At Last She Said It

From the time they are young girls, Latter-day Saint women hear a great deal of emphasis placed on motherhood being central to their divine role. Yet there are so many variables that often go unacknowledged in the conversation—desire, opportunity, aptitude, health, finances, to name a few—that truly complicate this general teaching for specific women. In this episode, Cynthia and Susan discuss the ways motherhood adds real and ongoing complexity to their lives, choices, and feelings.

Cynthia and Susan are joined by their friend Holly to discuss the biggest elephant in the room. In what ways might polygamy—past, present, and/or future—affect the lives of Latter-day Saint women today?

Cynthia and Susan discuss the complexities of modesty in the Latter-day Saint community, addressing gender biases in dress codes and the repressive impact of strict clothing standards on women. They explore the evolution of modesty norms, advocate for bodily autonomy, and emphasize empowering daughters beyond appearance standards.

Dr. Julie Hanks joins Cynthia and Susan to discuss personal authority vs. general authority in LDS women's lives. They explore self-care, navigating societal expectations, embracing personal revelation, making choices, and prioritizing love over perfection.

In the first episode of Season 2, Cynthia and Susan consider some of the burdens women carry—in their hearts, their minds, and their bodies—and discuss Mary, the mother of Jesus. She bore an unimaginable weight, but about her remarkable personal journey we have only a few precious clues.

Jeralee is joined by dear friend Carol Lynn Pearson for a poetry reading and exploration of her new collection, Finding Mother God.

In this bonus episode, Cynthia traces some of the growth she has experienced as a result of periods of sustained grieving. Looking back now, she can see how grief turned out to be a teacher she never wanted, and never knew she needed.

Exploring complex emotions towards patriarchy, family influences, and gender dynamics within the Mormon community. Reflecting on gender disparities in religious practices and navigating patriarchal systems as a young woman.

In this bonus episode, Cynthia and Susan wrap up the first season with a top ten list, some listener feedback, and a season two teaser: a call for women to contribute their stories and experiences on upcoming topics.

Cynthia and Susan are joined by Jeralee for a discussion of agency. If we believe it's a foundational component of the plan, why is it sometimes so hard to honor? Can shifting our thinking about agency improve the way we make decisions for ourselves, and help us better love and support others in their choices?