Culturally Curious with Nanette Ashby // Raffia Magazine

Nanette Ashby
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Culturally Curious is the brand new podcast by the Gender and Diversity Magazine Raffia. With this podcast we aim to delve deeper into topics surrounding gender, sexuality, diversity and identity throughout arts and cultures. Join me, Nanette Ashby, and some very special guests as we talk about queer experiences through the ages, disability rights, the power of sex education, how to fight street harassment and so much more. Expect eye opening discussion, laughs and some serious sex education. We are very excited to share these fascinating interviews with you all!

Episodes

  1. May 24

    Denmark’s Spiral Campaign and the Colonial History of Birth Control in Greenland with Dr Anne Nørkjær Bang

    In this episode, Nanette Ashby is joined by Dr Anne Nørkjær Bang, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Southern Denmark. Her work is situated within cultural studies and feminist science studies, looking at the intersection of reproduction, gender, technology, environment, and contemporary culture. Together, we discuss her project Endocrine Economies: the Cultural Politics of Sex Hormones and her take on the birth control pill as more than just a contraceptive technology, but a cultural phenomenon. We immerse ourselves in the so-called “spiral campaign” led by the Danish government in the 1960s and 70s in Greenland, and the debates around the administration of Depo-Provera injections that followed. This journey takes us back to the colonisation of Greenland by Denmark and some of the more insidious aspects of forced assimilation, or “Danishisation”, of the Greenlandic people. Racially motivated population control is one aspect which led to the forced sterilisation of many Greenlandic women. Stay tuned to find out more about the history of hormonal birth control and an essential part of Denmark and Greenland’s not-so-ancient history! You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our Instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated!

    Denmark’s Spiral Campaign and the Colonial History of Birth Control in Greenland with Dr Anne Nørkjær Bang

  2. Feb 19

    The Power of Pornography: Behind-the-Scenes of the Porn Film Festival Amsterdam with Jessie van der Berg

    In this episode Nanette Ashby dives into the world of Porn Film Festivals together with organiser Jessica van der Berg. Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Jessie is a copywriter, Sextech School graduate, and speaker on masturbation, vulvas, and pornography. She is part of the team behind the Porn Film Festival Amsterdam. She is also the organiser of SONA, South Africa’s first Sex of the Nation Address - a sex-positive, consent-centered, post-porn festival and fundraiser for the sex worker movements Sweat and Sisonke. Through her agency After Dark, she works on sex- and intimacy-focused projects that help dismantle shame, build connection, and remind people they’re allowed to feel at home in their own bodies. Together, we explore how pornography can be a cultural lens. Jessie shares how porn film festivals reflect local politics, sexuality, and social change, creating safe, community-driven spaces for dialogue, art, and self-discovery. From disability representation to ethical production and taboo-smashing storytelling, we unpack how film can humanise misunderstood industries and spark real conversations. Think of this episode as your behind-the-scenes all access pass to porn film festivals. We also discuss tips and tricks for those of you who would like to start a similar project in your area. But first, go get your tickets for the upcoming Porn Film Festival in Amsterdam! It's from the 26th of February to 1st of March this year. Expect four days of screenings, industry and community events, plus opening and closing parties — all designed to bring film, sexuality, and community together. Are you ready to see porn through a different lens?  You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our Instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated!

    The Power of Pornography: Behind-the-Scenes of the Porn Film Festival Amsterdam with Jessie van der Berg

  3. 04/23/2025

    Objects of Desire: Curating and Archiving Sex Work with Rori Dior

    In this episode Nanette Ashby is joined by Rori Dior, a Berlin-based sex worker, anthropologist, activist, and co-founder of the archive Objects Of Desire. We discuss the ins and outs of creating and maintaining an archive such as Objects of Desire and the importance of institutional collaboration. We also highlight the influence of political environments, and which spaces are held by sex workers within art and history. Within the context of the fight to legitimize sex work as work, the collective behind Objects of Desire has created and curated an archive of objects and more importantly the stories behind them. These objects were received as gifts or accumulated by sex workers themselves. This archive illustrates the diversity within the sex worker community, their work, and the variety of clients.We also talk about Rori’s work as a curator for the exhibition “With Legs Wide Open – A Whore’s Ride Through History” at the Schwules Museum in Berlin in 2024. Rori takes us through the process of getting the exhibition off the ground. We also discuss the collaborative effort behind it, negotiating with art institutions, and the delicacies of interviewing sex workers and collecting stories from a legally and socially sensitive environment. You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated!

    Objects of Desire: Curating and Archiving Sex Work with Rori Dior

  4. 09/13/2024

    Pioneering Women claiming Power in Art Museums across Europe with Laia Anguix Vilches

    In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Laia Anguix Vilches. She is a postdoctoral researcher at Radboud University. Between art history and gender studies, her research revolves around the first women in positions of power and influence in art museums across Europe. Together, we discuss the ins and outs of this project, the importance of historical contexts, political environments, and the advancement of women’s rights. Laia strongly insists on the transitional aspects of the time period she is focusing on, which is the late 19th and 20th centuries. Women’s growing access to education, career opportunities, and the consequences of the two World Wars on the labor market made these positions more accessible. We lean into the intersectional aspects of the topic, covering issues such as the marriage bar and work/life balance, lower salaries, and the significance of networking amongst women. Laia also talks us through the more practical difficulties of postdoctoral research such as working primarily with archival sources as well as budgetary and travel restrictions.This episode offers insight into the gendered aspects of art history and participates in anchoring the importance of the role played by women in cultural institutions. You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated!

    Pioneering Women claiming Power in Art Museums across Europe with Laia Anguix Vilches

  5. 08/22/2024

    Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Work at Universities with Dr Rona Jualla van Oudenhoven

    In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Rona Jualla van Oudenhoven. From 2020 to 2023, she was the Chief Diversity Officer at Radboud University and Program Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. We discuss the ins and outs of what this job entails. Including meeting with students or staff members to listen to their demands, complaints or issues and the process of finding ways to implement long lasting improvements. Rona’s career has taken her around the world. How does one adapt the work to the culture one is in? Rona and I delve into the history of DEI departments in various organizations. We stress the importance of the intersectional work that she does as well as the changes she is able to implement, regardless of the field. Together, we establish the vital need to stay curious and to keep questioning everything in the search for further deconstruction of social and societal norms. Generally this episode is about how to be a champion for human rights and social justice. You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated!

    Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Work at Universities with Dr Rona Jualla van Oudenhoven

  6. 07/15/2024

    Amsterdam’s Red Light District from a Sex Worker's perspective with Nat Portnoy

    In this episode, Nanette Ashby take you with her to the Prostitution Information Center in Amsterdam. It is located in the heart of the Red light district next to the Oude Kerk or Old Church. I have the pleasure of interviewing Nat Portnoy, a multidisciplinary artist, activist, performer, filmmaker and sex worker. First we dive into the history of the Prostitution Information Center, or PIC. The language and terminology we use, matters. Nat describes the diversity of sex workers, their work and the variety of clients. There is still stigma associated with sex work. We examine which misconceptions and stereotypes are the most damaging and why. Nat explains in detail the legal situation and process of registering as a sex worker in the Netherlands. More generally, Nat illustrates the crucial differences between legalisation and decriminalisation of sex work. The Nordic model is often hailed as a positive solution, but we review the concerning consequences of this idea. How did the pandemic affect the sex industry? We discuss the ongoing project of the Municipality of Amsterdam of closing the windows in the district and instead building a designated high-rise also known as an Erotic centre. This endeavour is contested for many reasons, especially from the perspective of sex workers. Nat describes a third alternative to reimagine the Red Light district. This episode is an illuminating and extensive view behind the windows of Amsterdam’ Red Light District. You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated! This episode is awarded through a Display Europe micro-grant scheme, supported by the European Cultural Foundation and co-financed by the European Union. Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

    Amsterdam’s Red Light District from a Sex Worker's perspective with Nat Portnoy

  7. 02/12/2024

    Experimental Archeology and the History of Pockets with Marjolein Kik

    In this installment, I'm joined by Marjolein Kik, a Dutch academic specializing in dress history and experimental archaeology. Their research into the history of Dutch pockets takes center-stage in this episode. We start with the question: What is experimental archaeology? Marjolein explains the nuances of this new and unique research method and how they created an educational tool for museums, based on this research. We discussed materials, sewing techniques and designs used to make pockets between 1650 and 1950. The collection of Dutch pockets Marjolein created and examined are just as diverse as the topics connected to them. Marjolein reveals what women carried in their pockets, how this garment was worn, and used in everyday life. Pockets can provide us with a unique perspective into women's history and identity. For example, how did pockets influence gender roles? And why were the Suffragettes sad to see them go. These questions and many more will be answered by Marjolein. You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is much appreciated!

    Experimental Archeology and the History of Pockets with Marjolein Kik

  8. 11/20/2023

    Interrogating Street Harrasment with Judith and Roos of Catcalls of Nimma

    In this episode we are focusing on the work of Catcalls of Nimma who highlight and fight street harassment. I'm joined by the founders Judith Holzmann and Roos van den Oever to dive deeper into their process, from collecting the stories to putting chalk to the pavement. We examined the issue of harassment in public spaces from all angles, starting with the question, what is catcalling? And what can we do about it? We discussed what effects catcalling has on the individual but also on society as a whole. Is it a question of power? How can we reclaim the streets after experiencing sexual harassment? I wanted to find out how we can support each other better during or afterwards encountering catcalls. Through showcasing Catcalls of Nimma, we hope to inspire you to join the chalkback movement. Street harassment is a global feminist issue. You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ Check out Cat Calls of Nimma's work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catcallsofnimma/ You can find the Heksennacht organized anually by Cat Calls of Nimma here: ⁠https://www.nijmeegseheksennacht.nl/⁠ Join the Chalkback movement or find your towns group here: https://www.chalkback.org/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - it is really appreciated!

    Interrogating Street Harrasment with Judith and Roos of Catcalls of Nimma

  9. 03/17/2023

    Undressing Disability, Sex and Accessability with Jennie Williams from Enhance the UK

    In this episode I am joined by Jennie Williams, the founder and CEO of the charity Enhance the UK. It was a pleasure to talk to Jennie about disability, sex and accessibility. I was eager to ask her about the origins of the charity, the trainings they offer and their campaign Undressing Disability. I especially wanted Jennie to join the podcast to describe what barriers disabled people face when dating, having sex and accessing sexual health care. We explore how the experience of dating can be different depending on weather your disability is visible or not. Jennie and I also dismantle common misconceptions about disabled people such as them not wanting to have sex. Or them having been born with their impairments. However that is not true! Jennie illustrates what Infantilization of disabled people can look like and why it is such a huge problem. We share how we both deal with disclosing our disabilities differently and the challenges of advocating for yourself, especially in a healthcare setting. Jennie explains what damaging consequences the absence of inclusive sex education has on the development of a disabled persons life. The main takeaway of our conversation is: Education is key! If you are curious about why disabled people can have a better sex life and stronger relationships than most, press play!  You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ Go check out Enhance the UK: https://enhancetheuk.org/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - It is really appreciated!

    Undressing Disability, Sex and Accessability with Jennie Williams from Enhance the UK

  10. 11/25/2022

    Intimicy, Mythbusting and Behind the Scenes of being a Sex Therapist with Bima Loxley

    This week I am joined by Bima Loxley who is a psychosexual therapist and sex educator based in the UK. I especially wanted to get Bima on the podcast to talk about their training and education to become a sex therapist and what a day in the life of a psychosexual therapist looks like. We share how we both discovered our passion for sex education and how their training was pivotal in changing their perception of the queer community. We also explore common misconceptions of Bima’s work as a sex therapist and how strangers, but also their friends and family react to it. Other points we talked about include reasons why people seek their help and who can benefit from this type of therapy. They explain how common misconceptions around sex in our society, damage individual’s experiences and lead them to their practise. Do race, religion, ethnicity and other factors influence her approach and if so how. Bima and I discuss where the line between sex work and sex therapy is and why it is important to make a clear distinction. We also tackled the question if Sex therapy is a privilege or a necessity. If you are curious about cultivating more intimacy in your relationships, Bima also gives us some tips and homework to try out at home. I really enjoyed this conversations because I was able to talk to a fellow educator who is just as passionate about diversity and inclusion within Sex education as I am. And as you will hear, you never stop learning!  Bima runs the instagram page @ loxleysexology which is a treasure trove of inclusive sex and mental health education on everything related to gender, sexuality and relationships. Go check out their work!  You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in  this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/  Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/  If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - It is really appreciated!

    Intimicy, Mythbusting and Behind the Scenes of being a Sex Therapist with Bima Loxley

  11. 10/28/2022

    Sodomy, Sex Work and Homoeroticism during the Middle Ages with Dr Jonas Roelens

    This week I am joined by Dr Jonas Roelens. He is a historian and professor specializing in the history of homosexuality. His PhD research focused on early modern urban discourses on sodomy in the Southern Netherlands. I wanted to know all about his research, specifically the perception of sodomy during the Middle Ages and why it was so harshly persecuted. We speak about how sodomy was used in both politics and religious debates at the time. We also discuss how surprisingly different the role of Sex work was in society compared to today and how pleasure factors into this discussion. I especially wanted to get Jonas on the podcast to talk about what kind of challenges one can run into when doing this kind of research. In particular when looking for Lgbtq+ ancestors through the ages. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversations because it illustrates how our perception of sexuality changes based on the culture and time we live in. It was a pleasure to explore this field of research with Dr Roelens.  You can find more information and links to everything we talked about in this episode in the show notes here: https://raffia-magazine.com/ Please let us know your thoughts over on our instagram page @raffia_magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ If you like this episode please leave us a rating and review - It is really appreciated!

    Sodomy, Sex Work and Homoeroticism during the Middle Ages with Dr Jonas Roelens

  12. Trailer

    Culturally Curious with Nanette Ashby Trailer

    Culturally Curious is the brand new podcast by the Gender and Diversity Magazine Raffia.  With this podcast we aim to delve deeper into topics surrounding gender, sexuality, diversity and identity throughout arts and cultures. Join me, Nanette Ashby, and some very special guests as we talk about queer experiences through the ages, disability rights, the power of sex education, how to fight street harassment and so much more. Expect eye opening discussion, laughs and some serious sex education. We are very excited to share these fascinating interviews with you all!  You can keep up to date with everything going on with the podcast and the articles being published by our magazine and have your chance to ask our guests your questions over on our Instagram. You can give us a follow over at @raffia-magazine // https://www.instagram.com/raffia_magazine/ Check out the show notes and our articles over at https://raffia-magazine.com/ The podcast will launch on the 28th of October with Dr Jonas Roelens discussing homosexuality and sodomy during the Middle Ages. So hit that subscribe button now so you don’t miss it!

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    11 Episodes

Trailer

About

Culturally Curious is the brand new podcast by the Gender and Diversity Magazine Raffia. With this podcast we aim to delve deeper into topics surrounding gender, sexuality, diversity and identity throughout arts and cultures. Join me, Nanette Ashby, and some very special guests as we talk about queer experiences through the ages, disability rights, the power of sex education, how to fight street harassment and so much more. Expect eye opening discussion, laughs and some serious sex education. We are very excited to share these fascinating interviews with you all!

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