Sexism isn't just about unfair treatment—it's also about the messages we absorb about what is "appropriate," "acceptable," or even possible based on our gender.
In this episode of Beautiful Work Beautiful Life, cohosts Laurel Holland and Laurel Boivin explore how sexism influences our beliefs, choices, careers, relationships, and identities. They examine sexism as both an external system and an internalized set of assumptions that can quietly shape our lives without our awareness.
Through personal stories, reflections on childhood experiences, and thoughtful conversation, they invite listeners to begin noticing where inherited beliefs may still be limiting their freedom. Because the beautiful work isn't simply recognizing sexism in society—it's uncovering the ways it may still be living within us.
Episode Highlights
What sexism is—and why understanding the definition matters.
How childhood messages shape our beliefs about gender, work, and possibility.
Personal stories of navigating sexism in careers, family life, and education.
The difference between witnessing sexism and internalizing it.
Why recognizing internalized sexism is an essential step toward greater authenticity and freedom.
Journaling prompts are suggested to further your exploration.
What messages did you receive growing up about what girls, boys, women, or men were "supposed" to do?
Is there something you wanted to pursue—but didn't—because someone suggested it wasn't appropriate for your gender?
Where might your assumptions about yourself or others still be influenced by sexism rather than your own values?
What examples of gender roles did you witness in your family growing up? How have they shaped your relationships today?
Have you ever experienced—or unintentionally participated in—sexism? What did you learn from that experience?
If you could release one inherited belief about gender, what would it be, and what new possibility would it create for your life?
Host/Cohost/Guest Info
Guiding others to become effective leaders of their own lives, Laurel Holland has been on a journey of awakening and transformation throughout her life. Writing about inner work, Laurel has authored four books, including Crossroads and Love’s 8 Laws. Her books, Live Your Inner Power, the Journal, and Courageous Woman, introduce, share, and explore the eight foundational practices for creating transformation from the inside out. Through her books, programs, and innovative talks, Laurel’s great desire is to lift others up and courageously step into the life they came here to live. You can learn more about Laurel, her books, and work she does at www.liveyourinnerpower.com.
Laurel Boivin is a leadership coach, speaker, and workshop facilitator. Founder of Flux+Flow Professional Coaching, Laurel works with high-performing professionals and mission-driven organizations to shift from achievement to alignment, helping them connect deeply to purpose, lead with confidence, and create environments where people thrive. A Reiki master and yoga practitioner, collector of sea glass and antiques, she lives in New Hampshire and summers in Maine. You can learn more about Laurel and the work she does at www.fluxflowcoaching.com.
The email to send questions to Laurel Boivin is [email protected] and for Laurel Holland - [email protected].