Kacie Riddle’s journey from the theater stage to the forefront of a social movement is a testament to the power of passion and community. Growing up performing as a professional actress from seven to 15, she was no stranger to the spotlight. Yet, the trajectory of her career and life evolved in ways she never anticipated.
After a brief stint at Mankato for college, she embarked on the Disney College Program, a formative experience that planted seeds of wanderlust and independence. "Coming back home was a whirlwind," Kacie recalls. "I thought I had my path mapped out, but life had other plans." Instead of returning to a traditional college campus, she opted for Arizona State University's online program. This choice, though practical, left her yearning for the quintessential college experiences — like rushing a sorority or going to football games— she saw her peers enjoying.
However, Kacie’s involvement in a community theater production of Legally Blonde in 2023 rekindled a dormant passion for community engagement. "It was transformative being around people who shared the same interests," she says. It was also here that friends recognized her natural conversational skills, encouraging her to start a podcast. “Girlhood seemed like an obvious choice for a name,” she reflects, citing the ubiquitous nature of the term ‘girlhood’ that summer, especially with the release of the Barbie movie.
Without extensive plans but with a heart full of ambition, she launched the podcast that summer. Feedback from her budding audience of 140 listeners was overwhelmingly positive, sparking the inception of Girlhood Social Club in 2024. Inspired by listeners who expressed a desire to connect in person, she envisioned a space for women in their 20s to forge real friendships through themed monthly events.
Initially, the journey was challenging. Attendance at events was modest with mostly just her friends showing up, so she faced moments of doubt. "Someone once told me, 'even if one girl leaves feeling like she made a new friend, that’s a victory,'" she shares. This advice became her mantra. The goal was never to influence thousands but to cultivate meaningful connections — a mission that spoke to her inner child and echoed the significance of her female friendships.
The club’s turning point came in September 24’ when a TikTok video went viral, transforming her modest gatherings into vibrant events drawing up to 50 attendees. "I was astonished to suddenly have 50 strangers show up, eager to make charm necklaces in the park,” Kacie recalls with a smile. These gatherings were more than just social events; they were incubators for new friendships and joyful memories.
The pinnacle of Girlhood Social Club’s success thus far was an unforgettable Y2K-themed Galentine’s slumber party, attended by 300 women. Kacie describes it as "the best day of my life,” despite the logistical challenges. "It was girls being girls, dancing, shopping, and sharing desserts, just pure, positive energy.”
The most profound event for her, however, was the one-year anniversary celebrated at the Minnesota History Center. The evening, set against the backdrop of the Girlhood (It’s Complicated) exhibit, was a cultural tapestry of art, music and reflection. “Girlhood, for me, is this social club where girls can express what it means to them,” Kacie explains.
Reflecting on her journey, Kacie acknowledges the complexities and joys of event planning she undertook without formal training. "Every event is funded by ticket sales and my own investment. I could never have done this without the support of friends and the community," she humbly notes.
Looking ahead, the Kacie envisions Girlhood Social Club growing, with bigger events and even more opportunities for connection. "The future is bright," she says with optimism, “I have so many ideas that I can’t wait to bring to life.”
Check out Girlhood Social Club on Instagram, @girlhoodsocialclub, and its website, girlhoodsocialclub.com. Listen to the Girlhood podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.