Episode #81 - The Crone They Told Us to Fear

For centuries, women have been taught to fear aging. We spend our lives chasing youth, hiding wrinkles, and worrying about becoming invisible. But what if that fear isn't accidental? What if society has spent generations teaching women to distrust older women—and ultimately, to fear becoming one themselves? In this episode, Kat and Jayme explore the Crone archetype, the stereotypes that surround older women, and the stories we've inherited through fairytales, folklore, and popular culture. From the "wicked witch" and the "bitter old hag" to the "crazy cat lady" and the "lonely spinster," why are older women so often portrayed as jealous, dangerous, or irrelevant? Together, we examine how these narratives may have shaped the way women view aging, wisdom, independence, and their own self-worth. We discuss the historical role of wise women, healers, midwives, and witches, and ask an uncomfortable question: Who benefits when women are taught to fear the very stage of life that holds the greatest wisdom and freedom? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation about reclaiming the Crone, honoring the wisdom that comes with age, and discovering the power that emerges when women stop seeking approval and start trusting themselves. Because perhaps the most radical thing an older woman can be is visible, unapologetic, and fully herself.