118: Breaking the Mold: Jodi Bondi Norgaard on Transforming Gender Stereotypes

Have you ever noticed how the dolls on the toy market seem to prioritize fashion over the diverse qualities real young girls possess? In a world where toys often promote unrealistic standards and gender stereotypes, Jodi Bondi Norgaard stands out as a trailblazer advocating for change. Her mission? To design dolls that represent real-life girls and inspire confidence beyond appearances.Jodi’s venture into creating sports dolls wasn’t just about introducing a new toy to the market. It was a bold move against deep-rooted gender stereotypes. Despite facing skepticism and resistance from retailers who doubted that anything other than fashion dolls would sell, Jodi persevered. Her journey transitioned from a business endeavor to a mission of social change, supporting gender equality and challenging the patriarchal norms that pervade our society.In addition to her impactful doll line, Jodi authored "More Than a Doll," highlighting her fight against gender stereotypes in toys and media. As a recognized leader, she has engaged with influential platforms like the White House Gender Policy Council and spoken at forums, continuously advocating for gender equality.Although progress remains slow and the fight for gender equality ongoing, Jodi’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and belief in one’s cause. It serves as a call to action for all of us to question the norms, break down barriers, and support movements that promote equality and freedom for every individual.Jodi’s message is clear: Stay strong and stand tall. Recognize and trust in your inner strength and intuition. By fostering these values in the younger generation, we build a foundation where both girls and boys can grow up in a world unbound by gender stereotypes.We talk about:00:00 Introduction02:40 Jodi's Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship04:55 The Aha Moment: Realizing Gender Inequality12:16 Creating Go Go Sports Girls: The Inspiration18:49 Challenges in the Toy Industry21:21 Reflecting on the Journey21:33 Media Attention and Gender Equality22:03 Challenges and Persistence26:35 The Turning Point: Walmart Opportunity29:35 Publishing the Book35:26 Poem and Future Aspirations38:39 Final Thoughts and EncouragementResources mentioned in this episode:The Mystical Sisterhood Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysticalsisterhoodOne-on-One Coaching: Schedule a Discovery Call HereJoin the ongoing Mystical Sisterhood Creator’s Workshop, Creator Connections here.About the Host: Maureen Spielman is the Founder of Mystical Sisterhood, a podcast dedicated to bringing more joy, healing and expansion of consciousness to the world. She is a Holistic Life Coach who supports women through one-on-one coaching, tailored groups, and workshops. Connect with JodiWebsite: https://www.jodibondinorgaard.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jodibondinorgaard1651 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodibondinorgaard/Facebook: