Embracing Your Voice

Atima Omara
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Embracing Your Voice

Are you a woman of color who feels like you work in spaces that don’t invest in your success? Do you feel like you’re expected to be less than who you are to make your co-workers comfortable? You know being “authentic” at work doesn’t apply to you? Have you gotten the advice to be “twice as good” to succeed at life and work? Are you tired of playing by someone else’s rules (that don’t apply to others) to have the life and career you want? Well this is the right podcast for you. Embracing Your Voice Podcast is an intentional space for ambitious women of color who want to create a life and career that taps into their expertise, talent and passion while being unapologetically themselves. Navigating life and career as a women successfully and authentically is challenging because many spaces aren’t built for us especially for women of color. If you know you are capable of doing so much more but wondering what to do about it? On this podcast you’ll hear from amazing women of color who by listening to and embracing their own voice created the life and career for themselves they wanted. Listeners will also learn the things that hold us back from being the best version of ourselves, and strategies to help us move toward our goals.

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Women of Color Leading the Way in Advocacy and Activism

    Episode SummaryIn this powerful episode, Atima Omara kicks off Season 3 of the Embracing Your Voice Podcast, focusing on women of color in advocacy and activism. This episode sets the stage for a season highlighting the impact, challenges, and leadership of women of color in the nonprofit and political sectors. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] Introduction to Season 3 [00:03:00] Defining Advocacy and Activism [00:06:00] The Complexities of Compromise [00:10:00] Challenges in Advocacy for Women of Color [00:15:00] Centering Marginalized Communities [00:20:00] Building a Legacy Through Bold Leadership [00:25:00] Advice for Aspiring Advocates [00:30:00] Season Preview Key TakeawaysAdvocacy is Essential: Women of color are pivotal in leading systemic change through authenticity and strategy.Resilience is Key: Challenges are inevitable, but bold action can lead to transformative change.Community Matters: Find your people and amplify the voices of those most affected. Connect with UsWebsite: Embracing Your Voice PodcastSocial Media: @EmbraceYourVoicePodDonate to Support initiatives like Arizona for Abortion Access to help sustain critical advocacy work.Connect: Share this episode with your network and join the conversation on social media. Subscribe to the Embracing Your Voice Podcast for more inspiring stories, and remember to leave a review! Stay tuned for the next episode, highlighting trailblazing women of color. If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/ Connect with Atima on: Instagram Twitter Linkedin

    17 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    When Abortion Access is on the Ballot w/Chris Love (Senior Advisor to Arizona for Abortion Access)

    Guest: Chris Love, Senior Advisor to Arizona for Abortion Access and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona In this episode, Embracing Your Voice dives deep into the critical issue of abortion access in Arizona with Chris Love, a leading advocate and attorney. Chris shares her journey, her work with Planned Parenthood, and her role as a spokesperson for Arizona's 2024 ballot initiative to protect abortion rights in the state constitution. Atima and Chris discuss the intersections of race, law, and reproductive justice in a rapidly changing political landscape. Key Takeaways:Fighting Stigma:The importance of explicitly using the word "abortion" to combat stigma and normalize reproductive rights conversations.The Power of Advocacy:Chris urges listeners to be bold, challenge the status quo, and create space for others, especially women of color, in advocacy spaces.Arizona Ballot Initiative:The 2024 ballot initiative could enshrine abortion rights into Arizona's constitution, providing long-term protections against future legislative changes. Timestamped Key Topics:[00:00:00] Introduction Atima Omara welcomes listeners to the podcast and introduces the theme of empowering ambitious women of color. [00:01:00] Meet Chris Love Introduction of Chris Love, her roles, and her significance in Arizona's reproductive rights landscape. [00:02:00] Chris' Journey to Advocacy Chris shares how personal experiences with abortion and miscarriage inspired her to become a vocal advocate for reproductive rights. [00:05:00] Educational and Professional Background Discuss Chris's transition from law school to advocacy, focusing on her work with federally recognized tribes and Planned Parenthood. [00:07:00] Abortion Rights in Arizona Overview of the 2024 ballot initiative aimed at enshrining abortion rights in Arizona's state constitution. [00:12:00] Strategic Advocacy and Political Engagement Chris explains the importance of linking reproductive rights with broader social justice issues and the challenges faced during political endorsements. [00:14:00] Challenges of Advocacy Reflection on the difficulties of fighting for abortion access in a conservative state and the impact of stigma on the conversation. [00:18:00] Fighting Stigma: The Power of Language The importance of explicitly using the word "abortion" to combat stigma and normalize reproductive rights discussions. [00:22:00] Leadership & Representation As a Black woman in advocacy, Chris emphasizes the importance of diversifying leadership and using her position to uplift her community. [00:28:00] Arizona Ballot Initiative: Ensuring Durable Protections Detailed discussion on why constitutional amendments provide more durable protections for abortion rights compared to statutory laws. [00:35:00] Maintaining Unity in Advocacy Chris discusses the importance of maintaining good relations within advocacy networks and the challenges of representing a diverse agenda. [00:43:00] Impact of Legal Changes on Access Insights into how recent legal decisions have affected abortion access in Arizona, including the repeal of outdated laws and ongoing challenges. [00:51:00] Key Takeaways Fighting...

    57 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    Advocacy Without Compromise: On Abortion Storytelling, Career, and Life w/Renee Bracey Sherman (Exec Dir of We Testify)

    Episode SummaryHost Atima Omara and Renee Bracey Sherman, executive director of We Testify, delve into the timely and crucial topic of abortion storytelling as a tool for advocacy and systemic change. They dissect the intersection of race, class, and gender in abortion access and the current political climate surrounding reproductive rights and share profound insights from Renee's book Liberating Abortion. Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction: Advocacy and authenticity in reproductive justice.[00:02:00] Renee's journey to becoming an abortion storyteller and activist.[00:10:00] The intersection of race, class, and gender in abortion narratives.[00:20:00] Respectability politics and navigating the reproductive rights movement.[00:30:00] Storytelling as a tool for dismantling stigma and driving policy change.[00:45:00] Key themes from Liberating Abortion: Centering marginalized voices.[01:00:00] Advice aspiring advocates: "There's a lane for you - create it if needed."[01:10:00] Closing thoughts and call to action: Building a justice movement. Links MentionedLearn more about Liberating AbortionExplore We TestifyThe A-Files: A Secret History of Abortion PodcastSubscribe to the Embracing Your Voice newsletter Connect with Renee and AtimaRenee Bracey Sherman: We Testify WebsiteAtima Omara: Linkedin, Instagram,Twitter Subscribe today and join the movement for reproductive justice! If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/ Connect with Atima on: Instagram Twitter Linkedin

    1h 21m

  4. EPISODE 4

    When Electoral Politics & Advocacy Collide: On Immigration Reform, Life & Career w/ Vanessa Cardenas (Exec Dir. of America's Voice)

    Immigration Advocacy & Leadership with Vanessa CárdenasEpisode RecapIn this episode of Embracing Your Voice, host Atima Omara welcomes Vanessa Cárdenas, Executive Director of America's Voice, to discuss her inspiring journey as an immigrant and advocate. Vanessa's story highlights the power of representation, navigating policy spaces, and her commitment to immigration reform. Timestamped Key Topics[00:00:00] Introduction Atima Omara introduces the theme of empowering women of color in leadership and advocacy. Meet Vanessa Cárdenas, an immigrant from Bolivia who advocates for immigration reform. [00:02:00] Vanessa's Career Beginnings Vanessa discusses her early inspiration to work in immigration advocacy and how her immigration story shaped her career. [00:06:00] From Advocacy to Leadership Vanessa reflects on her journey from teaching to leading America's Voice, detailing her intentional efforts to represent Latino and immigrant voices in progressive policy spaces. [00:12:00] The Personal Impact of Immigration Policy Hear Vanessa's emotional story about the role her U.S. citizenship played in her educational opportunities compared to the struggles of her undocumented peers. [00:17:00] Navigating Predominantly White Policy Spaces Vanessa shares candid experiences about working in think tanks and mainstream advocacy organizations and how she brought immigrant and Latino issues to the forefront. [00:21:00] The Challenges of Immigration Reform Vanessa explains the complexities of immigration reform and the compromises required to address border security and legalization pathways. [00:27:00] Storytelling in Advocacy The importance of personal narratives in shifting public perception and building coalitions for immigration reform. [00:32:00] Leadership Lessons for Women of Color Vanessa offers advice for aspiring advocates, emphasizing authenticity, incremental progress, and the value of broadening your skill set. [00:38:00] Closing Thoughts Atima and Vanessa discuss the ongoing fight for immigrant rights and the importance of creating inclusive policies that reflect America's diversity. Key TakeawaysStorytelling in Advocacy: Vanessa highlights the importance of personal narratives in shaping public opinion on immigration reform.Navigating Policy Spaces: Insights into the challenges and strategies for women of color in predominantly white spaces.Building Coalitions: The necessity of collaboration in achieving impactful policy changes. Learn MoreSubscribe to Embracing Your Voice for more empowering stories from women of color. Join the conversation on immigration reform and advocacy by connecting with Vanessa Cárdenas and exploring initiatives from America's Voice. For updates, follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Remember to rate and review the podcast wherever you listen! If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/ Connect with Atima on: Instagram Twitter a href="https://www.linkedin.com/atima-omara" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    56 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    BONUS: Repro Horror (and I don't just mean our politics) w/Chris Love

    Summary: In this episode of the Embracing Your Voice podcast, Atima Omara chats with Chris Love, Senior Advisor to Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona. They explore "repro horror," a subgenre of films addressing themes like pregnancy, abortion, and stigma. Chris discusses how horror movies reveal societal attitudes while empowering women to navigate reproductive challenges. The episode also highlights how advocacy intersects with representation in media. Timestamped Key Topics: [00:00:00] Introduction: Atima Omara on empowering women of color.[00:01:00] Guest spotlight: Chris Love's advocacy with Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona.[00:02:00] What is repro horror? Exploring themes of pregnancy and stigma in horror films.[00:03:00] Cultural reflections: How horror movies depict societal fears around reproductive rights.[00:05:00] Film recommendations: Must-watch movies like Birth/Rebirth and Rosemary's Baby.[00:07:00] Media as advocacy: How horror can influence perceptions of reproductive rights. Key Takeaways: Representation Matters: Horror films can reflect and challenge cultural stigmas.Advocacy Through Media: Films offer a unique lens to explore reproductive rights and societal values.Empowerment for Women of Color: Chris Love highlights the intersection of advocacy, representation, and empowerment. Stay Inspired and Connected! Sign up for the Embrace Your Voice Newsletter to hear more stories of empowerment and advocacy. Sign Up Here.Follow Chris Love:Twitter: @ChrisLoveAZLearn more about Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona here.Follow the Podcast:Website: embracingyourvoicepod.comInstagram: @embracingyourvoicepod

    8 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    Fighting for Better Care for All w/Jenn Stowe (Senior Advisor, Care in Action)

    Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode of Embracing Your Voice, host Atima Omara sits down with Jenn Stowe, the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA) executive director and senior advisor at Care in Action. Jenn shares her powerful story as the granddaughter of a domestic worker and how her personal experiences have shaped her career advocating for domestic workers, women of color, and a more robust care economy. We discuss domestic workers' challenges, the fight for paid family and medical leave, and the need for comprehensive long-term care reform. Jenn also discusses the importance of changing how society values caregiving and how you can join the movement to support caregivers everywhere. If you've ever been impacted by care work—whether as a caregiver, an employer, or someone who has received care—this episode is a must-listen. What We Discuss in This Episode: In This Episode:[00:00:00] Introduction to the care economy and guest Jenn Stowe[00:02:00] Jenn's journey and early challenges in care advocacy[00:07:00] The fight for domestic workers' rights[00:12:00] Why long-term care reform is critical[00:18:00] Paid family leave: A cornerstone of the care economy[00:25:00] How to support caregivers and reform efforts Key Takeaways:The care economy impacts everyone—whether you're a caregiver, a parent, or someone planning for aging family members.Domestic workers, who are predominantly women of color, are still excluded from many basic labor protections and benefits.Supporting organizations like Care in Action and Hand in Hand can make a meaningful difference in improving the care system. Resources Mentioned:Care in Action: Become a member and join the fight for better care policies.National Domestic Workers Alliance: Learn more about Jenn's work and advocacy for domestic workers.Hand in Hand: For employers of domestic workers who want to ensure fair treatment and equitable pay. Join the Movement:We all have a care story. Whether you're a caregiver, a care recipient, or someone who values the dignity of caregiving work, you can help transform the care economy. Visit Care in Action to learn more and get involved. Stay Connected:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Follow us on social media for updates and join our mission to create a better future for all caregivers. Connect with Jenn Stowe: LinkedIn Twitter Let's keep the conversation going! If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/ Connect with Atima on: a href="https://www.instagram.com/atima_omara/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    57 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    EPISODE REWIND: S2 Ep. 5 Breaking the Marble Ceiling: The Challenges Women in Political Leadership Face and How to Bypass Them w/ Amanda Hunter

    About This EpisodeBreaking the Marble Ceiling: Overcoming Gender and Racial Bias in PoliticsIn this episode of Embracing Your Voice, host Atima Omara welcomes Amanda Hunter, Executive Director of the Barbara Lee Foundation, for an enlightening discussion about gender and racial bias in politics. Together, they unpack the unique challenges women face in political leadership, focusing on how political representation for Black women is particularly affected by systemic barriers and voter biases. Amanda shares actionable insights from the Barbara Lee Foundation's research, emphasizing how structural inequalities and stereotypes make it harder for women - especially women of color - to secure leadership roles. This episode highlights the importance of authenticity, resilience, and community support for overcoming these hurdles and advancing gender and racial equity in politics. Amanda has covered the Foundation’s research on the role of gender in politics on PBS NewsHour, NPR, and CNN, as well as in the New York Times, the Washington Post, Vox, the Los Angeles Times, and Politico. The Barbara Lee Family Foundation has been resolute in its goal of understanding women's experience in politics and how to break the barriers women face when they are candidates on the federal, state, and local levels. Key Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction and Context: Atima discusses the political context, election results, and her work on elections through the Omar Strategy Group.[00:04:00] Amanda Hunter's Background: Amanda shares her journey from museum and nonprofit work to political research and advocacy at the Barbara Lee Foundation.[00:09:00] Lack of Diversity in Women's Representation: Discussion on the disparity in representation among women, highlighting that 75% of women in Congress have been white.[00:14:00] Stereotypes and Racial Bias in Politics: Detailed exploration of how stereotypes affect Black, Latina, Asian, and Indigenous women candidates differently.[00:22:00] Advice for Campaigns: Strategies for candidates and campaign staff to address biases, including over-communicating accomplishments and using tailored language.[00:26:00] Responding to Sexism and Bias: Voter preferences for calm, professional responses to sexism; Amanda cites AOC's response to Ted Yoho as a practical example.[00:31:00]...

    55 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    Special Episode: WTF Happened in the 2024 Election and What's Next

    Hey EYV fam, this wasn’t the conversation I hoped we’d be having after the 2024 election. Instead of looking ahead to progressive change, we’re unpacking what went wrong—and where we found moments of hope. Despite the results of the presidential election, there were historic wins for women of color, progressive ballot measures, and a brighter path in certain states. But we can’t ignore the challenges ahead, especially for marginalized communities. In this episode, I reflect on: - Historic Wins: The first two Black women elected to the U.S. Senate, pro-choice Democratic victories, and groundbreaking firsts like Sarah McBride, the first openly trans member of Congress. - Ballot Measures: From protecting abortion rights to climate policies, there were wins that matter deeply. - The Big Picture: Why Vice President Harris’ loss was driven by factors like misogynoir, misinformation, and economic dissatisfaction—and how they reflect larger systemic issues. - What’s Next:How communities of color, women, and allies can come together to survive and advocate in the face of upcoming challenges. This episode isn’t just about the election—it’s about survival, community, and figuring out where we go from here. I’m asking YOU, my listeners, to share your thoughts: - What resources or topics can I cover to help you navigate these times? - Who do you want to hear from on the show? Email me your thoughts at EmbraceYourVoicePod@gmail.com Subscribe to the listserv at EmbracingYourVoicePod.com to get updates and resources. Take care of yourselves. Rest, reflect, and connect with your community. We’re not just rebuilding democracy—we’re ensuring our collective survival. Let’s find ways to support and sustain each other. Mentioned in This Episode: - Season 2, Episode 9: Why Kamala Harris Could and Should Be President - Articles I’ve written on misogynoir and Harris’ treatment as Vice President (links in the show notes) Until next time, EYV fam. ❤️ Here are articles I've written on research on how women of color are treated as candidates and/or elected officials: Navigating Double Standards for Women of Color Candidates https://www.genderontheballot.org/navigating-double-standards-for-women-of-color-candidates/ Double Standards, Vice Presidency, and Kamala Harris https://www.genderontheballot.org/double-standards-the-vice-presidency-kamala-harris/ Black Women's Political Leadership: The Barriers https://www.genderontheballot.org/black-womens-political-leadership-part-2/ When The Run: The Challenges Women of Color Face in Politisc https://www.genderontheballot.org/when-they-run-the-challenges-facing-women-of-color-in-politics/

    22 min

  9. EPISODE 9

    On Advocacy & Elections and Building Power for the Latino Community w/Sindy Benavides (President of Latino Victory Fund)

    Ever been that only Black or Latino or Asian person in the room? And you had to advocate for your community's interests too? This is something Sindy Benavides faced a lot throughout her career that led her to work for civil rights organizations working on behalf of the larger Latino community. As President of the Latino Victory Fund (LVF), Sindy's day to day is focused on building political power for Latinos at the local, state and federal level and advocating for issues important to this constituency as well. As a long time colleague and friend in the work, we talk about everything including: her and life and career and why she thought it important to go to an HBCU for college (and how that informs her work today), how she got her start in politics, the importance of trusting your gut and speaking your truth (even if does make you anxious as hell), we also get to what happened with the Latino Vote in the 2024 election and what she and LVF are planning for the road ahead. If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/ Connect with Atima on: Instagram Twitter Linkedin

    1h 20m

  10. EPISODE 10

    5 Tips From Advocates & Activists on Getting Through The Times Ahead

    Hey, EYV fam! In this episode, we dive deep into preparing for the challenges ahead as we navigate the transitions in government and the potential impact on our communities. Drawing from my experience as a Black woman in advocacy, lessons from other women of color, and historical insights, I’m sharing actionable ways to stay grounded, connected, and effective. Let’s get into it: 1. Build Your SquadThe concept of community is more than a buzzword—it’s a lifeline. Whether it’s close friends, family, or chosen family, having people you can lean on is critical. Historically marginalized groups have always relied on this “village mentality” to thrive. Find your people and strengthen those bonds—you’ll need them. 2. Support Mutual Aid EffortsAs federal support shrinks, mutual aid becomes essential. Donate, volunteer, and contribute to local shelters, food banks, or schools in need. Think of it as investing in the resilience of your community. 3. Back Nonprofit MediaTrustworthy journalism is under threat, making independent outlets more critical than ever. Seek out local and national nonprofit media and support them financially if you can. They’re vital for staying informed in an era of disinformation. 4. Fight for DemocracyDespite setbacks, there’s still work to be done at the state and local levels. Support grassroots organizations and candidates who align with your vision. Progress is incremental, but every effort matters. 5. Prioritize Rest and JoyBurnout is real, and it’s important to care for yourself while caring for others. Dr. Sondra Dalton-Smith’s concept of the seven types of rest—physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional, social, and spiritual—reminds us that rest isn’t one-size-fits-all. Find what restores you and make it a priority. Final ThoughtsThe road ahead may be tough, but by leaning into community, supporting local efforts, and prioritizing well-being, we can navigate it together. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Take a moment for yourself today, and let’s continue this work stronger than ever. Until next time, EYV fam. If you enjoyed the show and you want to join our community of other women of color who are embracing their voice head over to https://embracingyourvoicepod.com/ Connect with Atima on: Instagram Twitter Linkedin

    16 min
See All Season 3 (10)

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About

Are you a woman of color who feels like you work in spaces that don’t invest in your success? Do you feel like you’re expected to be less than who you are to make your co-workers comfortable? You know being “authentic” at work doesn’t apply to you? Have you gotten the advice to be “twice as good” to succeed at life and work? Are you tired of playing by someone else’s rules (that don’t apply to others) to have the life and career you want? Well this is the right podcast for you. Embracing Your Voice Podcast is an intentional space for ambitious women of color who want to create a life and career that taps into their expertise, talent and passion while being unapologetically themselves. Navigating life and career as a women successfully and authentically is challenging because many spaces aren’t built for us especially for women of color. If you know you are capable of doing so much more but wondering what to do about it? On this podcast you’ll hear from amazing women of color who by listening to and embracing their own voice created the life and career for themselves they wanted. Listeners will also learn the things that hold us back from being the best version of ourselves, and strategies to help us move toward our goals.

Information

  • Creator
    Atima Omara
  • Episodes
    35
  • Seasons
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 Atima Omara
  • Show Website
    Embracing Your Voice

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