To the Contrary Season 23 Episode 1 Contraception Cases; Ban Bossy; Congresswomen & Leadership

In the first episode of the 23rd season of "To the Contrary," the panel discusses several hot-button issues related to women's rights and leadership. The show begins by delving into the recent contraception cases before the Supreme Court, specifically the case involving the Affordable Care Act's contraceptive mandate. The panelists break down the arguments for and against this mandate, as well as the potential impact this case could have on women's access to contraception.

Next up, the panelists turn their attention to the "Ban Bossy" campaign, spearheaded by Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In organization. The campaign seeks to address the gendered language used to describe assertive women in leadership positions, which often includes words like "bossy." The panelists debate the effectiveness of this campaign, with some arguing that the focus on language misses the larger systemic barriers women face in the workplace.

Finally, the episode concludes with a discussion of congresswomen and leadership. The panelists analyze the challenges that women in Congress face when it comes to taking on leadership roles, from systemic sexism to the pressure to conform to existing power structures. They also explore the ways in which women in Congress have broken down these barriers and worked to create a more equitable political system.

Throughout the episode, the panel features a diverse range of perspectives from women in various fields, including politics, activism, and academia. They engage in thoughtful and nuanced debates, examining the complex issues at the intersection of gender, power, and policy. Viewers can expect a lively and informative discussion that sheds light on some of the most pressing issues facing women today.