Forever35 Podcast Summary: Episode 335 – "One Foot In Front of the Other" with Bridget Todd
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu
Guest: Bridget Todd
1. Navigating Personal and Environmental Challenges
In this emotionally charged episode of Forever35, hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu open up about the pervasive impact of wildfires in Los Angeles, setting a heartfelt and urgent tone for the conversation. The episode begins with a listener's distressing message about the LA fires, prompting Doree to express her concerns:
Doree Shafrir [02:21]: "LA is burning and we're just like processing everything that's happening."
Elise shares her dual role of hosting the podcast while actively reporting on the wildfires for NPR, highlighting the blend of personal experience and professional responsibility:
Elise Hu [02:55]: "Because this is such a banana story and such a big deal, I really wanted to pitch in and am sort of relieved I've been able to sort of keep busy in that way."
The co-hosts discuss the unusual proximity of wildfires to urban areas in Los Angeles, reflecting on the unique challenges posed by the city's varied terrain:
Doree Shafrir [04:11]: "There's so much varied terrain within, like, a very small area. ... We're really up against this terrain that is just, you know, it. It's not urban."
They also touch upon the broader community efforts to support those affected, providing listeners with actionable ways to help, such as donating to the Pasadena Humane Society and the LA Regional Food Bank.
2. Introducing Bridget Todd: A Voice for Digital Inclusivity
The episode warmly welcomes guest Bridget Todd, a seasoned podcaster and digital activist known for her work on inclusivity for women and marginalized communities online.
Bridget Todd [17:23]: "Oh, I am beyond thrilled. This is, it's such a joy when you get invited on a podcast that you actually listen to."
Elise provides Bridget's comprehensive bio, outlining her extensive experience in digital strategy, podcasting, and activism:
Elise Hu [11:28]: "Bridget Todd got her start teaching courses on writing and social change at Howard University... she's the founder and CEO of Unbossed Creative..."
3. Personal Resilience and Self-Care Practices
Bridget opens up about her struggles, revealing a profoundly personal journey through loss and grief:
Bridget Todd [21:03]: "I am really coming out of, like, what I can safely say is the worst year of my life. I lost both my parents."
She emphasizes the importance of finding small joys and practicing gratitude as coping mechanisms:
Bridget Todd [20:34]: "Having something like reading fiction or nonfiction... guard against the devaluing of expertise."
The discussion highlights how personal experiences shape one's approach to self-care and community engagement during tumultuous times.
4. Combating Disinformation and Preserving Truth Online
Bridget delves into the critical issue of disinformation on the internet, particularly in the wake of Meta's (formerly Facebook) recent shifts away from fact-checking:
Bridget Todd [26:49]: "What is true actually matters. And so I think as we see these tech leaders kind of getting, saying they're getting out of the business of truth is alarming."
She articulates the nuanced view that while fact-checking may not always directly change beliefs, it serves as a crucial stance against the spread of harmful misinformation:
Bridget Todd [27:21]: "Even if the tool of fact checking is maybe not the most effective platform, saying, hey, here's a line in the sand... embodies a belief in truth."
Elise references recent discussions on misinformation's broader societal impacts, to which Bridget responds by connecting the suppression of truth to the erosion of societal norms and protections, especially for marginalized groups.
5. The Intersection of Online Spaces and Democracy
Bridget passionately discusses how unchecked misogyny and racism online can undermine democratic processes and civic engagement:
Bridget Todd [37:27]: "I have this fantasy podcast in my head that explores the way that unchecked misogyny and racism online... are shaping our democracy."
She underscores the importance of addressing online harassment and hate speech to ensure a healthy, representative democracy. The conversation bridges the gap between digital activism and real-world political outcomes, emphasizing the ripple effects of online behavior on societal structures.
6. Building and Finding Safe Online Communities
In exploring solutions, Bridget shares her perspectives on cultivating safer, more intentional online spaces:
Bridget Todd [35:50]: "I'm excited to see if people start, you know, refrain, like, redesigning their own Internet and digital experience as something that's more like campfires... more intimate."
She advocates for smaller, curated groups that foster meaningful and supportive interactions, moving away from the overwhelming nature of large social platforms.
7. Recommendations for Positive Engagement and Self-Improvement
Bridget offers practical advice for listeners looking to engage positively with the digital world and maintain personal well-being:
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Commit to Reading: Bridget emphasizes the value of deep, thoughtful reading as a counterbalance to the superficial nature of much online content.
Bridget Todd [43:13]: "In 2025, I am recommitting to reading. Reading for pleasure. Reading fiction, reading nonfiction."
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Engage in Local Communities: She highlights heartwarming examples of online interactions leading to real-world community support, encouraging listeners to focus on their immediate surroundings for meaningful connections.
Bridget Todd [43:13]: "Lean into that... build those connections with the people who are right in your town."
8. Concluding Thoughts and Intentions
As the episode wraps up, Doree and Elise reflect on the discussions and share their personal intentions for self-care and community support:
Doree Shafrir [47:54]: "Go one day at a time, try to process everything that's happened."
Elise Hu [48:04]: "Reflection, even if it's like, hey, five minutes while I'm waiting for my dentist appointment."
The episode concludes on a note of gratitude and solidarity, reinforcing the importance of community and shared resilience in facing both personal and societal challenges.
Connect with Bridget Todd:
- Instagram: @bridgetmarie
- Podcast: There Are No Girls on the Internet on iHeartRadio
- Other Projects: IRL podcast with the Mozilla Foundation
Stay Connected with Forever35:
- Website: forever35podcast.com
- Instagram: @forever35podcast
- Patreon: patreon.com/forever35
This episode of Forever35 masterfully intertwines personal narratives with broader discussions on digital activism, mental health, and community resilience, offering listeners both empathy and actionable insights in challenging times.