Gunnison Arts Center hosts ‘It Takes a Village’ podcast and ‘Butterflies in a Blizzard’ film screening this Friday

On Friday, Jan. 16, the Gunnison Arts Center is hosting Gunnison’s own “It Takes a Village” podcast and holding a screening of Kimmy Fasani’s documentary “Butterflies in a Blizzard.”

At 4 p.m., the podcast will be holding a live taping of their new episode, interviewing Lana Athey, the program manager from Tough Enough to Wear Pink. They’ll be discussing breast cancer awareness and what’s available in Gunnison county for women who need care.

Viewers are invited to watch, listen and most importantly ask questions. The podcast recording is free to attend, but donations will be accepted.

“I would love to see people there for audience participation,” said Megan West. “It’s an opportunity to come and share your story or ask questions.” 

The podcast mainly covers topics regarding women’s health and motherhood.

“It’s about our journeys through motherhood, and what’s available to women in rural communities, and the support they can find when they do become moms,” West said. “And we also try to explore the experience of women in rural communities, even before they become moms, like how do we get the health care we need.”

West hosts the podcast along with Brieanna Radford and Liberty Lyons. All three share their experiences with motherhood, and use their vulnerability to help inform others.

Kimmy Fasani is known mostly as a professional snowboarder, bringing female riders into the same conversations as men. This documentary, however, explores a new side of her, diving into her journey with motherhood and navigating breast cancer.

The film screening will begin at 7 p.m. and costs $10.

West highlights the concept of “Matrescence” to connect the two events. The term is regaining popularity in the therapy world, translating loosely to how a woman changes when she becomes a mom.

“Matrescence, postpartum and becoming a mom, none of those things are talked about enough, and we’re really starting to bring awareness to that by sharing our stories and being vulnerable,” West said.

It Takes a Village is available on all podcast streaming platforms.