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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Ru Marshall: American Trickster - Carlos Castaneda
05/12/2026
Ru Marshall: American Trickster - Carlos Castaneda
Ru Marshall pulls back the curtain on the man behind the myth of Carlos Castaneda, exposing the real lives, lies, and losses buried beneath his legendary books. In this episode, Therese Markow and Ru Marshall discuss the life and legacy of Carlos Castaneda, who claimed to have been trained as a shaman by Don Juan. Castaneda's books, which sold over 8 million copies, were initially believed but later dismissed as fiction. Marshall’s book, "American Trickster," explores Castaneda's origins in Peru and his life in the U.S. Castaneda, born Cesar Arana, was a charismatic storyteller who seduced both women and academics. Despite initial academic support, his claims were eventually debunked. Ru’s research spanned 20 years, revealing Castaneda's complex personal life and the impact of his cult-like following. Key Takeaways: Long before the books, Carlos Castaneda was known as a gifted storyteller and trickster, blurring the line between entertainment, fabrication, and manipulation. Castaneda’s real power was psychological. He made individuals, especially women, feel uniquely seen, chosen, and special, a classic mechanism of charismatic control. The disappearance and deaths of key followers after Castaneda’s passing reveal the devastating human cost when a closed belief system collides with reality. And when followers are willing to follow a narrative all the way to the end. "It’s a really interesting thing, that when people, both professionally and, more importantly, I think, emotionally, become invested in a belief, it is incredibly hard for people to admit they're wrong." — Ru Marshall Connect with Ru Marshall: Website: Threads: Instagram: American Trickster: The Hidden Lives of Carlos Castaneda: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Patrick Wyman: Lost Worlds
05/05/2026
Patrick Wyman: Lost Worlds
In this episode, Therese Markow and Patrick Wyman discuss Patrick’s latest book, Lost Worlds: How Humans Tried, Failed, Succeeded, and Built Our World. Patrick also discusses his journey as a historian from studying the Fall of Rome to popular history. He emphasizes the importance of understanding past climactic changes and their impact on human societies, including the development of agriculture and the rise of social hierarchies. Patrick also highlights the significance of migration and the diverse burial practices that reveal aspects of ancient societies’ beliefs and social structures. Key Takeaways: Human history is not stable, and it always starts with the climate. Climate and environment are the unavoidable parameters within which everyone is living, and, whether people are aware of them or not, they are responding to the pressures and shifts that are happening climatically around them. Abandonment of sites and cities happens over time and often for a variety of reasons that are always specific to the climate systems and problems of that particular area. Modern science, like ancient DNA extraction, now allows us to learn more about dynamics in ancient periods that we never could have seen before. Funerary practices vary across the world in ancient times, as they do in modern times. Often, it is based on one of two poles: when people die, are their spirits potentially dangerous (ghost society) or potentially beneficial (ancestor society)? Every single one of the billions of people who lived was living a life that was full, rich, sophisticated, and complex. As humans, we have been through big, crazy stuff, and yet we are still here and still thriving. Humanity is incredibly durable, and we can make it through some really, really bad times if we work hard and work together. "Migration is humanity's most basic tool for getting out of bad situations and finding better ones. The simplest possible thing you can do if things get bad wherever you're living is to move somewhere else. And this has been our response at every time and on every geographic scale over the course of human existence." — Patrick Wyman Episode References: Lost Worlds: How Humans Tried, Failed, Succeeded, and Built Our World - Connect with Patrick Wyman: Patreon: Threads: TikTok: Instagram: Substack: Bluesky: Shows: The Fall of Rome: Tides of History: Past Lives: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Jeanne Marrazzo, MD: NIH-NIAID Lawsuit
04/28/2026
Jeanne Marrazzo, MD: NIH-NIAID Lawsuit
When a globally respected infectious disease expert is abruptly sidelined by an anti‑vaccine administration, what does it reveal about the future of public health and scientific integrity? In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo discuss her termination and whistleblower lawsuit against the U.S. government. She highlighted NIAID's critical role in infectious disease research, funding $6.6 billion annually. Dr. Marrazzo criticized the new administration's anti-vaccine stance, cessation of global HIV/AIDS funding, and termination of clinical trials, which she argued endangered public health. Dr. Marrazzo filed a whistleblower complaint in September 2025, leading to her firing in October. She now leads the Infectious Disease Society of America, advocating for evidence-based policies and scientific integrity. Key Takeaways: Tuberculosis (TB, formerly known as Consumption) is now the top global killer as an infectious disease. Shutting down clinical trials and cutting international research funding mid‑stream doesn’t just waste taxpayer dollars; it endangers patients who rely on those therapies and violates core ethical standards. Political ideology overriding scientific evidence can rapidly dismantle decades of progress in vaccines, global health research, and public trust. Independent professional societies and medical organizations now play a critical role in evidence above ideology, preserving rigorous guidelines, publishing unbiased research, and speaking truth to power when government agencies are silenced or hollowed out. "What I don't think people realize is the power of the platform that the Secretary and indeed the President have. The tragic part about this is that we've spent decades building up that trust, trying to make sure that it was justified, and to see that just summarily destroyed, there's no other word for it, is really, really tragic. I don't know what it's going to take to build it up again." — Jeanne Marrazzo, MD Connect with Jeanne: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Chelsea Polis: Women's Reproductive Rights on the Move
04/21/2026
Dr. Chelsea Polis: Women's Reproductive Rights on the Move
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Chelsea Polis discuss the evolution of reproductive rights in the U.S., highlighting the 2022 Supreme Court decision revoking the right to abortion and the historical context of contraception access. Dr. Polis also explains fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) and their effectiveness, noting that some methods have moderate quality studies suggesting high effectiveness, while others are less reliable. She emphasizes the importance of evidence-based information, the need for stronger regulation of femtech products, and the potential privacy risks associated with reproductive health data. Dr. Polis also addresses the broader political strategy to limit reproductive rights and the importance of reproductive justice. Key Takeaways: Fertility tracking technologies are becoming more common (often called femtech), but it is important to note that only two apps have currently been cleared by the FDA for contraceptive purposes - Natural Cycles and Clue (the second is not currently available on the market). While others can help with tracking your cycle, they are not cleared for contraceptive use. FABMs focus on observing real-time signs from the body - such as cervical mucus changes and basal body temperature. Over a dozen have been studied in clinical trials, but some methods have been marketed or promoted for contraceptive use without strong evidence from appropriately designed effectiveness studies. For people who are in a partnership that is limited in terms of communication, or not supportive, or certainly abusive, or anything along those lines, FABMs would not be a method that somebody could rely on for pregnancy prevention. Be very cautious about getting your information on contraception from social media influencers or companies selling specific products, because there is a lot of misinformation out there. "As my colleagues at Guttmacher have documented, you can't seek to restrict one aspect of sexual and reproductive health without tightening other types of care and people’s overarching reproductive freedoms. All of these things are deeply interconnected." — Dr. Chelsea Polis Episode References: Guttmacher: Emergence of FemTech in the Sexual and Reproductive Health Landscape: Connect with Dr. Chelsea Polis: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Bluesky: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Osteoporosis and You
04/14/2026
Osteoporosis and You
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Keith McCormick discuss what you need to know about osteoporosis and bone health. Dr. McCormick explains what causes osteoporosis, the importance of early bone density tests, and breaks down some of the lifestyle factors that affect bone health. They discuss the need for personalized treatment beyond only medication, and Dr. McCormick advocates for patient empowerment and comprehensive understanding to improve treatment outcomes. Key Takeaways: 50% of women will get osteoporosis. 20% of men will get osteoporosis. People should be getting bone density tests in their forties, not waiting until their fifties or sixties. The sooner it is discovered you are having symptoms, the sooner you can begin to treat and prevent. Bone strength is a combination of bone density and bone quality. Get both the DEXA and Trabecular Bone Score or TBS. Usually, physicians don’t request the TBS, but it is very important. Ask for it. Testing should include blood tests for bone turnover markers. Your blood is telling a larger story, and it can get complicated. Systemic inflammation can also be tested, as it can contribute to loss of bone density. The more times you stimulate your body, the more you will stimulate the osteoblasts. "It's important to understand that you, the patient, are the boss, and you're paying that person, you're asking that person for help, and that they should be working with you." — Dr. Keith McCormick Connect with Dr. Keith McCormick: Website: LinkedIn: Twitter: Facebook: Books: Great Bones: Taking Control of Your Osteoporosis: The Whole-Body Approach to Osteoporosis: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Dawn Sarno: Cyberscams and You
04/07/2026
Dr. Dawn Sarno: Cyberscams and You
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Dawn Sarno, a leading expert on cyber scams, discuss the prevalence and detection of phishing scams. Dawn explains that phishing often targets older adults due to their perceived lack of tech savvy and higher financial stakes, but notes that younger adults are also vulnerable, often due to impulsivity and poor online habits. She highlights the rise of AI-generated deep fakes, which make scams more convincing and harder to detect. Dawn advises slowing down and verifying suspicious communications, emphasizing the importance of cyber hygiene practices, such as using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication. She also emphasizes the importance of vigilance and reporting scams to help prevent others from falling victim. Key Takeaways: Differences and similarities between fraud, phishing, whaling, deep fakes, scams, and spam. Older adults are often targeted by scams, but they also typically have more to lose relative to a younger adult. While factors associated with age, like loneliness and abnormal cognitive decline, may make you more vulnerable to falling for a scam, Dr. Sarno’s research generally suggests that there may not be a huge difference in detection abilities between younger and older adults. Cyberscams are a numbers game. People often send out messages to large groups (such as everyone at a university) rather than targeting one person at a time. If you notice that something's not right, report it, because this is going to help the social media platform or your organization's IT department find these scams and prevent them from reaching other people. "One big thing I would stress is that if people are ever in doubt, they should never click a link or open an attachment, because that curiosity alone could lead them to have some problems." — Dr. Dawn Sarno Connect with Dr. Dawn Sarno: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Daniel Buchman: Do You Suffer From Chronic Pain?
03/31/2026
Dr. Daniel Buchman: Do You Suffer From Chronic Pain?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Daniel Buchman discuss chronic pain, affecting over 20% of the population in the US, Canada, and Europe. Chronic pain (persisting pain lasting over three months) includes conditions like arthritis, lower back pain, fibromyalgia, and phantom limb pain, among many others. Daniel highlights the challenges in pain assessment, the role of AI in pain management, and the ethical considerations, including bias in pain reporting. He notes that chronic pain increases suicide risk, and the conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding pain and opioid use. Key Takeaways: Pain can come from an identifiable condition, but sometimes doesn't have a clear cause. Primary pain is the type of pain that is not explained by another disease. Secondary pain is pain that arises because of or is related to an underlying condition - perhaps injury, illness, disease, or other reason. When we talk about bias in health care providers, we also need to look at the broader societal bias that plays into those biases. As AI is used more in medicine, we do need to be aware of bias in the data sets that the AI is utilizing to learn and then use to make predictions. Pain is a warning sign. It is not, in and of itself, bad. It is telling you that something might need to be addressed in your body. "There isn't a blood test or a brain scan or anything that can determine how much pain somebody's in, or what it's like to experience that pain. This is subjective because it depends on the person, and it depends on a whole host of factors, not just their biology. It depends on their psychology, social factors, cultural factors, and gender is a big part of this as well." — Dr. Daniel Buchman Episode References: Buchman, Daniel Z.a,b,c,d. 2025 AI and the ethics of techno-solutionism in pain management. PAIN 166: 469-470. | DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003389 Connect with Dr. Daniel Buchman: Professional Bio: Bluesky: X: Google Scholar: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. David Hill: Peanut and Food Allergies in Children
03/24/2026
Dr. David Hill: Peanut and Food Allergies in Children
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. David Hill discuss the rise of peanut allergies in children. David explains that anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, is common in children, often triggered by food. He emphasizes the importance of early allergen introduction to prevent allergies. The LEAP study from 2015 showed that introducing peanuts before six months reduces the risk of peanut allergy. They also discuss other common allergies and the fact that many children outgrow milk and egg allergies by age four. Key Takeaways: The major allergens are milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, and sesame, which are among the most common foods around the world. Thus we must do everything we can to prevent food allergy in the first place. The part of the immune system that causes allergic reactions, was originally evolved to fight parasites. There is still a lot to learn about what causes allergies. Multiple people are working on it now, and we will likely see, in the coming years, new risk factors emerging. "In the first year, specifically somewhere between four to six months of age (once the child is able to handle a solid food in their mouth and swallow appropriately), at that point, we should start to introduce the major allergens." — Dr. David Hill Connect with Dr. David Hill: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Fred Miller: The Autoimmune Disease Epidemic
03/17/2026
Dr. Fred Miller: The Autoimmune Disease Epidemic
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Fred Miller discuss the autoimmune disease epidemic, highlighting the economic burden and the rise of diseases like juvenile diabetes, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. Dr. Miller explains that autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body, affecting various organs. He notes that there are at least 150 types of autoimmune diseases, with prevalence rates varying from 0.1% to 5% of the population - the exact number is unknown due to the need for better registries to track these diseases. Dr. Miller also discusses the role of genetics and environmental factors, lifestyle, and exposure to chemicals. He also mentions new treatments and the importance of lifestyle changes in prevention and management. Key Takeaways: Virtually any organ system or tissue in the body can be damaged by the immune system, which makes autoimmune diseases difficult to assess, diagnose, and treat, as they can be so varied from person to person, and they can change over time. There are no fully agreed-upon definitions for autoimmune diseases. As such, we don’t know how many there are, but most experts would say at least 150 different types. All of the autoimmune diseases are developed from interactions of many genes and many environmental risk factors in combination. Various environmental exposures might not change the genes themselves, but they might alter the normal way that genes are supposed to be turned on and off. "We really don't have a way to measure all of these yet, but we are expanding the range of the types of exposures we can measure every year, and there are a few ways of capturing which exposures or mixtures of them we've experienced at what times, and by integrating all these together into a single number, this could help us understand the cumulative exposures that are that are probably important for the development of these diseases." — Dr. Fred Miller Connect with Dr. Fred Miller: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. John Kisiel: Early Cancer Detection Liquid Biopsy
03/10/2026
Dr. John Kisiel: Early Cancer Detection Liquid Biopsy
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. John Kisiel discuss early cancer detection using liquid biopsies. Dr. Kisiel explains that liquid biopsies detect cancer signals in blood and urine, including tumor cells, fragments, proteins, and DNA. He highlights the FDA's approval of a blood test for colon cancer and the development of multi-cancer early detection tests. Dr. Kisiel notes that false positive and false negative rates vary by test. He emphasizes the potential of liquid biopsies to complement, not replace, standard screening methods and the need for further validation and clinical trials. Key Takeaways: Liquid biopsies have been used in the oncology community to test if cancer is still present, may need additional or more aggressive treatment, or if the cancer has come back. Each test will have its own false positive and false negative rate, partially based on where manufacturers set the thresholds for that positive/negative result. Peripheral blood-based tests for colon cancer do not detect polyps, and it's the finding and removing of polyps that actually offers the greatest preventive benefit, so that somebody never gets cancer in the first place. "Another word of cautious optimism, I think that I, personally, and many other people active in the space really view these as an addition to standard of care cancer screening and not a replacement." — Dr. John Kisiel Connect with Dr. John Kisiel: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Stacy Andersen: Living to be a Hundred
03/03/2026
Dr. Stacy Andersen: Living to be a Hundred
Some people live more than a hundred years with no health problems and very little cognitive decline. How come? While healthy lifestyles certainly play a part in healthy aging, these “centenarians” share a number of special biological attributes. Furthermore, these attributes, along with attaining an age of 100 or greater, show a strong genetic component. Dr. Stacy Andersen of the Boston University School of Medicine has been studying these centenarians and the factors that are associated with not only their attaining an advanced age, but also doing so with no history of major physical or mental health problems. In her interview, Dr. Andersen discusses what she and her colleagues have discovered about this unusual group of older people. Key Takeaways: Centenarians are people who have reached 100 years of age, while “supercentenarians” are 110 and older. Recent studies of these groups of adults reveal that during their lives, they have “escaped” diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular problems, dementia, and diabetes that cause earlier mortality among adults born at the same time. Dr. Andersen discusses her work on the genetic bases for being an “escaper”, as well as the lifestyle and personality characteristics they have in common. "The older you get, the healthier you’ve been." — Dr. Stacy Andersen Connect with Dr. Stacy Andersen: BUMC Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Kari Nadeau: Microplastics in Our Bodies
02/24/2026
Dr. Kari Nadeau: Microplastics in Our Bodies
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Kari Nadeau discuss the presence and health effects of microplastics in our bodies. Microplastics can enter our bodies through various environmental routes, including food, water, and air. They are in everyone’s bodies to some degree. Microplastics have been linked to health issues like stroke, cancer, and heart attacks. Simple actions like avoiding single-use plastics and processed foods can reduce microplastic levels in the blood by up to 80% in three months. Dr. Nadeau emphasizes the need for further research and consumer awareness to mitigate plastic pollution. Key Takeaways: A microplastic, scientifically, is anything between 1 micron (the size of a red blood cell or an immune cell) to 5 millimeters (the size of a sesame seed). Anything smaller than that is a nanoplastic. Plastics are chemicals. Plastics, as we know them, did not exist before the 1940s. Now we see them in so many places, from healthcare to food to our clothing. In the US, we are getting about a credit card's worth of plastic per week in what we eat. In Indonesia, it is more like a credit card amount per day. The amount varies around the world. "We really need to think about air and water and soil as ways that these plastics can get into our bodies." — Dr. Kari Nadeau Episode References: Environmental Working Group: Jung YS, et al. Characterization and regulation of microplastic pollution for protecting planetary and human health. Environ Pollut. 2022 Dec 15;315:120442. Ward CP, Reddy CM. We need better data about the environmental persistence of plastic goods, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 117 (26) 14618-14621. Ziani K, Ioniță-Mîndrican CB, Mititelu M, Neacșu SM, Negrei C, Moroșan E, Drăgănescu D, Preda OT. Microplastics: A Real Global Threat for Environment and Food Safety: A State of the Art Review. Nutrients. 2023 Jan 25;15(3):617. Leslie, H. A. et al. (2022). Plastic particles in cosmetics and personal care products: A review. Science of the Total Environment, 822, 153406. Connect with Dr. Kari Nadeau: Professional Bio & Studies: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Lise Eliot: Brain Development, Sex, Gender
02/17/2026
Dr. Lise Eliot: Brain Development, Sex, Gender
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Lise Eliot discuss neurosexism and brain differences between males and females. Dr. Eliot explains that historical brain comparisons often aimed to prove women's inferiority, citing examples like weighing cadaver brains. Modern MRI studies show minor structural differences, but still present significant methodological challenges. She highlights that brain plasticity and social experiences shape gender differences, noting that women tend to have more active default mode networks, linked to anxiety and rumination. She emphasizes that gender is a psychological phenomenon, not strictly binary, and that early life experiences significantly influence brain development. Key Takeaways: Sex is a biological phenomenon determined by physical characteristics and some secondary characteristics. Gender is a psychological phenomenon and is not binary - there are multiple dimensions of gender. Without brain plasticity, you would be unable to learn anything. While the brain has more plasticity when you’re young, the brain can continue to learn and form new pathways even in adulthood. Gender is a uniquely human attribute - other animals do not have gender. This is something that humans have invented and reinvented in every culture to adapt our different physical bodies and reproductive roles to a social environment. "I'm really starting to think about gender learning as almost like learning a language. You learn the language, you learn the rules and the symbols of being a boy or being a girl until it's finally internalized, and you reach this moment of gender identity thanks to endless clues in your environment, and this strong drive to find your place and find your identity and social community." — Dr. Lise Eliot Connect with Dr. Lise Eliot: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Books: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Catherine Lebel & Dr. Sam Nivins: Disruptors of Fetal Brain Development
02/10/2026
Dr. Catherine Lebel & Dr. Sam Nivins: Disruptors of Fetal Brain Development
In this episode, Therese Markow, Dr. Catherine Lebel, and Dr. Sam Nivins discuss the impact of prenatal factors on fetal brain development. Catherine explains how MRI can detect subtle brain changes due to prenatal alcohol exposure, even at low levels, and emphasizes the importance of avoiding alcohol during pregnancy. Sam discusses the effects of maternal obesity before pregnancy on brain development, noting sex-specific differences and the importance of early intervention. Both also touch on the impact of stressors, such as natural disasters, and the need for early identification and support for children with potential reading difficulties. Key Takeaways: Even exposing a fetus to one alcoholic drink per week during pregnancy shows a detectable difference in brain structure compared to kids who had no alcohol exposure at all. The same is true of prenatal maternal obesity, even if the obesity is preconceptional. Reading is a skill that must be taught to children. Prereading skills lay the foundation for later reading. And prereading skills can be visualized with brain imaging. When you know what part of the brain is affected, you can better tailor interventions to target those particular consequences. "People who have good support from a partner or other folks in their lives, not only do they tend to do better, but their kids tend to do better too." — Dr. Catherine Lebel Connect with Dr. Lebel and Dr. Nivins Dr. Lebel’s Professional Bio & Publications: Dr. Nivins’ Professional Bio & Publications: Website: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dorothy Roberts: The Mixed Marriage Project - Race
02/03/2026
Dorothy Roberts: The Mixed Marriage Project - Race
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dorothy Roberts discuss her book "The Mixed Marriage Project," which explores her father's unpublished research on mixed marriages in Chicago. Dorothy's father, a white anthropology professor, interviewed over 500 black-white couples from the 1930s to the 1960s. The book blends personal stories, historical insights, and interviews, revealing the challenges and discrimination faced by interracial couples. They also discuss Dorothy’s mother's remarkable journey from Jamaica to Chicago and the impact of her parents' interracial marriage on her life. The book highlights systemic racism and the one-drop rule, emphasizing the need for societal love and equality. Key Takeaways: All black movements can be linked back to the Marcus Garvey Movement, which started in Jamaica. Even within early mixed marriages and organizations for these couples, such as the Manassas Club, there were harmful stereotypes within these groups. To interracial couples, the biggest barrier was the barrier of the black belt that was created by racially restricted covenants and mob violence against black people. "The One-Drop Rule was instituted to support white supremacy, and also it proves that race is not a natural division of human beings. Who is black, who is white, depends entirely on social rules, which might be instituted in law, or they're just part of societal norms and expectations. But they're not biological, they're not natural. They're made up." — Dorothy Roberts Connect with Dorothy Roberts: Professional Bio: Website: Book: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Tami Rowen: Q and A - Women's Health
01/27/2026
Dr. Tami Rowen: Q and A - Women's Health
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Tami Rowen discuss the listener questions that arose from her last episode on Critically Speaking. From drinking soy milk as a substitute for estrogen, the complex relationship between the number of children you have and breast cancer risk, dense breast tissue, early menstruation, hormone replacement therapy, and more. Listen in for the answers to your questions! Key Takeaways: Soy is not in any way a substitute for estrogen. How it affects your circulating estrogens depends on your age. While the number of kids you have is inconclusive regarding its relationship to breast cancer, breastfeeding has been shown in every study to be preventative against breast cancer. The number one killer of women is heart disease. It's not breast cancer. "A period is a bleed in response to ovulation, and that is coming from the level of the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovary, and uterus, so you can have a problem at any of those levels." — Dr. Tami Rowen Episode Reference: Welcome to the Wild West of Testosterone: Connect with Dr. Tami Rowen: Professional Bio: Website: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Haley Hersant: Brain Health Supplements - Do They Work?
01/20/2026
Dr. Haley Hersant: Brain Health Supplements - Do They Work?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Haley Hersant discuss a study by Dr. Hersant and her colleagues that reviewed over 100 brain and memory supplements. They found 18 common ingredients grouped into three categories: those with scientific evidence of benefit, those with no compelling evidence, and those with mixed results. They discuss the results of this study and emphasize the need for more rigorous testing. While not giving medical advice, they caution against potential interactions with prescription medications and advise listeners to do their research as well as talk to their own providers. Key Takeaways: The most common factor across all of these ingredients that had some benefit is that, theoretically, they are known to decrease inflammation and help activate cellular repair pathways. The FDA does not have the authority to approve dietary supplements before they are put on the market, so it primarily regulates them once they are already on the market. This is different from traditional pharmaceuticals. If you are taking supplements, do report them when completing a medical history with your doctor, as they can interact with your prescriptions, vitamins, and other supplements. "For many people, it could be harmless to be taking these supplements. They may be wasting their money without getting much benefit. But health-wise, they may be okay. However, whenever you start mixing a lot of different supplements, or are taking supplements with prescription medications, there are certainly some risks that can come into play." — Dr. Haley Hersant Episode References: Connect with Dr. Haley Hersant: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Adam Morgan: A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls
01/13/2026
Adam Morgan: A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls
In this episode, Therese Markow and Adam Morgan discuss Adam’s new book, A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls, which explores the life and legacy of Margaret C. Anderson. Margaret was a pioneering figure in modern literature, the founder of “The Little Review” in Chicago, and one of the key figures in fostering the Chicago literary renaissance. They talk about the challenges she faced, despite her initial successes, why her physical appearance often overshadowed her contributions, and the impact on young girls today that Margaret also faced during her time. Key Takeaways: “The Little Review” served as a platform for uncensored conversations about literature and art, including experimental works that were often undiscovered during her time. The Comstock Act was a group of federal laws that banned the mailing of “obscene materials” and was upheld, in part, through censorship at what is now the USPS. This resulted in many copies of “The Little Review” being burned or otherwise destroyed before they could arrive at their subscribers. We are seeing the same rhetoric used by conservative lawmakers today that was used in the early 20th century against Margaret Anderson, despite no evidence to support it. They argued that if young girls read “obscene literature,” they would turn to a life of immorality, prostitution, or partner with people not approved of by their parents. "She was not a saint, but there were a lot of things to admire about her courage and her sense of agency." — Adam Morgan Connect with Adam Morgan: Professional Bio: Twitter: Book: Bluesky: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Elizabeth Burch: Pain Brokers: Exploiting Women by Mass Torts
01/06/2026
Elizabeth Burch: Pain Brokers: Exploiting Women by Mass Torts
In this episode, Therese Markow and Elizabeth Burch discuss Elizabeth’s new book, “The Pain Brokers: How Con Men, Call Centers, and Rogue Doctors Fuel America’s Lawsuit Factory,” which exposes a scheme where con artists, attorneys, and rogue doctors exploited women through mass torts involving pelvic mesh implants. Elizabeth explains how mass torts differ from class actions and explains how attorneys earn contingency fees. Throughout the episode, they discuss the ways in which the scheme was perpetuated and how vulnerable women were exploited by a data breach in India. Key Takeaways: A tort is a harm, such as a punch or a car accident. A mass tort is when those harms happen on a large scale. Mass torts can be a goldmine for lawyers (and there is a convention held twice a year regarding mass torts in Las Vegas). This can be concerning as more states are allowing law firms to be owned, even partially, by non-lawyers. Many of the women involved with this mass tort were conned by people who had their specific information, including birth dates, surgery dates, and other medical information. It created a lot of confusion for many. "You can imagine that your scam detector would probably go off if someone called you and asked you for that information. But if someone calls you and they already know your birth date and the name of your implanting doctor and the type of mesh that you have and exactly when you had the surgery and where you had the surgery, then all of a sudden it feels a lot more legitimate." — Elizabeth Burch Connect with Elizabeth Burch: Professional Bio: Website: Bluesky: LinkedIn: Instagram: X: Facebook: Pre-Order The Pain Brokers: How Con Men, Call Centers, and Rogue Doctors Fuel America’s Lawsuit Factory here: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Ambition and Psychopathology
12/30/2025
Ambition and Psychopathology
In this episode, Therese Markow, Dr. Jerald Kay, and Dr. Joel Yager discuss the various forms of ambition: lack of ambition, mismatched ambition, Machiavellian ambition, and how to deal with malignant narcissists. Key Takeaways: There are biological underpinnings to ambition, but much of what we know about ambition is built on repeated interactions as children. Not everyone who is Machiavellian is ambitious. Not everyone ambitious is Machiavellian. But when you have people who have dark triad characteristics, it can mean trouble for those around them. There are levels of narcissism. Only some are treatable. The last division of severe narcissism is called malignant personality disorder and is relatively untreatable. "It’s both nature and nurture. We know ambition runs in families. And we know kids that are adopted into families with ambitious parents turn out to be more ambitious than if they weren’t adopted into those kinds of families." — Dr. Joel Yager Episode References: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Sophie Lucido Johnson: KIN: Families of the Future
12/23/2025
Sophie Lucido Johnson: KIN: Families of the Future
In this episode, Therese Markow and Sophie Lucido Johnson discuss the evolution of family and the concept of "kin" in Sophie’s book "Kin: The Future of Family." They explore the isolation and loneliness in modern society, emphasizing the importance of chosen family networks, or "pods," for emotional and physical well-being. She highlights the benefits of close, non-genetic relationships, citing research showing that strong social connections can prolong life more than health habits. Sophie also addresses the challenges of maintaining friendships post-children and the mutual support needed in kin relationships, drawing parallels to primate behavior and community responses to disasters. Key Takeaways: Digital connective tools are wonderful, but they do not take the place of human connection of conversation, and relationships. You do not have to live with someone to create a family pod together. Living in proximity can help to share the burden and lighten the load. It is good for your mental and physical health to build relationships with those in close proximity to you. Relationships do not need to be transactional. However, by nature, there will be levels of give and take. Commitment is not just for romantic relationships. Planning is difficult. Be spontaneous with short time hangouts, running errands together, and a willingness to commit more deeply with your friends while being flexible. Cross-generational relationships have many benefits for all parties involved. "There's nothing that the science has shown to prolong your life more than relationships with other people." — Sophie Lucido Johnson Connect with Sophie Lucido Johnson: Website: Linktree: Book: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Tami Rowen: Menopause, Mysteries, and Hormones
12/16/2025
Dr. Tami Rowen: Menopause, Mysteries, and Hormones
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Tami Rowen discuss menopause, perimenopause, and hormone therapy. She explains that menopause is defined as one year without a period, while perimenopause can last up to 10 years with symptoms like mood changes and menstrual irregularities. Dr. Rowen discusses the changes in FSH levels and how to understand what the levels mean across time, and why they may not be as helpful as you think. She also explains how hormone therapy can alleviate symptoms and prevent osteoporosis, and that bioidentical hormones are preferred for their safety and efficacy. Finally, she cautions that social media can spread both accurate and misleading information about menopause and hormone therapy. Key Takeaways: There is a debate over whether or not there is a cardiovascular benefit to starting hormone therapy early. While several studies suggest there may be a benefit, all the current guidelines recommend against using hormone therapy specifically for the prevention of heart disease. When somebody enters menopause or post-menopause, there is no significant change in their testosterone levels. However, testosterone will be lower than when someone was in their 20s. The majority of people giving information about menopause are not healthcare providers. Oftentimes, when they are discussing hormone therapy, some of the risks get missed, some of the benefits get overblown, and many are left believing hormone therapy will be a cure-all. "Anytime someone makes a definitive statement, I would take it with a grain of salt and just know that there's oftentimes nuance to recommendations and guidance, and I would encourage all women to seek out a provider that is familiar with the data." — Dr. Tami Rowen Connect with Dr. Tami Rowen: Professional Bio: Website: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Robert Klitzman: Anti-Obesity Drugs - What We Don't Know About Them
12/09/2025
Dr. Robert Klitzman: Anti-Obesity Drugs - What We Don't Know About Them
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Robert Klitzman discuss the implications of new anti-obesity drugs, initially designed for type 2 diabetes but now used for weight loss. These drugs are expensive and may not be fully covered by insurance. They discuss how the drugs work and explain why they may be more effective for some than others. Dr. Klitzman highlights the socio-economic disparity that contributes to some of the causes of obesity. He emphasizes the need for prevention and policy changes to address the root causes of obesity, including dietary habits and access to healthy food. Key Takeaways: The US spends twice as much per person on health care as any other country in the world, yet our health indices are nowhere near the top. A lot of that is because of the price of drugs. Obesity medications are being touted as the end of the obesity pandemic, as a cure-all. However, while they do a lot of good, there are many limitations to the drugs. Obesity is often more prevalent in lower socio-economic classes. With the increased use of these obesity drugs, the disparity between the haves and have-nots will continue to grow, potentially leading to additional stigmas being placed on those struggling with obesity. "I do have concerns that the attention on drugs, if we're going to spend a lot of money on drugs for obesity, my concern is we're not going to spend as much attention on how to prevent obesity in the first place." — Dr. Robert Klitzman Connect with Dr. Robert Klitzman: 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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Dr. Kevin Spencer: Magic Tricks - New Therapy for Autism
12/02/2025
Dr. Kevin Spencer: Magic Tricks - New Therapy for Autism
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Kevin Spencer discuss the innovative use of magic tricks as therapy for children with autism. Kevin found that teaching magic helped children with autism improve social skills, communication, and self-esteem. He developed the Hocus Focus program for schools and the Magic Therapy program for hospitals, both using simple magic tricks with common items. Kevin's research showed significant improvements in social skills and self-esteem using the Social Skills Improvement Scale (SSIS) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). He also successfully adapted his therapy to virtual formats during the pandemic. Key Takeaways: One of the most significant deficits of traditional social skills programs in the schools is that they try to teach social skills explicitly, through this very didactic structure, but none of that is transferred over to a real-world setting. Doug Henning’s formula for magic works well with kids on the spectrum, and really, everyone: The difficult must become habit. Habit becomes beautiful. Beautiful becomes magic. Magic gives kids an avenue to practice social interactions and other social skills that become broadly applicable to other areas of life. In classroom settings, it gives kids a chance to practice both performing and being an audience. Teachers and parents often see the changes before the child does, as the kids are so engaged in the learning and sharing with their friends. There are no expectations that you know how to do magic (unlike other behaviors). It allows for failure to be part of the process, which builds frustration tolerance, persistence, critical thinking, and resilience. "All of the tricks that we teach are done with very ordinary items. It's coins and Q-tips and string and rope and paper clips and rubber bands, because we want them to recognize that the magic is connected to them. It's not connected to a prop." — Dr. Kevin Spencer Episode References: TDF: Connect with Dr. Kevin Spencer: Professional Bio: Facebook: Website: Books: YouTube: Vimeo: LinkedIn: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Instagram: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Tami Rowen: Pregnancy and Tylenol
11/25/2025
Dr. Tami Rowen: Pregnancy and Tylenol
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Tami Rowen discuss the controversy surrounding the use of Tylenol during pregnancy and its potential link to autism. She emphasizes that the evidence is largely anecdotal and not supported by robust scientific studies. Dr. Rowen highlights a study published in Environmental Health in 2025 that found a weak association between Tylenol use and autism, but adds that a subsequent study revealed flaws in the earlier study and showed no association. Fever in pregnant women can have dangerous effects and should be relieved. She stresses that Tylenol is the safest pain reliever and fever reducer for pregnant women, who experience fevers in 20% of pregnancies. Dr. Rowen criticizes the media and some health officials for misrepresenting the risks, potentially leading to harmful decisions by pregnant women. Key Takeaways: Tylenol is the safest option that we have in terms of a fever reducer and pain reliever. Fevers actually have more association with autism than Tylenol does in the research. On the other hand, Ibuprofen and NSAIDs are unsafe in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. "Pregnancy is quite an uncomfortable state of being. We tell pregnant women, and we tell women in general, to tough out a lot of things, but pain is not something that I think is reasonable. I think that it goes against the principle of doing no harm, to tell people they should just suffer with pain when there is actually effective and safe medication for them." — Dr. Tami Rowen Episode References: The Conversation Article: Connect with Dr. Tami Rowen: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Bluesky: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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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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