Join the conversation as the speaker and her friend discuss the challenges and unique experiences that women face in the world. They delve into topics such as supporting women in difficult situations, the role of an artist manager, balancing work and parenthood, fear and safety concerns in running, hormonal fluctuations and decision-making, and gender dynamics and recognition.
Men need to better understand and empathize with the challenges women face in the world.
Men should recognize and support the additional responsibilities and expectations that working mothers carry.
Men should be aware of and empathize with the constant fear and vigilance that women often experience in their daily lives.
Deep dives
The Importance of Understanding Women's Experiences
The podcast episode explores the importance of men understanding women's experiences and challenges in the current world. The host emphasizes that it's not about women versus men, but rather about inviting men to better understand women's experiences. The host shares personal stories to illustrate the gender dynamics she has encountered, both in her workplace and in her everyday life. She highlights the need for validation, empathy, and support from men when women share their experiences and concerns. The podcast delves into practical ways men can offer support, such as validating women's experiences, listening to their feelings, avoiding blame or judgment, and reiterating support and empathy.
The Challenges Faced by Working Mothers
The episode specifically discusses the challenges faced by working mothers. The host acknowledges the extra responsibilities and expectations that working mothers carry both at home and in the workplace. She emphasizes the need for men to recognize and respect these additional responsibilities and to provide support where possible. The podcast touches on the importance of understanding the physical and emotional changes that women go through during pregnancy and postpartum. It also raises the need for more flexible work arrangements and a shift in traditional gender roles to enable working mothers to thrive.
The Fear and Alertness Women Experience
The podcast explores the fear and constant alertness that women often experience in their daily lives. It discusses how women have to be constantly aware of their surroundings and assess potential threats, even in familiar environments. The fear and heightened sense of caution are present whether women are traveling alone or just going for a run in their own city. The podcast highlights the need for men to understand and empathize with this constant state of vigilance that women endure. It also emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces and supportive environments for women to voice their concerns and experiences.
Recognizing and Praising Men for Their Contributions
The episode acknowledges that men are often praised for their involvement in parenting or for performing tasks that women wouldn't receive recognition for. It raises the issue of gender stereotypes and societal expectations that contribute to this discrepancy. However, the podcast also underscores the importance of positive reinforcement and recognition for men's efforts in caregiving and other traditionally female roles. It challenges the idea that men shouldn't be praised for their involvement and supports the idea of encouraging and affirming men in their contributions to parenting and partnership.
The Need for Open Communication and Understanding
The podcast episode emphasizes the importance of open communication and understanding between men and women. It suggests that both genders need to make an effort to bridge the gap and engage in meaningful conversations about their experiences, challenges, and expectations. The episode encourages men to ask questions, actively listen, and seek better understanding of women's perspectives, while also highlighting the importance of women sharing their experiences honestly and seeking support when needed. It aims to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for both men and women to thrive and navigate the complexities of gender dynamics.
Do you remember the first time as a female you were objectified?
I do. I was 12 and he was in his early 20s. It brought up mixed feelings of being immediately uncomfortable and self-conscious, but also flattered by the attention?
Whether it’s fielding unwanted advances, or running in a new city with pepper spray in hand, or being the solo female voice outnumbered in a leadership room - these instances aren’t unique.
Women reading even just those examples will go “oh yeah, been there.”
But, for some reason to men it is still a foreign concept that we have different obstacles in this world than they may be facing.
I initially had the title of this theme “Women vs Men” but I realized I don’t think we are opposing forces.
A better thought is “how can we invite men into our experiences better?”
Join me and my friend Janelle, a female entrepreneur who founded Volara, an artist management company working to create intentional spaces for females in the music industry, as we talk a bit about our own experiences navigating this world as modern women.
If you’re a female, I think you’ll likely feel validated and less alone in your experience and if you’re a male I think you’ll walk away with some better handles and tools to support the females in your life.