Episodes

  • Generations Of Influential Women With Guests Singer Nadia Turner and Daughter Zareh Isa. Looking Back at S3E20

    Generations Of Influential Women With Guests Singer Nadia Turner and Daughter Zareh Isa. Looking Back at S3E20
    Aug 19 2025
    Nadia Turner was the #8 finalist on the 4th season of American Idol (2005) and Zareh, also know as Za, was only four years old. In the spring of 2022 Zareh, then 21, auditioned for AI and surprised her mother when she took her to the audition. Zareh performed “Bust Out Your Windows” by Jazmine Sullivan, which impressed the judges.It was such a pleasure to have a conversation with both mother and daughter at the same time, to share stories of Nadia's mom and grandmother as well as Za's perspective of her mother and grandmother -we're talking about four generations of strong women.Nadia says she's a very different parent today than she was in her 20's and a college student when Za was born. She's very grateful because she always new that her mother was going to be there to help her raised her two daughters. Zareh completely understands why her younger sister is being raised differently than she was. Zareh says that her mom was very strict when she was young but now she understands and appreciates why and respects her mother's decisions. It was, at times, overwhelming raising Zareh when Nadia was younger but now she's got a different attitude about raising her younger daughter, she concentrates on the things that are important, the things that really matter. Rosita, Nadia's mother, originally from the island of St. Eustatius, was a single mom who worked 9-5 at an electric company. "There's never been a time when she didn't show up for me" reflects Nadia. Rosita was very supportive of her daughter, whether it was sports or a school activity, she was always there for her regardless if she truly understood her daughters passions or interests. "I couldn't have done this thing called motherhood with out my mother, Rose," says Turner.Nadia spent quite a bit of time with her maternal grandmother, Esme, Rosita's mother. Nadia remembers her grandmother as "being my Zen, my peace, always very quiet and calm." She continues "she was very religious and always humming her hymns, she never raised her voice and for some reason, that moved mountains for me." When Nadia was a child and she and her mother got into an argument, Nadia recalls simply sitting quietly next to her grandmother and holding her hand which made everything feel alright.There's so much more to learn about my two guests and the influential women that helped them become who they are today. Always so grateful for the mothers/grandmothers and female family members who preceded us to lay down the groundwork and straightened path to keep us moving forward.When I asked Za if she stands a little taller because of these strong women in her life she responds, "my grandmother and mother are my biggest idols. I look up to them for everything they do. We are a family full of women. My grandmother is present no matter what's going on. I'm so grateful and definitely stand taller."There's so much more to these two magnificent women. Hope you enjoy the conversation.Thank you for sharing your stories Nadia and Zareh.There are links below with more information regarding Zareh and Nadia Turner's latest music and singing with the band 'Nadia Turner and the Son Kings' and more. Nadia Turner https://www.nadiaturner.com/https://linktr.ee/nadiaturnerNadia Turner American Idol 2005 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7a7ug6DkfsNadia Turner American Idol https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6d4aWIM2j_c Zareh American Idol 2022 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuEgF0rWR28Zareh Instagram-styledbyzaza https://www.instagram.com/p/BvuQ6CBHo23/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=c9062567-fbcc-47cd-bce8-bfbdee8c4142 FACEBOOK: Jackie Tantillo, SHLTMM, Nadia Turner, Zareh IsaINSTAGRAM: #jackietantillo7 #shouldhavelistenedtomymother #nadiaturnerandthesonkings #nadiacturner, #styledbyzaza #SHLTMM LINKEDIN: Jackie Tantillo, Nadia Turner 3rdTWITTER: SHLTMM, @nadiacturnerTHREADS: SHLTMM, styledbyzaza,BKSY: SHLTMM,TIKTOK: SHLTMM, dymuzic, styledbyzaza,YOUTUBE: SHLTMM, NADIA TURNER, Zareh Isa "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why ...
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    30 mins
  • “A WOMAN WHO NOT ONLY SURVIVED BUT THRIVED“ with Guest Author, Dr. Gertrude Lyons.

    “A WOMAN WHO NOT ONLY SURVIVED BUT THRIVED“ with Guest Author, Dr. Gertrude Lyons.
    Jul 29 2025
    Dorothy was the eldest of two children. Her younger brother was well taken care of and able to continue on to higher education, mainly because he was male and in that era, women didn't really pursue higher education because culturally, that wasn't the norm. Women's place was in the home and raising the children.One of the many things that my guest admired about her mother was that she opened up her own Children's Clothing store. Gertrude loved seeing her mom running a business that she was truly good at and enjoyed. Gertrude loved seeing a different side of her mother's personality, outside the home vs inside the home.Unfortunately, the store only lasted so long because of Gertrude's father's wishes. Yes, he was supportive but only up to a certain point. He also gave Dorothy an ultimatum and Dorothy agreed and made some very difficult choices that very same day and never broke her promise. The couple did not have a particularly close relationship. Gertrude's dad worked and provided for the family and the two remained married for 27 years.You will hear Gertrude share stories of the secrets her mother kept her entire life. Gertrude is so impressed and bewildered by her mother's ability to keep all of these compelling stories to herself and still be a mother, raise her children, run her own business and then continue on with another career working as an office secretary for the railroad in Detroit. One of the many wonderful philosophies my guest believes in is that she believes that she chose her mother for "my soul's development." In other words, she continues, "my soul had reasoning and she was the perfect mother for me. We are together for a reason, admits Dr. Lyons.Gertrude also shares stories of the process of writing her book as well as being brave when coming to choosing the title of her book, etc.About The BookIn Rewrite the Mother Code, Dr. Gertrude Lyons challenges the limiting beliefs and expands the concepts around what it is to be a mother. Through the pages of this book, Lyons blurs the lines that pigeonhole women into limited roles that ultimately disempower them. Rather than operating within a narrow conception of what mothering is, she invites readers to open themselves up to what is possible and see the truth: that all women mother, and that mother energy is accessible to all of us-including men. Rewrite the Mother Code is a celebration of motherhood, bringing spirituality and community back into the experience and empowering women to be what they truly are, the ultimate creators.What it would be like if it was a commonly held tradition for the wise women in our Western culture to support women through the mothering process? What if children were raised by the community and not the isolated responsibility of one or two caregivers? What if all women were united as mothers and gave their full support to each other’s mothering choices? Rewrite the Mother Code not only envisions this world of conscious conception, pregnancy, and motherhood, but it also takes the reader into a movement that fulfills the ideals of a matriarchal-led mothering experience.These ideals can open the doors for women to not only take part in the abundance of the world, but also make sure everyone else experiences it. Rewrite the Mother Code explores a world in which mothers feel valued and intrinsically aware that fostering their well-being is the keystone for conscious and harmonious living on earth—a world where there are enough resources for everyone, all life is valued, and decisions are made with everyone's best interests in mind, not just a few. It's a world where mothers are revered for their abilities to create (even ones without their own children, who journey through motherhood in many creative ways), a place where we can tap into our intuition and truly follow it.Rewrite the Mother Code blurs the lines that pigeonhole women into limited roles that ultimately disempower them. Rather than operating with a narrow conception of what mothering is, it invites you to open yourself up to what is possible when you realize that all women mother, and that mother energy is accessible to all of us—including men.In Rewrite the Mother Code, Dr. Gertrude Lyons shares her vast expertise, using her doctoral degree in education, combined with her degrees in psychology, transformational leadership, and her two decades as a coach for families, couples, and individuals. She has traveled the world and had spiritual experiences across the globe, which she brings into her work and writing.Each chapter of Rewrite the Mother Code has thoughtfully tailored reflections, meditations, and rituals to help women get in touch with their innate mother wisdom and strength. This book is a ceremony and celebration of all forms of motherhood, one that collectively births a new revolution of empowered and embodied living.SOCIAL MEDIA LINKSInstagram:LINKEDIN:Gertrude Lyons, MA, EdD, PCCView Gertrude Lyons, MA, EdD, PCC’s ...
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    30 mins
  • “Andy Warhol’s Mother, The Woman Behind The Artist” with Guest Professor and Author, Elaine Rusinko

    “Andy Warhol’s Mother, The Woman Behind The Artist” with Guest Professor and Author, Elaine Rusinko
    Jul 22 2025
    This is the story of a small Carpatho-Rusyn woman, who became know as Andy Warhol's mother. Ulia Zavacka ( pronounced Zavatski), was one of a very large farming family whose homeland today is in the North Eastern Slovakia. Today the general Rusyn population stretches across what is five European countries, including Ukraine, Slovakia, Romania, Hungary and Poland. Officials say that at the turn of the 20th century, approximately 250,000 Ruthenians, as they were known to US Immigration officials, emigrated to America where they worked in coal mines and steel mills of the northeast. Many settled in the Pittsburg. PA area. Rusyns spoke east slavic dialects that used the Cyrillic alphabet. Elaine and I spoke a lot about the similarities of both women. Julia followed her husband to America eventually having three sons and not speaking much English. Nancy, Elaine's mother, had a huge advantage and was born in the United States and spoke two languages at a young age. Both women had Carpatho-Rusyn backgrounds. It was a tough time to raise a family especially in the Pittsburgh area yet Andy's father was a good business man and was able to put some money away for Andy to go to college. Elaine shares stories of her mother moving to New York City at age of thirteen in order to help her family financially as a housekeeper/nanny/servant, as you'll hear Elaine tell the story. By moving to NYC, Nancy met her future husband who has a similar background as she. Keep in mind, that making money to help the family put food on the table was way more important than any kind of education. Nancy eventually married a coal miner from Pennsylvania and fellow Rusyn which was comforting to her. Both of these families had lingering effects of being immigrants and children of immigrants. Of parents parenting similarly as to how they had been parented. They had a lot to overcome and it can take decades if not generations to assimilate.Elaine's academic studies where shocking to her parents. They couldn't really understand why she continued with higher education because that was very foreign to both of them.And course, Andy went to what's now known as Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh and completed a Bachelor of Fine Art Degree in 1949.Julia was an artist of her own right. She was very creative especially when she was younger and in her home country. So much of her artistic talent influenced Andy and they worked closely together on projects for many years as she lived in Manhattan with Andy for almost twenty years. Julia was featured in his artistic projects with his coworkers on a regular basis.https://www.warhol.org/andy-warhols-life/ SHLTMM YOUTUBE CHANNEL LINK:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_BmWJpLNvAElaine Rusinko INSTAGRAM: rusinko17 Other Carpatho-Rusyn Related Social Media: FB: Carpatho-Rusyns Everywhere, The Lost Warhols by Karen Bystedt, Carpatho-Rusyn Society, Carpatho-Rusyn Society’s Heritage Radio Program, Carpatho-Rusyn Research Center, The Andy Warhol Museum, rusyn.sk/Rusini Slovenska IG: rusinko17, warholfoundation, carpathorusynsociety_, rusynart, carpatho_rusyns_of_pa, thewarholmuseum For more information about Elaine Rusinko and her Book "Andy Warhol's Mother, The Woman Behind the Artist, contact Lesley Rains at "The Pittsburgh University Press Email: LRAINS@upress.pitt.edu "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.Gina Kunadian"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their ...
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    25 mins
  • She Demands a lot From Those Closest To Her with Guest Career Coach And Counselor Sophee Payne. Looking Back at S3E13

    She Demands a lot From Those Closest To Her with Guest Career Coach And Counselor Sophee Payne. Looking Back at S3E13
    Jul 15 2025
    Deborah, Sophee's mother, "is in her own world and she's happy there and I come in and out of that world and that's ok," continues Payne who's never felt that she's had to live near to her parents. Payne is comfortable saying, "I care for them deeply, I just feel that closeness to them is not a priority." A Florida native, now living in Vancouver, CA, Sophee is happily ensconced in her full time career, helping other's fulfill their dreams.After six years, getting straight A's and doing all that she was 'supposed to do,' completing her bachelors degree and getting a Master's Degree in Industrial Design, she realized that she wasn't happy. My guest loved the design work but really missed the one one one interaction with people. After watching her mother struggle in an attempt to start her own business and fail, Sophee felt so much 'self doubt' that she never thought she'd be capable of starting her own. Again, interesting dynamics between the two women often got in the way. Payne feels that her mom likes having people around so they can do things for her that she doesn't necessarily like to do. "She demands a lot from the people closest to her," admits Sophee. "I think of her as a sun, even from a distance I can feel this warmth, she gives direction, but at the same time, the closer you get the more uncomfortably warm you get and also the more you're kind of forced to evolve around her," reflects Payne.Sophee is comfortable saying what works for her now regarding her relationship with her mom. It's about "showing my mom compassion, compassion with boundaries." WEBSITE: BEST LIFE COACH COLLECTIVEhttps://bestlifecoachcollective.com/coach/sophee-payne/ WEBSITE:https://www.sopheepayne.com/Hi, I’m sophee.connect with me hereI’m an ICF-accredited, international career coach based in Vancouver, Canada and Seattle who uses positive psychology, ontology, and strength-based analysis to help people identify what they are looking for — and how to find long-term happiness, growth and fulfillment in their professional and personal lives.I have worked with people from Seattle to Shanghai, and my international career counseling practice is multidisciplinary and champions people of all backgrounds. It doesn't matter who you are because if you're willing to do the work, career counseling will give you the career of your dreams.Want to connect? Apply for a complimentary 25-minute intro call! Discover Morehttps://www.instagram.com/sopheepaynecareercoaching/https://www.sopheepayne.com/bloghttps://www.tiktok.com/@purposewithmoney "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.Gina Kunadian"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed many ...
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    28 mins
  • Proud And Passionate About Her Nursing Profession With Guest Chef Dennis Littley. Looking Back at S3E17

    Proud And Passionate About Her Nursing Profession With Guest Chef Dennis Littley. Looking Back at S3E17
    Jul 1 2025
    Eunice was a confident hard working woman, that loved God, her country and her family. She was proud of her accomplishments and rightfully so. Chef Dennis is a successful classically trained chef, now retired and a very popular travel and food blogger. He prefers to cook for others rather than cook a meal for himself. His grandmother taught him a lot about food and cooking and she passed down "the joy of cooking." And now Dennis is sharing the 'joy of it' with all of his readers. You can find out more at https://www.askchefdennis.com/ Dennis's maternal grandparents were originally from Mexico and both were highly educated. His grandmother was a teacher and his grandfather a minister. Eunice and her nine siblings were also all educated starting at a young age. All the children were born and raised in Texas and bilingual from an early age. Littley says of his mother's family "they were an all American family-all my uncles served in the Armed Forces and an uncle was at Pearl Harbor." Because Eunice was always studying and/or working, she never really had too much time to cook. She often worked nights so she could be home to see Dennis before and after school. Chef Dennis says that his mom, who he adored dearly, "influenced him and his love for cooking in an offhanded way." "Her lack of cooking skills and my love of food and her encouragement really helped push me in the right direction. She was the reason I really started cooking and went int this field." says Littley. Dennis loved to cook for his mom and says "I was never pressured into being a doctor or lawyer, my mother just wanted me to be happy." But he took care of his mom as well. At a young age, he would collect recyclable bottles and cans, ride his bike to the supermarket and buy food with the money he made to cook for his mom because she didn't have time to cook for herself. Dennis agrees that he gave his parents a hard time, a bit rambunctious, but he was named after the 'Dennis the Menace' tv character, after all.My guest, got his first full time job at 12 years old and became manager of a burger place, flipping burgers at 13 in Atlantic City, New Jersey right on the ocean.When asked what meal he'd cook for his mom if she were here today, Dennis reminisces about the rice, pepper, onion, bacon and cheddar cheese casserole his mom and he loved to eat till the dish was empty and everyone was happy. Later on in life, once Eunice had retired from nursing, she was able to embrace her time in the kitchen with her friends and found the ‘joy of cooking’. "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.Gina Kunadian"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed many ...
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    33 mins
  • My Mother's Ten Commandments with Guest Best Selling Author Marc Gellman

    My Mother's Ten Commandments with Guest Best Selling Author Marc Gellman
    Jun 24 2025
    Though Dorothy was somewhat opinionated, she truly had a big heart. During my conversation with Marc, he shares story after story that had us laughing but Dorothy was the kind of woman who liked things done her way and it was best for everyone that you kept that in mind.She loved keeping a clean house. It was duly important that her sons did well in school but what was clearly obvious was how much she loved her family. Dinners together every night was a must. Everyone had to share what happened during their day and what they had learned.Marc has a number of very funny stories of his mother but what really rings true to me is that Dorothy had a huge heart. There's one story in particular that you'll hear my guest share that's heartbreaking yet so indicative of what kind of person Dorothy was and how she was constantly teaching her two sons life lessons."Seven Days of Shiva:Forty-Six Years of Puppy Love," has put Marc on the Amazon Best Selling Author list. It's the heartwarming and heartbreaking story of he and the love of his life, Barbara.Our conversation will have you laughing and in tears, but it's powerful messages are worth every every second. My mother began to list her “commandments” for being a good husband. Number 1: As a husband, you should learn to keep your mouth shut.Number 2: Your wife should be in charge of running the household.Number 3: It’s not your place to plan the dinner meals. Your wife should plan that, and you should be happy with it.Number 4: Your wife should be in charge of the checking account.Number 5: Your wife should be in charge of paying the bills.Number 6: You should not cash your paycheck on the way home. Bring your check home, uncashed.Number 7: You should turn down invitations from your friends at work to go out after work.Number 8: You should go directly home after work to your wife.Number 9: You shouldn’t concern yourself with what other people have. Number 10: You should be satisfied with what you and your wife have."When my mother was finished with her list, she said, “So, you understand what I’m saying?”“Yes,” Marc responded. Social Media Links: Website:marcgellman.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcgellmanauthor Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/benjaminsgrandpa/ You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9d3kIi9koeaQGKKsTQupTQ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marc.gellman Book - Landing Page: https://marcgellman.com/seven-days-shiva/ Video Trailer on You Tube: https://youtu.be/0CDB5AjFVcc Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1737522306 https://amzn.to/3HZ7cYz "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.Gina Kunadian"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.Jackie has worked in ...
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    30 mins
  • When Feeling Most Vulnerable, My Mom Was a Gift with Guest West African Journalist Chisom Peter Job. Looking Back at S3E16

    When Feeling Most Vulnerable, My Mom Was a Gift with Guest West African Journalist Chisom Peter Job. Looking Back at S3E16
    Jun 17 2025
    Life sometimes has a funny way of turning out. Sometimes a dire situation presents itself and the outcome is much better than we could have ever imagined. In this particular case, it took a mother to show her true love, courage and support and possibly willingly risk jail time to prove to her son that she loved him with her whole heart. While convalescing at home, Chisom finally was courageous enough to come out to his loving parents. Bedridden and home bound after his initial collapse, he was convinced it was time to open up to his parents about his sexuality. At a most vulnerable time in his life, he was scared and nervous about telling his parents the truth, that he was gay. He was certain that both his parents loved him unconditionally but was afraid this was going to be too much for them. "Knowing that my parents loved me so much, made it that much easier to come out to them and be open with them," added Chisom. His mother's response was " I know, I've always known," says my guest.On a grander scale, writing a personal essay about being a member of the LGBTQ community and having his story published in the NY Times Modern Love Column was frighting. Possibly the whole world could read it and find out the truth, that Chisom was a member of the gay community. Chisom's essay is an endearing story of his parent's love for their son. His mother, who's name is Gift, is exceptionally open and honest and loving of her son, regardless of his sexual preference. One can only hope, that everyone struggling with coming out to their loved ones, will receive the same openness and acceptance.Chisom's message to his mother "You are a rock star. You are a gift to me. And I love you very much. Words can't describe how much I love you and how much you mean to me. Everything I do, I do it for you. You are always there for me and you always support me. You always tell me to shoot for the stars".**In February 2021, Chisom has hired to be the Deputy Editor and Culture and Technology reporter of @Livingfree_UK. https://livingfreeuk.org/"Living Free UK is a registered community interest company founded in 2018 out of the struggles of millions of LGBTIQ+ Africans who are still battling with their sexuality and gender identity, especially in countries where it is still illegal to live their truth and in some cases lose their lives while trying to find liberty and acceptance.Our main aim is to provide support and validate the lived experiences of LGBTIQ+ Africans, people seeking asylum, and refugees. As research shows, there are 72 countries where homosexuality is still a crime and even in the UK, LGBTIQ+ Africans experience immense difficultly when finding a safe space to express themselves freely and openly without fear of racism, afrophobia, or prejudice of any kind. Some are also unable to return home because of the danger that awaits them.**Now a budding journalist and recent nominee for a journalistic award- this is from Chisom's LinkedIn Acct. (March 2022)"Yesterday was the Future Awards Africa, and I was nominated for the journalism prize and was also the second youngest nominee in the awards. While I didn't win, I'm grateful for the opportunity to be seen.As a young journalist covering policies and minority groups in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, the work I do can be pretty dangerous, but getting nominated for this is a "stepping stone," as my ma put it. Also, I did receive a certificate of nomination, so yay!!Here is to more extraordinary things in 2022 and beyond because I am just getting started." https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/nigeria/10570304/Nigeria-passes-law-banning-homosexuality.htmlThe Act to Make Provisions for the Prohibition of Relationship Between Persons of the Same Sex, Celebration of Marriage by Them, and for Other Matters Connected Therewith, also known as the Same Sex (Prohibition) Act 2006, was a controversial draft bill that was first put before the both houses of the National Assembly of Nigeria in early 2007. Seven years later, another draft was passed into legislation by president Goodluck Jonathan as the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2013**Link To March 2022 NY Times Modern Love Essay: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/11/style/modern-love-heart-attack-gay-nigeria.html?https://managingeditor.com/chisom-peter-job-creating-content-for-communities/WEBSITE: https://chisomjob.com/ Twitter: @chisompeterjobInstagram: chisompeterjobLinkedIn:Chisom Peter Job "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”...
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    21 mins
  • "A Woman of Quiet Strength and Resilience” with Guest Business Strategist and Engineer, Sairan Aqwari

    "A Woman of Quiet Strength and Resilience” with Guest Business Strategist and Engineer, Sairan Aqwari
    Jun 10 2025
    Sadiqa, my guest's mother, was fifteen years old when she became a mother for the first time as part of an arranged marriage in Baghdad, Iraq in 1955. She was a wonderful mother but Sairan thought a bit too cautious which is very common for a teenager to think. Having a more conservative husband, Sadiqa loved all of her children equally and would often do anything for them. She was more lenient that her husband. My guest was one of seven children, safely nestled in the middle of the large group of children.With no formal education, she never did any professional training, she was beautiful, had a wonderful sense of humor and did everything for her children as her husband travelled frequently for business. In Sairan's mind, her mother "had seven PHD's because she raised seven wonderful children, each one unique.Unfortunately, Sadiqua died unexpectedly at fifty-eight years old and Sairan wasn't able to introduce her first child to her mother in person.Sairan is a Business Strategist and Engineer but she also is helping people unpack their hidden gem. Often, we think we are happy-working, taking care of the family, seeing friends, etc. But, Sairan, who was born in Bagdad and now an Iraqi American citizen, learned many life lessons at 26 years old when she came to the United States with her big American dreams. Today, she's a mom, entrepreneur and very successful engineer, but she's come to appreciate the belif of making and impact in the workd and that obstacles can be overcome. "Voices of Truth" is a compilation of engaging speakers sharing their stories of impact. Sairan is on the the contributing authors.As one can expect, being so far away from family, at such a young age, had it's challenges and heartbreak. And it was such an honor to hear Sairan share stories of her mother. Unfortunately, things didn't work out as planned back in 2002 but I'm grateful that Sairan felt comfortable opening up to me.My guest has launched another career where she's helping middle aged women and men take their next steps in life to figure out who they are, what they want to do with their lives and what kind of impact they want to have on the world.I received wonderful emails from Sairan including these wonderful tidbits about her mother. She wrote "my relationship with my mother has been both foundational and transformative. She was a woman of quiet strength and resilience, and while our bond wasn’t always expressed through words, her actions taught me the value of perseverance, integrity, and grace under pressure. She laid the groundwork for the woman I’ve become—both as an engineer and a business strategist—by modeling the power of showing up fully, even when the odds are stacked against you.I was drawn to your podcast because I believe these stories matter. The influence of our mothers or female role models often shapes our identity in powerful, often subtle, ways. I wanted to share insights on how that influence—especially in midlife—can become a springboard for reinvention. For many women, midlife feels like a cross roads. But with the right mindset, it can be a launch pad. That’s a message I hope will inspire your audience to reflect on their own journeys and the women who helped shape them."There are many wonderful stories that Sairan shared with me. I hope you enjoy this episode. And take a part of Saduqa with you where ever you go. SOCIAL MEDIA:LINKEDIN: Sairan Aqrawi, M.Sc.INSTAGRAM: sairanaqrawiEngineering Innovator | Leadership Strategist | Transformational Team Lead | Communication Specialist | Team Performance ExpertWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)The George Washington University - School of Engineering & Applied ScienceWashington DC-Baltimore Area Contact infoLet's Set Up a Meeting T AN IMPACT IN THE WORLD / AND THAT “OBSTACLES CAN BE OVERCOME”. "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in...
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    33 mins