JRE #1039 – Iliza Shlesinger

by

11/14/2017

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This podcast features a candid discussion with Iliza Shlesinger, a talented comedian, host, and writer. They cover a wide range of provocative topics relating to gender dynamics, societal expectations, and the unique pressures women face, spotlighting Shlesinger’s experiences and insights. Here’s a breakdown of the major themes explored during their conversation.

1. Girl Logic vs. Boy Logic

  • Shlesinger discusses the concept of “girl logic,” which she describes as a way of thinking that considers a multitude of societal pressures and expectations.
  • She contrasts this with “boy logic,” explaining how male perspectives tend to lack this complexity.
  • The conversation delves into how women are often dismissed as “crazy” for their thought processes, which are actually rooted in a rich awareness of their environment and expectations.
  • Shlesinger emphasizes the absurdity surrounding the labeling of women, highlighting the need for understanding rather than judgment.

2. Societal Expectations on Women

  • The pressures on women to conform to various roles—mother, partner, professional—are discussed in depth.
  • Shlesinger reflects on the burdens women carry in making decisions that take into account the perceptions of others.
  • There’s an exploration of how societal standards complicate everyday choices, adding layers of anxiety for women.
  • Iliza points out that these expectations can lead to significant emotional distress and confusion.

3. Norms of Modern Gender Relations

  • Discussions about the current views on gender fluidity and how they relate to our understanding of masculinity and femininity.
  • Shlesinger shares intriguing thoughts on the evolving definitions of gender roles and expectations.
  • She poses hypothetical scenarios reflecting on the complexities of identity and the future of gender differentiation.
  • The implication is that society is navigating through an intricate web of gender politics that continues to unfold.

4. Comparisons of Rape Culture and Predation

  • The podcast touches upon the concept of rape culture and its prevalence in various industries, particularly entertainment.
  • Shlesinger reflects on the chilling reality that many women have to manage fears of harassment and assault daily.
  • The discussion acknowledges that these issues affect interpersonal dynamics, relationships, and career progressions.
  • There’s a call for stronger recognition of these issues and a deeper understanding of their roots.

5. Experiences in the Comedy Scene

  • As a prominent female comedian, Shlesinger shares personal anecdotes related to navigating a male-dominated industry.
  • The conversation reveals the added complications female comics face in terms of harassment and validation.
  • Iliza challenges the double standards in comedy, where women are often viewed through a more critical lens than their male counterparts.
  • She encourages solidarity among female comedians to counterbalance the hostility in the scene.

6. The Journey of Parenthood

  • Shlesinger opens up about contemplating motherhood and addressing prenatal expectations.
  • She discusses the societal pressures and confusing messages women receive about having children.
  • The comedy surrounding her experiences as a potential mother connects with the overarching theme of personal identity.
  • There’s an honest exploration of the complexities of balancing career aspirations with family life.

7. Insights into Modern Relationships

  • The podcast discusses evolving romantic dynamics in contemporary relationships.
  • Shlesinger offers a humorous yet honest take on dating culture, particularly regarding expectations of women.
  • The dialogue navigates the challenges of being perceived through a lens of unattainable standards in relationships.
  • Ultimately, the conversation reflects an ongoing exploration of intimacy in modern dating.

8. The Battle with Perceptions of Femininity

  • Shlesinger speaks candidly about the conflicting messages women receive about femininity in modern society.
  • There’s an exploration of how women often strive to be seen as both strong and delicate simultaneously.
  • The conversation reveals the frustration that arises from needing to perform different identities based on social contexts.
  • Ultimately, it’s an appeal for more authenticity in how feminine identity is expressed.

9. Impact of Social Media

  • The role social media plays in shaping perceptions of beauty and success is critically examined.
  • Shlesinger argues that social media can create an unrealistic standard that women feel pressured to meet.
  • The episode discusses how social media can foster unattainable comparisons, leading to body image issues among women.
  • It’s a reminder that visibility in today’s world can foster validation or perpetuate insecurities.

10. The Facade of Masculinity

  • Shlesinger challenges traditional concepts of masculinity and how they contribute to toxic behaviors.
  • She asks whether men can truly tap into emotional vulnerabilities without facing societal backlash.
  • The exploration of masculinity includes an acknowledgment of societal pressures men face to conform.
  • Ultimately, it’s a discussion about the need for vulnerable conversations regarding what it means to be a man.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “Our logic is sort of this circum locution way of thinking that seems insane.” – Shlesinger on women’s thought processes.
  • “If I say pizza, am I doing a diet? Do I have to be in a bathing suit later?” – Speaking on the complexities of everyday decisions for women.
  • “You should be fired from your job for not being funny, not because you didn’t fuck someone.” – On accountability in comedy.
  • “You don’t need to believe it, you just need to do it.” – On societal expectations.
  • “Let’s not pretend I’ve ever stepped onstage without an emotional burden.” – Shlesinger discussing emotional preparation in comedy.

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