Odd Moms On Call

Tag: motherhood

  • Scapegoats, School Shootings, and Safe Spaces: Parenting in 2025

    Scapegoats, School Shootings, and Safe Spaces: Parenting in 2025

    Parenting in the Age of Violence and Erasure

    Every parent wishes they could shield their children from the scariest headlines. But in today’s world—where mass shootings dominate the news, rainbow crosswalks are painted over, and politicians scapegoat trans communities—shielding isn’t enough. Parents have to talk, teach, and guide their kids through realities we wish they never had to face.

    That’s exactly what we tackled in episode nine of Odd Moms On Call, with hosts Britt, Kara, and Dr. Jess Rabon. Together, we unpacked the fear, misinformation, and resilience parents are navigating in 2025.

    The Dangerous Power of Scapegoating

    In the aftermath of the recent Minneapolis mass shooting, right-wing media outlets wasted no time turning the tragedy into an identity story. Instead of focusing on guns, they zeroed in on the shooter’s trans identity—ignoring the actual statistics.

    The truth? Research shows that 98% of mass shooters are men, and just a handful out of thousands have ever been trans. Trans individuals are far more likely to face violence than to commit it. When politicians and media twist the narrative, it not only distracts from real solutions like gun reform—it actively fuels stigma and puts LGBTQ+ youth in greater danger.

    Mental Health Isn’t the Enemy

    Another common scapegoat? Mental illness. Yet studies from the Columbia Mass Murder Database found that only about 3–5% of violent acts are committed by people with serious mental illness. And while antidepressants (SSRIs) are often demonized in the wake of tragedies, there’s no evidence they cause mass shootings. In fact, many shooters had no access to care at all.

    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    By blaming mental health instead of addressing systemic issues, politicians not only stigmatize those who are struggling—they also justify cuts to the very services that could prevent violence.

    Talking to Kids Without Breaking Them

    So how do we talk to our kids about these issues without overwhelming them? Kara and Jess both emphasize starting small and age-appropriate.

    • Preschoolers: Keep it simple. Answer their questions honestly, but focus on safety, kindness, and empathy.
    • School-aged kids: Talk openly about bullying, inclusivity, and how to speak up if they or their peers feel unsafe.
    • Tweens and teens: Bring in statistics and critical thinking. Help them navigate misinformation and media narratives.

    As Britt shared, sometimes it comes down to foundational truths: “At the end of the day, we’re all humans. What makes us different is what makes the world better.”

    Building Empathy and Connection

    The panel agreed—what really matters is connection. Kids need safe spaces where they can talk, question, and be affirmed for who they are. Parents can’t control every law, policy, or playground comment, but they can control how their kids feel at home.

    And connection isn’t just for kids. Parents also need grounding and community to stay resilient in times like these. As Jess put it: “Connectiveness is power. Without it, we retreat into isolation—and that’s when things get dangerous.”

    Final Thoughts

    Parenting in 2025 means raising kids in a world that often feels unsafe and hostile. But it also means modeling empathy, refusing to accept scapegoating, and showing up with love. We may not be able to choose the world our kids inherit, but we can choose how we show up in it—and that choice matters.

    Photo by Elina Fairytale on Pexels.com

    For resources on talking to kids about scary news, supporting LGBTQ+ youth, or taking political action, check out the show notes from this episode.

  • Parenting in a Post-Roe America: How Reproductive Rights Shape Our Families

    Parenting in a Post-Roe America: How Reproductive Rights Shape Our Families

    Reproductive Rights Aren’t Just About Abortion

    Since the fall of Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights in America have shifted drastically. But for many families, it’s not just about abortion, it’s about how systemic control over bodies affects every decision, from conception to parenting.

    In a recent episode of Odd Moms On Call, the panel confront the emotional, political, and deeply personal toll of these laws.

    A positive pregnancy test and a fuzzy ultrasound image.
    Photo by olia danilevich on Pexels.com

    Real Stories, Real Impact

    The conversation opens with the tragic story of Adriana Smith, a Black mother in Georgia who was declared brain dead and kept alive to deliver a baby. “She was used as an incubator,” says Tianna, a NICU nurse and panelist, who shared how similar cases triggered her own PTSD.

    The episode reminds us that the U.S. maternal mortality crisis, especially for Black women, isn’t new. It’s just being thrust into the spotlight.

    Beyond the Headlines

    These laws aren’t theoretical. They’re changing lives. Kara Kushnir, LCSW, PMH-C, shares,

    “I work with women afraid to pursue IVF because they’re unsure what will happen to their embryos. Others are terrified they’ll be criminalized for miscarriages.”

    Courtney adds, “I’m getting my tubes removed. Not just because I’m done having kids, but because I’m scared.”

    a female surgeon performing a tubal ligation.
    Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

    The Mental Health Toll

    Beyond medical implications, the mental health fallout is profound. “We’re navigating vicarious trauma,” Kara explains. “Clients who are anxious now have legitimate fears rooted in policy.”

    Chelsea reflects on this added burden: “It goes way beyond medical. It’s emotional, political, and deeply personal. You wake up in a war zone just for existing.”

    Raising Kids with Autonomy

    But amidst the grief and anger, there’s hope. The panel discusses how they’re raising kids to respect consent and bodily autonomy. From using anatomically correct terms with toddlers to modeling healthy boundaries, it’s about more than sex ed. It’s abuse prevention, empowerment, and long-term change.

    “My daughter told her daycare friend, ‘I don’t want a hug right now, but I’ll give you a fist bump.’ That’s what hope looks like.” —Courtney

    Resources to Learn More

    Closing Thought

    Reproductive freedom doesn’t start or end with a single issue. It’s the foundation for how we care for ourselves, our children, and each other. As Chelsea says:

    “There’s room at the table for different opinions. But right now, the table is being taken away from us.”

  • Raising Kids Beyond the Binary

    Raising Kids Beyond the Binary

    What Parents Really Think About the “Gender Wars”

    A Panel of Moms Talks Identity, Legislation, and Love

    In a climate where gender identity has become a cultural battleground, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a parent. But in Episode 5 of Odd Moms On Call, our diverse panel of moms brings nuance, honesty, and humanity back to the conversation.

    From Oklahoma to Vermont, our panelists share what it’s like to parent through a storm of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rising political tension.

    An image of our Odd Moms Panel Members set against an orange background.
    Our Odd Moms Panel

    Britt, a non-binary mom raising a non-binary child, describes the healing of helping her kids find the words they never had.

    Jess, a psychologist in South Carolina, shares what it means to support trans youth when medical care is being banned.

    Tianna opens up about raising neurodivergent children with love, fluidity, and fierce compassion.

    Lindsey, a mom, artist, advocate, and creator of safe spaces, shares how she probes deeper when people point out gender norms.

    And Chelsea—non-binary parent, writer, chronic illness warrior —reminds us that kids often grasp what adults complicate.

    “Children aren’t too young to learn about gender,” Jess says. “They’re too young to be targeted.”

    an image of a child with a brightly colored hat, jumper, and sandals, jumping with their arms spread wide.
    Photo by Germu00e1n TR on Pexels.com

    Why This Episode Matters

    The conversation spans legislation, schools, identity exploration, and how parents are creating safe, affirming homes. There’s also humor (Skibidi toilet, anyone?), grace for those still learning, and unflinching honesty.

    Importantly, our panelists highlight resources for parents:

    Our Takeaway

    Parenting in 2025 means making space for your child to explore who they are—even if it scares you. Especially then. As Britt says, “You can’t indoctrinate a kid into loving themselves too much.”

    If you’re navigating gender identity parenting, know this: you’re not alone. And the kids? They’re alright.

    Listen to the full episode here, and let us know your thoughts on the state of The Gender Wars.

  • U.S. vs. Canadian Healthcare: A Costly Comparison

    U.S. vs. Canadian Healthcare: A Costly Comparison

    Ever had to choose between a doctor’s visit and groceries? If so, you’re not alone. In episode two of Odd Moms On Call, we’re diving into the stark differences between the U.S. and Canadian healthcare systems—two countries with vastly different approaches to medical care, yet both filled with frustrated parents navigating the system.

    From skyrocketing medical bills to long wait times, we share real-life mom experiences that highlight what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to change. Spoiler alert: This conversation was way too big for just one episode. We will continue the discussion in a future installment.

    a picture of a doctor with his arms folded across his chest.
    Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.com

    Healthcare in the U.S.: A Pricey Gamble

    In the U.S., healthcare is often tied to employment, meaning a job change or layoff can put an entire family’s health at risk. Even with insurance, unexpected medical costs can lead to crushing medical debt. The for-profit nature of healthcare affects reimbursement rates. It also influences private insurance coverage and hospital costs. These factors all play a role in determining the level of care a patient receives.

    The Burden of Medical Debt

    Many Americans avoid seeking medical care due to cost concerns, often waiting until a minor issue becomes a major emergency. And when they do get treated? Bills can be life-altering. As one mom put it, “It’s a cyclical scam.”

    Long Waits for Mental Health Support

    For parents seeking mental health care for their kids, wait times can be agonizing—especially for those relying on state-funded programs. Some families wait months (or even years) to access therapy, leaving children without the support they desperately need.

    two patients wait in a waiting room while a doctor attends to another patient.
    Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

    Canadian Healthcare: Free, But Flawed

    Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system ensures no one goes bankrupt from medical expenses. Still, it’s far from perfect. Emergency care is generally accessible. However, finding a family doctor is becoming increasingly difficult. Specialist wait times can be painfully long.

    The Wait Time Dilemma

    Getting an appointment with a specialist—especially for mental health—can take months. While emergency care is usually prioritized, preventative services often take a backseat. “We need to find a middle ground,” one of our guests noted.

    The Hidden Costs of “Free” Healthcare

    While Canadians don’t pay out-of-pocket for doctor visits, private insurance is still needed for many essential services, like occupational therapy. And even though their system isn’t for-profit, low wages and burnout among healthcare workers contribute to ongoing systemic struggles.

    A family doctor listens to a patient's heartbeat and breathing with a stethoscope.
    Photo by Antoni Shkraba on Pexels.com

    What Needs to Change?

    Both countries have healthcare challenges that impact families in real and frustrating ways. Whether it’s tackling medical debt in the U.S. or improving preventative care in Canada, one thing is clear—change is needed.

    We’ll be revisiting this conversation in a future episode because there’s so much more to unpack. Until then, grab your coffee (or wine), and let’s keep the conversation going.

    Be sure to catch the full episode: Moms, Maple Syrup, and Medical Bills

  • Odd Moms On Call: Episode One – Parenting in Political Chaos

    Odd Moms On Call Logo with Microphone

    Strap In

    Welcome to the Odd Moms On Call Podcast! We’re a panel of moms from diverse backgrounds coming together to have real, unfiltered conversations about parenting in today’s challenging political climate. This podcast is all about creating a space for open discussion—without judgment—on the issues that shape our families, our communities, and our world.

    Why These Conversations Matter

    Parenting has never been easy, but today’s world presents unique challenges. The political landscape influences everything from education to mental health, and families—especially immigrant families—often find themselves at the center of national debates. In this episode, we discuss why it’s so important to have tough conversations and how community support can make a difference.

    mom having a serious conversation with her kids over dinner.

    The Impact of the Political Climate on Families

    Politics isn’t just about policies; it’s about people. Families today are navigating laws and rhetoric that affect their everyday lives, from school policies to healthcare access. Immigrant families, in particular, face systemic barriers that make raising children even more challenging. We explore how these issues shape the way we parent and why advocacy is essential for creating a more just society.

    Mental Health and Motherhood

    Parenting is an emotional rollercoaster, and mental health is often overlooked in discussions about raising kids. We share our own struggles and triumphs in maintaining mental well-being while juggling responsibilities. How do we protect our children’s mental health while also caring for our own? And how do we break generational cycles to raise emotionally intelligent, empathetic kids?

    Education and the Power of Knowledge

    Education plays a critical role in shaping our children’s futures and the values of society. From book bans to curriculum debates, we discuss how the current political climate is influencing what kids learn in schools. How can parents ensure that their children receive an inclusive and accurate education? And what role does activism play in safeguarding educational equity?

    Dehumanization and Its Consequences

    One of the most alarming trends in today’s political landscape is the dehumanization of marginalized groups. When political rhetoric reduces people to stereotypes or threats, it has real-world consequences. We examine how this impacts families, particularly immigrant communities, and discuss what we can do as parents to counteract harmful narratives.

    Raising Empathetic Children

    Empathy is the antidote to division. Teaching kids to see and respect the humanity in others is more important than ever. We share our personal approaches to raising compassionate, socially conscious children in a world that often encourages detachment and indifference.

    The Importance of Community Support

    No parent should have to navigate these challenges alone. Community support is vital, whether it’s through local networks, online groups, or activism. We talk about the power of collective action and how moms can lead the charge in advocating for change.

    Listen to the Full Episode

    Join us for this powerful conversation by listening to Episode One of Odd Moms On Call. Let’s start these discussions, support each other, and raise the next generation to be kinder, wiser, and more aware.

    Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the intersection of parenting, politics, and social justice.