We Are Spiraling

Why Are So Many People Secretly Curly?

We Are Spiraling

Show Notes

People go to great lengths to hide their curls, either through straightening or buzz cuts. We investigate why. Join the MAYURA waitlist for early access when we launch. Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes stories: WeAreSpiraling.com Follow Priya on Instagram and TikTok And follow the show on Instagram and TikTok for bonus clips.

More from We Are Spiraling

Oct 22, 2026

British stand-up comedian and actor Sindhu Vee describes the intricate and intimate role hair has played in her life, from her time at boarding school in India to moving to the U.K. and becoming an investment banker, to now as a performer who is also a mother, daughter and wife. Join the MAYURA waitlist for early access when we launch. Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes stories: WeAreSpiraling.com Follow Priya on Instagram and TikTok And follow the show on Instagram and Tik...

Oct 15, 2026

People go to great lengths to hide their curls, either through straightening or buzz cuts. We investigate the cultural forces that made, and continue to make, so many feel their natural hair is something to fix. It isn't. Join the MAYURA waitlist for early access when we launch. Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes stories: WeAreSpiraling.com Follow Priya on Instagram and TikTok And follow the show on Instagram and TikTok for bonus clips.

Oct 1, 2026

The word “frizz” actually has a benign definition. Priya investigates the history of how this term was co-opted against us, first by a writer in colonial times and later (even now) by legacy beauty brands. She explains her philosophy around curly hair. Join the MAYURA waitlist for early access when we launch. Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes stories: WeAreSpiraling.com Follow Priya on Instagram and TikTok And follow the show on Instagram and TikTok for bonus clips.

Sep 17, 2026

Throughout history, poets have, like me, been inspired to make curly hair a focus of their work. Curls have been used as a symbol of romance, charm and beauty. I share verses from Hafez, Rumi and Ovid, along with works by modern poets that resonated with me. I hope they make you feel like you are a work of art. Join the MAYURA waitlist for early access when we launch. Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes stories: WeAreSpiraling.com Follow Priya on Instagram and TikTok And f...

Aug 27, 2026

New York state implemented a law this year requiring cosmetology schools to teach students how to work with textured hair. We speak with state assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages, who pushed to make it happen. She explains why hair is a key part of her policy agenda, the role it played in her Haitian immigrant upbringing and what laws she hopes to pass next. Join the MAYURA waitlist for early access when we launch. Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes stories: WeAreSpiraling.com...

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