Intersectionality Lab

About Intersectionality Lab

This podcast is a transnational online broadcast that promotes awareness and informal dialogues about gender equality, intersectionality, and human rights. Our main objective is to promote and increase social consciousness through content, shared experiences, practical tools and deep critical thinking.

Publisher

Intersectionality Lab

Category

education · science · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Mar 2026

Latest episode

6 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   6 Sept 2026

   The Growing Value Edition – Introduction

   Welcome to the very first episode of Intersectionality Lab’s Growing Value special edition, where money meets social justice, and financial literacy becomes a tool for liberation. This isn’t your typical finance podcast. Growing Value is an intersectional guide to financial empowerment, created especially for those too often left out of discussions around wealth in mind, as in the case of women, LGBTQI+ people, BIPOC people, people facing economic hardship, or people with disabilities, the central aim of this edition is to share knowledge and engage, offering tools for anyone to be able to build financial literacy, despite their backgrounds. Here, we break down the gates around financial knowledge and rebuild from the ground up - together. Across this series, we will continuously challenging normative misogynistic, colonialist, classist and other prejudices supporting systems of inequality behind the gatekeeping of this knowledge, throughout this series of episodes we will be covering the basics and moving through more advanced topics step by step, offering hands-on tips and making some pit stops along the way to discuss the history of finances. Each episode closes with the segment “Connect & Reflect”, where we share resources that you can use to do a deep dive into what we've covered. Some will be a conversation among the team and in others we will hear experts in various topics, specially featuring in-house financial expert Yesha, whose background in finance and drive for social equality, independence and prosperity through financial knowledge will prove invaluable. You will be able to meet Yesha, our team - Intersectionality Lab’s founder Ana Catarina and Inga - and their backgrounds in this first episode, where a general introduction to the edition and its topic will be made. If you’ve ever felt like finance “wasn’t for you”, this is your invitation in. Additional resources Definition of Wealth: https://thisvsthat.io/capitalist-vs-non-capitalist

2. 

   23 Aug 2026

   Natures-connection-to-immigration-experiences

   In this episode of the Intersectionality Lab Podcast, our team comes together for an open and honest conversation about an often-overlooked aspect of migration: the relationship between nature and the immigrant experience. Drawing from our own journeys as immigrant women building lives in Portugal, we explore how natural environments shape our sense of belonging, identity, and well-being. From searching for landscapes that remind us of home to navigating unfamiliar outdoor spaces, we reflect on the ways nature can offer comfort, connection, and continuity during periods of transition. Our discussion touches on the barriers many immigrant women face in accessing nature, including cultural expectations, safety concerns, and questions of accessibility. We also examine how Portugal’s natural environment influences our experiences of settlement and adaptation, and why the ability to connect with nature can be so important in feeling at home. Whether experienced in solitude as a place of refuge and reflection, or shared with others as a space for community and connection, nature plays different roles in each of our lives. Together, we unpack how our childhood experiences, cultural backgrounds, and memories of home continue to shape the ways we engage with the natural world today. This deeply personal episode explores how nature can both bridge and reveal the complexities of immigration, offering insight into the emotional landscapes that accompany the journey of building a new home. Additional resources The hidden life of trees (book, 2017 & documentary, 2020) - Peter Wohlleben (author) & Jörg Adolph (director) https://www.imdb.com/video/vi2705309721/ Into the wild (book, 1996 & movie, 2007) - Jon Krakauer (author); Sean Penn (director) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0758758/ The way (movie, 2010) - Emilio Estevez (director) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1441912/ Delhi-6 (movie, 2009) - Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra (director) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1043451

3. 

   9 Aug 2026

   Authority Gap

   In this episode of The Intersectionality Lab Podcast, we explore the concept of the authority gap—the subtle but persistent ways women and marginalized voices are underestimated in both professional and personal spaces. Drawing inspiration from Mary Ann Sieghart’s book Authority Gap, we unpack how societal biases shape who gets heard, recognized, and valued. While our conversation primarily reflects the experiences of cisgender men and women, we highlight that the authority gap extends far beyond this binary. Through personal stories, academic and professional examples, and real-life reflections, we examine how this gap shows up in everyday interactions and the broader systems that perpetuate it. We also emphasize an intersectional perspective, exploring how race, sexuality, disability, and other identities influence the ways authority is perceived and granted. The episode offers insights, practical strategies, and recommended readings to help listeners navigate and challenge these inequalities. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about recognition, equity, and reshaping the way society listens. Additional resources Sieghart, M.A. (2021).The Authority Gap: Why women are still taken less seriously than men, and what we can do about it. Doubleday. https://www.amazon.com/Authority-Gap-women-still-seriously/dp/0857527568 Schrader, M. (director). (2022). She Said [Film]. Universal Pictures; Annapurna Pictures; Plan B Entertainment; Dentsu. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11198810 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5pxUQecM3Y Sontag, S. (2023) On Women. Penguin Books. https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/452365/on-women-by-sontag-susan/9780241996843 TED Talk - Why are women still taken less seriously than men?: https://www.ted.com/talks/mary_ann_sieghart_why_are_women_still_taken_less_seriously_than_men

4. 

   26 Jul 2026

   Gendered Ageism: erasure from society

   On this episode of Intersectionality Lab, we sit down with Danusia Garrison-Chedvinsky—a leading voice in philosophy, international peace, and justice—to unpack a form of discrimination that often goes unnamed but deeply felt: gendered ageism. Danusia breaks down how middle-aged and older women are pushed to the margins in a culture that equates worth with youth. As women gain experience, wisdom, and influence, they paradoxically face a cultural “disappearance.” She introduces the powerful concept of symbolic annihilation—the media’s systematic erasure of older women as complex, desirable, and relevant human beings. Far from harmless, she argues, this erasure is a form of violence that strips women of visibility and power while reinforcing narrow stereotypes about beauty, value, and femininity. We explore how these narratives play out differently across cultures, contrasting the U.S. obsession with youth against more age-inclusive norms in parts of Asia and Europe—especially in industries like modeling and dating. From Hollywood storylines to dating apps, Danusia dissects the “male gaze” that normalizes older men partnering with much younger women, while older women are cast as invisible or undesirable. She exposes the transactional undercurrents of modern dating—where wealth, youth, and validation collide—and explains why many older women are opting out altogether rather than stepping into roles as caregivers or status symbols. But this conversation doesn’t end in critique—it moves toward action. Danusia calls for both macro- and micro-activism, urging systemic change alongside personal reckoning. She challenges listeners to confront their own internalized ageism and reimagine aging not as decline, but as expansion. This episode is a bold, eye-opening look at power, perception, and what it truly means to be seen. Guest bio Danusia is a multi-hyphenate renaissance person. As a former professor of human rights and conflict negotiations, Danusia's fiction writing is steeped in social commentary. She is currently working on a collection of short stories in the science fiction genre. Forever a student of the human condition, Danusia writes brand copy for emerging start-ups and advises on strategy boards. Danusia is also a model based in New York City. She has done everything from small outerwear brands to major beauty campaigns and runways. She is set to enter the European market this spring. Danusia has appeared with Off-Broadway Comedy sketch troupes and frequents open mic comedy and storytelling events in Brooklyn, NY. She is developing a comedic character on TikTok and pursuing commercial and voiceover acting. Follow Danusia at instagram.com/danusiagnyc Additional resources Edström, M. (2018). Visibility patterns of gendered ageism in the media buzz: a study of the representation of gender and age over three decades. Feminist Media Studies, 18(1), 77–93. https://doi.org/10.1080/14680777.2018.1409989 Gewirtz-Meydan, A., & Ayalon, L. (2017). Forever young: Visual representations of gender and age in online dating sites for older adults. Journal of Women & Aging, 30(6), 484–502. https://doi.org/10.1080/08952841.2017.1330586 Jyrkinen, M. (2014). Women managers, careers and gendered ageism. Scandinavian Journal of Management, 30(2), 175-185. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scaman.2013.07.002

5. 

   12 Jul 2026

   Body Image and Mass Media: how we shape ourselves

   In this episode of The Intersectionality Lab Podcast, hosts Almina, Inga, and Ana Catarina explore the powerful influence of mass media on body image. From social media trends and advertisements to entertainment industries, they examine how external pressures shape the way we see ourselves. The conversation traces body image ideals from historical standards to today’s social media-driven culture, unpacking the psychological and societal effects of unrealistic beauty norms. Through personal stories, research insights, and reflection, the hosts discuss body dissatisfaction, self-esteem challenges, and how these narratives affect people across different gender identities. Are we truly in control of our self-image—or are we being shaped by external forces? More importantly, how can we deconstruct harmful beauty standards and foster healthier relationships with our bodies? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that encourages reflection, empowerment, and media literacy. Additional resources Wolf, N. (2002). The Beauty Myth: How Images of Beauty Are Used Against Women―a Feminist Critique on Society's Obsession with Flawless Women. Harper Perennial https://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Myth-Images-Against-Women/dp/0060512180 Fletcher. A. (2018). Dumplin' [Film]. 50 Degrees Entertainment; COTA Films; Echo Films https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4878482 Fargeat, C. (2024). The Substance [Film]. Working Title Films; Blacksmith; A Good Story https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17526714 Weisman, A. (2021-2023). Physical [TV Series]. Fabrication; ITV Studios; Parasox; Tomorrow Studios https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11828492

6. 

   28 Jun 2026

   Bodily Autonomy: A fundamental right

   What does it really mean to have control over your own body? In this unfiltered episode of The Intersectionality Lab Podcast, hosts Ana Catarina and Inga dive deep into bodily autonomy—the fundamental right to make decisions about your body without coercion, discrimination, or external control. From reproductive rights and consent to gender expression and healthcare access, bodily autonomy touches every aspect of human dignity. Yet restrictive laws, cultural norms, and systemic inequalities continue to challenge this right worldwide. Through research, personal reflections, and real-life examples, the hosts unpack the power dynamics that shape our bodies and the global fight to reclaim control. This episode also explores how bodily autonomy intersects with gender justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and reproductive freedoms, highlighting the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. Tune in to understand the stakes, reflect on your own experiences, and learn how we can collectively foster a society that prioritizes choice, agency, and dignity. Additional resources Atwood, M. (1998). The Handmaid's Tale: A Novel. Vintage Classics Atwood, M. (1998). The Handmaid's Tale: A Novel. Vintage Classics https://shop.penguin.co.uk/products/the-handmaids-tale-by-margaret-atwood-1 Curtis, S. (2018). Feminists Don't Wear Pink and Other Lies: Amazing Women on What the F-Word Means to Them. Ballantine Books. https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/309386/feminists-dont-wear-pink-and-other-lies-by-scarlett-curtis/9780241418369 UNFPA (2021). State of World's Population Report 2021. Retrieved 6th December, 2024 from https://www.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/SoWP2021_Report_-_EN_web.3.21_0.pdf United Nations Populations Fund (n.d.). Retrieved 6th December, 2024 from https://www.unfpa.org/sowp-2021/autonomy UN OHCHR Statements (2024). Bodily autonomy, dignity and freedom of choice. Retrieved 6th December, 2024 from https://www.ohchr.org/en/statements/2024/09/bodily-autonomy-dignity-and-freedom-choice-must-be-respected-say-un-experts Resilience (2024). Body Autonomy and Survivor Safety. Retrieved 6th December 2024 from https://resiliencemi.org/body-autonomy/ MSI United States (n.d.). My body, my choice: Defending bodily autonomy. Retrieved 6th December 2024 from https://www.msiunitedstates.org/my-body-my-choice-defending-bodily-autonomy/ ARASA TALP (n.d.). Bodily Autonomy, Bodily Integrity and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. Retrieved 6th December 2024 from https://arasa.info/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/TALP-Module-1-BAI-.pdf

7. 

   14 Jun 2026

   The Istanbul Convention: Türkiye’s Withdrawal and current challenges

   In this episode of the Intersectionality Lab podcast, Hilal is joined by Ana Catarina and special guest Ezel Buse Sönmezocak, feminist lawyer and Advocacy Coordinator at Women for Women’s Human Rights, to discuss Türkiye’s withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention. Ezel brings years of experience advocating for women’s and LGBTQI+ rights, both professionally and voluntarily. Together, the team unpacks what the Istanbul Convention represents, the implications of Türkiye’s decision, and the current challenges faced by activists and communities on the ground. Join this insightful conversation to understand the stakes of this pivotal moment for gender equality and human rights in Türkiye, and hear firsthand perspectives from those fighting for change. Guest bio She was born in Istanbul in 1991. Feminist, lawyer. For more than 15 years, she has been working professionally and/or voluntarily in the field of women's and LGBTQI+ rights. She is currently the advocacy coordinator at the Women for Women's Human Rights Association. She received her LL.M. in International Human Rights Law from Lund University and her PhD in Public Law from Koç University. Her research focuses on human rights law, philosophy of law, legal theory and gender studies. She is also a musician and plays drums. Additional resources Women for Women’s Human Rights (WWHR) https://wwhr.org/ Action against violence against women and domestic violence - Istanbul Convention: https://www.coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention Text of the Istanbul Convention: https://www.coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention/text-of-the-convention The Istanbul Convention: A tool to tackle violence against women and girls https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/ATAG/2018/630297/EPRS_ATA(2018)630297_EN.pdf Women for Women’s Human Rights (WWHR) https://wwhr.org/international-conventions-and-mechanisms/the-istanbul-convention/

8. 

   31 May 2026

   Financial Literacy: a path to freedom and independence

   Did you know only 18% of EU citizens have a high level of financial literacy? In this episode of The Intersectionality Lab podcast, we unpack what that really means—and why it matters for everyone. Financial literacy isn’t just about budgeting—it’s about making informed choices when opening bank accounts, taking out loans, investing, or avoiding scams. Yet studies show that women, young people, lower-income individuals, and those with less formal education often face gaps in financial knowledge. These disparities extend further, affecting people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ communities, and people of color, who encounter systemic barriers to financial education, employment, and wealth-building opportunities. With inflation, rising interest rates, and a complex financial landscape, understanding money has never been more critical. Join us as we explore how financial literacy intersects with inequality, why it’s essential for personal and collective well-being, and what can be done to empower more people to navigate their finances with confidence. Additional resources Huff, D. & Calman, M. (1991 )."How to Lie with Statistics". Penguin books https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/13565/how-to-lie-with-statistics-by-darrell-huff-with-pictures-by-mel-calman/9780140136296 Kahneman D. (2012). "Thinking, Fast and Slow". Penguin books https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/56314/thinking-fast-and-slow-by-kahneman-daniel/9780141033570 Dunlap, T. (2022).  Financial Feminist: Overcome the Patriarchy’s Bullsh*t to Master Your Money and Build a Life You Love―A Personal Finance Handbook for Women, Mindful Spending, and Financial Literacy. Dey Street Books https://www.harpercollins.com/products/financial-feminist-tori-dunlap & https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/financial-feminist-overcome-the-patriarchys-bullsht-to-master-your-money-and-build-a-life-you-love-tori-dunlap Bruegel. (2023). The state of financial knowledge in the European Union: Gender and age disparities. Retrieved from https://www.bruegel.org/policy-brief/state-financial-knowledge-european-union European Commission. (2023, July). Financial literacy – Eurobarometer survey results. Retrieved from https://finance.ec.europa.eu/consumer-finance-and-payments/financial-literacy_en European Commission. (n.d.). Financial literacy. Retrieved from https://finance.ec.europa.eu/consumer-finance-and-payments/financial-literacy_en European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA). (n.d.). How do inflation and the rise in interest rates affect my money? Retrieved from https://www.eiopa.europa.eu/document/download/fb8310de-bcf4-410d-b9b1-f04b40b25a03_en European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA). (n.d.). Investment, loan, insurance or pensions with a sustainable focus: What do you need to know? Retrieved from https://www.esma.europa.eu/document/download European Disability Forum. (2023). The impact of the cost of living crisis on persons with disabilities. Retrieved from https://www.edf-feph.org/the-impact-of-the-cost-of-living-crisis-on-persons-with-disabilities/ Eurostat. (2023). Disability statistics: Financial situation and poverty risk. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Disability_statistics_-_financial_situation Mercer. (2022). A new approach to financial wellness for LGBTQ employees. Retrieved from https://www.mercer.com/insights/talent-and-transformation/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/a-new-approach-to-financial-wellness-for-lgbtq-employees/Williams Institute. (2019). National LGBTQ+ poverty study. Retrieved from https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/publications/national-lgbtq-poverty-study/

9. 

   17 May 2026

   Gender bias in AI: rethinking invisible norms

   In this unfiltered episode, Inga is joined by Marianna, Muskaan, and Almina for an open, unscripted conversation that blends personal experiences, cultural observations, and critical reflection. Today’s topic: gender bias in AI, AI assistants, and the idea of digital domesticity. Why do so many virtual assistants default to women’s voices? What assumptions about care, service, and authority are quietly coded into the technologies we use every day? And how do historical gender roles resurface in supposedly “neutral” innovations? From algorithmic bias to the feminization of digital labor, the team unpacks how artificial intelligence can reinforce — or challenge — existing power structures. Thoughtful, candid, and reflective, this episode invites you to rethink the invisible norms shaping our digital world. Additional resources Garland, A. (Director). (2014). Ex Machina [Film]. A24; Universal Pictures; Film4; DNA Films; AC Films; Scott Rudin Productions https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0470752/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy Hillenburg S. & Jennings N.& Hill,T (Executive Producer). (1999 - present). SpongeBob SquarePants [TV series]. Nickelodeon Animation Studios; Nicktoons Productions; United Plankton Pictures https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0206512/?ref_=ttco_ov_bk

10. 

    3 May 2026

    Overconsumption and the normalizations of excess

    What if the things we’re told will make us happy are actually costing us more than we think? In this episode of the Intersectionality Lab podcast, Muskaan and Almina — joined by Hilal — unpack the culture of overconsumption and the powerful systems that keep it alive. From the constant churn of fast fashion to the staggering food waste generated by global fast-food chains, they explore how “more” became synonymous with success, status, and happiness. Grounded in research and everyday observation, the conversation breaks down how overconsumption shows up in our daily routines — in what we wear, what we eat, and what we throw away. Why do brands release new collections daily? How did convenience culture normalize excess? And who ultimately pays the environmental and social price? Tune in for a reflective and eye-opening discussion that challenges the idea that fulfillment can be bought — and asks what a more sustainable, intentional future could look like. Additional resources Verrette, T. (Director). (2021). Zero gravity [Documentary]. Skylight Cinema; 20th Digital Studio. https://vimeo.com/756899043?fl=pl&fe=sh Stanton, A. (Director). (2008) WALL·E [Film]. Walt Disney Pictures; Pixar Animation Studios; FortyFour Studios https://www.imdb.com/pt/title/tt0910970/?ref_=ttco_ov_bk Hogan, P.J.(Director). (2009). Confessions of a Shopaholic [Film]. Touchstone Pictures; Jerry Bruckheimer Films https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1093908 Crane, D. & Kauffman, M. (Executive Producer). (1994–2004). Friends [TV Series]. Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions; Warner Bros. Television https://www.imdb.com/pt/title/tt0108778 Johansen,S & Rivo, S. (Director). (2019). Broken. [Film]. Zero Point Zero Production; Netflix. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11168226

11. 

    19 Apr 2026

    “Toxic femininity”: is it empowering, misleading, or something in between?

    What is “toxic femininity” — and is the term empowering, misleading, or something in between? In this unfiltered episode of The Intersectionality Lab, host Almina is joined by Muskaan, Gillian, and Ana Catarina for a bold, nuanced conversation about one of today’s most debated gender concepts. Together, they unpack the origins of toxic femininity, the stereotypes and social pressures that shape it, and the ways it can reinforce — rather than dismantle — harmful gender norms. Blending personal reflections with cultural analysis and academic perspectives, the hosts explore how expectations around agreeableness, appearance, competition, and “niceness” intersect with benevolent sexism and broader systems of inequality. From viral social media trends to everyday workplace dynamics, they examine how these patterns show up in real life — and who they impact most. Provocative, reflective, and deeply intersectional, this episode invites you to question assumptions, challenge binaries, and rethink what gender norms are really doing beneath the surface. Tune in and join the conversation. Additional resources Anderson, K. V. (2023, August 8). The movie “Barbie” has put the phrase “toxic femininity” back in the news – here’s what it means and why you should care. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-movie-barbie-has-put-the-phrase-toxic-femininity-back-in-the-news-heres-what-it-means-and-why-you-should-care-205884 Glick, Peter & Fiske, Susan. (1996). The Ambivalent Sexism Inventory: Differentiating Hostile and Benevolent Sexism. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 70. 491-512. doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.70.3.491 Naraharisetty, R. (2022).The Internet Wants to Talk About “Toxic Femininity,” but Gets It All Wrong. Www.theswaddle.com. https://www.theswaddle.com/the-internet-wants-to-talk-about-toxic-femininity-but-gets-it-all-wrong Saxena, T. (n.d.). Is toxic femininity a thing? Deccan Herald. https://www.deccanherald.com/features/gender/is-toxic-femininity-a-thing-2716864 Strong, R. (2022, June 26). Identifying and Overcoming Toxic Femininity. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/toxic-femininity Risam, R. (2015). Toxic Femininity 4.0. First Monday, Volume 20, Number 4. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.13013/416

12. 

    5 Apr 2026

    “Toxic” Masculinity: harmful masculine ideals

    In this episode of the Intersectionality Lab Podcast, host Almina sits down with scientist and gender equality activist David Almeida to unpack the roots and realities of toxic masculinity. Together, they explore how rigid ideas of manhood shape everything from childhood socialization to workplace culture — and why these norms continue to limit people of all genders. From the stigma men face around vulnerability and mental health to the ways harmful masculine ideals fuel misogyny and homophobia, this conversation digs into the research, the backlash, and the lived experiences behind the headlines. David brings years of anti-discrimination and social justice work to the table, challenging us to rethink what strength, leadership, and identity can look like. This episode goes beyond critique — it’s about possibility. What would masculinity look like if it embraced emotional honesty, accountability, and equality? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on moving from toxic masculinity to a healthier, more inclusive vision of manhood. You can check more resources at https://il.npo.one Guest bio David Almeida is a social justice advocate, sustainability enthusiast, and civic participation activist with nearly a decade of experience in grassroots organizing and advocacy. His recent work has focused on gender equality, while his broader interests span topics from artificial intelligence and climate justice to epistemic decolonisation. David currently works in scientific software development for a climate change programme at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis in Austria. He brings an interdisciplinary background in Data Science and Cell and Molecular Biology to his work at the intersection of science, technology, and social impact. Previously, he contributed to anti-corruption efforts at Transparency International Portugal, supporting initiatives that promote accountability and democratic integrity. https://davidalmeida.eu Additional resources Bernstein, M. (2024). What’s the weirdest thing you’ve been told you can’t do because it’s ‘gay’? https://www.instagram.com/p/DBj70xFBv0I Connell, R. W., & Messerschmidt, J. W. (2005). Hegemonic Masculinity: Rethinking the Concept. Gender & Society, 19(6), 829–859. https://doi.org/10.1177/0891243205278639 Edwards, S. (2020). Toxic Masculinity: Roots, Reality, and Breaking the Cycle . https://doi.org/10.17615/j2wy-sj91 Kupers, T. A. (2005). Toxic masculinity as a barrier to mental health treatment in prison. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 61(6), 713–724. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.20105 Makhanya, M. T. B. (2023). Causes and Consequences of Toxic Masculinity: Can HeForShe Be a Solution for Gender-Based Violence? https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.110872 Sculos, B. W. (2017). Who’s Afraid of ‘Toxic Masculinity’? Class, Race and Corporate Power, 5(3). https://www.jstor.org/stable/48645481 UN Women (2024) HeForShe Alliance Impact Report 2024 Launch, HeForShe. Available at: https://www.heforshe.org/en/heforshe-alliance-impact-report-2024-launch (Accessed: 27 October 2024). Zega, O. D. K., Koritelu, P., & Murwani, P. (2024). Fighting Stereotypes: Expressions of Femininity in Public Spaces and the Challenge of Toxic Masculinity. Baileo: Jurnal Sosial Humaniora, 2(1), 18-26. https://doi.org/10.30598/baileofisipvol2iss1pp18-26

13. 

    22 Mar 2026

    Queer Svit: a response to when systems fail

    In today’s episode, we spotlight the fearless, community-driven work of Queer Svit — a Black queer-led, independent volunteer network standing at the frontlines of crisis response for LGBTQ+ people, people of color, and Indigenous communities across Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, and throughout Eastern Europe and Central Asia. For decades, war, displacement, and political persecution have disproportionately targeted queer communities and marginalized ethnic groups in the region. When borders close and systems fail, Queer Svit steps in. From emergency consultations and evacuation planning to purchasing travel tickets, securing safe housing, and delivering life-saving humanitarian aid, this global network of volunteers is redefining what grassroots solidarity looks like in action. We’re joined by Anna-Maria, Co-founder and CEO of Queer Svit, who shares the powerful origin story behind the organization, the urgent realities facing LGBTQ+ refugees today, and how mutual aid can become a lifeline in times of war. This is a conversation about resilience, chosen family, and what it truly means to build safety when the world feels unsafe. You can check more resources at https://il.npo.one Guest bio Anna-Maria, queer and anti-racist activist, documentary filmmaker and journalist. Co-founder of Queer Svit, a grass-root that helps queer people and the global majority affected by war in Ukraine and/or Russian political regime. Additional resources https://queersvit.org https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziIhJjCnL84 https://www.uusc.org/initiatives/queer-svit https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-maria-tesfaye-22028712a https://instagram.com/ennievicious

14. 

    8 Mar 2026

    About Intersectionality: The origin story

    Welcome to The Intersectionality Podcast—a fresh chapter of the former Pink Talks Podcast, hosted by Ana Catarina, Inga, and Debora. In our debut episode, we dive headfirst into intersectionality—the powerful framework that helps us understand how overlapping identities like race, gender, class, and sexuality shape lived experiences of privilege and discrimination. In this candid Unfiltered Session, our hosts break down what intersectionality really means, where it comes from, and why it matters now more than ever. Through honest reflection and sharp discussion, we explore everyday situations, systemic inequalities, and the power dynamics that often go unnoticed—but deeply affect our lives. From using intersectionality as an analytical lens to reveal how systems of power operate, to real-world examples like domestic violence policies and participatory research with marginalized youth, this episode brings theory into practice. Along the way, our hosts share how learning about intersectionality transformed their perspectives, influenced their work, and deepened their understanding of inequality. 🎧 Tune in to rethink the way you see the world—and join the conversation. Visit our website for bonus resources, a comprehensive glossary, and updates on upcoming episodes. You can check more resources at https://il.npo.one Additional resources (books, reference materials, social media from guests, materials that the guests want to promote): Phoenix, A., & Pattynama, P. (2006). Intersectionality. European Journal of Women’s Studies, 13(3), 187-192. https://doi.org/10.1177/1350506806065751 (Original work published 2006) Shields, S.A. Gender: An Intersectionality Perspective. Sex Roles 59, 301–311 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11199-008-9501-8 McCall, L. (2005). The Complexity of Intersectionality. Signs, 30(3), 1771–1800. https://doi.org/10.1086/426800 RUNYAN, A. S. (2018). What Is Intersectionality and Why Is It Important? Academe, 104(6), 10–14. https://www.jstor.org/stable/26606288 Zinn, Maxine Baca & Dill, Bonnie Thornton (1996). Theorizing Difference from Multiracial Feminism. Feminist Studies 22 (2):321-331. Check the video in which Kinmerlè Crenshaw explains what is intersectionality: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViDtnfQ9FHc Crenshaw, Kimberle (1989) "Demarginalizing the Intersection of Race and Sex: A Black Feminist Critique of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory and Antiracist Politics," University of Chicago Legal Forum: Vol. 1989, Article 8. Available at: https://chicagounbound.uchicago.edu/uclf/vol1989/iss1/8 Crenshaw, K. (1991). Mapping the Margins: Intersectionality, Identity Politics, and Violence against Women of Color. Stanford Law Review, 43(6), 1241–1299. https://doi.org/10.2307/1229039 Levine-Rasky, C. (2011). Intersectionality theory applied to whiteness and middle-classness. Social Identities: Journal for the Study of Race, Nation and Culture, 17(2), 239–253. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504630.2011.558377 Helma Lutz. (2015). Intersectionality as Method. DiGeSt. Journal of Diversity and Gender Studies, 2(1–2), 39–44. https://doi.org/10.11116/jdivegendstud.2.1-2.0039 Atewologun, D. (2018). Intersectionality Theory and Practice. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Business and Management. Misra, J., Curington, C. V., & Green, V. M. (2021). Methods of intersectional research. Sociological Spectrum, 41(1), 9–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/02732173.2020.1791772 Ruiz AM, Luebke J, Klein K, Moore K, Gonzalez M, Dressel A, Mkandawire-Valhmu L. An integrative literature review and critical reflection of intersectionality theory. Nurs Inq. 2021 Dec;28(4):e12414. doi: 10.1111/nin.12414. Epub 2021 Jun 21. PMID: 34153140. Haynes, C., Joseph, N. M., Patton, L. D., Stewart, S., & Allen, E. L. (2020). Toward an Understanding of Intersectionality Methodology: A 30-Year Literature Synthesis of Black Women’s Experiences in Higher Education. Revi

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