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America, Can We Talk? Because I Think We’re All Experiencing a Cultural Midlife Crisis.

A hilarious but sharp cultural commentary: why America feels like it’s going through a national midlife crisis. Humor, truth, politics, empowerment, and metaphysical insight—all in one viral-ready blog by author A.L. Childers.

Somewhere between TikTok conspiracy theories, politicians fighting on camera like it’s WWE, teenagers diagnosing each other with 47 personality disorders, and grown adults believing they’re “healers” because they bought sage from Amazon…
America has officially entered its cultural midlife crisis.

And honestly?
She’s not handling it well.

This is the national equivalent of buying a red sports car, getting bangs, and announcing you’re “rediscovering yourself” in the middle of Costco.

When did we become a country that can’t function without a soft life playlist and a $9 latte?

Listen. I love a latte.
But somewhere along the way, the nation decided that all problems—from political scandals to existential dread—could be solved with:

  • manifestation
  • healing crystals
  • a seasonal candle
  • and maybe a Stanley cup the size of a toddler

We’re living in a timeline where self-care has become a competitive sport, Congress live-streams its arguments for clicks, and parents are fighting battles in school pickup lines that used to be reserved for medieval kingdoms.

Meanwhile, the government is out here gaslighting everyone like a toxic ex.

“Oh no, there’s no corruption.”
“We’re definitely using your tax dollars wisely.”
“That money went where? Into what? Oh… look over there! A new social issue to argue about!”

And somehow, half the population is too exhausted (or too overstimulated) to push back, and the other half is busy filming content for followers they secretly hate.

Women are in their ‘I’m too tired to pretend’ era—and honestly, it’s iconic.

We’re raising kids, husbands, pets, aging parents, and everyone’s emotional baggage.

We’re holding the entire economy together—
while trying to regulate cortisol, fix our thyroids, heal childhood trauma, and remember what we walked into the room for.

We are DONE with nonsense.
We are DONE with silent suffering.
We are DONE letting society tell us what to do.

If America is in a midlife crisis, women are the ones driving the car while everyone else in the backseat screams over the radio.

And don’t even get me started on the metaphysical awakening happening right now.

Half the country is suddenly spiritual.
The other half is scared of the first half.
And the third half—because math doesn’t matter anymore—
is trying to figure out if aliens, ancestors, or energy vampires are responsible for why they’re tired every day.

People are burning incense, cleansing houses, reading tarot, talking to spirit guides, and I’m over here like:

“Ma’am, you are not overwhelmed because of Mercury retrograde.
You are overwhelmed because your husband acts like a third child.”

So what’s the point of all this?

America’s cultural midlife crisis is messy, loud, dramatic, and deeply unserious—but it’s also the perfect moment for a reset.

This chaos is showing us exactly what we don’t want anymore:

  • fake politicians
  • fake empowerment
  • fake wellness
  • fake morality
  • fake “perfect families” on social media
  • and fake narratives that tell women to stay quiet

We’re entering a cultural reawakening—
And underneath the humor, there’s a serious truth:

America is cracking open. And what comes next is up to the people who are tired of pretending everything is fine.


American culture satire, cultural commentary 2025, women’s empowerment, government corruption humor, spiritual awakening funny, mom life humor blog, social commentary viral blog, A.L. Childers author, thyroid empowerment, political satire 2025, metaphysical commentary


#AmericanCulture #CulturalCommentary #WomensVoices #HumorWriting #PoliticalSatire #MomLifeHumor #MetaphysicalAwakening #ALChilders #ViralBlog #ThyroidHealth #GovernmentCritique #SpiritualHumor


About the Author

A.L. Childers (Audrey Childers) is a nationally emerging author known for blending humor, truth, social commentary, history, health, and metaphysics into powerful, unforgettable writing. With over 200 published books, she explores everything from government corruption to women’s empowerment, spiritual protection, thyroid health, Appalachian folklore, and the hidden mechanics of power.
Her work can be found on Amazon, TheHypothyroidismChick.com, and across social platforms where readers follow her for honesty, insight, and real-world wisdom.


A.L. Childers is the author of over 200 books spanning investigative nonfiction, history, spirituality, political analysis, women’s empowerment, and social commentary. Her writing blends deep research with lived experience, often exploring the systems that shape—and limit—ordinary lives.

Her bestselling titles include:

If you enjoyed this piece, explore Audrey’s books and blog for deeper dives into power, policy, and the people caught in between.


Disclaimer:

This blog is for commentary, entertainment, and informational purposes only. It includes humor, opinion, and social critique and should not be interpreted as legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. All content reflects the author’s viewpoints at the time of writing.

To the Dreamers of the 80’s… and the Scroll-Weary Generation of Today

“To the dreamers of the 80’s who made mixtapes, traded secrets under neon lights, and believed time was theirs to spend.
And to today’s generation—may you learn that your hours are worth more than algorithms.”


🎶 When Time Was Ours

The 1980’s were alive with creativity and connection. We spent hours making mixtapes for friends, recording songs off the radio, hanging out at malls and roller rinks, or sitting on bedroom floors trading secrets under neon posters. Time felt abundant, and boredom wasn’t a curse—it was a spark.

Back then, we weren’t refreshing feeds. We were living.


📱 When Time Became a Product

Fast-forward to today, and our hours feel stolen. Social media has monetized boredom, turned attention into currency, and replaced presence with performance. As Shoshana Zuboff writes in The Age of Surveillance Capitalism, we’ve become raw material for an attention economy that profits from our distraction.

Studies confirm it too: according to the American Psychological Association (2023), adults spend an average of 3+ hours per day scrolling social media. That’s over 45 days a year—gone. Not spent on creativity, love, or freedom, but swallowed by algorithms.


💡 Why I Wrote About This

I’m A.L. Childers—author, truth-seeker, nostalgic soul, and someone who has lived through both the mixtape era and the TikTok age.

  • In Silent Chains: Breaking Free from Conformity and Injustice, I exposed how conformity and systemic control shape our daily lives.
  • In The Hidden Empire: A Journey Through Millennia of Oligarchic Rule, I revealed how power has always stolen time and freedom from ordinary people.
  • And now, in The Endless Feed, the Empty Day: From 80’s Mixtapes to TikTok, I’m bridging those truths with lived nostalgia—reminding readers that our hours are sacred, and they belong to us, not to screens.

I know what it feels like to lose time to systems built to exploit us. I also know what it feels like to take it back. My writing is here to show you how to do the same.


📚 Why You Should Read My Books

Because they aren’t just books. They’re lifelines.

  • If you’ve ever felt trapped in the cycle of endless scrolling, I’ve been there.
  • If you’ve ever felt crushed by conformity, I’ve fought it.
  • If you’ve ever felt like your hours are slipping away, I’ve found ways to reclaim mine—and I’m sharing them with you.

I’m not writing for corporations, for clicks, or for algorithms. I’m writing for you—for the dreamers, the seekers, the rebels, the ones who know life is more than likes.


📖 Resources & References

  • Zuboff, S. (2019). The Age of Surveillance Capitalism. PublicAffairs.
  • American Psychological Association (2023). U.S. adults average 3+ hours per day on social media.
  • Newport, C. (2019). Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World. Penguin Press.

🎤 About the Author

A.L. Childers is a multi-genre author whose work spans history, health, metaphysics, and memoir. Raised in the 80’s and living in the digital age, she brings a unique perspective that blends nostalgia, truth, and raw honesty. Her catalog—including Silent Chains and The Hidden Empire—exposes hidden systems of control while offering practical and empowering ways to reclaim freedom.

She is not afraid to say what others won’t. And that’s why her books stand out.


💥 Final Word

If you want to laugh, cry, reflect, and finally take your life back from the algorithm—pick up one of my books. Because I’m not just writing words. I’m writing weapons for freedom. And yes, I’m that fucking fantastic.

Cancer: The Cure We’re Not Supposed to Find? 💊💰

In the cartoon above, two researchers stand in a lab. One says, “Yes, finding a cure for cancer would be the greatest thing since sliced bread. But remember that not finding it is how we butter our bread.”

It’s satire — but it hits a nerve. The truth is, cancer has become a trillion-dollar industry. For many, the thought that cures may have been discovered (and buried) isn’t far-fetched.

📜 A Brief History of Cancer

  • The Oldest Cases: Cancer is not a modern disease. The earliest written descriptions appear in ancient Egypt around 1600 BCE in the Edwin Smith Papyrus, describing breast tumors treated with cauterization.
  • The Word “Cancer”: The Greek physician Hippocrates (460–370 BCE) coined the term karkinos (crab), describing how tumors spread with “legs” like a crab.
  • Scientific Recognition: Modern oncology developed in the 18th–19th centuries when autopsies and microscopes revealed cancer’s spread throughout the body.

⚰️ Researchers and Doctors Who Claimed to Find Cures — and Met Mysterious Ends

  • Dr. Royal Rife (1930s): Invented the “Rife Machine,” claiming it could destroy cancer cells with frequency. After initial press excitement, his labs were raided, equipment destroyed, and he died in obscurity.
  • Dr. Max Gerson (1940s–50s): Developed the Gerson Therapy (nutrition, detox, juicing). He published results showing tumor shrinkage, but his methods were discredited by mainstream medicine. He later died under suspicious circumstances, with some alleging poisoning.
  • Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski (1970s–present): Claimed anti-neoplaston therapy treated cancers. Spent decades fighting FDA lawsuits and suppression.
  • Dr. Sebi (Alfredo Bowman): A herbalist claiming natural cures for cancer and other diseases. Arrested in 2016 for “money laundering,” he died suddenly in custody in Honduras.
  • The Holistic Doctor Deaths (2015 onward): A wave of holistic/naturopathic doctors in the U.S. were reported dead under unusual or violent circumstances after publishing cancer-alternative therapies.

👉 Whether coincidence or conspiracy, history shows a pattern: anyone challenging the pharmaceutical cancer model has faced ruin — or worse.


💰 The Business of Cancer

Cancer is one of the most profitable “industries” in the world.

  • Global Revenue: The cancer treatment market exceeded $180 billion in 2022 and is projected to hit $375 billion by 2030.
  • Chemotherapy: A single round can cost $10,000–$30,000, with some drugs exceeding $100,000 per year.
  • Radiation Therapy: Averages $9,000–$12,000 per course.
  • Doctor Visits & Diagnostics: Lab tests, imaging (MRI, CT scans), biopsies, and hospital stays add tens of thousands more.
  • Pharma Profits: Cancer drugs are among the most expensive and profitable drugs ever produced, with companies marking up costs dramatically beyond production expenses.

🧠 Why the Cartoon Rings True

The cartoon points to an uncomfortable truth: cancer is not just a disease — it’s an industry. Thousands of jobs, billions in revenue, and entire hospital systems rely on continuous treatment, not permanent cures.

  • A cure would collapse a multi-trillion-dollar industry overnight.
  • Treatments focus on “managing” cancer, not eliminating its root causes.
  • The incentive structure rewards repeat customers, not one-time cures.

This doesn’t mean every doctor or researcher is corrupt — many dedicate their lives to saving patients. But the system as a whole is built to prioritize profit.

In the cartoon above, two researchers stand in a lab. One says, “Yes, finding a cure for cancer would be the greatest thing since sliced bread. But remember that not finding it is how we butter our bread.”

It’s satire — but it hits a nerve. The truth is, cancer has become a trillion-dollar industry. For many, the thought that cures may have been discovered (and buried) isn’t far-fetched.


📜 A Brief History of Cancer

  • 1600 BCE – Ancient Egypt: The Edwin Smith Papyrus describes breast tumors cauterized with a “fire drill.”
  • 460–370 BCE – Hippocrates: Coins the word karkinos (crab), comparing tumors with “legs” spreading like a crab.
  • 18th–19th Centuries: Advances in autopsy and microscopy reveal how cancers invade tissues and spread.
  • 20th Century Onward: A wave of controversial figures — from Royal Rife to Max Gerson — claimed to discover cancer cures, only to be suppressed, discredited, or silenced.

🕰️ Cancer Through the Ages: From Ancient Egypt to Big Pharma

1600 BCE → Ancient Egypt: Edwin Smith Papyrus describes breast tumors
460–370 BCE → Hippocrates names cancer karkinos (crab)
18th–19th c. → Microscopy/autopsies show cancer’s spread
1930s → Dr. Royal Rife develops “frequency cure,” suppressed
1940s–50s → Dr. Max Gerson’s nutrition therapy challenges mainstream medicine
1970s → Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski fights FDA over antineoplaston therapy
2015–present → Holistic doctor deaths reported across the U.S.
2022 → Cancer treatment market surpasses $180 billion globally


⚰️ Researchers Who Claimed Cures and Met Opposition

  • Dr. Royal Rife: Claimed frequency machines destroyed cancer cells. Equipment destroyed, career ended.
  • Dr. Max Gerson: Advocated nutritional therapy; later died under suspicious circumstances.
  • Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski: Antineoplaston therapy challenged by the FDA for decades.
  • Dr. Sebi (Alfredo Bowman): Natural healer claiming cures for cancer; died suddenly in custody.
  • Holistic Doctor Deaths (2015 onward): Dozens of practitioners tied to alternative cancer methods died mysteriously.

💰 The Business of Cancer

  • Global Revenue: $180+ billion in 2022, projected $375 billion by 2030.
  • Chemotherapy: $10,000–$30,000 per round; some drugs $100,000+ annually.
  • Radiation Therapy: $9,000–$12,000 per course.
  • Doctor Visits & Diagnostics: MRI, CT scans, biopsies, and hospital stays = thousands more.
  • Pharma Profits: Cancer drugs are among the most expensive in history, often priced at hundreds of times manufacturing cost.

🧠 Why the Cartoon Rings True

The cartoon suggests a harsh reality: curing cancer might save lives — but treating cancer fuels the system.

  • Treatments = repeat customers.
  • A cure = an end to a trillion-dollar industry.
  • Doctors and scientists care deeply, but the system rewards treatment, not eradication.

🔑 SEO Keywords

cancer cure conspiracy, history of cancer, cancer researchers silenced, cancer industry profits, chemotherapy costs, alternative cancer cures, why no cure for cancer, holistic doctors and cancer, history of oncology, pharmaceutical cancer profits.


📚 References

  • American Cancer Society, A Brief History of Cancer
  • Encyclopaedia Britannica: Cancer and History of Oncology
  • Richards, E.G. Mapping Time: The Calendar and Its History
  • Nature Reviews Cancer (2022), Global Cancer Drug Market Projections
  • National Cancer Institute, “The Gerson Therapy”

✍️ About the Author

A.L. Childers is an author and researcher who digs deep into the hidden systems behind health, history, and power. From the mysteries of ancient medicine to modern-day profit-driven industries, Childers writes to uncover truths others prefer to keep buried.


⚖️ Disclaimer

This blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any medical decisions. Historical accounts and financial data are based on publicly available sources.


🌟 SEO Keywords

cancer cure conspiracy, history of cancer, cancer researchers silenced, cancer industry profits, chemotherapy costs, alternative cancer cures, why no cure for cancer, holistic doctors and cancer, history of oncology, pharmaceutical cancer profits.


📚 References

  • American Cancer Society, A Brief History of Cancer
  • Porter, Roy. The Greatest Benefit to Mankind: A Medical History of Humanity
  • Nature Reviews Cancer, Global Cancer Drug Market Projections (2022)
  • “The Gerson Therapy,” National Cancer Institute (archival review)
  • Reports on holistic doctor deaths (2015–2019) — U.S. news outlets

✍️ About the Author

A.L. Childers is an author and researcher who examines the hidden side of medicine, history, and power. With a passion for questioning the official story, Childers writes to inform and inspire readers to think critically about the systems that shape their lives.


⚖️ Disclaimer

This blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any medical decisions. The historical accounts and financial data included are based on publicly available sources; readers are encouraged to do their own research.

When “Young Dumb Bitches” Make Work Harder (But You Still Shine)

We’ve all been there. You land a job you actually like, and then you discover the real challenge isn’t the work — it’s the people on the back end trying to trip you up. Usually, they’re younger, louder, and twice as confident as they are competent. You know the type: eager to “fix” what’s not broken, make mountains out of paperwork molehills, and accidentally make your job harder just by showing up.

The truth? Every workplace has them. And while they may act like they’re running the show, here’s what experience teaches you: they’re not your problem. They’re just noise.

The Generational Divide at Work

Younger employees often come in with shiny degrees, buzzwords, and an “I know it all” attitude. But what they don’t have is mileage. They haven’t had to carry a company through a crisis, pick up the slack when others failed, or navigate real-world politics. That’s where experience (and maybe a little Southern wit) makes all the difference.

They may be “young dumb bitches” today, but give them time — life has a way of humbling everybody. Until then, you do what you’ve always done: handle your work with skill, humor, and a little side-eye when necessary.

Protecting Your Peace (and Your Job)

If you like your job, don’t let the background noise push you out. A few survival strategies:

  • Stay professional in writing. Never give them ammo in emails or messages. Be warm but firm.
  • Set boundaries. Just because someone dumps chaos in your lap doesn’t mean you have to carry it.
  • Laugh it off. Sometimes the only way to survive the nonsense is to turn it into a funny story later (or a blog post like this one 😉).
  • Remember the long game. Companies keep the ones who deliver, not the ones who distract.

At the end of the day, competence outshines drama every single time.


About the Author

A.L. Childers is a Southern-born writer, researcher, and truth-teller who blends humor, grit, and real-life wisdom into everything she writes. From health struggles to workplace battles, she turns hard-earned lessons into stories that resonate.

Her books include:

  • The Hidden Empire: A Journey Through Millennia of Oligarchic Rule
  • Silent Chains: Breaking Free from Conformity and Injustice
  • Roots to Health
  • The Quantum Leap: Habits That Reshape Your Reality

…and many more, available on Amazon.


Disclaimer

This blog is for entertainment and educational purposes only. It’s not intended as professional, legal, or HR advice. Names and situations have been generalized to protect everyone involved. If you see yourself in this post, well… maybe that’s a sign to do better.

🎉 Confetti in the Wind: Love, Memory, and the Moments That Remain

Life rarely tells us when something will be the last time. The last kiss. The last laugh. The last time someone’s hand brushes yours like it was always meant to be there. Often, endings sneak in quietly, disguised as ordinary moments. You don’t realize it’s the final chapter until much later—when the memory floats back to you like confetti in the wind.

This is a story about love, memory, and the way we hold onto moments—even when the people tied to them are gone.


🌹 Love Written in the Air

Every great love begins like fireworks: explosive, bright, unforgettable. We throw ourselves into it, reckless and alive. A smile, a glance, a kiss—each moment burns itself into our memory.

But love isn’t always meant to last forever. Sometimes it’s there to teach us something: how to feel again, how to heal, how to remember we are alive.


🎉 Confetti Moments

Have you ever walked away from someone and thought, “I’ll never forget this”? That feeling isn’t sadness—it’s confetti. Pieces of joy, celebration, and love floating around you, even after the music stops.

  • The last night you danced until sunrise.
  • The road trips with music blasting.
  • The kiss that felt like it would last forever.

These aren’t just memories; they’re fragments of who we’ve become.


💔 The Memory You Can’t Date

The hardest part about love lost is this: you don’t remember when it started to fade. There isn’t a calendar date for heartbreak. There’s just a blur—a hazy line between “always” and “never again.”

And yet, the confetti remains. Small, shimmering reminders that you once loved fully, deeply, without regret.


🌙 Turning Memory Into Healing

Instead of clinging to what’s gone, we can transform confetti-memories into something healing:

  • Ritual of Release: Write down a memory, fold it into paper confetti, and scatter it to the wind. Let go with gratitude.
  • Moon Water & Intention: Place a jar under the night sky, infuse it with love and memory, then drink it as a promise of renewal.
  • Earthing & Stillness: Sit barefoot on the earth and breathe, reminding yourself you’re still here, still capable of love.

Love doesn’t end—it transforms.


📚 About the Author

A.L. Childers is the author of books that intertwine history, spirituality, and the rawness of human experience. Her works include Beyond Words: The Science of Seduction and Connection, Roots to Health, and The Hidden Empire: A Journey Through Millennia of Oligarchic Rule.

Her writing blends story and wisdom, helping readers rediscover the meaning behind everyday life—whether in ancient myths, lunar cycles, or the confetti of love and memory.


⚖️ Disclaimer

This blog is intended for inspirational and reflective purposes only. It is not meant as medical, psychological, or professional advice. For matters of emotional or physical well-being, please seek the support of a qualified professional.


✨ Final Thought

Life is full of confetti moments—fragments of laughter, kisses, and memories that shape us long after the music ends. We may not remember the exact day love slipped away, but we’ll always remember the way it felt. And maybe, that’s the point.

Because in the end—
love doesn’t disappear, it just drifts like confetti in the wind. 🎉

The Ones Who Showed Up—and the Ones Who Slept In

The Ones Who Showed Up—and the Ones Who Slept In
By A.L. Childers | The Freckled Oracle™ – Truth, Wit & Wearable Wisdom
www.TheHypothyroidismChick.com

Let’s hear it for the kids who never missed a day—and the ones who missed all the days that ended in “Y.” 😄

This is a tribute to the loyal classroom soldiers and the hallway Houdinis—because school was a different kind of battlefield, and we all had our own way of surviving it.

Take my childhood best friend, Vanessa Scott, for example. Straight outta Bennettsville, South Carolina, this girl had twelve solid years of perfect attendance. Rain, sleet, stomach bugs, full moons, bad cafeteria food—Vanessa was there. Her record was so clean it practically sparkled. Her desk had tenure. If there was an attendance Olympics, she would’ve taken the gold by 6th grade.

And then… there was me.
A proud member of the “always out” club. I wasn’t sick—I was spiritually unavailable. I saw those early-morning bells as more of a suggestion. Some days, I just needed to be on a personal field trip to the couch with my thoughts (and maybe The Price Is Right).

I called them “mental health days” before it was trendy. I was ahead of my time, y’all.

But even though Vanessa was always in, and I was frequently out, we were inseparable. We became best friends in kindergarten—circa 1977—and have been tight ever since. Yin and yang. Honor roll and hallway runner. I still remember walking to the Ice House together for snacks, which only true Bennettsville folks will remember. (Hot fries, Big K soda, and a dream. That’s the real lunch special.)

Our friendship wasn’t about being the same. It was about showing up for each other—even when I didn’t show up to class.

It’s funny to look back now and realize how different our paths were. She was the model student, the ever-present pillar of consistency. I was the freckled escape artist with a tendency to emotionally evaporate when science class rolled around. And yet—our connection never missed a beat.

So here’s to the ones who sat in the front row, and the ones who were probably still home, finishing their cereal at noon.
Here’s to Vanessa, and to everyone lucky enough to have a friend who stuck by them—whether it was in homeroom or life’s harder moments.

Because attendance isn’t always about showing up in the classroom. Sometimes, it’s about showing up in someone’s heart and staying there for decades.


🧠 Keywords: Bennettsville SC blog, Gen X school stories, perfect attendance humor, Southern childhood friendship, Vanessa Scott Bennettsville, mental health days school, 1980s nostalgia, Ice House Bennettsville, truancy humor, funny classroom memories, The Freckled Oracle, The Hypothyroidism Chick, lifelong friendship, southern bloggers


📌 Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for storytelling, nostalgic reflection, and entertainment. All names and memories are shared with love, laughter, and Southern-style storytelling. No shade to perfect attenders or professional skippers—we all survived school in our own magical way. 😉

🖋️ With Love and Late Slips,
A.L. Childers – The Freckled Oracle™
Truth, Wit & Wearable Wisdom
📍 www.TheHypothyroidismChick.com

About the Author:

Audrey Childers, writing as A.L. Childers, is an ACA-licensed health insurance agent turned full-time truth-teller. With over 200 books published, she’s building a creative empire fueled by fire, freckles, and the freedom to never be silenced again. She’s the voice for the ones who got burned but still showed up. And when she glows, egos burn.

The Freckled Oracle™

Author + Truth Teller @TheFreckledOracle™

“Designed by The Freckled Oracle™ — Truth, Wit & Wearable Wisdom”

The Freckled Oracle™ is a protected brand identity representing the creative works and commercial goods of A.L. Childers. All designs, content, and products are original and not to be copied, reproduced, or resold without express permission.

“Freckled, Fabulous & Rent-Free: Living in Their Heads While Living My Truth”

💣 Disclaimer:

This blog contains truth bombs, unapologetic self-worth, and a sprinkle of Southern sass. If you’re easily offended by confidence, freckles, or fierce women leveling up, bless your heart and scroll on. This is for the ones who’ve been talked about, torn down, and still managed to glow in the dark.


✍️ By A.L. Childers — aka The Freckled Oracle


Let’s talk about what it really means to live rent-free in someone’s head.

I used to think it was a bad thing — you know, when people couldn’t stop whispering, side-eying, or tossing shade like it paid their bills. In grade school, they called me “freckle face” like it was some kind of punishment. My strawberry-blonde hair? Mocked. Picked apart. Made me feel like I was wearing a target.

But here’s what they didn’t know:
You can’t shade where the sun hits hardest. ☀️

And now?
People pay hundreds for faux freckles and strawberry highlights.
I was just ahead of my time — an organic trendsetter in a world still learning how to keep up.


🔥 When They Talk About You… They’re Advertising You

In your 20s and 30s, you think people talking trash about you is a sign of your failure.
No, darling — it’s a fan club in denial.

  • That old coworker who mimicked your walk? Obsessed.
  • That ex-friend who mocks your blog but reads every word? Fan behavior.
  • The family member who said, “You’ll never make it”? They’re watching your TikToks from a burner account.

They tried to bury you in mud, but didn’t realize they were planting seeds.
And when your glow-up bloomed?
They found themselves living in a garden they couldn’t control — where you were the centerpiece.


🧠 Change Your Mindset, Change Your World

Here’s the secret they don’t teach you in therapy quick-fixes:
When you stop letting their projection define your worth, the world shifts.

🔑 It’s not that people stop being nasty.
It’s that you stop giving their opinions the password to your peace.

And that hurts them more than anything you could say back.


🌱 Let Me Give You a Real-Life Freckled Oracle Example:

People made fun of me my whole life.
But now?

  • I’ve written over 200 books
  • I’ve built a brand, a blog, a badass vibe
  • I’ve turned pain into paperback
  • And while I might be fabulously broke for now — my vision is limitless and my impact is immaculate

I glow, and it burns people’s egos.
I exist, and they flinch.

Not because I’ve done anything to them… but because I’ve done everything despite them.


💸 Manifestation Note to Self:

I just need to match my mindset with my money flow.
Until then, I’m rent-free real estate in their fragile little minds — with zero late fees and infinite upgrades.


💥 Keywords:

rent free mindset, freckled and proud, glow up inspiration, overcoming bullying, mindset shift, aspiring author blog, female empowerment, living rent-free in their head, strawberry blonde strength, how to handle jealousy, self-worth blog, female glow up journey, confidence blog, A.L. Childers author, Freckled Oracle


📚 About the Author:

A.L. Childers, known as The Freckled Oracle, is a Southern-born powerhouse of words, wisdom, and wit. With over 200 books under her belt, she’s turned trauma into triumph, and freckles into fire. She writes for the ones who were overlooked, underestimated, or outshined — only to become the ones that can’t be ignored. When she’s not blogging or book-building, she’s dreaming up ways to turn her unapologetic truth into a six-figure empire. Until then? She’s glowing — loudly, rent-free, and unstoppable.

Myrtle Beach Violence Isn’t a Business Problem—It’s a Protection Problem

“You can’t attract better investment by blaming the people already risking everything to stay. You attract it by protecting them.”
— A.L. Childers

In the aftermath of the recent Ocean Boulevard shooting, Myrtle Beach has once again found itself in the national spotlight. As community outrage grew, Mayor Brenda Bethune and Police Chief Amy Prock addressed the media in an effort to calm concerns. But instead of focusing on solutions that address public safety, the mayor chose to cast blame in the wrong direction—at small business owners and low-cost motels.

During her statement, Mayor Bethune concluded:

“So until we realize that people need to reinvest and invest in the right types of businesses in Myrtle Beach, we are not going to change the clientele.”

Let that sink in.

In one breath, the mayor essentially suggested that businesses themselves are to blame for the type of people visiting Myrtle Beach—as if a souvenir shop or a budget motel is responsible for shootings, theft, or gang presence. This thought process is not only flawed—it’s dangerously backwards.

🛑 Let’s Be Real: This Is a Policing Problem, Not a T-shirt Problem

Who’s going to reinvest in a neighborhood where there’s no guarantee of safety? Where public protection is so thin that even high-traffic tourist zones feel like no-go areas after dark?

Who’s going to pour their life savings into a business downtown only to “lose their ass” (as many business owners say) to theft, vandalism, violence, and street gangs that roam freely—while the police force is down more than 50 officers? (MyrtleBeachOnline)

The logic of “cleaner businesses will fix the clientele” is like saying fresh paint fixes a sinking ship.

📊 The Numbers Don’t Lie

  • Myrtle Beach ranks among the top 10 most dangerous cities in America, with a violent crime rate of 68.9 per 1,000 residentsmore than four times the national average
    (NeighborhoodScout)
  • In 2023, over 17.6 million tourists visited the Grand Strand, generating $12.5 billion in economic impact
    (Tourism Works for the Grand Strand)
  • Yet, tourists are increasingly choosing safer alternatives like Surfside Beach and North Myrtle Beach. Why? Because those communities invest in visible policing, clean streets, and safe infrastructure, not just media messaging.

💡 What Myrtle Beach Needs to Actually Do

If city leaders want to actually shift the type of clientele Myrtle Beach attracts, here’s what should happen first:

✅ 1. Rebuild the Police Force

Start by closing the gap in law enforcement staffing. Offer incentives, better pay, and benefits to attract qualified officers.

✅ 2. Clean Up Public Spaces, Not Businesses

Install better lighting, security cameras, and emergency call stations on Ocean Boulevard and surrounding areas. Make it known that law enforcement is present and active.

✅ 3. Community Partnership Programs

Support mentorship, job training, and safe youth programs that give at-risk teens an alternative to gang life—because real change starts before a crime happens.

✅ 4. Protect the Businesses Already There

Give grants or tax incentives to business owners investing in underdeveloped or high-risk areas. Reward those who stay when it would be easier to leave.

✅ 5. Stop Scapegoating and Start Supporting

Leadership should treat business owners as partners—not problems. These entrepreneurs are the economic lifeblood of downtown Myrtle Beach, not the cause of its wounds.

🔁 Flip the Narrative

Blaming business owners for attracting the “wrong people” is like blaming a storm on an umbrella. It’s not only wrong—it’s demoralizing to those who are already fighting to stay afloat.

You can’t attract better investment by blaming the people already risking everything to stay. You attract it by protecting them.


📌 Support local. Speak up. Demand more from leadership. Myrtle Beach can’t thrive if its backbone—its residents and business owners—keep getting blamed for the very problems they’re begging the city to fix.

📍Myrtle Beach has a crime problem. Not a souvenir shop problem.

After the Ocean Boulevard shooting, city leaders blamed low-cost motels and small businesses for attracting “the wrong people.” But here’s the truth:

🔹 Myrtle Beach has one of the highest violent crime rates in the country—68.9 per 1,000 residents
🔹 The police force is short over 50 officers
🔹 Tourists are choosing safer areas like North Myrtle & Surfside
🔹 Business owners are losing everything—while getting blamed for staying

Instead of scapegoating the people risking everything to rebuild, why not protect them?

You don’t change the clientele by blaming your own community.
You change it by investing in safety, structure, and support.

🗣 Let’s demand better. It’s time to stop pointing fingers and start protecting Myrtle Beach.

A.L. Childers
Published Author, Advocate, and Your Partner in Thyroid Health

Disclaimer

The information and recipes in the blog are based on the author’s research and personal experiences. It’s for entertainment purposes. It’s only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author does not render legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance is the author responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by using the information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended to replace what your healthcare provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences from using any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters about your health should be supervised by a healthcare professional. I am not a doctor or a medical professional. This blog is designed as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power; educate yourself and find the answer to your healthcare needs. Wisdom is a beautiful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

The views and services offered by Thehypothyroidismismchick.com are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical assistance but as an alternative for those seeking solutions for better health. We do not claim to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease but simply help you make physical and mental changes in your own body to help your body heal itself. Remember that results may vary, and if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a severe condition, you should consult a physician or other appropriate medical professional before using any products or information on this site. Thehypothyroidisimchick.com assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. Your use of this website indicates your agreement to these terms. Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information on or available through this website, is for general information purposes only. Opinions expressed here are the opinions of the writer. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read or accessed through this website.

This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice, legal advice, or professional services. If you feel that you have a medical problem, you should seek the advice of your physician or health care practitioner. For additional information, please see our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.

Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy. | thehypothyroidismchick

How the Food Industry Is Poisoning Women with Autoimmune Disorders

How the Food Industry Is Poisoning Women with Autoimmune Disorders

By A.L. Childers
(Featuring insights from my books: “A Women’s Holistic Holy Grail Handbook for Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s,” “Hashimoto’s Crock-pot Recipes,” and “Fresh and Fabulous Hypothyroidism Body Balance”)


Introduction: The Hidden Dangers in Your Grocery Cart

Did you know that some of the products we trust most are laced with ingredients that could worsen autoimmune disorders? The food industry has mastered the art of adding hidden toxins to everyday items, and for women battling autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism, these ingredients can wreak havoc on the body.

As someone who has walked this road, I’ve made it my mission to educate and empower women to recognize these dangers and make informed choices. In this blog, I’ll reveal the sneaky ways the food industry is sabotaging our health, what to look for when shopping, and how to replace toxic foods with nourishing alternatives—including a few of my favorite recipes.


The Food Industry’s Dirty Secrets

1. Inflammatory Ingredients

Many processed foods contain additives that trigger inflammation, a key driver of autoimmune disorders. Look out for:

  • Refined sugars: Found in everything from bread to salad dressings, sugar spikes blood sugar levels and promotes chronic inflammation.
  • Hydrogenated oils and trans fats: Common in snacks and baked goods, these fats disrupt hormone balance and increase inflammation.
  • Artificial flavors and colors: These chemicals are known to exacerbate symptoms in individuals with autoimmune conditions.

2. Hidden Gluten and Dairy

Gluten and dairy are common triggers for autoimmune flare-ups, yet they’re lurking in unexpected places like soups, sauces, and even spice mixes.


3. Pesticides and Toxins

Conventionally grown produce often contains pesticide residues, and many processed foods are loaded with preservatives like BHA and BHT, which can disrupt thyroid function.


4. Overuse of GMO Ingredients

Genetically modified crops, such as corn and soy, are widely used in processed foods and are often treated with glyphosate—a pesticide linked to gut health issues and autoimmune activation.


What to Look for When Purchasing Items

When shopping for groceries, keep these tips in mind to avoid harmful ingredients:

  1. Read Labels Carefully: Look for hidden sources of sugar, gluten, and dairy.
  2. Choose Organic: Prioritize organic produce to avoid pesticide exposure.
  3. Look for Short Ingredient Lists: The fewer ingredients, the better—especially ones you can pronounce!
  4. Go Non-GMO: Choose products labeled non-GMO to avoid genetically modified ingredients.
  5. Beware of Buzzwords: “Natural” doesn’t always mean healthy. Always read the fine print.

5 Recipes to Replace Toxic Shelf Staples

1. Homemade Salad Dressing

Why ditch store-bought? Bottled dressings are often packed with refined sugars, unhealthy oils, and artificial flavors.

Thyroid-Friendly Alternative:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk together and drizzle over salads or roasted veggies.


2. DIY Nut Butter

Why ditch store-bought? Many nut butters contain added sugars, hydrogenated oils, and preservatives.

Thyroid-Friendly Alternative:

  • 2 cups raw almonds or cashews
  • 1-2 tbsp coconut oil
  • Pinch of salt

Blend in a food processor until smooth, adding coconut oil as needed for consistency.


3. Gluten-Free Pancake Mix

Why ditch store-bought? Boxed pancake mixes often contain gluten, refined flours, and artificial flavors.

Thyroid-Friendly Alternative:

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup tapioca flour
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Combine the ingredients and store in an airtight container. Mix with eggs and almond milk when ready to cook.


4. All-Natural Body Scrub

Why ditch store-bought? Body scrubs often contain parabens, synthetic fragrances, and harsh chemicals that can absorb into your skin.

Thyroid-Friendly Alternative (From “Fresh and Fabulous Hypothyroidism Body Balance“):

  • 1/2 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix together and use as a gentle exfoliator.


5. Healthy Snack Bars

Why ditch store-bought? Most snack bars are loaded with refined sugars and unhealthy additives.

Thyroid-Friendly Alternative:

  • 1 cup oats (certified gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Mix, press into a pan, and refrigerate until firm.


Empower Yourself with Knowledge

For more recipes and tips to protect your thyroid and overall health, explore my books:

These books are available on Amazon and are designed to empower you with practical tools and inspiration to live your healthiest life.


References

  1. Isabella Wentz, Hashimoto’s Protocol: A 90-Day Plan for Reversing Thyroid Symptoms
  2. Dr. Mark Hyman, The Food Fix
  3. Datis Kharrazian, Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? When My Lab Tests Are Normal
  4. A.L. Childers, Fresh and Fabulous Hypothyroidism Body Balance

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or health routine.


Final Thoughts: You Deserve Better

The food industry may not have your back, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take charge of your health. By choosing clean, nourishing foods and ditching toxic ingredients, you can take a powerful step toward healing.

Let my books be your guide as you reclaim your health, one meal (and one body scrub) at a time. You’re worth it!

To My Readers: A Warm Message from the Heart

To My Readers: A Warm Message from the Heart

By A.L. Childers

As a writer, researcher, and fellow human navigating this complex world, I want to take a moment to speak directly to you—my readers. Writing is a deeply personal journey, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable acts. When I release a book, I’m sharing a piece of myself, my experiences, my research, and the truths I’ve uncovered so far. But let me be clear: I don’t claim to know it all.

This journey of discovery is just that—a journey. Each of us is on a unique path, finding meaning in our own time and way. If you’ve picked up my book and feel it doesn’t answer all your questions or align with your expectations, I ask for your understanding and encourage you to keep searching. No single book can encapsulate the vast mysteries of life or hold all the answers we seek.

Why I Write

I write to share my perspective, to spark curiosity, and to open doors to new ways of thinking. My words are not the final destination but a stepping stone—an invitation for you to explore further, question deeper, and find what resonates with your own truth.

These books will reflect where I am on my path right now. It’s a snapshot of my growth, my understanding, and my reflections at this point in time. And while it may not speak to everyone in the same way, I hope it plants a seed of thought, a question, or even a challenge that inspires you to dig deeper.

To My Critics

I’ve learned that not everyone will agree with what I write, and that’s okay. We live in a world of diverse perspectives, and healthy debate is a cornerstone of growth. But sometimes, criticism can feel harsh, even cruel. It’s one thing to disagree—it’s another to approach that disagreement with negativity and hostility.

I kindly ask that you approach my work with the same curiosity and open-mindedness that I bring to writing it. If you don’t agree, let that disagreement inspire you to find new information, challenge your assumptions, or even write your own book. Growth comes from exploration, not condemnation.

Let’s Keep Seeking Together

We’re all in this together, navigating the chaos, beauty, and complexity of life. My hope is that this book, and my writing in general, serves as a light along the way—a reminder that we’re all searching, all learning, and all evolving.

If you feel something is missing in my book, let that absence be a spark. Seek out new voices, dive into the unknown, and keep asking the tough questions. Growth is not about finding all the answers; it’s about having the courage to keep searching.

Gratitude for the Journey

To those who have supported my work, thank you. Every book you purchase, every kind of review, and every encouraging word fuels my passion and allows me to continue writing. You are the reason I can keep pursuing this dream, and I am endlessly grateful.

To those who feel compelled to criticize, I appreciate your honesty. But I ask for grace as we all walk this path together. Writing is my way of contributing to the greater conversation, and I hope you’ll engage with it constructively, with curiosity and respect.

Let’s remember: we’re all human, all searching for meaning, and all on different timelines. My book may not provide everything you’re looking for, but it’s my sincere hope that it offers something—a question, a spark, a moment of clarity.

With love, encouragement, and gratitude,
A.L. Childers

Disclaimer

The information and recipes in the blog are based on the author’s research and personal experiences. It’s for entertainment purpIt’s only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author does not render legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by using the information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended to replace what your healthcare provider has suggested.  The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences from using any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters about your health should be supervised by a healthcare professional. I am not a doctor or a medical professional. This blog is designed as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements.  Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your healthcare needs. Wisdom is a beautiful thing to seek.  I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.

The views and services offered by Thehypothyroidismismchick.com are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical assistance but as an alternative for those seeking solutions for better health. We do not claim to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease but simply help you make physical and mental changes in your own body to help your body heal itself. Remember that results may vary, and if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a severe condition, you should consult a physician or other appropriate medical professional before using any products or information on this site. Thehypothyroidisimchick.com assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. Your use of this website indicates your agreement to these terms. Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information on or available through this website, is for general information purposes only. Opinions expressed here are the opinions of the writer. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read or accessed through this website.

This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice, legal advice, or professional services. If you feel that you have a medical problem, you should seek the advice of your physician or health care practitioner. For additional information, please see Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.

Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy. | thehypothyroidismchick

This piece was inspired by timeless wisdom and the understanding that true success lies not in the small battles, but in the pursuit of one’s purpose. –A.L. Childers