Because I Said So

Because I Said So—S2E12: THIS IS YOUR PEP TALK!

In this episode, Kori Alexander gives me (and you!) a pep talk. It can be so difficult to do the things that set our mental health and relationships up for success, such as setting boundaries and learning to enforce them, but together we untangle the process behind these actions. Additionally, Kori offers relatable advice regarding taking control of your own happiness and growing to know when to take the blame--and when not to. I cannot wait for you guys to hear this one!

Because I Said So—S2E11: Self-Reliant Since Seventh Grade

Annalee Neeley is one of the kindest and most light-bringing people I will ever meet. However, I think one of the reasons this is true is because she has been through some tough experiences that have molded her into an empathetic and creative soul! On this episode, she talks about how she started her small watercolor business, Black Swan Creatives, in 7th grade, and how it has helped her develop as a young adult. Additionally, she dives into the challenges and identity crisis of switching schools in the midst of a pandemic, and she exemplifies maturity in her self-reflection of knowing when to push on and when to rest. So excited for you all to hear this one!

Because I Said So—S2E10: Men's Mental Health and Inherited Trauma

In this episode, Yael Frausto and I sat down to talk about why men's mental health so often goes underlooked, and why that matters. We spoke about how to approach family for help, especially as a Hispanic male, and the stigma surrounding male eating disorders even as female eating disorders have continued to gain attention. Additionally, we spoke about the ways in which trauma can be passed down, and how to heal when those you live with may not be willing to heal themselves. So excited for you all to hear this one!

Because I Said So—S2E9: Why Am I Overworking Myself and Perceived Expectations

In this episode, I wanted to have a more intimate conversation regarding why we tend to overwork ourselves and what that can look like. Overworking can be a coping mechanism, and I know I personally have used it to run away from dealing with hard emotions or to try to mitigate longstanding insecurities. It is so tied into expectations and relationships, and so I also delved into important conversations and the danger of unspoken expectations. I hope this one resonates with you!

Because I Said So—S2E8: Normalized Racism: Amplifying AAPI Voices

In this episode, Sooa Chung details her experiences growing up as a first generation Korean-American facing racism and pressures from both cultures. Touching upon the recent violence against the AAPI community, she informs allies what they can do to help and educate themselves, the difference between cultural appropriation and appreciation, and fetishization of Asians. Additionally, she touches on some of the internal strife within the AAPI community, including colorism, spousal abuse, and body image issues, that she and several others hope to see change in the future. 
I learned so much through this beautiful conversation, and I can't wait for you to hear it!

Because I Said So—S2E7: Autism Acceptance

In this episode, Becca Stroud and I break down autism to help facilitate the conversation many people are to afraid to have. We talk about the process of diagnosis, intersections with mental health, gender disparities, and also about media representation including Sia's new movie. I learned so much, and I cannot wait for you all to hear this episode! Remember to do your research and steer away from Autism Speaks:)

Because I Said So—S2E6: Vulnerability: The Key to Thriving Through Change

In this episode, Jake Rosen and I sit down to discuss why he chose to switch from a small private school to a public school 10x larger in the middle of high school and how that has changed him. He recounts the small details that we make take for granted when we are used to an environment or culture, but also how those seemingly insignificant behaviors can be an entirely new world to someone coming in for the first time. Additionally, Jake discusses why it is okay to be in an environment, and specifically high school, and not feel the pressure to make lifelong friends whilst still growing, benefiting, learning, and socializing from the interactions and community. This episode is relatable, uplifting, and heartfelt. I'm so excited for you all to listen!

Because I Said So—S2E5: Blind Faith--Stifled Discussions and Chastity at Catholic School

In this episode, I spoke with Lila Gilmer in order to dig into the issues she faced whilst attending Catholic school for much of her childhood. This is by no means an attack on the Catholic faith, but rather a look into the issues with a echo-chambers, stifled discussion, sexual assault and lack of transparency, and the harmful effects that purity culture can have when taught at such a young age.

Because I Said So—S2E4: My Eating Disorder Story

TRIGGER WARNING! Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating
 
In honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week being February 22-28 of this year, I wanted to talk a bit about the different types of ED's, diet culture, and disordered eating in general contrasted with food neutrality and intuitive eating. To get into this, I also wanted to tell my story and hopefully show others that there is no "sick enough," and that you are never fully alone despite what your brain may be telling you!
Resources if you or someone you know is struggling:
1-800-931-2237 (Hotline)
nationaleatingdisorders.org
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/screening-tool (Screening Tool ***you can still have disordered eating issues and not have an ED!)
 

Because I Said So—S2E3: Veganism For Normal People

Veganism can be a touchy subject! It seems like you're shamed if you aren't, but also...if you are? In this episode, Briana Pond and I discuss different types of veganism, effects on the environment, the privilege of being able to go vegan, and where to begin if you want to take steps toward a more plant-based diet. 
 
OTHER RESOURCES:
--"Cowspiracy" (Netflix): Focuses on sustainability aspect
--"What The Health?" (Netflix): Focuses on the health aspect
--"The Game Changers" (Netflix): Focuses on optimal biological diet
--"Vegucated" (Free on YouTube): Three non-vegans adopt a vegan diet