Not a Purse!

After many heartfelt conversations and countless shared stories, Jo and Larissa wrap up this chapter of Not a Purse! with love and gratitude. In this final episode, they look back on how it all started, what the podcast has meant to them, and the unexpected ways it shaped their journey. It's a celebration of growth, connection, and daring to speak about the things that are often left unsaid. Thank you for being part of this beautiful experiment in honesty and community. This isn't goodbye—just see you later.

In this honest and grounding episode, Larissa and Jo sit down with Kieran, a grief and trauma coach, to talk about the realities of child loss—a topic so often wrapped in silence. From the heartbreak of losing her firstborn to the everyday work of weaving his memory into family life, Kieran shares her story with deep vulnerability. Together, they explore the isolation of grief, the discomfort around pregnancy loss, and the unspoken belief that babies aren’t supposed to die. They also discuss how to talk about loss—with children, partners, and community—and the power of support, advocacy, and honest conversation in healing. Kieran, who lovingly calls herself a "walking trigger warning" offers a courageous, compassionate invitation into grief, memory, and connection.To learn more about Kieran’s work, visit www.becoln.com.

In this raw and heartfelt episode, Larissa and Jo sit down with Annalisa to talk about the postpartum experience and the multifaceted journey of early parenthood. Together, they peel back the layers of expectation, exhaustion, and transformation that often go unspoken. From birth recovery and shifting identities to the emotional rollercoaster of caring for a newborn, Annalisa shares her personal story with honesty and vulnerability. The trio dives into the mental and physical realities of life after birth, including the moments that are beautiful, the ones that are brutal, and everything in between. This episode is a reminder that you're not alone—and that sharing the hard parts matters just as much as celebrating the good. Tune in for an open, grounding, and deeply human conversation on postpartum and parenthood.

Why do we learn so little about periods beyond reproduction? In this episode, Larissa and Jo sit down with Rhiana and Vanessa to unpack the gaps in sex education and the societal norms that fail to accommodate the hormonal cycle. They share first period stories, reflect on the ways menstrual health is typically overlooked, and challenge the widely accepted world structures centered around male biology. From migraines and nausea to constipation and mood swings muscle soreness, they shed light on the often-ignored symptoms that come with menstruation. They explore how breaking the silence with peers and listening to our bodies can make all the difference. Tune in for an honest, insightful, and empowering discussion on periods, friendship, and rewriting the narrative.

In this thought-provoking episode, Larissa and Jo sit down with PhD student in global health, Landry Kalembo, to unravel the complexities of touch as a basic human need. Why is physical contact widely encouraged for newborns but increasingly restricted as we age? Together, they discuss the undeniable benefits of touch and examine the cultural, social, and environmental factors that shape our comfort with physical connection. They question the origins of these taboos and explore how ethnocentrism influences our perceptions. Could greater awareness be the key to breaking down these invisible barriers? Tune in for a compelling conversation that challenges the way we think about human connection.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa delve into the fascinating and mysterious practices of Gukuna and Kunyaza in Rwandan culture, uncovering their true meaning beyond Western misconceptions. They also explore the Kama Sutra as more than a guide to intimacy—showing how it embraces a holistic approach to love and life. Inspired by works like "L'eau sacrée" and "Zirara Zubakwa," they discuss the powerful shift in viewing sexual pleasure apart from love and examine how early exploration and education can help break down cultural taboos. From societal expectations to attitudes around adultery, they challenge the conventions and encourage listeners to rethink pleasure without stigma. This episode is a multicultural journey into pleasure as a natural, celebrated part of our lives and traditions.

In this riveting episode, Larissa and Jo are joined by sex educator Rae to tackle the evolving landscape of sex education head-on. From dismantling stigma around STIs to exploring relationship fluidity and kink, they leave no taboo unturned. Rae shares invaluable perspectives on sex and relationships from her many years of educating youth and adults on the topic. Together, they challenge traditional norms, advocate for inclusive language, and emphasize the vital role of consent and communication in healthy relationships. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that looks to revolutionize how we approach modern sex education. Resources: https://www.sieccan.org/ https://www.scarleteen.com/ https://www.joinonelove.org/

In this episode, Jo and Larissa are joined by guests Agnes and Guiomar to uncover the often-hidden aspects of menopause. They share heartfelt recommendations and resources to help navigate this life stage, while highlighting the positive changes menopause can bring. They also delve into how capitalism shapes the medical industry and its impact on women's health. Agnes and Guiomar emphasize the importance of intersectionality, ensuring every woman's experience is acknowledged and validated. Tune in for a down-to-earth conversation that aims to empower and support you, regardless of whether you have had the experience (or will or won't!) of menopause.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa tackle the fascinating topic of male contraception, starting with the history of condoms and their cultural significance across the globe. They explore why condoms became a staple during the HIV pandemic and discuss the ongoing need for more non-hormonal methods of contraception. The conversation also delves into what male contraception could learn from female contraception options, while addressing the trust issues and challenges that come with introducing new contraceptives. With society increasingly expressing a desire for male contraception, this episode sheds light on the evolving landscape of reproductive health for men.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa are joined by Frances for a candid conversation about early sexual exploration and pleasure. They discuss the importance of social acceptance and openness around masturbation, sharing personal experiences and reflections on parental guidance. They also explore children's natural curiosity and the need to create safe spaces for these inevitable discussions to occur. Frances reveals the lifelong impact of early sexual exploration, emphasizing the ongoing parental support and encouragement of early education. The trio also explores parents' concerns and the critical need for certain conditions to be present in order to create safe and enjoyable sexual experiences for all. Tune in for an open discussion that highlights the need for continued dialogue and flexibility.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa dive deep into the murky concept of pleasure. They explore the intricate relationship between pleasure and emotions, discussing why sexual pleasure remains a taboo subject in society. The conversation touches on the intensity of pleasure and draws fascinating parallels between the experiences of sex and dance. The co-hosts also tackle the challenge of societal norms, highlighting the lack of vocabulary we have for discussing pleasure and the tendency to focus on negative experiences instead. They make a strong case for the importance of cultivating a culture where pleasure is openly discussed and normalized.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa welcome new guest Julia to discuss the unexpected power of the fertility awareness method. Julia introduces the benefits of tracking your cycle that go beyond contraception, highlighting how observing hormonal effects on mood and feelings can enhance self-awareness. The conversation delves into the shared responsibility of natural contraception, fostering intimacy and partnership. Together, the co-hosts and Julia also explore how integrating the menstrual cycle into daily life can lead to a more holistic and empowered approach to health and to life. Tune in for a grounded dialogue that redefines society's relationship with women's reproductive system.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa sit down with Julz to delve into her deeply personal and insightful journey through ovarian cancer and menopause. Julz shares her experiences with diagnosis and surgeries, shedding light on the physical and emotional challenges she faced afterward. The conversation covers the importance of comprehensive support and resources for menopause, as well as the societal expectations and relationship dynamics that come into play. Julz's story highlights the need for greater awareness and acceptance of the changes in women's bodies, addressing issues like depression, burnout, and the long-lasting symptoms of menopause that often remain invisible in society. Tune in to hear an inspiring discussion that underscores the resilience and strength required to navigate these significant life transitions.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa are joined by brand-new guest Jillian and Not a Purse veteran Elvis as they tackle the complex and often controversial topic of pornography. Together, they question society’s attitudes and the stigmatization surrounding porn. They also discuss the role of porn in sexual education and how it shapes everyday perceptions and expectations of sex. The conversation delves into the importance of open and honest discussions about sexuality and the potential of porn to bridge gaps in sexual experiences. The cohosts, along with their guests, explore the influence of societal norms, the role of platforms in porn consumption, and the diverse preferences people have. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that challenges preconceived notions and promotes a deeper reflection of pornography's impact.

In this episode, Jo and Larissa dive into the fascinating world of sex toys, exploring their ultimate purpose in society and the often-taboo nature surrounding them. From the first vibrator and its connection to hysteria to the advancements in sex toy technology today, the conversation highlights how sex toys have evolved, particularly in catering to women's pleasure and their significant role in our lives. Jo and Larissa also discuss the differences in sex toys designed for men and women, societal perceptions, and the emotional connections formed with sex dolls. Tune in for a dynamic discussion that celebrates the value of pleasure for all.

In the Season 2 finale, Larissa and Jo - with a blend of humour - unravel the linguistic tapestry woven around menstruation. From "Aunt Flow" to "Strawberryweek" and beyond, the hosts explore the colourful array of euphemisms used across cultures and languages to describe this natural bodily function. They delve into how these euphemisms influence societal perceptions and attitudes towards menstruation. Join them for a witty and insightful discussion on the power of words and their impact on both our understanding of menstruation and the infrastructure and support systems in place (or not!) for menstruating individuals.

In this episode, Larissa & Jo are taking another look at the world of parenting. In a candid discussion with Miro -a father of two girls and one boy- they explore the intricate dynamics of virginity. Delving into societal expectations surrounding first sexual experiences, the hosts unravel the shaping of girls' outlooks and the prevailing double standards for boys/men and girls/women. The episode probes the paradoxical desires for both experience and limited history in a female partner, shedding light on societal pressures that turn intimacy into a competitive arena.

Larissa and Jo embark on an insightful journey with guest Steph, a dancer, science lover, and mother of a 13-year-old boy. Together, the trio unravels the diverse cultural and generational perspectives on taboo genitalia topics. From nudity acceptance to body positivity, period management myths and challenges, and the global lack of awareness, they confront the subtleties of these conversations.

In this heartwarming episode, Larissa and Jo welcome a special guest, Sarah, a mother of three. Sarah shares her experiences and challenges in raising children to have a healthy relationship with their bodies. As they discuss the delicate balance between openness about nudity and adhering to societal norms, the hosts and their guest delve into the intricate web of boundaries. They explore some factors that shape these boundaries, the influence of context on the appropriateness of nudity, and why we hold certain beliefs about nudity.

In this out-of-the-ordinary episode, Larissa & Jo step into the realm of vulnerability. Welcoming the insightful Ji as their guest, the trio delves deep into the intricacies of open and honest conversations. Sharing personal experiences, they highlight the transformative power of 'being seen' and 'seeing others' in fostering genuine connections. Ji, with his magic touch for creating a safe space, enriches the discussion with unique insights on how to encourage openness and authenticity in dialogue.

Larissa and Jo tackle the often silenced and weighty topic of sexual assault in this episode. They delve into how language, through terms like 'date rape' and 'marital rape,' can soften the gravity of these acts. The hosts shed light on unsettling truths about sexual assault, including how much more prevalent it is than commonly believed, underscoring the importance of open discussions to dismantle the obstacles to awareness. Drawing parallels to other activist movements, they examine how societal awakening could help reveal the harsh reality of sexual assault and lead to change.

In this episode, hosts Larissa & Jo, along with Kizomba and Urban Kiz instructor Elvis and fellow dancer Guy-Thierry, delve into the transformative realm of partner dance and its influence on body perception. From the art of interpretation to navigating involuntary erections on the dance floor, the hosts and their guests share personal stories and practical tips for impromptu situations. Dive into discussions on the delicate balance between safety and freedom, the desire for genuine physical intimacy, and the intriguing journey of bringing dance's emotional depth into the real world.

Join Larissa and Jo in an unexpected conversation that challenges the way we perceive and sexualize certain body parts. In this episode, the hosts delve into the concept of a "sexualized body part" and how everyday actions can give certain body parts a special status. They explore society's multifaceted perception of breasts and, through their engaging discussion, come to a realization about the power of physical touch and intimacy in reshaping our perspective.

In this episode, Larissa and Jo, accompanied by first-time guest Pascal, embark on a deep and insightful journey into the world of circumcisions. Together, they unravel the layers surrounding this practice, exploring its essence, the myriad of reasons behind its performance, and the profound consequences it can have. As they delve into the topic, the trio seeks to unveil the lesser-known facets of circumcision, bringing to light the often-overlooked details and complexities. Inspired by the documentary "American Circumcision", the hosts and their guest exchange newfound information while advocating for the democratization of knowledge related to circumcision.

In this season's inaugural episode, Larissa and Jo uncover lesser-known facts about the contraceptive pill, drawing inspiration from the thought-provoking documentary, "The Business of Birth Control." From the surprising secrets being withheld from the general public to the dangerous downplaying of risks associated with the pill as we know it, this season of Not a Purse! Podcast begins with an explosive (if somewhat frustrating) exploration. As always, the hosts advocate for transparency, emphasizing the importance of accessible information to empower individuals in making informed choices about their reproductive health.

In the Season 1 finale of "Not a Purse!", Larissa and Jo kick back for a relaxed chat delving into the fascinating world of euphemisms for genitalia. They explore how these quirky terms find their way into our conversations, impacting our self-perception since childhood. Taking a unique linguistic journey, the hosts unearth the origins of the Latin words "vagina" and "gladius," shedding light on their original meanings. This sets the stage for a thoughtful discussion on reclaiming words such as "cunt" and "pussy." Speaking of which, here's a recommended read for you: "Pussy: A Reclamation" by Regena Thomashauer. For the French speakers among you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcW4RfhbM88

In this episode, Larissa and Jo take a deep dive into the world of children's toys. Reflecting on their own childhood experiences, the hosts shed light on the perplexing absence of genitalia representation in dolls. By closely examining the iconic figures of Barbie and Ken, Larissa and Jo offer insights grounded in their unique (non-parent) perspectives. As they navigate the evolving designs of LOL dolls, Larissa and Jo not only delve into parental reactions but also ignite a much-needed conversation about the profound impact of toy choices on shaping children's perceptions and understanding.

Join Larissa and Jo in this thought-provoking episode, where they dive into the intriguing world of virginity. Together, they embark on an eye-opening journey, discussing their personal experiences and evolving perspectives on virginity, shaped by the powerful influences of mainstream media and peers during their formative years. They explore the concept of virginity and the profound impact it has on individuals' lives and relationships, the intricate relationship between virginity, purity, and sex, and the mysterious hymen and its biological (and societal) purpose, all while dismantling the myths that have surrounded these concepts. Bonus: In this episode, the hosts discuss an inspiring and informative Virginity TED Talk by two accomplished Norwegian OBGYNs, providing fresh perspectives on this multifaceted topic. Tune in and gain insights from the TED Talk available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBQnQTkhsq4, and follow @brochmanndahl for more.

In this episode, Larissa and Jo engage in a discussion about discharge, delving into their personal thoughts and experiences. They confront the stigma and misconceptions often associated with this natural bodily function. Exploring the differences between cervical mucus and vaginal discharge, the hosts uncover their respective purposes and reflect on how this newfound understanding has impacted their lives. Additionally, they acknowledge the invaluable knowledge shared by a traditional birth attendant, whose expertise on the female body enhanced their awareness. Here is a link to her website: https://www.qioflifebirthkeeper.com/

Join Larissa and Jo as they dive into the world of penises. In this episode, the hosts share personal stories about their journey of understanding "showers" versus "growers" and the surprising realization that erections are not always voluntary. With refreshing honesty and humility, they acknowledge their biases as women discussing the intricacies of a male body part while offering a lighthearted and inclusive perspective.

Join Larissa and Jo in this episode as they explore vulva anatomy and societal expectations. They delve into the myths surrounding the "ideal" looking vulva and the elusive concept of what is "normal". How do we know what the perfect vulva looks like? Are there specific criteria that define what a vulva *should* look like? Or are these expectations merely constructs of society? Larissa and Jo unravel the stories behind these expectations, challenge misconceptions, and celebrate the beauty of vulva diversity. Be prepared for a discussion that questions the existence of the "normal" vulva and invites you to embrace authenticity and self-acceptance. Here is a link to a resource that shares diverse vulvas (explicit content): https://www.thegreatwallofvulva.com/vulva-photos/

In this episode, Larissa and Jo open up about their personal journeys with menstruation. From navigating the challenges of managing periods while attending school, university, and eventually entering the workforce, Larissa and Jo explore the profound impact of society's unpreparedness for menstruation on the lives of women. With thought-provoking discussions and shared experiences, this episode offers an exploration of the ways in which having a period shapes women's lives in a society that seems to overlook the unique challenges they face. Tune in for an honest conversation on the journey through womanhood in a world still learning to embrace the beauty of menstruation.

Join Larissa and Jo on a trip down memory lane as they explore the changing dynamics of nudity in their lives, from childhood to adulthood. This episode examines how societal norms and cultural attitudes shape our relationship with nudity and self-image, revealing intriguing personal insights. The hosts discuss culturally significant experiences, recalling doctor visits and sauna trips, and how these influenced their body image. Through candid conversations and personal anecdotes, Larissa and Jo create an open space for listeners to reflect on their own experiences with nudity and body image.

In the second episode of "Not a Purse!", hosts Larissa and Jo continue their fearless journey to break down barriers surrounding genitalia talk. Join them as they dive deep into the crucial topic of self-exploration. With their signature humor and honesty, they explore why it's important to break down the stigma around exploring one's body and share personal anecdotes about their own journeys of self-discovery. They encourage listeners to embrace their bodies and make getting acquainted with their genitalia a priority. Tune in and join the movement!

In the debut episode of "Not a Purse!", hosts Joana and Larissa introduce themselves and share their motivation behind the podcast's mission to break the taboo around genitalia talk. Beyond being the voices behind the mic, they delve into their personal lives and interests to provide a more intimate look at the people behind the project.