The Dream

Guests Jenni Villavicencio, Bev Gray, and Jonas Swartz are dedicated OBGYNs specializing in complex family planning and abortion care. They bravely tackle the stigma surrounding late-term abortions and shed light on the importance of personal autonomy in medical decisions. The conversation explores the fallout from recent legal changes, dispels harmful myths about abortion, and emphasizes the compassionate care that patients deserve. Their personal journeys provide insight into the nuanced realities of reproductive health and the pressing need for open discussions.

Exciting news unfolds as a new subscription service offers listeners ad-free access and exclusive content. The hosts share their journey toward podcast independence and the challenges of monetization, highlighting the balance between integrity and sponsorships. They also discuss the evolution of their creative studio, once home to the Beastie Boys, and the importance of creating a welcoming environment for guests. Additionally, they tackle the deceptive practices of crisis pregnancy centers and the ethical dilemmas of advertising in sensitive topics.

In this conversation with Lisa Pollak, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and alum of This American Life, the complexities of reporting on Hurricane Katrina's aftermath are explored. They share personal stories of displaced families, highlighting the emotional toll and chaotic environments of makeshift shelters. Lisa also reflects on the racist dynamics encountered while capturing these narratives. The resilience of the Bay High Tigers football team adds a glimmer of hope, showcasing community strength amidst adversity.

Danielle Friedman, a health journalist and contributor to the New York Times, dives into the often-taboo subject of menopause. She discusses the stigma and historical neglect surrounding women's health, particularly menopause, and shares personal experiences with perimenopause. Friedman explains the evolving landscape of hormone therapy and advocates for better understanding and open conversations. She emphasizes the importance of addressing societal pressures on aging women and promotes informed choices in navigating this significant life transition.

Ana Brazaitytė, a Bay Area jeweler and sustainability expert originally from Lithuania, dives into the world of ethical jewelry. She discusses the importance of sustainable mining and the impact of human rights and environmental issues in the jewelry industry. The conversation highlights the complexities of recycled gold and the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds. Ana shares insights on how consumers can navigate the ethical landscape of gold and gemstones, advocating for more transparency and responsible sourcing in the industry.

Alex Goldman, host of Hyperfixed and former Reply All producer, teams up with Kenan Tamlin and his mother, songwriter Megan Banning, for a heartfelt journey into the past. They explore Kenan's quest to uncover his mother's songwriting legacy and the emotional complexities of their relationship. Discussions unfold around unfulfilled dreams, the challenges of sensitive conversations, and rediscovering musical roots amidst life’s pressures. With humor and nostalgia, they navigate the ups and downs of reconnecting with passion and legacy.

Dr. Sherman James, a retired Southern Black professor known for his John Henryism hypothesis, and Dr. Arline Geronimus, a health inequity expert, discuss the hidden costs of striving in modern society. They argue that relentless ambition can negatively impact health and happiness, especially within marginalized communities. The conversation explores the myth of self-made success, chronic stress, and the emotional toll of societal pressures. Their insights challenge the traditional narratives of resilience and success, encouraging a reevaluation of what true well-being means.

Julie Jo, a former top MLM distributor turned anti-MLM advocate, shares her eye-opening journey through the world of multi-level marketing. She discusses her disillusionment after reaching near the top and the emotional toll of chasing success. The conversation dives into the unsettling connections between MLM schemes and conspiracy theories, while also addressing the impact on youth mental health. Julie emphasizes the importance of mental health advocacy and the need for accountability within the MLM community, raising critical questions about leadership and ethics.

In this intriguing discussion, a clinical social worker shares her journey into the world of hypnotherapy, uncovering the bizarre practices of a wellness institute. The conversation dives into the ethical dilemmas of hypnotherapy training, highlighting unsettling experiences and red flags encountered during the course. Participants grapple with skepticism about memory alteration and its impact on identity. Additionally, they reflect on the importance of credible training vs. dubious offerings in mental health, tackling the psychological fallout of sunk costs in personal decisions.

Brandie Hadfield, a former elite Juice Plus distributor turned psychotherapist and anti-MLM activist, shares her powerful journey from multi-level marketing to mental health advocacy. She discusses her personal experiences with grief, wellness marketing, and the emotional toll of MLMs on relationships. Brandie dives into the intersection of faith and business, exploring mental health challenges linked to social media. Her insights emphasize the need for recovery from cult-like influences, particularly concerning diet control and the pressures of the wellness industry.