Shows
The ScariesThe Cult of “Community” — Why Women Are Targeted by Cults, MLMs, and Pyramid Schemes (Part 2) You thought pyramid schemes were a '90s thing? Think again. In this eye-opening Part 2, we unpack how cults, MLMs, and shady "boss babe" pitches are still thriving—and why women are in the bullseye. From sneaky social media tactics to the dark psychology of "community," we pull back the curtain on the red flags you need to spot. Spoiler: it’s not just about leggings, essential oils and protein powder. Get ready for the real tea on empowerment, manipulation, and how to protect yourself (and your group chat). Follow us on I...2025-04-2923 min
The ScariesThe 2025 Federal Election: What Women Need to KnowThis election isn’t just about party lines—it’s about your rights. From reproductive justice to gender-based violence, healthcare to childcare, we’re breaking down what’s at stake for women, girls, and gender-diverse folks in Canada’s 2025 federal election. We’re talking global ripple effects (hi, Trump), local policy gaps, and why silence on gender equity is never neutral. No jargon, no fluff—just real talk with a feminist lens on every platform. Tune in, get informed, and vote like the future depends on it… because it does.With special guest Joan...2025-04-1956 min
The ScariesThe Forgotten Women of History: Where’s Their Movie? Why does Hollywood have three separate biopics about Steve Jobs but not one about the women who invented WiFi, GPS, or even Monopoly?In this episode of The Scaries, we’re unpacking the erasure of women in history—why their contributions were overlooked, how their achievements were often credited to men (hello, Matilda Effect), and why we still have to fight for representation today.We’re bringing the receipts, the rage, and the feminist history textbooks to rewrite the narrative. Plus, we pitch three epic biopics that Hollywood needs to make ASAP. Follow us on...2025-03-1934 min
The ScariesThe Cult of “Community” — Why Women Are Targeted by Cults, MLMs, and Pyramid Schemes (Part 1)WE'RE BAAAAAACK!!!!Welcome to the dark, twisted world of cults, where manipulation is sold as salvation, and women, in particular, pay the price. In this week’s episode of The Scaries, we investigate why women have historically been drawn into cults—only to find themselves trapped in cycles of coercion, control, and, in some cases, outright abuse. Spoiler alert: this isn’t just a thing of the past.From The Manson Family and Jonestown to the rise of “Trad Wives” and influencer-led digital cults, the tactics remain the same, just with a modern, Instagram-friendly twist. Why are wo...2025-03-0427 min
The ScariesPop, Power, and Pressure: How 90s Girl Bands Shaped Millennial WomenAh, the 90s. A time of butterfly clips, chokers, and iconic girl bands that shaped our preteen karaoke dreams. Spice Girls, Destiny’s Child, TLC, Britney, Christina—they weren’t just artists; they were cultural forces who told us we could “have it all.” But what does “having it all” actually mean when you’re constantly told to be confident, independent—and, oh, don’t forget, sexy?Let’s talk about it: 90s girl bands didn’t just serve up bops; they handed us a complicated cocktail of empowerment and impossible expectations. While they sang about girl power and independence...2024-12-0327 min
The ScariesSidelined or Spotlighted? The Experience of Women in Media with Sabeen AhmadThis week, we’re spotlighting the crazy-but-true realities for women journalists—spoiler: it’s not all glitz and glamour. From online harassment to the ever-present glass ceiling, the barriers are real, but so is the bravery of women breaking them down. You’ve seen the stories: Gretchen Carlson and Megyn Kelly calling out harassment, Maria Ressa fighting online abuse, and Lisa LaFlamme facing ageism for simply going grey. And they’re not alone. With courage and solidarity, women in media are stepping up to address sexism, discrimination, and harassment. This week, we had the pleasure of talking to Sabeen...2024-11-121h 22
The ScariesBeyond the Vote: Breaking Barriers for WomenPlease note that RaiseHER Co. is a non-partisan organization, and this is not an endorsement for any political party or candidate. You know what we care about and where we stand!Like our neighbours down south, we’re also gearing up for provincial, municipal, and school board elections in our city. So, it’s the perfect time to shine a light on the unique challenges women face in politics. And who better to talk with than Regina’s first-ever female mayor, Sandra Masters?! She shares her experiences and insights as a woman in politics, and her story remind...2024-10-291h 29
The ScariesThe Scaries Does HalloweenHalloween is creeping up, and in true Scaries fashion, we’re here to talk about one of our favourite holidays. Seriously, what’s Halloween without some good scaries? But today, we’re going beyond candy and costumes—we’re digging into how this spooky season has shaped women’s lives throughout history. It’s a little spooky, a little empowering, and, yes, a bit sassy. So grab your pumpkin spice latte, and let’s get into it!Halloween, as we know it today, traces back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. The Celts celebrated it on October 31st, ma...2024-10-1627 min
The ScariesTruth, Justice, and Reconciliation: Progress and the Path Forward with Cadmus DelormeAs we reflect on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (September 30) and the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (October 4), it's crucial to face the uncomfortable truth: our country still has a long way to go. These days aren’t just dates on a calendar—they are calls to action for all of us to wake up and realize the systemic harm Indigenous communities continue to endure. Canada’s residential school legacy didn’t just cause trauma in the past; its impact still ripples through generations today. Imagine growing...2024-09-301h 25
The ScariesBack to School (& SEASON 2 PREMIERE!)WE'RE BAAACCCCCCKKKKKKK!!!! It’s back-to-school season, and whether you’re a student or a parent, this time of year brings excitement—and sometimes dread. In our season 2 premiere of The Scaries, we dive deep into the complexities of returning to school, focusing on the unique challenges that girls face today. The school environment can be a place of growth and learning, but it also comes with its share of struggles—from bullying and isolation to the very real threat of violence. And while we’ve seen improvements in inclusive education, mental health supports, and Indigenous teachings, there’s still a lo...2024-09-1737 min
The ScariesCultural Duality: Exploring Two-Spirit Identity with Lori Campbell | SEASON ONE FINALE!!!!!In the season finale of season one (HOLY MOLY! WE MADE IT!), we dive deep into the rich and often misunderstood concept of the Two-Spirit identity within Indigenous cultures. June is a month of celebration for both Pride and National Indigenous History Month, so we thought it would be a great time to bring back our friend, Lori Campbell. Lori, a Two-Spirit Montreal Lake Cree Nation member, shares her wealth of knowledge and personal experiences. This episode powerfully explores the cultural significance, challenges, and triumphs of Two-Spirit individuals.We delve into the profound impact of colonization on...2024-05-2852 min
The ScariesJuggling Act: Navigating Work and MotherhoodToday, we're tackling a topic close to our hearts: the balancing act of work and motherhood. If you’re a mom who works (or a working mom, because, let’s be real, all moms work HARD), this episode is for you. So, buckle up as we explore how motherhood impacts our careers and mental health. We are also thrilled to welcome Wura Dasylva, a corporate commercial lawyer and mom, to share her strategies for balancing a demanding career, motherhood, and community involvement. Her advice? You’ll have to listen to find out!Did you know that over 70% of mom...2024-05-211h 24
The ScariesMothering Minds: Unveiling the Truths of Perinatal Mental HealthComing at you this week with the alarming realities of perinatal mental health—a topic that hits close to home for many of us. Today, we're unpacking the real-life scaries and statistics surrounding mental health challenges that new mothers have faced for ages. We're thrilled to have a special guest and specialist in perinatal mental health to help us understand the severity of these issues and what we can do about it.So, what's going on with moms' mental health during the perinatal period? Well, it's pretty daunting. A staggering 75% of women meet the criteria for depressive an...2024-05-141h 19
The ScariesMomming So HardWelcome back to The Scaries, your go-to podcast for unravelling the alarming, the inconceivable, and the downright scary realities faced by women and girls worldwide. Today, we're diving deep into the complex world of motherhood. With Mother's Day just around the corner, and as moms and daughters ourselves, we couldn't think of a better time to shed light on this simultaneously challenging and rewarding role.But let's get real for a moment. Mother's Day isn't all sunshine and roses for everyone. We want to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate all the moms out there, whether...2024-05-0756 min
The ScariesThe Story of Happy Charles: Missing and MissedIn this special episode, we join forces with the YWCA of Regina and the All Nations Hope Network to shed light on Missing Persons Week, adopting this year's theme of "Stories Not Statistics." It's a time to move beyond mere numbers, recognizing that each missing person represents a cherished individual, deeply missed by their loved ones. This episode serves as a tribute to their humanity.The landscape of missing persons in Canada is complex, with varying data reporting systems across provinces. Nevertheless, the numbers paint a stark picture. Across the nation, males constitute a significant portion of...2024-04-3055 min
The ScariesClimate Change's Impact on WomenThis week, we unravel the unsettling reality that women, especially in equity-deserving and equity-seeking communities, bear the brunt of climate change's wrath. It's not just about melting ice caps and stranded polar bears; it's about how women are disproportionately affected by floods, droughts, and other climate-related disasters, often facing heightened risks and fewer resources to cope.So, why are women more impacted? Well, as climate change intensifies, existing gender inequalities are magnified. Women, particularly in developing countries, face heightened vulnerabilities due to their roles in their communities. From bearing the burden of water collection to enduring increased...2024-04-2322 min
The ScariesFrom Stigma to Strength: Women's Mental Wellness with Vibya Natana Welcome back, gorgeous souls, to another riveting episode of The Scaries, your go-to destination for unfiltered conversations about the realities of womanhood. Today, we're diving deep into the labyrinth of women's mental health, guided by none other than the inspiring Vibya Natana.In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the daunting world of mental health stigma, particularly its insidious impact on women. As we navigate the intricate web of societal expectations and gender norms, we uncover the harsh truth: women often bear the brunt of discrimination and barriers when seeking mental health support. But fear...2024-04-171h 19
The ScariesFrom Stigma to Strength: Women's Mental Wellness with Vibya Natana Welcome back, gorgeous souls, to another riveting episode of The Scaries, your go-to destination for unfiltered conversations about the realities of womanhood. Today, we're diving deep into the labyrinth of women's mental health, guided by none other than the inspiring Vibya Natana.In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the daunting world of mental health stigma, particularly its insidious impact on women. As we navigate the intricate web of societal expectations and gender norms, we uncover the harsh truth: women often bear the brunt of discrimination and barriers when seeking mental health support. But fear...2024-04-1600 min
The ScariesWisdom Keepers: Exploring Indigenous Matriarchal Leadership with Lori CampbellThis week, we're exploring the vital role of matriarchs in Indigenous communities. With Lori Campbell, a respected Two-Spirit Montreal Lake Cree Nation member and a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Toronto, we dive into the world of Indigenous women's leadership.Lori's research focuses on how Indigenous leadership is changing, especially in Canadian universities. More Indigenous women are taking on senior roles, challenging old ways and bringing Indigenous perspectives to the forefront. She shows us how matriarchs lead with consensus, taking a holistic view that includes everyone and everything. They use storytelling to pass on wisdom...2024-04-091h 10
The ScariesEmpowering Women Through… Leadership (Part 2 with THE MOMS!)PART TWO WITH THE MOMS! This week, we're tackling the dynamic concept of leadership, guided by the wisdom and experiences of our built-in mentors and leaders—our moms, Gwen and Marlene.If you know us, you know we’re passionate about intergenerational leadership. But what exactly does that mean? It's about meaningful engagement across generations, recognizing the valuable perspectives and experiences each generation brings to the table. This week, we explore this concept further and look at how leadership transcends job titles, authority, and power.We start by challenging conventional notions of leadership. True leadership isn...2024-04-0248 min
The ScariesEmpowering Women Through… Mentorship (Part 1 with THE MOMS!)This week, we’re exploring mentorship and its profound impact on women's empowerment. With the help of a few special guests, we'll examine mentorship's importance in challenging gender disparities, fostering leadership skills, and creating a more equitable society. Our discussion begins with a deep dive into mentorship's significance in promoting gender diversity and equity. Drawing on research findings, we highlight the tangible benefits of gender-inclusive workplaces and the economic imperative of advancing women's equality. From boosting profitability to driving innovation, mentorship emerges as a catalyst for organizational success and societal progress.Enter: OUR MOMS! Gwen an...2024-03-261h 11
The ScariesOn Screen, Off Balance: Representation in HollywoodWe're back with another episode shining a spotlight on Hollywood's representation—or lack thereof—of women on and off the screen. As we all know, the film industry plays a pivotal role in shaping societal norms and perceptions. From reflecting cultural values to influencing public opinion, movies hold immense power. However, despite its influence, Hollywood has long struggled with gender equality in front of and behind the camera.Historically, Hollywood has been a male-dominated arena, a trend that persists today. Shockingly, recent statistics reveal that only a fraction of top-grossing films feature substantial female representation in terms of c...2024-03-1933 min
The ScariesBreaking Financial Barriers: Empowering Women to ExcelReady to talk about representation in hedge funds, investment banking, and equity?! This week, we chat with Dajana and Pall, a duo from the RaiseHER Co. & U of R Champions of Change Club’s She’s Here mentorship program, who are dedicated to dismantling obstacles for women in the financial industry through their mentorship project!Off the hop, we explore gender disparities in finance and strategies for empowerment while busting some common myths about women and money. We reveal that women don't outspend men on average, tend to make more frequent but smaller impulse purchases, and are less...2024-03-1259 min
The ScariesIdentity Crisis: Uncovering the Truth About Impostor SyndromeThis week, Skylar and Talitha dive deep into the daunting world of impostor syndrome, joined by Dr. Negar Golbar, PharmD, shedding light on its prevalence and impact. The episode starts with a glimpse into the She’s Here Mentorship Program co-founded by Skylar and Talitha, where Dr. Golbar completed her research with mentee Darby Graham-Rowe.Impostor syndrome, coined in 1978, revolves around doubting one's abilities and feeling like a fraud, especially prevalent among accomplished women. Despite strides in education and professional success, women often struggle with confidence, attributing their achievements to luck or oversight rather than merit. This ph...2024-03-0551 min
The ScariesIn Her Shoes: Empowering Immigrant WomenTECHNICALLY, all non-Indigenous Canadians are immigrants or descendants of immigrants. Yet the terms “migrant” and “immigrant” are often equated with racialized minorities and oftentimes used to promote fear and distrust of “others” who are different.The intersectionality of identity traits profoundly influences women's experiences, so this week, we’re exploring immigrant women's unique challenges, particularly in Canada.Despite Canada's reputation as a multicultural haven, immigrant women encounter significant barriers, from economic disparities to systemic discrimination. Historically, immigration policies favoured certain groups, perpetuating discriminatory practices. Today, immigrant women grapple with assimilation versus cultural preservation, facing pressure to conform whi...2024-02-271h 03
The ScariesConfronting the Shadows: Indigenous Women and the Terrifying Reality of ViolenceThis week, we share the chilling statistics and heartbreaking realities surrounding violence against Indigenous women in Canada. With a focus on shedding light on this deeply concerning issue, we explore the alarming rates of violence and the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous communities.Note: This episode is not going to focus on the genocide of Missing and Murdered Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people. While related and connected, that’s a separate topic that will get its own episode.As always, we start by looking at the research: Indigenous women and girls are three times more li...2024-02-201h 01
The ScariesIt’s a Barbie World: The Reclamation (Part 3)Come on, Barbie, let's go party! The final part of the Barbie series is HERE!Welcome to the conclusion of our Barbie series, where we delve into the complexities of everyone's favourite doll! In our previous instalments, we explored the criticisms levelled against Barbie, particularly focusing on the third and fourth waves of feminism and their impact on attitudes towards Barbie. In this episode, we shift gears to examine the resurgence of Barbie's popularity and the significant influence of the 2023 movie release, which not only entertains but sparks essential conversations about gender, equity, and societal norms.2024-02-1337 min
The ScariesBeyond the Blade: The Terrifying Truths of Female Genital MutilationIn honour of the International Day for Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on February 6, we’re sharing the alarming, horrifying and terrifying realities of FGM and shedding light on this widespread issue affecting millions of women and girls.Throughout the episode, we explore FGM's definitions, history, and cultural implications and then dive into the societal norms and traditions that contribute to the continuation of this harmful practice, linking it to child marriage and ingrained beliefs about women's roles.To drive change, we discuss the role of legislation and international agreements in combatting FGM. Ad...2024-02-0632 min
The ScariesWhat Lurks in the Dark: The Realities of Human TraffickingThis week, we’re shining a light on a monster that lurks in the dark. This will not be an easy one to listen to, and we want listeners to be incredibly clear that we will be chatting about the horrific realities that exist for many women and girls in this country and abroad as it relates to human trafficking.In this emotionally charged episode, we explore the grim realities faced by countless women and girls as we navigate the harsh truths of human trafficking. We stress the urgency of discussing this issue and explore firsthand accounts fr...2024-01-3047 min
The ScariesIt’s a Barbie World: The Fallout (Part 2)Part 2 of Barbie is here! This week, we explore the evolution and the fallout she faced during the '90s and beyond.Barbie starts as a symbol of childhood innocence, transcending racial boundaries. But as societal norms change, critiques against the iconic doll surface. Especially in the ‘90s, Barbie encounters significant backlash, particularly regarding body image concerns, lack of racial representation, and potential impact on young girls' self-esteem. This era becomes a battleground for Barbie's symbolic representation.We explore the influence of third-wave feminism, emerging in the mid-'90s, which aims to challenge and redefine co...2024-01-2335 min
The ScariesBehind the Beat: Gender Barriers in the Music BizThis week, we shed light on the stark realities women face in the music industry. In our detailed exploration, we draw upon insights from the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, exposing the persistent underrepresentation of women, particularly in roles in songwriting and producing. We also glimpse the challenging landscape that female artists navigate with guest Katie Sahlu, who shares her experiences in the Canadian music scene in Toronto and provides valuable insights into issues like unequal compensation and workplace discrimination.As always, we don’t just present the problems—we offer solutions too! Movements like Women in Music (WiM) are...2024-01-161h 34
The ScariesLeading Ladies: The Economic Journey of Women EntrepreneursAs we navigate our own business goals for the year ahead, we can't help but reflect on the economic highs and lows we face as entrepreneurs. So, this week, we thought it would be the right time to investigate the world of women entrepreneurs—where they've been, where they are, and where they're headed.In addition to revealing the scaries about women entrepreneurs and chatting about what’s being done, we're also honoured to have Miriam Johnson, CEO of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (WESK), to discuss all things women entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan and beyond.Follow us o...2024-01-091h 28
The Scaries2023 Wrapped: Women's Wins, Losses & LessonsIn this episode, we look at the persistent realities (and scaries) impacting women and girls globally, shedding light on the staggering statistics and pivotal moments that happened in 2023. We explore various themes throughout the discussion, from political representation to workplace challenges, human rights issues, and the persistent struggle for gender equity.Starting with a few positives, we saw increased numbers of women in government and encouraging(ish) statistics on mental well-being in the workplace. Additionally, initiatives and investments by the Government of Canada, such as bilateral agreements to combat gender-based violence and support for marginalized groups, mark...2023-12-2649 min
The ScariesDeconstructing Jingles: Unwrapping Sexist Undertones in Holiday Songs'Tis the season for holly, jolly jingles, but have you ever really listened to what some of these commercialized holiday songs are about? This week, we deconstruct the lyrics and themes of classic holiday tunes with problematic themes, sharing both sides of the argument—should these songs be cancelled or reinterpreted as feminist anthems? We’ll let you be the judge!BUT FIRST, it's important to consider the historical context and evolution of societal values when analyzing these songs. Some holiday music reflects cultural norms from different time periods (which is true of the songs we dissect in t...2023-12-1954 min
The ScariesIt’s a Barbie World: The Birth (Part 1)Shifting gears a bit this week, we decided to delve into the captivating yet complex world of… Barbie!This week we begin a comprehensive exploration of Barbie's cultural significance, shedding light on her inception, societal impact, and the evolving landscape of women's rights during her era._On March 9, 1959, Barbara Millicent Roberts, better known as Barbie, entered the world. Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, envisioned a doll that challenged societal norms by offering girls an aspirational figure beyond traditional maternal roles. Inspired by the lack of imaginative play options for her daughter, Barbara, Handler so...2023-12-1252 min
The ScariesMind the Gap: 2023's Shocking Gender Pay Disparities RevealedThis week, we are chatting about the gender pay gap, pay inequities, and what we can do in 2023 (a real feel-good moment!).Tackling the definitions and history behind this issue, we distinguish between the gender pay gap and pay equity. We then uncover the many reasons for the pay gap, including occupational segregation, fewer opportunities for women in higher-paying roles, and societal expectations leading to unpaid domestic work. Furthermore, we shed light on the disproportionate impact on marginalized groups, revealing wider gaps for Indigenous, racialized, newcomer, disabled, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.As always, we propose actionable...2023-12-0554 min
The ScariesGaslighting in HealthcareThis week, we dive deep into a pervasive and unsettling issue: gaslighting women in healthcare. The episode, featuring Dr. Mikayla Raddysh, ND, of Thrive Naturopathic, sheds light on the alarming frequency with which women's health concerns are dismissed, overlooked, or misdiagnosed, posing serious repercussions for their well-being.The podcast highlights personal experiences and societal implications of gaslighting in healthcare. From historical disparities rooted in unethical experiments to statistics revealing delays in diagnosis and inadequate treatment for women, the episode uncovers unsettling trends.We then chat with Dr. Raddysh, a seasoned Naturopathic Doctor who provides expert...2023-11-281h 09
The SYPE ShowSYPE Show EP #9 Talitha McCloskeyThe SYPE Show SZN 2 kicks off with Talitha! Talitha is the co-founder of RaiseHER Co, an inclusive circle of change-makers in Regina designed to connect, support and raise women and girls to become leaders in their communities. She also happens to be the SYPE Regina President, and an absolute force when it comes to building relationships and supporting others. 'Dare to Lead' certified, Talitha addresses heavy topics with grace, and provides insight on how to invite other circles into these conversations for the greatest impact. Talitha shares her journey, a Silver Spades recap, her hopes and dreams for the...2023-11-221h 03
The ScariesByte-Sized Horrors: A Look Into the Internet’s Assault on WomenThis week, we delve into cyber violence against women, focusing on its prevalence, impact, and possible solutions.In this episode, you’ll be introduced to the concept of cyber violence, explaining its various forms. We present how this form of violence disproportionately affects young women, emphasizing the psychological and emotional toll it takes, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and isolation. We also stress the disturbing nature of the attacks.We invited Morgan Mayer, a TikTok influencer known for her no-nonsense approach to wedding planning as @nobsbride, to share her experience with substantial online hate. Morgan sh...2023-11-2151 min
The ScariesSilent Scars: Intimate Partner Violence, Who’s Most Vulnerable & How You Can HelpIn the first episode of The Scaries, hosts Skylar and Talitha dive into the scaries related to intimate partner violence. They reveal some shocking facts and statistics about how this affects different groups of women, including Indigenous women, immigrants, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning and additional sexual orientations and gender identities) community. They also mention what Canada is trying to do to help and share tips for how people can support those going through this scary situation.It's a tough subject, but through The Scaries, we're trying to make...2023-11-1247 min
Keep Yourself WellEmpowering Women With RaiseHER CommunityEp.85 | Raising and inspiring the next generation of women is more important now than ever. In this episode, Kalli chats with Skylar Gerard and Talitha McCloskey, two of the co-creators of RaiseHER Community, a for-impact business that's working to raise the next wave of female leaders.
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