CHARLOTTE JANSEN
Listening to one another has provided instant connection in changeable times as Charlotte Jansen, British Sri Lankan journalist, editor, author and host of Dior Talks, Dior’s podcast on the female gaze, knows. The art and culture writer shares her pick of podcasts worth listening to, all telling women’s stories that have impacted on her.
1. DIOR TALKS, THE FEMALE GAZE: MARIA GRAZIA CHIURI
“I’ve learnt so much recording this podcast series on the female gaze for Dior – I’ve had the privilege of speaking to so many incredible women photographers about their careers and their personal journeys and about the power of photographs in the world. Photography affects women in a particular way – and Maria Grazia Chiuri understands this very well. Many people might not know that in 2016, when she was appointed creative director at Dior, she announced she would only be working with women photographers. That is major. This whole series is really down to her acuity – this conversation with her kicks off this series on the female gaze and her vision as a feminist. I love it too because you can hear how incredibly warm and humble she is despite her imperial status!”
2. THE GREAT WOMEN ARTISTS
“Art historian Katy Hessel is the founder of the Instagram @thegreatwomenartists, which has evolved into so much, including a podcast. I love Katy’s fresh and inquisitive approach and she has estimable guests, artists and curators who speak really honestly about their experiences as women. I always come away with some kernel of truth and wisdom after listening to this.”
3. ABOUT RACE WITH RENI EDDO-LODGE
“Reni Eddo-Lodge is one of the most important voices for our generation. I read her book when it came out in 2017 and was astounded. This podcast followed in 2018 and is essential for the conversation about anti-racist activism – it has plenty of humour too, and guests as excellent as Reni herself.”
4. DEAR JOAN AND JERICHA
“Dear Joan and Jericha is filthy and sidesplittingly funny. Just please remember to plug your headphones in.”
5. THE MESSY TRUTH
“This podcast hosted by the brilliant Gemma Fletcher delves into photography by speaking to some of the most influential people working in the medium today about how and what we photograph and why it matters in the wider world. Gemma really has her finger on the pulse and always hosts inspiring guests – in the latest series I love the episode with Shaniqwa Jarvis, who talks about her path and how she overcame systemic racism in the art world.”
6. THE MICHELLE OBAMA PODCAST
“I have to admit, I was actually quite cynical about this podcast when I heard it was launching – but Michelle Obama is irresistible and absolutely convincing as a host. Anyone who enjoyed Becoming (which I did) or who is in dire need of some positivity when it comes to current affairs should switch this on. Michelle can really do no wrong.”