Tips From The Trail

What does it take to manage campaigns in the final stretch to Election Day and how can women candidates navigate the unique challenges they face on the trail? In this episode of Tips from the Trail, Larissa Martinez sits down with Betsy Ankney, a seasoned campaign strategist who has worked at one of the highest levels of American politics: a presidential campaign. Betsy shares advice for women leaders on what it really takes to run a campaign and how to rise to the occasion when it matters most. This episode is essential for women who are considering running for office, working on a campaign, or starting a career in politics.

Learn more about WPLN at womenspublicleadership.net

What cyber threats will you actually face as a candidate, and how can you protect your campaign without breaking the bank? In this episode of Tips from the Trail, Larissa Martinez sits down with Michael Kaiser, President & CEO of Defending Digital Campaigns, to break down practical cybersecurity strategies for women running for office. Learn why passkeys are the #1 security step you must take, how to create a culture of cybersecurity in your campaign, and what mistakes to avoid in high-risk environments. This episode is essential for candidates who want to understand risk management, protect campaign data, and secure their digital presence without overwhelming their budget or team.

Visit defendcampaigns.org to view their free resources and take the first step to protect yourself and your campaign.

ABOUT THE GUEST: Michael Kaiser is an internationally known cybersecurity and privacy expert. In the decade prior to becoming the President and CEO of Defending Digital Campaigns (DDC), Mr. Kaiser was the Executive Director of the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA). He led and grew NCSA's efforts promoting a safer, more secure and more trusted Internet, including signature programs such as National Cyber Security Awareness Month. NCSA's work earned several awards including in 2017 winning the SC Magazine Editor's Choice Award, and two Silver Anvil Awards from the Public Relations Society of America.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Kaiser held executive management positions at the National Center for Victims of Crime in Washington, DC and Safe Horizon in New York City. He led the development and implementation of programs for victims of domestic violence, stalking, teen victims, and others whose lives had been impacted by crime.

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

How do you build a winning team as a woman running for office? In this episode of Tips from the Trail, Larissa Martinez talks with Sandra Benitez from the LIBRE Initiative about what it takes to assemble a strong campaign team. Sandra shares insights on including diverse voices, leading with authenticity, and creating supportive environments that set your campaign up for success. Whether you're a first-time female candidate or a current leader looking to empower your staff, this episode offers practical advice on team building and leadership strategies.

Sandra Benitez is the Executive Director for the LIBRE Initiative, sponsor of WPLN's 2025 National Summit. With over a decade of experience in various policy, advocacy, and political campaign roles, Sandra specializes in targeting the rapidly growing US Hispanic electorate.

How do you raise the money you need to win your first campaign—without burning out or burning bridges? In this episode of Tips from the Trail, WPLN Founder & President Larissa Martinez sits down with political strategist Danielle Bradley to break down the fundamentals of campaign fundraising. With experience managing field operations, coalitions, and communications at every level—including serving as Executive Director of the Montana Republican Party—Danielle shares practical, battle-tested strategies for building a fundraising plan that works. Whether you're a first-time candidate or just refining your fundraising approach, this episode is packed with real-world advice to help you hit your campaign finance goals. Learn more about WPLN's resources at womenspublicleadership.net

Hosted by WPLN Founder & President Larissa Martinez, Tips From The Trail explores the path to political office, from the decision to run, to election day. This program features women leaders who are working in or around politics or have run for office, revealing their best tips and tricks for success.

Our next episode will feature June Cutter, who, after a nearly 20-year career as a civil litigator and a notable 2020 State Assembly campaign that launched her as a Republican rising star, now spearheads Highland-Illuminate, a top fundraising firm, and specializes in individual branding.

Connect with June: https://www.junecutter.com

This month, Larissa is joined by Joel Noyes, Chair of WPLN's Board of Directors. In this latest installment, Joel and Larissa share practical advice for preparing support systems for public leadership challenges and shed light on how families, partners, and friends can better understand and provide support for women leaders. Discover how WPLN builds robust networks and get actionable advice for both women seeking support and for partners aiming to be a strong source of encouragement.

Join us for a special "Mother's Day" episode with Jennifer Nassour on running for City Council and motherhood. We delve into her experiences both on the campaign trail and off, the role of her support system during the journey, and her advice for other women considering taking that next step.

What drives you to lead? Larissa Martinez sits down with Maralyn Beck, founder of the New Mexico Child First Network, to explore how a strong sense of purpose is the foundation for effective leadership. Maralyn shares her personal journey and insights on overcoming hesitation, translating passion into action, and building a supportive network to lead with conviction.

What is the Confidence Gap, and how does it affect women in leadership? Larissa Martinez (WPLN Founder & President) and Valerie Dowling (Vice Chair, WPLN Board of Directors) dive into why it's not only important to lead with competence, but also with confidence.

Ever wonder what it takes to run for office? In WPLN's debut podcast episode, Former U.S. Representative Mimi Walters shares her journey and path to political office, how she conquered her fears and and strategies for building consensus in elected office.

Plus, get 10% off tickets to our 2025 National Summit in Orlando for a limited time with code PODCAST. Valid through 11:59 p.m. ET on February 9, 2025, for General Admission tickets only.