Food for Thought
In this episode, Nadia and Alyssa welcome registered dietitian Kerry Blair, founder of Food for Fuel and known on Instagram as "The Gymnast RD." The conversation explores nutrition topics including orthorexia, the differences between registered dietitians and nutritionists, gut health trends, and vitamin supplementation.
Kerry offers evidence-based insights to help young adults navigate nutrition misinformation on social media and provides practical advice for developing healthy relationships with food and understanding when supplements are truly necessary.
Takeaways
Orthorexia is a form of disordered eating characterized by an unhealthy obsession with "healthy" eating that leads to restrictive behaviors and fears around food.
Social media significantly contributes to nutrition misinformation and orthorexic tendencies, with studies suggesting 25-30% of young adults may be struggling with orthorexia.
In the US, registered dietitians have extensive educational requirements (including a master's degree, clinical internship, and board certification), while "nutritionist" is an unregulated title.
Gut health is an emerging area of nutrition research, and many trendy gut health products lack substantial scientific evidence to support their claims.
Vitamin and mineral supplements should be taken based on individual needs determined by proper testing, as excessive supplementation can cause imbalances and health issues.
Chapters
00:00 - 01:41: Introduction and welcoming Kerry Blair
01:42 - 05:04: Kerry’s journey to becoming a dietitian and gymnastics nutrition
05:05 - 08:00: Explaining orthorexia and its prevalence among young adults
08:01 - 10:34: Social media's impact on nutrition trends and diet culture
10:35 - 15:45: Navigating nutrition advice and finding reliable information
15:46 - 19:33: The difference between registered dietitians and nutritionists
19:34 - 23:35: Discussion on gut health trends and probiotic products
23:36 - 33:20: Vitamin supplementation, regulation issues, and third-party testing
33:21 - 35:02: Closing thoughts on advocating for proper nutritional testing
From Screen to Scrubs
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia Herrera discuss medical dramas, including "The Pit" and "Grey's Anatomy," and how Nadia’s interest in these shows influenced her desire to become a doctor. They explore how initial interests evolve into deeper motivations, particularly as the younger host contemplates medical school, gap years, and the application process.
The conversation focuses on finding one's path, embracing different timelines, and seeking guidance from those who've already completed the journey.
Takeaways
Initial interests (like TV shows) can spark career paths, but real-life experiences help develop deeper motivations.
Taking a gap year between undergraduate studies and medical school can provide valuable experience and clarity.
Everyone's educational and career journey is different - there's no single "right" timeline.
Seeking advice from people who've already completed a similar path can provide valuable insights.
It's beneficial to focus on one thing at a time rather than dividing attention between multiple priorities.
Chapters
00:00 - 01:55: Introduction and discussions about hospital dramas
01:56 - 04:34: Comparing "The Pit" to "Grey's Anatomy" and other medical shows
04:35 - 07:33: How TV shows influenced career aspirations in medicine
07:34 - 10:08: Developing deeper motivations beyond initial interests
10:09 - 13:18: Considering a gap year before medical school
13:19 - 16:43: Benefits of being around like-minded peers and seeking advice
16:44 - 19:29: Specific questions about MCAT timing and gap year experiences
19:30 - 21:28: Closing thoughts on seeking guidance and continuing TV discussions
Digesting Nurition Advice
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia Herrera discuss modern food trends, gut health, and the impact of social media on eating habits. They explore how nutrition messaging has evolved over generations, from the low-fat craze of the past to today's protein-focused and gut health movements.
The conversation also dives into the dangers of social media influence on eating behaviors, including orthorexia (an obsession with "clean eating") and the rise of influencer-driven food trends. With brands, influencers, and celebrities pushing supplements and diet advice, how do we know what’s actually healthy? Alyssa and Nadia reflect on the importance of critical thinking, balanced nutrition, and learning to trust your own body.
Takeaways
Nutrition trends have drastically changed over generations, from low-fat diets to high-protein and gut health obsessions.
Social media heavily influences eating behaviors, often promoting extreme or unrealistic food choices.
Orthorexia is an eating disorder that involves an obsession with only eating "clean" or "healthy" foods.
Many influencers lack actual nutrition expertise but still shape public perceptions of food and health.
Gut health is an important topic, but it's often over-marketed in ways that may not be backed by science.
Food trends are constantly changing, making it confusing to determine what’s actually beneficial.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to healthy eating—what works for one person may not work for another.
The rise of celebrity and influencer-branded supplements raises concerns about quality, effectiveness, and trust.
Brands specifically target younger generations, making it harder to separate marketing from real science.
The best approach? Take in expert-backed information, but ultimately trust how your own body feels.
Chapters
00:10 – Catching Up: Weekend Plans & College Life
01:55 – What Does "Healthy Eating" Mean to You?
02:44 – How Nutrition Messaging Has Changed Over the Years
03:42 – The Influence of Social Media on Diet & Health Trends
06:02 – Orthorexia: When "Clean Eating" Becomes Harmful
08:47 – The Rise of Influencer-Driven Food Trends
09:58 – The Psychological Impact of Social Media on Eating Habits
11:24 – Gut Health: Science vs. Marketing
12:16 – How to Filter Nutrition Advice & Listen to Your Body
12:36 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways
Mom + Daughter Communication Tips with guest Alta-Grace Tan, PsyD
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia welcome special guest Alta-Grace Tan, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and family relationships. Together, they dive into the evolving dynamic between parents and their adult children, discussing the challenges of communication, independence, and setting healthy boundaries.
The conversation covers how parents can support their kids without overstepping, why young adults still turn to their parents for advice, and how to maintain closeness despite different lifestyles and time zones. With humor, real-life stories, and expert insights from Grace, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood within their family.
Takeaways
Parent-child dynamics evolve as kids transition into adulthood.
Many young adults still turn to their parents for advice but struggle with balancing independence and reliance.
Time zones, schedules, and life responsibilities can make communication between parents and kids more challenging.
Parents often feel the urge to immediately solve their child’s problems, but sometimes, kids need space to figure things out.
The shift from dependence to independence requires mutual understanding and trust.
Parents can help by using "I" statements instead of judgment to keep conversations open and supportive.
Every family has a different communication style—some talk daily, while others check in monthly, and that's okay.
Setting healthy boundaries is key to maintaining a strong relationship without overstepping.
Shared experiences—whether traveling together or co-hosting a podcast—help maintain closeness despite different lifestyles.
Love and support don't always mean agreement; it’s about being there, even when perspectives differ.
Chapters
00:10 – Introducing Guest: Psychologist Alta-Grace Tan
01:12 – The Struggles of Parent-Child Communication in Adulthood
02:42 – Finding Balance Between Independence & Seeking Advice
06:15 – Why Parents Feel the Need to Solve Every Problem
09:01 – How to Offer Support Without Overstepping
12:00 – The Role of Boundaries in Parent-Adult Child Relationships
14:23 – Using "I" Statements to Prevent Conflict
17:26 – The Importance of Shared Experiences in Maintaining Closeness
21:57 – How Often Should Parents & Kids Communicate?
24:30 – Navigating Different Expectations for Communication
27:41 – Final Thoughts & Advice for Strengthening Relationships
Here is the website where you can request an appointment with Dr. Tan:
The Biological Clock vs. Life Plans When Is the Right Time for Love & Family
In this special Valentine’s Day episode, Alyssa and Nadia dive into modern dating, hookup culture, and the pressures of long-term planning. They discuss the challenges of finding real connections in the age of dating apps, the reality of being surrounded by couples, and the difference between casual dating and intentional relationships.
The conversation also explores long-term life planning, including the struggles of balancing career goals, relationships, and the pressure of starting a family by a certain age. Nadia reflects on her evolving perspective on med school, motherhood, and the ticking biological clock, while Alyssa reminds her that life is unpredictable and not everything can be planned.
Through humor, honesty, and a little manifestation, this episode is a heartfelt and relatable conversation about love, timing, and letting go of control.
Takeaways
Hookup culture and dating apps make it harder to find long-term relationships.
Many young people feel pressure to have a relationship timeline but realize life doesn’t always go as planned.
Dating apps encourage quick judgment, making it harder to build connections organically.
Surrounding yourself with couples can make being single feel isolating.
The desire to balance career, relationships, and family planning adds additional stress.
Med school, residency, and career ambitions often push back personal life goals like marriage and children.
The pressure of the biological clock is real, but options like egg freezing exist.
Some things in life require manifestation and effort, but others need to happen naturally.
Letting go of rigid plans can open up unexpected opportunities.
At the end of the day, love happens when you least expect it!
Chapters
00:10 – Valentine’s Day & The Love-Hate Relationship with the Holiday
01:03 – The Challenges of Dating in College & Hookup Culture
02:42 – Dating Apps: Do They Help or Hinder?
04:06 – The Struggles of Being Surrounded by Couples
06:15 – The Pressure to Plan Life & Relationships Perfectly
08:50 – Balancing Med School, Motherhood & The Biological Clock
12:00 – The Science of Fertility & The Reality of Family Planning
14:23 – Manifestation vs. Letting Go of Control in Life & Love
15:26 – Final Thoughts: Trusting the Journey
Peanut-Drama Free
In this recent episode, Alyssa and Nadia dive into the realities of living with food allergies, the psychological impact of growing up with dietary restrictions, and the balance between caution and fear.
Nadia reflects on her lifelong peanut allergy and how it has shaped her habits, choices, and perspectives. The conversation explores generational differences in how allergies are managed, the environmental factors contributing to rising food sensitivities, and the idea of desensitization treatments.
Alyssa also touches on trauma-informed healthcare—how medical professionals can empower patients rather than instill fear, especially when dealing with chronic conditions.
Takeaways
Growing up with food allergies influences daily habits and social interactions.
Attitudes toward allergies vary between generations—past generations had fewer restrictions but less awareness.
Environmental factors may play a role in the rising prevalence of food allergies.
Allergy testing can be a double-edged sword—some prefer not knowing if they have additional sensitivities.
Psychological effects of food allergies include hyper-awareness, social stigma, and even humor as a coping mechanism.
People with allergies often develop personal risk tolerances—some avoid all traces of allergens, while others take minor risks.
Trauma-informed healthcare focuses on educating and empowering patients rather than instilling fear.
The medical system can discourage patients from seeking care due to overwhelming lifestyle change recommendations.
Healthcare providers should help patients make informed choices without making them feel powerless.
Finding a balance between caution and living life fully is key for those managing chronic conditions.
Chapters
00:09 – Introduction: Talking About Allergies & Health
01:16 – Growing Up with a Peanut Allergy
02:42 – How Risk Tolerance Varies Among Allergy Sufferers
05:34 – The Dangers of Travel with Food Allergies
07:21 – Generational Differences in Managing Allergies
09:17 – Choosing Not to Get Retested: The Fear of More Allergies
12:42 – Could There Be a Cure for Food Allergies?
15:09 – The Psychological & Social Impact of Allergies
18:07 – The Role of Environmental Factors in Rising Allergies
21:37 – Trust & Fear in Healthcare: How It Affects Patients
24:22 – Trauma-Informed Care: A Better Way to Approach Health
Why Can't We Talk Like Friends
In this latest episode, Alyssa and Nadia have an honest and reflective conversation about mother-daughter communication—the challenges, the evolution, and the deep desire for mutual understanding.
Alyssa expresses her hope for open communication that lasts into the future, while Nadia shares her struggle with seeking approval and balancing independence. They explore how cultural expectations, personality differences, and life transitions (like going to college or becoming a parent) shape the dynamic between mothers and daughters.
The episode also touches on whether a mother-daughter retreat could help strengthen relationships, and what it means to truly support one another without judgment.
Takeaways
Mother-daughter communication is complex and evolves with life stages.
Seeking parental approval is natural but can be challenging to navigate as independence grows.
Cultural influences and personality differences shape family communication styles.
Open conversations can strengthen relationships, but sometimes oversharing can cause anxiety.
There’s a fine line between offering support and unintentionally making someone feel judged.
Different siblings can have completely different communication styles, even within the same household.
Life transitions, like college or becoming a parent, can shift how mothers and daughters relate to each other.
Some adult children talk to their parents daily, while others rarely check in—there’s no “one size fits all.”
A mother-daughter retreat could be a way to foster understanding, but timing and willingness matter.
The goal isn’t to be perfect communicators, but to respect and support each other through all stages of life.
Chapters
00:09 – The Podcast Hijack: Talking About Mother-Daughter Communication
01:00 – Navigating Open Conversations Without Feeling Judged
02:42 – Seeking Approval: A Natural Yet Challenging Dynamic
04:16 – How Should Parents Support Without Overstepping?
06:02 – Oversharing vs. Keeping Boundaries in Family Relationships
09:51 – Sibling Communication Styles: How They Differ Within a Family
10:46 – Generational Differences in Parent-Child Conversations
12:23 – The Future of Mother-Daughter Bonds: Will It Change?
13:38 – Could a Mother-Daughter Retreat Strengthen Relationships?
15:32 – The Transition from Seeking Parental Input to Self-Trust
17:26 – The Balance Between Asking for Help & Learning Independence
18:25 – When Do Parents and Children Become “Peers”?
Pour Decisions-Thoughts on the Alcohol-Cancer Connection
In this latest episode, Alyssa and Nadia Herrera dive into the surprising link between alcohol and cancer, discussing new research and its implications. Alyssa shares recent statistics on alcohol-related cancer deaths and the challenges of cutting out alcohol, given its deep-rooted presence in social culture, while Nadia reflects on how college students often ignore health risks, viewing cancer as a distant concern.
The conversation also explores the rise of non-alcoholic alternatives, the marketing tactics behind "healthy" hydration solutions like Liquid IV, and the broader need for awareness and balance when making lifestyle choices.
Takeaways
Recent research links alcohol consumption to an increased risk of seven different cancers.
20,000 alcohol-related cancer deaths occur annually in the U.S.
Younger generations may not take long-term health risks seriously unless personally affected.
Alcohol is deeply ingrained in social culture, making it harder to cut out than other carcinogens.
The growing trend of non-alcoholic mocktails offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing the social experience.
Products like Liquid IV market themselves as hydration boosters but often contain excessive sugar.
Critical thinking is necessary when evaluating health trends and marketing claims.
Risk exposure is everywhere, and making informed, balanced lifestyle choices is key.
Chapters
00:10 – Catching Up & Weather Talk
01:04 – The Link Between Alcohol & Cancer
02:42 – 20,000 Alcohol-Related Cancer Deaths Per Year
04:28 – Carcinogens & How We Ignore Alcohol’s Risks
06:15 – Alcohol’s Social & Chemical Impact on the Brain
09:43 – The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
12:03 – The Truth About Liquid IV & Hydration Marketing
16:04 – IV Bars & Hydration Trends
17:29 – Navigating Risk & Making Balanced Choices
18:14 – Closing Thoughts
TikTok, Insta, and Facebook Gen X vs Gen Z
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia Herrera-Set discuss the role of social media in shaping generational perspectives, personal connections, and the spread of misinformation.
Alyssa reflects on her desire to step away from platforms like Instagram and Facebook due to concerns about credibility and mental health, while Nadia offers a Gen Z perspective on the importance of social media in staying informed and connected.
They delve into topics such as the potential TikTok ban, the challenges of filtering real news from fabricated stories, and the societal implications of a world dominated by digital interactions. The episode closes with reflections on intentions for 2025, focusing on being open to life’s journey amidst a changing social and political landscape.
Takeaways
Social media deeply influences how we perceive and interact with the world.
Concerns about misinformation and confirmation bias are growing across generations.
Gen Z sees social media as essential for connection and awareness, while older generations remember life without it.
The potential TikTok ban highlights broader conversations about censorship and global disconnection.
Social media can both pollute and enrich mental health, depending on how it’s used.
Generational differences shape how individuals approach social media, news, and personal connections.
Striking a balance between staying informed and maintaining mental well-being is essential.
Intentionally disconnecting from social media may create opportunities for deeper, more meaningful engagement elsewhere.
Chapters
1:13 - TikTok Ban and the Role of Social Media
04:02 – Concerns About Misinformation and Confirmation Bias
5:30 – Navigating News Consumption Without Social Media
8:45 – The Challenges of Disconnecting from Social Media
10:45 – Setting Intentions for 2025: Being Open to the Journey
Becoming an MD in an Era of Distrust
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia discuss generational and cultural differences in attitudes towards medical care, trust in healthcare professionals, and the evolving role of social media in shaping public perceptions of health.
Nadia reflects on how her experiences as a student and future medical professional influence her views, including challenges with navigating health insurance and understanding systemic healthcare issues.
Alyssa brings a parental perspective, sharing observations on the skepticism and frustrations many face when seeking care in today’s healthcare system.
The conversation also explores topics such as self-diagnosis, advocating for oneself in medical settings, and the impact of health literacy on public health.
Takeaways
Generational shifts have led to a reliance on social media for health advice over traditional medical professionals.
Self-diagnosis from social media can contribute to misinformation and confusion.
Trust in healthcare professionals is declining due to systemic frustrations and narrow scopes of care.
Advocating for oneself in medical settings is critical but requires awareness and vocabulary.
Public health campaigns play a vital role in educating individuals about symptoms and preventive care.
Future medical professionals must be prepared to address skepticism and misinformation from social media.
Health literacy initiatives can improve outcomes by empowering individuals with knowledge.
Systemic challenges, such as health insurance barriers, significantly affect access to care.
Cultural attitudes toward healthcare are influenced by broader political and social trends.
Open discussions about healthcare challenges can foster understanding and drive change.
Chapters
00:00 – Reconnecting After a Break
01:02 – Appreciating Family Time and Reflections on the Future
04:51 – Cultural Skepticism Toward Western Medicine
07:41 – Social Media’s Role in Health Advice
09:52 – Navigating Personal Health Challenges
15:35 – Social Media and Patient Expectations in Medicine
18:30 – The Importance of Humility and Adaptability in Healthcare
21:36 – Health Literacy and Advocacy for Public Health
23:10 – Political Influence on Healthcare Systems
A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth with Dr. Gina Mundy
"My book is not about what can go wrong."
In this episode, we are so fortunate to be joined by childbirth attorney Gina Mundy! Gina discusses her journey into the field of childbirth law, the inspiration behind her book, A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth aimed at empowering expecting mothers, and the common issues faced during childbirth, particularly regarding the use of Pitocin. She emphasizes the importance of parental knowledge and preparation for childbirth, the regional differences in medical practices, and offers advice for aspiring OB-GYNs. The discussion highlights the need for proactive measures in childbirth to ensure the safety and health of both mothers and babies.
childbirth, law, attorney, childbirth cases, parenting, pregnancy, healthcare, childbirth education, expecting mothers, medical advice
Takeaways
Gina Mundy has over 20 years of experience in childbirth law.
Her book aims to empower parents with knowledge about childbirth.
Pitocin is a common drug used in labor that can lead to complications.
Parents should be proactive in their childbirth preparation.
Moms are the decision-makers during childbirth, not the medical team.
There are significant regional differences in childbirth practices across the U.S.
Gina's personal experience with her niece inspired her to write her book.
Childbirth can be a rewarding but demanding profession for OB-GYNs.
Understanding common issues can help prevent complications during childbirth.
Preparation and knowledge can lead to healthier childbirth outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Childbirth Law and Advocacy
03:09 Gina Mundy's Journey to Specializing in Childbirth Cases
05:59 The Inspiration Behind Writing a Book
09:03 Empowering Expecting Mothers Through Knowledge
12:01 Common Issues in Childbirth: Understanding Pitocin
14:57 Navigating Childbirth Decisions: The Role of Parents
18:05 Regional Differences in Childbirth Practices
20:56 Advice for Aspiring OB-GYNs
24:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
All About Anxiety
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia discuss their personal experiences with anxiety, exploring the triggers and manifestations of their feelings. They share coping mechanisms, particularly journaling, and reflect on how their understanding of anxiety has evolved over time. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and communication in managing anxiety, as well as the impact of external factors such as hormonal changes. The episode ends with a recognition of the ongoing journey of understanding and managing anxiety!
anxiety, coping mechanisms, journaling, self-reflection, mental health, personal experiences, communication skills, narrative medicine, emotional well-being, coping strategies
Takeaways
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, often without clear triggers.
Coping mechanisms like journaling can provide relief and clarity.
Self-reflection is crucial in understanding personal anxiety patterns.
External factors, such as hormonal changes, can influence anxiety levels.
It's important to find coping strategies that feel genuine and not forced.
Talking about feelings, whether through journaling or conversation, can help process emotions.
Anxiety can be a learned response, making it challenging to break the cycle.
Recognizing the difference between anxiety with and without reason can aid in management.
Having a support system and sharing experiences can alleviate feelings of isolation.
The journey of managing anxiety is ongoing and requires patience and self-compassion.
Sound Bites
"I've just been really anxious recently."
"I feel like you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety."
"I had to go to jury duty last Thursday."
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Anxiety: Personal Experiences and Observations
19:45 Coping Mechanisms: Journaling and Self-Reflection
30:03 Understanding Anxiety: Patterns and Perspectives
The Future of Love: Marriage and Commitment
"I feel like a lot of people think marriage is the end goal."
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia explore the complexities of relationships, particularly in the context of college life. They discuss the pressures of finding a lifelong partner, the societal expectations surrounding marriage, and the varying perspectives on intimacy before marriage. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of friendships in the face of romantic relationships, the impact of social media on dating, and the challenges of modern dating apps. Throughout, they reflect on their own experiences and the generational shifts in attitudes towards relationships and commitment.
college relationships, commitment, marriage pressure, intimacy, friendship dynamics, dating apps, social media influence, modern dating, relationship advice, generational perspectives
takeaways
Relationships in college can feel more intense than in high school.
There's a societal pressure to find a lifelong partner during college.
Many young people feel uncertain about the path to marriage.
Intimacy and compatibility are often debated topics among peers.
Marriage is seen by some as an outdated institution.
Friendship dynamics can shift when one partner becomes too involved in a relationship.
Dating apps can feel overwhelming and unmotivating for some.
Social media influences perceptions of relationships and marriage.
The concept of marriage varies greatly among different generations.
It's important to maintain friendships even when dating someone new.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Relationships in College
02:54 Perspectives on Sex and Marriage
05:25 The Role of Commitment and Societal Expectations
08:24 Friendship Dynamics and Relationship Changes
10:52 Advice and Perspectives on Dating
13:30 The Impact of Breakups and Friendships
16:13 Dating Apps and Modern Relationships
18:35 Future Aspirations and Marriage Discussions
Navigating Healthcare as a Woman
"Google told me I was going through menopause."
In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia delve into the complexities of women's health, particularly focusing on menstrual changes, menopause, and the societal perceptions surrounding these topics. They discuss personal experiences, the influence of social media on health awareness, and the challenges women face in accessing appropriate healthcare. The conversation highlights the need for better education and research on women's health issues, as well as the importance of understanding the hormonal changes that accompany different life stages.
menopause, perimenopause, women's health, menstrual cycle, health awareness, social media, healthcare access, hormonal changes, PCOS, ageism
Key takeaways
Social media trends can influence perceptions of health issues.
Menopause is often not discussed among younger generations.
Alyssa emphasizes the importance of understanding menopause symptoms.
There is a lack of research focused on women's health issues.
Accessing gynecological care can be more challenging for women.
Many health studies have historically focused on men.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Menstrual Changes and Concerns
02:49 The Impact of Social Media on Health Awareness
05:52 Exploring Menopause: Myths and Realities
08:52 The Importance of Women's Health Research
11:45 Navigating Healthcare as a Woman
15:00 The Intersection of Age and Health Awareness
Ballet v.s. Gymnastics ft. Nicole Sahrling
Nicole Sahrling, a video editor and marketing assistant for Papaya Podcast, shares her untraditional journey from being a ballet dancer in Eastern Europe to attending community college and now transferring to UC San Diego. She discusses the challenges and decisions she faced, including taking a gap year and pursuing her passion for ballet. Nadia Herrera-Set, a gymnast, also shares her experiences and the parallels between ballet and gymnastics. In this episode, we’re exploring the themes of passion, fear, perseverance, and the impact of ballet and gymnastics on our personal growth. Nicole and Nadia also offer some advice for parents of children in ballet or gymnastics, includes being supportive, understanding the culture of the sport/art, and believing their children when they express pain or injury.
ballet, gymnastics, passion, fear, perseverance, personal growth, support, understanding, pain, injury
Takeaways
Following your passion, even if it deviates from the traditional path, can lead to unique and valuable experiences.
Both ballet and gymnastics require dedication, perseverance, and the ability to overcome fear and pain.
Parents of ballet and gymnastics students should be supportive, understanding, and advocate for their children's well-being.
The culture of ballet and gymnastics can be challenging, but it also teaches valuable life lessons.
Embracing pain and challenges can lead to personal growth and gratitude for the opportunities and skills gained.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Nicole's Role in Papaya Health
02:58 Nicole's Journey from Ballet to Papaya Health
08:03 The Parallels Between Ballet and Gymnastics
14:57 The Challenges and Lessons of Ballet and Gymnastics
23:09 The Role of Parents in Supporting Ballet and Gymnastics Students
34:00 Nicole's Transition to UC San Diego and Nadia's School Year
Embracing Change: New Opportunities in College, Empty Nesting, & More
In this episode, Alyssa, Nadia, and Lucy discuss Lucy's upcoming college semester in Prague. Nadia shares some great advice for starting college, and Lucy does the same for those entering their senior year of high school. Alyssa reflects on the transition in her role as a mother and at the same time, feelings of excitement for new opportunities. We all ended this episode feeling open-minded and eager to see what college life has in store!
college, Prague, advice, senior year, parenting, transition
Takeaways
Be open to meeting new people and making new friends in college.
Don't cling to people or assume they will be your lifelong friends.
Enjoy your senior year of high school and don't stress too much about college applications.
Parents should embrace the transition and find excitement in new opportunities.
College is a time of change and growth, and it's important to be open-minded and adaptable.
Chapters
00:00 Starting College in Prague: Lucy's Excitement and Expectations
02:16 Advice for Starting College and Senior Year of High School
07:11 Reflections on Parenting and the Empty Nest
09:06 Embracing Change and New Opportunities in College
Reflections on Papaya Talk: 2023-2024
"Not everyone has a relationship with their mom like we do. So it could be a helpful guide or addition to whatever they have going on to hear people having conversation like this."
In this final episode of the season, Alyssa and Nadia reflect on their experience with the podcast and discuss the impact they have made. They also talk about their plans for the future and potential topics for next season. If you would like to submit an idea or are interested in being featured, fill out the question form! They express gratitude towards their listeners and guests, and end the episode with well wishes for the summer.
podcast, reflection, impact, future plans, gratitude, summer
Takeaways
Regular podcasting can lead to more open and comfortable conversations between hosts.
The impact of a podcast may not always be visible, but it can provide valuable information and perspectives to listeners.
It's important to be open to learning and adapting in the podcasting journey.
Podcasts can serve as a helpful guide or addition to people's lives.
The podcasting experience can be both exciting and scary, but it's worth sharing with others.
Expressing gratitude towards listeners and guests is important for maintaining a positive podcasting community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reflection
02:59 The Impact of the Podcast
05:58 Future Plans and Potential Topics
09:00 Discussing Skin and Wellness Hacks
13:33 Career Paths and Pressures
15:59 Gratitude and Farewell
Should I Pursue a Career in Healthcare?
"It's really like on the spot type thing. You can't really prepare for what the kind of calls you're going to get that day."
In this episode of Papaya Talk, Nadia reflects on her experience working as a medical secretary at a community health center for the past six months. She describes her daily tasks, such as answering phone calls, booking appointments, and dealing with paperwork. Nadia also discusses the additional role of care coordinator that was added to her responsibilities. She shares her thoughts on the challenges and rewards of working a nine-to-five job and compares it to being a student. The skills she developed, such as quickly picking up new tasks and using medical terminology, combined with the impact of her parents' healthcare background has deeply impacted her understanding of patient care and empathy. During this episode, Nadia reflects on her co-op experience in a medical clinic and discusses her aspirations to go to medical school. Nadia describes the value of work experience and expresses her interest in learning about the healthcare system and how things work in real-time. She also discusses her motivation to work towards becoming a medical provider and making a difference in people's health. Alyssa shares her own journey of becoming a physical therapist and the reasons that motivated her. They discuss the importance of having a clear understanding of why one wants to pursue a career in medicine. Nadia reflects on her experiences and the things she has learned during her co-op, including the importance of being flexible and empathetic towards patients.
work experience, medical secretary, community health center, daily tasks, care coordination, challenges, rewards, skills, medical terminology, patient care, co-op experience, medical clinic, SOAP note, medical school, healthcare system, medical provider, making a difference, motivation, physical therapist, career in medicine, flexibility, empathy
Takeaways
Working a nine-to-five job can be challenging and repetitive, but also rewarding in terms of helping patients and gaining experience.
Nadia developed skills such as quickly picking up new tasks, using medical terminology, and social awareness cues.
Having parents in healthcare helped Nadia understand patient care and gave her exposure to medical terminology and real-world healthcare experiences. The SOAP note format is used in medical clinics and consists of subjective, objective, assessment, and plan sections.
Working in a medical clinic has motivated Nadia to consider going to medical school and become a medical provider.
Having a clear understanding of why one wants to pursue a career in medicine is important.
Being flexible and empathetic towards patients can make a significant difference in their healthcare experience.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Past Six Months
07:38 Challenges and Rewards of a Nine-to-Five Job
13:41 Skills Developed in the Workplace
23:32 Introduction and Discussion of SOAP Note Format
26:29 Learning about the Healthcare System
28:57 Understanding Motivation in Medicine
31:21 The Importance of Having Clear Goals
35:03 Different Perspectives on Becoming a Doctor
37:54 Reflection on Co-op Experience
40:58 Advice for Future Self as a Doctor
43:10 Conclusion
Find Comfort in Your Own Skin: The Pressure of “Bathing Suit Season”
"Are you doing it because you want to or because you want to look like somebody else?"
In this week’s podcast episode, Nadia and Alyssa explore body image and the pressure to have a certain body shape for “bathing suit season.” We chat about the influence of social media and advertising on body ideals, the importance of feeling comfortable in one's own skin, and the challenges of body changes throughout life. We also touch on the pressure men face regarding their body image. We’d love to hear what you think of this episode, and stay tuned for our upcoming episode of skincare in the sun.
body image, bathing suit season, social media, advertising, comfort, body changes, pressure, men, skincare
Takeaways
The pressure to have a certain body shape for bathing suit season is influenced by social media and advertising.
Feeling comfortable in one's own skin is more important than conforming to societal body ideals.
Body changes throughout life can be challenging, but self-acceptance is key.
Men also face pressure regarding their body image.
The next topic of discussion will be skincare in the sun.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
08:00 The Influence of Social Media and Advertising on Body Ideals
11:27 Finding Comfort in Your Own Skin
15:53 Challenges of Body Changes Throughout Life
22:54 Upcoming Topic: Skincare in the Sun
How Social Media Has Impacted Dating & Relationships Through Generations
"With dating apps, with like all of that stuff, you can reach out to so many people."
This episode covers topics such as social media usage across different generations, the evolution of dating terminology and practices, and the impact of social media on professional and personal perceptions. It also delves into the concept of oversharing on social media and the differences in the use of social media platforms between different age groups like college students (Gen Z) and Gen X. The conversation explores the evolution of dating and relationships, influenced by social media and generational differences. It delves into the progression of dating from casual hookups to exclusive relationships, the impact of social media on dating culture, and the changing attitudes towards commitment. We also touche on the influence of social media influencers on younger generations and the potential impact of AI on future dating culture.
social media, generational differences, dating terminology, social media impact, oversharing, professional perception, personal perception, social media platforms, dating, relationships, social media, generational differences, commitment, hookup culture, influencers, AI, future dating culture
Takeaways
Generational differences in social media usage and perception.
Evolution of dating terminology and practices over time.
The impact of social media on professional and personal perceptions.
Differences in the use of social media platforms between different age groups. The evolution of dating and relationships is influenced by social media and generational differences.
Social media has impacted dating culture, leading to changes in the progression of relationships and attitudes towards commitment.
Influencers and AI are expected to have a significant impact on future dating culture and the behaviors of younger generations.
Chapters
00:00 Generational Differences in Social Media Usage
03:42 Evolution of Dating Terminology and Practices
14:35 The Impact of Social Media on Professional and Personal Perceptions
23:08 The Impact of Social Media on Dating Culture
25:01 Changing Attitudes Towards Commitment
32:24 Influencers and the Future of Dating Culture