Blog
Dial Down the Holiday Drama: Vibrant Life Magazine
Is a drama king or queen overthrowing your holiday celebrations? I share tips to manage difficult in-laws, volatile children, and those passive-aggressive comments during family gatherings in this Vibrant Life magazine article.
Preventing Holiday Burnout: Mom Show on KSL Radio
Are you feeling overwhelmed by high expectations and "shoulds"? I sat down with Lindsay Aerts, host of KSL Radio's The Mom Show to share tips for moms to prevent holiday burnout. Here are a few topics we cover
How to Navigate Political Talk During Holiday Gatherings: Interview with Shape.com
If someone starts a conversation leading down a road you know will be bumpy, feel free to duck out—just acknowledge their comment first, says Hanks. "No one can engage you in an intense political discussion without your willingness to enter that discussion," she says. "You can be really respectful and validate or hear them and then change the subject."
30 Questions Nobody Asks My Husband at Church
Through the years, I’ve noticed certain patterns, even in seemingly benign small talk, that send powerful cultural messages regarding gender, potential, life decisions, and worth. These patterns became even more apparent after I got married and observed the kinds of questions directed to me in comparison to my husband.
From Roles to Stewardship: Reframing Mormon Gender Roles
Over the past several months, I’ve noticed that in LDS circles, we often use the term “role” in reference to gender. From official talks over the pulpit, to blog posts, to casual conversations, it seems we’re always hearing about “gender roles”: role of men and women, role of mothers and fathers. The more I’ve noticed its use, the more uneasy I feel when I hear the word “role. ”
Assertive and Authentic Communication After Faith Transition: Debrief Society Podcast
If you're struggling to communicate authentically and assertively with loved ones about changes in your faith or religious participation you might enjoy this new Debrief Society podcast interview. Becca and I discuss my new book The Assertiveness Guide for Women and how how questioning your faith or leaving the religious tradition of your family of origin can indicate movement toward a higher level differentiation of self (the ability to be an individual while staying connected to loved ones). We also cover cultural barriers to assertive communication (for LDS women in particular), how to deal with the silent treatment once you've talked to family members about your faith
10 Reasons I'm Not Afraid to Use Trans-Friendly Bathrooms
I am scared that we are using transgender bathroom policies as a way to avoid discussing the real concerns - sexual assault and all forms of victimization. I am afraid that by framing concerns about transgender bathroom policies, we are further victimizing an already victimized populations. I am afraid that we are using this discussion to avoid engaging in more complex discussions about stopping the glorification of violence and our cultural obsession with sex.