DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
Hollie McKay
From the emerald mountains of Afghanistan to the bustling streets of Tokyo to fishing villages of Alaska and everything in-between, pregnancy and parenting is a universal experience with countless variations. Join seasoned international journalist Hollie McKay as she embarks on a global journey to explore the rich mosaic of family life across countries and cultures. Each week, she sits down with mothers, fathers and experts from around the world, expats and locals alike, to uncover the unique challenges and triumphs of raising children in different parcels of the planet. From prenatal care to toddler tantrums, "Dispatches" delves deep into the heart of family life, sharing nuggets of wisdom, laughter, and inspiring stories that transcend borders. Discover the the rich diversity of our world, one eye-opening conversation at a time.
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Top 10 DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
An Afghan Father Raising Two Young Girls Under Taliban Rule
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
10/22/24 • 52 min
In this powerful episode, I sit down with my dear friend Naweed, a father of two young girls in Afghanistan to hear his extraordinary story, from being born and raised in a refugee camp in Pakistan to becoming the provider for his family in Kabul. We explore the unique responsibilities placed on sons to care for their extended families in Afghan culture, the strength found in large families despite widespread poverty, and how communities persevere. He shares eye-opening insights into how the Taliban is funded and paints a vivid picture of life in the streets of Kabul—details that go far beyond what the mainstream media reports.
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From Rural Queensland to China, Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia: Raising Daughters Across Cultures and Fostering Empathy
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
10/15/24 • 64 min
In this episode, I sit down with my god sister, Annalise Stephens, who was raised as an only child in rural Queensland, Australia, and developed a deep desire to explore the world. Now a mother of two, Annalise has lived in China, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, raising her daughters across diverse cultures. We dive into her experiences navigating language barriers, adapting to different education systems, and managing cultural expectations. From local cuisines to the lessons of empathy gained through seeing how most of the world lives, Annalise shares insights on parenting and personal growth in a globally connected world.
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A Half-German, Half-Chinese Mom Raising Four Kids Across Europe, Almost Two Decades Apart
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
10/08/24 • 88 min
In this episode, I sit down with German-born actress Kami Manns, a remarkable mother of four, whose journey spans decades and countries. Born to a German mother and Haaka Chinese father, whom she met for the first time as an adult, Kami has raised her children in three different countries—Germany, France, and Switzerland—each offering unique experiences in postpartum care and child-rearing. With children aged 23, 18, and 4-year-old twin boys, she reflects on navigating the diverse landscapes of alternative schooling, government support, and the stigmas she faced as a young mom in the arts.
From giving birth across Europe to embracing a nature-focused, stress-free lifestyle for her children, this conversation delves into the challenges and beauty of raising a multicultural family with two decades between her eldest and youngest.
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The Daughter of a Child Bride in India
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
10/01/24 • 62 min
Rubby Singh, the daughter of a child bride in India, shares her family's harrowing experiences and the broader impact of child marriage in the region. India has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world, with an estimated 27% of girls married before the age of 18. Rubby's mother was forced into marriage at just 13, a fate shared by millions of young girls each year. Rubby discusses how this practice perpetuates cycles of poverty, limits educational opportunities, and contributes to health risks for young mothers. Her story highlights the urgent need for stronger legal enforcement and community education to protect vulnerable girls.
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Post-War Philippines to American Dream: A Father's Journey
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
09/20/24 • 61 min
Join us as we delve into the extraordinary life of my good friend Dennis Santiago, a man whose journey from the post-war streets of Manila to the suburbs of Southern California is as inspiring as it is heartwarming.
Growing up amidst the challenges of post-war Philippines, Dennis learned invaluable life lessons that have shaped him into the man he is today. From navigating the bustling streets of Manila to adjusting to a new culture in America, he'll share his unique perspective on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of family.
As a father of two daughters, Dennis will also discuss how his experiences have influenced his approach to parenting. Discover the wisdom he's passed down to his children, and gain insights into the challenges and rewards of fatherhood in a rapidly changing world.
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From U.S. Army Ranger to Emergency Room Doctor: All Things School Shootings to Maternal Mortality
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
11/19/24 • 47 min
In this compelling episode, I sit down with a U.S. Army Ranger veteran and ER doctor Matt Tipton who shares his extraordinary journey from rural East Tennessee to the U.S Army and emergency medicine. Matt opens up about raising three children post-divorce, the complexities of male mental health, and navigating the realities of school shootings in today’s America.
Our conversation delves into the pressing issues he encounters in the ER, including the leading causes for children’s visits, and his insights on the alarming rise in America’s maternal mortality rate. A thoughtful discussion on service, survival, and the health of a nation in crisis.
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Rebecca Deng's Harrowing and Hope-Filled Journey from Sudan
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
10/29/24 • 71 min
Join me for a powerful conversation with Rebecca Deng, a remarkable woman and mother who has defied all odds. Growing up in the midst of war in Sudan, Rebecca lost her father in the war and her mother and baby sibling died during childbirth. After evading a pending child marriage, at just 15, she gave birth to her first daughter, a heartbreaking consequence of wartime rape in a Kenyan refugee camp. Despite these trials, Rebecca's spirit remained unbroken. She immigrated to the United States, has had two more children, and is an incredible beacon of hope for survivors of trauma.
In this episode, Rebecca shares her extraordinary story, offering a glimpse into the Dinka tribe's birthing and child-rearing practices and the cultural differences she encountered in the United States. Discover the resilience and strength that have shaped her life, and learn how her journey can inspire others to overcome adversity.
Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Rebecca Deng, author of "What They Meant for Evil."
Learn More about Rebecca: www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccadeng1
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What I Saw in Africa: The Hell That is Darfur
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
11/26/24 • 36 min
Hollie McKay shares her firsthand experience from her recent trip to the Darfurian refugee camps on the Chad/Sudan border. She provides a heartbreaking and eye-opening account of the women enduring unimaginable hardship in the wake of wartime sexual violence, loss of loved ones, and the depletion of resources in the camps. Hollie delves into the devastating human toll of the ongoing conflict, offering insights into the real situation on the ground. From stories of resilience to the grim realities of survival in such extreme conditions, this conversation offers a rare and unfiltered perspective on one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises.
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From the Battlefield to Fatherhood: A Conversation with Kris "Tanto" Paronto
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
11/05/24 • 71 min
In this powerful episode, Kris "Tanto" Paronto, former Army Ranger and Benghazi survivor, opens up about the challenges and triumphs of fatherhood. From juggling overseas deployments to learning how to be a present father later in life and endeavoring to make up for lost time, Kris shares his journey of shunning ego, stepping back from the spotlight, divorcing and re-marrying his wife, and simplifying his once chaotic world to focus on his family. Hear his emotional account of coming back from the brink of suicide and the life-changing lessons he's learned along the way. This candid conversation offers deep insights into fatherhood, resilience, and the advice Kris would give his younger self.
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Fatherhood, Conflict, and Mental Health in Crisis inside Cameroon
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures
12/03/24 • 57 min
In this eye-opening episode, I speak with Cameroonian father of four NCHE Sam Tako, a mental health advocate and founder of FOMCAM who sheds light on the harsh realities of raising a family in a country torn apart by violence over French and English language divisions. Sam opens up about the impact of postpartum depression and poverty on mental health, the tireless effort to reduce the stigma, and the immense challenges of giving birth and raising children in an active conflict zone. We also explore Sam's passion for entrepreneurship, the importance of starting work young, and his ongoing fight for accessible education for all.
This is a candid look at resilience, hope, and the power of community amidst chaos.
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FAQ
How many episodes does DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures have?
DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures currently has 14 episodes available.
What topics does DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures cover?
The podcast is about Russia, International, Places & Travel, Society & Culture, Parenting, Kids & Family, Middle East, Humanitarian, Conflict, Podcasts, War, China, Foreign Policy and Military.
What is the most popular episode on DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures?
The episode title 'An Afghan Father Raising Two Young Girls Under Taliban Rule' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures?
The average episode length on DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures is 61 minutes.
How often are episodes of DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures released?
Episodes of DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures?
The first episode of DISPATCHES on Parenting Across Cultures was released on Sep 20, 2024.
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