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Social Norms Chat
Social Norms Chat is a podcast for practitioners, funders, and changemakers eager to explore how social norms shape behaviors—and how they can be shifted to drive meaningful change. Hosted by Cäcilia Riederer from TransformNorms and featuring Sohail Agha, senior advisor at Global Health Visions, this podcast unpacks key concepts like aspiration vs. behavior, gender norms, and the power of reference groups.
Through thematic deep dives on topics like mental health, violence, and gender dynamics, we blend research, case studies, and expert insights to uncover what works (and what doesn’t) in fostering deep normative change. With special guests and real-world examples, we provide actionable strategies for those working in policy, advocacy, and community development.
Social Norms Chat
Episode 9: Changing Norms Through Storytelling
In this episode of Social Norms Chat, Cäcilia speaks with Georgia Arnold, former Executive Director of the MTV Staying Alive Foundation and founder of the GA-Agency. Georgia has spent decades using the power of storytelling to challenge social norms, particularly around HIV, gender, and sexuality.
She shares how groundbreaking shows like Shuga—MTV’s scripted drama tackling topics from HIV prevention to gender-based violence—have not only entertained millions across Africa but measurably shifted behaviors and perceptions.
At its heart, this episode is a reminder that storytelling isn’t just about representation—it’s about shifting mindsets and shaping futures.
🔗 Georgia’s Mentions:
- Meeting Mandela
- MTV Shuga Mashariki
- The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
- Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Adolescence on Netflix
📖 Use alongside the Transforming Social Norms Toolkit
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Executive producer and host: Cäcilia Riederer
Special guest: Georgia Arnold
Producer and writer: Dora Ehrlich
Editor: Tabusum Akter