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freemom, conversations for modern mothers
freemom is a podcast that explores motherhood in a different way than what you're used to. From mental health issues to paid maternity leave, money matters to building a business, we are laser-focused on the modern mama who finds a way to balance it all but shouldn’t have to. At freemom, we pick the brains of authors, journalists, scientists, therapists, business owners, and politicians who want to create better opportunities for our generation as well as the next one. Best of all is that we are bringing these seriously brilliant and inspirational women right into your ears in easy 30-minute episodes that you can listen to during your daily commute or stroller stroll. Strap yourself in mama because this is going to be a ride.
freemom, conversations for modern mothers
Social Media's Impact on Women and Girls
Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s a huge part of our daily lives - it’s where we connect, share, scroll... and sometimes, let’s be honest, compare. But what is social media actually doing to us, especially as women and mothers? And what about our daughters?
The statistics are sobering: Nearly 95% of adolescent girls are active on social media, and 46% spend six or more hours a day on these platforms. Studies show that consuming appearance-focused content can significantly increase rates of anxiety and depression, particularly among teenage girls. And when you add in the constant pressures of comparison, unrealistic beauty standards, and cyberbullying, it’s no wonder that social media is having such a profound impact on women and girls.
That’s where our guest comes in. Dr. Kara Alaimo is a communication professor and the author of Over the Influence: Why Social Media is Toxic for Women and Girls—And How We Can Take It Back. She’s an expert on the intersection of media and gender, and she’s here to help us understand what’s going on, why it matters, and how we can make social media work for us instead of against us.
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From mental health and managing relationships to raising changemakers and advocating for support, freemom is a podcast dedicated to ensuring that every mom feels heard. You can find us on the gram at @freemomcast or on the web at www.freemomcast.com. You can also support the show and help fund production with a sweet little five-dollar donation right here. Thanks for listening!
