Women of Wayland - The Podcast

In this special episode of Women of Wayland, we bring you a powerful community conversation hosted by the League of Women Voters of Wayland in collaboration with the Wayland Free Public Library. This discussion pulls back the curtain on local leadership—featuring women who have served on the Select Board, School Committee, Finance Committee, and as Town Clerk. Together, they share the honest, unfiltered journey of stepping into public service.From gathering signatures and navigating campaign rules…
To balancing family, work, and public responsibility…
To handling opposition, self-doubt, and the evolving role of social media…This is the kind of conversation that makes you pause and think:
Could I do this too? Whether you’ve ever considered running—or simply want to understand how your town really works—this episode is your inside look at grassroots democracy in action.

🎙️ Featured Voices

• Susan Flicop (Moderator)
• Trudy Reid
• Lee Anderson
• Cherry Carlson
• Yamini (Audience)

🧭 Chapters00:00 — Welcome & Event Overview
Introduction to the event and why conversations like this matter for local democracy.
02:50 — Why Run for Office?
Personal stories of what inspired each speaker to step into public service.
11:40 — Getting Your Name on the Ballot
The real nuts and bolts: nomination papers, signatures, and legal requirements.
14:00 — Campaigning 101 (Without the Intimidation)
How to collect signatures, talk to people, and build confidence as a candidate.
17:00 — Then vs Now: The Role of Social Media
How campaigning has evolved—from newspaper announcements to Facebook forums.
21:00 — Outreach That Actually Works
From coffee meetups to community events—what helps you connect with voters.
25:00 — How Much Does It Cost to Run?
Breaking down campaign expenses, signage, and realistic budgets.
31:00 — Show Up Before You Run
Why attending town meetings is one of the most powerful first steps.
36:00 — Integrity, Respect & Running Against Someone
How to stay grounded, honest, and respectful during a campaign.
41:00 — After the Election: Winning, Losing & Moving Forward
Grace, resilience, and what happens once the campaign ends.
43:00 — Audience Q&A: Real Concerns, Real Answers
Questions on money, family life, social media, and time commitment.
47:00 — Can You Run With Kids? Work? A Full Life?
Balancing responsibilities and redefining what’s “possible.”
51:00 — Women in Leadership: Challenges & Truths
Honest reflections on confidence, voice, and showing up fully.
56:00 — Final Thoughts: Why Your Voice Matters
A powerful closing on why local leadership needs more people like you.💬 TakeawayLocal government isn’t some distant system—it’s built by neighbors, parents, professionals, and everyday people who decide to step forward.This episode is your reminder.

What does it really take to run for local office? In this special episode of Women of Wayland, we step back from our usual interview format to bring you a powerful community conversation hosted by the League of Women Voters of Wayland. Titled “Run For It: The Town Office Experience,” this event explores the decision to run for office, the realities of serving, and why local democracy depends on everyday people stepping forward. This discussion features elected leaders from three of Wayland’s most impactful boards:

• Wayland School Committee
• Wayland Select Board
• Wayland Planning Board

Together, they share candid reflections on:

• Why they chose to run
• How contested elections feel in a small town
• The challenge of balancing work, family, and public service
• What leadership looks like behind the scenes
• Why thick skin matters
• How local governance is deeply personal — but not necessarily partisan
• Why showing up matters more than complaining

With Wayland’s recent elections seeing uncontested races, this conversation hosted by Sue Flicop asks an important question:
How do we ensure voters have choices — and diverse voices are represented at the table? This episode aligns closely with our season’s focus on encouraging more women, young families, and underrepresented voices to step into civic leadership. Local democracy is not abstract.
It’s zoning decisions. School budgets. Library oversight. Long-term planning. And it only works when people participate. Featured Organizations & Resources

• League of Women Voters of Wayland
  Learn more about local elections, civic engagement, and upcoming forums through the League.
• Wayland Free Public Library
  Thank you for hosting and supporting this community conversation.
• League of Women Voters
  A nonpartisan organization encouraging informed and active participation in government.

For information about upcoming local elections, open board seats, and town governance resources, visit:

• https://www.wayland.ma.us
• https://www.lwvwayland.org

Event Credits This event, “Run For It: The Town Office Experience,” was organized by:

• The League of Women Voters of Wayland
• Hosted in partnership with the Wayland Free Public Library
• With additional recording and distribution support from WayCAM 

We are grateful for their dedication to civic education and transparent, accessible dialogue. Why This Episode Matters At Women of Wayland, we believe local governance shapes everyday life more directly than national headlines ever will. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by decisions being made — this episode is your invitation to understand how those decisions happen… and how you might be part of them. Democracy is strongest when more voices participate. Connect With Women of Wayland 🌐 Website: https://www.womenofwayland.com
📩 Email: [email protected]
📱 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @womenofwaylandpodcast

In this trailer for Season Five, podcast host Yamini Ranjan discusses the significance of local governance, and the importance of women's involvement in local governance. She will outline the structure of government in Wayland, the roles of various boards, and the community's support for the podcast in the episodes. The season aims to explore the challenges women face in local governance and encourage more participation.

Music : Riverside
Website : www.womenofwayland.com
Email : [email protected]
Credits : Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund

In this Halloween special of Women of Wayland, we explore the haunted history of Greenways — a sprawling estate in Wayland, MA, once home to Edwin Greene, and later to Frank and Virginia Paine. From a monkey named Simmy who lived under the stairs to a pet cemetery with heartfelt epitaphs, Greenways is a place where memory lives, love lingers, and history whispers. We also trace its connection to the Salem Witch Trials through the nearby Noyes-Parris House, bringing together ghostly echoes, personal devotion, and centuries-old legacy.

Key Themes

• Legacy & memory
• Animal companionship & loss
• Haunted history vs. emotional haunting
• Community and preservation
• Puritan roots and witch-trial heritage

🔍 Sources & Further Reading

1. A History of Greenways – Wayland Museum & Historical Society
   This is the primary historical reference for Greenways, including details about Edwin Farnum Greene, the Paine family, the mansion’s architecture, Simmy the monkey, and the pet cemetery.
   ↪️ Read more: Wayland Museum & Historical Society – Greenways 
2. Noyes-Parris House – Wayland Museum & Historical Society
   This historic house (built ca. 1669) is intimately tied to Greenways and its haunted undertones. Reverend Samuel Parris — a figure in the Salem Witch Trials — lived here for years.
   ↪️ Learn about its history: Wayland Museum – Noyes-Parris House 
3. Wayland Conservation Plan / Greenways Land
   The Greenways site is now partially protected as conservation land, managed in part by the Town of Wayland and Sudbury Valley Trustees.
   ↪️ Check out the management plan: Wayland, MA – Greenways Conservation Area
4. Wayland Historical Society & Museum
   For broader context on Wayland’s past, its Puritan roots, and historic architecture.
   ↪️ Visit: Wayland Museum & Historical Society 
   ↪️ Local history collections via Wayland Free Public Library: Local History – Wayland Free Public Library 

🎙️ Episode Credits

• Narrated & adapted by: Yamini Ranjan
• Inspired by: “A History of Greenways” Presented by Retired Historical Society President Gretchen Schuler (Wayland Museum & Historical Society)
• Historical context from: Noyes-Parris House archives and local Wayland history 
• Conservation background from: Town of Wayland / Greenways Conservation Plan
• Women Of Wayland Website
• Music by Epidemic Sound and Riverside

👻 Disclaimer This story has been built upon verified historical facts and archives publicly available online, including records from the Wayland Historical Society.
However, much of the episode has been creatively imagined for storytelling and atmospheric effect.
Any resemblance to real supernatural events is purely coincidental—or perhaps… part of the mystery.

In this special mid-season episode of the Women of Wayland podcast, we bring you the second story in our Man of Wayland series. This episode is dedicated to the extraordinary life of Dr. Pablo Suarez—a resident of Wayland, Massachusetts, whose visionary work spanned the globe. From the Vatican to the White House, from rural Togo to Boston University, Pablo inspired countless people to act with courage, creativity, and compassion in the face of climate crisis and injustice. Through the voice of his wife Janot, messages from friends around the world, and a beautifully crafted narrative, we remember Pablo’s boundless energy, deep humanity, and fearless call to “be 10% more courageous.”

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

• A heartfelt interview with Pablo’s wife, Janot Mendler de Suarez
• Reflections from friends and colleagues across continents
• Highlights of Pablo’s groundbreaking work in climate innovation and humanitarian action
• The legacy he leaves behind — not only in institutions but in hearts

Resources & Links:

• Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre – Support climate action in vulnerable countries
• More about Pablo’s work at Boston University
• UN University – Forecast-based Financing
• Tedx Talk By Pablo
• Harnessing Humor For Humanitarian Work
• Pablo Suarez Channel

🎵 Music featured in this episode: Epidemic Sound
🤝 Connect With Us:

• 🌐 Website: www.womenofwayland.com
• 📸 Instagram: @womenofwaylandpodcast
• 🎧 Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

✉️ Share Your Thoughts or Memories: Did you know Pablo? Want to share a memory for future tributes? Email us at: [email protected]

In this episode, with an anonymous woman of Wayland, we dive deep into the journey of facing and understanding childhood traumas—how they shape your identity, self-worth, and the way you show up in the world. We explore how uncovering your origin story can empower you as a woman, a parent, and a professional, helping you break cycles of self-doubt, body shame, and career guilt. You’ll hear from a brave woman on how she reclaimed her narrative and stepped into her power. If you’ve ever felt held back by your past, this episode is your guide and inspiration to breaking free and thriving.

• Want to send a message to the guest? Reach out through me - [email protected]
• Have a story to share? Submit it on our website.
• Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it.
• To get notified about what's next follow - Instagram, Facebook and Youtube.

🎵 Music Featured in This Episode: www.epidemicsound.com

🎙️ Disclaimer - Anonymous Story is a space for personal narratives, shared with honesty and vulnerability. The experiences and perspectives shared in this episode are those of the guest and are not intended as professional advice. This podcast may discuss sensitive topics, including childhood trauma and emotional healing. Listener discretion is advised. If you are struggling with your mental health, please seek support from a licensed therapist or a trusted professional. You are not alone, and help is available.
 

Thank you for listening. Until next time, may we all find the strength to own our stories. 

In today's episode, we welcome the remarkable Amy Shroff, a dedicated veterinarian and founder of the Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center of NE, now known as Blue Pearl Veterinary Specialists. Amy, a resident of Wayland, Massachusetts since 1999, shares her inspiring journey in veterinary medicine and her work with her non-profit organization, Lets Save the Strays International. We discuss her mission to assist forgotten animals worldwide, the volunteer-based and self-funded approach of her 501(c)(3) organization, and the significant impact of her efforts in countries like Thailand, Myanmar, Nepal, India, and Ukraine. Amy also highlights the importance of bridging the gap between those who need help and those who can provide it, and her ongoing projects to improve animal welfare globally.

Episode Sponsor: Leah Hart, Real Estate Agent

Links & Resources

• Non-Profit Website: Let's Save the Strays International
• Non-Profit Facebook & Instagram 
• Women Of Wayland Podcast website
• Podcast Instagram, Facebook, & Youtube

Tune in to hear more about Amy's incredible journey, the impact of her work, and how you can get involved in supporting stray animals around the globe.

Today we are talking about an issue that seems everywhere. It seems like a hassle for everyone -managing our digital footprint. We are talking about the thousands of pictures, videos we take, the forwards we receive via social media and instant messaging. So digital decluttering is not just about organizing our own digital assets but also about being responsible and environmentally conscious about our behavior. 

In this episode, we host Kiera Liu, a sentimental memory maker, professional photographer, and visual storyteller behind Frame of Life. As a Wayland mama of two, she is on a heartfelt mission to make memories magical, photo and video collections manageable, and stories memorable for generations to come.

Episode Sponsor: Harmoney Bookkeeping Company, Wayland, Mass

Links and Resources:
- Frame of Life Website
- Kiera’s Podcast
- Women Of Wayland Website
- Podcast Instagram

Join us in this heartfelt episode as Kiera Liu shares her journey, philosophy, and practical tips for managing memories. Her candid approach and simplified systems are perfect for all of us looking to preserve their precious moments.

Tune in to this inspiring episode and discover how to embrace the magic in your everyday moments with Kiera Liu.

In this episode of the Women of Wayland Podcast, we sit down with Sarah Patel, the founder of Kelia, a brand revolutionizing the world of cannabis beverages. Sarah shares her inspiring journey of rediscovering the transformative effects of cannabis as a mother. In this conversation, Sarah reflects on the stigma surrounding cannabis and on the jettisoning away of some of these traditionally held beliefs. She discusses her mission to redefine the cannabis experience through Kelia and empower others to embrace its benefits openly and without shame. Join us as we delve into Sarah's story and discover how Kelia is leading the charge in transforming the conversation around cannabis, one sip at a time.

Podcast Episode Sponsor : Lifetechs Gym, Wayland

Links
- Women of Wayland Podcast Website
- Podcast Instagram
- Music by Epidemic Sound
- Podcast Subscription 
- Kelia drink
- Non-Profit Spotlight
- Patch article
- Boston magazine article
- Podcast host's website



Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Women of Wayland podcast.

Welcome to the Women of Wayland podcast season 4. Today we're introducing a new category: Wayland Trailblazers! A "Wayland trailblazer" refers to someone who pioneers innovative solutions, particularly within the Wayland community. Our inaugural guest in this category is Karen Kelly, a remarkable woman whose journey embodies the essence of a Wayland trailblazer. Take a listen and discover the untold story behind Karen's groundbreaking after-school program, PASS, launched in January, 2023. Learn about how PASS then collaborated with the town, Recreation department of Wayland to launch RecPASS. In this heart to heart conversaton, Karen opens up about her diverse professional background that helped her to find after school care solutions in Wayland and her plans to address the loneliness epidemic.

Podcast Episode Sponsor : Btone Fitness, Wayland

Links
- Women of Wayland Podcast Website
- Music by Epidemic Sound
- Podcast Subscription 
- Connect with Karen Kelly
- Non-Profit Spotlight
- Vox article on after school care
- Karen's company - Purposely Social



Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Women of Wayland podcast. Witness the power of women empowering their communities and facing challenges head-on, just like Karen Kelly. Don't forget to connect with Btone Wayland for your fitness needs and follow Karen's journey beyond this episode. Stay tuned for more incredible stories from our local community. Keep listening, keep empowering!