Judging Meghan

• Grief, Healing, and the Hole That Remains: A Mother's Journey Through Loss and Life After Suicide with Author Betsy Thibaut Stephenson

  Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicide, depression, and grief—please listen with care. In this deeply emotional episode, I'm sharing the space with a remarkable guest: Betsy Thibaut Stephens. Betsy is a mother, writer, and survivor of unthinkable loss. Her son, Charlie, was a bright, compassionate, easygoing 21-year-old who quietly battled depression—a struggle that ended in tragedy. In her beautifully written book, Blackbird: A Mother’s Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide, Betsy invites us into her journey of remembrance, heartbreak, and ultimately, healing. Together, we talk about the raw truth of losing someone who masked their pain behind a smile, the relentless “what ifs,” and the impossible decision to keep living in the aftermath. She shares the quiet bravery of mothering through sorrow—flying across the country to hold Charlie while he cried, learning to speak his name out loud after his passing, and finding purpose through the pain. This episode is for anyone navigating grief, loving someone through their darkness, or trying to understand the invisible weight so many carry. Betsy’s vulnerability is a lifeline. Her story reminds us that depression doesn’t always look like hopelessness—and that healing isn’t about forgetting, but about remembering with intention. We cry. We reflect. We say their names. And in doing so, we offer a powerful reminder: you are not alone. Your grief matters. Your love still has a voice. And even on the hardest days, there is still a path forward. Blackbird is available everywhere books are sold starting April 8th. Please share this episode with someone who needs to know they are seen and never alone. Find out more about Betsy’s story on her site: https://www.blackbirdbetsy.com/ Use code JUDGING at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only. Ready to help your kids grow money skills that will last a lifetime? Just head to acornsearly.com/judging or download the Acorns Early app to get started. Sign up now and your first month is on us! This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #MentalHealthAwareness #GriefJourney #SuicidePrevention #YouAreNotAlone #LossAndHealing #MotherhoodAndGrief #CharliesStory #SpeakTheirName #HopeAfterLoss #BlackbirdMemoir #EndTheStigma #HealingThroughStorytelling #CompassionInGrief #BetsyThibautStephenson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:13:03
• Rebuilding After Abuse: Life After Trauma and Reclaiming Your Power with Survivor, Mother, and Podcaster Vicky Edwards

  Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about domestic abuse, emotional trauma, and financial control. Listener discretion is advised. In this powerful episode of Judging Meghan, I sit down with my dear friend, Vicky Edwards, who opens up about her courageous journey through domestic abuse and the emotional, financial, and psychological toll it took on her. Vicky shares the subtle beginnings of manipulation, the isolation she faced, and the pivotal moments that led to her breaking point. Her raw honesty is a testament to the strength it takes to not only survive but to rebuild from the trauma. Vicky’s story is one of resilience and reclamation of power, showing that even in the darkest times, there is hope. We discuss how the support of close friends, community, and a strong network can make all the difference, and how she’s now giving back by helping others heal. Vicky also shares the inspiration behind her podcast, Life After Divorce, but Funnier, and the trauma support group she co-founded, both of which aim to provide a safe space for others on their healing journeys. If you’re navigating the aftermath of trauma or heartbreak, this episode will serve as a reminder that you are not alone and that healing is not only possible, but it can lead to newfound strength and purpose. Tune in to hear Vicky’s inspiring story of survival, strength, and transformation. And for more, check out her podcast with Jackie Miller: Life After Divorce, but Funnier. Resources: If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, support is available. Please reach out to organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit their website at www.thehotline.org. Tune in to this inspiring conversation about courage, resilience, and the power of community. Let Vicky’s story be a beacon of hope and strength. This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #OvercomingAdversity #motherhood #community #RebuildingAfterAbuse #InspirationalStories #ReclaimingYourPower #LifeAfterDivorceButFunnier #SupportSystem #WomensEmpowerment #VickyEdwards #survivor #HealingAfterTrauma #DomesticAbuseSurvivor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:16:20
• The Ozempic Revolution: The Future of Weight Management with Dr. Alexandra Sowa, Dual Board-Certified Physician, Author, and Founder

  In this episode, I welcome Dr. Alexandra Sowa, a pioneer in obesity medicine and author of The Ozempic Revolution. Her inspiring journey is driven by her family's experience and her mission to provide compassionate, science-backed care. Together, we explore the complexities of weight management, the realities of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Monjauro, and Zepbound, and the importance of a holistic approach to health. We get into the emotional toll of body image, societal pressure, and the ongoing battle many face with their weight. Dr. Alexandra brings clarity and compassion to the subject, addressing the stigma surrounding weight management and the misunderstandings about medication safety. From the challenges of yo-yo dieting to navigating the financial burden of treatment, we tackle it all. But our conversation goes even deeper. We discuss the future of these medications, including emerging oral options and the exciting potential for slowing the progression of diseases like Alzheimer's. We also take a closer look at compounded medications, providing insights into the pros and cons of this approach. While not a one-size-fits-all solution, these treatments represent hope and a significant advancement in longevity medicine. If you've ever struggled with your own health journey, faced judgment, or questioned your treatment options, this episode is for you. Let's break free from the cycle of shame and embrace the power of knowledge and self-care. Tune in for an honest dialogue about healing, acceptance, and the courage to take control of your well-being. Learn more about Alexandra and pre- order her book “The Ozempic Revolution” here: https://alexandrasowamd.com/ This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #WeightManagement #OzempicRevolution #HealthAndWellness #BodyAcceptance #MedicalInsights #ChronicIllnessSupport #GLP1Medications#HolisticHealth #Empowerment #SelfCareJourney #HealthTransformation #MindBodyConnection #DrAlexandraSowa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:02:21
• Standing Up Against Corruption: A Wildlife Biologist’s Fight for Justice with Former DOJ Employee Ben Vizzachero

  Imagine dedicating your life to protecting nature—only to have it ripped away without warning. That’s exactly what happened to today’s guest, Ben Vizzachero, a passionate wildlife biologist employed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) who lost his job in a wave of illegal firings. Despite years of dedication, hard work, promotions, and praise, Ben’s career came to an abrupt halt. In this eye-opening episode, Ben opens up about his journey of resilience. From following his childhood dream of working in wildlife conservation with the Los Padres National Forest to having that dream crushed by an impersonal termination email, his story is one of both devastation and strength. But this isn’t just about one job. It’s about mass layoffs, political recklessness, and the devastating mental and financial toll of being cast aside by a broken system. We dive deep into the real cost of these injustices: the fight to reclaim identity and purpose and the bureaucratic nightmare of standing up against corruption. But through it all, there’s hope. Ben’s story serves as a reminder that when the system fails us, we still have a choice—to fight back, to demand accountability, and to stand on the right side of history. If you’ve ever felt powerless in the face of injustice, this conversation will ignite something in you. It’s time to listen, learn, and take action. You can find Ben here: https://www.instagram.com/territory_ranger/?hl=en  This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #BrokenSystem #SpeakYourTruth #politics #fightingcurroption #resilience #lospadresnationalforest #StayInformed #MakeAnImpact #UseYourVoice #Activism #callyourrepresentatives #justice #WildlifeBiologist #unfairfiring #layoffs #DOJ #BenVizzachero Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:09:57
• The Power of Your Voice: Fighting Misinformation, Empowering Women & Making an Impact with Award-Winning Author and Advocate Robin Finn

  In this episode I welcome back my dear friend Robin Finn for a raw, timely, and empowering conversation in honor of International Women’s Day. As an award winning author, and passionate advocate for women, Robin brings wisdom and fire to a discussion that couldn’t be more relevant. We dive deep into the challenges women face today—navigating political uncertainty, the emotional toll of staying informed, and the struggles of speaking up in a world where misinformation runs rampant. From losing friendships over tough conversations to the everyday impact of rising costs and shifting rights, we uncover what it means to be a woman in these times. But this episode isn’t just about the struggles—it’s about reclaiming our power. How do we balance activism with protecting our mental well-being? How do we turn awareness into action without burning out? And most importantly, how do we ensure our voices are heard when staying silent feels easier? If you’ve ever felt exhausted, unheard, or unsure of how to move forward, this episode is for you. It’s a call to action—to stay informed, think critically, and use your voice fearlessly. Because your story matters. And the world needs to hear it. Tune in now, and let’s start the conversation. Find out more about Robin on her site here https://www.robinfinn.com/ and order her book “Heart. Soul. Pen” now https://www.robinfinn.com/writing-portfolio/  This podcast is a place for trauma survivors as well as their friends and family. This is a safe environment to be vulnerable but it's also a place for celebration and moving forward. Let's all start to embrace who we are becoming by #mentalhealth #selfcare #self #judgingothers #judgingmeghan #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivor #resilience #traumahealing #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcasts #WomenEmpowerment #SpeakYourTruth #RobinFinn #JudgingMeghan #FightingMisinformation #WomenRising #StayInformed #MakeAnImpact #UseYourVoice #AdvocacyMatters #StorytellingForChange #InternationalWomensDay #WomenSupportingWomen #TruthMatters #ResilientWomen #BalancedActivism #HeartSoulPen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  53:52

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