S3, Ep 2: Charleston, Rurality, and Feminist Activism with Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch

S4, Ep 1: The Ethics of Discomfort: Christina García on Ecofeminism, Friendship, and Creative "Sorcery"

This episode of What IFF? we had a conversation with the new director of WGS, Dr. Christina García (she/her). We explore how feminist and queer theory can reshape the way we think about bodies, environments, community, and even creativity itself. In addition, Dr. García discusses her leadership approach, which centers on listening, learning, and supporting a program rooted in collaborative feminist practice.

S3, Ep 5: Third spaces and intersectional communities

This episode of What IFF? We had a conversation with Dr. Naomi Simmons (she/her) and WGS major Mo Spragins (she/they) about the importance of third spaces and how they foster community on our campus and in the world we live in. We also discuss third spaces in relation to hustle culture, self and community care, and more. Support the CofC Pride Center at https://give.cofc.edu/pride-center [https://give.cofc.edu/pride-center]

S3, Ep 4: Accessibility, Accommodations, and Belonging in Education

In this episode of What IFF?, we are exploring conversations about disability, accessibility, and accommodations in academic spaces with Bilal N. (he/him) and Dr. John Thomas III (he/him). Bilal will provide a student point of view regarding hustle culture, campus neurodiversity, individualism, and the ableist standards that people are held to within institutions. Dr. Thomas speaks about the importance of balance in a busy life, and ways that he implements accommodations in his classes as a professor. Additionally, he provides insight about his encounters with accessibility from other institutions and other life experiences. *UDL: “Universal Design for Learning;” learn more here [https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/tools-tips/universal-design-learning-introduction]. For campus resources, visit charleston.edu/accessibility [http://charleston.edu/accessibility].

S3, Ep 3: Transgender Healthcare and Contraceptive Care

In this episode of WHAT IFF? we are joined by Kit Fischer, a dedicated advocate for transgender health, to shed light on the critical gaps in reproductive healthcare for trans individuals. Together, we delve into common misconceptions, such as the mistaken belief that trans men cannot get pregnant while on testosterone, and how these myths impact access to essential contraceptive care.  Kit shares his personal experiences and expertise, offering valuable insights into navigating healthcare as a trans person, including how to advocate for yourself in medical settings. We discuss practical resources like inclusive healthcare resources, support networks, and educational tools for both patients and providers to bridge gaps in understanding and improve outcomes. This episode also explores actionable strategies for healthcare providers to create affirming environments, from using inclusive language to recognizing the diverse needs of trans patients. With a focus on dismantling stigma and empowering individuals, we envision a future where reproductive healthcare is accessible, compassionate, and affirming for all. Join us for an essential conversation that challenges misconceptions, amplifies trans voices, and offers a roadmap for building more inclusive systems of care. Resources Mentioned in Episode * “Standards of Care 8 | WPATH,” n.d. https://wpath.org/publications/soc8/ [https://wpath.org/publications/soc8/].

S3, Ep 2: Charleston, Rurality, and Feminist Activism with Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch

In this episode of WHAT IFF? we discuss rurality and feminism with Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch and guest host Aaliya Wiggs, a College of Charleston 1967 Scholar.  Dr. Jones-Branch is the Dean of the graduate school at Arkansas University, a College of Charleston alum, a professor of history, a scholar of rural, agricultural, African American, and women’s history– and she was born and raised here in Charleston. In our discussion, we talk about Dr. Jones-Branch’s experience growing up in Adams Run, SC, concern regarding urbanization, black feminist activism, and the importance of rural communities. We highlight intersections between classism, racism, and sexism as we discuss how rurality has been greatly overlooked for its community connection and cultural significance. Check out Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch’s book: Better Living By Their Own Bootstraps: Black Women’s Activism in Rural Arkansas Thank you to Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch and Aaliya Wiggs for making this episode possible!