On this powerful episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick Ass Women, host Liz Brohan welcomes guest co-host Marie Newman—former Congresswoman, activist, author, and marketing executive—for a timely conversation with trailblazing leader Anna Dutra.

Anna is a global board director, two-time CEO, and the first Latina and immigrant to serve on multiple Fortune 250 boards. With over 30 years of executive experience spanning public companies, private equity, and nonprofits, she brings unmatched insight into governance, strategy, and leading with courage.

Together, Liz, Marie, and Anna dig into the urgent question: How do women stick their necks out for other women in a moment when hard-won progress is at risk? The conversation spans:

• Why women can’t afford to retreat on pay equity, reproductive rights, and representation.
• How personal stories—like Anna reshaping maternity leave policy—can spark systemic change.
• The importance of shifting the DEI narrative from ideology to business impact.
• Why resilience, creativity, and asking for help are essential leadership tools.
• The power of paying it forward by lifting up women for board seats, leadership roles, and opportunities.

Marie shares lessons from her decades of activism and government leadership, while Anna underscores the urgency of unity, resilience, and showing that equity isn’t just the right thing—it’s good business.

This episode is a rallying cry for women at every level: speak up, innovate, advocate for one another, and never settle for silence when progress is on the line.

Resources & References

1. Harvard Business Review – featuring Anna Dora’s insights on leadership and governance.
2. Forbes – coverage of Anna’s work as a pioneering Latina executive.
3. Life Made From Scratch – Marie Newman’s prescriptive memoir on creating change from the ground up.

Highlight Quotes

1. “Helping another woman succeed isn’t charity—it’s leadership. Pay it forward, always.”
2. “Equity isn’t ideology. It’s smart business strategy that drives talent, growth, and resilience.”
3. “This is not the time to retreat. It’s the moment to double down, speak up, and stick your neck out.”

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