Afleveringen
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Reality TV is entertaining, but at what cost? In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive deep into The Ultimatum: Queer Love, exploring how reality TV manipulates emotions, exploits trauma, and raises serious ethical concerns. They discuss the psychology behind our obsession with reality TV, the impact on mental health, and why binge-watching these shows can leave us feeling complicit in the drama. From Love Is Blind to The Real World, they examine how reality TV has evolved and whether it can ever be ethical.
The Ultimatum: Queer Love – What made it so intense?How reality TV manipulates emotions to keep us watchingThe psychology of reality TV: Why do we love watching drama unfold?Reality TV and mental health: The emotional toll on viewers and participantsThe ethics of reality TV: Consent, exploitation, and manufactured dramaParasocial relationships and why we feel connected to reality starsThe impact of editing: How producers control the narrativeThe evolution of reality TV: From The Real World to Love Is BlindReality TV and capitalism: Turning human experiences into profitCan reality TV ever be ethical? How it could be done differently
Discussed in This Episode:Reality TV isn’t just mindless entertainment—it reflects deeper cultural values and ethical dilemmas. Whether we love it or question it, we need to be more conscious of what we consume and why.
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In this episode, we explore the challenges of staying engaged in activism without burning out. We discuss the emotional toll of activism, the importance of balancing activism and self-care, and how to navigate political exhaustion while maintaining momentum. We also unpack the role of joy in activism, strategies for self-preservation in social justice work, and why finding community in political resistance is essential. If you’ve been struggling with activist energy management, political fatigue, or feeling overwhelmed by the news cycle, this conversation offers tangible ways to stay hopeful and engaged.
Discussed in This Episode:
How to stay engaged without burning out in activismStrategies for managing activist burnout and avoiding burnout as a changemakerThe emotional toll of activism and how to handle itWhy resisting white supremacist urgency culture is essential for sustained activismThe role of joy in activism and how to stay hopeful in a chaotic worldNavigating political exhaustion and self-preservation in social justice workHow to find community in political resistance and why it mattersMental health and activism: managing activist energy and avoiding despairResources Mentioned:
IndivisibleWorking Families Party“How to Keep House While Drowning” by KC Davis -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive deep into how the fragile male ego shapes business, politics, and social structures. From toxic masculinity in business to the role of male fragility in politics, they explore how gender and power dynamics reinforce exploitation, scarcity, and entitlement. They also discuss the myth of ethical billionaires, how capitalism thrives on scarcity, and why feminist entrepreneurship offers a better path forward.
Discussed in This Episode:
How the fragile male ego shows up in business and leadershipToxic masculinity in business and how it impacts decision-makingWhy billionaires and exploitation go hand in handCan you be an ethical billionaire? The real cost of extreme wealthMale fragility in politics and its consequences on policy and societyHow capitalism thrives on scarcity and fuels individualismThe entitlement of white men and why white women uphold patriarchyFeminist entrepreneurship as a model for ethical business practicesHow to challenge male fragility and create meaningful changeThe dangers of hyper-individualism vs. the power of collective thinkingResource Mentioned:
No, You’re Not Entitled to Your Opinion by Patrick Stokes -
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown are joined by Dra. Nicole Cabrera-Salazar, a former astrophysicist turned social impact consultant, to discuss the challenges women of color face in STEM, the problem with DEI in science, and the complexities of leaving academia for activism. Dra. Cabrera-Salazar shares her experience as a Latina scientist navigating systemic barriers, her transition from astrophysics to social justice work, and why marginalized communities drive innovation.
The conversation explores perfectionism, self-sabotage as self-protection, and the radical act of asking for help in leadership. They also dive into how fear and confusion are used to control progress, why academia needs more diversity, and how resisting capitalist norms in business can lead to meaningful change.
The intersection of science and social justice and why it mattersBreaking barriers in STEM as a Latina and the reality of DEI in scienceHow trauma shapes leadership and overcoming perfectionism as a leaderWhy asking for help is radical and the importance of community in businessThe truth about pre-compliance in activism and how fear is used for controlResisting capitalist norms in business and why science needs diversityThe role of marginalized communities in driving innovation
Discussed in This EpisodeResources Mentioned
Movement Consulting with Dra. Nicole Cabrera-SalazarDra. Nicole Cabrera-Salazar on Instagram“Don’t Believe Him” by Ezra Klein“On Tyranny” by Timothy Snyder -
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive into the emotional and political turmoil of the current moment, discussing RFK Jr.'s appointment, Project 2025, and the SAVE Act's potential impact on voter suppression. They explore the balance between political despair and activism, the importance of self-care as resistance, and how communities can organize in the face of systemic attacks. With a focus on economic activism—including the upcoming February 28th no-spend protest—they discuss ways to resist burnout while staying engaged. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone.
Discussed in this episode:
The emotional toll of political anxiety and how to manage itRFK Jr.'s appointment to Health and Human Services and why it’s concerningProject 2025 and its potential impactThe SAVE Act and how it could suppress voter rightsTitle IX rollbacks and the future of women’s rightsHow to fight political burnout and stay engagedThe role of self-care as political resistanceHow mutual aid and community support can help in times of uncertaintyThe February 28th no-spend day protest and how to participateThe importance of economic activism as a form of resistanceIf you’re looking for ways to navigate the current political landscape without feeling paralyzed, this episode is for you. Tune in and join the conversation.
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What’s a hall pass, and who would be on yours? In this episode, Becky and Taina dive into the fun (and slightly messy) world of celebrity crushes and the famous faces that make their lists. From Paul Rudd’s dad bod appeal to Charlize Theron’s effortless elegance, and even the surprise pick of Jeff Goldblum, they unpack the psychology of attraction, the cultural fascination with hall passes, and whether they’re just harmless fun or something more. Plus, do we really have a type, or is attraction totally random? Let’s get into it!
Discussed in This Episode:
What is a hall pass in a relationship?Our ultimate celebrity crush picks (and why we chose them)Paul Rudd, Robert Downey Jr., and Jeff Goldblum – crush-worthy or not?The allure of Charlize Theron and Emma StoneThe hottest male and female celebrities we’d put on our listsThe psychology behind attraction—do we actually have a type?Is a hall pass considered cheating, or is it just harmless fun?Why we love funny, confident, and slightly rebellious peopleOur audience’s favorite celebrity crushes (send us yours!)
💬 Who’s on YOUR hall pass list? Let us know!
📧 Email us at messyliberation@gmail.com with the subject line Hall Pass.
💬 Comment on YouTube to share your picks! -
Grief isn’t just about losing a loved one—it’s also about losing a sense of security, hope, or the future we envisioned. In this episode, we explore collective grief, political trauma, and how to navigate grief in uncertain times. Whether you're dealing with election grief, managing stress and burnout, or struggling with systemic trauma, we share practical strategies for self-care during political turmoil, coping with overwhelming news, and finding comfort when the world feels heavy.
We’ll also discuss how grief manifests in the body, somatic healing techniques, and the surprising connection between burnout and grief. If you’ve been wondering how to survive grief in tough times and keep going despite everything, this episode is for you.
Processing political and social grief and why it’s more than just about deathHow political changes impact mental health and everyday lifeThe relationship between burnout and grief (and how to manage both)How to navigate grief in difficult times without shutting downSelf-care strategies for dealing with election grief and political overwhelmSomatic healing and grief: How our bodies hold onto stress and traumaHow to find comfort during uncertain times and create safe spaces for healing
Discussed in this episode:Resources mentioned:
“Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle” by Emily & Amelia NagoskiSmashingPatriarchy.com - feminist merchTaskmaster on BBCFollow Becky on BlueSkyFollow Taina on BlueSkyTaina’s post about the Lunar New Year -
In this episode of Messy Liberation, hosts Taina Brown and Becky Mollenkamp welcome guest Marina Daldalian, a software product manager, health coach, and passionate advocate for fat liberation and mutual aid. Marina shares her journey into mutual aid, including how it intersects with fat liberation, and explores the power of direct giving over traditional charity models. The conversation delves into how systemic inequities in capitalism and healthcare impact marginalized communities, the principles of Health at Every Size, and the importance of ethical health coaching. Marina also reflects on COVID realism, its connection to disability, and her approach to community care that centers values of equity, mutual aid, and intersectional feminism.
Marina's Website
What mutual aid is and why it mattersThe intersection of fat liberation and mutual aidDirect giving vs. charitable donations: What's the difference?How mutual aid circles work and amplify impactThe challenges and rewards of setting boundaries in mutual aidHealth at Every Size and its principlesEthical health coaching and navigating systemic barriers to healthCOVID realism and its connection to chronic illness and disabilityHow systemic oppression shapes access to healthcareChoosing belief, compassion, and community care
Discussed in This Episode:Resources Mentioned:
Marina DalDalianAssociation for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH)Angel Austin of Sacred Space for Fat BodiesEpisode 27 of Messy Liberation: "Beyond Charity"You Need a Budget (YNAB)Marquisele (Mikey) MercedesLindo Bacon Accountability controversy -
Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown discuss what’s bringing them joy amidst the chaos of 2025. The duo explores topics ranging from the emotional weight of MLK Day coinciding with the inauguration of a second Trump presidency to personal tools for finding balance, like Becky’s “sexy-ass spreadsheet.” They also dive into the cultural phenomenon surrounding Red Note, the platform rising from TikTok's potential ban, and their favorite media that brings light to dark times. This episode offers equal parts levity, resilience, and actionable inspiration to navigate a complex world.
MLK Day Reflections: The emotional complexities of celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy during a politically charged inauguration.Protecting Peace: Balancing self-care and civic engagement during tumultuous times.Red Note vs. TikTok Ban: The political and cultural implications of shifting platforms, including the risks and ironies involved.Finding Joy: Becky’s 100-rejections challenge and how her spreadsheet is helping her stay organized and motivated.TV and Media Highlights: Shows that brought joy, including Shrinking, Ghosts, and Survival of the Thickest, contrasted with critiques of shows written by men about women.Book Recommendations: Becky’s delight with Frozen River by Ariel Lawton, a surprising find focusing on women’s resilience and justice.Joyful Acts of Service: Stories of grassroots aid efforts, like replacing wedding dresses for brides impacted by California fires.Upcoming Guests: A sneak peek at the podcast’s first guest, Marina, discussing mutual aid and health equity.
Discussed in This EpisodeResources Mentioned
”Frozen River” by Ariel Lawton“Miss Benson's Beetle” by Rachel JoyceShrinking (Apple TV)Ghosts (CBS)Survival of the Thickest (Netflix)Kelly Mosser’s initiative to replace wedding dresses for fire victimsEmail Becky and Taina at messyliberation@gmail.com
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In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive deep into current events and societal issues that intersect with politics, education, and media literacy. Starting with Trump’s shocking comments about taking over Greenland, they explore the deeper implications of colonialism, geopolitics, and the myths surrounding the American Dream. They also tackle the growing distrust in mainstream media, the controversy over Meta dropping fact-checking, and how critical media literacy is vital for the next generation.
Through their discussion, Becky and Taina share insights into why Denmark is consistently rated one of the happiest countries in the world and what the U.S. could learn from its policies. From Canada’s hypothetical 51st state status to TikTok’s role in modern journalism, this episode offers a mix of humor, hard truths, and actionable advice for navigating today’s media landscape.
Discussed in This Episode
Trump’s Greenland comments and their colonial undertonesWhy Greenland and Canada are geopolitically strategicThe legacy of colonialism and its modern manifestationsWhy Denmark is happier than the U.S. (hint: universal healthcare and equality!)Socialism vs capitalism: A global perspectiveThe myths of the American Dream and how they perpetuate inequalityMeta’s decision to drop fact-checking: Opportunity or disaster?Media conglomerates and their impact on democracyTikTok’s role in journalism and citizen journalism explainedWhy critical thinking and media literacy need to be taught in schoolsThe flaws in the U.S. education system and how it impacts future generationsFreedom of speech and the fourth estate: Why the media mattersResources Mentioned
National Association for Media Literacy EducationUnder the Desk News on Tiktok1984 by George OrwellFahrenheit 451 by Ray BradburyTo book a coffee chat with Becky or Taina, email messyliberation@gmail.com -
Becky and Taina dive into the reality that everything is political. From the "boy mom" TikTok trend to the everyday choices we make as parents and consumers, they unpack the systemic forces that shape our lives and decisions. Together, they explore how privilege influences parenting, the ethics behind makeup and toys, and why small, intentional changes can create ripples of systemic change. This conversation challenges listeners to see the political implications of even the most mundane decisions and take actionable steps toward building a more equitable world.
What "everything is political" really meansThe "boy mom" TikTok trend and normalized violence in toysWhite privilege and its influence on parenting decisionsHow systemic racism shapes the way children of different races are raisedGender norms in parenting and the erasure of non-binary identitiesEthical consumerism and the politics of makeup and toysThe challenges of parenting within systemic oppressionStrategies for raising socially conscious kidsSmall, daily political choices that contribute to systemic changeThe intersection of parenting and politics and its impact on society
Discussed in This EpisodeResource Mentioned
Cheekbone Beauty -
In this episode, Becky and Taina reflect on the challenges and lessons of 2024, offering insights into resilience, community, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of learning from failure, navigating systemic issues, and embracing joy and self-care amidst chaos. Whether you're looking for practical business lessons, inspiration for 2025, or simply some thoughtful conversation, this episode has something for you.
Discussed in This Episode
Resilience in hard times and overcoming anxiety in challenging yearsLessons from 2024: personal, business, and community insightsThe value of interdependence and community support during a crisisJoyful living in 2025 and setting intentional goalsNavigating a “shit show” year with grace and strengthPrioritizing self-care in chaos and cultivating belief in oneselfMoving toward collective liberation and rejecting toxic capitalismResources Mentioned
Savage Inequalities by Jonathan KozolErica Courdae on interdependence“Rethinking Social Media: Balancing the Attention Economy with Entrepreneurial Success” episode of Messy Liberation -
In this episode, Becky and Taina dive into the world of children’s movies and TV shows that offer more than just fluff. From revisiting nostalgic favorites to exploring newer releases, they discuss how these stories tackle complex themes like grief, emotions, family dynamics, and representation. Whether you're looking for media to watch with your kids or hoping to heal your inner child, this conversation is packed with insights into the deeper layers of children's programming and its impact on adults and kids alike.
Avatar: The Last Airbender: Exploring its complex storytelling, themes of war, and whitewashing controversies.Where the Wild Things Are: A heartfelt movie review and its emotional resonance, especially for those dealing with grief or feelings of being misunderstood.Inside Out and Inside Out 2: Teaching kids (and adults) about emotional intelligence and understanding anxiety.Turning Red: Celebrating mother-daughter relationships and a refreshing absence of romantic subplots in animated films.Moana: Themes of female empowerment, righteous rage, and reclaiming personal identity.Soul: Pixar’s unique take on addressing grief and the meaning of life in a kid-friendly way.A Little Princess: A nostalgic favorite with an analysis of its themes of loss, resilience, and family.Magic School Bus: Making science fun and accessible for kids through immersive storytelling.The importance of diverse representation in children's media and the cultural impact of better storytelling.How children’s media can aid in healing the inner child in adults.
Discussed in This Episode:Resources Mentioned:
“Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak“A Little Princess” by Frances Hodgson BurnettFeelings WheelCall to Action:
What’s your favorite children’s movie or show that tackles big themes? Did we miss one of your go-to recommendations? Email us at MessyLiberation@gmail.com.Enjoy the conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review!
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In this episode of Messy Liberation, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive deep into the complexities of the US healthcare system, sharing their personal experiences with chronic illness, denied insurance claims, and the frustrations of navigating healthcare in America. They also discuss the Luigi Mangione case and its implications for healthcare reform and inequality. With honesty and wit, Becky and Taina explore what it means to fight for health equity while balancing the personal and political challenges of living with disability.
From sharing practical tips like refusing unnecessary weigh-ins at the doctor to reflecting on the intersectionality of healthcare access, this hodgepodge episode is as informative as it is engaging. Tune in to hear how they bring their unique perspectives to a conversation that impacts us all.
The struggles of living with chronic illness in the US healthcare systemWhy you can and should refuse unnecessary weigh-ins at the doctorLuigi Mangione, the UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting, and healthcare reform politicsIntersectionality and disability: The shared vulnerabilities we all faceThe impact of denied insurance claims and inaccessible careChronic pain experiences and the emotional toll of healthcare discriminationThe importance of reclaiming agency in healthcare and firing bad providersWhat may come next for Messy Liberation in 2025
Discussed in This Episode
“On Tyranny” by Timothy SnyderFeminist Instagram account by Blair ImaniBRB Crying podcastPod Save America podcastYou Made it Weird podcastFamily Trips with the Meyers Brothers podcastLonely Island and Seth Meyers podcast
Resources Mentioned -
In this episode of Messy Liberation, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dig deep into the complicated and often problematic world of philanthropy and charitable giving. From the systemic failures that make nonprofits necessary to the capitalist underpinnings of modern-day charity, this conversation unpacks why "giving back" often does more to maintain inequities than address them. Becky and Taina also explore alternative approaches like wealth redistribution and mutual aid, offering actionable insights for listeners who want to create real social impact.
Discussed in This Episode
The problematic roots of charitable giving and white saviorismNonprofit sector challenges, including financial transparency and CEO pay disparityPhilanthropy’s role in perpetuating systemic inequalityWealth redistribution vs. traditional charity modelsThe power of mutual aid and direct giving as alternativesThe role of privilege in charitable giving and wealth redistributionThe impact of nonprofits on marginalized communitiesShifting from scarcity thinking to abundance thinkingHow the philanthropic sector mirrors capitalist structuresMoving toward liberatory approaches to community careResources Mentioned
Charity NavigatorBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer“The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World" by Robin Wall KimmererTrans Justice MO
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In this episode of Messy Liberation, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown discuss the complexities of balancing business growth and personal well-being in the digital age. They dive into strategies for embracing digital minimalism, reflecting on how social media impacts mental health, energy, and productivity. Becky shares her journey toward reducing her digital footprint, including her move to BlueSky and creating a nine-grid on Instagram, while Taina reflects on her relationship with social platforms. This candid conversation is filled with practical insights, personal anecdotes, and recommendations for anyone seeking to rethink their digital presence.
Becky's digital detox journeyWhat is a nine-grid on Instagram?Exploring BlueSky as a Twitter alternativeThe emotional and energy costs of social mediaPractical steps to audit your digital presenceHallmark holiday movies as escapismBalancing entrepreneurship and visibility without social mediaHow social media shapes parasocial relationshipsDigital minimalism for business owners
Discussed in This Episode:Resources Mentioned:
”Digital Minimalism” by Cal Newport”Stolen Focus” by Johan HariOff the Grid podcastAlexandra FranzenChatbooks photo book printingKelly Mosser’s content capsule webinarThis episode is a thoughtful reflection on how to embrace digital minimalism and build a healthier relationship with technology, whether you’re a business owner or a social media user.
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In this candid and thought-provoking episode, Becky and Taina tackle the complexities of Thanksgiving—a holiday deeply rooted in colonialism and one that many now see as a day of mourning for Indigenous peoples. From exploring the history of the Land Back movement to dissecting the capitalist takeover of the holiday season, this episode is full of reflections, insights, and actionable ideas for listeners who want to align their celebrations with their values. Becky and Taina discuss ways to decolonize Thanksgiving traditions, support Indigenous rights, and rethink consumerist habits like Black Friday shopping. They also share personal anecdotes and commitments for making this time of year more meaningful.
Discussed in This Episode
The history and myths of ThanksgivingThe Land Back movement and its implicationsWhy Thanksgiving is a day of mourning for Indigenous peoplesDecolonizing Thanksgiving celebrations with small but meaningful actionsEthical considerations around Black Friday and consumerismHow capitalism shapes Thanksgiving traditionsPractical ways to support Indigenous businesses and organizationsIntersectional feminism and its connection to Indigenous rightsTeaching kids about the true history of ThanksgivingSmall steps listeners can take to honor Indigenous communitiesResources Mentioned
Native-Land.caAn Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-OrtizBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer -
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive into strategies for building resilience, creating community, and thriving amidst social and political upheaval. They discuss creative resistance tactics, managing privilege in allyship, and ways to support mutual aid efforts at local and national levels. From anti-capitalist holiday shopping to the power of small, purposeful actions, this conversation is packed with ideas for meaningful change. Becky and Taina also explore how we can set boundaries with media and social media for mental health and make values-aligned decisions for the holidays.
Discussed in This Episode
Practical ways to participate in mutual aid and community supportCreative resistance strategies and preparing for social activismThe impact of reducing news and social media consumptionLeaving Meta and transitioning to BlueSky for more intentional engagementAnti-capitalist approaches to holiday spending and gift-givingWays to support marginalized communities through direct actionManaging privilege in social justice work and creating safe community spacesUsing Signal and encrypted apps for secure organizing and resource sharingInsights from My Grandmother’s Hands on somatic healing and conflict managementReflections on Patricia Hill Collins' Matrix of DominationResources Mentioned
Parable of the Sower by Octavia ButlerMy Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa MenakemBlack Feminist Thought by Patricia Hill CollinsBlueskySignal -
In this episode, Becky and Taina discuss the ethical and environmental concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. Reflecting on the impact of AI on content creation and business, they dig into the unsettling future AI could bring if unchecked. From Google's Notebook LM to ChatGPT, they explore the role of ethics, climate change, and mindful usage in navigating AI’s complex landscape.
Discussed in This Episode:
Google's Notebook LM and its potential applicationsThe ethics of AI in podcasting and content creationThe environmental impact of AI, including water consumptionAI's potential biases and limitationsAI’s influence on social media and attention economyThe need for mindful and intentional tech usagePersonal and community-driven approaches to using AI responsiblyResources Mentioned:
Sophia Noble's Algorithms of Oppression: https://amzn.to/40xGvVuGoogle Notebook LM: https://notebooklm.google/ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com/ -
In this special post-election episode, Becky Mollenkamp and Taina Brown dive into the emotional impact of the recent election, exploring how communities can heal and find resilience amidst political trauma. Joined by pleasure activist Goddess Erica, the episode includes a powerful grounding meditation for self-care and stress relief. This practice is designed to center the mind, reconnect with purpose, and empower listeners as they navigate the emotional challenges of the current political climate. Becky and Taina also discuss the importance of white allyship, accountability, and intersectional feminism in the wake of voting outcomes, highlighting the need for unity, reflection, and action.
Emotional impact of post-election trauma on communitiesThe complexities of racism, misogyny, and white allyship in politicsGuided meditation led by Goddess Erica for grounding and stress reliefIntersectional feminism as a foundation for mindful activismNavigating accountability within white allyshipPersonal reflections on post-election stress, resilience, and the path forwardThe importance of voting and community support in social justice movementsExploring the Deepa Iyer Social Change Map and roles in activism
Discussed in This Episode:Resources Mentioned:
Goddess Erica’s Website and InstagramBuilding Movement Project Social Change Ecosystem MapBuilding Movement Project Post-Election ToolkitManifest Your Dream Life free group coaching experience signup: Nov 9 and Nov 17Practicing New Worlds by Andrea J. Ritchie - Laat meer zien
