41: Let's Chat about the Real P-Word, Periods with Janelle King and Shanicia Boswell
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It’s 2021 and it’s about time we all had the talk. This subject is taboo and very hushed. As a result, girls and women are left feeling confused and alone. In order to shed the stigma, Zuri is joined by Janelle King and Shanicia Boswell on this episode to talk all about periods. Aside from their own personal experience with periods, Janelle and Shanicia are both experts in the subject.
Janelle is a registered nurse with a Master’s degree in public health. Her clinical background includes HIV outreach and adolescent and teen medicine. She has spent many years educating young adults about reproductive and sexual health throughout her nursing career.
Shanicia is the founder of Black Moms Blog, which is a global platform that discusses parenting culture and lifestyle from a black mom’s point of view. She’s also the author of the best-selling book, “Oh Sis! You’re Pregnant!”
Together, the ladies leave no stone left unturned as they discuss the nitty-gritty details of periods, PMS, and privilege. Janelle and Shanicia share their first-period experience, which leads them to answer the question of why society has made period talk so taboo. Janelle shares from a medical professional’s perspective about the basics of a textbook perfect period as well the red flags to look out for. The ladies also make a case for tracking your period, and how doing so will help you better understand your mood and emotions.
You’ll also hear how Janelle and Shanicia use their platforms and voices to educate, support, and help communities embrace periods, shifting the taboo nature of the period talk to one that’s open and honest. From understanding the red flags to how having sex on your period can soothe your cramps -- this is the most candid, raw, and informative conversation about periods you’ll have the pleasure of listening to.
Follow Zuri Hall | Janelle King | Shanicia Boswell
Episode Resources: Oh Sis! You're Pregnant: The Ultimate Guide to Black Pregnancy & Motherhood | The Nurse Note | Black Moms Blog
A Closer Look at the Episode:
[1:59] All about the period party and menstrual drive
[3:37] How Janelle uses her platform to normalize conversations about periods and sexual health
[6:40] Shanicia recalls her confusing first-period experience
[8:20] Why Janelle kept her period a secret from her mom for the first few months
[12:28] Why is there such a stigma and taboo around the subject of periods?
[17:49] Understanding the basics of a period and red flags to look out for
[19:17] Apps and tools to track your period
[24:41] Why tracking your period can help you understand your moods and emotions
[31:38] The positive impact that the period party and menstrual drive have
[36:52] Recognizing the privilege of having access to feminine hygiene products
[37:58] Educating children about periods through honest conversations
[39:49] Is it important to introduce boys to the notion of periods?
[44:34] Embracing and preparing for your period
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Zuri Hall is an Emmy award-winning TV host (Access Hollywood, American Ninja Warrior) and is the executive producer & host of this millennial-focused podcast that will empower women to avoid “best life burnout” through candid conversation, expert panel discussions, and real-life, human interest stories from everyday women.