Changing Narratives Podcast

Welcome to Changing Narratives, the official podcast of The U.S. End FGM/C Network. This podcast is a platform for bold conversations, survivor-led advocacy and the stories that inspire change. Together with activists, experts, and change-makers, we explore the multifaceted fight to end female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and uplift the voices driving progress. From policy wins to personal triumphs, Changing Narratives shines a light on the efforts shaping a world free from FGM/C. Join us as we challenge norms and build a movement rooted in dignity and action. 🎧 Subscribe now and be part of the change! Contribute to us today: https://endfgmnetwork.org/donation/.

Radical Hope: Youth-Led Activism to End FGM/C with Dr. Costly Abosede Aderibigbe 07/09/2025

Innovating Health Solutions and Ending FGM/C with LastMile4D in Kenya 06/11/2025

Faith & Action: How Athia Carrim is Driving Change Against FGM/C in California 05/14/2025

The ‘Husband Stitch’: A Form of FGM/C? Unpacking Medical Ethics and Women’s Health 04/09/2025

The ‘Husband Stitch’: A Form of FGM/C? Unpacking Medical Ethics and Women’s Health In this episode of Changing Narratives, we explore the unsettling yet vital issue of the “Husband Stitch”—a practice often dismissed as a myth but deeply harmful and invasive. Join Hunter Kessous, Medical Student at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and Dr. Raveen Syan, Urologist who specializes in pelvic floor disorders at the Desai Sethi Urology Institute, as they unpack this painful procedure, its connection to FGM/C, and its profound implications on women’s health and informed consent. Hunter dives into the powerful stories of women who’ve endured the “Husband Stitch” and how their experiences are shaping public awareness and medical education. Dr. Syan explains the ethical challenges this practice presents and the lack of research that’s left many affected women without adequate care or treatment options. Together, they examine how healthcare providers can rebuild trust and advocate for better postnatal care. The “Husband Stitch” is not just a medical issue—it's a human rights issue. Tune in to hear how this research is challenging societal and medical norms, pushing for change in policy, and empowering women to reclaim their voices. Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred platform. Support our work: To continue sharing these crucial stories and advocating for change, we need your help. Your allow us to expand our reach, conduct more interviews, and push for policy change. Please consider donating today to amplify these important conversations. Share this episode with your network to raise awareness about the “Husband Stitch” and its connection to FGM/C. The more people who hear these stories, the closer we get to a world where these practices are eradicated. Contact Hunter: If you’d like to learn more about their research or explore ways to get involved, feel free to reach out to Hunter at Hunter has also written a compelling blog post on this topic titled . We encourage you to read it. Dr. Syan also mentioned a great resource for pelvic health information and support—. We encourage you to explore their website for more on improving women’s pelvic health and well-being. Join us in changing the narrative and pushing for a world where women’s voices and rights are always respected. /episode/index/show/f6b95ba0-b041-4229-9673-652cebdca0ae/id/35185770

FGM/C: An American Problem as Much as a Global One 03/12/2025

FGM/C: An American Problem as Much as a Global One In this episode of Changing Narratives, we explore how Washington State is addressing FGM/C head-on, turning local advocacy into meaningful policy change. Join Absa Samba, a leader behind the passing of Washington’s anti-FGM/C law, and Carolyn House-Higgins, the Gender-Based Violence Prevention Program Manager at the Department of Health, as they discuss the intersection of policy, community action, and survivor support. Absa reflects on the years of grassroots advocacy and political strategy that were necessary to pass this law, while Carolyn offers a unique perspective on how state agencies are working to turn legislation into real support for survivors. Together, they highlight why FGM/C is not just a "foreign" issue, but a real and urgent problem here in the U.S. Throughout this episode, you'll hear about the powerful partnerships between community leaders and state agencies, and the lessons that can guide other states seeking to make similar changes. Absa and Carolyn also provide a roadmap for the future of FGM/C prevention and survivor support, and offer tangible ways for listeners to get involved and keep the momentum going. This conversation is more than just an exploration of a law—it’s a call to action. FGM/C is a human rights issue that affects women everywhere, and it's time to recognize its presence in our own communities. Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred platform. Support our work: These conversations are crucial to raising awareness and pushing for meaningful change. To continue sharing these powerful stories, we need your support. Your donations help us expand our reach, conduct more interviews, and advocate for stronger policies. Please consider to help us amplify these voices and keep the momentum moving forward. Share this episode with your network to raise awareness about the importance of state-level advocacy, community-driven efforts, and how each of us can contribute to eradicating FGM/C in the U.S. Contact Absa and Carolyn: To learn more about the work of The Washington State Coalition to End FGM/C, click . You can email Carolyn directly at . /episode/index/show/f6b95ba0-b041-4229-9673-652cebdca0ae/id/35158395

Introduction to Changing Narratives 01/29/2025

From Healing to Action: Advocating for FGM/C Survivors with the Connecticut Coalition 01/22/2025

Changing Narratives Podcast

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