Rebecca brings thoughtful insights into what’s fueling this polarization, from cognitive dissonance and fear to the breakdown of meaningful communication. Together, we unpack how individual citizens can take small but impactful steps toward bridging the divide, fostering unity, and building a more harmonious society.

We dive into the tough questions: How do we have unifying conversations in such a tense environment? What does it take to truly listen to — and understand — those we may not agree with? And how can we find common ground without compromising our values?

Whether you're politically active or just trying to make sense of the world around you, this episode offers a refreshing, hopeful, and grounded perspective on how we move forward — together.

https://www.rebeccasanin.com/

In this deeply insightful and honest conversation, I sat down with licensed sex therapist Heather Simonson, LCSW, CST, CSE, ERYT, RPYT (Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sexuality Educator, Reiki Master, and Registered Yoga Teacher (specializing in kids and pre/postnatal) to explore some of the most vulnerable and often unspoken challenges couples face around intimacy. We dive into what happens when partners have mismatched libidos, how self-esteem and body image shape our sexual experiences, and why desire often fades after having children.

We also unpack the layers of shame tied to sexuality—especially for women—and the societal conditioning that makes it hard for many to express what they truly want. From infidelity to the importance of safety in asking for what you need, we cover the complex emotional terrain of modern relationships and sexuality.

Whether you're in a long-term relationship, navigating post-baby intimacy, or just curious about how to better understand your own desires, this episode offers real talk, compassionate insights, and practical wisdom.

Heather's contact info:

Do you sometimes feel your child's successes—or failures—reflect directly on you? You're not alone. In this episode, we explore the powerful, often unconscious ways parents project their unresolved issues onto their children. When we see our kids as extensions of ourselves, we may inadvertently make them responsible for our self-worth, tying their achievements to our value and fearing judgment through their choices.

This dynamic can disrupt a child’s developing identity, strain the parent-child bond, and contribute to anxiety, confusion, and even depression—for both parent and child. Together, we'll unpack how these patterns form, how to recognize when you're slipping into them, and how to begin shifting toward a healthier, more supportive relationship with your child. You'll learn how to tell the difference between truly encouraging your child versus subtly projecting your unmet needs onto them.

If you're ready to break the cycle and parent from a place of clarity and compassion, this episode is a powerful first step.

In this episode, we sit down with toy expert Jonathan Alexandratos to explore the profound role that toys play in our lives, far beyond childhood. From self-expression to identity formation, toys are vessels that help us explore parts of ourselves not yet fully realized.

We unpack how the evolution of toy design and accessibility has deepened our connection to play and how these small objects carry big meaning. Whether nostalgic or forward-looking, our relationship with toys reveals more about us than we might expect.

Jonathan Alexandratos is a New York City-based writer, professor, and toy scholar. They were featured in the Emmy-nominated documentary "Billion Dollar Babies: The True Story of the Cabbage Patch Kids" and teach at Queensborough Community College and Sarah Lawrence College.

Order Jonathan's book, "Articulating the Action Figure: Essays on the Toys and Their Messages" on Amazon - https://amzn.to/44zh5Zr

And Jonathan's latest book "Free with Every Kids' Meal: The Cultural Impact of Fast Food Toys" on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3EtK7zb

School refusal has become an epidemic, skyrocketing since COVID and the rise of social media’s influence on children. As licensed clinical social workers working with families facing this challenge, we sit down with special education attorney Susan Deedy, Esq., (https://www.susandeedylaw.com/), to unpack the many reasons kids are avoiding school—and, more importantly, what can be done about it.

In this episode, we provide a roadmap for parents, educators, and therapists, covering both therapeutic approaches and legal rights. What are your child’s rights when it comes to school refusal? What should schools be doing to support students? What steps should parents take to address the issue before legal action is necessary?

Join us as we discuss how collaboration—rather than conflict—between parents, schools, and mental health professionals can help struggling children return to the classroom successfully. Don’t miss this crucial conversation