This episode marks the launch of One on One with Anushay, a new series born out of this moment, when staying quiet is no longer an option. While women’s health remains at the center of this show, the crises unfolding around us demand that we zoom out, get informed, and begin organizing together across movements.

Joined by Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action and author of Fired Up, for a raw and urgent conversation about why being labeled “too political” is not a liability, but a responsibility. Shannon unpacks the pressure women face to stay silent, the myth that neutrality is safety, and why silence, especially from those with privilege, only reinforces systems that harm the most vulnerable.

We talk about Minnesota as a wake-up call, the dangerous illusion that someone else will save us, and what history teaches us about power, privilege, and consequences. Shannon shares hard truths about organizing, accountability, and why real change has never come from politeness but from collective action that risks comfort and demands more.

This conversation is a reminder that politics is already shaping our lives, whether we engage or not. And that the only way forward is together, using our voices, our skills, and our willingness to show up.

Episode Resources:

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To learn more about Anushay Hossain's work, check out Anushay's website or sign up for her substack. To continue the conversation, feel free to DM @anushayhossain or email me at thepaingap@gmail.com