Women’s issues are vast, impactful, and require constant attention. Staying informed about women’s issues is not just essential for women; it’s crucial for everyone who believes in creating an equitable and better world. Often, people struggle to find reliable and engaging ways to deepen their understanding of these topics in their busy lives.
Podcasts have become an incredibly popular and accessible platform for learning. They offer in-depth discussions, diverse viewpoints, and expert insights while allowing listeners to tune in during a commute, workout, or quiet evening at home. Several podcasts today focus specifically on women’s issues, addressing complex subjects in relatable ways. They shed light on stories that haven’t been widely told, elevate voices that need to be heard, and prompt critical thought around pressing topics such as gender equality, representation in media, and women’s health.
By exploring weekly podcasts dedicated to women’s issues, you can engage with a constantly evolving conversation in an approachable way. Below, we’ll highlight some of the most noteworthy podcasts that keep you informed and inspired, breaking down their themes, approaches, and key topics.
1. The Guilty Feminist
The Guilty Feminist offers a witty yet enlightening take on feminism and issues women face in their day-to-day lives. Hosted by comedian Deborah Frances-White, each episode blends humor with thought-provoking discussions that explore the contradictions many women experience. For example, the show might joke about feeling guilty for enjoying stereotypically “feminine” things like reality TV, while advocating fiercely for equal opportunities for women.
One of the podcast’s strengths lies in its focus on inclusivity. The Guilty Feminist invites guests from diverse professions and backgrounds, from activists and authors to entertainers. Topics are far-reaching and include everything from the gender pay gap and leadership challenges to body image and intersectional feminism. By sharing personal stories and expert insights, the show creates a space that is both engaging and deeply enriching.
Listeners are encouraged not to view feminism as a perfect, one-size-fits-all ideology. Instead, the show reminds everyone that supporting gender equality is a work in progress. This helps listeners reflect on their own flaws and contributions while staying motivated to support change wherever they can.
Whether you’re a long-time feminist or simply curious about the movement, The Guilty Feminist is a powerful resource. Through its mix of intelligence, humor, and inclusivity, it ensures no one is left out of the conversation.
2. The Broad Experience
For listeners seeking a deeply educational podcast, The Broad Experience is an excellent choice. This podcast focuses on women’s experiences in the workplace, discussing how gender impacts career paths, leadership opportunities, and overall representation in business. Hosted by journalist Ashley Milne-Tyte, it unpacks stories and statistics that illuminate why inequities persist and how they can be addressed.
Each episode examines systemic barriers faced by women, including topics like wage gaps, lack of mentorship, and the “invisible load” many working women bear at home. Guests often include business leaders, academics, and policy experts who share solutions and strategies for overcoming these challenges. One of the podcast’s standout features is its emphasis on real-life stories that humanize complex workplace issues.
The Broad Experience also dives into nuanced topics often overlooked in mainstream conversations, such as the intersection of gender with race, age, or economic class. It urges listeners to think critically about how oppression is multifaceted and what individuals and organizations can do to build more inclusive workplaces.
If you aim to succeed in your professional life while contributing to meaningful change, tuning in to The Broad Experience will offer insight and inspiration. Its thoughtful analysis ensures you don’t just hear about challenges; you also learn how to address them effectively.
3. The Double Shift
The Double Shift brings a much-needed spotlight to the intersection of motherhood, work, and society. Hosted by journalist Katherine Goldstein, this podcast challenges traditional narratives about motherhood and explores the complicated realities faced by working mothers. It sheds light on how societal expectations, economic pressures, and workplace policies impact mothers and their families.
What sets The Double Shift apart is its commitment to storytelling from diverse perspectives. Episodes have featured single mothers, queer families, and women working in unconventional careers. By sharing these varied experiences, the podcast broadens the conversation and ensures it resonates with listeners from all walks of life.
The show doesn’t shy away from addressing systemic issues, including paid parental leave, affordable childcare, and workplace flexibility. For instance, one episode might explore the experiences of mothers navigating careers in male-dominated fields, while another might discuss the stigma faced by stay-at-home parents. Goldstein’s approach is always thoughtful, aiming to uplift while being unflinchingly honest.
The Double Shift provides a fresh and necessary perspective on both societal norms and workplace structures. If you’ve ever wondered how public policy and social attitudes intersect with family life, this podcast will keep you informed while challenging your preconceptions.
4. Call Your Girlfriend
Call Your Girlfriend is a unique podcast that feels like listening in on a heartfelt conversation between best friends. Hosted by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman, the show combines witty banter with deep dives into social and political topics affecting women. What makes their podcast stand out is its engaging, informal tone, which draws listeners in while tackling serious issues.
The podcast covers a wide range of subjects, from reproductive rights and mental health to friendship dynamics and pop culture. While the hosts often reflect on their personal experiences, they also feature in-depth interviews with activists, writers, and thinkers who bring fresh perspectives. For example, one episode might discuss the importance of self-care alongside navigating activism, while another might address inequality in healthcare systems.
A consistent theme throughout the show is the power of relationships, particularly between women. By emphasizing collaboration and solidarity, Call Your Girlfriend celebrates the strength found in both friendship and activism. While it may not be as formal as other podcasts on this list, its combination of warmth and education makes it a compelling listen.
Whether you’re seeking practical advice or thought-provoking conversations, Call Your Girlfriend delivers with humor, intelligence, and authenticity. For anyone eager to explore women’s issues through a more personal lens, this podcast offers a rewarding and relatable experience.
