Afleveringen

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    There has been an emerging trend of families where multiple members identify as transgender. It often begins with one person transitioning, followed by the partner adopting a non-binary identity or similar. In some cases, this trajectory extends to their children, with multiple kids identifying as transgender. Videos circulating online depict adults posing leading questions to very young children, as young as four or five years old, which appear to steer the child towards identifying as transgender. What could be behind this phenomenon?

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Emma Thomas describes the destabilizing effect her father's transition had on her sense of self and the significant disruption and uncertainty she experienced regarding her own identity and place within both her family as well as within society.

    Watch our full length episode with Emma Thomas: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-169

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  • Sasha and Stella warmly welcome Emma Thomas to the show highlighting her significant role as an advocate for children of transitioners. Emma talks about growing up with an AGP dad, the importance of safeguarding children, the misinformation around chestfeeding, and her hope that autogynephilia is treatable or preventable.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-169

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  • Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?

    Klik hier om de feed te vernieuwen.

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    Trauma therapy culture promotes the prevailing view that trauma inevitably leads to PTSD and every negative feeling or experience is ultimately some kind of “trauma response”. Trigger warnings are everywhere. And Western society is obsessed with protecting everyone’s feelings. But, the human condition encompasses a wide array of emotions and feelings, and overcoming hardship is a natural developmental pathway for growth. Human beings are naturally inclined to survive, most people’s default response to trauma is in fact resilience.

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Abigail Shrier emphasizes the importance of recognizing and fostering resilience rather than assuming that traumatic experiences will inevitably lead to long-term psychological damage. She stresses the importance of teaching children about historical family struggles to inspire strength. And she advocates that well-intentioned parents should not be undermined by external judgments, as a strong, supportive family bond is crucial for children's growth.

    Watch our full length episode with Abigail Shrier: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-168

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  • Sasha and Stella welcome author and journalist Abigail Shrier to the show, and what a remarkable conversation exploring the impact of mental health culture on young people and families, how therapeutic attitudes are shaping schools and parenting practices, and the adverse effects of specific social and psychological interventions on youth.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-168

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    Are other legal precedents related to issues like abortion, euthanasia, lobotomies, or cosmetically oriented body modifications that can shed light on current legal challenges involving gender medicine?

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Josh Payne explains how legal strategies often involve comparing new cases to similar past ones where patients experienced harm due to misinformation or non-disclosure. He cites examples of medical harm cases, emphasizing the importance of proving intentional deception to establish fraud, noting that historical medical practices like lobotomies, now judged harshly, provide a precedent for current critiques of gender medical interventions.

    Watch our full length free episode with Josh Payne: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-167

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  • In this episode, Sasha and Stella welcome lawyer, Josh Payne, co-founder of Campbell Miller Payne, a law firm dedicated to representing individuals who were misled and abused – many as children – into psychological and physical harm through a false promise of “gender-affirming care.” Campbell Miller Payne is committed to its mission to speak up for these victims, assert their rights, and pursue justice.

    This is a conversation about various legal challenges faced by detransitioners, such as issues with informed consent, systemic healthcare problems, and the experimental nature of many treatments. The discussion emphasizes the vulnerability of clients, the lack of comprehensive care addressing underlying mental health issues, and the need for cautious medical practices, underscoring the importance of seeking justice for those affected and advocating for more responsible treatment alternatives to gender-affirming care.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-167

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    Is there a "prodigal son" element to the phenomenon of estranged children returning to their families? (Thanks to one of our founding members for submitting this question). While estrangement is a complex and new issue for many, there are some (if not common) instances where estranged children do find their way back to their families, however sometimes uneasily. But, this observation ties into themes discussed in Abigail Shrier's book "Irreversible Damage", which mentions that while "glitter families" (chosen families) might not be there in times of crisis, biological families often will be.

    What are some mistakes that you see parents making, which actually push the child further away? Empathy, patience, and strategic thinking are critical for parents to create a more conducive environment for potential reconciliation with their estranged children. But what should they avoid?

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Joshua Coleman, Ph.D. addresses these questions and more, emphasizing that estrangement affects the entire family dynamic, not just the parent-child relationship. Coleman highlights that the majority of estrangements do reconcile, often driven by life events or personal growth. And he also outlines five key mistakes parents make that can push estranged children further away as well as coping strategies for parents dealing with long-term estrangement.

    Want more from Dr. Joshua Coleman?

    WEBINARS FOR ESTRANGED PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS

    Visit drjoshuacoleman.com and scroll to bottom to subscribe to his newsletter.

    Watch our full length episode with Dr. Joshua Coleman: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-166

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  • In this episode, Sasha and Stella delve into the intricate world of family estrangement with psychologist and author, Dr. Joshua Coleman. Coleman's insights highlight the complexity and emotional strain of estrangement, emphasizing empathy, responsibility, and strategic communication as essential tools for parents navigating these challenging dynamics.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-166

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    In today's internet age, so many are encountering the complex effects of cancel culture affording its victims a wide spectrum of implications, from severe career-ending scenarios to minor social ostracism and even family tensions and divisions.

    The digital revolution is not only exacerbating the dynamics between parents and their activist-minded children, but is also dramatically shifting generational dynamics as well. This is further complicated by societal reverence for youth and intellect, often overshadowing the value of life experience and the idea that “with age comes wisdom”.

    The profound influence of the internet becomes evident as we witness the ever-evolving impact of digital tech, transforming the way people engage with each other and the world around them, reshaping not only societal norms but also personal relationships, and fundamentally altering how individuals interact and connect.

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Meghan Daum reflects with a nostalgia for the freedom and authenticity of past decades. The discussion explores the profound changes shaping our social landscape in contrast with historical contexts of youth culture, the erosion of respect for older generations' experiences, and the adverse effects of prioritizing youthful perspectives over seasoned wisdom.

    Watch our full length episode with Meghan Daum: https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-165

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  • Sasha and Stella sit down with the multifaceted Meghan Daum, distinguished author, cultural commentator, and fellow podcast host, for a compelling exploration of societal change, the complexities of modern life, and coping through humor. Known for her incisive commentary and fearless exploration of complex topics, Meghan shares her personal reflections on identity and the central and contentious nature of gender in modern culture.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-165

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    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Freya India highlights the complex interplay between mental health treatment, marketing psychology, medication side effects, and sexual identity.

    "If you strip back some of this, marketing and look at actually what it is
what they're saying is women can't handle life without constant intervention and solutions and medication and products. And it's so patronizing."

    SSRIs, or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, are a class of antidepressant medications commonly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and certain other mental health conditions. Reported side-effects of many SSRI’s and antidepressants include decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm. As western cultures observe a trending rise in asexuality among young women as well as a rapid increase in the widespread use SSRIs and other antidepressants for depression and anxiety, could there be link between post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) and the identification of some individuals as asexual? As these kinds of drugs are being so regularly prescribed, are patients being adequately warned about the potential for long-term sexual side-effects?

    Freya India wrote about this in her article, Are You Asexual Or On Antidepressants?: You deserve to know if your sexual identity is a side-effect.

    And are the mental health companies targeting women with patronizing marketing tactics implying that women need pharmaceutically induced wellness?

  • Stella and Sasha welcome writer and columnist Freya India to the show this week, offering deep insights about the impact of screens and technology on young people and practical advice for balanced living in the digital age. They explore Gen Z's relationship with Instagram and dating apps, the fixation on mental illness and identity, and the misleading notion that you can buy your authentic self.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-164

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    Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching

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    “Chestfeeding”. A controversial term recently adopted from inside the critical social justice movement as inclusive language for discussing breastfeeding. But is it biologically plausible for men to induce lactation? Is it even milk? Is it safe? Natural mammalian lactation possesses evolutionary significance beyond basic sustenance and often provides broader biological functions in human development.

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Heather Heying offers up an evolutionary perspective on breastfeeding and the value of breast milk, discussing the broader implications and functions of breast milk beyond just nutrition. The conversation also explores the parenting practices observed in hunter-gatherer cultures in comparison to the trend of over-parenting in more modern American households.

  • Evolutionary biology, gender dynamics, societal norms, chemicals, technology
there is no denying the intricate interplay between biological, psychological, technological and cultural factors in shaping human behavior and identity. Sasha and Stella welcome guest, Heather Heying to the show for a grounding conversation exploring the complexity of human behavior, the inevitability of making mistakes, the anxieties and fears prevalent among the younger generation, and the importance of understanding risk thresholds in navigating life's uncertainties.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-163

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    In the past decade, it seems a cultural shift toward individualism has created a reluctance among friend groups to share personal struggles, often reserving them for therapy instead. It is important to acknowledge that there exists a delicate paradox in promoting the value of friendships as a source of support while also recognizing that not all issues can be effectively managed solely through peer relationships and do in fact require professional intervention. However, the current climate tends to magnify every subtle emotional fluctuation, hindering resilience and stability in young people. And lo and behold, there is a growing body of reports suggesting that the hyper-focus on mental health may inadvertently contribute to distress and loneliness rather than alleviating it.

    All of us parents, we're kind of going, ‘I think I should say, get a grip and go back and do your homework’. But the world is telling me I should work with this. And we end up indulging it. And so these kids are constantly fed that this is appropriate. And the kid ends up in a very self-indulgent place around it. And they're not the better for it. They're more brittle. They're they're less strong. They're less resilient. And they could have done with some humor and some ‘you'll be okay, you can figure this out’.

    It's important to recognize that even difficult emotions serve a purpose and should be respected. Understanding the normal fluctuations in emotional states and appreciating the potential functions of a wide range of emotional experiences is key. True wellness isn't solely about the absence of distress but involves achieving a balanced approach to coping and self-regulation amidst the highs, the lows and everywhere in between. This entails taking responsibility for one's own well-being and exploring various management strategies beyond therapy alone.

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Sasha and Stella critique the culture of over-reliance on therapy and offer alternative approaches for parents, such as encouraging self-reliance and exploring various resources beyond traditional therapy. They highlight the need for parents to take a lighter touch and consider broader solutions for their children's well-being.

    Let's take off the gender glasses altogether. And let's think much broader about the needs of this young person.

    Watch the full length episode exploring the over-treatment of young people here:

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  • This episode covers a lot of ground, emphasizing the complexities of therapy, the necessity for critical examination of conventional wisdom, and the importance of nurturing authentic relationships both inside the family and social circles (but more specifically, outside of the clinical setting).

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-162

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    Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching

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    To learn more about our sponsors, visit:

    Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/ (formerly GETA)

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    In many regions, institutional mandates and professional standards that prioritize affirming a child's gender identity without considering alternative approaches or potential risks, are requiring therapists to adhere to gender-affirming care protocols, regardless of any personal reservations and/or evidence based recommendations for anything other than 


  • If you work in pediatric gender medicine and have concerns about the safety of practice, you are not alone. Contact the LGBT Courage Coalition for guidance and support (including finding legal counsel and connecting you with media contacts).

    Stella and Sasha welcome whistleblower, Tamara Pietzke for an important conversation highlighting the valuable role that clinicians who are able to speak openly play in revealing insights from ‘behind the gender affirming care curtain’.

    Tamara’s story highlights the challenges and ethical dilemmas involved in providing gender-affirming care to children and the difficulties whistleblowers are facing in speaking out against harmful practices and the lack of informed consent.

    Support Tamara Pietzke

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-161

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    Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching

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    Teenagers, particularly those on the autism spectrum, encounter unique challenges in navigating social expectations, understanding their own identity, and processing information. These challenges can be compounded by the influence of social media and mainstream narratives, which often perpetuate misconceptions.

    Yet, the capacity of teenagers for critical analysis and insightful reflections is frequently underestimated. It is crucial to promote open dialogue and the exploration of diverse viewpoints to empower teenagers to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their surroundings.

    In this bonus episode for premium subscribers, Christina Buttons emphasizes the complexities teenagers encounter, especially those who are grappling with their identity amid societal pressures. She highlights several tools and approaches that she believes young people could benefit from in fostering intellectual curiosity.

    The Coddling of the American Mind is currently available for viewing exclusively on Substack.

    Watch our full length episode with Christina Buttons:

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  • This episode opens with an extended introduction exploring the recent release of The Cass Review - Final Report, as this is a massive development in the world of gender medicalization. The guest feature begins at the 00:10:30 timestamp, so please feel free to skip ahead if you’d like.

    Sasha and Stella welcome guest, Christina Buttons, for a special conversation covering everything from her personal experiences with autism, her troubled adolescence, and her work as an investigative journalist, to her awakening to gender issues and her extensive research efforts.

    The episode gets into the concept of stress perception and resilience, the intersection of autism and gender dysphoria, and the lack of informed consent in medical interventions for trans identified individuals.

    For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-160

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    Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching

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