The Babblery has been official for a year, and that year feels very full. I interviewed women on the topics of science, winemaking, comedy, history, music, art, pregnancy, and writing. I explored how our gender looks through a transgender lens. I spent many hours talking to people, and many more at my computer, cutting and pasting bits of sound together. I did an enormous amount of work for KSQD, which was both in the spirit of giving but also self-serving: I love to learn about new things and each time another programmer asked a question, it was like a portal into another cranny of our fascinating world.
Outside of The Babblery, the state of women’s lives continued its two-steps-forward, one-slide-back rhythm, like hiking up a steep sand dune. It was frustrating how politicians around the world seem to be growing bolder in their attempts to control women’s bodies and expression. But it was heartening how over and over, not only women but a majority of people seem to be pushing back. American culture can be frustratingly pig-headed, resistant to change, and then suddenly it applies its pig-headedness to, for example, telling politicians they can’t legislate people’s medical decisions. So this year was scary, but it was exhilarating. It was frustrating, but each firm step forward was satisfying.
In the new year, I have a few wishes for The Babblery.
First, I want to continue finding new fascinating women’s lives to explore. If you have any suggestions, feel free to email them! We’re thebabblery@gmail.com.
Second, I want to continue to expand The Babblery, and for that, I need help. I am actively searching for partners who want to add their own skills to what I’m doing. Contact me if you think that might be you.
Third, I want to get wider input from people whose experiences touch on my upcoming themes. I can’t tell you how many women have told me, “I don’t think what I have to say is very interesting”—and then they go on to share valuable experiences and insights. Please respond to my calls for input, which you’ll find in my monthly newsletter. Sign up for the newsletter at babblery.com.
Finally, I want to encourage everyone who listens to offer feedback. I really do want to hear your comments: by email, on episode pages, or as reviews on podcast platforms.
Let’s all wish for a better year in 2024, a year in which the human race takes more steps forward, and slides backward not quite as far as last time.
How about Gail Thornton Borkowski? You can find her on KSQD already or see watch her short play “Signing Off” in 8 tens @10 Part 1.
Thanks—great idea!