The EmpowHERment Show

Adama, Sam, and Maddie

Our podcast is designed to empower women to take control of their lives, make informed decisions, and redefine success on their own terms—beyond the noise of influencer culture. 

  1. NOV 18

    Episode 25: Ebony Twilley Martin on Environmental Justice and Imagining A Different Future

    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 Leadership06:49 Intersectionality in Environmentalism08:18 Challenges in Climate Justice Work11:28 Navigating Donor Relationships15:49 The Impact of SLAPP Lawsuits20:00 Decision-Making in High-Stakes Situations24:53 Balancing Activism and Legal Constraints27:42 Leading with Imagination and Creativity33:55 The Impact of Budget Constraints on Nonprofits37:37 The Importance of Board Diversity38:39 Systemic Bias Against Women of Color in Leadership42:37 The Need for Supportive Networks45:40 Empowering Women Through Coaching48:25 Celebrating Small Victories53:33 The Power of Voting for Change54:34 Trusting Yourself in Leadership RolesKeep up with the EmpowHER ladies by following them on socials as well as subscribing on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts! YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    57 min

  2. NOV 4

    Episode 24: Catharine Baker on the Power of Bipartisanship in Today’s Polarized World

    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 Baker08:28 The Journey to Public Office14:06 Civility and Compromise in Politics18:21 Navigating Political Challenges27:56 The Evolution of the Republican Party30:08 Reflections on Political Generations33:41 The Rise of Partisan Politics35:24 Engaging the Next Generation38:40 The Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse46:08 California's Political Landscape and Leadership Dynamics55:42 The Role of the Governor vs. Legislature59:48 Institutional Knowledge and Political Expertise01:02:36 Legislative Accomplishments01:07:03 Advice for Aspiring Politicians01:09:21 Women to WatchKeep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials! YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    1h 12m

  3. OCT 21

    Episode 23: Dr. Aishatu Yusuf on Working in Possibility to Reform the Criminal Justice System

    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 Yusuf04:43 Aishatu's Journey into Justice Reform11:42 Understanding the School to Confinement Pathways17:52 The Gender Disparity in Criminal Justice22:48 Unique Needs of Women in the Justice System23:24 Advocating for Marginalized Voices27:48 Root Causes of Systemic Issues30:46 Innovative Solutions in Justice Reform38:05 Funding and Partnerships for Change46:17 The Reality of Incarceration and Reintegration49:11 Innovative Housing Solutions for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals51:38 Addressing Gender-Specific Needs in Reintegration54:32 Community Uplift through Housing Initiatives01:00:51 Creating Possibilities for Change in the SystemIf 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: InstagramTikTok YouTube

    1h 8m

  4. OCT 8

    Episode 22: Katherine Legge on Breaking Barriers in the Racing Industry and Embracing Who You Are

    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 Motorsports05:15 The Influence of Family and Mentorship12:23 The Bold Move: Pitching Kevin Kalkhoven 20:15 Navigating Challenges in a Male-Dominated Sport27:54 The Impact of Female-Focused Sponsors31:08 Empowering Women in Racing36:05 The F1 Academy: Opportunities and Challenges42:17 The Influence of Social Media 47:52 Building a Diverse Future in Racing55:38 Spotlighting Emerging Female Racers55:51 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: YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    58 min

  5. SEP 24

    Episode 21: Adama, Maddie, and Sam Why We Know Horoscopes Aren't Real but Love Them Anyway

    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 Horoscopes02:45 The Historical Context of Astrology05:53 Astrology's Influence on American Culture08:59 Personal Experiences with Astrology11:52 ChatGPT and Horoscope Insights14:51 Reflections on 2025 and Personal Growth20:28 Navigating Relationships and Career Changes23:31 The Unraveling of Identity35:46 Understanding Personal Struggles and Seeking Help43:42 Comparing Zodiac Traits: Capricorn vs. Libra vs. Pisces59:46 Love Life Predictions and Astrology01:04:12 Navigating Relationships and Future PlansKeep up with the EmpowHERment ladies by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts and following them on YouTube and socials: YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    1h 10m

  6. SEP 17

    Episode 20: Kirstyn Scott on The Transformative Power of Travel in Creating Taste

    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 Travel01:46 Creating Meaningful Travel Experiences04:08 Understanding Travel Trends and Demographics09:11 Navigating New Travel Regulations12:30 Travel Warnings and Their Implications15:01 Curating Transformational Travel Experiences19:18 The Art of Curating Spaces and Connections25:32 The Journey of Authenticity in Fashion and Culture30:08 The Importance of Meaningful Travel Experiences34:28 Choosing Destinations with Purpose43:23 Sharing Travel Insights and Stories44:07 The Power of Connection Through Travel47:27 The Privilege of Travel48:50 Impactful Travel in Emerging Economies51:15 Creating Equitable Opportunities54:27 Balancing Comfort and Expansion in Travel56:22 Exploring Underrated Travel Destinations59:48 Travel Mantras and Personal Growth01:02:58 Building Community Through Travel ExperiencesIf 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:  YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    1h 6m

  7. SEP 10

    Episode 19: Gil Pontes on Empowering Emerging Leaders to Rebuild our Broken System

    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 Commerce02:58 The Next Gen Listening Tour: Insights and Engagement05:54 Understanding Digital Access and Equity08:56 Preparing for the Future of Work12:04 Economic Anxiety and Job Market Perspectives14:55 The Role of Compassionate Capitalism17:47 Youth Perspectives on Entrepreneurship20:55 The Impact of Student Debt on Career Choices34:59 The Affordability Crisis35:54 Corporate Careers vs. Entrepreneurship38:59 Generational Perspectives on Work42:52 Women in the Workforce: Challenges and Opportunities46:53 Work-Life Balance and Mental Health48:51 Optimism Amidst Challenges52:14 The Need for Ethical AI52:54 Policy Reforms for a Better FutureYou 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. YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    1h 4m

  8. SEP 3

    Episode 18 - Gavin McHale on How Your Self-Talk Shapes Your Reality (And How to Rewrite It)

    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:  YouTubeInstagramTikTok

    59 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Our podcast is designed to empower women to take control of their lives, make informed decisions, and redefine success on their own terms—beyond the noise of influencer culture. 

Information

  • Creator
    Adama, Sam, and Maddie
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The EmpowHERment Show
  • Show Website
    The EmpowHERment Show