Because I Said So

Because I Said So--S3E8:Comprehensive Sex Ed, Contraceptives, and Abortion Care

DISCLAIMER** This episode was recorded days before the release of the decision regarding Roe v Wade, and we would also like to give a TW as rape, incest, abortion, and other sexual matter is discussed in this episode.
Chloe and I originally recorded this episode to come out next weekend, but in light of the recent SCOTUS decision I felt it was important to release it today. While we do not delve too far into the laws regarding abortion, we spend time discussing the importance of comprehensive sex education, contraceptive use/access, and the nuance of abortion care as well as emotional treatment. All of these issues intermingle to push the brunt of the burden of unplanned or unwanted pregnancy on historically marginalized communities in our nation and perpetuate cyclic poverty. This episode serves to provide resources and knowledge to everyone regarding sex education and related issues, and I hope this episode is as helpful and educational to you all as it was to me, especially right now.
 
**Show Note: Plan B does not work during ovulation, as its main job is to delay ovulation.

Because I Said So--S3E7: Rape Culture and Victim Blaming: The Dark Side of Greek Life

It’s likely that you’ve heard about sexual assault or rape in college. The problem is treated by several universities as a norm to adjust to, not a problem to solve. When Sarah Mehany saw this problem being swept under the rug at her university, she decided she no longer wanted to be quiet. Especially in circles of Greek Life, we see a culture of secrecy and brotherhood formed that can help to create environments where these issues aren’t addressed, and in some cases allowed to propagate. The differences in expectations between those identifying as men and women on these campuses tends to put this burden on women to “protect themselves,” a statement we’ve seen raise red flags in recent years. This episode is so crucial, and I’m excited for you all to listen. Sarah also gives tips for those who want to make a difference in their own communities, and I hope you’ll take that message to heart.

Because I Said So--S3E6: The Class of 2022

In this episode, several of my fellow recent graduates and I discuss our feelings leading up to graduation, emotions on the day of, and the reflections that we put into messages for both our past and future selves. This episode means so much to me because of the vulnerability our class cultivated in the midst of tumult both in our lives and in our nation, and these people are so very special to me. I hope you enjoy these reflections and these beautiful peoples' hearts as much as I do.
 
Contributors include:
Malik Waters, Eric Luong, Cameron Adams, Sophie Cracraft, Lucy Nelson, and Macey Gooverich

Because I Said So: S3E5: Wilderness Therapy and Infrastructures of Mental Healthcare

In this episode, Audrey Hines was gracious in her vulnerability in sharing her story of mental health struggles, addiction, recovery, and what that entailed in terms of advocating for oneself through the infrastructure of mental healthcare in the United States and dealing with stigma in college. In these discussions, the reasons why so many are unable to get the help that they need and deserve became incredibly emphasized and apparent through her experiences and things she witnessed on her journey. Recently on social media, there have been a lot of stories told about various wilderness therapy programs that have detailed many negative experiences, and, in this episode, Audrey detailed her own perspective on her positive experience in the program she attended, as well as why it may not be a feasible option for some. We discuss the logistics of the program, daily tasks, procedures for counseling, pros and cons, and more. This episode is touching and fascinating, and I absolutely cannot wait for you all to hear it!

Because I Said So: S3E4: Racism in Education, 2 Years Later

In this episode, Malik Waters and I caught up almost two years later on the discussion about racism in education we had in the summer of 2020. We speak on the continuities (or lack thereof) in advocacy for black rights, why we are still having "firsts" like Ketanji Brown Jackson's historic SCOTUS confirmation, and the stigma surrounding black men and mental health. As two high school seniors venturing into a new environment and way of life this coming fall, we also discuss fears surrounding college and the way Malik is eager to break down barriers as a black man seeking a career in the field of mathematics. Stick around until the end to be able to hear some of Malik's thoughts on our Wordle obsession and his record breaking Word Hunt career, as well:) Hope you guys enjoy this one!

Because I Said So--S3E3: The Invisible Epidemic In Athletics

In this episode, Julia Halterman and I discussed the importance of athletes giving space for their mental health--even if it means stepping away from the sport, whether that be for a season or forever. Through looking at the ways obsessive behavior and "never stop" mentality ruin the minds of athletes, we were able to analyze the situations that left us in some of the most difficult situations we've faced. We hope this conversation helps to amplify the stories of athletes that we've seen emerge recently in media, and we are excited for you all to listen.

Because I Said So--S3E2: 18 Things To Know Before 18

A couple weeks ago I was forced to face one of my biggest fears--becoming a (legal) adult. In this episode, I wanted to unpack our obsession with 18, the reasons we may hang on to childhood, combatting negative emotional cycles, and ultimately what it means to change. PS! I also received a very special gift on my birthday that I share with you all in this episode in hopes that it will give you all the same support it gave me:)

Because I Said So--S3E1: Special Education, Stigma, and Selfhood

WELCOME TO SEASON 3! In this episode, Ava Doyle gave a vulnerable description of her experience in the special education system. We talked about the mental and physical abuse that can sometimes occur in these programs, the social stigma children learn at a young age, and the problems with being taught your identity in early education systems. Ava also discussed the inspiring connections and positives she's received, as well as what we can implement both in legislature and our own interactions to make special education a safer place for everyone.

Because I Said So—S2 FINALE: Unmasking Grief

Grief is intangible...at least that's what textbooks will tell you. However, grief's manifestations are incredibly tangible, and yet they're also incredibly complex and diverse. In this episode, I wanted to make grief even more tangible through precise descriptors that help to give names, expectations, and solutions to the nuances of grief without minimizing its intricacies. Why are the 7 stages of grief problematic? What is important about the subjectivity of grief? How is grief changed or stalled based on overlapping events? What can you grieve? This conversation is so relevant always, but especially now, and I'm so excited to share it with you!

Because I Said So—S2E24: 21 Things From 2021

In this episode, I wanted to reflect on the year by talking about 10 lessons I have learned, 10 hopes for 2022, and 1 word that I want to hold onto as we move into the new year. True to form, it got a little deep, it got a little funny, and it got a little vulnerable. I hope you all enjoy!