The EmpowHERment Show

In this last episode of the EmpowHERment Show (stay tuned for the next chapter!), Maddie and Adama speak with Dawn L. Brown, the President and CEO of The EmpowHER Institute. As an advocate and strategic thought partner, Dawn has more than 25 years of experience leading BIPOC youth advocacy initiatives that successfully became California legislation and established best practices for eliminating gender bias across many areas - reforming the juvenile justice system, decriminalizing sex trafficked girls, implementing community-based gang intervention strategies, and ending the shackling of pregnant women. Dawn has also served on various advisory boards and think tanks focused on issues affecting women and girls of color.

This episode focuses on the EmpowHER Institute’s mission to empower young girls, particularly those from marginalized communities, through education and mentorship. Dawn shares insights into the innovative programs offered by the institute, including social emotional learning, financial literacy, and a unique marine science camp. The conversation also addresses the systemic barriers faced by these girls, the impact of recent rollbacks in DEI initiatives, and the challenges nonprofits face in securing funding. Dawn emphasizes the importance of community support and calls for action to help empower the next generation of leaders.

Here are the key episode takeaways:

• The EmpowHer Institute serves over 1,000 girls a year.
• The organization focuses on breaking generational cycles of poverty.
• 100% of high school participants graduate and are accepted into college.
• The program addresses systemic barriers and trauma faced by girls.
• Recent rollbacks in DEI initiatives have impacted funding for nonprofits like EmpowHER.
• Community support is crucial to their continuied existence and success. 
• Dawn encourages young girls to embrace their voices and not play small.

And here’s a breakdown of the episode: 

• 00:00 Empowering Girls Through Education
• 02:23 The Mission of EmpowHer Institute
• 05:28 Innovative Programs for Young Women
• 09:59 Addressing Systemic Barriers
• 11:34 The Impact of Current Events on Youth
• 14:27 Creating Future Leaders
• 17:32 Challenges in Funding and Support
• 21:17 Navigating Government Dynamics
• 23:08 The Importance of Community Support and Funding
• 24:30 Challenges Faced by Nonprofits in Education
• 26:48 Cost-Effectiveness of Community Programs
• 27:48 Empowering Young Girls Through STEM Education
• 30:51 Experiential Learning and Global Opportunities
• 33:44 Success Stories of Program Alumni
• 35:09 How to Support Empower Her Institute
• 39:02 Empowerment and the Importance of Voice

In this episode, the EmpowHER gals are thrilled to welcome Ebony Twilley Martin. Ebony is a nationally recognized leader in the environmental movement with over 15 years of experience in corporate and nonprofit leadership. As the former Executive Director of Greenpeace USA, Ebony made history as the first Black woman to lead a major legacy environmental organization, where she championed environmental justice, racial and gender equity, and frontline leadership.

Ebony’s journey into climate justice began when her son developed asthma — a personal reminder that clean air is not guaranteed for every family. In this episode, the ladies discuss Ebony’s journey into environmental activism, the intersectionality of climate issues, and the challenges faced by nonprofits in the current political climate. The ladies delve into the implications of SLAPP lawsuits on advocacy, the importance of diversity in leadership, and the need for imagination in navigating complex social issues. Ebony emphasizes the significance of voting and community engagement as essential tools for driving change in the climate movement.

Here are the key episode takeaways:

• Race remains one of the strongest predictors of pollution exposure, with black and brown children disproportionately affected by environmental harm.
• Intersectionality matters — you can’t talk about the environment without talking about equity, access, and justice.
• A lack of diversity in environmental leadership limits the perspectives and solutions needed for real, lasting change.
• SLAPP lawsuits are being used to silence advocates and drain resources from organizations fighting for accountability.
• Effective leaders balance activism with legal awareness, navigating systems while pushing for transformation.
• Creativity and imagination are essential tools for leaders facing complex, systemic challenges.
• Voting is one of the most powerful acts of climate action — it’s how we shape the policies that shape our planet.

And here is the episode breakdown:

• 00:00 Introduction to Climate Justice and Leadership
• 06:49 Intersectionality in Environmentalism
• 08:18 Challenges in Climate Justice Work
• 11:28 Navigating Donor Relationships
• 15:49 The Impact of SLAPP Lawsuits
• 20:00 Decision-Making in High-Stakes Situations
• 24:53 Balancing Activism and Legal Constraints
• 27:42 Leading with Imagination and Creativity
• 33:55 The Impact of Budget Constraints on Nonprofits
• 37:37 The Importance of Board Diversity
• 38:39 Systemic Bias Against Women of Color in Leadership
• 42:37 The Need for Supportive Networks
• 45:40 Empowering Women Through Coaching
• 48:25 Celebrating Small Victories
• 53:33 The Power of Voting for Change
• 54:34 Trusting Yourself in Leadership Roles

Keep up with the EmpowHER ladies by following them on socials as well as subscribing on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts!

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This week, we’re sitting down with former California lawmaker Catharine Baker for a candid conversation about what it really takes to lead with integrity in today’s political climate. From her journey into public service to navigating the ever-changing landscape of the GOP, Catharine opens up about the power of civility, courage, and compromise—and why they matter now more than ever. We dive into how social media has reshaped politics, what bipartisanship looks like in practice, and how women can show up, speak up, and step into leadership roles that change the game.

Catharine represented the 16th Assembly District (Bay Area/East Bay) from 2014-2018. A University of Chicago graduate and UC Berkeley School of Law alumna, she began her legal career as a clerk for a U.S. District Court judge before practicing law. During her time in the State Assembly, she earned a reputation as a bipartisan problem-solver — in fact, all sixteen of the bills she authored that passed did so with bipartisan support. After leaving office, she continued public service as a Commissioner of the California Fair Political Practices Commission. Today, she serves as the Director of the UC Student & Policy Center in Sacramento, where she leads student-, faculty-, and policymaker-engagement initiatives for the University of California system.

With her insider view of the legislature, her commitment to civility in politics, and her focus on leadership grounded in values, Catharine brings a uniquely pragmatic and inspiring voice to our conversation. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to make your voice heard in the room where decisions are made—this one’s for you.

Here are the episode takeaways:

• Courage isn’t optional—it’s essential. Leadership means showing up even when it’s uncomfortable.
• Your district comes first. True representation means listening before leading.
• Bipartisanship builds better policy. Collaboration > confrontation.
• Social media skews reality. Real change happens beyond the algorithm.
• Stay connected. Engaging with constituents is what keeps governance grounded.
• Progress beats perfection. Sometimes the win is making a bad bill…less bad.
• Politics is always evolving. Adaptation is the new superpower.
• Women are leading the charge. Their impact in politics is undeniable—and growing.
• Public service takes grit. Dedication and resilience are the real power tools.
• Relationships matter. Building trust across party lines makes democracy stronger.

And here’s the episode breakdown:

• 00:00 Introduction to Catharine Baker
• 08:28 The Journey to Public Office
• 14:06 Civility and Compromise in Politics
• 18:21 Navigating Political Challenges
• 27:56 The Evolution of the Republican Party
• 30:08 Reflections on Political Generations
• 33:41 The Rise of Partisan Politics
• 35:24 Engaging the Next Generation
• 38:40 The Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse
• 46:08 California's Political Landscape and Leadership Dynamics
• 55:42 The Role of the Governor vs. Legislature
• 59:48 Institutional Knowledge and Political Expertise
• 01:02:36 Legislative Accomplishments
• 01:07:03 Advice for Aspiring Politicians
• 01:09:21 Women to Watch

Keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials!

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In this episode of the EmpowHERment Show, Dr. Aishatu Yusuf from Impact Justice discusses her journey into criminal justice reform, emphasizing the importance of centering women's voices and experiences in the justice system. She highlights the unique challenges faced by women, particularly marginalized women, and the innovative approaches being taken to address these issues. The conversation also covers the Homecoming Project, which provides housing for formerly incarcerated individuals, and the need for community engagement and partnership in creating effective change.

Here are the episode takeaways:

• Aishatu reminds us that real reform starts when we center women’s lived experiences — not as an afterthought, but as the foundation.
• The school-to-confinement pipeline exposes how deeply systemic inequities run, especially for women and girls of color.
• To create lasting change, we need innovative solutions that acknowledge the unique challenges women face inside and beyond the justice system.
• Community engagement isn’t optional — it’s essential. The most effective reforms come from listening to and working alongside those directly impacted.
• Programs like The Homecoming Project prove what happens when we prioritize dignity — providing housing and stability for people reentering society changes everything.
• Women in the justice system often carry unseen health and mental health burdens, and it’s time those needs are treated as critical, not secondary.
• Collaboration is key. Reform requires partnerships across advocacy, government, business, and community leaders who are willing to rethink the status quo.
• When we lead with data and empathy, we make invisible needs visible — and measurable.
• Empowerment starts with listening — amplifying the voices of women directly affected by the system, and letting their stories guide the path forward.
• The future of justice reform depends on collective imagination, community action, and the courage to build something better together.

And here is the episode breakdown:

• 00:00 Introduction to Impact Justice and Dr. Aishatu Yusuf
• 04:43 Aishatu's Journey into Justice Reform
• 11:42 Understanding the School to Confinement Pathways
• 17:52 The Gender Disparity in Criminal Justice
• 22:48 Unique Needs of Women in the Justice System
• 23:24 Advocating for Marginalized Voices
• 27:48 Root Causes of Systemic Issues
• 30:46 Innovative Solutions in Justice Reform
• 38:05 Funding and Partnerships for Change
• 46:17 The Reality of Incarceration and Reintegration
• 49:11 Innovative Housing Solutions for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
• 51:38 Addressing Gender-Specific Needs in Reintegration
• 54:32 Community Uplift through Housing Initiatives
• 01:00:51 Creating Possibilities for Change in the System

If you want to learn more about Impact Justice, here is the link to their website, where you can also learn more about Dr. Yusuf. And be sure to keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on socials:

• Instagram
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• YouTube

This week, Adama, Maddie, and Sam are joined by Katherine Legge, a motorsport trailblazer who shares her journey from go-karting to breaking barriers on the professional track. Katherine opens up about resilience, mentorship, and the importance of authenticity in a male-dominated sport, while also challenging how opportunities for women are structured — from sponsorships with female-focused brands to the limitations of segregated programs like the F1 Academy. Katherine emphasizes the need for genuine support, equal access, and representation that inspires the next generation, including her own efforts to create pipeline programs for female racers and even a children’s book, Kat’s Magic Helmet, designed to empower young girls to believe they belong in racing.

As the fastest female qualifier in the history of the Indianapolis 500, Katherine has cemented her status as one of the sport’s elite competitors, with a career that has taken her to iconic circuits around the globe including IndyCar, Sports Cars, NASCAR, and international endurance racing. Katherine is celebrated for her fearless pursuit of new challenges, from leading teams at the renowned 24 Hours of Daytona to competing in the grueling Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. 

Beyond the track, Katherine is passionate about fitness and wellness, integrating running, triathlons, and a balanced lifestyle into her routine to maintain peak performance. Her love for outdoor activities extends to boating and watersports, embodying her spirit of adventure and dedication to exploring life beyond racing. As a role model, Katherine inspires fans worldwide, especially women and young racers, with her commitment to pushing limits, staying true to herself, and championing women in motorsports.

Here are the episode takeaways: 

• Katherine is breaking barriers as one of motorsport’s trailblazers.
• Resilience and persistence fuel success in a male-dominated industry.
• Mentorship and support networks open doors that talent alone can’t.
• Bold moves create unexpected opportunities and lasting impact.
• Female representation in sponsorships changes the future of racing.
• Authenticity in branding and storytelling resonates with audiences.
• Emerging female racers need opportunities to compete against the best.
• Representation matters: seeing women compete inspires the next generation.

And here is the episode breakdown:

• 00:00 Breaking Barriers in Motorsports
• 05:15 The Influence of Family and Mentorship
• 12:23 The Bold Move: Pitching Kevin Kalkhoven 
• 20:15 Navigating Challenges in a Male-Dominated Sport
• 27:54 The Impact of Female-Focused Sponsors
• 31:08 Empowering Women in Racing
• 36:05 The F1 Academy: Opportunities and Challenges
• 42:17 The Influence of Social Media 
• 47:52 Building a Diverse Future in Racing
• 55:38 Spotlighting Emerging Female Racers
• 55:51 Katherine’s Next Steps 

If you want to learn more about Katherine’s amazing career, check out her website and tune into her podcast, Throttle Therapy. 

Keep up with the EmpowHER ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials:

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In this episode of the EmpowHERment Show, we unpack why horoscopes still matter to us and to the culture. We trace astrology’s roots, its uniquely American glow-up, and how it intersects with personal experience and even AI (spoiler alert: ChatGPT is a special guest on this episode). We talk about using the zodiac as a lens for growth, relationships, and identity — without handing over the steering wheel. Along the way, we compare notes on our own signs — Capricorn (Adama), Libra (Sam), and Pisces (Maddie) — and what those traits look like in real life. We close with what we’re taking into the year ahead: self-awareness, a sense of humor, and a clearer filter for what resonates.

Here are the key episode takeaways:

• Horoscopes work best as a mirror, not a map.
• Astrology has history - but its real value is the self-reflection it sparks today.
• Use the zodiac to practice discernment: keep what resonates, drop what doesn’t.
• In uncertainty, ritual and language (like horoscopes) can calm the noise.
• Relationships benefit when signs are lenses, not labels.
• Our signs in real life: Capricorn’s discipline, Libra’s connection, Pisces’ intuition—and yes, boundaries matter.
• Identity is in motion; looking back helps us lead better now.
• Community is ballast: friends keep us steady when life gets loud.
• AI can prompt curiosity, but judgment stays human.
• Choosing yourself first is the throughline—on love, work, and wellbeing.
• Humor helps us talk about serious things without getting stuck.

And here is the episode breakdown: 

• 00:00 The Allure of Horoscopes
• 02:45 The Historical Context of Astrology
• 05:53 Astrology's Influence on American Culture
• 08:59 Personal Experiences with Astrology
• 11:52 ChatGPT and Horoscope Insights
• 14:51 Reflections on 2025 and Personal Growth
• 20:28 Navigating Relationships and Career Changes
• 23:31 The Unraveling of Identity
• 35:46 Understanding Personal Struggles and Seeking Help
• 43:42 Comparing Zodiac Traits: Capricorn vs. Libra vs. Pisces
• 59:46 Love Life Predictions and Astrology
• 01:04:12 Navigating Relationships and Future Plans

Keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials:

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Summary

In this episode of the Empowerment Show, Adama, Sam, and Maddie engage in a rich conversation with hospitality entrepreneur Kirstyn Scott about the evolving landscape of travel. They explore the impact of recent travel advisories and restrictions, the importance of developing taste through experience, and how that happens by going to new places and meeting new people (IRL). Kirstyn shares insights on curating spaces with intentionality and how that is shaping her latest professional endeavor, Fabrica. The discussion also touches on the importance of cultural understanding and appreciation. 

Here are the key episode takeaways:

• Travel is evolving beyond just destinations; it's about experiences.
• Travel restrictions are changing, and understanding them is crucial.
• Taste is developed through real-life experiences, not technology.
• Traveling with the right people can significantly impact your experience.
• Cultural understanding is key to meaningful interactions while traveling.
• Local knowledge can enhance travel experiences significantly.
• Travel is a privilege that not everyone can afford.
• It's important to leave your expectations at home when traveling.
• Traveling should be a balance of comfort and expansion.
• Traveling opens up opportunities for personal growth and understanding. 

And if you want to tune in for specific portions, here’s an episode breakdown: 

• 00:00 The Evolution of Travel
• 01:46 Creating Meaningful Travel Experiences
• 04:08 Understanding Travel Trends and Demographics
• 09:11 Navigating New Travel Regulations
• 12:30 Travel Warnings and Their Implications
• 15:01 Curating Transformational Travel Experiences
• 19:18 The Art of Curating Spaces and Connections
• 25:32 The Journey of Authenticity in Fashion and Culture
• 30:08 The Importance of Meaningful Travel Experiences
• 34:28 Choosing Destinations with Purpose
• 43:23 Sharing Travel Insights and Stories
• 44:07 The Power of Connection Through Travel
• 47:27 The Privilege of Travel
• 48:50 Impactful Travel in Emerging Economies
• 51:15 Creating Equitable Opportunities
• 54:27 Balancing Comfort and Expansion in Travel
• 56:22 Exploring Underrated Travel Destinations
• 59:48 Travel Mantras and Personal Growth
• 01:02:58 Building Community Through Travel Experiences

If you want to learn more about Fabrica, check out their website: www.thefabrica.co 

And keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts, and following them on YouTube and socials: 

• YouTube
• Instagram
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In this episode, Gil Pontes, the Executive Director of the NextGen Chamber of Commerce, joins the EmpowHERment ladies to discuss the current landscape of work, economic opportunity, and the importance of listening to emerging business leaders. The conversation covers the Next Gen Listening Tour, digital access and equity, economic anxiety among young people, and the challenges of affordability in the current job market. They also explore the role of women in the workforce, the influence of social media on entrepreneurship, and the need for policy reforms to support economic mobility and access to resources. The episode concludes with a call to action for civic engagement and the importance of elevating diverse voices in decision-making processes.

Here are the key takeaways:

• The NextGen Chamber is actively empowering the next wave of business leaders.
• Listening and learning directly from communities shapes stronger economic policy and leadership.
• Digital access and equity are non-negotiable for true economic mobility.
• Young people are navigating rising economic anxiety and an uncertain job market.
• Women continue to face systemic barriers in career advancement and pay equity.
• Influencer culture is reshaping how youth imagine entrepreneurship and success.
• While corporate jobs offer stability, many are carving out new, alternative paths.
• Civic engagement remains one of the most powerful tools for driving change.
• Policy reform is critical to address affordability and access to essential resources.
• A more inclusive economy is possible — and diverse voices are leading the way.

And if you want to tune in for specific portions, here’s a breakdown: 

• 00:00 Introduction to the NextGen Chamber of Commerce
• 02:58 The Next Gen Listening Tour: Insights and Engagement
• 05:54 Understanding Digital Access and Equity
• 08:56 Preparing for the Future of Work
• 12:04 Economic Anxiety and Job Market Perspectives
• 14:55 The Role of Compassionate Capitalism
• 17:47 Youth Perspectives on Entrepreneurship
• 20:55 The Impact of Student Debt on Career Choices
• 34:59 The Affordability Crisis
• 35:54 Corporate Careers vs. Entrepreneurship
• 38:59 Generational Perspectives on Work
• 42:52 Women in the Workforce: Challenges and Opportunities
• 46:53 Work-Life Balance and Mental Health
• 48:51 Optimism Amidst Challenges
• 52:14 The Need for Ethical AI
• 52:54 Policy Reforms for a Better Future

You can learn more about the NextGen Chamber here. Keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials.

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In this episode of The Empowerment Show, Adama, Maddie, and Sam welcome Gavin McHale. Gavin worked with Sam a few years ago and helped her shift her own mentality. He is a world-class mindset and business performance coach and the author of Consciouspreneur: What to Do When the Hard Work Stops Working. Known as the "secret weapon" behind a dozen 7-figure coaching businesses, Gavin uses his background as a high level hockey player alongside proven strategies to inspire his clients to build resilience , redefine their relationship with money, and design a life that aligns with their values. 

The hosts and Gavin explore the journey of self-discovery, the importance of emotional awareness, and the impact of hustle culture on personal growth. Gavin shares his personal experiences as a former athlete and how they shaped his coaching philosophy. The conversation emphasizes the significance of aligning actions with emotional well-being and the power of self-talk in shaping one's reality.

Here are the key episode takeaways:

• Mindset isn’t just fluff—it’s the foundation for smashing your goals.
• Self-awareness + emotional intelligence = your best burnout shield.
• Track your wins —because progress deserves to be celebrated.
• Growth means confronting the limiting beliefs holding you back.
• Hustle culture? More like a fast-track to toxic patterns.
• Real power comes from balancing action with reflection.
• Pay attention to your self-talk—it’s telling you more than you think.
• Emotional awareness keeps you aligned with your values and decisions.
• A clear vision for the future helps you push through the hard days.
• And never underestimate the girlfriends who cheer you on. 

And here's the episode breakdown if you want to tune in for specific portions:
 
00:00 Introduction to Empowerment and Mindset Coaching
02:31 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Time Management
10:03 Overcoming Failure and Embracing Mindset Shifts
18:01 The Interplay of Action and Belief
24:32 Radical Curiosity and Self-Reflection
30:32 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies
32:39 Building a Vision for Personal Growth
35:23 Understanding Emotional Awareness
36:51 The Power of a Full Body Yes
39:41 Identifying Full Body No
41:49 Using Negative Emotions as Feedback
43:46 Navigating Career Challenges
46:24 Becoming Your Own Coach
49:30 Confronting Self-Criticism
53:25 Shifting the Narrative of Self-Talk

You can follow Gavin on Instagram and YouTube! Keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them through links below: 

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This week, the EmpowHERment ladies discuss the back-to-school season, reflecting on their own experiences and the challenges faced by parents today. They explore the financial and emotional burdens of raising children, the impact of economic factors on education, and the increasing pressures on mothers to balance work and family life. The conversation also touches on the role of schools as safety nets for children, the implications of funding cuts, and the rising trend of homeschooling as families seek more control over their children's education. 

In this conversation, your hosts discuss the evolving landscape of education, particularly the impact of modern educational practices on children's social skills and literacy. They express concerns about the quality of education, the shift in reading preferences among youth, and the importance of critical thinking and comprehension. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by working parents in navigating school schedules and the inequities in school funding tied to property values. Finally, they provide resources for supporting moms and families in the educational journey.

Here are the key takeaways: 

• Back-to-school isn’t just pencils and backpacks — it’s nostalgia mixed with the very real financial and emotional toll of raising kids.
• The mental load of parenting still falls hardest on moms, and the expectations are sky-high (and totally unrealistic).
• Women are leaving the workforce in droves because society still hasn’t figured out how to support working parents.
• Schools aren’t just classrooms — they’re safety nets. But funding tied to property values keeps inequity alive.
• Homeschooling is growing, fueled by culture wars and economics, while parents everywhere wrestle with rigid schedules that don’t fit modern family life.
• Kids need more than test scores: shared experiences, hobbies, and emotional intelligence are just as critical.
• Literacy and critical thinking skills are slipping — and that’s a societal problem, not just a school one.
• Change doesn’t come from policymakers alone. Moms, dads, and communities must push for educational systems that actually work for families.

If you want to tune in for specific portions of the episode, here is a breakdown:

• 00:00 Back to School Reflections
• 03:00 Parenting Challenges and Memories
• 06:02 The Cost of Education and Extracurriculars
• 09:09 The Mental Load of Modern Parenting
• 12:05 Work-Life Balance and Gender Dynamics
• 15:01 The Impact of Economic Factors on Parenting
• 17:54 The Role of Schools as Safety Nets
• 20:59 Funding Cuts and Their Consequences
• 23:52 The Rise of Homeschooling
• 27:00 Cultural Influences on Education Choices
• 30:34 The Impact of Modern Education on Social Skills
• 32:26 Concerns About Educational Quality and Literacy
• 34:34 The Shift in Reading Preferences Among Youth
• 37:56 The Importance of Critical Thinking and Comprehension
• 41:30 Reimagining School Schedules for Working Parents
• 45:58 Addressing Inequities in School Funding
• 49:49 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting and Education
• 52:11 Resources for Supporting Moms and Families

And here are some of the resources Maddie mentioned at the end: 

• Moms Rising 
• YWCA
• Childcare Aware
• National Women's Law Center

Keep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials: 

• YouTube