Because I Said So

Because I Said So—S2E2: A Change of Heart

In this episode, Peyton Boling discusses his transplant story. At a young age, he experienced heart failure and severe medical complications that made a heart transplant necessary. He details how it changed his adolescence and the effects of assumptions that others made, as well as how to sit in the discomfort and waiting period that so many of us have gotten a taste of this past year. It is evident in this conversation the level of maturity and empathy that Peyton has developed as a result of his experiences, and, although many cannot relate to the transplant experience, many lessons and themes from his story are universal.

Because I Said So—S2E1: Comparison and Burnout

WELCOME BACK! I wanted to start off this season with some housekeeping (schedule, upcoming episodes, YouTube!), but also with a mental health talk. There is so much going on in the world around us that sometimes it can be challenging to discern how we are really feeling, and I wanted to talk about how I've tried to navigate through the constant flood of news. Also, I wanted to discuss COMPARISON! This has been such a big struggle for me, and it has affected what I believe myself to be and what I pursue. I wanted to share my thoughts and struggles, and hopefully this resonates with you too!

Because I Said So—BONUS: Unity?

In this episode, Saleban Gabure (@sailbane) and I discuss the diversity of religions and how that can seem overwhelming at first for so many people. From there, we move into breaking down the differences between faith and religion, evidence and its importance, and, finally, what unity is within the messages of the major religions and what unity looks like beyond its superficial notion. This is one you don't want to miss! 

Because I Said So—Episode 25: Part 4: Hinduism

In this episode, Apeksha Sawarkar tells us about her experience practicing Hinduism. By explaining the details of practices, beliefs, and holidays, she helps to break down stigma and stereotypes surrounding one of the most underrepresented religions in the American educational system. She also discusses the importance of representation, and the strong bond between culture and religion, especially in India and South Asia.

Because I Said So—Episode 24: Part 3: Judaism

In this episode, we have a double-feature with two wonderful guests. First, Macey Goorevich speaks about her sometimes lonely experience growing up as a Jew in the South, and how she was able to use that opportunity to educate people around her from a young age as she found her identity and became involved in social activism. Then, Madeline Lederman discusses what inspired her to educate other youth and adults about anti-Semitism in our current society, and what her experience has been like refuting misconceptions about Jewish culture.
***DISCLAIMER: There were a couple times that I said "Church" instead of "Temple." I apologize for this mistake!***

Because I Said So—Episode 23: Part 2: Islam

In this episode, Bada Said and I unpack the biggest misconceptions about Islam including the history of the hijab, the reality of Islamophobia, internal strife, and the difference between culture and religion. I am so excited for you all to be able to hear about such a beautiful practice, and I am so grateful to be able to have this conversation with such an eloquent and loving person. 

Because I Said So—Episode 22: Part 1: Christianity

In this episode, Greta Mathes and I discuss the way that the foundations of Christianity have been twisted and misused by culture in order to create a sphere of pride, arrogance, and exclusivity. We also talk about Churchianity, love at the core of life, and the duality of religion and science (spoiler alert! they work together!). This is the beginning of a series on looking into different religions, and I hope you enjoy!

Because I Said So—Episode 21: Gap Year

In this episode, 2020 graduate Audrey Hines tells about why she chose to take a gap year before attending college, how it has affected her, and the meaningful ways she has chosen to use her time in order to create change in our country. Also, Audrey opens up about how this period of isolation has affected her mental health, both positively and negatively, specifically as it relates to her relationship with food and her body.

Because I Said So—Episode 20: You Don't Know Diabetes

In this episode, Genna Smith tells about her diabetes diagnosis and the way that it affected her and her family. She speaks on choosing pride, finding a sense of community, hyper-fixation on a relationship with food and body image, and the issues that come with others making assumptions about your circumstances. Think you know about diabetes? Think again.

Because I Said So—Episode 19: The Rivalry Between You and Your Brain

In this episode, Qwynn Garrett and I discuss the ways that your brain inhibits you—both consciously and subconsciously. We dive deep into topics such as procrastination, comparison, and pressure, as well as how to overcome them in uniquely applicable ways. With her vulnerability and introspection, Qwynn reveals unique truths about the way we operate and the nature of our desires, making this episode one you don't want to miss.(Shh! Just don't tell your brain about it)