What does it mean to be a tomboy?

What does it mean to be a tomboy in 2025? For decades, the word described girls who shunned pink dresses in favor of scraped knees, tree climbing, sports, and “boyish” interests. But does the label still hold meaning today—or has it become another outdated box to break out of?

In this episode, we dive into the history and cultural legacy of the tomboy: where the term came from, how it shaped generations, and what it says about gender expectations. We unpack media influences, personal childhood memories, and shifting societal norms—with help from a very special guest: Julie, Ami’s mom(!), who shares her own reflections on girlhood, identity, and raising kids in a more inclusive world.

From gendered clothing to playground politics, this conversation explores whether “tomboy” empowered authenticity or reinforced a narrow view of what girls were “allowed” to be. We ask: what’s the modern alternative to this label, and how do we raise the next generation with more freedom to be exactly who they are?