The Liberation of Women's Choices with Rebecca Simmons (Goldilocks Series) // Ep 18

In Flow + On Fire

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In this conversation, Quinn and Rebecca discuss their initial impressions of the story of Goldilocks and how it has evolved over time. They explore themes of boundaries, curiosity, innocence, and the fear of making the wrong choices. They also discuss the impact of societal expectations on women's choices and the struggles women face in terms of contraception and reproductive health. Rebecca shares insights from her work in family planning and highlights the burden and stigma associated with contraceptive use. They emphasize the importance of respecting women's choices and the need for a more supportive and understanding society. Pregnancy is a risky condition, and it's important to understand the high level of risk involved. People who have an unwanted pregnancy are less likely to take good care of themselves, which can lead to negative outcomes. It's crucial to support individuals in making their own choices and to recognize that there is no one right path. The Goldilocks myth represents the struggle of choosing and the impact our choices have on others. Women's reproductive issues and sexual health are significant choices with high consequences and risks. It's important for women to be educated and empowered in these areas.

Top Takeaways

• Initial impressions of stories, like Goldilocks, can shape our understanding of archetypes and morality.

• The story of Goldilocks raises questions about boundaries, curiosity, innocence, and the fear of making the wrong choices.

• Women face societal expectations and judgment when it comes to their choices, particularly in areas like contraception and reproductive health.

• The burden and stigma associated with contraceptive use can have a significant impact on women's lives.

• Respecting women's choices and creating a supportive society is crucial for empowering women and ensuring their well-being. Pregnancy is a high-risk condition, and it's important to understand the level of risk involved.

• People with unwanted pregnancies are less likely to take good care of themselves, leading to negative outcomes.

• Support individuals in making their own choices and recognize that there is no one right path.

• The Goldilocks myth represents the struggle of choosing and the impact our choices have on others.

• Women's reproductive issues and sexual health are significant choices with high consequences and risks.

• It's important for women to be educated and empowered in these areas.

Rebecca Simmons, PhD, MPH is a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Utah in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Simmons directs the evaluation for the statewide contraceptive initiative, Family Planning Elevated, and works on other implementation research, including HER Salt Lake. Her research interests and expertise include fertility awareness-based methods, comprehensive contraceptive access, health technology, and implementation science.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:03 Initial Impressions of Goldilocks 06:19 Boundaries, Curiosity, and the Fear of Making Wrong Choices 09:59 Societal Expectations and Burdens on Girls and Women 12:48 Challenges in Finding the Right Contraception Method 16:42 The Stigma and Judgment Surrounding Women's Choices 21:27 The Negative Impact of Unwanted Pregnancy 26:44 Educating Women and Bringing Compassion 30:16 Embracing the Goldilocks Moment 34:54 Being an Alive Version of Ourselves 37:24 Dealing with Overbearing Perceptions 43:18 The Bears as Guides to Rewilding 46:14 Making Your Own Choices and Embracing Change