Murder of Crones

In this episode, we explore the complex nature of toxic positivity, its origins, and its impact on emotional health. We discuss how societal and cultural pressures encourage us to suppress genuine feelings and the importance of emotional honesty and resilience. In this episode, the panel explores the complexities of toxic positivity, emotional resilience, and the importance of embracing all facets of human experience, including darkness and vulnerability. Kori, Zab and Jen discuss how societal norms, cultural influences, and personal experiences shape our emotional responses and perceptions of positivity.

 

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- Toxic positivity often leads to the denial and invalidation of authentic emotions.

- Society, especially women, has been conditioned to prioritize pleasantness over honesty.

- Mind over matter can be a powerful tool for resilience but can also be misused to dismiss real pain.

- Recognizing the difference between healthy optimism and toxic positivity is crucial for mental health.

- Acceptance of reality, including mortality, is essential for genuine well-being.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and topic of toxic positivity

00:13 Introduction to the complexities of human emotion

02:02 Manifesting versus wishing: understanding the difference

02:03 What is toxic positivity and how does it manifest?

04:13 Personal stories and experiences with toxic positivity

05:02 The role of genuine gratitude in emotional health

06:18 The blame and shame associated with illness and toxic positivity

09:22 Cultural roots and societal conditioning around positivity

09:57 Signs and impacts of toxic positivity

12:02 The importance of emotional honesty and validation

15:00 Cultural influences on emotional expression and positivity

15:21 Optimism versus toxic positivity: recognizing the difference

17:20 The concept of mind over matter and resilience in adversity

20:01 The importance of embracing darkness and sadness

20:12 Historical examples of mind over matter in extreme situations

23:11 Manifestation, positivity, and their intersection with toxic positivity

24:59 How societal norms shape our emotional responses

25:52 Acceptance, mortality, and living within one's reality

29:59 The influence of privilege and capitalism on positivity

35:00 Patriarchy and emotional labor in women

39:58 Community, resilience, and shared hardship

45:01 The role of spiritual beliefs and soul contracts

50:06 Balancing light and darkness in life

55:06 The value of vulnerability and authenticity

59:59 Conclusion: embracing the full spectrum of human experience

 

References:

Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Prentice Hall.

Ehrenreich, B. (2009). Bright-sided: How positive thinking is undermining America. Metropolitan Books.

Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press.

Goodman, R. D. (2022). Toxic positivity: Keeping it real in a world obsessed with being happy. Balance. (Popular psychology rather than primary research, but widely cited in discussions of the concept.)

Gross, J. J. (1998). The emerging field of emotion regulation: An integrative review. Review of General Psychology, 2(3), 271–299. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.2.3.271

Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2016). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

Lerner, M. J. (1980). The belief in a just world: A fundamental delusion. Plenum Press.

Mauss, I. B., Tamir, M., Anderson, C. L., & Savino, N. S. (2011). Can seeking happiness make people unhappy? Emotion, 11(4), 807–815. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0022010

Susan David. (2016). Emotional agility: Get unstuck, embrace change, and thrive in work and life. Avery.

Wood, J. V., Perunovic, W. Q. E., & Lee, J. W. (2009). Positive self-statements: Power for some, peril for others. Psychological Science, 20(7), 860–866. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2009.02370.x

 

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.

Join hosts Zabrina, Kori and Jen while they explore the fascinating science behind menopause, the grandmother hypothesis, and the role of elders in human evolution and society. Discover how ancient wisdom and modern research reveal the importance of community, memory, and intergenerational support.

 

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- The grandmother hypothesis and its role in human evolution

- The rarity and significance of menopause in nature

- The importance of elders in traditional societies

- Research on hunter-gatherer communities and food sharing

- The evolution of human babies and cooperative breeding

- The discovery of menopause in chimpanzees and implications

- The cultural significance of the crone and aging women

- The impact of modern society on intergenerational support

- The importance of community and collective caregiving

- The value of wisdom and oral tradition in societies

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the grandmother hypothesis and its significance

02:13 Menopause in nature and its evolutionary mystery

03:09 The role of grandmothers in child survival and knowledge transfer

08:16 The evolution of helpless human babies and cooperative breeding

09:50 Sarah Hardy's research on helplessness and brain development

12:19 Humans as cooperative breeders and the village concept

20:32 The role of older female orcas and other species in survival

21:50 Menopause in other species and its evolutionary roots

24:29 Chimpanzees and the evolution of menopause

26:33 Reevaluating the grandmother hypothesis with new evidence

27:10 The societal impact of losing intergenerational support

30:08 Trusting intuition and passing down wisdom

32:02 The importance of cultural transmission and oral knowledge

37:11 The cultural significance of the crone and aging women

40:23 The role of elders as community guides and memory keepers

42:36 The value of women as knowledge keepers beyond motherhood

43:21 The indigenous perspective on elders and community support

45:46 Raising children in community and the importance of collective effort

46:00 Conclusion: Wisdom, community, and the future of society

 

References:

Dunsworth, H. M., et al. (2012). Metabolic hypothesis for human altriciality. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(38), 15212–15216.

Hawkes, K. (2009). Evaluating grandmother effects. American Anthropologist, 111(2), 230–233. 

Hrdy, S. B. (2009). Mothers and others: The evolutionary origins of mutual understanding. Harvard University Press. 

Nattrass, S., et al. (2019). Postreproductive killer whale grandmothers improve the survival of their grand offspring. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 116(52), 26669–26673. 

Wood, B. M., et al. (2023). Demographic and hormonal evidence for menopause in wild chimpanzees. Science, 382(6669), eadd5473. 

 

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

This episode explores the concept of the mental load and invisible labor in household and relationship dynamics, highlighting how these responsibilities are often unevenly distributed and how they impact mental health and gender roles. This episode explores the complex layers of mental load, unpaid labor, and gender roles within households, emphasizing how societal norms influence responsibilities and the importance of recognizing unpaid work. The Crones discuss strategies for equitable division of labor, the impact of gendered expectations, and the emotional toll of caregiving and household management.

 

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- Everyone carries mental load, but women often carry a disproportionate share.

- Invisible labor includes planning, remembering, and emotional support, not just physical tasks.

- Accepting different standards of task completion can reduce conflict.

- Open communication about responsibilities can help balance mental load.

- Men are increasingly participating in active roles, but unintentional burden still exists.

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the concept of mental load and its importance

06:55 — Intro to the episode: feminism, domestic labor, and the mental load

12:38 — Why inclusion matters: heteronormativity, same-gender couples, and feminism

22:36 — “Would you rather?” game: kitchen labor, meal planning, appointments, and laundry

29:41 — Physical chores vs. invisible mental load

32:33 — What mental load includes: life admin, emotional labor, safety, planning, and decision fatigue

37:15 — Why mental load is boundless and hard to see

40:35 — What each person would miss if their family disappeared overnight

43:05 — Who carries the organizing in relationships and friendships

47:00 — Expectations we place on ourselves and what can be let go

49:47 — Menopause, depletion, and why the load feels heavier with age

57:13 — Helicopter parenting, shared caregiving, and microman

61:04 — Why unpaid labor is undervalued in capitalist systems

64:16 — The changing role of fathers and the burden of teaching kids chores

71:14 — Emotional labor, caregiving, and supporting loved ones

75:28 — Aging parents, caregiving, and the burden on women

78:04 — The wage gap, the “mother tax,” and lost earning potential

80:28 — AI, entry-level work, and how mental load affects political participation

82:18 — Same-gender couples and how labor gets divided more intentionally

88:44 — What each person would automate away forever

93:51 — Wrap-up and final thoughts on reducing mental load

 

References:

Aydin, Bursa. “Mental Load: The Invisible Weight Women Carry.” Psychology Times, 16 July 2025, https://psychologytimes.co.uk/mental-load-the-invisible-weight-women-carry/.

Dean, L., Churchill, B., & Ruppanner, L. (2022). The mental load: building a deeper theoretical understanding of how

cognitive and emotional labor overload women and mothers. Community, Work & Family, 25(1), 13–29. https://doi.org/10.1080/13668803.2021.2002813  

 

“Care in the Time of Coronavirus.” Oxfam Canada, June 2025, https://www.oxfam.ca/publication/care-in-the-time-of-coronavirus/. 

“FAQs: What is unpaid care work and how does it power the economy?” UN Women, October 2025, https://www.unwomen.org/en/articles/faqs/faqs-what-is-unpaid-care-work-and-how-does-it-power-the-economy.

McLean, Caitlan, et al. “The Management of Cognitive Labour in Same-Gender Couples.” PLoS

 ONE, vol. 18, no. 7, July 2023, pp. 1–27. EBSCOhost, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0287585.

McMunn, Anne. “Unpaid labour is a neglected social determinant of health,” The Lancet Public Health. 8, e250-e251                                                                                                                     “Pandemic brings a crisis of care for women.” Global Affairs Canada, 9 February 2026, https://www.international.gc.ca/world-monde/stories-histoires/2021/women-care-crisis-crise-soins-femmes.aspx?lang=eng.  

 

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

 

Join Kori, Zab & Jan as they explore the history, cultural significance, and societal perceptions of menstruation across different cultures and eras. It delves into how menstruation was once revered as a source of power and spirituality, and how it became stigmatized and regulated over time. This episode explores the history, cultural perceptions, and politics of menstruation, highlighting how societal attitudes have evolved and the ongoing challenges women face. Join us as we delve into the myths, marketing, and policy issues surrounding menstrual health.

 

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- Many cultures historically viewed menstruation as a spiritual power rather than impurity.

- Ancient societies celebrated menstruation with rituals and regarded it as a connection to fertility.

- Religious laws, especially in Judeo-Christian traditions, contributed to the perception of menstruation as impure.

- Modern society has shifted from reverence to regulation and shame around menstruation.

- Understanding the cultural history of menstruation can help challenge current stigmas.

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the cultural significance of menstruation

01:14 Menstruation as a universal human experience and its history

02:07 From sacred power to societal regulation

10:22 Cultural beliefs and rituals around menstruation in indigenous societies

13:07 Menstruation as a spiritual connection in Native American cultures

14:30 Menstruation and feminine power in indigenous traditions

18:34 Celebrations and rituals honoring menstruation in different cultures

22:28 The modern shift: from sacred to shame and regulation

27:14 Historical beliefs about menstruation and religious influences

33:39 The impact of religious laws and myths on menstrual perceptions

36:54 The influence of early science and societal beliefs on menstrual stigma

 

References:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2023). Vaginitis. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org

Buckley, T., & Gottlieb, A. (Eds.). (1988). Blood magic: The anthropology of menstruation. University of California Press.

Douglas, M. (1966). Purity and danger: An analysis of concepts of pollution and taboo. Routledge.

Gottlieb, A. (2004). The afterlife is where we come from: The culture of infancy in West Africa. University of Chicago Press.

Lerner, G. (1986). The creation of patriarchy. Oxford University Press.

Martin, E. (2001). The woman in the body: A cultural analysis of reproduction (Revised ed.). Beacon Press.

Office on Women's Health. (2024). Douching. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.womenshealth.gov

Pliny the Elder. (1855). The natural history of Pliny (J. Bostock & H. T. Riley, Trans.). Henry G. Bohn. (Original work published ca. 77 CE)

Smithsonian Institution. (n.d.). Feminine hygiene products. Retrieved from https://www.si.edu

The Holy Bible, Leviticus 15:19–33 (New Revised Standard Version or preferred edition).

Victoria and Albert Museum. (2026). Sanitary suspenders to Mooncups: A brief history of menstrual products. Retrieved from https://www.vam.ac.uk

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

This episode explores microfeminism and how small, intentional actions by women challenge gender norms and inequality. Zab, Kori & Jen discuss personal experiences, societal norms, and practical ways to challenge gender stereotypes and promote equality.

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- Microfeminism includes small, intentional actions that challenge gender norms.

- Examples include asking about feelings, changing language, and sharing household roles.

- Microfeminism can be safer, more sustainable, and less exhausting than traditional activism.

- Small acts like calling women first or refusing to hide menstrual products can make a difference.

- Men can support microfeminism by challenging stereotypes and sharing unpaid labor.

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to microfeminism and its significance

02:44 Challenging language and sarcasm in conversations 

10:09 Navigating workplace biases and advocating for recognition

21:27 Reclaiming space in social settings

36:33 Raising awareness about household roles and gender expectations

49:54 Interrupting old social norms in public spaces

65:52 Flipping derogatory comments and challenging stereotypes

88:34 Parenting and household labor alignment

107:33 Small actions that model equality

114:30 Microfeminism vs misandry

115:40 Final thoughts: small gestures as sparks for change

 

References:

Catalyst. (2020). Women in leadership: Why it matters. 

Hanisch, C. (1969). The personal is political. In Notes from the second year: Women’s liberation. Gender,Labor, and Social Roles                                                                                                                                                  Hochschild, A. R. (1989). The second shift: Working families and the revolution at home. Viking. LeanIn.Org & McKinsey & Company. (2023). Women in the workplace 2023.                                        

Mead, M. (n.d.). Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. 

Nelson, Z. (2026). Micro feminism moves: Small actions that create big change [Unpublished manuscript]. 

Rudman, L. A., & Glick, P. (2001). Prescriptive gender stereotypes and backlash toward agentic women. Journal of Social Issues, 57(4), 743–762. 

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

This episode explores the complex and nuanced issues surrounding trans athletes in sports, focusing on biological, hormonal, and societal factors. We delve into recent IOC rulings, scientific research gaps, and the broader implications for fairness and inclusion. This episode dives into the complex and often controversial topic of trans athletes in sports, examining biological, ethical, and societal perspectives. We explore how policies are shaped, the science behind physical advantages, and the importance of inclusive, evidence-based approaches.

 

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- The IOC's new rules require genetic testing for Y chromosomes in female athletes.

- Hormonal and chromosomal factors complicate the assessment of athletic advantage.

- There is a significant lack of research on trans bodies and athletic performance.

- Policies often target trans women, raising concerns about fairness and discrimination.

- Chromosomal anomalies like SRY can affect eligibility and are often misunderstood.

- A more inclusive approach might involve rethinking gender categories altogether.

- The science of gender and performance is evolving, but gaps remain.

- Trans athletes face risks of misclassification and unfair bans due to imperfect tests.

- Societal biases and political agendas influence sports policies.

- Creating fair and inclusive sports environments requires nuanced, science-based policies.

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to trans athletes and recent IOC rulings

01:59 Understanding gender identity, cisgender, and trans terminology

04:06 Biological factors influencing athletic performance

05:53 The IOC's genetic testing protocols and their implications

08:00 Hormones, testosterone, and athletic advantage

10:00 Chromosomal anomalies and their impact on eligibility

11:47 The science gaps and research challenges

14:02 Societal and political considerations in sports policies

16:01 Potential models for inclusive sports categories

18:06 Gender-neutral bathrooms and societal perceptions

19:57 The future of trans inclusion and fairness in sports

References:

“About — Chris Mosier.” Chris Mosier, https://www.thechrismosier.com/about-1. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Basina, Marina. “What are normal testosterone levels? Ages, males, females, and more.” Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323085#typical-levels. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Batista, Rafael Loch, and et. al. “Androgen insensitivity syndrome: a review - PMC.” PMC, Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 23 March 2018, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10118986/.

“Biological Foundations of Gender: Genes, Hormones, and Behavior.” Biological Foundations of Gender, Gender Studies, 23 September 2025, https://gender.study/?print-my-blog=1&post-type=post&statuses%5B0%5D=publish&rendering_wait=0&columns=1&font_size=normal&image_size=full&links=include&show_site_title=1&show_site_tagline=1&show_site_url=1&show_date_printed=1&show_title=1&show_url=1&show_da.

Daftardar, Ishan. “Scientific Analysis Of Michael Phelps's Body Structure » ScienceABC.” ScienceABC, https://www.scienceabc.com/sports/michael-phelps-height-arms-torso-arm-span-feet-swimming. Accessed 24 June 2026.

“Gender & Athletic Ability: Are Men Really Better Athletes Than Women?” Cathe Friedrich, 23 October 2016, https://cathe.com/gender-athletic-ability-men-really-better-athletes-women/.

Hamilton, Blair, et al. “Strength, power and aerobic capacity of transgender athletes: a cross-sectional study.” Open Access, Br J Sports Med, 2024, https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/bjsports/early/2024/04/10/bjsports-2023-108029.full.pdf.

Hunter, Sandra K., and Jonathon W. Senefeld. “Sex Difference in Human Performance.” The Physiological Society, The Journal of Physiology, 06 August 2024, https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/JP284198.

“International Olympic Committee announces new Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women's) Category in Olympic Sport.” Olympics.com, 26 March 2026, https://www.olympics.com/ioc/news/international-olympic-committee-announces-new-policy-on-the-protection-of-the-female-women-s-category-in-olympic-sport. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Joyner, Michael J., et al. “Evidence on Sex Differences in Sport Performance.” Journal of Applied Physiology, 2025, https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/japplphysiol.00615.2024.

“Lia Thomas.” Wikipedia, wikipedia.org, 17 June 2026, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lia_Thomas.

“Mixed-sex sports.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed-sex_sports. Accessed 24 June 2026.

“Puberty and Transitioning for Trans and Non-Binary Youth.” Kids Help Phone, 18 June 2019, https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/puberty-transitioning-trans-non-binary-youth/.

Ro, Christine. “The sports where women outperform men.” BBC, 1 August 2024, https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240731-the-sports-where-women-outperform-men.

Rohmer, Robert B., and Glynne Walley. “Androgen insensitivity syndrome.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Androgen_insensitivity_syndrome. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Sonksen, Peter H., et al. “Why do endocrine profiles in elite athletes differ between sports?” Springer Nature Link, Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology, 07 February 2018, https://doi.org/10.1186/s40842-017-0050-3.

Soriano, Daniel. “Semenya hurt over IOC's women's category stance.” Inside the Games, 28 March 2026, https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/semenya-voices-hurt-over-coventrys-trans-stance.

Stechyson, Natalie. “She won boxing gold. Now Imane Khelif has filed a harassment complaint over claims she's a man or transgender.” CBC, https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/summer/boxing/boxing-harassment-imane-khelif-1.7292457. Accessed 24 June 2026.

“Testosterone — What It Does And Doesn't Do.” Harvard Health, https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthy-aging-and-longevity/testosterone--what-it-does-and-doesnt-do. Accessed 19 April 2026.

The Associated Press. “Cycling governing body bans female transgender athletes from women's races.” CBC Sports, CBC.ca, 14 July 2023, https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/summer/cycling/cycling-transgender-female-ban-1.6906815.

Webb, Karleigh, et al. “These 29 trans athletes have won major competitions or titles - Outsports.” OutSports, 6 December 2024, https://www.outsports.com/2024/12/6/22948400/transgender-trans-athlete-championship-national-world-title/. Accessed 24 June 2026.

“What are Gonads? Definition, Function, and Types.” biology insights, 22 July 2025, https://biologyinsights.com/what-are-gonads-definition-function-and-types/.

“X and Y Chromosome Variations.” AXYS, Genetic.org, 2026, https://genetic.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AXYS-General-Brochure-Update-5-26.pdf.

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.

Welcome to Part 1 of our trans episodes, we explore the complex science of gender, sex, and biological variations, aiming to demystify trans identities and challenge societal perceptions. Join us for an in-depth discussion on how biology, culture, and identity intersect. This episode explores the complex science behind testosterone levels, gender transition, and athletic performance, highlighting the gaps in current research and the importance of nuanced understanding in sports and gender identity.

 

Show Notes:

Takeaways

- Gender is a spectrum, not a binary.

- Chromosomal variations are common and often undiagnosed.

- Testosterone and estrogen levels influence physical and emotional traits.

- Society's gender roles are performative and culturally constructed.

- Understanding biology helps reduce stigma around trans identities.

- Differences between sex and gender

- Chromosomal variations and their impact

- Hormonal influences on gender expression

- Societal roles and gender performance

- Biological diversity and trans identities Testosterone levels across age and gender

- Impact of puberty blockers on physical development

- Scientific gaps in trans athlete research

- Physical advantages in sports related to biology

- The role of hormone therapy in gender transition

-Legal and ethical considerations in sports

 

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring Femininity and Gender Roles

03:09 Understanding Trans Identity and Gender Definitions

09:17 Navigating Gender Fluidity and Societal Norms

16:40 The Spectrum of Gender Expression

27:09 Cultural Perspectives on Gender

32:05 Chromosomal Variances and Their Implications

40:26 Understanding Testosterone in Women

47:10 The Complexity of Hormonal Testing in Athletes

56:07 The Role of Puberty Blockers in Trans Youth

01:05:42 Navigating Gender Identity and Medical Interventions

01:12:42 The Role of Schools in Supporting Trans Students

01:16:58 The Science of Puberty Blockers and Trans Youth

01:21:27 The Need for Research on Trans Athletes

 

References:

“About — Chris Mosier.” Chris Mosier, https://www.thechrismosier.com/about-1. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Basina, Marina. “What are normal testosterone levels? Ages, males, females, and more.” Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323085#typical-levels. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Batista, Rafael Loch, and et. al. “Androgen insensitivity syndrome: a review - PMC.” PMC, Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 23 March 2018, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10118986/.

“Biological Foundations of Gender: Genes, Hormones, and Behavior.” Biological Foundations of Gender, Gender Studies, 23 September 2025, https://gender.study/?print-my-blog=1&post-type=post&statuses%5B0%5D=publish&rendering_wait=0&columns=1&font_size=normal&image_size=full&links=include&show_site_title=1&show_site_tagline=1&show_site_url=1&show_date_printed=1&show_title=1&show_url=1&show_da.

Daftardar, Ishan. “Scientific Analysis Of Michael Phelps's Body Structure » ScienceABC.” ScienceABC, https://www.scienceabc.com/sports/michael-phelps-height-arms-torso-arm-span-feet-swimming. Accessed 24 June 2026.

“Gender & Athletic Ability: Are Men Really Better Athletes Than Women?” Cathe Friedrich, 23 October 2016, https://cathe.com/gender-athletic-ability-men-really-better-athletes-women/.

Hamilton, Blair, et al. “Strength, power and aerobic capacity of transgender athletes: a cross-sectional study.” Open Access, Br J Sports Med, 2024, https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/bjsports/early/2024/04/10/bjsports-2023-108029.full.pdf.

Hunter, Sandra K., and Jonathon W. Senefeld. “Sex Difference in Human Performance.” The Physiological Society, The Journal of Physiology, 06 August 2024, https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/JP284198.

“International Olympic Committee announces new Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women's) Category in Olympic Sport.” Olympics.com, 26 March 2026, https://www.olympics.com/ioc/news/international-olympic-committee-announces-new-policy-on-the-protection-of-the-female-women-s-category-in-olympic-sport. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Joyner, Michael J., et al. “Evidence on Sex Differences in Sport Performance.” Journal of Applied Physiology, 2025, https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/japplphysiol.00615.2024.

“Lia Thomas.” Wikipedia, wikipedia.org, 17 June 2026, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lia_Thomas.

“Mixed-sex sports.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed-sex_sports. Accessed 24 June 2026.

“Puberty and Transitioning for Trans and Non-Binary Youth.” Kids Help Phone, 18 June 2019, https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/puberty-transitioning-trans-non-binary-youth/.

Ro, Christine. “The sports where women outperform men.” BBC, 1 August 2024, https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240731-the-sports-where-women-outperform-men.

Rohmer, Robert B., and Glynne Walley. “Androgen insensitivity syndrome.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Androgen_insensitivity_syndrome. Accessed 24 June 2026.

Sonksen, Peter H., et al. “Why do endocrine profiles in elite athletes differ between sports?” Springer Nature Link, Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology, 07 February 2018, https://doi.org/10.1186/s40842-017-0050-3.

Soriano, Daniel. “Semenya hurt over IOC's women's category stance.” Inside the Games, 28 March 2026, https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/semenya-voices-hurt-over-coventrys-trans-stance.

Stechyson, Natalie. “She won boxing gold. Now Imane Khelif has filed a harassment complaint over claims she's a man or transgender.” CBC, https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/summer/boxing/boxing-harassment-imane-khelif-1.7292457. Accessed 24 June 2026.

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Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

In this episode, Kori leads the squad as they explore the complex history and social significance of gossip, its evolution from a trusted form of communication to a stigmatized activity, and its potential as a tool for social bonding, protection, and empowerment. Join us as we challenge stereotypes and reclaim gossip as a positive force for community and connection.

 

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- History of gossip from the 16th century to today

- Gossip's role in women's social networks and safety

- The evolution of gossip from a trusted communication to a stigmatized activity

- The use of gossip in social learning, trust, and accountability

- Historical punishments for women accused of gossiping, including public shaming and   violence

- The concept of whisper networks and their role in exposing predators like Harvey Weinstein

- The importance of women’s communication for community building and safety

- Reclaiming gossip as a pro-social, empowering activity

- The influence of media in shaping perceptions of gossip and communication

- The significance of women supporting each other through shared stories and experiences

Chapters

00:00 Gossip and Its Social Implications

03:45 Introduction and Technical Setup

04:11 Understanding Gossip: Modern Perceptions and Stigma

12:30 The Historical Evolution of Gossip

20:10 Gossip as a Tool for Safety and Connection

21:10 The Silencing of Women: Historical Context

27:36 The Impact of Gossip on Women's Lives

31:28 Witch Trials and the Fear of Female Power

37:57 Gossip as a Tool for Connection and Empowerment

38:48 The Whisper Network: A Protective System

41:18 The Impact of Investigative Journalism

43:24 The Disappointment of Fallen Idols

44:27 Ghislaine Maxwell and Gendered Justice

45:01 The Role of Female Spies in History

46:06 Women Talking: A Cinematic Reflection

50:00 The Power of Women’s Conversations

53:20 Reclaiming Gossip as a Positive Force

References:

Dunbar, R. I. M. (2004). Gossip in evolutionary perspective. Review of General Psychology, 8(2), 100–110.

Federici, S. (2018). Witches, witch-hunting, and women. PM Press.

Feinberg, M., Willer, R., & Schultz, M. (2014). Gossip and ostracism promote cooperation in groups. Psychological Science, 25(3), 656–664.

Foster, E. K. (2004). Research on gossip: Taxonomy, methods, and future directions. Review of General Psychology, 8(2), 78–99.

Kantor, J., & Twohey, M. (2019). She said: Breaking the sexual harassment story that helped ignite a movement. Penguin Press.

Robbins, M. L., & Karan, A. (2020). Who gossips and how in everyday life. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 11(3), 397–405.

Toews, M. (2018). Women talking: A novel. Bloomsbury Publishing.

 

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

 

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.