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Curious Minds Podcast
Curious Minds Ghana
40 episodes
3 days ago
Curious Minds Ghana is a youth-led development and advocacy organization based in Ghana working and youth since 1996, to ensure that all children & youth are well informed & meaningfully participate in decision-making that affects their lives by advocating, generating knowledge, sharing information, building partnerships & training young activists at local, national & international levels. This podcast is part of our advocacy efforts to highlight the social, cultural, policy & legal issues affecting children & call on duty bearers to protect & guarantee the rights of children & young people.
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Society & Culture
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All content for Curious Minds Podcast is the property of Curious Minds Ghana and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Curious Minds Ghana is a youth-led development and advocacy organization based in Ghana working and youth since 1996, to ensure that all children & youth are well informed & meaningfully participate in decision-making that affects their lives by advocating, generating knowledge, sharing information, building partnerships & training young activists at local, national & international levels. This podcast is part of our advocacy efforts to highlight the social, cultural, policy & legal issues affecting children & call on duty bearers to protect & guarantee the rights of children & young people.
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Society & Culture
Episodes (20/40)
Curious Minds Podcast
Can Religion and SRH Coexist Peacefully Despite Conflicting Beliefs?

Religion continues to shape how many people think and talk about sexuality and reproductive health in Ghana and beyond. Teachings that emphasise abstinence, chastity, and procreation within marriage often clash with modern SRH approaches like contraception, comprehensive sexuality education, and safe abortion. For many young people, this tension breeds confusion, guilt, and silence when making decisions about their sexual health.


This episode explores whether religion and SRH can truly coexist without contradiction. Can faith communities engage in open discussions on safe sex, menstruation, or family planning without compromising their values? Can SRH advocates and faith leaders work together as partners instead of opponents? Through personal stories and diverse perspectives, we examine how faith and SRH can find common ground in promoting health, dignity, and informed choice.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Ralph, Mavis, Hannatu, Prince, Margaret, Edmund, Jemima, Akosua, & Emery

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – Gymnastic by KiDi ft. Olivetheboy & KOJO BLAK

Closing – Okomfo Kom (AIDS) by Okomfour Kwaadee


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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2 weeks ago
37 minutes 43 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Still a Big Deal? What HIV Means to Young People Today

HIV may no longer be seen as the life-threatening crisis it once was, thanks to advances in treatment, PrEP, and awareness. But while perceptions have changed, new infections continue to disproportionately affect young people—especially adolescent girls and young women.


In Ghana and beyond, stigma, misinformation, and gaps in sexual health education still shape how HIV is discussed and understood. This episode explores how young people perceive HIV in 2025, whether the “fear factor” has faded, and what this means for prevention, testing, and treatment. Through real stories and expert insights, we unpack how HIV continues to influence young people’s lives, relationships, and health choices.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Hannatu, Prince, Margaret, Jemaimah, Kenneth, Jemima & Francisca

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – BALENCIAGA by O’Kenneth

Closing – Agenda by RCee


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds-Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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3 weeks ago
35 minutes 40 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
The Dilemma of Unplanned Pregnancies

Unplanned pregnancies remain a major sexual and reproductive health challenge for young people in Ghana. Cultural, social, and religious expectations strongly shape how society views pregnancies outside of marriage, leaving many young people to navigate judgement, limited knowledge, and little support.


Although safe abortion is legally permitted under certain conditions, stigma, cost, and lack of confidentiality keep many from accessing it; pushing some towards unsafe options. Those who continue the pregnancy often face school dropout, financial strain, and family tension, challenges that disproportionately affect young women.


This episode explores the emotional, social, legal, and health realities surrounding unplanned pregnancies, highlighting how young people experience and manage them.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Maryam, Mavis, Edmund, Jemima, Prince, Margaret & Emery

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – Gidi Gidi (Fire) by Stonebwoy

Closing – It Is Finished by Kofi Kinaata


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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4 weeks ago
33 minutes 50 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Is Period Poverty and Shame Still a Struggle in 2025?

Menstrual health remains a pressing sexual and reproductive health issue, yet silence, stigma, and inequality continue to surround it. Despite efforts to expand access to products and education, many girls and young women in Ghana still face barriers—from affordability challenges to cultural taboos that frame periods as shameful. Missed school or work due to inadequate care is still a reality, while boys and men remain largely excluded from the conversation.

In this episode, we examine progress made, persistent gaps, and the impact of stigma on menstrual health in 2025. The discussion challenges harmful myths, highlights ongoing barriers, and explores how changing cultural attitudes can make menstruation a matter of dignity; not shame.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Ralph, Akosua, Edmund, Hannatu, Prince, Margaret & Emery

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – The Matter (Remix) by Lalid feat. Medikal

Closing – Kakalika by Ibee Melody feat. Fancy Gadam


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds-Ghana

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1 month ago
31 minutes 47 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Do Men and Women Really Experience SRH That Differently?

Men and women navigate sexual and reproductive health under vastly different social expectations shaped by culture, religion, tradition, and power. Women are often judged harshly for sexual activity, while men are excused or even praised for the same behaviours. These double standards influence who initiates contraception conversations, how virginity and sexual experience are perceived, and how issues like menstruation, abortion, and pleasure are discussed—or silenced.

For women, stigma and shame dominate conversations about SRHR, from menstrual taboos to virginity ideals. For men, virginity is often mocked, and masculinity is tied to dominance, detachment, and sexual assertiveness. These imbalances affect relationships, decision-making, and access to care, reinforcing harmful stereotypes that limit equity and open dialogue.

In this episode, we compare these lived experiences and unpack how gendered expectations shape SRHR. The discussion highlights why dismantling double standards is vital for equity, respect, and healthier partnerships.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Prince, Ralph, Akosua, Margaret & Hannatu

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – Esi by Kontihene feat. Kwabena Kwabena

Closing – Street Crown by Shatta Wale


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds-Ghana

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1 month ago
34 minutes 28 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Unpacking the Myths Men Live with About Size, Masculinity and Sexual Performance

From body size to sexual performance, many men grow up surrounded by myths about what makes them “real men.” These stereotypes often tie masculinity to dominance, physical appearance, or sexual prowess—pressures that can harm men’s self-esteem, choices, and relationships.

In the context of sexual and reproductive health, such myths can fuel risky behaviours, silence around vulnerabilities, and reluctance to seek help. Men may feel compelled to prove themselves through sexual conquests, misuse of performance-enhancing drugs, or by avoiding open conversations about contraception and reproductive decisions. These pressures not only affect men but also reinforce unhealthy dynamics with partners.

In this episode, we unpack the myths and stereotypes that men live with, explore their impact on mental health, relationships, and SRHR, and encourage healthier, more balanced understandings of masculinity.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Ralph, Akosua, Edmund, Hannatu, Mavis, Michael & Emery

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


MusicIntro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – Too Late by Wendy Shay

Closing – Ensesa by Akwaboah Jnr


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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1 month ago
36 minutes 53 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Spotting the Signs of Toxic Relationships Before It’s Too Late

Toxic relationships don’t always start with obvious abuse; they often build gradually through subtle manipulation, control, and emotional harm. Feelings of love, infatuation, or dependency can make it easy to overlook or excuse red flags, while cultural narratives and media portrayals sometimes normalise unhealthy behaviours.

In this episode, we explore how to recognise early warning signs—such as isolation, jealousy, gaslighting, or emotional blackmail—and the importance of self-worth and boundaries. Listeners will gain tools to assess their relationships, know when to seek help, and understand that leaving a toxic relationship is not failure but an act of self-preservation.


Credits

Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah

Panellists: Prince, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Kenneth, Jemaimah & Francisca

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro – The Curious Ring

Interlude – Sacrifice by Black Sherif

Closing – No Au Revoir by Ibee Melody feat. AlorG


Connect with us:

X: @cmghana

Instagram: @cmghana

Facebook: Curious Minds-Ghana

LinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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1 month ago
34 minutes 10 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Hookup Culture – Freedom or False Empowerment?

Hookup culture is increasingly visible among young people navigating dating apps, campus life, and shifting views on sex. For some, it represents freedom, sexual liberation, and the breaking of outdated norms. For others, it can feel empty, pressured, or even harmful, raising questions about whether it truly empowers or simply repackages old pressures in new ways.

In this episode, we unpack the complexities of hookup culture—how double standards, emotional readiness, and personal values shape these experiences. Through stories, reflections, and critical discussion, we explore how young people can approach intimacy in ways that respect their boundaries, emotional wellbeing, and sense of self.


CreditsHost: Ransford Owusu-AnsahPanellists: Prince, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Kenneth, Jemaimah & FranciscaProducer: Michael Tetteh Doku


MusicIntro – The Curious RingInterlude – Fefe Na Efe by Tic Tac & Tony TetuilaClosing – Olivia by Lasmid


Connect with us:X: @cmghanaInstagram: @cmghanaFacebook: Curious Minds GhanaLinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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2 months ago
36 minutes 28 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Can You Like Someone and Still Say No? Understanding Boundaries

Liking or loving someone doesn’t mean you’re obligated to be sexually intimate. Yet many young people find it hard to set boundaries, fearing guilt or rejection. This episode explores the importance of saying “no” at any stage, how mutual respect builds healthy relationships, and why consent must always be free of pressure.

Credits
Host: Ransford Owusu-Ansah
Panellists: Prince, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Kenneth, Jemaimah & FranciscaProducer: Michael Tetteh Doku

Music
Intro – The Curious Ring
Interlude – Foko! by King PalutaClosing – Tomorrow by Darkovibes

Connect with us:
X: @cmghana
Instagram: @cmghana
Facebook: Curious Minds Ghana
LinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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2 months ago
34 minutes 43 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
The Pressure to Say Yes: Peer Influence and Sexual Choices

Peer pressure—both offline and online—can strongly shape how young people make sexual choices. From the desire to fit in to the influence of social media, many feel pushed into decisions they’re not ready for. This episode explores real-life scenarios and practical strategies to help young people recognise harmful pressure, make informed choices, and remember that consent must always be free of coercion.

CreditsHost: Ransford Owusu-AnsahPanellists: Prince, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Kenneth, Jemaimah, and FranciscaProducer: Michael Tetteh Doku

Music
Intro – The Curious RingInterlude – Shoulder by Medikal, Shatta Wale & Beeztrap KOTMClosing – Slow Down by R2Bees feat. Wizkid


Connect with us:X: @cmghanaInstagram: @cmghanaFacebook: Curious Minds-GhanaLinkedIn: Curious Minds Ghana

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2 months ago
35 minutes 50 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
The Impact of Pornography on Sexual Expectations and Relationships

Pornography is more accessible than ever in the digital age, with young people often encountering explicit content online at an early age. While some view pornography as a tool for exploring sexuality and pleasure, its widespread availability has sparked significant debate about its impact on perceptions of sex, intimacy, and relationships.

For many young people, pornography serves as an early and often unfiltered introduction to sexual behaviour. However, it frequently presents an unrealistic portrayal of sexual encounters, focusing on exaggerated performances and unattainable physical ideals. These portrayals can shape expectations about how sex should look and feel, influencing individuals' self-esteem, body image, and interactions with partners.

In real-life relationships, the influence of pornography may lead to dissatisfaction, distorted expectations, and challenges in achieving emotional intimacy. Furthermore, the lack of emphasis on consent, communication, and mutual respect in many forms of explicit content contributes to harmful misconceptions about healthy sexual relationships.

In this episode, we delve into these issues, examining both the potential benefits and the significant risks of pornography consumption. By addressing how pornography shapes sexual expectations and behaviour, the episode encourages young people to develop a healthier, more realistic understanding of intimacy and relationships.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panelists: Prince, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Ralph, Ransford, Kenneth, Enoch, Michael and Edmund.

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro - The Curious Ring

Interlude Music -  Fallen Angel by Smallgod feat. Black Sherif

Closing Music - Twa Wonan Ase by NiiQuaye feat. Kirani Ayat & Pure Akan


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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9 months ago
36 minutes 47 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Consent vs Coercion: Where Do the Lines Get Blurry?

Consent is a cornerstone of healthy sexual relationships, defined by mutual agreement, free will, and clear communication between all parties involved. Yet, the distinction between genuine consent and coercion can often become blurred, especially in complex scenarios influenced by power dynamics, cultural expectations, or emotional manipulation. Coercion involves using pressure, threats, guilt, or manipulation to obtain consent, making it neither free nor enthusiastic.


Many individuals, particularly young people, may not fully recognize when consent transitions into coercion. This is often due to a lack of education about consent, societal norms that trivialize manipulation, or personal experiences where coercion is normalized. For example, subtle tactics like guilt-tripping a partner into saying "yes" or using authority to influence decisions can undermine autonomy, even if explicit verbal consent is given.


Understanding these nuances is critical to fostering healthy, respectful relationships and ensuring that all parties feel empowered and respected in their choices. In this episode of the Curious Minds podcast, we unpack these complexities, providing listeners with the tools to identify coercive behaviour, set boundaries, and advocate for enthusiastic, mutual consent in all aspects of sexual and reproductive health.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Edmund, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Ralph, Ransford, Kenneth, Prince, Enoch, and Jemaimah.

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

Intro - The Curious Ring

Interlude Music - Killi Ni by Cina Soul

Closing Music - Excellent by KOJO BLAK & Kelvyn Boy


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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9 months ago
39 minutes 16 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
The Legality of Abortion in Ghana and the Scary Truth About Unsafe Abortions

Abortion is a deeply divisive issue in many societies, including Ghana, where strong cultural and religious beliefs often influence public perceptions. Ghanaian law permits abortion under specific conditions, such as when a pregnancy endangers the mother’s life, is the result of rape or incest, or poses significant risks to the foetus. However, many people are unaware of these provisions, leading to widespread misconceptions that abortion is outright illegal.


This lack of awareness fuels stigma and prevents women from seeking safe and legal procedures. Instead, many turn to unsafe abortions carried out by untrained providers or under unhygienic conditions, often resulting in severe health complications or death. According to the Ghana Health Service, unsafe abortions remain one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in the country, highlighting the urgent need for better education and access to reproductive health services.


In this episode, we address the gap between the law and public understanding, exploring why unsafe abortions persist despite the legal framework for safe procedures. The episode also examines the societal, cultural, and systemic barriers that prevent women from accessing safe abortion care and the role of education and advocacy in reducing the prevalence of unsafe practices.

Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Edmund, Margaret, Jemima, Hannatu, Ralph, Prince, Enoch, and Jemaimah.

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Interlude Music - Kwakwa by Hammer Of The Last Two and Kwaw Kese
  • Closing Music - We No Go Gree by worlasi


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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10 months ago
36 minutes 54 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Beyond Condoms: When Does Sex Become Unsafe?

For many, the idea of "safe sex" centres primarily on physical protection against unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), often emphasising condom use as the main preventative measure. However, true sexual safety goes far beyond just physical health; it includes emotional readiness, mental well-being, and relational respect. These aspects are equally crucial, as situations without these foundational elements can create a space where sex is emotionally or mentally unsafe, even if physical protection is in place.

Factors like consent, communication, mutual respect, and power dynamics all play a role in determining when sexual interactions are truly safe and healthy for everyone involved. Unfortunately, the emotional and mental dimensions of sexual safety are often underemphasised in traditional sex education, leading to misunderstandings about what "safe sex" really entails.

In this episode, we unpack these elements and provide a well-rounded understanding of sexual safety, encouraging listeners to approach their intimate experiences with awareness and care.

Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Samuel, Hannatu, Jemima, Kenneth, Ransford, Charles, Francisca, Nii Narh, Prince and King James,

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Interlude Music - Perfection by Worlasi
  • Closing Music - Princess by Joey B


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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10 months ago
34 minutes 14 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
The Everyday Reality of Normalised Sexual Harassment and Assault

Sexual harassment and assault often bring to mind extreme or violent acts, but many behaviours that violate personal boundaries occur daily and are normalised within societal and cultural contexts. These actions such as catcalling, unsolicited sexual advances, inappropriate touching, or derogatory comments, are frequently dismissed as "harmless" or a “normal” part of interactions, especially in public spaces. However, these behaviours perpetuate a culture where personal boundaries are ignored, and consent is trivialized.


The normalisation of these actions is deeply rooted in societal structures, including gender inequality, power dynamics, and cultural attitudes that excuse or overlook such violations. Victims often feel powerless to speak out due to fear of being ignored, judged, or blamed. This silence allows these behaviours to persist, creating environments where individuals, particularly women and marginalised groups, feel unsafe and undervalued.


This episode shines light on the pervasive issue of normalised sexual harassment and assault, examining how cultural acceptance enables these behaviors and exploring strategies for challenging and dismantling this harmful culture.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Jemima, Margaret, Hannatu, Ralph, Kenneth, Enoch, Jemaimah and Michael.

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Bridge - Fefe Na Efe by Fela Kuti
  • Interlude Music - Child Abuse (Refix) by Tulenkey feat. Medikal
  • Closing Music - Invisible by M.anifest


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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10 months ago
37 minutes 32 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Scared of Pregnancy, But Not STIs: What’s Behind This Fear?

In many social contexts, unintended pregnancies are viewed with a unique urgency and stigma that often outweigh concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For young people, the fear of an unplanned pregnancy can feel more immediate and life-altering than the possibility of contracting an STI, even though STIs can have serious, sometimes life-long, health impacts if untreated. Pregnancy is often seen as a visible and tangible consequence with immediate social, financial, and emotional implications, while STIs, especially those without immediate symptoms, are less visible and therefore more easily overlooked.


Societal and cultural expectations play a significant role in shaping this perception. Pregnancy often comes with social consequences that impact educational and career opportunities, personal relationships, and reputation. Conversely, STIs are more easily hidden, and the perception that they are treatable or “curable” leads many young people to underestimate their severity. This fear gap may also be fueled by a lack of comprehensive sexual health education that provides balanced information on the risks of both pregnancy and STIs.


This episode unpacked these complex factors, shedding light on why pregnancy tends to be more feared than STIs and addressing the misconceptions that lead to risky behaviours. By exploring both societal pressures and health implications, the episode encourages young people to adopt a more holistic approach to sexual health.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Samuel, Hannatu, Jemima, Kenneth, Ransford, Charles, Francisca, Nii Narh, Prince and King James,

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Interlude Music - Bad Feeling by Tulenkey & Beeztrap Kotm
  • Closing Music - Chorkor Special by Joey B


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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10 months ago
31 minutes 35 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Gender Roles and SRHR: How Expectations Shape Our Choice

Traditional gender roles and societal expectations significantly influence decisions related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). In many societies, women are often expected to prioritise motherhood, chastity, and submission in relationships, while men are encouraged to embody dominance, avoid vulnerability, and take control of major decisions within households. These entrenched norms not only restrict individual autonomy but also create unequal power dynamics in relationships, affecting how people engage with contraception, family planning, and sexual health.


For women, societal pressures and fear of judgement may lead to secrecy in seeking contraception or reluctance to discuss their sexual health openly. Conversely, the expectation for men to act as the primary decision-makers can discourage them from participating in open communication about SRHR, leaving critical decisions about their own health and that of their partners uninformed. These dynamics perpetuate cycles of unmet SRHR needs, unintended pregnancies, and disparities in accessing healthcare.


This episode explored the influence of gender roles on SRHR, examining their impact on both men and women while highlighting the need for inclusive approaches that empower individuals to make informed, equitable choices about their health and relationships. By discussing challenges and strategies for change, the episode aims to inspire you to reflect on and challenge harmful societal norms.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Jemima, Margaret, Hannatu, Edmund, Kenneth, Enoch, and Jemaimah.

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Interlude Music - Ntsaase by Ben Brako
  • Closing Music - Mmayewa by Juls, Twitch 4EVA & Quamina Mp


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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10 months ago
37 minutes 17 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Unprotected Sex, Contraception and STIs: Is the Pleasure Really Worth the Risks?

In today’s world, discussions around sex have become more open and accessible, yet the risks associated with unprotected sex, such as unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), continue to affect young people worldwide. Despite increased awareness, many still underestimate or overlook the long-term consequences of unprotected sex, often due to a combination of misinformation, peer pressure, and the allure of immediate pleasure.

STIs remain a significant public health issue, with many infections going undiagnosed due to stigma and lack of awareness. These infections, when left untreated, can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased susceptibility to other diseases. Additionally, unintended pregnancies bring challenges that impact educational and career opportunities, mental health, and financial stability. For young people, the perceived spontaneity and excitement of unprotected sex can sometimes cloud judgment, leading to choices that have lasting impacts.

This episode provides a balanced perspective, encouraging open, non-judgmental dialogue about why using protection is essential for sexual health. By exploring personal stories, expert advice, and myths surrounding contraception, the episode empowers listeners to make informed decisions about their sexual well-being.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Samuel, Hannatu, Jemima, Kenneth, Ransford, Charles, Francisca, Nii Narh, Prince and King James,

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Interlude Music - Condom by Prince Bright (Buk Bak)
  • Closing Music - PUFF PUFF by M.anifest, The Cavemen. & Flea


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

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11 months ago
32 minutes 47 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Love, Sex, and Mental Health in the Digital Age

With the rise of social media, young people today are constantly connected to a virtual world that shapes their views on love, sexuality, and self-worth. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X offer endless content that showcases idealised versions of relationships, bodies, and lifestyles. This digital exposure has made it easier than ever to compare oneself to others, with studies showing that this constant exposure can negatively impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.


Social media has also reshaped how young people view relationships and intimacy. On one hand, platforms offer spaces for self-expression, connecting with others, and discussing topics once considered taboo, like sexuality and body positivity. On the other hand, these spaces can sometimes reinforce unrealistic standards; images are filtered, curated, and often designed to portray a “perfect” life, leaving young people with feelings of inadequacy when comparing themselves to these polished personas. Additionally, the prevalence of online dating and “swipe culture” has introduced new dynamics to relationships, where interactions can feel more disposable and emotionally distant, often affecting how young people perceive commitment and intimacy.

Moreover, the anonymity of social media allows for body shaming, cyberbullying, and other forms of digital harassment, all of which take a toll on mental health. Despite movements promoting body positivity and authenticity, it’s common for social media to fuel insecurities, particularly among young people who may be developing their self-identity.


In this episode of the Curious Minds podcast, we delved into these issues, examining the good, the bad, and the complicated aspects of social media’s role in shaping mental health, love, and self-image. Through stories and insights, the discussion empowers young people to navigate social media in a way that prioritises mental well-being, authenticity, and self-respect.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Samuel, Hannatu, Jemima, Kenneth, Ransford, Charles, Francisca, Nii Narh and King James

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro - The Curious Ring
  • Interlude Music - Wonderful by Baaba J
  • Closing Music - Sika by DJ Vyrusky ft. KiDi and King Paluta


Connect with us:

X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmghana

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cmghana

Facebook: https://facebook.com/CuriousMindsGhana

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cmghana

Show more...
11 months ago
33 minutes 40 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Abstinence Only? Why Comprehensive Sex Education is Essential

For years, abstinence-only education has been promoted as the primary approach to teaching sexual health in many communities, focusing solely on avoiding sexual activity until marriage as the best way to prevent pregnancies and STIs. While this approach aims to reduce risky behaviours, studies show that abstinence-only education often leaves young people without the necessary tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual health. Without information on contraception, consent, STIs, and healthy relationships, young people may be left vulnerable, unprepared, and without resources for safe decision-making if they choose to become sexually active. This gap in knowledge can lead to higher rates of unintended pregnancies, STIs, and unhealthy relationship dynamics, as well as misconceptions about sexual health.

Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) offers a more holistic approach, addressing not only the biological aspects of sex but also critical topics like consent, healthy relationships, emotional well-being, contraception, and self-respect. CSE equips young people with age-appropriate, accurate information that empowers them to make informed, responsible choices about their bodies and relationships. Research has shown that CSE reduces risky behaviours, delays the onset of sexual activity, and promotes healthier attitudes toward sexuality and relationships.

This episode highlights the limitations of abstinence-only education and advocate for CSE as a necessary tool for fostering informed, confident, and safe individuals. By providing a balanced view of both approaches, pannelists emphasised the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge they need to navigate their sexual health responsibly and respectfully.


Host: Mavis Aryee

Panellists: Hannatu, Jemima, Kenneth, Ransford, Charles and Francisca.

Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku


Music

  • Intro and Outro - The Curious Ring
  • Bridge - Let's Start by Fela Kuti
  • Interlude - Very Soon by Fameye


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11 months ago
32 minutes 6 seconds

Curious Minds Podcast
Curious Minds Ghana is a youth-led development and advocacy organization based in Ghana working and youth since 1996, to ensure that all children & youth are well informed & meaningfully participate in decision-making that affects their lives by advocating, generating knowledge, sharing information, building partnerships & training young activists at local, national & international levels. This podcast is part of our advocacy efforts to highlight the social, cultural, policy & legal issues affecting children & call on duty bearers to protect & guarantee the rights of children & young people.