Wondering what PMDD is after reading the title? You're likely in good company. Although Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affects between 3 and 4 million women in the US, it is still a relatively unknown disorder that is often misdiagnosed.To help us understand what PMDD is and how it impacts women and their families, Marybeth Bohn joins Robin for this important episode. Marybeth's daughter, Christina, battled PMDD for more than a decade before Marybeth helped lead doctors to her diagnos...

The recent episodes of our podcast have explored challenging themes, and today's topic is no exception. Miscarriages touch the lives of many, whether it's a personal experience or through someone we know. Some mothers might not have been aware they were pregnant when it happened, while others felt an instant bond as soon as they saw the positive result on a pregnancy test. Losing a pregnancy is losing a child. Discussions about miscarriages are often cloaked in silence and stigma. Offeri...

A lot has been said about a certain commencement speech…like, a lot a lot. In fact, so much has been said about the content and controversy the speech invoked, we decided to take a more elementary approach and consider what makes a successful commencement address.Using our backgrounds as former college instructors, we apply a robust framework of ten suggestions to evaluate his speech. Our analysis aims to provide a thoughtful perspective on how commencement addresses can resonate with graduat...

Pelvic floor therapy is all the rage these days. But what is it? And why is it so important? Join us for this episode as we discuss the transformative power of pelvic floor therapy with expert Sarah Miller, DPT. In it, Sarah demystifies the critical role pelvic floor health plays in our overall well-being, a topic that remains under-discussed yet is vital for physical and emotional health. Listen in on an enlightening conversation that addresses the sensitive yet essential aspects of pelvic f...

They say it takes a village to raise a child and the role of a grandmother is paramount to that success. Grandmothers offer a special kind of love and support to a grandchild and to the baby’s parents. Their previous parenting experience is often just what new mothers appreciate most (or not)!On today’s episode, Robin makes a special announcement about an upcoming addition to her family. And in support of her new role, friends and family share pearls of wisdom and sage advice for the new gran...

We live in a world of self-help books and self-proclaimed experts advising us on how to find happiness and fulfillment. Additionally, we are often encouraged to follow someone else’s experience to enhance our emotional well-being. But what happens when another’s journey is not in accord with our ideals or goals? Where do we find peace and purpose based on our individual beliefs and purpose? In an article entitled The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden, we are encouraged to silenc...

In times of crisis or as individuals approach life's end, it's often said that doubts about faith and spirituality come to the forefront—even for those who don't consider themselves religious. This phenomenon is sometimes captured in the adage, "There are no atheists in a foxhole."Addressing the needs of those who haven't adopted a religious or spiritual identity involves sensitivity and care. Certain clichés and overused expressions are best left unsaid. Instead, finding the right language t...

In this week's installment of What To Know Before You Go, we explore the complexity of grief. Grief is a universal and intrinsic aspect of what it means to be human. Each experience of grief is deeply individual and intricately linked to the nature of the loss. Some individuals struggle with Anticipatory Grief, a profound sadness that precedes the death of a loved one suffering from a terminal condition. Chronic Sorrow is another facet of grief, often described as 'a normal reaction to a...

Ever considered the unforeseen consequences of putting off estate planning? Let's face it, it's not just about drafting a document – it's about ensuring your legacy thrives and your wishes are honored. Advance care planning extends beyond creating an Advance Directive or discussing our end-of-life wishes. It encompasses crucial legal and financial considerations that play a significant role in ensuring that all of a person's preferences are fully honored.  Discussing finances and assets can...

Of the many roles women undertake in their lifetime, the act of caregiving stands out as one of the most universal and demanding. The Institute on Aging reports that women make up roughly 75% of caregivers and typically dedicate up to 50% more time to caregiving duties compared to their male counterparts. It appears that being a woman—whether you're a daughter, daughter-in-law, distant relative, or simply a friend—often means taking on the responsibilities of caregiving with family and...

The U.S. population is older today than it has ever been. In fact, one-fourth of the total population is 65 or older. Researchers predict a 47 percent increase in this demographic between 2022 and 2050, resulting in 82 million citizens 65+ years old. Approximately 10,000 baby boomers will turn 65 every day for the next few decades. The fact individuals are living longer, divorcing later in life, and choosing to live alone and age in their homes has resulted in a significant caregiver gap....

Today, we delve into the concept of toxic positivity. Recognizing and appreciating the optimistic intentions behind encouraging words from our loved ones is crucial. However, it's just as critical to remember that expressing our emotions authentically, including the painful, fearful ones, should come without the burden of guilt or shame. Toxic positivity is the belief that no matter how difficult or dire a situation is, people should maintain a positive mindset. We’ve all been there…the...

Inspired by the legacy of a mentor and friend, this episode is dedicated to remembering Melody Parry. A year after her untimely death, we honor Melody in this episode by highlighting the upcoming Columbia Women's Faith Conference. Created by Melody, this conference was her way of creating time and space for women to find deeper connections with God and other believers. This episode will unpack the theme for the conference; Breathe: Finding Peace and Purpose in the Presence of God, as well as...

Do you often find yourself struggling to maintain focus or feeling mentally drained? If your answer is yes, then buckle your seatbelt. This episode will take you on a ride your brain and body have been waiting for! Join us as Dr. Janine Stichter, an expert on human behavior, joins us to navigate the mental mazes that lead us toward or away from our peak cognitive potential. Learn how to harness the benefits of sleep, hydration, and nutrition, and incorporate them into even the most hectic...

If you've ever felt like your words were lost in translation, you're not alone. Join us as we unpack the complexities of communication in our latest episode of The Problem with Perfect. From the silent messages we send with our eyes to the unintended signals we give with a sigh, we're diving into the nonverbal cues that make or break our daily interactions. Discover how your communication style holds the key to stronger relationships and how even the smallest gestures can speak volumes. It's...

Navigating the financial landscape at any stage of life can be daunting. While situations may change, the pressures remain the same, as well as the cultural messages that tell us we need to have more to be more.  In this episode, we discover the hidden connection between money and self-worth as we're joined by financial therapist Khara Croswaite Brindle.  We tackle the emotional weight of managing money through evolving life chapters, from the youthful skepticism about the value of...

Every victory, on the field or in life, carries its own story—ours is no exception. As the confetti settles from the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl win, Robin, Denise, and Rachel gather to share the intersection of triumph and trial that marks such monumental moments. But this episode isn't just a toast to sports and celebrities; it's a holistic look at wellness, from the empowering clang of weightlifting plates to the quiet introspection of journaling. We're assessing our fitness journeys...

We spend more time at work than we do anywhere else so it's no surprise that our work greatly influences our self-worth.  In this episode, we bring three generations together to discuss how to embrace self-love and align our work with our personal goals. With a rich tapestry of experiences in journalism, pharmaceutical sales, clinical therapy, and marketing, we've seen firsthand the importance of pursuing a job that encourages growth and resonates with one's values. Whether you're eyeing a...

This month we are focusing on self-love and acceptance at every age, sharing the perspectives of three generations as we explore societal issues that affect each of us in similar and dissimilar ways. For this series, we welcome back Rachel Keller, who offers a millennial viewpoint, while Robin represents the Gen X perspective, and Denise with Boomer’s insight. Our first episode focuses on issues every woman experiences throughout her lifetime -beauty and body image. It turns out that...

Have you ever found yourself smiling at the simplest of pleasures, like the sun breaking through the clouds or the smell of rain on the pavement?  This episode celebrates those moments, called "glimmers" by scientists, that brighten our days and bolster our spirits. In our discussion, we learn about tuning into the subtle yet impactful ways our nervous system responds to glimmers and uncover how they can help lead to a more peaceful and satisfying life. Show Notes: Discovering Your...

Ever felt like the quest for perfection is more of a curse than a blessing, especially when it comes to your career and emotional well-being? Join us as we navigate these treacherous waters, with Nancy Yeager, the entrepreneurial spirit behind two Fleet Feet stores, guiding us through her inspiring transition from a stable job to a fulfilling career aligned with her passions.  Also in this episode, we tackle the cold realities of staying active in winter and discuss the vital importance of...

As we embark on a new year, we often find ourselves asking what it would take for us to fulfill our deep spiritual longings. This episode is your invitation to walk with us and the remarkable Beth Bramstedt as we unwrap the complexities of identity, legacy, and purpose. With Beth's wisdom in spiritual formation and church ministry, we're ushering in an empowering discussion to rekindle the joy and vitality in these essential facets of our lives. In this episode, we recognize that spiritual...

What is it about the New Year that inspires us to focus on every little thing we don’t like about ourselves? Why do we start each year ‘doggedly determined’ to fix every flaw? (In case you didn’t know…doggedly determined is a synonym for the word resolution…as in New Year’s resolution.) Who wants to start another trip around the sun doggedly determined to do anything? Ain’t nobody got time for that! Join us on this episode as we encourage each other to ditch resolutions and make a case for...

As the final embers of 2023 glow softly behind us, we gather around the warmth of shared stories and revelations. This episode is a mosaic of triumphs, trials, and the heartfelt thanks we owe to the souls that touched our lives. We recount the victories, be it the thrill of the Super Bowl, the resilience in the face of illness, or the medical marvels that reshaped destinies. Our narrative invites you to sift through your own year's tapestry, to find the threads of experiences that will weave...

The holiday season is rife with images of perfection, but the reality seldom matches the dream. In this episode, we recognize the pitfalls of chasing a perfect holiday and offer tips for setting realistic expectations - focusing on what truly matters: connection, love, and the spirit of the season. The art of enjoying the holidays isn't found in flawlessness but in embracing each moment as it comes, complete with its imperfections. So come, join us in our quest for a merrier, stress-free...