BURNT

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter dive into the importance of informed parenting, community support, and the ongoing fight for women’s rights. Through candid conversation and personal stories, they unpack current events, discuss how parents can raise socially aware children, and highlight the role of collective action in creating meaningful change. The episode explores why open dialogue, civic engagement, and strong communities are essential in shaping a more equitable future.What We're Talking About...The importance of informed parenting and having age-appropriate conversations with children about difficult topics and current eventsHow community support and small, everyday micro-connections help build resilience and foster meaningful social changeThe push for legislation to end statutes of limitations for sexual assault and why these laws matter for survivors seeking justiceThe ways current events and political issues affect children, families, and broader societyHow sharing personal stories and lived experiences can inspire advocacy, awareness, and collective action for social changeChapters00:00 Celebrating Women's Month and Community Engagement02:59 Navigating New Projects and Podcasting Adventures05:50 The Importance of Age-Appropriate Conversations09:06 Understanding Current Events and Their Impact on Children11:49 Parenting in a Complex World18:04 Building Connections and Finding Hope22:45 Navigating Righteous Anger and Collective Action24:12 The Birth of Good Work Advocacy Collective26:47 Writing from the Moment: A Creative Process30:08 Grounding in Chaos: Finding Center32:37 The Weight of Awareness: Speaking Out35:49 Breaking the Silence: Personal Healing and Advocacy39:46 Historical Context: Women's Rights and Progress41:44 The Power of Community and Matriarchy

In this episode of BURNT, Michelle and Lauren dive into the realities of political activism, grassroots organizing, and the emotional toll of advocacy work. They unpack the complexities of movement infighting, navigating social dynamics within activist spaces, and how burnout can impact long-term engagement.Through candid conversation, they explore the importance of authentic connection, community-building, and values-driven leadership in sustaining meaningful social change. The hosts also highlight the power of personal storytelling as a tool for advocacy, emphasizing how lived experience can inspire action, strengthen movements, and create lasting impact.What We're Talking About...Political activism and movement infighting: navigating community dynamics and internal conflict in social justice spacesGrassroots organizing metaphor: “boats and the river” as a framework for understanding coalition-building and social movementsThe power of storytelling in advocacy: how personal narratives drive civic engagement and cultural changeVicarious trauma in activism: emotional resilience, burnout prevention, and mental health in organizingThe Epstein files and survivor advocacy: accountability, systemic power, and supporting survivors within justice movementsChapters00:00 Reconnecting and Reflections03:46 Navigating the Political Landscape06:41 Finding Your Community09:41 The Importance of Empathy in Activism12:37 Engaging with Political Figures15:36 Addressing Social Issues and Advocacy18:45 Personal Experiences in Activism21:14 Centering Survivor Voices25:19 Navigating Vicarious Trauma27:08 The Power of Personal Stories28:55 Unveiling Systemic Issues32:24 The Cycle of Trauma35:12 Healing Through Advocacy37:11 Community Support and Growth

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren Lehman Carter and Michelle Glogovac share a raw, unfiltered conversation about navigating current events, political polarization, and the emotional toll of living through constant crisis. They explore how social media shapes public discourse, the pressure to perform activism online, and why authenticity matters more than optics.Lauren and Michelle reflect on the weight of recent tragedies, the growing divide in political beliefs, and the essential role of empathy in advocacy and allyship. The conversation also addresses the challenges of parenting in an uncertain world, accountability for content creators, and the responsibility to speak out against injustice—even when it’s uncomfortable.Grounded in honesty and hope, this episode of BURNT centers on resilience, community, and the belief that collective action and understanding can lead to meaningful change.What We're Talking About...Authenticity in conversations builds trust, especially in discussions around politics, grief, and social justice.Social media shapes public discourse, amplifying both meaningful connection and harmful misinformation.Empathy is essential for understanding opposing perspectives and navigating political and ideological divides.Political beliefs can differ widely, even among people with similar backgrounds and lived experiences.The loss of life in current events has a profound emotional impact, reinforcing the human cost behind headlines.Parenting in today’s world requires constant adaptation to cultural, political, and societal change.Content creators have a responsibility to speak out against injustice, even when it risks discomfort or backlash.Apathy can contribute to systemic harm, making silence a form of complicity.Hope for the future is rooted in collective action, community care, and sustained advocacy.Understanding different mindsets fosters empathy, connection, and meaningful dialogue across divides.Chapters00:00 Navigating Authenticity in Conversations03:57 The Weight of Current Events on Social Media06:36 The Responsibility of Influencers and Content Creators09:57 The Complexity of Political Beliefs and Personal Responsibility12:45 Empathy and Understanding in a Divided Society15:39 The Role of Apathy in Social Issues18:43 The Impact of Violence on Humanity21:46 Parenting in a Challenging World24:33 The Science of Goodness and Human Behavior27:32 Engaging with Bots and Social Media Responsibility30:40 The Urgency of Speaking Up33:44 Hope and the Future of Activism

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren Lehman Carter and Michelle Glogovac have a candid, unfiltered conversation about the current political and social climate in America. Reflecting on personal experiences, they explore themes of privilege, accountability, and responsibility, both on an individual level and within systems of power. The discussion examines American history, the role of ICE, government accountability, and the obligations of elected officials, while also addressing the emotional weight of parenting during uncertain and troubling times. Through honest dialogue, Lauren and Michelle emphasize the importance of personal healing, truth-telling, and storytelling as tools for connection, resistance, and meaningful change.What We're Talking About...Recent political and social events have reshaped perspectives on privilege and accountability in America.White women must confront their proximity to power and the responsibilities that come with it.American history is often taught through a revisionist lens, obscuring systemic harm and injustice.Awareness must lead to action when addressing social, political, and human rights issues.Elected officials are called to move beyond statements and take meaningful, accountable action.Documenting human rights abuses is essential for transparency, truth, and accountability.ICE’s expansive federal budget raises serious concerns about priorities, oversight, and impact.Law enforcement should prioritize protecting and serving communities, not perpetuating violence.Parenting in today’s political climate requires honest, age-appropriate conversations about justice, safety, and societal realities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Raw Conversations04:35 Understanding Privilege and Accountability07:34 Historical Context and Revisionist Narratives10:35 The Importance of Awareness and Action13:38 Personal Responsibility and Historical Legacy16:56 Political Accountability and Activism19:51 Documenting Human Rights Abuses22:47 ICE and Community Response24:44 The Role of Content Creators in Advocacy26:33 Different Perspectives on Jesus27:44 Losing Our Last Fucks29:29 Historical Context of Violence31:33 Law Enforcement vs. ICE33:34 The Budget and Power of ICE35:36 Impact on Families and Children37:21 Historical Parallels and Current Events40:39 Privilege and Responsibility42:53 Navigating Relationships and Politics46:41 The Importance of Personal Stories51:18 Hope for the Future

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle and Lauren dive into the real pressures of the holiday season. They discuss the stress of Christmas preparations, the weight of holiday traditions, and the high expectations often placed on mothers during the holidays. Sharing personal stories, they explore the importance of empathy, community, and support, and how creating new, meaningful traditions can help reduce holiday stress. The conversation also addresses the hypocrisy in holiday messaging and why supporting each other matters now more than ever.What We're Talking About...The joy and excitement of children during the holiday season is a cherished experience for families.Mothers often face pressure to create the perfect Christmas or holiday experience.Holiday traditions can evolve, and embracing new ones can make celebrations more meaningful.Traditional gender roles in holiday preparations can be challenged and redefined.Practicing empathy and fostering community support is essential during the festive season.Simplifying holiday plans and traditions can help reduce seasonal stress.The hypocrisy in holiday messaging can create frustration and unrealistic expectations.Setting boundaries during family gatherings is important for managing stress and mental health.Support from friends and family is crucial for holiday mental well-being.Focusing on and celebrating the small moments can lead to a more fulfilling holiday experience.Chapters00:00 Christmas Reflections and Traditions13:59 The Pressure of Christmas Preparations19:09 Cultural Commentary and Inclusion21:20 Empathy and Understanding in Parenting23:57 Hypocrisy in Modern Values26:30 The Role of Community and Events29:34 The Impact of Public Figures on Family Dynamics31:19 The Performance of Public Messaging35:20 The Importance of Authenticity and Support40:25 Encouraging Open Communication and Support43:27 Celebrating Community and Connection

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren and Michelle dive into an honest and thought-provoking conversation about community building, trust, and what it truly means to create safe spaces for connection. They explore how inclusivity, gratitude, and kindness shape meaningful relationships, both within communities and in everyday life.The discussion examines the complexities of modern activism, the role of spirituality in personal and collective growth, and why gathering—intentionally and authentically—matters more than ever. Through personal stories and reflective dialogue, Lauren and Michelle unpack how difficult conversations can strengthen trust when approached with care and openness.This episode also addresses the emotional weight of navigating societal challenges, including gun violence, and how these realities impact community dynamics. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the power of showing up for one another and fostering spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported.What We're Talking About...Community building is essential for emotional well-being, resilience, and meaningful connection.Trust in community and activist spaces must be earned through consistency, accountability, and care.Inclusivity is foundational to creating strong, supportive communities where people feel seen and valued.Intentional gatherings help foster deeper relationships and authentic human connection.Joy and gratitude are conscious practices that can ground us during challenging times.Creating safe spaces allows for honest dialogue, vulnerability, and authentic conversations.Remaining aware of societal issues—without becoming desensitized—is critical to collective growth.Finding joy while holding grief is an important part of healing and community care.The influence of profit and capitalism can undermine genuine community building when it outweighs human needs.In difficult moments, seeking out helpers and acts of kindness can restore hope and connection.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections03:48 Exploring Spirituality and Community06:54 Building Trust and Relationships09:53 Creating Community Through Gatherings12:43 The Importance of Connection14:40 Facilitating Community Engagement17:36 The Power of Shared Experiences20:42 Embracing Authenticity in Community23:33 Cultural References and Humor23:49 The Impact of Media on Public Perception24:42 Tupac's Legacy and Cultural Influence26:32 Navigating Personal Connections and Community28:35 Creating Safe Spaces in Social Gatherings31:40 The Importance of Intentionality in Relationships33:32 Addressing Mean Girl Behavior and Boundaries36:42 Finding Joy Amidst Grief38:43 Community Support and the Helpers41:37 Confronting Gun Violence and Its Impact45:31 Messages of Kindness and Bravery

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter dive into the real, unfiltered complexities of modern community building. They unpack what it means to show up as an advocate, navigate grassroots networks, and find your unique niche in a constantly evolving cultural landscape. Michelle and Lauren discuss the importance of supportive female relationships, the pressures and pitfalls of influencer culture, and why authenticity and healthy boundaries matter now more than ever. This conversation highlights how women can create meaningful connections, lead with kindness, and cultivate communities that truly uplift and empower.What We're Talking About...Grassroots networks play a powerful role in shaping effective community response.Navigating complex family dynamics is challenging but essential for personal clarity and growth.Advocacy requires accountability, responsibility, and a commitment to showing up authentically.Discovering your niche within advocacy work can be a difficult but meaningful process.Supportive, values-aligned communities are key to collective and individual growth.Authentic, educational content creation builds deeper trust and long-term engagement.Strong, healthy relationships between women are not only possible but vital.Clear personal boundaries help protect mental well-being and prevent burnout.Influencer culture often prioritizes visibility over authenticity, impacting how communities form.Kindness, connection, and genuine relationship-building remain at the heart of thriving communities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Weekend Reflections03:37 Grassroots Rapid Response Networks06:48 Navigating Responsibilities in Advocacy09:46 The Role of Content Creators in Activism12:41 Personal Growth and Political Engagement15:46 Building Community and Supportive Relationships18:33 Challenges of Female Collaboration21:51 Setting Boundaries and Personal Standards27:08 The Impact of Harmful Statements27:45 Critique of Content Theft29:33 The Ethics of Idea Ownership30:34 Plagiarism in Influencer Culture32:41 Consumerism and Authenticity in Content Creation33:37 The Human Connection in Luxury37:24 The Importance of Kindness and Respect42:47 Setting Boundaries and Raising Standards

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter open up about the realities of winter travel anxiety, sharing personal stories and practical tips for managing a fear of flying. They explore the meaning and magic of holiday traditions—from advent calendars to Santa—and discuss how consumerism shapes the season. Michelle and Lauren also break down the political and cultural themes showing up in recent films and examine the growing challenge of navigating misinformation in today’s media landscape.The conversation underscores the power of community, the value of staying engaged, and the importance of celebrating small wins—especially for creators building content in a fast-paced world. This episode offers a grounded, relatable look at finding balance during the holidays, both personally and socially.What We're Talking About...The value of community support and meaningful connection in modern parenting.Effective coping strategies for managing winter travel anxiety and fear of flying.How advent calendars help build memorable, intentional holiday traditions.The challenges parents face when navigating the Santa myth with kids.The ways holiday consumerism can overshadow authenticity and family meaning.How current movies reflect political and cultural themes shaping society.The growing impact of misinformation on public perception and everyday decision-making.Why sustainable content creation should prioritize authenticity over vanity metrics.The struggle for positive content to gain visibility compared to controversial topics.The importance of celebrating small wins to support personal growth and strengthen community.Chapters00:00 Winter Weather and Travel Woes03:49 Navigating Fear of Flying06:34 Advent Calendar Traditions09:34 The Santa Dilemma12:40 Political Undertones in Movies18:39 Misinformation and Propaganda22:55 Community Engagement and Activism24:02 Consumerism and Black Friday Experiences25:48 American Culture: Violence and Consumerism27:48 Movies and Their Societal Reflections30:48 Political Themes in Entertainment32:40 Media Consumption and Its Impact34:43 Finding Balance in a Chaotic World39:47 Content Creation and Authenticity

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren and Michelle dive into a wide-ranging, candid conversation about modern motherhood and the pressures women face. They explore spiritual cleansing practices, health and vaccination choices, and the emotional load of preparing for the holidays. The hosts also unpack the realities of balancing career decisions with parenting, society’s unrealistic expectations for mothers, and the growing hypocrisy they see throughout today’s political landscape. Through personal stories and honest reflections, BURNT offers a grounded look at navigating life, family, and societal challenges with clarity and intention.What We're Talking About...Daily cleansing and spiritual practices can support emotional clarity and overall well-being.Conversations around health and vaccinations reveal the broader societal impacts of medical decision-making.Thanksgiving offers an opportunity for meaningful family connection, reflection, and traditions centered around food and gratitude.Motherhood presents unique challenges, particularly when balancing identity, purpose, and career choices.Societal expectations continue to pressure women into traditional gender roles, shaping how mothers navigate modern life.Political hypocrisy can influence cultural norms, public trust, and how families engage with current events.Personal growth often emerges through introspection and learning from past experiences.Travel and exploration play an important role in self-discovery and broadening one’s worldview.Strong relationships require intentional effort, communication, and emotional understanding.Life moves in phases, and embracing change is essential for resilience and personal development.Chapters00:00 Cleansing Energy and Spiritual Practices03:47 Health and Wellness Reflections06:32 Thanksgiving Preparations and Family Traditions09:42 Food Favorites and Culinary Creativity12:57 Community Support and Food Security15:37 Parenting Perspectives and Societal Expectations25:45 The Reality of Motherhood and Career Choices29:52 Challenges of Balancing Work and Family Life33:35 The Impact of Societal Expectations on Women37:17 Hypocrisy in Political Discourse39:45 Reflections on Change and Accountability44:30 Parenting Lessons and Repairing Relationships50:01 The Importance of Sentimental Traditions55:40 Advice for Young Adults: Travel and Live Together

*** TW: This episode discusses experiences of sexual assault as well as the Epstein Files. ***In this powerful episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter dive into the urgent conversation around sexual assault, survivor stories, and societal accountability. They unpack the revelations from the Epstein files, explore the role of the media in raising awareness, and emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding in supporting survivors. The discussion sheds light on the challenges faced by survivors, the cultural need for justice, and the ongoing fight for accountability in cases of sexual violence.Listeners will gain insight into how sharing survivor experiences can drive change, why public awareness matters, and what steps society must take to confront these systemic issues.What We're Talking About...Trigger warnings are important for preparing audiences when discussing sensitive topics such as sexual assaultSurvivors often struggle with PTSD and the harmful impact of societal narrativesAccountability in sexual assault includes not only perpetrators but also those who enable a culture of silenceThe Epstein files reveal political connections that complicate justice and accountabilitySurvivor stories are essential for healing, awareness, and cultural understandingMedical professionals can also be perpetrators, and accountability in these cases is often lackingFamily dynamics during holidays can be especially challenging for survivorsEmpathy is necessary to understand and support survivor experiencesMedia plays a critical role in shaping public perception and raising awareness about sexual violenceMotivation and hope are vital for survivors and advocates working toward justice and reformChapters00:00 Navigating Trauma and Current Events04:38 The Impact of Rape Culture07:29 Religious Hypocrisy and Accountability10:28 The Interconnectedness of Power and Abuse13:41 Survivor Stories and the Quest for Justice25:45 The Long Shadow of Trauma29:06 Navigating Family Dynamics and Personal Trauma34:00 Maternal Health Disparities and Racial Inequities38:15 The Power of Sharing Stories and Building Empathy44:24 Accountability and the Systemic Issues of Abuse51:13 Finding Empowerment Through Voice and Community

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren Lehman Carter and Michelle Glogovac dive into the intersection of politics, community, and authenticity. They unpack the latest political events, from voting rights and healthcare access to the ongoing fight for women’s representation in leadership.Lauren and Michelle explore how social media shapes political narratives, the pressure to appear “authentic” online, and the often unseen labor of political staffers and organizers. With honesty and humor, they reflect on identity, creative expression, and the power of community support in creating meaningful change.Whether you’re politically active or just trying to make sense of it all, this conversation will leave you thinking about how we can all stay engaged—and keep the fire burning. What We're Talking About...Community support fuels real change. Building strong local networks is key to addressing social and political issues that affect us all.Political accountability builds trust. Transparent leadership and honest communication strengthen democracy and public confidence.Women in politics are redefining representation. From leadership to fashion, they’re showing how identity and self-expression can coexist with power and purpose.Authenticity on social media is complicated. The hosts unpack what it really means to be “real” in an influencer-driven culture.Creativity belongs in politics. Artistic expression and political engagement can inspire empathy, activism, and new perspectives.Communities step up in crisis. Everyday people are organizing, donating, and supporting one another when it matters most.Political engagement matters. Staying informed and active in your community is one of the most powerful ways to create impact.Positive reinforcement creates progress. Encouraging the good—both online and in politics—can shift culture toward accountability and kindness.Social media isn’t always reality. The performative side of influencer culture can mask the real challenges behind the screen.Behind every movement are the staffers. Recognizing the hard work of political aides and organizers helps us understand how change truly happens.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Current Events03:00 Voting Rights and Postal System09:00 Political Pardons and Reactions15:00 Community Support and Healthcare21:00 Political Dynamics and Personal Reflections27:00 Cultural Commentary and Influencers33:00 Economic Realities and Personal Finances39:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren and Michelle dive into a candid conversation about activism, personal experiences, and navigating today’s political climate. They explore community responses to ICE enforcement, highlight the importance of curiosity and open dialogue in political discussions, and discuss the urgent need for structural change in government systems. The episode also touches on finding joy during the holidays and the power of mutual support in times of crisis. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and real-world perspectives on activism, community engagement, and social justice.What We're Talking About...Activism is for everyone, no matter your experience level.Community response is essential in times of crisis.Whistle strategies help protect vulnerable communities through rapid action.Curiosity can bridge political divides and foster understanding.Healthcare remains a pressing issue affecting countless families.Food drives and mutual aid strengthen communities during the holidays.Political motivations often overshadow humanitarian needs.Acknowledging harm is necessary to advocate for meaningful change.Joy and activism can coexist withinthe same community.Engaging in political discussions with kindness leads to more productive dialogue.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates03:37 Activism and Community Response to ICE06:55 Whistle Strategy and Rapid Response Training09:35 Chicago's Unique Culture and Community Spirit12:43 Conversations with Politicians in DC15:39 Healthcare and Political Impasse18:43 Food Insecurity and Government Response21:57 Political Motivations and Humanitarian Crisis24:52 Burnout and Activism27:50 Curiosity as a Tool for Understanding30:56 Embracing Diversity and Community Building34:57 Katherine Hepburn and Personal Identity35:45 Political Dynamics and Personal Relationships36:54 Identity Changes and Political Expediency38:49 Conspiracy Theories and Political Manipulation40:35 Government Spending and Public Welfare44:44 Election Prop 50 and Voter Rights50:41 Celebrating Joy Amidst Chaos

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter reflect on their weekend experiences and dive into the impact of recent protests and the shifting political landscape. Through an honest and insightful discussion, they unpack themes of privilege, responsibility, and community activism, exploring what it means to stay engaged in times of division.Michelle and Lauren share personal reflections on the role of women in activism, the emotional weight of political conversations, and the importance of empathy in fostering understanding across differing viewpoints. Together, they highlight the power of connection, hope, and resilience as essential tools for building unity and progress.What We're Talking About...Community engagement is the foundation of meaningful activism.Protests reflect shifting societal attitudes and the growing demand for change.Privilege carries a responsibility to use one’s voice and take action.Productive political discourse depends on empathy, understanding, and listening.Women are leading essential conversations and shaping modern activism.Unity and collaboration strengthen every movement for justice.The emotional impact of political engagement is real — self-care matters.Navigating complex political ideologies requires openness and nuance.Challenging the status quo is key to driving lasting social change.Hope and resilience keep activism alive through difficult times.Chapters00:00 Weekend Reflections and Current Events03:00 Protests and Community Engagement06:02 The Impact of Politics on Daily Life08:54 Privilege and Responsibility in Activism12:12 Navigating Conversations About Politics15:00 The Role of Politicians and Media17:55 Understanding Political Ideologies21:06 The Nuances of Political Discourse23:48 The Importance of Unity in Activism26:59 The Role of Women in Political Conversations30:04 The Challenges of Political Engagement32:57 Finding Common Ground in Politics35:53 The Emotional Toll of Political Discourse39:00 The Future of Political Activism42:07 Hope and Resilience in Activism44:49 Closing Thoughts on Community and Change

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter sit down for a powerful conversation about political engagement, media literacy, and the impact of government shutdowns on everyday Americans. Together, they unpack how propaganda and political messaging shape public perception and why critical thinking is essential in today’s divided media landscape.The discussion delves into the intersections of faith, empathy, and social justice, highlighting the courage it takes to admit when we’re wrong and the importance of community support in politically tense times. Michelle and Lauren remind listeners to seek out the helpers — to stay informed, stay kind, and stay active in the ongoing fight for justice, understanding, and human connection.What We're Talking About...Political engagement is essential to sustaining a healthy democracy.The government shutdown has a major impact on federal employees and working families.Propaganda and misinformation are increasingly used to shift political blame and divide voters.Practicing critical thinking helps cut through biased media narratives.True faith aligns with empathy, justice, and service to others.Admitting mistakes shows maturity, growth, and a willingness to learn.Community support provides strength during times of political tension and uncertainty.Fear and polarization often prevent empathy — but awareness can break that cycle.The influence of political propaganda is more visible and dangerous than ever.In difficult times, finding hope, helpers, and human connection keeps us moving forward.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Work for Democracy02:58 Government Shutdown and Political Accountability05:55 Propaganda and Political Messaging08:46 Critical Thinking and Questioning Information11:46 Fear, Power, and Community14:39 Christianity, Empathy, and Human Rights17:51 Violence and Tensions in Society20:55 The Importance of Grace and Understanding23:54 Combatting Propaganda and Staying Engaged

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren and Michelle get real about beauty routines, self-care, and motherhood in a world that often demands perfection. They share honest reflections on body image, confidence, and the pressure to “have it all”, while tackling how misinformation and social media shape modern womanhood. With humor, heart, and plenty of relatable moments, this episode dives into the everyday realities of being a woman today—and why open, authentic conversations with our children matter more than ever.What We're Talking About...Self-care rituals play a powerful role in boosting confidence and emotional well-being.Makeup and beauty routines can transform how we feel and see ourselves.Having open conversations with children about culture and society builds awareness and empathy.In a world full of misinformation, parents have a vital role in helping kids navigate truth from noise. Many women struggle with personal insecurities—and sharing those experiences builds connection.Finding joy in small beauty moments can be both grounding and empowering.It’s okay to embrace comfort and indulgence—especially during stressful times.Understanding why people act the way they do creates compassion and perspective.Cultural commentary helps us make sense of today’s complex world.Humor and honesty make even serious conversations more human and relatable.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Beauty and Self-Care03:45 Makeup and Personal Expression06:44 Hair Care Journey and Tips10:43 Navigating Body Image and Self-Perception16:40 Embracing Autonomy in Self-Care20:06 Navigating Criticism and Self-Image21:15 The Influence of Role Models23:22 Education Paths and Career Choices25:14 The Podcasting Landscape26:08 Conversations on Societal Shifts30:09 Understanding Motivations Behind Actions34:08 The Importance of Open Dialogue with Kids37:10 Misinformation in the Age of AI

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter dive into the intersections of faith, social media, and relationships in today’s polarized world. They unpack the absurdity of the rapture phenomenon, examine how personal beliefs influence friendships and family dynamics, and critique the ways social media platforms amplify extremist voices. Through a candid and thought-provoking conversation, Michelle and Lauren highlight the importance of empathy, understanding, and protecting marginalized communities in an age of division.What We're Talking About...Why the rapture phenomenon is sensationalized across social media platformsPersonal reflections on life, mortality, and how we’d spend our final daysThe hidden cost of the pressure to “save others” and its impact on personal faithRecognizing that judgment and division exist on all sides of ideological debatesStrategies for navigating relationships when beliefs and values clashThe dangers of social media echo chambers and the amplification of extremismDrawing historical parallels to understand today’s political climateWhy empathy and understanding are essential in difficult conversationsHow personal growth often emerges from challenging discussionsChapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:53 The Rapture and Social Media Reactions05:52 Personal Reflections on End of the World08:49 The Extremism in Beliefs12:26 Personal Experiences with Religion16:16 Judgment and Relationships21:17 Navigating Intolerance and Hate26:19 Political Extremism and Social Media31:45 Historical Comparisons and Current Events35:49 Engagement with Dissenting Opinions

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Lauren Lehman Carter and Michelle Glogovac dive into a powerful conversation about the realities of online harassment, the dangers of doxxing, and the widespread effects of hate speech. They unpack the role of empathy in activism, the importance of staying authentic in advocacy, and the challenges of building genuine connections in a deeply divided society. Together, they reflect on political violence, share strategies for fostering safe and supportive communities, and remind us of the joy and resilience that can still be found in moments of chaos.What We're Talking About...Why authenticity is essential in advocacy and connectionThe dangers of doxxing and its severe consequencesHow empathy is often misunderstood or villainized in activismThe importance of community gatherings for healing and changeThe role of safe spaces in fostering dialogue and resilienceReflections on political violence and public safetyWhy personal stories matter in pushing for kindness and changeHow to find joy and resilience even during chaosChapters00:00 Navigating Emotional Authenticity03:39 Understanding Doxxing and Its Implications06:53 The Impact of Hate Speech and Online Threats09:42 The Role of Empathy in Advocacy12:56 The Challenge of Political Violence and Public Safety15:39 Finding Joy Amidst Chaos18:34 The Importance of Community and Connection21:41 Reflections on Personal Safety and Advocacy24:49 The Need for Open Dialogue and Understanding27:43 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations30:51 The Shift in Perception of Goodness33:49 The Power of In-Person Gatherings36:47 Embracing Joy and Humor in Difficult Times

In this episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter open up in a raw and unfiltered conversation about the intersection of motherhood, activism, and political awareness. They share the challenges of balancing parenting with social justice work, the emotional toll of political events, and the responsibility of using privilege to advocate for change.Lauren and Michelle also dive into the complexities of relationships within activism, the urgent need to reclaim the meaning of “pro-life”, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in the ongoing fight for equality and justice. Honest, heartfelt, and unapologetic, this conversation calls for reflection and action.What We're Talking About...Activism is intertwined with motherhood for many women.Finding balance between personal life and activism is challenging.Political awareness can be emotionally taxing.Using privilege to advocate for marginalized communities is essential.Women are stepping into their power in new ways.Relationships can be impacted by differing political views.Regret over inaction can motivate future activism.Reclaiming the term 'pro-life' is necessary for broader social justice.Freedom should mean freedom from oppression, not freedom to oppress.Listening to others' stories is crucial for understanding and empathy.Chapters00:00 Pride in Place: A Chicago Vibe03:40 Balancing Motherhood and Activism06:28 Confronting Ignorance: The Weight of Awareness09:41 Regrets of Inaction: A Call to Courage12:46 Using Privilege for Good15:30 Navigating Relationships and Activism18:33 The Cost of Speaking Out22:57 Navigating Political Shifts in Relationships24:42 The Good Girl Conditioning and Its Impact27:23 Women Leading the Charge28:45 The Importance of Listening to Stories30:41 Confronting Dehumanization and Aggression32:47 The Complexity of Pro-Life Arguments34:50 Shame and Judgment in Society37:52 Reclaiming Freedom and Pro-Life42:46 Burning It Down for Change

In the very first episode of BURNT, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Lauren Lehman Carter dive deep into today’s most pressing challenges. Together, they explore the realities of burnout, societal expectations, and the crucial role of authentic communication in modern life.This powerful conversation unpacks the mental health toll of navigating public discourse, the impact of technology on daily living, and the urgent need for community resources to support children. Michelle and Lauren also discuss wealth disparities and the societal pressures that drive performance-based living, offering insights and inspiration for building a more compassionate and sustainable future.What We're Talking About...Burning things can be a metaphor for releasing negativity.Public discourse can be risky but necessary for change.Perfectionism can hinder vulnerability and authentic communication.Modeling good communication is essential for future generations.Children today face different challenges than previous generations.Technology impacts our mental health and awareness of societal issues.Societal grief and trauma need to be addressed collectively.Performance pressure affects both adults and children.Wealth disparities are a significant issue in society.Community resources are vital for supporting those in need.Chapters00:00 Burning Down the Norms03:00 Navigating Burnout and Public Discourse06:04 The Weight of Perfectionism and Vulnerability08:57 Modeling Communication for Future Generations12:01 Creating Safe Spaces for Children15:04 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health17:58 Addressing Societal Grief and Trauma20:57 The Burden of Performance in Today's World24:13 Understanding Wealth Disparities27:03 The Importance of Community Resources29:59 A Call to for Change

BURNT is what happens when the world feels too heavy, the bullshit too loud, and the fire inside too strong to ignore.Some days, we’re burnt out.Other days, we want to burn it all down. Hosted by Lauren Lehman Carter and Michelle L. Glogovac, BURNT is an unscripted, unfiltered space where we show up raw, honest, and ready to tackle the hard stuff—together. From deep conversations with friends to spontaneous vent sessions, we're here to explore what it means to live, speak up, and try to be good humans in a world that often makes that feel impossible.No scripts. No filters. No pretending it’s all fine. Just two women, some fire, and a lot of truth.www.burntpodcast.com