Posts tagged Advocacy
학교 부모 현실| Raising Kids, Navigating Schools: What Parents Really Face | Episode 28 (2025)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 학교 부모 현실| Raising Kids, Navigating Schools: What Parents Really Face | Episode 28 (2025)

It’s back-to-school season, and while many families are packing lunches and buying supplies, some of us — especially in immigrant or multicultural homes — carry invisible loads. We’re advocating for kids who don’t “fit the mold,” navigating behavioral concerns, or trying to decode school systems never designed with us in mind.

That’s why we hosted “More Than a Backpack,” a live panel born out of my own rough start to kindergarten with my daughter. What followed was a raw, honest, and deeply needed conversation with parents and professionals who know this weight firsthand.

  • Ms. Farah, worship pastor, creative leader, and mom of six, shared wisdom from home and ministry. Her reminder: the system is too overwhelmed to parent our kids and knowing their individual needs is our sacred work.

  • Dr. Ihyembe, developmental-behavioral pediatrician, explained why some appointments can’t be squeezed into 15 minutes and how parents must see themselves as advocates, not outsiders. She drew a clear line between what pills can and can’t do and when to seek professional help.

  • Mr. Afolabiyi, husband and dad of three, spoke with candor about the quiet weight fathers carry, urging couples to stay united and keep children’s needs first.

  • Ms. Millicent, nurse practitioner, content creator, and mom of four, brought humor and honesty. She reminded us that “real” parenting isn’t about being perfect, and that grace and connection matter just as much as grades.

  • Ms. Shola Adewumi, mom of two and nursing student, shared her journey raising a son labeled “too emotional.” Guided by faith, she learned to trust her instincts and advocate for him in ways that mattered.

In my own reflections, I compared navigating U.S. schools with Nigeria’s system and saw how adaptation isn’t optional; it’s essential. Across all stories ran the same thread: parents filling gaps with lessons, encouragement, and relentless advocacy, because our children are more than grades or labels.


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암, 우리가 이긴다| The One with Dr. Traci Bethea: On Empowering Ourselves against Cancer | Episode 5 (2025)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 암, 우리가 이긴다| The One with Dr. Traci Bethea: On Empowering Ourselves against Cancer | Episode 5 (2025)

What if your curiosity could be your superpower? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Traci Bethea, an epidemiologist and researcher at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, whose natural inquisitiveness led her to groundbreaking work in cancer health disparities. From growing up in a military family and exploring new places to investigating the environmental and social factors that influence breast cancer in Black women, Dr. Bethea shares how her passion for discovery and equity in healthcare has shaped her career. We explore her research on how factors such as childbirth, breastfeeding, and even personal care products may influence cancer risk and outcomes. If you’ve ever wondered why Black women are being diagnosed with aggressive breast cancers at younger ages—or what can be done about it—this episode is full of gems you won’t want to miss.

But the conversation doesn’t stop at research. Dr. Bethea opens up about survivorship, the power of sleep, and how small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on long-term health. She also sheds light on how stress, environmental exposures, and historical health challenges may be shaping cancer risks in Black communities worldwide. For those navigating a cancer diagnosis or supporting loved ones through it, Dr. Bethea shares practical, empowering advice on making informed healthcare decisions. This episode isn’t just about cancer—it’s about understanding our bodies, advocating for better care, and ultimately, thriving. Tune in for a powerful conversation that just might change the way you think about health and prevention.

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여성의 학문 길|The One with Professor Margaret Watson - On Empowering Women in Academia: Episode 19 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:여성의 학문 길|The One with Professor Margaret Watson - On Empowering Women in Academia: Episode 19 (2024) 

Meet Professor Margaret Camilla Watson—better known to her friends as Mag! Trust me, this woman is an absolute legend. With over 35 years in healthcare research and academia, Mag’s contributions are nothing short of inspiring. 

Mag shared her journey from her Scottish roots to becoming a pioneering pharmacist and academic. Growing up in a family of educators, her love for learning was inevitable, but what shaped her career was a blend of mentorship, community, and Scotland’s free education system. She spoke passionately about the challenges women face in academia—especially self-promotion and building networks—and her latest book, Women in Academia: Achieving Our Potential, tackles these head-on.

Her wisdom about resilience, social capital, and the need to fix broken systems resonated with me, and I bet it will with you, too. Ready to get inspired? Grab your headphones, and join us on this insightful journey with Mag!

Listen now, and let’s keep the conversation going!


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정체성의 다리|The One with Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts - Cultural Alchemy: On Being Black Transnational: Episode 18 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:정체성의 다리|The One with Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts - Cultural Alchemy: On Being Black Transnational: Episode 18 (2024) 

Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts has such an extraordinary personality and rich experience. I had the most incredible chat with him. He’s not just a clinical associate professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health—he’s the powerhouse behind the My Black is Transnational podcast. Talk about impressive credentials!

Born in Lagos and sent on a plane to the U.S. at just 8 years old, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts was raised in Chicago, embodying the essence of juggling multiple identities. Imagine a home filled with Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian influences! As a 1.5-generation Nigerian-American, he gracefully balances these vibrant cultures with humor and poise. His journey is nothing short of inspirational, and we shared laughs and deep insights, leaving me with a fresh perspective on navigating cultural identities. What’s even more fascinating is his personal life—he’s married to an African American woman, and together they have three children. Their family is a beautiful testament to cultural blending, and Dr. Ibe-Lamberts’ reflections on raising a bicultural family are both heartwarming and insightful.

From mastering grocery shopping as a young immigrant to his current work fighting health disparities for refugees and immigrant communities, his story radiates resilience and passion. One of the most touching moments was hearing him describe being "Kelly" in Chicago while reclaiming his true name, Kelechi. It’s raw, personal, and deeply moving.

Let’s not forget his incredible family journey—how his second mother and distant father shaped his life. His shift from aspiring MD to embracing public health with a focus on transnational issues? Absolutely fascinating! This episode isn’t just about cultural integration; it’s about how love, respect, and persistence create something extraordinary. Don’t miss out—hit play and join us on this remarkable journey!

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