In this episode, host Emilia Rivadeneira sits down with Amy Sentementes, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Queens University of Charlotte, to explore how election season can impact relationships and conversations with family during the holidays. Sentementes shares practical tips to help students navigate challenging discussions with loved ones who hold opposing views. Additionally, Alianna Brooks, Editor-in-Chief of The Nubian Message, provides a semester news roundup, highlighting the publication’s standout coverage and stories. Visit The Nubian Message’s website to read more.
In this episode, host Emilia Rivadeneira speaks with Robert Scheller, Associate Dean for Research in the College of Natural Resources at North Carolina State University, about the causes behind the recent L.A. wildfires that erupted on January 7. Scheller discusses the broader implications of these fires, including their potential effects on the East Coast, and delves into the connections between climate change and global warming. Acknowledging how overwhelming climate news can feel, Scheller concludes the episode with an inspiring message of hope and practical strategies listeners can adopt to tackle these challenges.
As the holiday season sparkles to life and the clock inches closer to a new year, this episode is a warm toast to traditions, laughter, and the magic of festive customs. I’m joined by Lucas Ciscato, who brings stories of Italian Christmas dinners, the whimsical La Befana, and the symbolic ritual of burning away the old to welcome the new.
We wander through snowy German Christmas markets, savor Dutch “oliebollen,” and marvel at Russian New Year’s traditions involving champagne glasses and ashes of wishes—a quirky nod to hope and good fortune. Along the way, we laugh about group Halloween costumes and ponder how traditions shape not only our holidays but also our identities.
Through these tales, I reflect on the joy of connecting with loved ones, the meaning of home during the holidays, and the fun of quirky customs—like sitting in red underwear for good luck or scribbling your dreams on paper before midnight.
As 2025 approaches, let this episode be your cozy companion, filled with good vibes, gratitude, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. Thank you for an incredible semester and for being part of “The Identity Library”! Here’s to your New Year’s resolutions, a festive break, and all the champagne glasses brimming with possibilities. May we see each other next semester again.
