The Future of Working Motherhood w/ Alexa Starks

The Future of Working Motherhood: Flexibility, Ambition, and Real Support After Maternity LeaveAmy Pons hosts Alexa Starks, maternity leave coach and founder of Executive Moms, to discuss reshaping maternity leave and return-to-work experiences and the findings from Executive Moms’ Future of Working Motherhood 2026 report. They reflect on the need to deconstruct harmful workplace systems, the lack of support for mothers returning from leave, and how simple supports like mentorship can improve retention. Alexa shares key data: 40% of women leave their job within a year of returning from maternity leave, yet 97% would stay if truly supported; the report also found no “ambition gap,” with mothers reporting equal or greater ambition after having kids. A major takeaway was that flexible work design (remote/hybrid/part-time) mattered more than longer leave. Alexa also previews a TED Talk in Rotterdam and the launch of Mothered Magazine.01:09 Coaching and Paradigm Shift03:02 Aha Moments in Corporate05:22 Maternity Return Support Systems06:48 Report Findings and Retention Stats09:02 Ambition Gap Myth Debunked11:43 Burnout and Hands On Work13:54 Workplace Bullying and Boundaries15:20 Surprising Data on Flexibility16:56 Flexibility Tops Requests17:15 Ambition And The 97 Percent17:52 Survey Logistics And Reach18:34 Return To Office Pushback20:51 Why Leaders Cling To Control22:42 TED Talk And Moving Abroad25:04 Launching Mothered Magazine27:04 Super Bowl Holiday Hypocrisy28:46 Advice For The 97 And 4031:06 Where To Find The Report31:32 Feminine Strength ClosingFind the 2026 'Future of Working Motherhood' report along with key updates from Executive Moms here, and follow Alexa on LinkedIn and Instagram. Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

What Stability Really Requires: Breana Grayson on Bipolar Disorder, Stigma, and Support at WorkAmy Pons hosts Women Making Moves and interviews writer Breana Grayson about living with bipolar disorder, what “stability really requires,” and the stigma and misunderstandings that still surround bipolar (“one of the ‘scary ones’”). Breana explains that medication is essential for her but not sufficient; stability also involves therapy, psychiatric care, consistent sleep, exercise, diet, and enjoyable practices like writing, guitar, and “therapy based kind of yoga,” and she defines stability as moving through life without derailing relationships or work. They discuss how menstrual cycles can affect symptoms, Breana’s use of cycle tracking and astrology to document patterns, and her diagnosis process at 25 through an intensive outpatient program after work and relationship difficulties. Brianna argues remote and flexible work are not favors but protect productivity, and she advocates proactive workplace support, education, and community so people don’t handle bipolar alone.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:47 Stability and Root Chakra01:22 Bipolar Stability Routine02:22 Redefining Normal03:46 Yoga and Creative Coping04:33 Bipolar Stigma Myths05:46 Cycles Hormones Astrology08:51 Sharing Her Story at 2609:23 Diagnosis at 2510:32 Screening and Medication Risks11:58 Childhood Signs and School Support14:58 Remote Work as Accommodation17:51 Workplace Support Strategies20:37 Mental Health Across Generations25:21 Advice Find Community27:04 Where to Follow and Closing

Dr. Nelva Lee on School Choice, Vocational Pathways, and Housing Solutions in GeorgiaHost Amy Pons welcomes Dr. Nelva Lee—healthcare and academic leader, former board appointee, author, and Georgia Superintendent of Schools candidate—who discusses the bleak realities of healthcare and education and her focus on solutions. Lee describes Concrete Build Financing, a crypto company backed by real estate aimed at countering private equity’s rent hikes by converting commercial multifamily properties into rent-to-own condos to promote stability, equity, and dignity. In education, she advocates expanding Georgia’s Promise Scholarship Act so more families—including homeschool and private-school families—can access broader learning environments, and she proposes every student graduate with both a diploma and a trade certificate. She cites post-COVID learning gaps, top-heavy education budgets, low reading and math proficiency rates, and calls for basics like phonics, targeted resources, and holding back non-readers by second grade. She also critiques HOPE Scholarship “bait and switch,” urging lower maintenance requirements and a college “star system,” and encourages limiting news, cultivating hope, and volunteering.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:13 Healthcare and Maternal Gaps02:59 Crypto Real Estate Housing Plan06:31 School Run and Voucher Expansion10:36 COVID Learning Loss and Resources15:25 Vocational Skills Over College22:21 Hope Scholarship Reform Ideas27:19 Hopeful Action and Volunteering31:59 Where to Find Dr Lee32:23 Final Thanks and Wrap UpFind all of Dr. Nelva's work on her website and follow along with her campaign!Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Isvari Maranwe on Impact-Focused Activism, Citizen Journalism, and Rebuilding Social MediaAmy Pons, founder of Unlock the Magic, interviews Isvari Maranwe—Silicon Valley–raised tech leader and Georgetown-educated cybersecurity attorney—now based in London. Isvari is CEO and founder of YuVoice, a new social media company designed to reward users for tangible impact rather than a follower-driven influencer model, and CEO of The Sentinel by YuVoice, a nonprofit, ad-free, non-paywalled citizen journalism platform building an all-volunteer global press corps. They discuss the tension between professional success and the emotional toll of social justice work, the importance of boundaries, and prioritizing empowering people who want to make a difference over trying to convince those who won’t. Isvari shares her view that only about 1% of people truly shape society for good, making it critical to change social defaults and focus energy where it creates measurable impact. Isvari explains that YuVoice has closed a $1 million angel round and will launch in phases with nonprofit partners, focusing on “anti addictive algorithms” and mentally healthy design. The Sentinel’s mission is to break global news through local perspectives: “We believe that everybody can tell their story the best.” They critique for-profit media incentives and argue, “media needs to be a nonprofit.” 02:22 What’s on Your Heart: Success, Privilege & Staying Resourced03:54 Stop Convincing the Unmoved: Empower the 1% Who Shape Society06:35 From Righteous Rage to Real Impact (and Posting with Intention)13:00 Why Outrage Doesn’t Translate to Action (and What Might)18:32 What Happens When No One Wants the Baton? Work, Power & Consolidation22:38 Global South activism & the myth that “they can’t modernize”28:19 Borders, stolen land & rethinking indigeneity and migration30:46 What is YuVoice? Building a healthier, impact-rewarding social platform32:24 The Sentinel: citizen journalism, no ads, no paywalls, global perspectives37:21 Escaping doomscrolling: joy, community, boundaries & anti-addictive tech40:34 Where to follow, platform burnout & final call to find your purposeFollow Isvari on LinkedIn, check out The Sentinel, and follow along with YuVoice!Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Exploring Change and Manifestation with Megan SeneseIn this episode of Women Making Moves, host Amy Pons talks to Megan Senese, co-founder of Stage, a women-owned business development and marketing boutique. Megan shares her journey from leaving a high-paying law job to starting her own company with just $3,000. Megan also discusses her experience with manifestation, using a 'want circle' to visualize her goals, and emphasizes the importance of aligning personal energy with desires to manifest intentions effectively. Furthermore, the episode touches on the challenges and systemic issues faced by lawyers and nurses, and the significance of maintaining one's well-being. The conversation concludes with Megan highlighting Stage's focus on creating authentic, balanced, and meaningful connections for lawyers looking to develop their business sustainably.00:00 Introduction to Women Making Moves00:19 Meet Megan Senese: From Big Law to Boutique Business00:48 Texas Bar Association Changes01:35 Megan's Career Journey and Personal Growth03:58 The Power of Manifestation04:45 The 'I Want' Circle Exercise07:38 Aligning Goals with Personal Truth12:50 Challenges in the Legal and Healthcare Systems15:47 Creating a Balanced Life and Career20:35 The Role of Energy and Intuition23:50 Stage's 2026 Vision and Values27:28 Supporting Lawyers and Legal Marketers29:45 Closing Thoughts on Magic and ManifestationFind Megan on LinkedIn and through her podcast, "So Much to Say".Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn. Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Nicole Beach: From Corporate Leader to Jewelry EntrepreneurIn this episode of Women Making Moves, host Amy Pons welcomes Nicole Beach, a seasoned corporate leader turned entrepreneur. Nicole shares her journey from managing large-scale property operations to founding Loop Strand, a luxury permanent jewelry brand in Chicago. The conversation delves into the concept of 'effortless luxury,' the trend of permanent jewelry, and the challenges and joys of transitioning to entrepreneurship. Nicole also offers insights on trusting your intuition, the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone, and how to handle self-doubt and unsolicited advice from others. This episode is an inspiring testament to betting on yourself and finding passion in unexpected places.00:00 Introduction to Women Making Moves00:18 Meet Nicole Beach: From Corporate Leader to Entrepreneur01:24 The Concept of Effortless Luxury02:14 The Journey to Permanent Jewelry05:02 The Rise of Permanent Jewelry07:51 The Art and Business of Permanent Jewelry12:19 Embracing New Opportunities and Challenges14:56 The Path to Entrepreneurship18:33 Facing Uncertainty in Business19:08 Balancing Dreams and Reality19:52 Trusting Yourself and Your Path20:34 The Journey of Entrepreneurship21:12 Maintaining Discipline and Creativity22:08 Reflecting on Career Changes25:02 Embracing Free Will and Destiny27:13 Learning from Experiences31:12 Following Your Intuition33:37 Encouragement and Support36:32 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationSupport Nicole and find the next pop up shop at https://loopstrand.com and follow along on Instagram and LinkedIn @loopstrandjewelryThank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Empowering Digital Autonomy and Intersectional Equity in the Age of AIIn this episode of Women Making Moves, host Amy Pons speaks with Yvonne Jackson, a change management talent and AI strategy advisor with a significant background in big corporations like Apple and Whirlpool. Yvonne discusses her transition from corporate to developing ethical digital engagement frameworks. They delve into the intricacies of Agile versus Kanban methodologies, the importance of addressing technical debt early, and the pivotal role of intersectionality in equity conversations. Yvonne emphasizes the need for organizations to redesign their processes and systems to support true diversity, equity, and inclusion. Additionally, she introduces her framework 'Eden'—Ethical Digital Engagement Norms—as a pragmatic blueprint for engaging ethically in the digital age. Throughout the conversation, the critical importance of addressing intersectional identities in AI algorithms is underscored, along with a call to action for everyone to reflect deeply on their engagement practices to foster genuine equity and inclusion.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:50 Yvonne's Career Journey and Agile Methodology02:52 Challenges in Technology and AI Integration07:23 Intersectionality and Gender in the Workplace15:40 Historical Context and Feminism19:45 Systemic Issues and DEI22:13 Creating Systems for Equity22:33 The Power of Petitions23:02 Target's DEI Dilemma23:34 Building Our Own Ecosystems23:59 The Importance of Digital Autonomy24:13 Challenges in DEI Implementation25:54 The Cost of Ignoring DEI28:56 AI and Intersectionality33:35 Ethical Digital Engagement42:00 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionVisit Yvonne on her business website, personal website, and check out her strategic AI planning project (in beta), and be sure to follow her on LinkedIn.Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Pioneering Women's Health: From International Aid to Hormone Therapy AdvocacyIn this episode of Women Making Moves, host Amy Pons converses with Elizabeth Kelly, a seasoned nurse practitioner passionate about holistic healthcare. Elizabeth shares her journey from working in intensive care units in Chicago to providing international aid and her deep commitment to improving access to mental health care in underserved populations. She highlights the critical importance of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women and discusses the recent FDA removal of the black box warning on HRT medications. Elizabeth also addresses the alarming Department of Education decision to downgrade nursing and other female-dominated professions' status, potentially reducing access to federal funding and impacting women's upward mobility in these fields. The episode offers insights into the systemic challenges women face in healthcare and the importance of interdisciplinary and compassionate approaches to patient care.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:20 Elizabeth's Journey in Healthcare01:05 Mental Health Challenges and Holistic Care03:24 Personal Stories and Healthcare Gaps05:06 The Importance of Holistic Approaches06:00 Generational Trauma and Mental Health14:09 Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Insights20:39 Recognizing Women's Health Issues22:07 Challenges in Prescribing HRT23:07 Historical Neglect of Women's Health23:57 Black Box Warnings and Opiate Crisis25:26 Impact of Education Policy Changes27:32 Financial Barriers in Female-Dominated Professions36:54 Encouragement for Aspiring Nurses39:14 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationFollow and support Elizabeth on Instagram and Facebook @stayinyourcortex and visit her at Ardent Counseling Center Oak Brook https://ardentcenter.com/team-member/elizabeth-kelly/Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Victoria Carrington Chavez on The Power of Storytelling and HealingIn this episode of 'Women Making Moves,' host Amy Pons interviews the dynamic Victoria Carrington Chavez, a storytelling expert and award-winning entrepreneur.Together, they delve into the intricacies of owning and sharing one's story, the healing power of narrative, and the importance of embracing one's unique journey. Victoria shares her insights on overcoming victimhood and villainization, holding space for complexity, and the balance of love and power.Their conversation also touches on ancestral wounds, sovereignty in entrepreneurship, and the transformative energy shifts happening in the world. Listeners are encouraged to own their story with unapologetic boldness and to find peace and empowerment through storytelling.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:40 The Power of Storytelling01:43 Personal Stories and Healing02:18 Embracing Complexity and Healing03:22 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:34 The Role of Ancestry and Lineage09:09 Releasing and Reclaiming Power13:06 Navigating Emotions and Choices19:17 Understanding Multidimensionality20:24 Understanding Archetypes and Astrology20:41 The Heroine's Journey and Self-Exploration21:41 Corporate Life to Coaching: A Personal Journey22:20 Ancestral Wisdom and Breaking Cycles23:02 Embracing Your Unique Brilliance27:03 The Power of Authenticity on Social Media33:15 Navigating Systemic Changes and Personal Growth35:19 Finding Peace in Times of Change36:26 Connecting and Supporting Each OtherFollow Victoria on Instagram and TikTok @victoriasharesstories; visit her website or book a story pour with V! You can also find her on LinkedIn.Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.

Emily Kapszukiewicz on Advocacy, Healthcare Reform, and Pursuing PassionIn this episode of Women Making Moves, host Amy Pons interviews Emily Kapszukiewicz, the CEO and founder of Squirrel Space, AL Therapy, and KAPS consulting. Emily shares her extensive experience in strategy, innovation, and mental wellness, and discusses how her neurodivergence has inspired her advocacy work. They delve into the role of feminine energy in leadership, the importance of intuition, and the systemic changes needed in healthcare and venture capital. Emily also talks about her ongoing lawsuit challenging the SEC on income and wealth restrictions in venture capital fundraising, emphasizing the importance of community, courage, and authenticity in creating meaningful change.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:22 Emily's Background and Accomplishments02:09 Discussing Squirrel Space and Neurodivergence03:08 Life in Portland and Personal Interests03:42 Corporate Experiences and Leadership Challenges05:05 Navigating Corporate World and Founding Squirrel Space06:01 Recovery and Personal Well-being06:30 Challenges in Healthcare and Advocacy09:35 Energy Management and Personal Growth19:31 Cycles of Growth and Future Plans22:39 Finding Inner Trust and Meaning23:24 The Power of Conversations and Connections24:33 Embracing Uncertainty and Change30:49 Living Authentically and Intuitively33:39 Launching Squirrel Space and Venture Fund38:39 Challenging SEC Regulations45:32 Final Thoughts and GratitudeFind Emily at Kaps Consulting, Squirrel Space, and follow on LinkedIn.Thank you for tuning in to Women Making Moves, be sure to rate and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram and Bluesky. Visit Amy at Unlock the Magic, and follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.Women Making Moves is for personal use only and general information purposes, the show host cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statements from guests or the sufficiency of the information. This show and host is not liable for any personal actions taken.