The podcast our group chose is one from the Medical Confessions Podcast titled, What Causes Meth-mouth/Methamphetamines. The key points this podcast touches on are as follows: What is meth and what does it do? Next, this podcast speaks on the history of meth use throughout the country and the world. After that the podcast discusses the symptoms of meth, physical, mental, and emotional. Finally, it concludes by speaking on different reasons why people start using meth and also why it is such a hard addiction to break. It is important to note that although the individuals who speak on this podcast have done a lot of research and are experts on the topic, they are not doctors.
Our group chose the song We Shall Overcome by Nahko and Medicine for the People because it is a powerful piece of music that isn’t afraid to mention a multitude of social change issues. This song talks about the struggles we as a nation and also individuals are going through. Some of these issues are current and some are from the past. To name a few; racism, poverty, assault, environmental issues, oil controversy, sexism, war, government, gun control and addictions are all mentioned in this song. Although there are so many negative issues being brought to the surface during these few minutes of music, this song is filled with strength, power and urgency for change. It’s an inspiring song to listen to because even with the above mentioned social issues, the artists behind this piece say they are able to forgive. Many times they repeat the phrase “I remember, I remember, I remember, I forgive.” We think this line is incredibly powerful because true healing and change doesn’t exist until forgiveness has occurred. If we can forgive the past, we can move forward even stronger and overcome the obstacles the past has thrown at all of us. There are many songs in this world that highlight the social issues we are all going through, however, very few of them have a positive message intertwined. This song may be blunt and to the point, but it doesn’t leave the listener feeling hopeless. It will hopefully leave listeners with a feeling of empowerment, and knowledge that we can make change!