"Rebel Mothers" challenges the stifling institution of modern motherhood and reclaims mothering as an act of liberation. Each episode we’ll explore the struggles and expectations mothers face in a world built to exploit them, unveil the systematic institutions that create these challenges, and develop strategies for dismantling these oppressive systems. We'll shed light on the intersectionality of motherhood, addressing the unique struggles faced by women of diverse backgrounds. And we’ll hear inspiring stories of fearless women who are redefining the narrative of motherhood.
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The purpose of this particular blog post is to make sure that we are all on the same page about several important things. Most of my writing focuses on the intersections of motherhood with feminism, social justice work, spirituality, relationships, sexuality, and more. Some of these topics are very intimate and tender for people, so I very much want you to feel supported here.
Read on to learn more about me, my standpoint, my values, and more!
Read MoreIn this episode we explore the complexities of raising boys in a patriarchal society, diving deep into the origins of patriarchy, debunking common myths, and discussing its impact on both men and women.
Read MoreMatricentric feminism, which is a huge theme of the Rebel Mothers podcast, centers on the experiences, perspectives, and voices of mothers within the broader feminist movement. In this episode, Susie discusses the definition of matricentric feminism, its importance in academia, public policy, and motherhood, as well as its pioneers and contemporary scholars.
Read MoreListen to the remarkable life and legacy of Eleanor Roosevelt, a true trailblazer of the 20th century. From her early challenges and insecurities to her groundbreaking activism and leadership as First Lady of the United States, Eleanor's impact on women and mothers continues to resonate today. Susie explores Eleanor's role as a champion for social justice, civil rights, and human rights, highlighting her efforts to create positive change and empower marginalized communities. Despite facing personal struggles, Eleanor's dedication to public service and her unwavering commitment to equality serve as an inspiration for women and mothers everywhere.
Read MoreWhy does wine and motherhood seem ubiquitous these days? In this thought-provoking episode, Susie dives into the complex intersection of alcohol, the patriarchy, and motherhood. Drawing on historical perspectives, societal norms, and personal anecdotes, she explores the evolution of women's relationship with alcohol, the rise of "mommy wine culture," and the detrimental effects of alcohol consumption on maternal well-being. Through discussions on Holly Whitaker's insights and personal reflections, Susie challenges traditional notions of alcoholism and offers empowering perspectives on reevaluating one's relationship with alcohol. Ultimately, she advocates for reframing societal norms and prioritizing the holistic health of women and mothers.
Read MoreSusie replays a 2023 workshop called "The Motherhood Revolution." Learn more at https://www.susiefishleder.com/events
Topics include:
Establishing the difference between mothering and motherhood and the cultural systems that affect both
Recognizing how the act of mothering is a path to self-actualization and empowerment…a practice that not only nourishes the mother, but elevates the entire family
Understanding the difference between dominator and partnership family models…and how to move from one to the other
Let’s explore the historical and contemporary economic systems and their impact on motherhood! Starting with an overview of capitalism, socialism, and communism, Susie exposes the inherent flaws in these systems and proposes alternative paradigms like the gift economy and the sharing economy. Through an exploration of different economic models, she highlights the challenges and opportunities for mothers in various economic systems and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing human flourishing and caregiving in economic discourse.
Read MoreIn the first of this two-part series on the economics of motherhood, Susie examines the cost of motherhood through the life story of a fictional mother in the United States, Emily, who faces the financial struggles and worries that many mothers face today. Stay tuned for next week when Susie explores some alternative economic systems and how those might shape motherhood.
Read MoreToday we discuss the life of Jenny Marx, wife of Karl Marx, whose influence on the socialist movement is often overshadowed. From her aristocratic upbringing to her pivotal role in shaping the ideas that would change the world, Jenny's journey is one of resilience, commitment, and unwavering dedication to the emancipation of the working class. We explore her early years, her relationship with Karl, and the challenges they faced together, including poverty, exile, and personal tragedies. Through it all, Jenny remained a steadfast supporter of Karl's work, and deeply in love with the man behind the ideas. Her legacy as a feminist and revolutionary thinker continues to inspire activism and resistance to this day.
Read MoreMaternal activism is a specific form of activism that is focused on addressing issues that impact mothers, children, and families within their communities and society at large. Susie breaks down why we don't usually hear this term used, the pros and cons of centering mothers in activism, and highlights the diverse forms of activism engaged in by mothers from different backgrounds. The episode emphasizes how maternal activism intertwines with broader social justice issues and challenges societal norms to advocate for mothers and their families.
Read MoreIn this episode of Rebel Mothers, Susie takes the audience on a journey to explore the concept of motherhood as enlightenment. She reflects on her own experiences and the parallels between motherhood and spiritual traditions. Susie challenges the societal norms and beliefs around motherhood and presents it as a path to spiritual growth and awakening.
Read MoreA mother’s love is often romanticized and idealized, but really, radical mother love is an opportunity to challenge traditional motherhood norms and dismantle larger systems of oppression. The discussion ranges from expanding the definition of motherhood beyond the normative mother and family to embracing the complexities of maternal ambivalence and the radical nature of mother love in uplifting and supporting all children and families.
Read MoreToday we explore boundaries in motherhood: exploring how boundaries help create a sense of personal agency and autonomy, emphasizing their role in empowering women, and finding a balance between individualism and collective well-being. This episode highlights the challenges mothers face in setting boundaries with their children, and offers guidance on setting boundaries as a way to reclaim our time, energy, and purpose.
Read MoreIn the second part of this two-part series, Susie focuses on rewriting birth narratives for peace, strength, and agency. Susie shares her personal journey of healing and empowerment after challenging birthing experiences, emphasizing the societal pressures of the myth of the perfect mother and its impact on maternal well-being. Drawing from Robbie Davis-Floyd's insights, the episode discusses the importance of self-reflection, body practices, and positive affirmations in the healing process. Susie also highlights the significance of support, both in sharing birth stories and engaging in practices that release stored emotions.
Read MoreIn part one of this two-part series on matrescence, Susie explores the transformative concept of matrescence. Drawing on insights from Dr. Aurélie Athan and Robbie Davis-Floyd's "Birth as an American Rite of Passage," Susie unpacks the stages of matrescence, comparing it to adolescence and emphasizing the need for empathy and celebration in this unique journey. She draws parallels between the classic elements of a rite of passage and matrescence. She gives globally diverse examples of birthing rituals and sheds light on how hospital births in America have unintentionally adopted rituals that emphasize society’s patriarchal core values.
Read MoreSusie discusses the motherline (matrilineal ancestry) and the importance of women’s stories. Navigating through historical struggles, ancient goddess cultures, and societal shifts, Susie invites listeners to reclaim the stories of women that have been obscured, stolen, or silenced. Join the journey of exploration and empowerment as we reimagine narratives and contribute to a paradigm shift in the broader motherhood revolution.
Read MoreThis episode is an interview Susie did with Mexie from Total Liberation in the spring of 2023. Susie & Mexie discuss how capitalism, patriarchy, and white supremacy shape the institution of motherhood and harm people who take on the work of mothering. We end with discussing what a motherhood revolution could look like and how it would dovetail with a broader societal revolution.
Read MoreIn this episode of Rebel Mothers, we explored Riane Eisler's paradigm-shifting concepts of dominator and partnership societies, applying them to the context of our own families. Eisler's model, rooted in historical evidence and cultural practices, offers a spectrum approach to understanding societal structures. Focusing on family and childhood relations within the dominator and partnership systems, we discussed actionable steps to nurture a partnership family, emphasizing democratic decision-making and equal partnerships. Eisler's work goes beyond critique, providing a blueprint for transformative change, with broader societal implications—shaping empathetic citizens, addressing racism, and preparing children for the demands of the 21st-century economy. The episode concludes with the recognition that implementing partnership values in our families contributes to creating a compassionate and egalitarian society, with ripple effects extending far beyond our homes.
Read MoreMerry Christmas! In this “Christmas Card” episode of Rebel Mothers, Susie celebrates the milestone of reaching the 10th episode. Reflecting on the journey so far, she shares the joys and challenges of podcasting and gratitude for the supportive messages and interactions from listeners.
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