A Women’s History Month Special: Female Podcasters
By Jessica Garrison
Every March we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time to look back at the groundbreaking work women have done over the years. The monumental efforts put forth by other women help us live the lives we do today as we continue to strive and make history.
When thinking of topics to write about for Women’s History Month, I kept coming back to the idea of podcasts (which is quite fitting), and women sharing their ideas in an open space. In the past, women’s voices have been silenced, unable to speak or live their truths. Meanwhile, podcasts are cemented in the Internet forever, becoming a part of their own history. There’s an unlimited amount of resources and content from diverse voices to hear. I’ve compiled a short list of podcasts—some from the resources list on the Embracing Layers website and some from my own personal lists—of podcasts that reach female audiences. Not only are these podcasts helpful to women, but they are also hosted and created by women.
Against the Odds with Cassie de Pecol and Mike Corey
During the first season of the F.E.E.L Podcast, the Christienson women were featured in the 18th episode entitled “The Art of Being There For Each Other with The Christenson Women.” Reilly lists one of her resources as the podcast “Against the Odds,” which talks about human resilience. This podcast reports incidents where people have to fight for their lives during unbelievable events. Despite all they have to encounter, they’re able to survive and share their stories with others. This inspiring podcast reminds us that we are built to not only overcome, but to thrive.
Dear Therapists with Lori Gottlieb and Guy Winch
Season two guest D’Ann Wells lists this podcast as a resource where two therapists discuss the struggles people go through every day. From guests who recall trouble with drug addiction to stories of romantic turmoil, this podcast really has something for everyone. Even if you feel like you’re alone in your situation, you really aren’t, and what a tremendous resource to have as a reminder of this.
Ladies Who Lunch with Ingrid Nilsen and Cat Valdes
I decided to list this podcast myself because of the variety of topics these amazing women cover. The two YouTubers approach uncomfortable topics in a nonjudgmental, welcoming environment. I love the conversations they have on this podcast, such as bringing awareness to different eating disorders and trying to forgive yourself for past mistakes. With almost 100 episodes of content to discover, there’s so much to learn from and so much to share.
Latino USA with Maria Hinjosa
This is another inclusion from myself that I think is important because of the lack of representation in the online world. This podcast has a female dominated team behind it and over 200 episodes, making it the perfect way to get news you may not have heard of and widen your perspective on what's going on outside of your own bubble. Their website also supports other podcasts that cover Latino topics and issues, which continues these conversations even further.
Now & Then with Heather Cox Richardson and Joanne Freeman
This podcast takes a historical approach to the classic medium, making its episodes so unique when it comes to their perspective on current events. When looking at what’s going on in today’s world when it comes to politics, environmental issues, modern developments, and so much more, these two women look back on the legacies of these topics and share their knowledge. It takes learning to a whole other level.
Only Human with Mary Harris
I wanted to include this podcast on the list because of its focus on health. In today’s world, healthcare is a difficult thing to navigate, and nothing ever seems easy. As the website says, “everyone has a story,” and this podcast offers a safe platform to share others’ experiences on their health and obstacles they’ve had to overcome. Although a bit uncomfortable at times, this podcast is really making waves in the community and standing up for people’s health.
The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos
Episode three of season two of the F.E.E.L podcast featured Megan Manierski, who added “The Happiness Lab” to her resource list. This podcast, hosted by Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos, shares scientific research about true happiness and how it’s achieved. Of course, there’s no real answer to that question, but listening to her speak on topics such as anxiety, grief, and burnout can inspire a change in the way you perceive your emotions.
I am a firm believer in empowered women empower women, so sharing these resources and other podcasts resonates with me, especially being on a podcast team full of intelligent and passionate women. Let’s continue to praise and uplift each other every single day for many years to come!