DISPATCHES with Hollie McKay
Dispatches with Hollie McKay is where on-the-ground reporting meets real talk, no fluff, no agenda—just raw, unfiltered stories from the far corners of the world. Every week, I dive into the headlines that should be making news, the hidden humanitarian crises, and the extraordinary resilience of people too often forgotten. Alongside risk analyst Dennis Santiago, we’ll unpack global events, challenge narratives, and throw in a few personal picks—because sometimes, after covering war zones, you just need a good book, a great song, or a killer recipe. Welcome to Dispatches—where empathy leads the conversation.
Follow Hollie on Instagram and X @holliesmckay
*This podcast is proudly brought to you by HumanizingGlobalPolicy.org
DISPATCHES with Hollie McKay
Dispatches: The Stolen Children of Ukraine and Sacred Parenting Practices
In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a horrifying campaign is unfolding—one that targets not soldiers, but children. In this episode, we delve into the heartbreaking reality of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly deported, indoctrinated, and erased from their roots under the guise of "rescue missions."
From mass abductions to forced adoptions and identity erasure, we explore how these acts violate international law—and the deep emotional and cultural scars they leave behind.
We then take a personal and hopeful turn—into the intimate world of modern motherhood. From trauma of war reporting to the quiet magic of a toddler’s first words, we explore the transformative nature of parenting, the joy of watching a child blossom, and the challenges faced by mothers navigating broken systems.
This episode is a meditation on innocence—in peril and in progress—and why protecting children means protecting our shared humanity.
Visit holliesmckay.substack.com