicity, child exploitation, dance, motherhood

References

Dance Moms - season 3, episode 12

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AG_gPBkYeXA

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this episode of 'You Can Call Me Karen,' hosts Steph, Manni, and Karen engage in a deep conversation with Sophia Fifner, a civic wellness strategist and advocate for women's rights. They discuss the pressing issues affecting women today, including economic inequality, reproductive rights, and violence against women. Sophia shares her personal journey of advocacy, including her work on Aaron's Law, which mandates age-appropriate sex education in schools. The conversation emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, the need for a long-term commitment to advocacy, and practical steps individuals can take to make a difference in their communities. The episode concludes with a focus on the power of joy and connection in the face of overwhelming challenges.

References

https://now.org/issues/

Learn more at sophiafifner.com; Social Media - IG/TikTok: @sophiafifner 

Book recommendation: Pauli Murray - Song in a Weary Throat

Keywords

feminism, advocacy, civic engagement, women's rights, social justice, Sophia Fifner, Aaron's Law, community activism, personal stories, empowerment

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this week's episode, we delve into the impact of Disney on perceptions of femininity and gender roles, exploring the complexities of Disney princesses and their representation in animated films. We discuss our personal connections to Disney movies, share our favorite princesses, and reflect on the contradictions present in Disney's portrayal of women. The conversation emphasizes that while Disney has its flaws, it also brings joy and nostalgia, allowing for a nuanced discussion about its cultural significance. In this engaging conversation, we explore the multifaceted themes of Disney characters, their real-life inspirations, and the representation of feminism in Disney princesses. We discuss the evolution of female characters in Disney films, the subliminal messages conveyed through these stories, and the importance of imagination and representation. The conversation culminates in reflections on the impact of these narratives on personal identity and societal expectations, emphasizing the need for open discussions about the messages conveyed to younger audiences.

Keywords

Disney, feminism, Disney princesses, gender roles, childhood, nostalgia, representation, animated characters, cultural impact, storytelling, Disney, feminism, princesses, representation, characters, movies, subliminal messages, imagination, evolution, culture

References

https://harvardpolitics.com/femininity-disney-princesses/

https://tjhenigsman.medium.com/feminism-and-disney-a-deeper-look-into-the-disney-studio-and-the-women-who-defied-expectations-e406b5fadfac

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKshupWvKIi/?igsh=OGt0cnJkZGh5YTlp

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

Summary

In this episode of 'You Can Call Me Karen,' we kick off with some Karen stories where we realize Steph may be a bigger Karen than Karen, herself! We then delve into the complexities of female leadership in religious and spiritual spaces, exploring the intersections of feminism, spirituality, and community. We discuss the historical and contemporary challenges women face in these roles, the importance of redefining spiritual authority, and the need for a more inclusive understanding of leadership that values all contributions equally. The conversation also touches on the wisdom of aging women and the societal structures that often silence their voices.

References

https://www.instagram.com/p/DJwRQl7OC1X/?img_index=2&igsh=MXhnazdudzQ5bjdiOQ==

Pierce, Yolanda. In My Grandmother’s House: Black Women, Faith, and the Stories We Inherit. Broadleaf Books, 2021.

Bostic, J.R. (2013). Defining Mysticism and the Sacred-Social Worlds of African American Women. In: African American Female Mysticism. Black Religion / Womanist Thought / Social Justice. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137375056_2

Suggested Readings: 

• Starhawk
• Dangerous Old Woman
• Women Who Dance with Wolves

Keywords

female leadership, spirituality, feminism, religious spaces, women empowerment, patriarchy, mysticism, community, aging women, spiritual authority

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

In this episode, we explore the evolution of therapy in the US and its impact on societal perceptions of mental health. We discuss the alarming trends in mental health outcomes, despite increased awareness and treatment options. The conversation delves into cultural influences, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the importance of access to care. We reflect on personal experiences and the need for a more compassionate understanding of mental health as a chronic condition that requires ongoing support.

References

https://time.com/6308096/therapy-mental-health-worse-us/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db444-tables.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.axios.com/2023/07/15/therapy-mental-health-addiction-depression?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://maintenancephase.buzzsprout.com/1411126/episodes/16529172-blue-zones

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-1-attention-deficit-neuropsychology-adhd-with/id1278815517?i=1000551940708

Keywords: therapy, mental health, cultural impacts, statistics, self-care, societal expectations, ADHD, stigma, wellness, emotional health

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

In this episode, we delve into the concept of performative allyship, exploring its implications and the fine line between genuine activism and superficial gestures. We discuss the impact of social media on activism, particularly during significant events like the Black Lives Matter movement, and how performative actions can sometimes overshadow meaningful change. The conversation also touches on the role of institutions in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the challenges faced in navigating allyship in a complex social landscape. Ultimately, we emphasize the importance of genuine engagement and the need for individuals to reflect on their actions and intentions in the fight against systemic racism.

References:

https://www.nbcnews.com/think/opinion/blackout-tuesday-instagram-was-teachable-moment-allies-me-ncna1225961

https://www.penguin.co.uk/discover/articles/ibram-x-kendi-definition-of-antiracist

https://www.forbes.com/sites/carmenmorris/2020/11/26/performative-allyship-what-are-the-signs-and-why-leaders-get-exposed/

https://www.instagram.com/p/DC0DOXbxIOm/?igsh=MTVkeGM0Z2d1YTUzaQ==

https://www.instagram.com/p/DJq_LOptd10/?img_index=4&igsh=MTNnZnBnZmI5ZXRqMQ==

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA9C8Xzhzk7/?igsh=cWU4dHdhY29heGIw

Keywords: performative allyship, social media activism, allyship, systemic racism, community engagement, diversity, equity, inclusion, activism, social justice, cultural awareness

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.

Text Us Your Karen Stories

In this episode, we delve into the early cultural moments that shaped millennials, exploring nostalgia for past experiences and the contradictions of growing up during significant societal changes. 

References for today's episode:

"The Oregon Trail Generation: Life before and after mainstream tech | LinkedIn" - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/oregon-trail-generation-life-before-after-mainstream-tech-morgan

Scott, Shaun. Millennials and the Moments That Made Us: A Cultural History of the U.S. from 1982-Present

Harris, Malcolm. Kids These Days: Human Capital and the Making of Millennials

Keywords: millennials, nostalgia, cultural moments, Billie Jean, generational trauma, Karen stories, cultural shifts, 1980s, social commentary, healthcare experiences, parenting, childhood, technology, social media, cultural influences, generational differences, childhood experiences, digital communication, pop culture

Lastly, please follow us on Instagram (@youcancallmekaren), TikTok (@YCCMKPod), and like/subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

As always - a big thank you to Steve Olszewski for the art and images, Calid B and SJ Fadeaway for the musical mixings, and huge credit to Malvina Reynolds (writer) and Schroder Music Co. (ASCAP) (publisher) of the song “Little Boxes”.