Moms Into Literary Freedom

Trigger warning: SA discussionCourtney and Jennifer continue discussing how the USA hides its empire (with a focus on using oil as thinly veiled excuse for “liberation”) referencing the book “How to Hide an Empire” by Daniel Immerwahr which was covered in the previous episode. But before they do, they catch up on the Duggars (2 sexual predators and counting), Kristi Noem’s husband’s obsession with “bimbofication” despite her best efforts to erase LGBTQ identity, what “SWANA” means and why it matters, and more!(This was recorded a week ago which is like a year ago in today’s f*cked up dimension) Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney tells Jen about the book “How to Hide an Empire” by Daniel Emmerwahr , a very entertaining account of the real role the United States plays around the globe. Emmerwahr’s entertaining and relevant anecdotes subtly distracts the anger readers may feel upon reading the non-whitewashed version of United States’ history and its role in global affairs. Re: Godzilla 🦖 and the forced removal of Micronesians for nuclear testing in the 1940s.Usual tangents include, but are not limited to:* The Epstein files (we won’t stop talking about this)* Religious extremism in the Middle East United States (something about the rapture and don’t forget threatening to kill women who seek reproductive healthcare)* Which conspiracy theories to give credence to (the $21T bunker for the ultra elite) and which ones to ignore (chem trails causing hurricanes)Help us out by interacting with the show however you choose! Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

In today’s hopeful episode, Courtney and Jen discuss to connection between gay hockey romance, the rise in popularity of women’s sports, the slow fall of misogyny, and why Democrats ultimately suck. In their usual round about way, Jen and Courtney use Rachel Reid’s spicy romance novel to discuss visibility for gay sport fans, reminds straight people that sports can be gay, and normalizes love and equality for all!The moral of this episode is: WATCH WOMEN’S SPORTS! You can stream Women’s Professional Hockey League on YouTube here…for free, or on Prime if you’re into that sort of thing. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Join Jen and Courtney as they highlight the most watched Super Bowl show in HISTORY…and we’re not talking about the Puppy Bowl…even though it had nearly 3 times more views than TPUSA’s flop of show. Why Bad Bunny’s legendary half-time show angered the people of the United States more than the fact that we have actual PDFiles running our country, we will never know…But a self-proclaimed statutory 🍇-ist performing in TPUSA’s anti-Superbowl halftime show is irony not lost on Jen and Court. But before they get into Benito’s beautiful moments, they kick-off Black History month with some inspiring Black stories…like the first Black woman, Autumn Lockwood, to coach/win a Super Bowl, and Black figure skater, Surya Bonaly, who probably inspired the movie Blades of Glory by landing an illegal back flip on one foot to defy judge’s racial biases in the 1998 Winter Olympics. However, it wouldn’t be the United States of ‘Merica without egregiously racist acts and legislation put into play by some of the most racist politicians in office: Ron DeSantis and of course, Trump. Although not surprising, coming from a known PDFiler, the posting of the Obama’s as apes in a White House approved video is nothing short of a disgusting and racist move by our disgraceful president during Black History month. While Desantis’ move did not involve portraying Black people as apes, it is no less disgusting. A Florida A&M University College of Law student, Aaliyah Steward, says she was told to strip the word “Black” from promotional flyers for a Black History Month due to the university saying it will be operating in “full compliance” with Desantis’ racist legislation, which prohibist state universities in Florida from using state or federal dollars for programs or activities defined as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The university said it supports free expression and academic inquiry while adhering to the law (so not really). Thanks to @hipmagazineorg for the story. Speaking of Black history, be sure to follow the show to be notified of the next episode covering the highly censored 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones, titled so because the year 1619 marked the year when the first enslaved Africans were brought to Virginia. This project aims to re-examine the legacy of slavery and its impact on the United States and to re-frame the country’s history, to better understand the consequences of slavery and how Black Americans and their contributions are at the center of America’s story, despite the traditional and biased white-washed history we learned in school.But the bulk of this episode is about art and joy, specifically Latino art and joy, as a form of resistance. Ranging from Benito’s symbolic Grammy-gifting to all the baby Baby Bunny’s, the nod to El Apagóns and the gentrification and blackouts Puerto Rico has faced, Ricky Martin’s own “emotional tsunami” of a performance reminding/informing the world about Hawaii’s cultural displacement and Puerto Rico’s resistance to follow in her footsteps, and even the hilarious cameo of Bad Bunny’s biggest fan: Juan Jamón (John Hamm), Courtney and Jen recount all the joy Bad Bunny brought to us this past Sunday evening. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jen take on the children’s picture book Something Happened in Our Town by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, and Ann Hazzard, with illustrations by Jennifer Zivoin.This book cuts through the noise with a rare clarity—offering a way to talk about racial injustice to kids without drowning them in despair. It also exposes a harsh truth: white children often grow up cocooned from these realities in ways children of color never do.Amid these weighty discussions, Jennifer and Courtney find lighter moments such as: If Mad Men were a drink, would it be whiskey? And procedurals like Bones—are they more like wine coolers or Kirkland Light? And why must significant others be so judgy about the TV shows we like?It’s near impossible to unpack every crisis swirling around us today, but this episode’s mantra seems to be: “Know better, do better.” Keep those tough conversations alive about the value of every life, and keep pushing back against the idea that white lives hold more worth than Black, Brown, Indigenous, or any other lives. In 2026 alone, at least 9 people have lost their lives due to the Trump administration’s illegal and inhumane policies. Say their names just as much as you say the names of Pretti and Renee Good, and if you don’t know them, educate yourself: Keith Porter, Geraldo Lunas Campos, Victor Manuel Diaz, Parady La, Luis Beltran Yanez–Cruz, Heber Sanchez Dominguez, and Luis Gustavo Nunez Caceres.If this episode resonates, share it, rate it, or give us a shout out. If not, well—there’s always something else to listen to.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.Sources: Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Listen in as Jennifer and Courtney sit down to talk with this book’s amazing and inspiring author, Elisa Stone Leahy. Topics range from silencing the loud minority (Moms for Liberty) 🤡, the importance of amplifying stories anonymously 📣, the dangers of quiet censorship 🤫, and the power of reading 📖. Why are bestsellers always about things like dogs 🐶 and dragons 🐉 ? Nothing against books about dogs or dragons…We love them! ❤️ But we have to wonder…Why do books that spotlight sensitive topics, (like a 7th grader juggling the science fair 🔭 , challenging relationships with friends 👯‍♀️ and family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, and looming deportation threats by ICE 🧊) more often find themselves on the “banned” list, and not the “bestseller” list? 📚And no, it’s not because kids do not find these books relatable… “Tethered to Other Stars” has the awards🏆 to prove that:* Garden State Book Award Nominee for Fiction (Grades 6-8) (2026)* CYBILS Award Nominee for Middle Grade Fiction (2023)Young readers (and their adults!) need books like “Tethered to Other Stars” now more than ever…If not to serve as mirrors 🪞 that support their own experiences, then as windows 🪟 to help build empathy ❤️ and awareness 🧐 for others. 🚨What can YOU do?🚨✅ Request "Tethered to Other Stars” at your local library, ✅ your kids school library, and ✅ buy it from your local bookstore! Don’t have a local bookstore? Buy it here! Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney tells Jennifer about the 1954 Guatemalan coup and how the United States’ was involved…Spoiler alert…They weren’t great. Let’s be honest, 2026 is shaping up to be a real doozy…why not start it out with an informational podcast about the history of United States corruption? Remember, knowledge is power and reading is resistance. Tune in to learn how the United States used bananas as an excuse 72 years ago and how they’re using cocaine as an excuse now. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer tells Courtney about the eerie similarities between ICE’s perpetual torment on America’s migrant community and the YA novel Tethered to Other Stars by Elisa Stone Leahy…A book that you’d be hard pressed to find in the public school libraries of today’s ‘Merica.The book follows seventh grader, Wendy Toledo, as she navigates the nuances of friends, bullies, and science fairs, while also trying to make sense of the woman hiding out from ICE in her local church…as well as her own family’s “legal status”.Despite its similarities, there are a few major differences between this novel and today’s reality…one being that people can no longer seek sanctuary in a church. There aren’t many places that the Proud Boys, I mean ICE, won’t illegally enter to kidnap you.Something that hasn’t changed, though, is church support. Many (not all) churches across the country are offering their assistance with securing food, housing, education, employment to people impacted by Trump’s secret polICE.In addition to concrete support, many churches are sending messages that advocate for “meaningful immigration reform,” and call for an end to “dehumanizing rhetoric and violence” through their nativity scenes. See zip-tied Baby Jesus below (on Substack):This particular scene was put together by volunteers at Lake Street Church in Evanston, Il, and serves as a reminder that Jesus himself was a brown-skinned immigrant.Listen to the whole episode to hear more on Trump’s Secret PolICE and their worsening agenda to rid our country of the very people who helped build it, but also some good news stories of people like us who see the seriousness of fighting back. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

In honor of the Wampanoag’s selfless aid in helping the wildly unprepared pilgrims not starve to death, Courtney tells Jennifer about the children’s book Keepunumuk by Danielle Hill, Alexis Bunten, Anthony Perry, and Gary Meeches, Sr. This award winning Wampanoag story is told in a Native tradition to Maple and Quill, two indigenous children who are listening to their grandmother tell the story of Weeâchumun (corn) and what really happened at the first “Thanksgiving”. But that’s just the first 20 minutes.The remainder of the episode includes Courtney breaking down the history of words like landlord, bourgeoisie, and proletariat. Jennifer helps Courtney explain, in plain terms, how feudalism led to capitalism, and how Karl Marx’s communism has been misappropriated by Stalin and continues to be misappropriated by Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis, with his requirement of the one-sided teaching of “dangerous communist” curricula. Tune in to hear how Jennifer and Courtney connect Marx and Engel’s views on a class-less state with the decolonization of stolen lands. ✨ Action steps:* Email your school district 🏫 demanding (nicely) to stock the books that really matter. 🙌 Customize this K-8 letter or this 9-12 letter based on which state you live, and which books have been banned!👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Exclusive Zoom invites to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what we’re all thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month.Sources:* https://revisesociology.com/2015/11/24/why-marxism-is-still-relevant-today/* https://www.fldoe.org/newsroom/latest-news/state-board-of-education-approves-new-history-of-communism-standards-.stml* https://www.splcenter.org/resources/extremist-files/prageru/* https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/friedrich-engels.asp Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Instead of a book, Courtney tells Jennifer about the new Paul Thomas Anderson movie, One Battle After Another, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Chase Infiniti…all celebrities whose names Courtney could not recall. 😂 But this episode isn’t about those kind of celebrities. Without revealing any spoilers, Courtney gives Jennifer a very sloppy synopsis of the movie, while pondering things like whether or not Sean Penn’s character (Col. “Lockjaw”) was partially inspired by Ron DeSantis (since they both probably wear shoe lifts and have racist tendencies). 👢But the real meat of this episode comes from conversations about how Epstein’s emails sparked rumors about Clinton and Trump’s alleged sexual relations…and the power that sex has. 📧From bad ass women using sex as a weapon of resistance to white supremacists succumbing to sex as their number one weakness…Sex can make even the most powerful of men abandon their purity scruples…But only the ones about being heterosexual, since the ones about r*ping children didn’t exist in the first place.(And yes, 14 year olds are children, and having sex with them is r*pe.)✨ Action steps:* Donate to Lavonnia’s GoFundMe to help her relocate to be a librarian again!* Email your school district 🏫 demanding (nicely) to stock the books that really matter. 🙌 Customize this K-8 letter or this 9-12 letter based on which state you live, and which books have been banned!👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Exclusive Zoom invites to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what we’re all thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month.Sources:https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/epstein-bubba-trump-blowing/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-10-01/one-battle-after-another-meets-the-moment-of-trump-politics-political-violencehttps://www.history.com/articles/how-the-nazis-were-inspired-by-jim-crowhttps://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/10/31/desantis-boots-shoemakers-00121044 Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney tells Jennifer the ENTIRE plot of 1984 by George Orwell. Spoilers and all. She can’t help it…there are just too many comparisons to draw between Big Brother and the United States government. “Doublethink” is a very important concept in the book that can be seen on a daily occurrence in our new authoritarian America. It’s basically like telling someone it is raining while pissing on their leg. Today, it can be applied to the millions of MAGA followers who will be told that Trump is in the Epstein files but will simultaneously refuse to believe it, holding onto their unwavering support despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. This contradiction allows them to maintain loyalty and trust in their chosen leader while dismissing inconvenient truths, perfectly embodying the unsettling power of doublethink in shaping perception and reality.Thanksgiving baskets, AI, the destruction of the orgasm, and Trump’s golden ballroom are just a few of the topics that Jennifer and Courtney cover to draw parallels between 1984 by George Orwell and American Fascism by MAGA. Yes, it is a long one, but there are just so many comparisons to make…you’d be surprised…Or maybe you wouldn’t be.View on milf4books.substack.com for clickable links.✨ Action steps:* Donate to Lavonnia’s GoFundMe to help her relocate to be a librarian again!* Email your school district 🏫 demanding (nicely) to stock the books that reallymatter. 🙌 Customize this K-8 letter or this 9-12 letter based on which state you live, and which books have been banned!👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Exclusive Zoom invites to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what we’re all thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month.Sources:https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/fact-check-cheaper-walmart-thanksgiving-meal-touted-by-trump-has-fewer-items-than-last-year-s/ar-AA1PXOpKhttps://www.msn.com/en-us/entertainment/general/lakewood-church-responds-to-tiktok-series-asking-for-baby-formula/ar-AA1QfCqOhttps://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/exclusive-trump-administration-holds-situation-room-meeting-over-house-effort-to-force-release-of-all-of-doj-s-epstein-files/ar-AA1QiWQ6 Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer listen to Lavonnia Moore’s story about being targeted by the “Alliance for Faith and Family” over allowing volunteers to include a children’s book about Trans visibility in a library display.The Alliance for Faith and Family is a small off-shoot of the hate group Moms for Liberty, which has been labelled an “extremist” organization connected to “hate groups” like the Proud Boys by civil-rights watchdog, Southern Poverty Law Center.One quick perusal of their website and it is crystal clear that the Alliance of “Faith and Family” neither puts their faith in the inclusive teachings of Christ (re: Matthew 22:39 when he literally says “Love your friggin’ neighbor”), nor does it promote freedom for families, unless they are straight and evangelical like them. Listen to Lavonnia tell us the whole story on your favorite platform…We’re literally everywhere, even Spotify! (Even though they suck for many reasons…one of them being that they stream ICE recruitment ads. Maybe we should boycott…)✨ Action steps: * Donate to Lavonnia’s GoFundMe to help her relocate to be a librarian again!* Email your school district 🏫 demanding (nicely) to stock the books that really matter. 🙌 Customize this K-8 letter or this 9-12 letter based on which state you live, and which books have been banned!👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Exclusive Zoom invites to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what we’re all thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month.Sources:https://www.splcenter.org/resources/extremist-files/moms-liberty/https://allianceforfaithandfamily.com/f/okrls-major-concernshttps://www.gofundme.com/f/help-lavonnia-moore-seek-justice-and-equality Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

This was recorded three weeks ago, but the government is STILL shutdown so it is unfortunately, still relevant. In this episode, we cover the YA novel Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi. Winning several awards, including Chicago Public Library’s Best of the Best, Yolk is a beautiful and accurate account of sisterhood, American healthcare, toxic relationships, eating disorders, and so much more. We do not believe in spoiling books, so you’ll have to read this one yourself, but you will not regret it! To us, Yolk is a window offering a beautiful glimpse into Korean familial culture…leaving us yet again mystified at is censorship. A cautionary tale to some and a lifeline to others, this book does nothing other than equip its readers with empowerment to seek mental healthcare while providing them with a sense of belonging and understanding. Why was it banned? Who the hell knows anymore. It could be due to the realistic depictions of bulimia, but then that would also include the inspiring journey to recovery. Or could it be the potentially triggering descriptions of SA? Then it would have to include the fact that survivors are being provided with visibility and empowerment to seek healing. I suppose it could even be from the inevitable consequences of abusing drugs and alcohol, but… do the “Moms for Liberty” actually think that reading about vomiting in front of your crush will encourage you to drink?Just kidding, we know that don’t do real thinking. ✨ Action step: Email your school district 🏫 demanding (nicely) to stock the books that really matter. 🙌 Customize this K-8 letter or this 9-12 letter based on which state you live, and which books have been banned!👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Exclusive Zoom invites to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what we’re all thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month.Sources:ICE officer caught on video pushing woman is placed on leaveICE office who attacked woman is reinstatedVideo shows ICE with 5-year-old girl while agents attempt to arrest her fatherChicago South Shore building residents recount ‘humiliating’ ICE raidFormer Texas megachurch pastor Robert Morris pleads guilty to child sex abuse charges | PBS NewsRepublican legislator in South Carolina agrees to plead guilty to child sexual abuse imagery chargesRoger Goodell: NFL won’t reconsider Bad Bunny SB halftime show - ESPN Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer are thrilled to sit down with Mrs. Frazzled 👩🏻‍🏫 …even though Jennifer’s 🎙️ was dead the whole time… 🤦🏻‍♀️ We promise we weren’t ignoring her! Regardless, these three woke book lovers 📚 had a wonderful conversation about public education, activism, butts 🍑, and even sexy shoulders.Show Notes:Listen 🎧 to her podcast with Mrs. Redacted: Teacher Quit TalkCheck out this adorable children’s book: “I can’t wait to vote!” by Tiffany Lanier ✨ Action step: Email your school district 🏫 demanding (nicely) to stock the books that really matter. 🙌 Customize this K-8 letter or this 9-12 letter based on which state you live, and which books have been banned!👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Exclusive Zoom invites to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what we’re all thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer review and read "A Map for Falasteen" by Maysa Odeh, a poignant and relevant story about a little girl named "Falasteen" who cannot find her home, Palestine, on a school map. Based on a true story, Falasteen learns about her homeland's heart-wrenching history as her family gives her hope and courage to help keep her country and its people's live on in her even as people try to erase them. This episode is safe for little ears. Buy the book here!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney sits down with Karen from Defense of Democracy to discuss the up and coming Banned Books Week! 📚Join the Defense of Democracy October 5–11 for free Readout Sessions where you can dive into discussions about banned books.👉 Register at defenseofdemocracy.org/readout✅ Registration is free💪 Donations welcome — every dollar helps fight censorship and defend democracy against today’s authoritarian threats.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney sits down with Oklahoma AP Government teacher Aaron Baker to unpack the curious details of Trump’s “God Bless America” Bible. From its leather binding to the inclusion of Lee Greenwood’s lyrics, they explore this troubling addition to public schools. Most notably, they dig into the confusing and controversial decision to include the Three-Fifths Compromise. If you’re not sure what that means, don’t worry—Aaron breaks it down with the clarity of a master teacher, explaining not only what the compromise was, but why its presence in a modern Bible...that is present in a public classroom...is so unsettling. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Don't miss your chance to join in on a book discussion with Courtney and Jennifer AND author, ASHLEY HOPE PEREZ on October 6th, at 6:00 pm EST. For Banned Books week, and in collaboration with Defense of Democracy, they are inviting YOU to a discussion with Ashley Hope Perez about her award-winning and censored historical fiction: "Out of Darkness". Sign up FOR FREE here: https://givebutter.com/outofdarkness (Donations greatly appreciated and go towards Defense of Democracy, not MILF4books).Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer have BIG news! On Oc. 6th at 6 pm EST, they are honored to host their very first Book Club WITH author, ASHLEY HOPE PEREZ! For Banned Books week, and in collaboration with Defense of Democracy, they are inviting YOU to join them in a discussion with Ashley Hope Perez about her award-winning and censored historical fiction: "Out of Darkness". Sign up FOR FREE here: https://givebutter.com/outofdarkness (Donations are optional but greatly appreciated and go towards Defense of Democracy, not MILF4books).Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Jennifer and Courtney celebrate the power of trans visibility with a discussion of Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas (starting around the 58 minute mark). Before lifting up this groundbreaking YA urban fantasy, they confront the devastating and recent gun violence and the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s death—naming the hateful rhetoric he and the MAGA movement have fueled for far too long. Sources:Cemetery Boys by Aiden ThomasRewards, Reviews, Challenges Parents of children killed in Annunciation Catholic school shooting speak out - ABC NewsEvergreen High School shooting victims remain hospitalized; one's condition improvesCharlie Kirk shooting suspect is in custody. Here's what we know about the investigation. - CBS NewsSean Watmore PoetryTyler Robinson: Groyper, Nick Fuentes | Charlie Kirk ShooterCharlie Kirk has a history of violent and bigoted rhetoric. He was the first guest on California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s podcast. | Media Matters for AmericaMurder and Extremism in the United States in 2022 | ADLFar-right anti-immigration protests in London lead to clashes with police | CNNTommy Robinson Invokes Charlie Kirk's Murder For Major Far-Right Rally - NewsweekTwo Black Men Found Hanging in Mississippi Hours Apart6 HBCUs Were On Lockdown Following ‘Terroristic Threats’ After Charlie Kirk’s DeathFrom Lynchings to “Alligator Alcatraz”: Smiling at Suffering in the Name of God and CountryTeachers face discipline for Charlie Kirk comments | Jacksonville TodayBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, Jen and Courtney review just a few of today’s overwhelming—and unacceptable—world events before turning the discussion towards the Tulsa Race Massacre and Blackbirds in the Sky by award-winning author Brandy Colbert. (The book discussion starts around the 39 minute mark.)World topics range from the Gaza-bound Flotilla, who refuse to be intimidated by Israeli drone strikes as they attempt to deliver food, baby formula, and medicine to besieged and deliberately starved Palestinians, to the “Unconscionably Irreconcilable” SCOTUS decision permitting the racial profiling of Hispanic people. See sources below for more topics discussed. Please note: This episode was recorded on September 9, 2025—before the death of Charlie Kirk. We will discuss this in our next full episode. Sources:Palestinian authors grapple with a wave of censorshipBuy Blackbirds in the Sky by Brandy ColbertThat in turn led to Lee asking: “Do you know what the Tulsa race massacre is?” McMahon replied: “I’d like to look into it more.”Why Trump’s ‘anti-woke’ attack on the Smithsonian matters | Kimberlé Crenshaw and Jason Stanley | The GuardianFootage shows second claimed attack on Greta Thunberg Gaza flotillaChristian Smalls (United States) - Freedom FlotillaOperation Warp Speed - WikipediaTrump calls Florida's vaccine mandate elimination a 'tough stance' | Fox NewsTrump's 'Chipocalypse Now' is no joke, though it absolutely sounds like oneTrump rebrands Department of Defense as Department of War Hundreds of struggling Arkansas farmers ask federal government to save themBefore-and-after photos show changes Trump has made to the White House decor, so far‘Most expensive gardeners in history’: What the National Guard are doing in DCBaltimore Mayor Brandon Scott discusses how the city has brought violent crime downJudge Rules that Trump Deployment of National Guard to LA was IllegalSotomayor Blasts Supreme Court's 'Unconscionably Irreconcilable' Decision - NewsweekSupreme Court lifts restrictions on LA immigration stops set after agents swept up US citizens - OPBU.S.-born American citizen under ICE hold in Florida after driving from GeorgiaMore than 300 Koreans detained by ICE at Georgia Hyundai plant heading home - CBS NewsTrump vowed to deport the 'worst of the worst' -- but new data shows a shift to also arresting non-criminals - ABC News"Undocumented immigrants have substantially lower crime rates than native-born citizens and legal immigrants across a range of felony offenses."NRA says it opposes idea of banning transgender Americans from owning guns | CNN PoliticsMap of Countries That Have Stopped Weapons Exports to Israel - NewsweekUAE warns White House that Israeli annexations could unravel Abraham AccordsExplainer-Was the deadly US attack on the Venezuelan vessel legal? By ReutersThe Voice of Hind Rajab - Where to Watch and Stream - TV GuideBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer and Courtney look for 🌈 rainbows in the storm ⛈️ of LGBTQ+ erasure stirred up by the bloated orange Fanta himself 🍊👀. From rainbow-chalk resistance 🖍️🌈 at the DeSantis-erased Pulse memorial 🕯️, to lawsuits ⚖️🔥 torching the unconstitutional bans on gender-affirming care 🏳️‍⚧️💊—and, because it’s Florida 🐊☀️, an alligator 🐊 and Jello gender reveal 🎉🍮—they spotlight resilience 💪, resistance ✊, and joy 😍, topped off with a heartwarming 💖 read of When Aidan Became a Brother 🌈📖 by Kyle Lukoff and Kaylani Juanita.In this episode, Jennifer and Courtney discuss 📚 the recent court ruling about Florida’s Book Banning/“Don’t Say Gay” Law 🏛️🌈:👉 On August 13, 2025, a federal court struck down key parts of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” HB 1060 law, saying books can’t be banned just for including LGBTQ+ content 🚫📖.👉 That doesn’t automatically put books like When Aidan Became a Brother 👦🏳️‍🌈 back on shelves, but it gives parents, students, and teachers stronger legal ground ✊ to fight for them.👉 It’s a big reminder of why intellectual freedom matters 🗽 and why students should be able to read diverse stories 🌍📚.✨ Action step: Check with your child’s school media specialist 🏫—do they have this book? If not, ask them to get it! 🙌👣 Follow @milf4books on IG, Threads and Bluesky and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🎙️ Ad-free episodes + uncut interviewsHear the full story — no ads, no edits, no compromises.🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Monthly Zoom invite to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what you're really thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Join our Patreon...Or, rate, review & subscribe wherever you listen!Jennifer and Courtney look for rainbows in the storm of LGBTQ+ erasure stirred up by the bloated orange Fanta himself. From rainbow-chalk resistance at the Desantis-erased Pulse memorial to lawsuits torching the unconstitutional bans on gender-affirming care—and, because it’s Florida, an alligator and Jello gender reveal—they spotlight resilience, resistance, and joy, topped off with a heartwarming read of When Aidan Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff and Kaylani Juanita.Regarding the recent court ruling about Florida’s Book Banning/Don’t Say Gaw Law:On August 13, 2025, a federal court struck down key parts of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” HB 1060 law, saying books can’t be banned just for including LGBTQ+ content.That doesn’t automatically put books like When Aidan Became a Brother back on shelves, but it gives parents, students, and teachers stronger legal ground to fight for them.It’s a big reminder of why intellectual freedom matters and why students should be able to read diverse stories.Action step: Check with your child’s school media specialist—do they have this book? If not, ask them to get it!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Join the MILFia!Courtney and Jen sit down with @missannie.schoolcounselor to hear her story about being fired for being an ally. How dare Miss Annie give LGBTQ students a sense of belonging and self worth?! From imposter syndrome to feminist nuns, they dive into the messy intersections of faith, education, and advocacy—proving that creating safe spaces for kids is always worth the fight.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Join our Patreon so we can start a monthly Book Club!Get ready for the third and final Hunger Games episode. Courtney and Jennifer have already compared Panem to America, President Snow to Netanyahu/Trump, and now it's time to draw some parallels between President Snow and AOC…Yes, they went there. Using The Mockingjay (Book 3 of Suzanne Collins’ YA dystopia) as a lens, they explore performative leadership and the complicated dynamics of rebellion by trying to make sense of AOC's most recent vote in favor of defensive military aid to Israel. Do today's "disruptive" political figures mirror the Capitol’s tactics more than they’d like to admit?Sources:Why Did Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Vote Against Cutting US Aid To Israel? NYC Rep Issues ExplanationCongressional Democrats criticized for wearing Kente cloth at event honoring George Floyd | CNN Politics2 Israeli startup entrepreneurs played roles in rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez | The Times of IsraelBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Join our Patreon so we can start a monthly Book Club!Courtney and Jennifer have a lot to catch up on — from Trump’s cankles and Netflix’s “woke” reboot of The Babysitter’s Club to the chaos of K-Pop Demon Hunters and the great Coldplay scandal of 2025 (don’t worry, they have opinions).But things get serious when they dive into the heart of this episode: a raw, unapologetic comparison between President Snow, the fictional fascist of The Hunger Games, mass-murder, Benjamin Netanyahu and our very own fascist-in-chief, Donald Trump.Using Catching Fire (Book 2 of Suzanne Collins’ YA dystopia) as a lens, they explore themes of propaganda, collective punishment, media control, and the weaponization of fear — and what happens when truth becomes a casualty of power.If you're ready for dystopian fiction meets disturbing reality (with a side of pop culture chaos), this episode is for you.Donate to AT LEAST one of these GoFundMesShow Notes:Netflix’s Baby-Sitters Club Stuck to the Books by Staying Woke | ObserverAdvocates Warn Arizona Woman Could Die of Cancer If She’s Not Released from ICE Jail Democracy Now!Donald Trump's Biggest Allies Split With Him Over Jeffrey Epstein - NewsweekIsrael-Palestine war: Why fans are comparing the new Hunger Games film to the war in Gaza | Middle East EyeTrump Administration Will Burn 500 Tons of Food Meant to Feed 1.5 Million ChildrenTrump's CanklesTrump Denies Graphic Epstein Letter by Saying He's 'Never' Doodled. Then His Past Drawings ResurfaceMAGA Church Leader Charged with Sexually Abusing Children - NewsweekBook Banner Faces Child Molestation Charges15-year-old boy ended up in Alligator Alcatraz | Miami HeraldBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Join our Patreon page so we can do monthly book clubs!In this episode, Courtney and Jennifer talk about Ruby Bridges (and how the Secretary of Education/Human Garbage Pail did not know who she is), tacky coffee mugs, gun control, Trump's $6B Ed funding freeze, Norman Rockwell, the KKK, and Lexus-driving white moms drinking coffee (its all connected, we swear). Subscribe to the @MILF4Books YouTube page to see the terrible mug Courtney is drinking her coffee from. A woman who called a Black child a slur has raised a backlash but also thousands of dollars |AP NewsLinda McMahon Doesn't Know About Tulsa Or Ruby Bridges?Parents criticize Ruby Bridges book in debate over CRT, Tenn. curriculumFrazzled about Education: What the "One Big Beautiful Bill" Means for Education and FamiliesSchool Funding Map Shows States Most Impacted by Trump Freeze - Newsweek5 Star Story! Gov. Stein vetoes anti-DEI and transgender rights bills in North Carolina | AP NewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

IMPORTANT EDIT AT THE ENDWhat if dystopia isn’t just fiction? While “dystopia” means an imagined world, the themes in The Hunger Games—oppression, inequality, and state control—feel eerily familiar in our real world. From Venezuela distributing food only to government loyalists, to North Korea’s blackout zones outside Kim Jong Un’s elite capital, to the U.S. tax code favoring the ultra-wealthy under legislation like Trump’s “Big Egregious Bill”—real-life echoes of Panem are everywhere. In this episode, Jen and Courtney explore how The Hunger Games mirrors reality—and why that might be the reason it’s one of the most frequently challenged books of this century. Tune in and decide for yourself.SourcesEdit: Courtney describes Katniss as a tribute from District 11, we know she is actually from District 12, but Courtney is a New Hunger Games fan, so give her grace. ;)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Happy Pride Month! How does the Stonewall Uprising connect to Musk and Trump’s public break-up, unlawful ICE raids, cults, and the NY election fraud lawsuit? Tune in to find out!Sources: Cafe ResistanceOutrage and solidarity after ICE raid shakes South Park restaurantImmigration Detention MapAndry Hernandez Romero: Gay asylum seeker deported to prison built for gang members prompts outcry in WeHo | FOX 11 Los AngelesCar Windows Smashed in Violent ICE Arrests: Communities Rally for Union Activists Alfredo 'Lelo' Juarez and Lewelyn Dixon Fighting for Farmworker Rights : r/EyesOnIceElon Musk goes on a warpath against Trump and the GOP ‘Nearly three quarters of Orthodox voters supported Trump’ - The Jewish ChronicleThe Preamble | Sharon McMahonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Happy Pride Month! Courtney and Jennifer kick off Pride month by covering the banned children’s book “Stonewall. A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution” by Rob Sanders. * How does the Stonewall Uprising relate to unlawful ICE raids?* Could Trump be a secure gay man in another timeline?* Did Musk steal the election for Trump?To find out, listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts!👂Listen: linktr.ee/milf4books📺 Watch: YouTube.com/milf4books👣 Follow @milf4books on IG and @momsintoliteraryfreedom on TikTok✨ What You Get When You Join the MILFia on Patreon:By supporting us on Patreon, you get access to exclusive perks that bring you deeper into the conversation — and help us keep making content that matters:🎙️ Ad-free episodes + uncut interviewsHear the full story — no ads, no edits, no compromises.🗣️ A voice in what we cover nextVote on upcoming banned books, themes, and deep dives.📚 Monthly Zoom invite to the MILFia Book ClubRaw, real discussions about the books they don’t want us reading.☕️👚 First dibs on our handmade, snarky merchThink mugs and tees that say what you're really thinking.➕ Bonus episodes connecting today’s politics to banned historyBecause history repeats itself — unless we call it out.💬 Direct access to usQ&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and community chats with Courtney and Jennifer.→ Join us on Patreon — starts at just $5/month. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

This episode probably should have been a two-parter but what's done is done. Join Courtney and Jennifer as they spend almost 2 hours diving into the three major "Caste" systems in the world: Karmic reincarnation in India, Aryan Supremacy in the Third Reich, and enslavement in United States (and its present-day effects). Courtney tells Jennifer about the EIGHT pillars of Caste, that Isabel Wilkerson so beautifully and extensively researched as commonalities for Caste systems around the world. In short, read this book for a detailed look into how and why people suck, and what we can do together to not suck so much! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer cover the graphic novel adaptation of Anne Frank, which is banned in multiple states, with one case resulted in the firing of an 8th grade teacher thanks to the hate group, Moms for Liberty. Why? Anne describes a vulva with extensive biological accuracy...You'd think we would be supporting this kind of education considering 61% of people cannot accurately identify a vulva on a diagram. But that's not what this episode is about. It's about the importance of bearing witness through literature—especially when the story belongs to a child whose life was stolen by genocide. It's about connecting the past to the present. Because today, children are still dying in genocides—in the Middle East and Africa. Most notably, in Gaza, where over 100 children are estimated to die each day as the U.S. continues to support Israel's devastating use of force and blockade tactics that amount to starvation and occupation.The death of a child is the death of infinite possibility. We must read these stories. We must teach them. And we must refuse to look away.SourcesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jen sit down with local friend and Genz for Change Activist, Jack Petocz, who had his beginnings as a high school student known for organizing the group: "Recall FCSB" (Flagler County School Board) after school board member Janet McDonald censored him for calling out her racist, anti-semtic, and homophobic rhetoric. Later, Jack organized a protest against another school board member, Jill Woolbright, for filing a police report against a media specialist who had the book All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson in their library. This award-winning Black queer memoir was feautured in Courtney and Jen's first episode of the MILF4Books podcast. Since then, Jack has continued fighting injustices as a member of GenZ for Change, a non-profit advocacy organization,  that uses the digital sphere to promote civil discource and civil action for issues including but not limited to genocide in Gaza, the attack on reproductive rights, the lack of LGBTQ, racial and immigration justice, and more. This episode, Jack features their most recent inititiaive, FIGHT, which YOU can be apart of! Tune in to learn more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jen talk about previous books they have covered on this podcast such as The Nowhere Girls by Amy Reed, and how they related to sexual assault for Sexual Assault Awareness month (even though that was in April and it is already May). They are *winning* at the podcasting game. In this episode, instead of talking about a new banned book, they discuss the bigots that should be banned and why it is so important NOT to stay quiet in these unprecedented times.Join the MILFia today!SourcesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer and Courtney sit down with Somatic Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Holly Richmond to discuss all the things SEX. Topics include but are not limited to: How long penile penetration should last (the answer may surprise you!), why douche's are bad in practice but good for namecalling, how to talk to adolescents about masturbation (and the book "We Need to Talk about Vaginas" by Dr. Allison K Rodgers), and the importance of services for sexual assault survivors that are quickly and quietly being defunded by Trump and his MAGAts. Buy Dr. Richmond's book: Reclaiming Pleasure: A Sex-Positive Guide for Moving Past Sexual Trauma and Living a Passionate Life here.SourcesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

RFK's "Nazi-shaped" autism registry, his grift about removing food dyes (and the FDA inspectors who regulate them), Pam Bondi's explicit threat to "come after" judges (and the arrest of one!). These are just some of Trump's most recent attempts at authoritarianism that Jennifer and Courtney discuss. Tune in to hear how it all realtes to unlawful deportations, Japanese internment camps and the 2022 children's book "Love in the Library" written by Maggie Tokuda-Hall and illustrated by Yas Imamura. Talking about Trump's abuse of power with your friends, family, and even neighbors, will WEAKEN his abuse of power! Erica Chenoweth, a political scientist, determined that just 3.5% of the population actively participating in nonviolent protests can result it serious political change. If you can't make it to a protest, download the 5 calls app. If you can't do that, help your neighbor. We're in this together, and if you need some inpso, check out this video of people forming a human-chain to protect their neighbor from ICE.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer sit down with Reconciler singer and guitarist Joseph Lazzari to talk about Katy Perry "taking up MORE space", how punk music has always known the truth, and how their song "Love Song for the End Times" pairs perfectly with her cringey rant about love connection and daisies. Sources: Who is Amanda Ngyuen? Wendy's wants to send Katy Perry back to space Trump Admin fires Women in STEM Buy Reconciler Music and Merch here Check out Joseph's awesome pink triceratops sculpture (and more) hereBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Dem Rep. Lauren Simmons showed stunning levels of patience as she gently explained "intersex" to Republican Rep. Andy Hopper…and he still couldn’t grasp anything beyond the “biblical” definition of gender as he defended cutting university LGBTQ+ programs. If only there were books that we could read to educate us on the matter…Oh wait, there are! Join Jennifer and Courtney as they discuss multiple novels Rep. Hopper could read to inform himself on the complex spectrum of sex, including Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jen and Courtney discuss Senator Booker’s historical “filibuster”, why it wasn’t actually a filibuster, how much “good” it did, where Booker would fit in “Stamped for Kids” by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds and the amazing victory in WI! They also talk about boobs in congress, empty bribes in parenting, Musk needing a spanking, and what the dems need to do to prepare for the 2026 midterms…Spoiler: It’s NOT taking the high road.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jen celebrate the end of Women’s History Month by spotlighting the book Speak by Laurie Halse Andseron. This award-winning YA novel was banned 14 times since its debut in 1999 because it made male students feel “uncomfortable”...But when Big Boy Pete Hegseth, Our Orange Oligarchian, and his strange side-kick/Deputy Dictator make us feel uncomfortable, they don’t get banned, they get to…put national safety at risk by accidentally texting sensitive war plans to who the hell knows, illegally dismantle the Dept of Ed in a not-so-secret attempt to privatize education, and take away social security because we belong to the “parasite class”? It’s no secret that we live in a society where the toxic behavior of boys and men towards girls and women is not only rampant but expected. Yet, we are reading, resisting, and inviting you to join us. Women are bravely SPEAKING up with SA allegations against the misogynists in Capitol Hill, (the Orange Oligarchian has 27 alone) so we are speaking up too. And like Melinda learns in Speak: “Don’t expect to make a difference unless you speak up for yourself.” Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney &Jen talk about strategies for preserving mental health while living under an orange-monster fueled oligarchy, including but not limited to: Identifying and boycotting certain vices while still finding time for "little treats" Celebrating victories (Such as 17 states dropping the case of removing 504 accommodations and $2 billion of USAID getting released to countries in need) Re-watching 90s prime time dramas (like Buffy!) Reading books that bring you joy Listen in as Jen tells Courtney how things like Trump's lack of gun control,the fight for reproductive rights, & the dismantling of public education relate to banned books, specifically  Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult, and how READING these books could lead us towards a better tomorrow. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney and Jennifer took a brief hiatus to process the beginning of the "Trusk" regime, but it will take more than a government coup to stop them from resisting! In honor of Black History Month and with the help of a special guest and theology expert, "Tam-Tam", they break down the meaning and significance of Martin Luther King Jr's "Letter from Birmingham Jail" and why facists might not want our students to read it.  It's okay if you don't know anything about how Nebuchenezzer, Socrates, or Gerrymandering relates to today's oligarchy, or how it will ultimately lead to tyranny...we will learn about it together...because the antitidote to tyranny is education and the cultivation of citizens who can resist manipulation and economic exploitation. They WANT us to feel overwhelmed, but remember, if a lot of us resist a little bit, then that results in a lot of resistance! So, join us in resisting racism, transphobia, and the Trusk-ian rhetoric, so we can continue to take steps towards a better tomorrow.  Sources: LISTEN: “Letter From Birmingham Jail” - Pass The Mic  Florida again tops the nation in school book removals, according to a report | WUSF Shakespeare and Martin Luther King Jr. make the list of troublesome works in Nottoway County schools Which books are allowed? Varied interpretations of Florida law lead to confusion at schools Ron DeSantis invokes Martin Luther King Jr in ‘Stop Woke Act’ proposal against critical race theory | The Independent Judge Blocks Part of Florida's 'Stop WOKE Act': A Closer Look - The Law Firm of Douglas G. JacksonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

TW: Courtney inadvertently creates uncomfortable imagery of Elon Musk bribing one of his flight attendants with a horse while exposing himself. Courtney and Jennifer make comparisons between Trump and his picks to the antagonistic sexual predators in books, including banned "The Nowhere Girls" by Amy Reed and "The Luis Ortega Survival Club" by Sonora Reyes.  Action Items: Find Your Senator and tell them NOT TO CONFIRM: The alleged rapist and anti-woman in combat PETE HEGSETH for Defense Secretary The alleged child molestation-enabler WWE executive Linda McMahon for Secretary of Education The alleged horse-bribing genital flasher Elon Musk for the unchecked "DOGE" position "Dear ___, as a constituent, I am urging you NOT to confirm these nomincations as they send a message that women are not valued and that not only is sexual misconduct tolerated but it is rewarded. Text JUDGES to 63033 to email your senators about confirming judges NOW. Sources: The Cut: Trump’s Cabinet Picks Are Revenge for Me Too Elon Musk’s transgender daughter, in first interview, says he berated her  WATCH: Linda McMahon slapping daughter in WWE video Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer and Courtney are back after taking some time off to process Trump securing his place as the greatest cult leader in history, winning over devoted fans who continue to vote against their own interests. This episode covers A LOT...but not a book (that's next). Courtney and Jennifer discuss a handful of Trump's wild cabinet picks including but not limited to: The potential fallout of nominating RFK as the secretary of Health and Human Services and what it would mean to ban pesticides (spoiler alert: there would be no food to eat). The inexperienced, univerally hated, and accused sex-trafficker, Matt Gaetz, being chosen for America's next Attorney General.  And of course Elon Musck with his special cartoon dog as the mascot for government efficency. (Note: This is not satire.) Action Items: Find Your Senator and tell them NOT TO CONFIRM: The accused Matt Gaetz for Attorney General Russian-connected Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence Chris Wright, current CEO of an OIL company to the Secreatary of Energy Elon Musk's unchecked "DOGE" position All of these appointments scream conflicts of interest and give the ultra rich and already powerful unprecedented power to shape regulations, contracts and budgets to advance their own personal and business goals. DO: Pass the Press Act DO: Confirm Biden’s Judicial Appointments "Dear ___, as a constituent, I am urging your to...(copy/paste above bullet points or write your own!) Thank you." Sources: Judge blocks Biden administration's rule to expand overtime pay for millions See the list of Trump Cabinet picks and more White House appointments so far People think they've figured out the real reason Elon Musk keeps jumping like that  Exclusive: Woman told House Ethics panel she witnessed Gaetz having sex with minor, lawyer says How RFK Jr. has said he'll stop "mass poisoning" of America's children Without the use of pesticides, there would be a 78% loss of fruit production, a 54% loss of vegetable production, and a 32% loss of cereal production.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Courtney tells Jennifer the amazing story of Henrietta Lacks and her family. The book "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot was challenged in Tennessee when a mom confused gynecology with pornography. Now, the books has been removed from required reading lists, when Henrietta's story should be amplified and used as an important lesson in bodily autonomy, Black history, systemic racisim, and so much more. Read Henrietta's grandson's book "The Untold Story of Henrietta Lacks" by Ron Lacks to learn more about this phenomenal woman and her family.  Sources: DeSantis Seeks to Silence Brain Cancer Patient Speaking Out About Her Abortion Crownsville: Turning a grim site from Maryland's past into a jewel | WYPR Sickle Cell Disease Continues to Face Underfunding, Lack of Research | Newsroom Why do so many Black women die in pregnancy? One reason: Doctors don't take them seriously. Student creates app to improve care for black babies Federal judge: DeSantis can’t threaten Florida TV stations airing pro-abortion rights ad Banned Books Week: “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” Henrietta Lacks' descendants reach a settlement over the use of her 'stolen' cells County judge strikes down Ohio abortion ban, citing voter-approved reproductive rights amendment | AP News Books Challenged or Banned in 2015-2016, by Robert P. Doyle - Illinois Library Association Oprah Winfrey doesn't think Lacks family deserves more than $16,000 consultancy fee for movieBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer and Courtney discuss the irony in a Florida school district banning a book called "Ban this Book" by Alan Gratz. Other notable topics include but are not limited to: JD Vance's obsession with pronatalism, why Minecraft is more relevant than the Tuttle Twins, and the horrors of selling slime kits at Scholastic Book Fairs.  Sources: Awards for Ban This Book - Alan Gratz A Florida school district banned ‘Ban This Book.’ Author says that’s ‘erasure of the highest order’ and wants it reinstated | CNN Book about book bans banned by Florida school board | Books | The Guardian Georgia abortion clinics see surge after 6-week abortion ban overturned - State Affairs Under this new law, Amber Thurman and Candi Miller would be alive today. The Tuttle Twins and the Case of the Really Bad Libertarian Propaganda Examples of SA and violence in the Bible: Genesis 16 NIV - Hagar's Mistreatment by Sarah and Abraham Judges 4:21 NIV - But Jael, Heber’s wife, picked up a - Bible Gateway Samuel 2:13 NIV - Amnon SA's his sister Tamar, then her brother Absalom orders a hit on Amnon Judges 19:24 NIV - Look, here is my virgin daughter, and his concubine. I will bring them out to you now, and you can use them and do to them whatever you wish. But as for this man, don’t do such an outrageous thing.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

WARNING: This episode contains descriptions of SA. With 54% of American adults having a reading level below the 6th grade, should we be concerned that homeschooling numbers are on the rise? Join Courtney and Jennifer as they discuss the novel, "Push" by Sapphire, which tells the story of 16-year-old illiterate Claireece "Precious" Jones, whose battle with poverty, abuse, and systemic neglect reveals the nefarious intent of right-wing extremist politicians to defund the public education system, make reproductive care illegal, and keep poverty a reality. After all, education = empowerment and we wouldn't want that, would we?  Also, Mariah Carey = GOAT and John McEntee, former director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office in the Trump administration, has a small penis...probably. This episode is dedicated to Amber Thurman and the dozens of lives that could have been spared if not for the dangerous and extreme abortion bans.  Become a MILF Ally for access to exclusive content, here.  Sources: Senate Republicans block IVF bill, as Democrats elevate issue ahead of November election Abortion is on the ballot in these states for November elections 'The GOP doesn’t care': JD Vance lambasted for calling school shootings 'a fact of life' - Alternet.org Reading the numbers: 130 million American adults have low literacy skills — APM Research Lab "Precious" mettle | Salon.com Artists With the Most No. 1 Songs on the Hot 100, From The Beatles to Rihanna & More Former PPO Director John McEntee Joins Project 2025; Personnel Database Launches | The Heritage Foundation Why Some Members of Congress Are Wearing AR-15 Pins | TIME Amber Thurman's Preventable Death in Georgia  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

JR Episodes are back! This week Courtney and Jennifer cover the adorable tear-jerker "Sam is My Sister" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter. Safe for little ears, Courtney reads the book and then joins Jennifer in a discussion on the outrageous "Abducter Bill" AKA SB 254 that not only makes gender-affirming care illegal, but allows the so-called "free" state Florida to intervene in custody and healthcare decisions, even if those decisions were legally and consensually made in another state.  Want to see the video recording of this episode? Become a MILF Ally! Sources: US judge strikes down Florida ban on gender-affirming healthcare | Reuters Florida 'abduction' bill? Opponents call it 'legal kidnapping.' What does the bill say? Florida can enforce transgender gender-affirming care ban, restrictions. What that means    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer and Courtney are trying this new thing called "consistency" where they release a "challenged book" episode every Monday.  Join them this week as they discuss Malindo Lo's phenomenal historical fiction "Last Night at the Telegraph Club". Episode highlights: Courtney admits her attraction to women in mid-century masculine fashion Jennifer calls out Moms for Liberty for taking books out of context YET AGAIN when they mistake a novelty naked lady cigarette lighter for a robotic sex toy...(We're pretty sure sex toys were not robotic in the 1950s...) Buy the book here Become a MILF Ally hereBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe

From penis jokes to using tampons for nose bleeds, Jennifer and Courtney discuss why watching the DNC was so much fun to follow.  Support the show by becoming a MILF Ally!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/moms-into-literary-freedom--6617805/support. Get full access to @milf4books with Court & Jen at milf4books.substack.com/subscribe