Critically Speaking
On each episode of Critically Speaking, your host, Dr. Therese Markow, interviews foremost experts in a range of fields. We discuss, in everyday language that we all can understand, fundamental issues that impact our health, our society, and our planet. Join our weekly journey where we separate fact from fantasy for topics both current and controversial.
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Dr. Lucas F.W. Wilson: Shame-Sex Attraction: Conversion Therapy Survivors
11/18/2025
Dr. Lucas F.W. Wilson: Shame-Sex Attraction: Conversion Therapy Survivors
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Lucas F.W. Wilson discuss his book, Shame-Sex Attraction, which explores the experiences of conversion therapy survivors. Lucas explains that conversion therapy aims to change sexual orientation or gender identity, despite its ineffectiveness and harmful nature. He traces the history of conversion practices from the 1800s to the present, highlighting various methods like electroshock therapy and aversion therapy, and their rapid growth after 1976 up through the heyday in the early 2000s. Dr. Wilson shares his personal journey through conversion therapy at Liberty University and emphasizes the broader impact of conversion practices on societal beliefs and individual identities. He advocates for empathy and understanding to challenge these practices. Key Takeaways: There are no known cases where conversion therapy has actually changed someone’s sexual attraction. While there is anecdotal evidence from the organizations perpetuating the claims, research shows that it is not effective. “Pastoral Counseling” and other similar phrases are used to mask or obfuscate the practice of conversion therapy to hide the work that is being done. There is no typical or standard conversion therapy. The experiences range widely from person to person. Conversion practices can be seen throughout many, if not all, people’s lives, even if they’ve never been to official conversion therapy, nor is it solely for those who are part of the queer or religious community. It is important to engage with ideas and communities that are different from your own. "I would argue that probably every single person in this world at some point has been told ‘don't act like this,’ whether they were a kid or older, and that message has stayed with them and affected how they present their gender and how they identify." — Dr. Lucas F.W. Wilson Episode References: by Garrard Conley by Sue E. Spivey and Christine M. Robinson Connect with Dr. Lucas F.W. Wilson: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: Threads: TikTok: Bluesky: X: Other Publications: Book: Book: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Joe Pierre: False - Suicide by False Beliefs
11/11/2025
Dr. Joe Pierre: False - Suicide by False Beliefs
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Joe Pierre discuss the phenomenon of false beliefs, as explored in his book, False. Joe explains the distinction between clinical delusions and delusion-like beliefs, emphasizing the continuum of belief conviction and the role of motivated reasoning. He highlights the impact of political affiliation on belief spread and the concept of "suicide by false belief." Joe also discusses the importance of intellectual humility, cognitive flexibility, and analytical thinking in combating misinformation. He notes Finland's success in addressing misinformation through societal education and advocates for a similar approach to foster a culture of truth. Key Takeaways: There is a spectrum of conviction when we are discussing delusion-like beliefs - such as conspiracy theories. Misinformation refers to information that isn’t true. Disinformation is usually used to mean deliberate misinformation. Knowing the difference can be tricky because it relies on knowing the intent of the person spreading the misinformation. The Holy Trinity of Truth Detection is something people can learn and adopt - they aren’t always intuitive. They must be learned and valued for people to adopt them. "False beliefs always have at least the potential for harm. They don't always cause harm, but they certainly carry the risk of harm. And these days, because of some of the false beliefs that are going around - like beliefs about vaccines or climate change denialism - I sometimes refer to what's going on right now as suicide by false belief, because these beliefs really are potentially dangerous." — Dr. Joe Pierre Connect with Dr. Joe Pierre: Professional Bio: Facebook: Website: Book: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Teresa Lynch: Gender Stereotypes in Video Games
11/04/2025
Dr. Teresa Lynch: Gender Stereotypes in Video Games
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Teresa Lynch discuss the portrayal of women in video games and its impact on gender stereotypes. Teresa explains her research on gender stereotypes in media, influenced by her personal gaming experiences. She highlights the evolution of female character representation, noting a shift from sexualized to more diverse and empowered portrayals. They also address the economic significance of the gaming industry, which generated $59 billion in consumer spending in the U.S. in 2021, and the prevalence of online gaming, with 89% of gamers playing online weekly. The conversation also touches on the challenges women face in gaming communities and the importance of diverse and interesting character portrayals. Key Takeaways: Game context can change how a character is perceived. A female character in a bikini in a beach volleyball game might not feel objectified in the way that the same character in the same outfit in a war game might. How women are portrayed in video games can influence gender stereotypes in society. To be able to interface with gaming technologies and utilize video games as an entertainment option allows you to develop tech savviness and comfort with technology that can boost your skills in other aspects of your life. Gaming is not just for young people. It is not just for any one demographic. While the term “gamer” can be gatekept by certain members of the gaming community, if you play games, you are a gamer. "Everybody benefits from more interesting characters and from lots of different kinds of physical portrayals of characters." — Dr. Teresa Lynch Connect with Dr. Teresa Lynch: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Jill Dixon: Rising Food Insecurity in America
10/28/2025
Jill Dixon: Rising Food Insecurity in America
In this episode, Therese Markow and Jill Dixon discuss the rising food insecurity in the U.S., highlighting the critical role of food banks. Jill explains that food banks coordinate efforts across 200+ food banks and thousands of food pantries. The Food Depot in Northern New Mexico serves 43,000 people annually, distributing 10 million pounds of food. Recent cuts to federal programs like TEFAP and SNAP have significantly impacted food banks, with the Food Depot losing 10% of its food supply and 58,000 New Mexicans at risk of losing SNAP benefits. Dixon emphasizes the need for community support and innovative programs to address these challenges. Key Takeaways: Food banks across the US all have different requirements based on the people they serve, where they are, and what those people need. If you’ve seen one food bank, you’ve seen one food bank. While food drives are still extremely meaningful and important, fund drives are becoming increasingly common and necessary. The vast majority of people who receive SNAP assistance and turn to food banks when SNAP assistance is not enough are already working at least one job or are caregivers. Food banks are a highly sophisticated business network, working together nationwide to acquire supplies through different means. "Hunger is not actually its own issue. It's a symptom of poverty; it's a symptom of the cost-of-living crisis that is making it increasingly hard year over year." — Jill Dixon Connect with Jill Dixon: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Irin Carmon: Unbearable
10/21/2025
Irin Carmon: Unbearable
In this episode, Therese Markow and Irin Carmon discuss Irin’s new book, “Unbearable: Five Women and the Perils of Pregnancy in America.” 80% of maternal deaths in the United States are due to completely preventable reasons. She highlights the three pillars of reproductive justice: the right not to have a child, the right to have a child, and the right to parent in a safe community. She shares her personal experiences and those of five women to illustrate systemic inequalities in maternal care. Irin emphasizes the need for respectful, autonomous care and the impact of systemic racism and misogyny on maternal health outcomes. Key Takeaways: Abortion care affects all levels of pregnancy care. In many states, such as Alabama, many former abortion clinics want to turn into birth centers, but are prevented by the government and state medical associations. 80% of maternal deaths in the United States are due to completely preventable reasons. In the US, we have a system where OBGYNs are classified as primary care providers and are the most common way people give birth, which is not right for everyone. False binaries (C-Section vs vaginal birth, epidural or not, etc.) are a way to pit women against each other for their own biological story that is often outside of their control. "There's something profoundly wrong with a system that doesn't recognize your full humanity at a point where you need it the most. Because these are life and death experiences, even in the best of circumstances and regardless of the course of your pregnancy and your choices around it, they concern our deepest held values and our ideas about our destiny." — Irin Carmon Episode References: Pregnancy Justice: Connect with Irin Carmon: Professional Bio: Website: Book: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. James Michael Thomas: What's Critical Race Theory?
10/14/2025
Dr. James Michael Thomas: What's Critical Race Theory?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. James Michael Thomas discuss Critical Race Theory (CRT). Dr. Thomas explains CRT as a framework for understanding persistent racism post-Civil Rights Era, emphasizing its structural presence in law, education, and urban planning. He highlights the misconceptions around CRT, noting it's often misrepresented in legislative efforts to ban it. Dr. Thomas also discusses systemic racism, implicit vs. explicit racism, and the concept of white privilege. He shares personal anecdotes and research on white Southerners' awareness of racial advantages, and critiques legislative attempts to control education and maintain inequality. Key Takeaways: Critical Race Theory is a framework for understanding how racism persisted and continues to persist in the post-Civil Rights Era. We distinguish systemic racism from personal acts of prejudice, racist attitudes, or racist actions because those individual attitudes and actions do not have the same effect on the distribution of power, resources, and opportunity. Many who object to teaching American history, good and bad, often are in power and do not want to discuss the unequal arrangements that have resulted from the racism and inequality that have shaped this country and present-day conditions, nor do they want to have their source of power questioned. Race has no basis in biology; race is a social construction. "When Critical Race theorists consider the idea of racial progress, what they're trying to do is make distinctions between changes in law and then how that law is enforced or not enforced, and if it is enforced, often unevenly and with very mixed results." — Dr. James Michael Thomas Episode References: ‘It’s a complicated time to be a white Southerner’ - and their views on race reflect that: Connect with Dr. James Michael Thomas: Professional Bio: Books: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Anya Prince: Dangers of DTC Genetic Testing
10/07/2025
Anya Prince: Dangers of DTC Genetic Testing
In this episode, Therese Markow and Law Professor Anya Prince discuss the pros and cons of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing. DTC testing, which began in the 1990s and grew significantly by the 2010s, allows individuals to purchase genetic tests without a doctor's prescription. By 2021, 100 million people globally used DTC testing. Companies like 23andMe and Ancestry offer ancestry, health, and wellness information. However, concerns include data privacy, potential genetic discrimination, and the accuracy of health results. Professor Prince breaks down the 2023 data breach at 23andMe, discusses what DTC companies do with customer data (including DNA samples), and what third parties may be interested in the data collected by these companies. Key Takeaways: There are hundreds of DTC genetic testing companies out there with a variety of levels of security measures. Some are going to be more secure than others. Depending on which DTC company you use, some will destroy your genetic sample, but others may keep it indefinitely, potentially for future research and use. The US doesn't have any general data privacy protections, nor any broad genetic privacy action or protection. However, many states are beginning to pass general data protection laws. There is no right or wrong answer for participating in genetic testing. It is something each needs to weigh the pros and cons for themselves and understand what is important to them and the risks they are willing to take. "For the most part, DTC companies can do a lot with your data, and the customer doesn't have too much control over it. The main protection is a company's privacy policy." — Anya Prince Connect with Anya Prince: Professional Bio: Publications: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Dorothy Leidner: AI Romance - Boyfriends, Girlfriends
09/30/2025
Dr. Dorothy Leidner: AI Romance - Boyfriends, Girlfriends
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Dorothy Leidner discuss the growing trend of personal relationships with AI, including AI-generated therapists and romantic partners. Dr. Leidner highlights the history of AI in therapy, noting the shift from rule-based systems in the 60s to generative models today. She emphasizes the potential dangers, such as AI encouraging harmful behaviors and replacing real human interaction. She also discusses the lack of regulation in the U.S. and the need for responsible AI development. The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing AI as a technology rather than a human counterpart to prevent unhealthy dependencies. Key Takeaways: Most chatbots and AI are not trained for therapy or relationships, but many people are using them for that. There are specific programs that have been developed based on therapy and mental health knowledge. Many people who are using generative AI and chatbots in a therapeutic way do not yet realize they need therapy, and the AI encourages the person to continue talking to the chatbot. People may forget that their AI boyfriend or girlfriend isn’t real. Generative AI has been trained on so many books and types of writing that it is good at predicting what should come next and coming up with language that is realistic. But it is important to remember that it is just a technology. "One of the things that bothers me about AI is how it talks in the first person. And to me, it's deceitful, because it's not an I, it's an object. It is a piece of software running on a piece of hardware, and for it to refer to itself as ‘I’ then it's definitely humanizing it and technologies are being humanized enough already just by the language." — Dr. Dorothy Leidner Connect with Dr. Dorothy Leidner: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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P.E. Moskowitz: Breaking Awake
09/23/2025
P.E. Moskowitz: Breaking Awake
In this episode, Therese Markow and P.E. Moskowitz discuss P.E.’s new book, Breaking Awake, which explores their lifelong struggle with trauma and mental health. They recount their near-death experience in Charlottesville in 2017 and their subsequent journey of self-discovery. P.E. critiques the reliance on SSRIs and other medications for mental health, arguing these provide temporary relief but do not address the root causes of trauma. They emphasize the importance of community and collective grieving in addressing societal stressors. P.E. also highlights the societal pressures that drive individuals to substance abuse and the need for systemic changes to address mental health issues. Key Takeaways: Many people’s struggles with trauma are deeply personal, shaped by near-death experiences, substance use, and the long process of healing through writing and therapy. Medications such as SSRIs and Adderall can help, but they often fail to address underlying trauma or the broader societal causes of distress. Economic instability, lack of community, and global crises all contribute significantly to widespread anxiety, depression, and substance use. A “quick fix” culture often prioritizes fast solutions over long-term care like therapy, community, and systemic change. Healing and resilience are most powerfully nurtured in supportive communities, where collective action and shared experiences provide hope. "If you experience [community], it makes it easier to fight, because all of a sudden you have something to fight for, not just something to fight against." — P.E. Moskowitz Episode References: Breaking Awake: A Reporter's Search for a New Life, and a New World, Through Drugs. How to Kill a City: Gentrification, Inequality, and the Fight for the Neighborhood. The Case Against Free Speech: The First Amendment, Fascism, and the Future of Dissent. Connect with P.E. Moskowitz: Website: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Amaal Starling: Migraine News and New Treatment
09/16/2025
Dr. Amaal Starling: Migraine News and New Treatment
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Amaal Starling discuss the prevalence and impact of migraines, affecting approximately 1 billion people worldwide. Dr. Starling highlights the genetic and hormonal factors and discusses the different subtypes of migraines. They delve into the importance of talking to your doctor or seeing a headache specialist if you are experiencing headaches and migraines, as well as the economic burden of migraines in the US. Finally, they discuss exciting new treatment options, ones that have been developed over the last decade. Key Takeaways: There is a lot of stigma around people with migraines. Women with migraines and pain conditions are disproportionately stigmatized. 1 in 5 women, 1 in 11 children, and 1 in 16 men are affected by migraines - an average of 1 in 7 worldwide. Different people will experience migraines and migraine treatment differently. They all also have different triggers, though some are more common, such as red wine, nitrates, and caffeine. Many new migraine treatment options are not covered, either immediately or at all, by insurance providers. Colic in infants appears to be associated with increased risk of adult migraine. "There is still a lot to learn about the genetics of migraines. Genetics is a strong factor in who is going to have migraines versus not, but there are also a lot of other external and internal factors." — Dr. Amaal Starling Episode References: American Migraine Foundation: Connect with Dr. Amaal Starling: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Richard Kirk: Necropolitics and inequality
09/09/2025
Richard Kirk: Necropolitics and inequality
In this episode, Therese Markow and Richard Kirk discuss the rise of inequality and homelessness, highlighting the lack of access to healthcare and resources for marginalized populations. They delve into the myth of trickle-down wealth and the downsides of gentrification. Richard also discusses the impact of large projects, such as stadiums, which increase property values and rents, exacerbating homelessness. He emphasizes the need for better regulations and policies to address these issues. Key Takeaways: There is no adequate tracking of the fates of people displaced by gentrification, large-scale projects, and other circumstances. Gentrification sometimes starts informally with young professionals, artists, or students moving into an affordable area with new businesses following. Other times, it is intentional with cities and developers targeting an area for development, but this is often done without protections for those original community members. People in displaced communities often don’t have the knowledge and energy, due to the roadblocks placed by those in charge and the need to work, in order to fight back against the gentrification and aggressive acquisition of their property. Since the 1970s, the government has stepped back from providing affordable housing and robust social safety nets, prioritizing private investment and large development projects. "It's really, really hard to combat something that is a global phenomenon without major reforms at the federal level. But elections at every scale matter, and voting still matters." — Richard Kirk Episode References: SAJE - Necropolitics by Achille Mbembe: Neoliberal necropolitics and the global competition for urban dominance by Richard Kirk - Connect with Richard Kirk: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Molly Hales: Children Use Antiaging Creams!!
09/02/2025
Dr. Molly Hales: Children Use Antiaging Creams!!
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Molly Hales discuss the growing trend of young children using anti-aging skincare products, influenced by social media and influencers. Dr. Hales highlights the concerns about the rise in young patients with skin reactions to these products. These young users often apply multiple products with potentially irritating ingredients (and often multiple active ingredients or multiple products with the same active ingredient). Dr. Hales also emphasizes the need for basic skincare routines for young users, with a focus on sunscreen, and calls for better education and regulation to protect these children. Key Takeaways: Girls as young as 9 are increasingly using antiaging creams geared to older women. These products contain ingredients and are designed for more mature skin rather than youthful skin. Sunscreen is the number one recommended product for people of all ages (except babies under 6 months). This is also not the most commonly used product among social media influencers with their viral skincare routines. There are three main risks associated with using improper skincare products, with the main risk being irritation (irritant contact dermatitis). Brands get more attention and recognition by sending free products to influencers for videos, reaching a wider (and younger) audience than they might otherwise. "It seems like, as more younger and younger people are putting more and more products on their skin, that there is more and more skin allergy that's happening and that's going to follow kids around for the rest of their lives." — Dr. Molly Hales Episode References: Pediatric Skin Care Regimens on TikTok - Molly Hales, MD, PhD - Connect with Dr. Molly Hales: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Eve Espey: End to Reproductive Rights
07/29/2025
Dr. Eve Espey: End to Reproductive Rights
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Eve Espey discuss the impact of the US Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v Wade. Dr. Espey explains that 41 states have abortion bans, with 12 states imposing total bans and 28 states restricting based on gestational duration. She highlights the increased maternal mortality and health risks due to these restrictions. She also emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and training for medical professionals in reproductive health care. Key Takeaways: The overturning of Roe v Wade reversed about 50 years of women’s reproductive rights. In many states, the Roe v Wade protections had been chipped away over the years, even before it was overturned. Abortion bans are about more than abortion - they affect women’s health care in areas of family planning, cancer screenings, and basic preventative health care. Contraception and abortion are integral parts of comprehensive women's health care. "We do have a very energized group of people around this issue and much more scholarship and advocacy than in days past. So I would say we need to keep up the fight, and we need to keep supporting our learners to really understand why this care is so important and how to provide it." — Dr. Eve Espey Episode References: Aid Access: Reproductive Justice: Connect with Dr. Eve Espey: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Emily Callaci: Wages for Housework
07/22/2025
Dr. Emily Callaci: Wages for Housework
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Emily Callaci discuss the Wages for Housework movement, highlighting the 1970s campaign demanding payment for unpaid labor in the home or “housework”. Dr. Callaci explains the movement's relevance today, noting that women's unpaid work has significant economic consequences. The conversation explores the historical context, the five key figures behind the movement, and the economic and cultural implications of unpaid housework. Callaci emphasizes the need for recognition of and payment for housework to address gender inequality and improve women's autonomy and economic well-being. Key Takeaways: A recent statistic from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows women's unpaid work in the US has a value of about $3.6 trillion. The economy would grind to a halt without the housework that is, primarily, done by women: cooking, cleaning, laundry, child-rearing, etc. The wages for housework movement are not gendered; they equally affect men and women who do housework. Recognizing the work that people do, paid and unpaid, is the first step in really transforming the social consciousness. "Wages for housework was not arguing that we should all become housewives and that should be our profession instead of the other things we might want to do. Rather, it was about recognizing the way that work is exploited. In our economic system, if you don't recognize it, if you don't see it and name it, then how can you overcome it?" — Dr. Emily Callaci Connect with Dr. Emily Callaci: Professional Bio: Books: Street Archives and City Life: Wages for Housework: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Peter Liang: Rise in Colon Cancers in the Young
07/15/2025
Dr. Peter Liang: Rise in Colon Cancers in the Young
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Peter Liang discuss the rise in colorectal cancer among younger people, those below the age of 50. While colorectal cancer is a slow-growing cancer, it is still the third most common cancer for both men and women, and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Due to the trend of decreasing age in colorectal cancer patients, screening guidelines have been lowered to 45, but can be done earlier as needed, based on risk factors. Dr. Liang emphasizes the importance of screening, diet, exercise, and awareness of family history in preventing and detecting colorectal cancer early. Key Takeaways: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cause of cancer in both men and women. It is the second leading cause of cancer death behind lung cancer. Early-onset colorectal cancer is traditionally defined as occurring in people under age 50. However, there is a rise in people in their 40s, though some (though they are a minority) are in their 20s or 30s. Colorectal cancer is unique due to the number of different tests available for screening for prevention. Colorectal cancer is a slow-growing cancer. A single polyp can sometimes take 10-20 years to develop into cancer. There is no evidence correlating constipation with colorectal cancer. If people want to do juices or fasts or colonics, that is fine, but there is no medical need to do it. If you have symptoms that are concerning, tell your doctor. Sometimes you do need to advocate for yourself to get additional testing. "Any test that is not a colonoscopy and is abnormal does need to be followed by a colonoscopy. How we prevent Colorectal cancer is by going in with the colonoscopy, removing polyps (which can turn into cancer), or by finding the cancer early, so that your prognosis is much better." — Dr. Peter Liang Connect with Dr. Peter Liang: Professional Bio: Website: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Joshua Woolley: Psychedelic Treatments for Mental Health
07/08/2025
Dr. Joshua Woolley: Psychedelic Treatments for Mental Health
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Joshua Woolley discuss his transition from neurology to psychiatry and his current focus on psychedelic drug therapies. He explains the mechanisms and effects of psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD, highlighting their potential to treat depression and other mental health conditions. Dr. Woolley describes controlled clinical trials at the University of California, San Francisco, where patients undergo psychedelic experiences with therapeutic support. He notes the challenges and benefits of these treatments, including long-term positive effects in alleviating depression. He also addresses the regulatory hurdles and the potential for future FDA approval of psychedelic therapies. Key Takeaways: While SSRIs can and have saved a lot of people, they don’t work fully or at all for some people. Some diagnoses don’t have any effective pharmacotherapies, such as anorexia, methamphetamine use disorder, and even PTSD. Over the years, a lot of people have said that psychedelics have allowed them to have real, transformative experiences. It is a common description. To conduct psychedelic research, you have to get permission from multiple organizations, including the FDA and the DEA. People do sometimes have frightening experiences when they take psychedelics. This is not likely to happen in a clinical setting with support. "Almost every psychiatric illness can be thought of as an inability to change something about emotions, thoughts, or behavior. If psychedelics really do reopen these critical periods, or allow people a period of a window of changeability, that would be a real game changer." — Dr. Joshua Woolley Connect with Dr. Joshua Woolley: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Maternal Obesity and Childhood Cancer
07/01/2025
Maternal Obesity and Childhood Cancer
In this episode, Therese Markow interviews Dr. Shaina Stacy about her studies on cancer risks in children depending upon the body mass index (BMI) of their mothers before and during pregnancy. Dr. Stacy explains how she obtained a sample of nearly 2 million mother-child pairs in the state of Pennsylvania, the largest sample size ever for such a study. They discuss how children of women with a BMI of over 30 when pregnant had a significantly higher risk of cancers compared to children of lean mothers. This was notable for leukemia in children under 5, especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The mechanism underlying the increased risk is not yet known. Key Takeaways: Maternal obesity before and during pregnancy increases the risk of cancers in children under 5 years of age. The risk of leukemia, especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia or ALL, is the greatest. Children of white, educated women, if obese during pregnancy, have the highest risk. Transgenerational effects of obesity are becoming more apparent. "We found that children born to mothers in our highest BMI category had over 30% higher risk of developing any type of childhood cancer." — Dr. Shaina Stacy Connect with Dr. Shaina Stacy: Scientific American Blog Post: Cancer Prevention Should Start before Birth - LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Cheryl Hawkes: Maternal Obesity Harms Fetal Brain Development
06/24/2025
Dr. Cheryl Hawkes: Maternal Obesity Harms Fetal Brain Development
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Cheryl Hawkes discuss the increasing scientific evidence that maternal obesity affects the developing fetal brain. While many of the effects manifest early, in infant temperament and childhood cognitive (IQ) decrements, other effects do not show up until years later, in adult psychiatric and neurodegenerative problems. The physical bases for these changes in fetal brains are also clearly evidenced in laboratory model systems, such as mice, where the maternal diets can be controlled, and the offspring not only can be given behavioral tests, but their brains can be dissected to reveal the changes in the blood vessels caused by obese mothers. Key Takeaways: Children born to obese mothers have lower IQs and poorer motor, spatial, and verbal skills. Mice and rodents have similar brain development to humans, which is why rodent study models are so beneficial to science. Brain maturation takes many years. Your brain is fully formed at birth, but continues to mature and change into your mid-twenties. "Because of the rise in obesity globally, a lot of people have started to look, rather than looking at famine…, to now shift our attention to looking at the long-term effects of obesity because 30% of women around the world, over the age of 18, are now considered to be obese." — Dr. Cheryl Hawkes Connect with Dr. Cheryl Hawkes: Lancaster University Profile: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Diane Tober: Egg Donation Can Exploit Donors
06/17/2025
Dr. Diane Tober: Egg Donation Can Exploit Donors
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Diane Tober discuss the global egg donation industry, highlighting its lack of regulations and exploitative nature. Dr. Tober details some of her research on egg donors, revealing severe risks and some life-threatening complications that can affect 10-12% of donors. They discuss how donors are often uninformed about the risks and the pressures faced by donors to donate beyond current guidelines. With compensation varying wildly, there are often financial pressures that donors face, too. Finally, Dr. Tober advocates for standardized informed consent, actual limits on donation cycles, and a national registry to track donor health. Key Takeaways: Changes to preserving and freezing eggs in 2013 changed from slow freezing to flash freezing, which better preserved the egg and changed the industry. Not having limits on the number of children that can be born from donated sperm or eggs can have dire consequences for the people conceived from those donations. There are discrepancies in compensation based on education, race, and other traits that are considered to be desirable for intended parents. There are no consistent laws or regulations regarding who pays for donor medical complications. There is no perfect system currently existing for egg donation. But creating a safer system could begin with a donor registry. "Sometimes donors exceed the limit because of the financial incentives, and sometimes donors exceed the limit because they're coerced or enticed by the agencies or clinics that are using them and profiting off of them." — Dr. Diane Tober Connect with Dr. Diane Tober: Professional Bio: Website: Book: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Kim Mutcherson: Millions of Frozen Embryos!
06/10/2025
Kim Mutcherson: Millions of Frozen Embryos!
In this episode, Therese Markow and Kim Mutcherson discuss the legal and ethical implications of the increasing number of frozen embryos and the complications of assisted reproductive technologies. With an estimated over 1 million frozen embryos in the United States, this is a complex topic, particularly around state laws, embryo disposition, the financial costs of IVF, and the potential increased regulation and legal challenges moving forward. Key Takeaways: There is no hard data on how many embryos are currently frozen around the world, but there are estimated to be millions. States differ, legally speaking, as to whether an embryo is considered a person. How do we determine what obligations related people have to an embryo?. There are many different options for what you can have done with your embryos, and those outcomes should be included in the contract before any medical care is provided. Because laws regarding frozen embryos vary from state to state and this should be considered when people are looking to set up a clinic or go through the process. "Once you have created a business - an industry - that creates human beings, it is inevitable that you are going to run into all sorts of really difficult issues. You can't get around it. It's just the nature of the thing. And so if we're going to have this industry, and if it's going to exist, we're going to constantly be asking ourselves difficult legal questions, difficult ethical questions, and difficult moral questions." — Kim Mutcherson Connect with Kim Mutcherson: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: X: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Chris Beyrer: Cuts to USAID Harm the Health and Prosperity of US Citizens
06/03/2025
Dr. Chris Beyrer: Cuts to USAID Harm the Health and Prosperity of US Citizens
The opinions expressed by Dr. Beyrer are his own and not those of his employer. In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Chris Beyrer discuss the importance of USAID, highlighting its role in global health and development, particularly through programs like PEPFAR, which has saved 25 million lives and prevented millions of HIV infections. Dr. Beyrer emphasizes that the economic and security benefits of USAID, whose support amounts to less than 1% of the total US federal budget, have had important benefits at home in the United States. It protects us from infectious diseases like Ebola and MPOX. Cuts to USAID could lead to a resurgence of HIV, polio, malaria, and other diseases. Finally, Dr. Beyrer advocates for listeners to become informed, to understand what is happening, and to engage in their citizenship rights for the benefit of all. Key Takeaways: By law, USAID was only allowed to buy food from US farmers, but stopping USAID has thrown farmers into crisis due to the unstable purchasing now. Until January 20, 2025, USAID was supporting about 21 million people worldwide on antiviral therapy. It was also one of the biggest funders and supporters of HIV prevention because treatment is not enough - you must reduce new infections to get out from under the treatment burden. The only group right now that we are supporting PrEP for is pregnant or lactating, breastfeeding mothers who are at risk for HIV. Everybody else who is on PrEP has been abruptly halted. 2025 could be the year that we see the beginning of the second wave of the AIDS pandemic. "These programs really save lives. They have saved millions of lives. We know that; we've documented it carefully. It is so important to be informed, to stay informed, to understand what is happening, and really to engage. Now, more than ever, engage in your citizenship rights." — Dr. Chris Beyrer Connect with Dr. Chris Beyrer: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Adam Berinsky: Political Rumors and Misinformation
05/27/2025
Dr. Adam Berinsky: Political Rumors and Misinformation
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Adam Berinsky discuss political rumors and misinformation. Dr. Berinsky defines rumors as unsubstantiated claims without evidence, emphasizing their social transmission. He identifies two factors influencing rumor belief: conspiratorial thinking and partisan polarization. Berinsky's research reveals that while some people firmly believe rumors, others are ambivalent and more open to correction. He suggests focusing on these undecided individuals rather than entrenched believers. Berinsky also highlights the role of political leaders in spreading misinformation and the need for creative messaging to counteract it. Key Takeaways: Political rumors (or misinformation) are claims that are unsubstantiated by the balance of publicly available information. Republicans and Democrats are equally (or very nearly) likely to believe different pieces of misinformation that they're presented with. Currently, Republican politicians are more likely to spread misinformation. The more attention you pay to politics, the more likely you are to listen to people on your side. Better-educated and more informed people should be more likely to reject misinformation, but what we find is that actually, they're more attuned to the partisan angle of that information. "Maybe our effort is better spent on trying to get these people who are not sure where they stand, because those are the people that we can move." — Dr. Adam Berinsky Connect with Dr. Adam Berinsky: Professional Bio: Website: Book: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: BlueSky: @CriticallySpeaking.bsky.social Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Near Death Experiences
05/20/2025
Near Death Experiences
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. James Alcock discuss what near-death experiences are and the increase in them in recent years due to improvements in medical technology. While near-death experiences (NDEs) have been known about for a long time, we, as a scientific community, are starting to understand more about what they mean for neurological processes. However, despite knowing the science of what is happening, NDEs and how they are experienced are subject to one’s own beliefs, context, and even religious framework. Dr. Alcock and Therese also discuss the relationship between near-death experiences, hallucinations, and even reactions to various drugs and how they create powerful subjective experiences. Key Takeaways: In surveys taken in the United States, about 3% of people have reported having near-death experiences. This number can be difficult to assess as they are based on memory and the surveys are taken, sometimes years after the incident in question. It is difficult to prove near-death experiences in research studies due to the subjectivity of what is being perceived. Even with the science that we do know, those who have near-death experiences (including neurologists who have studied the brain) report the reality of the feelings and perceptions that are felt in these experiences. "Context is important. Our interpretation is important. And it's very difficult, if not impossible, for any individual to distinguish between reality and subjective fantasies in those situations." — Dr. James Alcock Connect with Dr. James Alcock: Wikipedia Page: Book: Magazine: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Deborah Lang: What is Skin Cancer?
05/13/2025
Dr. Deborah Lang: What is Skin Cancer?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Deborah Lang discuss the rise of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, and its causes. Dr. Lang explains that skin cancers are derived from different skin cells: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both linked to UV exposure, and melanoma, which can be UV-independent and linked to genetic susceptibility. Dr. Lang emphasizes the importance of early detection and personalized medicine, noting that melanoma can metastasize early. She also highlights the role of genetic mutations in cancer development and the impact of funding cuts on cancer research. Key Takeaways: There are three major types of skin cancer. About 80% are basal cell carcinomas. Because we are living longer, we have an increased chance of cancer. However, other reasons for increased skin cancer include increased UV exposure and tanning beds. We are all born with moles, but if you notice a change or have a lot (such as over 100), it is worth getting them checked out. Between 5 and 25 minutes of sun exposure per day is enough for your vitamin D production (less for lighter skin). However, sunlight has other benefits for your health and circadian rhythm. "Melanomas are derived from a different type of cell - from cells that produce pigment called melanocytes. While this type of cancer is much rarer than basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, it is the most lethal type of skin cancer." — Dr. Deborah Lang Episode References: NIH: American Cancer Society: Leo Foundation: Connect with Dr. Deborah Lang: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: ResearchGate: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Anice Lowen: Bird Flu - Should We Worry?
05/06/2025
Dr. Anice Lowen: Bird Flu - Should We Worry?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Anice Lowen discuss the bird flu outbreak, highlighting the virus’s spread from birds to dairy cattle and recorded cases of human infection. Dr. Lowen explains the differences between influenza A and influenza B viruses, talks about which type causes pandemics, and what we can do to try to prevent future pandemics from these flu strains. Key Takeaways: An epidemic affects a specific region, a pandemic is global. Only Influenza A viruses can cause pandemics and are often transmitted via birds and mammals. Humans can become infected with viruses from animals only if we are exposed to those animals. Flu epidemics happen every winter due to the circulation of influenza A and B viruses. Pandemics happen sporadically, the last four were well documented in 1918, 1957, 1968, and 2009. Bird flu can become serious if human to another. So monitoring is critical. "Viruses circulating in these domestic animals actually present the greatest pandemic risk simply because humans are exposed to those animals more than they are to wild animals." — Dr. Anice Lowen Connect with Dr. Anice Lowen: Professional Bio: Website: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Joshua Weitz: Asymptomatic COVID-19 Spreaders
04/29/2025
Dr. Joshua Weitz: Asymptomatic COVID-19 Spreaders
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Joshua Weitz discuss his book "Asymptomatic: The Silent Spread of COVID-19 and the Future of Pandemics" and his work in understanding the risk of COVID spread from as early as spring of 2020. He highlights the double-edged sword of asymptomatic infections, discusses what governments could do to help mitigate at-risk populations, and what we, as individuals, can do to help keep everyone safe. Dr. Weitz criticizes early predictions of COVID-19's disappearance by mid-2020, attributing the error to underestimated infections and behavioral changes. He emphasizes the importance of public health measures, vaccination, and testing, especially in vulnerable populations. Finally, Dr. Weitz talks about the role of asymptomatic transmission in future pandemics and the need for proactive public health investments. Key Takeaways: Not having symptoms doesn’t mean that you never had COVID-19. Nearly 50% of cases in early 2020 were asymptomatic (though that number varies by age). There was not one single group of modelers trying to make sense of the data coming out of the pandemic. As such, different projections can come out even from the same pandemic information. For infectious diseases, our behavior is correlated with the risk. COVID is not the flu. COVID is not gone, and we now have a double seasonal burden from both flu and COVID. If everyone is asymptomatic or it was always mild, we wouldn't worry. We wouldn't have stopped things or been so upset just by cases or infections; it was the severe ones and the number of severe cases that dictated the approach to control, as the transmission potential by asymptomatic individuals was not considered. "The double-edged sword is good news, in some sense, for individuals, but it's bad news for populations, because many more people can be infected. They're contagious and interact with more people. When we try to think from a public health perspective, not just a personal health perspective, then we have to be concerned." — Dr. Joshua Weitz Connect with Dr. Joshua Weitz: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Substack: Website: Book: Asymptomatic: The Silent Spread of COVID-19 and the Future of Pandemics Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Ajit Nirmal: Arms Race Against Cancer
04/22/2025
Dr. Ajit Nirmal: Arms Race Against Cancer
When we hear the term tumor or cancer, the image that often comes to mind is a bunch of bad cells next to normal ones, and growing. Like many things, it's just not that simple. How do the normal cells turn bad? Can our immune systems detect the cancer cell and kill it? Why does some initially successful chemotherapy stop working? Why does cancer spread? These are all great questions, since cancers of one kind or another will affect so many of us either as patients, friends, or loved ones. Well, basic science is providing some critical answers. In today’s episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Ajit Nirmal discuss just these questions. Key Takeaways: If we didn't have an immune system, we'd all get cancer. Drug resistance continues to be the principal limiting factor to achieving cures in patients with cancer. Once a normal cell has turned cancerous, it is likely dividing much faster than a normal cell. This rapid cell division is error-prone and can lead to the accumulation of mutations at a much faster rate. "I truly believe, with adequate basic understanding of the molecular underpinnings of cancer evolution, and how the tumor microenvironment helps it or promotes it, we will be able to predict the best course of action to target all cancer cells up until the very last one, and consequently to the patient." — Dr. Ajit Nirmal Connect with Dr. Ajit Nirmal: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Jodi Gilman: Cannabis and Your Brain
04/15/2025
Dr. Jodi Gilman: Cannabis and Your Brain
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Jodi Gilman discuss the implications of cannabis use on health and safety. Dr. Gilman explains that THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, affecting areas involved in emotion, memory, and decision-making. Cannabis use can lead to long-term brain alterations, particularly in adolescents, frequent users, and those using high-potency products. Dr. Gilman highlights the risks of cannabis-induced psychosis, depression, and anxiety, especially in those with a family history of psychosis. She also notes the lack of evidence for medical marijuana's efficacy and the challenges in detecting cannabis impairment. Key Takeaways: Edibles typically last longer than smoked or vaped cannabis, but it takes longer to feel the effects. It can take 30-60 minutes to reach the brain. The three things that make cannabis risky are the age you start to use cannabis, the frequency of use, and the potency of the product you are using. Those three factors increase the likelihood of long-term alterations on the brain, structurally and functionally. Cannabis is a psychoactive substance, like alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, and cocaine; it is addictive to some people. It is estimated that 1 in 5 people who use cannabis will become addicted. THC impairs attention, it impairs coordination, and it impairs reaction time - all of these are critical for driving. THC is thought to double the risk of a crash. "People think cannabis is safe, like bubble gum. It’s not bubble gum. It's a psychoactive compound that affects your brain, and you really need to be cautious about these products." — Dr. Jodi Gilman Connect with Dr. Jodi Gilman: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Robert Meade: Health Dangers from Rising Heat
04/08/2025
Dr. Robert Meade: Health Dangers from Rising Heat
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Robert Meade, an expert in thermal physiology, discuss the dangers posed to human health by the rising heat. Dr Meade explains that extreme heat is a combination of air temperature and humidity, which can strain the body's ability to regulate temperature. He notes that older adults and women may be more vulnerable to heat stress due to reduced sweating and cardiovascular function. They talk about the differences between heat stress and heat stroke and how to identify symptoms to keep an eye on if you are in a hot environment. The discussion highlights the challenges of accurately measuring heat-related deaths and the importance of adaptive strategies, such as cool roofs and reflective pavements, to mitigate heat stress. Dr. Meade also mentions an ongoing study in India on the heat stress experienced by informal workers. Key Takeaways: Heat stress is more than just temperature and humidity. Activity, clothing, location, and anything else that impedes and impacts the body can change the level of heat stress. What constitutes extreme heat will vary from person to person. Evaporative cooling is impacted by humidity - it's much harder to evaporate fluid from the skin into the air when there's already a lot of moisture in the air. The impacts of heat on the body are difficult to correctly identify in hospitals or medical records. "The response the body takes to help maintain safe internal body temperatures implicates many bodily systems. Heat has a kind of widespread cascading effects that are just really hard to correctly identify." — Dr. Robert Meade Connect with Dr. Robert Meade: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: X: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Brandon Sparks: Incels - Involuntary Celibacy
04/01/2025
Dr. Brandon Sparks: Incels - Involuntary Celibacy
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Brandon Sparks discuss the phenomenon of involuntary celibacy (incels). Dr. Sparks, an applied forensic psychologist, explains that incels are men experiencing long-term involuntary celibacy, often due to social exclusion and bullying during adolescence. Incels, primarily aged 18-30, are less likely to be in education or employment. The term "incel" originated from a woman's project at Carleton University. Incels often self-identify online, where they discuss the "Black Pill" philosophy, a nihilistic view of society. Dr. Sparks highlights the need for empathy and understanding to address their isolation and frustration. Key Takeaways: The modern iteration is often “incel” refers exclusively to men who are experiencing involuntary celibacy and they've been experiencing this for quite some time. They've come to believe that they can't form romantic or sexual relationships, and that's causing them an extreme amount of distress. For women who identify with the experience of an incel, they are often called “femcels”. There's a lot of incels that are looking to talk to people and to share their experiences. One of the biggest risk factors in adolescence is the people who are already being left behind. This seems to indicate that there's certainly a subset of people who struggle to catch up. "Incel philosophy as we know it, based on forum analysis they've created this worldview called the “Black Pill”, which is a nihilistic perspective of the world. It's this very transactional view of relationships, which is quite problematic because they're viewing women as master manipulators, playing this big game plan, and that men are just a means to an end for them." — Dr. Brandon Sparks Connect with Dr. Brandon Sparks: Website: Google Scholar: Research Gate: Twitter: Bluesky: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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