The hottest Women Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Facing the truth, and what comes after

Disaffected Newsletter • 1159 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Sometimes, we realize things about people we never noticed before. This can lead to uncomfortable truths about our relationships.
  2. People often look up to celebrities who remind them of their own life struggles, using them as symbols of their hopes or fears.
  3. Movies like _Mildred Pierce_ explore complex family dynamics and the pain of becoming like someone we fear or dislike.

Greening the Hag

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 2116 implied HN points • 09 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. The Cailleach from Scottish and Irish folklore represents an archetype with profound teachings about connection to the land and aspects of aging.
  2. Older women in ancient stories like the Cailleach have an important role as guardians and protectors of the land, offering valuable lessons for contemporary society.
  3. Exploring folklore about the Cailleach as an ecofeminist figure can provide insight into the depth and richness of ancestral traditions surrounding giant old women in Europe.

The coolest medieval woman you've never heard of

weird medieval guys • 1926 implied HN points • 06 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Christine de Pizan was one of Europe's first professional female writers and a French nationalist.
  2. Her most famous work, _The Book of the City of Ladies_, is considered one of the earliest feminist writings.
  3. _The Book of the City of Ladies_ critiques misogyny, redefines female characters from history, and calls for gender equality.

Conversations with women (over 40): Barbara Kingsolver

The Shift With Sam Baker • 1577 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. The conversations with women over 40 cover a wide range of topics from personal experiences to professional achievements, offering insights and perspectives from diverse backgrounds.
  2. Barbara Kingsolver shares her journey of self-discovery and empowerment, reflecting on overcoming challenges, finding courage to be authentic, and embracing wisdom that comes with age.
  3. Through her experiences with strong female role models like her literary agent and mother-in-law, Kingsolver highlights the importance of supportive relationships and the impact they can have on personal growth and success.
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What's got my attention this week #31

The Shift With Sam Baker • 698 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Sam Baker's newsletter highlights articles about powerful women over 50, personal style, and the legacy of Kids Company founder Camila Batmanghelidjh.
  2. The newsletter features thought-provoking pieces on the concept of home and age-gap relationships.
  3. To access the full content and weekly essays, becoming a paid subscriber is suggested.

Is it a podcast? Is it a newsletter? Is it a community?

The Shift With Sam Baker • 1098 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
🎙 Podcasts Women
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker is a multi-faceted platform including a podcast, newsletter, and community where women in midlife share experiences and wisdom.
  2. The platform emphasizes the importance of providing a safe space to discuss topics that matter like aging, feminism, books, and societal expectations.
  3. Sam Baker's journey from launching a podcast on midlife experiences to growing a substantial following highlights the power of podcasts and newsletters in today's media landscape.

Was She the Greatest Kingmaker of the 20th Century?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 561 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Pamela Harriman was a key figure in 20th-century politics, known for using her charm and connections to influence important leaders.
  2. She married into the Churchill family and had an eventful life, including a troubled marriage and later becoming influential in U.S. politics.
  3. Her story highlights how personal relationships can play a huge role in shaping political power dynamics.

The books that moved me in 2023

The Shift With Sam Baker • 758 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
📚 Literature Women
  1. The article discusses the author's favorite books of the year, focusing on ones that left a lasting impact on them emotionally.
  2. The books mentioned cover a range of topics, from a unique perspective on history to candid memoirs, and thrilling fiction with humor and rage.
  3. The author reflects on the importance of books that evoke strong emotions and provoke new thoughts, highlighting the power of storytelling.

Leadership secrets of Attila the Nun

steveinskeep • 353 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
📚 Literature Women
  1. A novel tells the story of a medieval woman's rise to power in a feminist abbey.
  2. The book explores themes like human nature, faith, and power through a historical feminist lens.
  3. The main character, Marie, showcases how power dynamics shift within organizations over time.

This Week In Women And Luxury

The Real Sarah Miller • 511 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Women
  1. The post discusses a conversation about luxury shopping, mentioning a friend who bought an expensive coat.
  2. The writing reflects on past experiences of exchanging written work for money.
  3. The author expresses admiration for a friend who paid a high sum for an 800-word story.

Podcast: The Hagitude Sessions are now available

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 1118 implied HN points • 15 Aug 22
🎙 Podcasts Women
  1. A series of special podcast episodes called 'The Hagitude Sessions' are now available on 'This Mythic Life' podcast, discussing experiences of women in the second half of their lives.
  2. The first guest on the podcast is writer Tanya Shadrick, known for her inspiring work and transformative life journey.
  3. Listeners can subscribe to the podcast on various platforms like SoundCloud, iTunes, Stitcher, and TuneIn to receive new episodes automatically.

Five... London Statues of Extraordinary Women

Londonist: Time Machine • 139 implied HN points • 24 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Women
  1. The post discusses five London statues of extraordinary women who have significantly contributed to shaping the city's history.
  2. The importance of recognizing and commemorating women in public statues, considering the historical disparity in representation compared to men.
  3. Women's History Month serves as a reminder to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women who have made a difference.

Feel like your wardrobe hates you?

The Shift With Sam Baker • 379 implied HN points • 13 Jul 23
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Women
  1. Menopause and perimenopause are being openly discussed now more than before, helping women seek information and support for symptoms and hormonal changes.
  2. Despite the challenges of menopause, with physical changes like weight and metabolism shifts, and mental changes like anxiety, it is essential to remember that you are not alone.
  3. As women navigate dressing during menopause, where bodies change unpredictably, it's important to seek ways to adapt and feel comfortable in their skin.

Sports New Zealand is kicking women into touch again. It's getting to be a habit.

A B’Old Woman • 519 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🎾 Sports Women
  1. Women have fought hard for the rights to participate in sports, but now there are concerns about fairness when men claim to be women and join women's sports.
  2. Some believe that men maintain a physical advantage over women, even after lowering their testosterone levels, which raises safety and fairness issues in competitions.
  3. Policies that allow men in women's sports are seen by some as disrespectful to women and their achievements, prompting calls for clearer rules that protect women's categories.

10 books of women's awakenings: nonfiction

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 758 implied HN points • 24 May 22
📚 Literature Women
  1. Reading books that showcase women breaking boundaries and embracing change can inspire personal growth and empowerment.
  2. Exploring nonfiction literature can provide insights into hidden societal norms that suppress women, prompting reflection and action for change.
  3. Books that focus on feminist ecology and the connection between women and nature can foster a deeper understanding of strength and interconnectedness.

Confessions of a Serial Monogamist

The Reclamation Era • 19 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Being in a long-term relationship can make it hard to understand dating after a breakup. It's okay to feel confused about starting over.
  2. Dating apps are often seen as intimidating, especially for those who haven't used them before. Many people prefer real connections instead of casual dating.
  3. Being a serial monogamist—someone who is often in relationships—can bring up feelings of uncertainty and self-reflection after a divorce. It's normal to question past patterns in relationships.

#143: When self-awareness eats its own tail

Maybe Baby • 1387 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. When dealing with annoying friends, try to see the positive side of their traits.
  2. The concept of 'aging gracefully' can be restrictive and focused on appearance.
  3. Excessive self-awareness can sometimes be counterproductive and hinder decision-making.

The United States has many political prisoners. Here’s a list

Geopolitical Economy Report • 458 implied HN points • 10 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Women
  1. The United States government has a history of using incarceration as a tool to suppress dissent and advance the interests of economic elites.
  2. The list of political prisoners in the United States includes national security whistleblowers, foreign diplomats, activists, and revolutionaries fighting against national oppression.
  3. There are also political prisoners who never received fair trials, including many non-white individuals, and those who have been targeted for their environmental, anti-war, or anti-patriarchal activism.

Funny Girls

The Reclamation Era • 19 implied HN points • 17 Jun 24
😂 Humor Women
  1. Women in comedy benefit from supporting each other and building a positive community. When women collaborate, they can create a more inclusive and encouraging environment.
  2. The Boulder Comedy Festival highlights diversity and women's voices in stand-up. It aims to change the male-dominated landscape by showcasing a variety of talented comedians.
  3. There are still challenges, like sexism and discrimination, in the comedy industry. But by working together and focusing on positivity, women can overcome these obstacles and succeed.

The Queen of Rock & Roll

The Better Letter • 137 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🎶 Music Women
  1. Remembering the legendary Tina Turner, known as the Queen of Rock & Roll.
  2. Diversity and inclusion are crucial in all aspects of society, including music history.
  3. Freedom of expression, questioning the norm, and embracing diversity are essential values to uphold.

She Drove The Tube Train 100 Years Ago: How a Woman Launched a Rebuilt Northern Line

Londonist: Time Machine • 99 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
💾 History Women
  1. The Bank branch of the Northern line was rebuilt in 1923, including widening the tunnels, in a remarkable engineering feat.
  2. The reconstruction involved meticulous planning and a terrifying explosion, highlighting the challenges faced during the project.
  3. Despite the significant efforts and historical importance of the project, this story is often overlooked and forgotten in history.

Women in Space: #EmbraceEquity

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🔬 Science Women
  1. Women make up only about 20-22% of the space industry workforce, and only 12% of all astronauts have been women. We need to work together to change this.
  2. Successful women in space and tech inspire others to join the field. Recognizing their achievements can encourage girls to explore careers in these areas.
  3. Organizations are helping to support women in space careers, showing that having more diverse voices leads to better innovation and exploration in the industry.

This is what a grandma looks like

The Shift With Sam Baker • 199 implied HN points • 08 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Ageing is a natural process that can bring different perspectives at various stages of life.
  2. Becoming a grandma can evoke complex emotions and societal perceptions.
  3. Grandmothers today break stereotypes by being diverse, active, and defying traditional expectations.

Queen of the Castle

The Reclamation Era • 59 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Embracing the 'queen archetype' represents a powerful phase for women in midlife, encouraging autonomy and self-empowerment. It's a time to recognize one's strength and wisdom.
  2. The transition from the traditional phases of womanhood—maiden, mother, crone—adds a new title: the 'queen', signifying a vibrant and active role during this life stage.
  3. Choosing a personal word for the year, like 'sovereignty', helps set intentions to reclaim one's life and prioritize personal voice and authority in decision-making.

A definitive catalogue of modern rom-coms

Teniade Topics • 98 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Rom-coms have evolved over the years, ranging from cozy and deeply melancholy to more sophisticated and grown-up vibes.
  2. Actresses like Julia Roberts brought a flirtatious and sexy twist to rom-coms, subverting traditional genre norms.
  3. Different eras in rom-coms, from the '90s to the present, showcase the evolving styles and themes of these movies.

Bike Around the World!

The Analog Family • 119 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. The Ladies' Bike Around the World event is a fun gathering where friends ride bikes and celebrate different cultures through food and drinks at various stops. It's a unique way to socialize and enjoy each other's company.
  2. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity, expanding from just four friends to thirty participants. This growth shows how much people love creative and engaging events.
  3. The day is not just about biking; it's a chance for women to take a break from their daily roles and enjoy some carefree time together. It feels refreshing and brings a sense of fun and camaraderie.

WNBA Players Want More Money...But It's More Complicated Than That

Huddle Up • 37 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
🎾 Sports Women
  1. WNBA players are asking for $1 million salaries, but the league claims it doesn't have enough money to pay that. There's a complicated situation with money distribution and ownership stakes.
  2. The WNBA is experiencing growth with increased attendance and a big media rights deal coming up. However, the excitement was overshadowed by a protest from players during a recent event.
  3. The current Collective Bargaining Agreement talks are essential for the future of the WNBA. Players are pushing for better pay and conditions, which could shape the league's next chapter.

Gen X Women: The Forgotten Barbie Movie Audience

The Reclamation Era • 79 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Gen X women are often overlooked, especially regarding popular culture like movies. Many believe that younger generations are the main audiences, but Gen X has significant feelings about these films too.
  2. Watching the Barbie movie brought a mix of laughter and emotions for Gen X women. They connected deeply with its themes, relating to their own experiences as moms and through midlife challenges.
  3. The movie resonates with older women who feel seen and heard, emphasizing the importance of their perspectives. Their reactions show that they have rich stories and feelings that matter, even if they're not always highlighted.

Leave #WestElmCaleb Alone

Ladyparts • 279 implied HN points • 22 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. The author is urging Zoomers to focus on bigger issues instead of criticizing a particular individual's behavior.
  2. The author, being a Gen-X individual and a mother of a 20-something, empathizes with Zoomers' struggles with modern dating.
  3. The post encourages readers to subscribe to Ladyparts for more content and a 7-day free trial.

Do WNBA Players Really Want to Be Paid What They Are Owed?

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 24 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🎾 Sports Women
  1. WNBA players are pushing for better pay, claiming they deserve a fair share of the league's revenues, like their male counterparts in the NBA. However, the financial situation of the WNBA is complicated, as the league often operates at a loss.
  2. The WNBA has seen growth and interest, particularly with players like Caitlin Clark, but the overall revenue and profitability of the league remain low compared to the NBA. This affects players' salaries and how much they can realistically demand.
  3. Critics argue that despite the players' demands for higher wages, the underlying financial issues in the WNBA make it difficult for the league to meet these expectations without further losses.

Is It Progressive to Have Female Characters Be Grouchy Assholes?

I Might Be Wrong • 17 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Creating female characters who are just tough and aggressive may not be the best approach. It's important for characters to show positive traits and empathy too.
  2. The idea that women can also be unlikable and aggressive is gaining popularity, but these traits are not admirable in anyone, male or female.
  3. Strong female characters should have a balance of toughness and other qualities, instead of just being one-dimensional portrayals that mirror toxic behaviors.

#BreaktheBias in AI & Analytics

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 19 implied HN points • 13 Mar 22
🕹 Technology Women
  1. There's a growing need to talk about gender equality in AI and analytics. It's important for everyone to join the conversation.
  2. Women and girls in science and technology bring a lot of benefits. Their contributions can help us make more progress in these fields.
  3. Discussing topics like the gender pay gap and biases is crucial. These issues need attention to create a fairer workplace for all.

You Don't Understand The Oscars

Inland Nobody • 0 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Oscars are industry awards decided by filmmakers for filmmakers.
  2. Tension exists between popular movies and Oscar winners due to differences in preferences.
  3. Everyone seeks validation in art, but Oscars are subjective and determined by a unique group of voters.

Has Hollywood finally realised women don't vanish at 40?

The Shift With Sam Baker • 0 implied HN points • 12 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Women
  1. Hollywood seems to be acknowledging the presence and talent of women over 40, with three women over 60 winning a Golden Globe recently.
  2. The representation of women in midlife and beyond in the media has historically been lacking, but there are hopes for positive change.
  3. Visibility and diversity in media are essential, and the recognition of older women in the industry is a step in the right direction.