For the podcast logo, I wanted to have the nature and topics of the podcast reflected within it – which would also recognisable for the audience, so new viewers can gather what the themes of the podcast are at first glance, and have a distinguished, consistent branding.
I decided to use a hot pink for the primary colour of the logo, as it is usually associated with women and femininity – but is also commonly looked down upon and seen as a ‘childish’ and ‘immature’ colour, often making women who associate themselves with it be perceived as ‘unprofessional’ and often ‘stupid’.
The pink lips represent traditional, creative femininity, through make-up and self expression, mirroring the view that women who wear ‘too much’ make-up, spend too much time on their appearance, or give ‘too much’ attention to stereotypical feminine things (nails, hair, beauty treatments, fashion, etc) are ‘dumb bimbos’ and often find it hard to be taken seriously – especially in male dominated places. It is also common for hyper-feminine individuals to be more objectified and sexualised compared to others, often viewed as ‘sluts’ or ‘whores’, reinforcing the notion that any woman who spends a significant amount of time on her appearance must be doing it solely for attention and external validation (specifically male).
I chose ‘gossip’ as the podcast name because it is an activity typically associated with women and young girls, and seen as a negative. Most female-presenting people have been accused of ‘gossiping’ at some point in their lives – usually just for talking with their friends. When two teenage girls are seen having a conversation – maybe speaking quieter – a large portion of society assumes they’re ‘spreading rumours’ or making fun of people, etc.
I thought it’d be ironic to use the word for a podcast talking about feminism, societal gender wars, and radicalisation – since it is usually associated with stupidity, ignorance, and immaturity.
