So, why the fuss around vaccines? Why does mentioning them feel like dropping a bomb? That's what bugs me. Can't we just talk about it without it turning into a political showdown? That's why I sat down with Dr. Jason Hall again. And this time it's not about mommy makeovers, but about the state of vaccine discussions in the US.We cover it all - from the history of vaccine development to the ethical questions around financial incentives. As far as I'm concerned, it's important to start asking questions about vaccines without judgment and with an open mind. Parents on both sides of this issue just want to do what's best for their kids. And after all, science isn't about shutting down questions - it's about asking them. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Today I wanna chat about staying true to your purpose no matter what the world says. Liz here with some thoughts on that buzz-worthy commencement speech by Harrison Buctker, the Kansas City Chiefs' kicker. Now, I'm not one for football, but this guy stirred the pot.He speaks at a Catholic college about sticking to your God-given role, and the internet erupts - especially feminists. Turns out, it wasn't all that wild. Mostly about men stepping up and leading, with a shoutout to his wife for owning her homemaker role. It got me pondering the choices women face. We're told we can do it all, but can we? For me, the lifestyle I've chosen brings more peace than any career ever could. Not saying it's one-size-fits-all, but wouldn't it be nice if we backed each other's paths more?- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

There is one book that has totally changed my perspective - and I've read a lot of parenting books. Michaeleen Doucleff is the author of "Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans." She joined me on the show to get real honest about the struggles of modern parenting and how it's making us and our kids miserable.Michaeleen shares how the families she visited in other countries just seem so much happier - their kids are well-behaved and actually want to help out! We talk about letting kids sleep when they're tired instead of on our schedule, teaching them life skills instead of just shuttling them to activities, and building a community instead of being lonely and isolated.It was so eye-opening to realize we don't have to parent the way people have always done it. Tune in to hear Michaeleen's inspiring stories from around the world and get some fresh ideas on raising kids the easier, natural way. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

When every day feels like chaos, how are you supposed to make time time for your relationship? Ashley Willis co-hosts of the Naked Marriage podcast with her husband, Dave. I was so excited to sit down with her for a raw and real take on the joys and challenges of married life.We talked about balancing marriage and parenting, especially with little ones running around screaming. Like, how can you not feeling resentful towards your partner while navigating the everyday rollercoaster of parenting?Ashley shared some invaluable advice on communication, asking for help from your partner, and carving out time for each other amidst the craziness. Even down to the nitty-gritty of checking our calendars to see where our time really goes, because let's face it, parenting is tough, but our marriages don't have to suffer.Check out Ashley's show wherever you get your podcasts, and find more on my website!- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

At first I thought there was no way, but after talking to her I am seriously impressed.  Our husbands were friends in law school and now we both have kids - but let me tell you, her son has never seen a screen! At first I was like no way, but Lindsay filled me in on how they do it. Between juggling work and kid stuff, Lindsay Hall's dedication is next level. Her son is so well-spoken and curious about everything. He just plays with his toys for hours! Lindsey and I will be getting real about the challenges of maintaining a consistent screen-free parenting style, from balancing work and childcare responsibilities to preserving our own mental health.After our chat, I've really been thinking about cutting Mac and Charlie's screen time back. It's been an eye-opener learning how screens really do affect their development and sleep. If any of y'all have questions for the only no-screen mom I know, hit Lindsay up on Instagram @lindsay.w.hall. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Y'all, I'm really struggling with all the changes I've seen in youth sports. It seems like leagues are starting earlier and earlier, and the pressure to participate becomes a handful to balance along with family life. Are we pushing too hard, too young?I decided to talk with my old friend Mark Pancratz to get his opinion. Mark is not just your average sports enthusiast—he's been in the game his whole life, from playing sports himself to coaching at UT, and now, he's figuring it out with his two daughters. We talk about the value of travel sports, the financial burden, and finding the right approach: as in, let your kids do what they want. And let's not forget about the not-so-pretty side of parents' behavior at youth games—yep, we're going there.Mark and I are all about finding that sweet spot of balance. Tune in to hear if we've figured it out...- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

What would you grade yourself as a parent? In this solo episode, I'm gonna give you an honest update on what it's been like transitioning to being a full-time stay-at-home mom after working for so long.I'll fill you in on all the things I'm still struggling with, like getting Mack to school on time and keeping a consistent bedtime routine. Cooking dinner, money management, and more. And how about all the extracurricular activities? Spoiler alert: I just don't see the point of it yet!At the end of the day, I think being home has been better for my stress levels and relationships, even if it's still a work in progress. Tune in to hear all the real mom struggles - and a few successes.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Alisha Owen is an advocate for justice. In this episode, we discuss the importance of parenting, drawing boundaries, and teaching children moral values and responsibility. Alisha opens up about her own upbringing and experiences with abuse.We also talked about the goals of Alisha's organization Epstein Justice, which is calling for an independent Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate coverups of Epstein's crimes.Have you listened to part 1? Hop back to my feed to hear more about her experiences and what we can do to prevent trafficking in our own communities. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

After speaking with Nick Bryant about trafficking networks among high-profile people, I knew I needed to know more. In this first part of my conversation with Alisha Owen, it became clear that this really can happen to anyone.Alisha began her journey as a whistleblower and advocate for victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse when she was 19 years old. Now, as the Associate Director of Epstein Justice, she continues to advocate for trafficking victims, and educate the public on the realities of human trafficking and sexual abuse.Tune in to find out how this case relates to Epstein's little black book, and what we can do to prevent trafficking in our own communities. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Our pastor said we really do have more control over our kids than anyone else and that was something that really hit me. Today I want to talk about using my power as a parent for good, being consistent with discipline, and really listening to what each kid needs.Being a mom is just the wildest ride, and every kid is so different that you're constantly having to adjust. I talk about why Mac's in trouble at school this time and how I'm still trying to find the right approach with my defiant little Charlie.Overall, I'm still learning every day. For example, after doing more research, I've totally changed my views on letting babies cry it out.  I hope some of you parents out there can offer me advice, too! Find me on Instagram @lizdurham.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Get ready for a reality check. Liz sits down with and Dr. Jason Hall to peel back the layers of the "mommy makeover" phenomenon. They talk about what it really entails, the sobering truth about recovery times, and the importance of aging gracefully in a world obsessed with youth.Jason Hall, M.D., F.A.C.S., is the director of Trillium Plastic Surgery, and the host of The Trillium Show podcast. He is quick to share that it's not just about the physical—it's also about the mental headspace required for anyone considering cosmetic plastic surgery. Liz and Jason tackle the tough questions about the example we're setting for our kids and the frustration of cosmetic enhancements being passed off as "natural" or good skincare. And of course, what are the implications of social media and filters on our perception of beauty?It's a refreshingly honest dialogue that'll challenge your preconceptions and leave you wondering what beauty means to you.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Have you ever felt pressure to choose between pursuing your career ambitions or prioritizing your family responsibilities? Today, host Liz Durham is joined by successful Knoxville real estate agent Debaran Hughes to swap stories from their experiences and share how their perspectives have evolved over time.From juggling work responsibilities to battling feelings of guilt over not spending enough time with their kids, Liz and Debaran lay it all on the line. They're not afraid to confront the harsh realities of societal expectations and the uphill battle women face in the workforce after becoming mothers.Liz and Debaran offer up some hard-earned wisdom and advice for younger moms on how to navigate work-life balance without sacrificing their sanity. They're not here to sugarcoat things—they're here to tell it like it is and challenge the status quo.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Step back in time with Liz Durham and former KGB spy Jack Barsky. In part two of their conversation, Jack peels back the layers of his journey—from disillusionment with communism to his unexpected embrace of Christianity.Prepare for some straight talk as Jack shares how his experiences in the US shattered his belief in communism and led him down a path towards faith. As you'll learn, Jack's journey is filled with twists, turns, and hard-earned wisdom.Listen in as Liz and Jack dissect society, government, and the importance of individuality. From government cover-ups to the pursuit of truth, settle in for a candid exploration of faith, freedom, and the fight for truth with Liz Durham and Jack Barsky.You can check out Jack's podcast and learn more on his website.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Liz Durham first heard Jack Barsky's story on Jordan Peterson's podcast and she knew she needed to talk to him - but she didn't think in a million years he would ever respond. Jack is the author of "Deep Undercover: My Secret Life and Tangled Allegiances as a KGB Spy in America," and today his story is on Being Different. In part one of this mind-blowing interview, Jack shares his unbelievable life experience—from his days growing up under communist rule in East Germany to his recruitment by the KGB. Yep, you heard that right—spy life in the good ol' U.S. of A! Liz hears about Jack's disillusionment with communism and his newfound faith in Christianity.So, grab your popcorn (or your tin foil hat) and buckle up for a wild ride through Jack Barsky's journey from spy to believer. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Liz and Jack continue their epic conversation on faith, society, and the pursuit of freedom. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Liz lays bare her raw and real experience with postpartum emotions and body image after welcoming her third bundle of joy. From feeling like a walking zombie to battling insecurities about her post-baby bod, Liz holds nothing back as she dishes on the rollercoaster of emotions that come with new motherhood.Liz gets real about the hormonal rages and the struggle of feeling like she's not being heard by her oh-so-supportive (but sometimes clueless) husband. Spoiler alert: it's not all sunshine and rainbows!But fear not, dear listeners, because Liz isn't just here to vent—she's here to drop some truth bombs and share her newfound wisdom. Learn how Liz navigates the minefield of postpartum challenges by recognizing the importance of stepping back from conflicts and seeking solidarity from other moms.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

With the news of child sex trafficking rings running rampant, host Liz Durham wants to know: Is real justice actually served to perpetrators? In this episode, Liz sits down with journalist and author Nick Bryant to shed light on the hidden corners of child exploitation, justice, and reform.Nick shares insights from his book "The Franklin Scandal," which uncovered a trafficking network involving high-ranking officials in the 1980s - and now, seems eerily similar to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Admist claims of government and intelligence agency cover-ups, Liz and Nick emphasize the urgent need for justice for victims and reforms to prevent future concealment of child abuse by public figures.So what can we do? Liz believes that Americans may only take a stand against child sex trafficking when they personally feel the threat to themselves and their children. Tune in to find out why she argues that a visceral connection to the issue is necessary for meaningful action beyond denouncement.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Are people making their kids "soft" by protecting them too much? In this episode, our host Liz Durham is joined by Armando SanMiguel, her former boss and mentor, for a conversation about coddling and its impact on children's development. Drawing parallels from their professional experiences, Liz and Armando discuss how shielding kids from adversity can hinder their growth and resilience. Armando shares insights into his management approach and emphasizes the importance of preparing his employees for real-world challenges.The conversation doesn't stop there - what about the phenomenon of colleges prioritizing feelings over exposure to diverse ideas? Liz and Armando agree: this can lead to censorship and an entitled generation.Tune in for an honest discussion on the necessity of facing stressors and cultivating resilience to empower the next generation for success in the adult world.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Ever wondered about the secrets to raising resilient children? Turns out, farming and the animal care can offer some valuable insight. Today, Liz Durham is joined by Lexi Young Peck to discuss how she helps her kids navigate the process of life and death. They both agree: facing difficulties head-on shapes confident children who embrace challenges rather than shying away from them.After their last conversation about homebirth, in this episode Lexi shares her experiences handling a miscarriage and stillbirth, offering insights into navigating these difficult topics with children. In the face of grief, Liz and Lexi find gratitude and hope by leaning on faith, community, and open communication. Join them as they discuss the importance of not isolating oneself in sadness but, instead, seeking support from God, community, and each other.Tune in for a raw conversation that transcends the challenges of farm life to offer universal insights into raising compassionate and resilient children.Learn more about Lexi's story.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Liz Durham's experience raising chickens on her farm has been far from easy. From foxes to hawks, raccoons to skunks, Liz dishes on the relentless attacks on her feathered friends. She talks about the various predators that have attacked and killed her chickens over the past year, and shares a chaotic story about trapping and relocating a raccoon that had been decapitating her chickens. But after she posted a video online, she received backlash about animal cruelty. Find out why she's committed to protecting her chickens by any means necessary. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Modern parents are getting caught up in unneccessary fears and excessive reliance on parenting books. But after reading "Free-Range Kids: How Parents and Teachers Can Let Go and Let Grow" by Lenore Skenazy, our host Liz Durham has some new ideas about embracing a more liberating approach to parenting and fostering confident, resilient children.Now with three children, Liz shares stories of how things changed after she granted her son more independence - and what she learned while challenging societal norms. Liz also summarizes key points from the book, including analyzing a generational shift in parents harboring heightened fear.Tune in to find out why Liz encourages parents to trust their instincts to foster confident, independent, and well-rounded individuals.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production