Struggle Care

Exciting news unfolds as the host transitions to a twice-a-month release schedule, paving the way for new creative projects. Listeners get a sneak peek into a compelling new book about relationship boundaries and accountability. A shift towards writing a cookbook featuring easy meals adds to the creative mix, alongside a venture into fiction with a fantasy romance novel. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of compassion and reframing perspective in navigating challenging relationships.

Rev. Lizzie, an Episcopal priest and author well-known for her focus on queer affirmation, shares insights from her new book. She discusses the transformative nature of joy in faith and the importance of unpacking inherited beliefs about sin and self-worth. Lizzie delves into the complexities of spirituality and personal identity, advocating for a more loving interpretation of Christianity. Additionally, she reads a poignant excerpt about her own birthing experience, highlighting God’s unconditional love amidst societal judgments.

Dana Miranda, author of *You Don't Need a Budget*, offers a fresh take on personal finance, challenging the stigma around debt. She argues for a more nuanced understanding of money, emphasizing that budgeting isn't the only answer to financial struggles. Miranda discusses the concept of 'Healthy Rich' and promotes debt as a strategic tool, especially for the wealthy. She also suggests alternatives to traditional financial advice, advocating for inclusivity and accessible resources in financial education.

Today’s episode is about surviving abuse, and I’m joined by Lisa Phillips, an abuse survivor. She shares her horrifying experience of surviving abuse at the hands of Jeffrey Epstein, along with so many other young girls. Lisa hosts a podcast called From Now On, where she dives headfirst into stories of abuse and recovery. Join us.Show Highlights: Lisa’s experience with Jeffrey Epstein when she was a young model in NYC Understanding the scope of sex trafficking and sexual predators Common questions survivors ask themselves: “Am I the crazy one? How could I not have known? How could I have been so stupid?” Red flags, boundaries, predators, and “the switch” Look out for “love bombers”! The irony of sharing a history of sexual abuse with a partner (“They want to abuse you in the same way you were abused.”) It’s hard to leave a relationship if you are trauma-bonded to that partner. Abuse makes you more at risk of being abused again. Lisa’s podcast guests, their stories, and universal experiences of abuse Talking to our kids about evil people and “bad guys” The main danger is NOT from strangers. Resources and Links:Connect with Lisa Phillips: Instagram, From Now On Podcast, Podcast Instagram, Podcast TikTok, and From Now On YouTubeConnect with KC: Website, TikTok, Instagram, and FacebookGet KC’s book, How to Keep House While DrowningWe love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on our website: www.strugglecare.com/promo-codes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dalina Soto, known as Your Latina Nutritionist, specializes in culturally sensitive nutrition and challenges diet culture. She discusses how cultural foods are often demonized, despite their significance. Dalina emphasizes rethinking nutrition by including traditional foods and combating societal pressures. She offers practical tips for meal prep, like using an air fryer, and advises on empowering children to explore diverse foods. Her upcoming book, 'The Latina Anti-Diet,' promises to further embrace and celebrate cultural nourishment.

Heidi Voet, a seasoned mental health professional and owner of Chapter House Counseling, dives deep into the murky waters of the addiction treatment industry. She reveals the troubling practices in treatment centers, like exploiting insurance loopholes and the commercialization of recovery. Families often face tough dilemmas as they navigate a flawed system. Heidi offers crucial advice: ask probing questions, understand the types of care available, and consider gender-specific treatment options to ensure the best for loved ones.

Virginia Spielmann, an occupational therapist and TEDx speaker, dives deep into the world of sensory health. She emphasizes how sensory experiences influence everything from mental health to daily routines. Virginia discusses the importance of tailoring physical activity to individual needs and highlights the often overlooked role of play in adult wellbeing. She also sheds light on how caregiver responses can shape children's sensory experiences, advocating for understanding and support to nurture autonomy while addressing sensory sensitivities.

Dr. Karla Lester, an expert in metabolic diseases and pediatric obesity, dives into the impact of 'almond mom' parenting on children's mental health and eating behaviors. She highlights the early signs of binge eating disorders and stresses the importance of compassion over compliance when guiding kids' food choices. The conversation tackles the epidemic of insulin resistance, debunking myths around diet culture, and emphasizes the need for parents to aim for positive habit changes and recognize red flags in their children's eating habits.

Dr. Karla Lester, a pediatrician and concerned parent, tackles the weighty issue of pediatric obesity with a compassionate lens. She exposes the damaging diet myths that shape parental beliefs about food. The discussion unpacks the concept of 'almond moms' and their impact on children's body image. Dr. Karla emphasizes the importance of understanding metabolic health beyond mere weight, debunking common health misconceptions. The conversation also highlights the stigma faced by those in larger bodies, especially within healthcare settings.

Dive into the quirky world of niche tea and amusing birdwatching tales. Discover the hilarious drama surrounding birding communities and the competitive spirit that ensues. Explore unexpected content creation challenges, from pyramids to video games. Enjoy a side of academic gossip with comical rivalries and the funniest interactions among scholars. This lighthearted conversation reveals that even niche interests can foster joy and connection in our lives.