Not Small Men: Why Women in Politics Deserve a New Approach
Any woman who does media knows that you cannot, under any circumstances, show anger. Because the research is really clear—people stop listening. When a man does it, he’s passionate, he’s showing leadership. When a woman does it, people stop believing her.
Today, my guest is Karen Sugrue. Karen is a psychotherapist, sociology lecturer, activist, lobbyist, and campaign manager. She is an intersectional feminist who advocates for reproductive rights, trans rights, and greater representation of women in Irish politics.
I got to know Karen through her role as campaign manager for Elisa O’Donovan in the 2024 Irish General Election. I’ve long believed that campaign managers play one of the most crucial—yet often unsung—roles in politics, so I was eager to learn more about what the job entails.
In our conversation, we also discuss the challenges women face in politics and what it will take to encourage more women to get involved. So, I hope you’re sitting comfortably and happy to stay with us.
Show Notes
For more, hear my conversation with Sanam Naraghi Anderlini, Clodagh Finn, and Mary Ward.
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