Ep. 192: The Arc of the Moral Universe Seems Like It's Bending Towards Hell

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In this episode, Hope, Annie and Doug process their reactions to the 2024 US Election results, processing a mix of anger, exhaustion, and disbelief. With Republicans securing power across all three branches, we’re all struggling to find hope. Annie reflects on the jolt of living in her "blue bubble," while Hope wrestles with disgust  over Trump's continued support, particularly from Christian Evangelicals and white women. Coping mechanisms are all over the place—from exercising to keep our anxieties at bay to avoiding political news. Project 2025 and its potential threat to democratic freedoms weighs heavily on our souls. As we look ahead, we encourage listeners to sit in whatever stage of grief  they may be in, and perhaps adopt emergency plans and "doomsday prepper" mindsets as we brace for a politically charged future. Our takeaway: care for yourself and your community, and stay engaged because the 2026 midterms are around the corner, and there’s more work to do.

Ep. 191: Reparations in Action: Building Racial Equity in Tacoma

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In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Jordan, a Black, queer activist with deep ties to Tacoma’s Hilltop community and Laurie Arnold, an educator and longtime social justice advocate focused on racial justice. Together with a cohort of strong women, lead Tacoma Does Reparations, a grassroots initiative dedicated to reparative payments for Black womxn living in Tacoma. This conversation dives into the organization's origins, the scope of their work, and their vision for racial equity. Listeners will hear about the concept of reparations, both broadly and specifically in the context of Tacoma. Laurie and Nicole discuss past reparative efforts as models for the Tacoma initiative, common misconceptions and challenges they’ve faced. Most importantly we explore why reparations are essential to addressing racial wealth disparities. 

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Ep. 190: Intersectional Story-Telling & Why Anger is Healthy with Author Sonora Reyes

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EQ: How do stories that center queer and Latinx identities challenge mainstream narratives in literature, and what role do they play in fostering greater understanding and representation across both young adult and adult genres?

In this episode of IWL, we are joined by author Sonora Reyes. Sonora is most known for their hit YA novels The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School and The Luis Ortega Survival Club. We get personal with Sonora about how their unique identities influence their stories and the importance of staying authentic when representing complex, intersectional characters.

We also talk about how queer and Latinx stories are reshaping mainstream narratives in literature—both in young adult and adult genres. Sonora shares their writing process, from balancing genres to what’s inspiring them right now, and how community plays a center role in their writing. We learn more (and geek out about) their upcoming Adult Romance novel The Broposal.

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Sonora: Self-Care App: Finch

  • Hope/Annie: Please support Sonora’s work by purchasing and sharing their books (support your local bookstores!)

Ep. 189: Wired for Change--Inclusion in the Electrical Trade

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EQ: To what extent are the trades becoming more welcoming and inclusive for anyone who is not white, CIS, male and in what ways are they still woefully retrograde?

Note to listeners: We hope this will be part of a larger series on women in the trades.

In this episode, we discuss the challenges and progress surrounding diversity and inclusion in the trades with Alejandra Alexander, a writer, visual artist, and former electrician. Alejandra shares her personal journey from the trades and explores the systemic barriers faced by women, non-binary, and trans individuals in construction and other skilled trades. We explore  the disconnect between the industry’s stated goals for diversity and the realities on the ground, touching on issues like representation, discrimination, and the small but important cultural shifts that are beginning to take place. Alejandra also offers advice for anyone thinking about joining the trades and what she wishes she had known before getting started. To learn more about Alejandra visit her substack. 

Related Resources:

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Ep. 188: Self Care For Social Change--How Women Are Leading w/ author Tiffany Bluhm

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EQ: How can a balanced  understanding of self-love, self-care, and identity help us navigate societal expectations and live authentically while serving others?

In this episode of IWL, Hope is joined by the inspiring Tiffany Bluhm, a speaker, writer, and author of The Women We’ve Been Waiting For, Prey Tell, and more. Tiffany brings over 15 years of experience in ministry and nonprofit leadership, and her work focuses on the intersection of faith, justice, and personal growth. Together, they explore how a balanced understanding of self-love, self-care, and identity can help us navigate societal expectations, live authentically, and push for meaningful change. Tiffany emphasizes that self-care isn't just about personal well-being—it’s also a vital component of social change and service to others. Tiffany also shares a sneak peek into her latest 40-day devotional, The Women We’ve Been Waiting For, and reflects on how her writing has evolved to meet the current moment of spiritual and social transformation.

  • Grab a copy of Tiffany’s devotional and join other women in reading every day leading up to the election.

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Hope: Get a copy or check out her writing The 5 Practices to Take Back Your Life–can you tell use 1 or 2? Then folks can go to your website to get the rest.

  • Tiffany: Take deep breathes! Sign up for two free chapters of my upcoming book!

Ep. 187: Behind the Plexiglass: What Retail Security Reveals About Us

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EQ: How do theft and loss prevention (security practices) reflect broader societal issues such as economic inequality and access to essential goods and what does this say about us today?

In today’s episode, inspired by a Target observation, Hope and Annie dive into the complex and often frustrating world of theft and loss prevention in retail stores. They explore how the increasing trend of locking up everyday items—ranging from cold medicine and baby formula to crayons and deodorant—reflects broader societal issues such as economic inequality and access to essential goods. The conversation examines what it means for our society when basic necessities are consistently among the most stolen items and the implications of these security measures on both consumers and retail workers. Ultimately, they question what these “security measures”  say about our society today.

Resources Referenced:

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Hope: Notice what’s going on in your neighborhood

  • Annie: Observe how your local store with locked merchandise handles it - like watch how it operates in the context of this conversation. Please share your hot takes and photos on social media and Slack if you’re a member of Channel 253! The first step in understanding this problem is to turn on the lights!

Ep. 186: Pumpkin Spice and Bookish Advice w/ Sweetpea Flaherty

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EQ: Which books should be on your fall reading list this year, and how do they reflect and respond to today's societal and current events?

Get ready to spice up your fall reading list with the one and only Sweetpea Flaherty from King’s Books in Tacoma! We’re talking seasonal book cravings, why non-fiction suddenly gets so popular, and the must-read sci-fi and speculative fiction that’s heating up the shelves. Plus, Sweetpea spills the tea (or should we say pumpkin spice latte?) on debut authors, hidden gems, and the best cookbooks and gift sets to grab this season. We’ll also chat about creating the coziest autumn reading nook and why it’s time to decolonize that bookshelf. Join us for laughs, book talk, and a few tips on getting seriously cozy this fall!

Poetry Recs:

  • Latino Poetry: The Library of America Anthology, Rigoberto González

  • Forest of Noise, Mosab Abu Toha

  • Blues in Stereo: The Early Works of Langston Hughes, Langston Hughes

  • What Remains: The Collected Poems of Hannah Arendt, Hannah Arendt

Food & Drink Recs:

  • Good Lookin' Cookin' : A Year of Meals - A Lifetime of Family, Friends, and Food, Dolly Parton, Rachel Parton George

  • Modern Navajo Kitchen : Homestyle Recipes that Celebrate the Flavors and Traditions of the Diné, Alana Yazzie

  • Wild Chocolate : Across the Americas in Search of Cacao's Soul, Rowan Jacobsen

  • Our South : Black Food Through My Lens, Ashleigh Shanti

Memoir/Biography Recs:

  • Survival Is a Promise : The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde, Alexis Pauline Gumbs

  • Thousand Threads : A Memoir, Neneh Cherry

Nonfiction Recs:

  • Turning to Stone : Discovering the Subtle Wisdom of Rocks, Marcia Bjornerud

  • Erasing History : How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future, Jason Stanley

  • Message, Ta-Nehisi Coates

  • Black Utopians : Searching for Paradise and the Promised Land in America, Aaron Robertson

  • Last Stand of the Raven Clan : A Story of Imperial Ambition, Native Resistance and How the Tlingit-Russian War Shaped a Continent, Gerald Easter, Mara Vorhees

  • Resist : How a Century of Young Black Activists Shaped America, Rita Omokha

  • Serviceberry : Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World, Robin Wall Kimmerer

Fiction Recs:

  • She Who Knows, Nnedi Okorafor

  • Absolution, Jeff VanderMeer

  • Mighty Red, Lousie Erdrich

  • Model Home, Rivers Solomon

  • Jamaica Ginger and Other Concoctions, Nalo Hopkinson

  • City and Its Uncertain Walls, Haruki Murakami

Great Gifts:

  • Visualizing Palestine : A Chronicle of Colonialism and the Struggle for Liberation, Jessica Anderson, Aline Batarseh

  • On Freedom, Timothy Snyder

  • Modern Magic : Stories, Rituals, and Spells for Contemporary Witches,  Michelle Tea

  • Korean Feminist Artists : Confront and Deconstruct, Kim Hong-hee, Kim Hyesoon

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Annie: Perpetual advice: support your local bookstore. If you don’t have one, support King’s Books via online orders on their website, kingsbookstore.com

    • If you’re a busy reader and haven’t yet, consider starting  your own book list with a rating system. I’ve found that it helps me not only track the books I’ve read, but also making better recommendations for others. 

  • Hope: Another call to decolonize your bookshelf–just pick 1 outside your comfort zone.

  • Sweetpea: jump into a world you know nothing about!

Ep. 185: How to Talk to Unhinged People & Not Lose Your Own Mind in the Process

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Get ready for a lively and insightful episode with Doug, Annie, and Hope as they dive into the tricky waters of talking politics with conservative relatives, friends, and colleagues. Ever felt nervous or awkward about these conversations? You're not alone! We’re here to help you navigate these discussions with respect, understanding, and maybe even a bit of humor.

We’ll cover everything from setting healthy boundaries and respecting yourself, to finding common ground and keeping relationships positive despite differences. Discover fun and effective strategies for turning heated debates into learning sessions, and learn how to gently address misinformation without sparking World War III at the dinner table.

Whether it’s asking the right questions, focusing on shared human experiences, or knowing when to walk away, this episode is packed with practical tips and personal stories. Grab a cup of coffee (or something stronger), and join us for a candid and entertaining chat about making those political conversations a little less daunting.

Chat GPT Confirms This Discussion:

  1. Set Clear Intentions/Boundaries

  2. Active Listening

  3. Stay Calm and Respectful:

  4. Find Common Ground

  5. Ask Questions

  6. Share Personal Stories

  7. Avoid Personal Attacks

  8. Offer Credible Sources/Information

  9. Agree to Disagree

  10. Know When to Walk Away

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Annie: Let go of your guilt over “not doing enough.”

  • Doug: Show vulnerability (don’t open yourself up for attack)

  • Hope: White people–do the work; stop expecting people of color to save us

Ep. 184: Hot & Steamy Summer Reads w/ Sweetpea Flaherty

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EQ: How do the themes of summer and romance intertwine to create compelling stories, and what makes these books perfect for the season?

In this episode, we explore the enchanting blend of summer and romance in literature with Sweetpea Flaherty, the owner of King's Books in Tacoma. Sweetpea, a veteran bookseller since 2000 and recipient of the 2019 Stella Cameron Bookseller of the Year Award, shares insights on how these themes create perfect seasonal reads. We delve into changes in publishing over the last five years, highlighting increased representation. Sweetpea also discusses "Rules for Readers," emphasizing the importance of enjoying your reading journey, whether that means not finishing unenjoyable books or reading non-linearly. Tune in for an engaging conversation on summer romance novels and practical reading tips. Visit kingsbookstore.com for more information.

Recommended Titles:

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Annie: Bright Falls Series by Ashley Herring Blake - queer female romance, clever and funny, quick and easy reads with relatable, well-developed, and lovable characters. All stories center around the same small Oregon town and it’s got the You-Can-Go-Home-Again trope written all over it. Most anticipated LGBTQ Romances of 2024 

  • Hope: Try a new book this summer–push yourself out of your reading comfort zone

  • Sweet Pea: Considering what is happening in the world, seek out and read trans authors in every genre! sweetpea@kingsbooks.com; books@kingsbooks.com

Ep 183: Pickles & Precedents

Note to Listeners: we recorded BEFORE the immunity ruling so we do not discuss this. Thanks for understanding.

EQ: What are the most significant recent SCOTUS rulings, what immediate impact do they have on everyday Americans, and how might they influence upcoming elections?

In this unique and engaging episode, we combine an analysis of recent Supreme Court rulings with a fun and flavorful pickle tasting experience. We delve into 6 rulings we think are especially important,  analyzing their significance through several critical questions. We explore the broader implications of these rulings for civil rights and liberties in the United States.The episode emphasizes the importance of citizens staying informed and engaged with the implications of these rulings. As we discussed each ruling, we tasted the corresponding pickle-flavored item, sharing our reactions and ratings.

Ep. 182: Summer Sizzle: Books, Beats, and Beach Politics

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EQ: What’s cooking this summer and how can we make the most of it?

Get ready for a sizzling summer with this silly episode. We're diving into fun in the sun, cold drinks, self-care, and social justice. From reading the latest books and curating your summer soundtrack to anticipating blockbuster movies and discussing summer fashion trends, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we'll share our thoughts on the political landscape ahead of the presidential election. Set a summer goal, support your local libraries, and join us for an unforgettable summer of enjoyment and empowerment!

Resources to Check:

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Annie: make a summer goal for yourself, either to have more adventures outside, get involved in a political cause, or drink more water. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy, just give yourself something to look forward to and something you’ll be proud of yourself for accomplishing. 

  • Hope: to piggy back off that–if you’re someone who plans a million things for your kids or cats, do something for yourself as well.

Ep. 181: The Power of Racial Healing w/ Tovi Scruggs-Hussein

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Essential Question: How can prioritizing racial healing contribute to the effectiveness of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives?

Guest:  Tovi Scruggs-Hussein, former guest on the podcast–summer of 2020 (Ep 77) when we discussed racial healing as a crucial component of achieving equity in schools and communities.

In this episode, we delve into the work and philosophy of Tieces, a transformative figure in mindfulness and social healing. For those unfamiliar with Tieces, their work focuses on fostering healing-centered and trauma-responsive leadership, with a particular emphasis on equity, inclusion, and belonging. Tieces’ tailored meditations and insightful writings have resonated deeply across diverse audiences, addressing both personal and collective healing.

Tieces’ work reaches a broad audience but is particularly impactful for individuals and leaders committed to social justice and personal transformation. While some of their writing addresses white people, offering pathways to greater awareness and allyship, their overall approach is inclusive and geared toward anyone seeking deeper understanding and healing.

Join us as we explore these profound insights and practical strategies for fostering healing and dynamic leadership in today's complex world.

Resources Mentioned:

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Ep. 180: Read Less Basic--Nice White Ladies Abroad

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Our ongoing discussion revolves around Jessie Daniels' impactful book, "Nice White Ladies," published last spring. We previously interviewed Jessie Daniels in Ep 165 in November and featured in Ep 176: Read Less Basic Book Club with Annie Jansen, Chrisstina McDade, and Marco Manuel in April.

Given the richness of this book, we’ve brought in some incredible guests and longtime listeners to further challenge and expand our thinking, particularly weaving in perspectives as international teachers living outside of the West.. Joining us today is Crissy Calera, Christine Bates, and Adi Anicole.

Ep. 179: Holding On For Dear Life--Mental Health Amidst Global Turmoil

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EQ: How do we acknowledge and protect our mental health in a time of turmoil at home and abroad?

In this episode, we dive into the pressing issue of mental health during times of domestic and international unrest. We'll discuss the latest developments in college campus protests, explore the intersection of mental health and workplace environments, and highlight the importance of Mental Health Month. We also provide practical advice and share resources for maintaining mental well-being.

Sources Referenced:

Do Your Fudging Homework:

  • Hope: if you need to build empathy–read some fiction! Darius the Great Is Not Okay, Adib Khorram;  Challenger Deep Neal Schusterman (teen onset schizophrenia); 15 YA Novels

  • Annie: Al Jazeera for protest news; listen to “Hind’s Hall”

Ep. 178: Democracy's Flame: Student Protests Ignite Discourse on Gaza

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Note to Listeners: Things have already changed since we recorded on Sunday!

EQ: To what extent are the student-led protests on college campuses igniting urgent discourse on the ongoing genocide in Gaza?

This podcast explores the student-led protests on college campuses in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, focusing on their demands, reactions from university administrations, police responses, historical context of student activism, and the impact on campus dialogue. Throughout the discussion, the podcast examines the role of academic freedoms, the support from professors, contradictions within the protests, and the potential impact on campus dialogue and divestment decisions.

Resources to Explore:

Champagne & Real Pain:

🥂Evergreen–I want to see more universities responding like this

🥂Motaz–citizen journalist; Renowned photojournalist

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Ep. 177: Raising Little Justice Leaders One Step At A Time

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In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Shelby Kretz, founder Little Justice Leaders, a platform dedicated to teaching elementary-aged children about social justice in an empowering and age-appropriate way. This organization stands as a beacon of empowerment and education. Through their subscription boxes and resources, Little Justice Leaders tackles complex issues with a sensitivity that is both inclusive and intentional. By emphasizing intersectionality and diversity, they not only educate but also inspire young activists. Furthermore, their collaboration with like-minded organizations and individuals amplifies their impact, showcasing the power of collective action in the fight for social justice. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing activism from a young age and the role each of us can play in creating a more just and equitable world.

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Ep. 176: Read Less Basic Book Club --Nice White Ladies

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In this episode of #readlessbasic, we dissect "Nice White Ladies" by Jessie Daniels, a book challenging the complicity of privileged white women in perpetuating systemic racism. We interviewed Jessie Daniels back in Oct. 

Roundtable guests:

  • Annie Jansen is a former teacher and current apprentice electrician.

  • Christina McDade, school counselor and former guest the Nerdfarm Podcast Ep. 90 “On Representation & Making Space for Black Women in the Workplace” 

  • Marco Manuel–MS history teacher.

We start by examining the book's provocative opening line and share our initial reactions. Despite not all being the target audience, we reflect on how this influences our engagement with the text. Each of us highlights two significant ideas or passages and discusses how our perspectives have evolved. We explore actionable steps proposed by Daniels for white women to become genuine allies in the fight against racism. We debate whether we'd recommend the book and where it stands among other race/antiracism literature like "Caste" and "Stamped." Join us as we navigate the complexities of privilege, allyship, and social change.

Ep. 175: GOP Drama and Trad Wife Trauma

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EQ:  How does the "trad wife" phenomenon intersect with political discourse, particularly within the GOP, and what implications does it hold for the state of the union and broader societal dynamics?

In this episode, we're diving into the wild world of political discourse, particularly focusing on the "trad wife" phenomenon and how it's playing out within the GOP. We're unpacking Senator Katie Britt's recent State of the Union response, where she stirred up quite a bit of controversy with her traditionalist views.

From Britt's performance to the reactions it sparked, we're exploring the ins and outs of how gender norms and political messaging intersect. Plus, we're taking a closer look at the broader societal implications of embracing these traditional ideals in modern politics.

Related Links:

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Ep 174: Let Trad Wives Explain How Feminism Tricked You!

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EQ: What role does the 'trad wife' concept play in modern society, and how does it intersect with traditional gender roles, feminism, and individual agency?

All the IWLs return for a passionate and riveting conversation about a recent trend on Tiktok–the trad wife movement. In this podcast, we delve into the intriguing and controversial world of "trad wives" and domestic care tasks. We first question the notion of whether domestic care tasks are considered sexy and explore the various layers of controversy surrounding the term "trad wife." We dissect the difference between a homesteader and a trad wife and examine why the trad wife phenomenon has gained traction in 2024. Delving into online discourse, we encounter different perspectives, from the anti-feminist stance to the progressive feminist SAHM/SAHW response contingent. We also address the racial dynamics and financial implications associated with being a trad wife. Finally, we ponder whether the concept of trad wives is merely a mutually agreeable kink or a concerning trend of weaponized incompetence. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of modern-day domesticity and societal expectations.

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Ep. 173: Perspectives From An American Librarian Abroad

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EQ: How can school libraries effectively promote diverse representation, particularly of Black voices and histories, fostering greater social awareness and inclusivity?

In today’s episode we are joined by teacher-librarian Osa Oyegun, the whole school librarian (PS-12) at the American International School of Abuja, Nigeria. We discuss the power of representation in literature, the attack on books and libraries in the US, and ways to grow partnerships between the library and the community. Not to mention, we all throw a few book recommendations your way! Check out her curated list of Anti-Bias and Anti-Racist Resources.
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