Don't Call Me Stupid

The “Don’t Call Me Stupid” podcasts are a charming series of conversations between a genial father and his teenage daughter as she moves towards adulthood in part through a series of conversations about everyday life. They largely put aside the usual father-daughter roles and speak to one another as two adults getting to know each other. In Episode 3 the two engage in a riveting conversation that I have never before heard broached so publicly - they talk about menstruation. The biology of it, the sociology of it, how it’s covered in school, the family dynamics around it. It’s an astounding exchange; at times cringeworthy and then refreshing. Honestly, this episode should be required listening for all families. Sure, it’s awkward, but this fact of life should not be so hidden away that we can’t really know about it. Thanks, Abby and Daddy, for being brave enough to talk about Aunt Flo and the communists in the funhouse. Your honesty and affection keep us from squirming too much.