Common Sense Media Review
By Lakshmi Hutchinson
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Explores how labels impact women; some mature topics.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Listen
What's It About?
Meghan Markle's ARCHETYPES podcast investigates common stereotypes and labels ("diva," "bimbo," "angry Black woman") that hold women back. Each episode addresses one of these labels as Meghan is joined by one or more guests who have in some way dealt with the label being discussed. A conversation with Serena Williams explores how ambition is often seen as a negative trait in a woman — particularly Black women — in our society. Meghan also includes some of the history behind the archetypes and features historians and academics as contributors. In one episode we hear from an expert on how the "angry Black woman" myth is rooted in slavery, in another we learn about the frequent medical gaslighting of women. The tone of the podcast is conversational and guests sometimes open up about personal trauma. Meghan reminds listeners that we never know what someone is struggling with silently and how important it is to be empathetic and supportive.
Is It Any Good?
This is a thoughtful and insightful podcast. Meghan speaks in a welcoming and calm voice, giving Archetypes a conversational tone. She weaves the theme of archetypes into her interviews with guests, exploring together the ways in which women have defied or subverted labels. Comedian and actress Ziwe discusses the ways in which she's crafted her character to be in direct opposition to what traditional society expects from a woman, while Mariah Carey shares how she's played into the diva stereotype and had fun with it.
One of the strengths of the show is that it demonstrates how we don't always know what people are going through behind the scenes. Hearing women open up about their journeys, setbacks and triumphs — all while navigating society's assumptions and expectations — adds a depth that makes Archetypes more than just another celebrity podcast.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Archetypes examines how female creators in Hollywood (particularly women of color) often have to push back against stereotypical representation and expectations. What are some common stereotypes you see or hear in media? Why are stereotypes harmful?
Do you think it's hard for someone to break free of a label like "diva" or "crazy" once it's been placed on them in the media? Why or why not? Why do the words used in media matter?
Do you think that shows with Black casts and creators are expected to be exclusively about certain issues? Do you see that changing?
This show promotes compassion, empathy, and perseverance. Why are these important character strengths?
Podcast Details
- Release date : August 23, 2022
- Genre : Entertainment
- Run time : 55 minutes
- Website : https://archewell.com/audio/archetypes/
- Host : Meghan Markle
- Production Company and Network : Archewell Audio
- Pricing structure : Free
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Empathy , Perseverance
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : June 13, 2023
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