The Midlife Feast #158 - Why Good Girls Gossip: Reclaiming Female Connection in Midlife with Tova Leigh
Jun 16, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Tova Leigh, an author, performer, and digital creator, challenges the stigma around gossip and highlights its power as a means of connection among women in midlife. She shares insights from her book, 'Good Girls Gossip,' advocating for breaking free from societal expectations of perfection. Tova introduces her innovative 'and also' mindset, encouraging women to embrace their complexities. The conversation celebrates the importance of sisterhood, shared stories, and the value of authentic connections.
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Power of Female Retreats
- Tova Leigh ran female empowerment retreats in Portugal to create safe, in-person sisterhood and authentic connection among women.
- These retreats revealed the powerful impact of women sharing stories, empathy, and community in physical presence.
Reclaiming Gossip's True Meaning
- The word "gossip" originally meant intimate, truth-sharing communication among women in close community.
- Gossip has been vilified to silence women's powerful communal storytelling and wisdom sharing.
Stranger Support Changed Perspective
- After deciding not to breastfeed her twins, Tova experienced guilt until a support call from a stranger mother helped her heal.
- Such truthful sharing between women provides connection, comfort, and practical help beyond judgment.
