Episode 382: The Rise of Misogyny: What Midlife Women Need to Know with Laurie James

Laurie James, somatic practitioner, coach, and author of Sandwiched, returns to talk about the rise of misogyny and what it means for women inside their relationships, their families, and the broader culture. This is a conversation we've both been having for years—in our own lives and with the women we work with every day—and it felt like time to have it out loud, together.

Throughout our conversation, we unpack what misogyny actually is, how it shows up in ways women are often taught to minimize or normalize, and what living with it does to the body and nervous system over time. We also talk about what happens when the overwhelm becomes so intense that even identifying the next step—let alone making a plan—feels impossible.

And we get into the question of when survival is no longer enough. When is it time to stop simply getting through the day and begin pushing back, speaking up, or making a change? That timing is deeply personal, and it matters more than people often realize.

We're not having this conversation to frighten women or tell them what they should do. We're having it so they can better understand what they're experiencing, trust what their bodies have been telling them, and begin finding their way toward safety.

What you'll hear about in this episode:

What misogyny actually means and how it can show up inside a relationship (7:34)

The physical toll of living under chronic stress, including the possible connection to autoimmune disease (13:36)

Practical ways to regulate your nervous system when you're too overwhelmed to think clearly, much less make a plan (18:53)

What current data reveals about the rise of misogyny in the United States over the past several years (25:35)

Why healing may need to come before advocacy (36:03)

How to approach dating with less fear in a cultural climate that can make it feel increasingly unsafe (38:42)

Learn more about Laurie James: