In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a horrifying campaign is unfolding—one that targets not soldiers, but children. In this episode, we delve into the heartbreaking reality of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly deported, indoctrinated, and erased from their roots under the guise of "rescue missions."

From mass abductions to forced adoptions and identity erasure, we explore how these acts violate international law—and the deep emotional and cultural scars they leave behind.

We then take a personal and hopeful turn—into the intimate world of modern motherhood. From trauma of war reporting to the quiet magic of a toddler’s first words, we explore the transformative nature of parenting, the joy of watching a child blossom, and the challenges faced by mothers navigating broken systems.

This episode is a meditation on innocence—in peril and in progress—and why protecting children means protecting our shared humanity.

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This episode of "Dispatches with Hollie McKay" delves into the forgotten crisis of the Uyghur Muslim minority in China, detailing their mass disappearances into re-education and labor camps and the global silence, largely due to economic interests.

Dennis and Hollie then discuss a concerning trend of declining empathy worldwide, exacerbated by social media, where indifference is becoming normalized. Finally, they address the disturbing online hostility towards expressions of compassion for suffering children, particularly in conflict zones, highlighting the dangerous politicization of innocent lives.

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Growing up in rural Iceland, raising a daughter as a young, single mom brings unique challenges and rewards. In this episode, I sit down with Asa Porsteinsdottir to explore the balance between isolation and community, the impact of Iceland’s progressive maternity and paternity leave policies, and the benefits of fresh, albeit expensive, local foods. We also delve into the pros and cons of parenting in this stunning but cold part of the world, sharing insights on what makes Iceland an unforgettable place to raise a family.

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In this enlightening episode, we sit down with New York-based, German publicist Nadja Atwal to discuss the challenges and triumphs of juggling motherhood and a thriving career. Nadja shares her unique insights on integrating children into daily work life, how the German parenting and disciplinary style compares to American approaches, and her personal experiences navigating the U.S. and German healthcare systems. She also opens up about the resilience required to mother through two cancer treatments and the realities of plane travel with toddlers. Nadja also offers her perspective on what the U.S. can do to become a more pro-family nation.

Follow Nadja on Instagram @nadjaatwal

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Join me in an illuminating conversation with Anna McMahon, an international educator, coaching psychologist, and founder of Enhanced Wellbeing. Anna shares her journey from growing up in Ireland to living in London, China, Sri Lanka, and now Vietnam, offering deep insights into international education, Asian family values, and the beauty of cross-cultural connection. In this episode, Anna takes us through her unique experiences of motherhood in Asia, from giving birth in Sri Lanka to her current pregnancy in Vietnam, and shares invaluable wisdom on pre- and postnatal care, healthcare systems, and balancing the demands of business and family. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intersection of career and parenthood on a global scale.

Follow Anna: https://www.instagram.com/enhanced.wellbeing

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In this eye-opening episode, I speak with Cameroonian father of four NCHE Sam Tako, a mental health advocate and founder of FOMCAM who sheds light on the harsh realities of raising a family in a country torn apart by violence over French and English language divisions. Sam opens up about the impact of postpartum depression and poverty on mental health, the tireless effort to reduce the stigma, and the immense challenges of giving birth and raising children in an active conflict zone. We also explore Sam's passion for entrepreneurship, the importance of starting work young, and his ongoing fight for accessible education for all.

This is a candid look at resilience, hope, and the power of community amidst chaos.

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Hollie McKay shares her firsthand experience from her recent trip to the Darfurian refugee camps on the Chad/Sudan border. She provides a heartbreaking and eye-opening account of the women enduring unimaginable hardship in the wake of wartime sexual violence, loss of loved ones, and the depletion of resources in the camps. Hollie delves into the devastating human toll of the ongoing conflict, offering insights into the real situation on the ground. From stories of resilience to the grim realities of survival in such extreme conditions, this conversation offers a rare and unfiltered perspective on one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises.

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In this compelling episode, I sit down with a U.S. Army Ranger veteran and ER doctor Matt Tipton who shares his extraordinary journey from rural East Tennessee to the U.S Army and emergency medicine. Matt opens up about raising three children post-divorce, the complexities of male mental health, and navigating the realities of school shootings in today’s America.

Our conversation delves into the pressing issues he encounters in the ER, including the leading causes for children’s visits, and his insights on the alarming rise in America’s maternal mortality rate. A thoughtful discussion on service, survival, and the health of a nation in crisis.

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