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Why Don't We Talk About This?

Why Don't We Talk About This?

By: Paula McMillan-Perez LCSW
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You already know that there are a bunch of things people talk about in pockets or completely avoid. Things that may be controversial or uncomfortable but we need to get them off our chest. During "Why Don’t We Talk About This?", licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist, Paula McMillan-Perez speaks with folks whose learned experiences and/or professions give way to a diverse knowledge of topics that we just aren't talking about...but should be!

© 2026 Why Don't We Talk About This?
Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Talking about Sleep Inertia
    Jun 2 2026

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    During this episode, Paula breaks open the concept of sleep inertia, explaining it as a temporary state of grogginess and confusion experienced after waking up. She notes the time that sleep inertia can last, as well as the contributing factors that can extend it if one is sleep-deprived. Paula emphasizes that sleep inertia is a normal biological process and not a condition. She suggests strategies to mitigate it and also highlights the importance of recognizing sleep inertia's impact on daily life and safety.

    In this episode, you will hear:
    + defining sleep inertia
    + symptoms and impact
    + normalization and common phrases
    + impact on daily life and safety
    + strategies to manage

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    Got a topic you want explored on a future episode? Please email us at whydontwetalkaboutthispod@gmail.com


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    30 mins
  • Talking about NY Regents Changing and What It Means
    May 19 2026

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    Paula discusses the impact of New York State's changing high school graduation requirements, specifically the phasing out of Regents exams by 2028. She highlights the emotional and academic pressures these exams impose on students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. She emphasizes the importance of respectful discussions and the need for support systems to help students navigate these changes. Paula outlines the new "Portrait of a Graduate" system, which will replace the Regents requirement for graduation with various demonstrations of learning, and stresses the need for community involvement and mental health support to address the broader systemic issues in education.

    In this episode, you will hear:
    + impact of Regents exams on students
    + transition to Portrait of a Graduate
    + challenges and emotional impact
    + supporting students through change
    + educational equity and systemic pressures

    Resources:

    FAQ Related to NYS Graduation Measures Initiative:

    https://www.nysed.gov/grad-measures/frequently-asked-questions-related-new-york-state-graduation-measures-initiative

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    Got a topic you want explored on a future episode? Please email us at whydontwetalkaboutthispod@gmail.com


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    39 mins
  • Talking about the Impact of COVID-19 on Children & Adolescents with Rachael Goren, MPH, Psy.D.
    May 12 2026

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    Rachael and Paula discuss the disruption in developmental milestones, increased anxiety, and OCD rates among youth associated with COVID-19. Rachel emphasized the need for a national conversation on these issues and highlighted her agency's efforts by hosting an upcoming conference: From Disruption to Integration. Rachel also shares personal experiences, strategies for resilience, healing, self-care, and community support.

    In this episode, you will hear:
    + challenges faced by different age groups
    + parental struggles and coping mechanisms
    + role of tech and overstimulation
    + importance of community and support
    + planning for the future and resilience

    Guest Bio:

    Dr. Rachael Goren is co-owner and Director of Training and Outreach at Learning Solutions in Northampton, Massachusetts, and a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychological and neuropsychological assessment, training, and professional development. She holds a BA from Brandeis University in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies and Women’s Studies, an MPH from UMass Amherst, and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Antioch University New England. Her specialties include ADHD, giftedness/twice exceptionality, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, eating disorders, mood disorders, and women’s health across developmental stages. She has worked in schools, hospitals, and colleges, and is also a former educator and yoga instructor.

    Contact/Socials:
    Email: rgoren@learningsolutionsls.com
    Facebook: Learning Solutions
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learning.solutions.noho
    Website: Learning Solutions, Northampton

    Conference:
    From Disruption to Integration: What COVID-10 Changed, What it Revealed and How We Build Resilience Together (Tickets)

    Coupon Code: WDWTAT10


    And for social workers, LMHCS, and psychologists- CEs are available!


    Follow us on Instagram!

    Got a topic you want explored on a future episode? Please email us at whydontwetalkaboutthispod@gmail.com


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    52 mins
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