"Office Hours" #8: Oh, How I Love Being a Woman!
Hi friends,
It’s International Women’s Day! Before we dive into the meat of this newsletter, let’s get one thing straight: International Women’s Day is not a party holiday, if you will. It’s not about selling T-shirts or witty coffee mugs. Since the early 1900s, International Women’s Day has, instead, been intended to protest against and raise awareness about the fact that people are still being oppressed or otherwise treated differently simply because of their gender identity. This is particularly true when it comes to women of color, transgender women and queer women, who have long been the subjects of more harmful, consistent injustice than their white, cisgender counterparts.
But just because we have our work cut out for us doesn’t mean we can’t also acknowledge how far we’ve come, and honor all those who have helped advance our progress thus far.
There are so, so many ways to go about observing International Women’s Day (and Women’s History Month, even) that strike that balance, and that we hope we prioritize all year long. Take a virtual museum tour! (The National Women’s History Museum is a great place to start.) Donate to organizations in your community that support women and girls! Prevent gender-based violence by taking a bystander intervention training! By learning more about and amplifying the experiences of all women, we can get closer to the roots of International Women’s Day — today and every day.
Which is why here at JBC, we’ve tasked our team with highlighting those women who inspire us to do better, live bolder and advocate more fiercely.
Read on!
Jenny & Melissa
Jenny Meyer (Founder): “ Gloria Steinem has devoted her entire life to activism. From Ms. Magazine to her current work around Roe vs. Wade, she has never stopped championing women’s rights. This is one of the most monumental times in history to talk about gender equity, and I’m so grateful Gloria Steinem is still out there leading the charge.”
Yasmeen Ahmed (Senior Director, Executive Speaking): “ Benazir Bhutto is a historical woman that inspires me, particularly as a Pakistani-American and Muslim. Many of the aspects associated with our culture and religion can feel misogynistic, but there are a ton of stories about powerful women from these cultures that have simply been overlooked. Benazir was a Pakistani politician who served as prime minister of Pakistan. She was the first woman elected to head a democratic government in a Muslim-majority country, and while she faced incredible obstacles, she never gave up on what she believed in.”
Libbey Baumgarten (Executive Vice President, Social Impact, Health & Wellness + Head of Growth): “There are so many women throughout history who inspire me. But truly, I feel inspired by so many of the female leaders today like Carolyn Witte, Reshma Saujani, Jacinda Ardern and Anu Duggal who are working and fighting to change the conversation around and create a better world for women through leadership, healthcare and women’s rights.”
Ilana Dvir (Senior Vice President, Lifestyle + Head of Strategy): “As someone who loves the media industry, I’ve always admired the tenacity and power of Barbara Walters. She was a true trailblazer in media and television, paving the way for female journalists and media professionals alike. She was never afraid to ask the hard questions, confront injustice and bring attention to the stories that needed to be told. Watching her was always a master class in media, and her legacy will certainly live on in all of our work.”
Christina Song (Associate Vice President, Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “In 1963, Marsha P. Johnson moved to New York with $15 and a bag of clothes. A self-identified “drag queen, transvestite and gay person,” friends and historians today describe her as a trans woman, a term that wasn’t commonly used or understood at the time. Marsha worked as a sex worker and activist at the forefront of the gay liberation movement and was a central figure in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. Today, Johnson is celebrated as a hero in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in America, and as someone whose commitment to challenging injustice to fight for a better world inspires millions of people.”
Steph Davis (Chief of Staff): “ Have you ever said your computer has a bug? We have trailblazing computer scientist Grace Hopper to thank for coining that term, among many other achievements, including designing computer programming languages, teaching mathematics at Vassar College and serving as rear admiral in the U.S. Navy. She overcame many hurdles and rejections for being a woman excelling in a man’s world, leaving behind a rich legacy and posthumously being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.”
Jenna Toder (Vice President, Executive Speaking): “ Growing up playing tennis, I was always a huge fan of Serena Williams both on and off the court. She will be remembered as one of the greatest athletes of all time, but her greatest legacy is how she used her platform and success to change the lives of women, particularly Black women. In a male-dominated field, she broke down barriers and inspired more diversity within sports and beyond. She is a philanthropist, an advocate for body positivity and an overall inspiration and role model. A true icon.”
Blair Dawson (Associate Vice President, Food & Beverage): “My ultimate role model is a 20-year-old: Greta Thunberg. The climate crisis is the greatest challenge any generation has ever met, and a woman like her standing up both in words and in action is as inspiring as it gets.”
Sara Ganus (Vice President, Fashion): “ There are few people in this world who have overcome more adversity than Oprah Winfrey. Yes, of course she’s the epitome of success and the so-called ‘American Dream,’ but beyond that, she has defied cultural and gender barriers while dedicating her life to uplifting and improving the lives of others. To me, she embodies sheer determination, courage and strength, and has always been one of the most inspiring women of the 20th century and beyond.”
Maura Brannigan (Head of Content): “Back in 2021, local lawmaker Robin Rue Simmons got my suburban Chicago hometown on the national map after leading the passage of the city’s reparations initiative. Under her leadership, Evanston became the first American city to approve a government-funded compensation program intended to address historical racism and discrimination. Robin has since left office and founded a nonprofit organization, called FirstRepair, which ‘informs local reparations, nationally.’ I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn from her, and look forward to seeing the ways in which she and her example help to usher in similar policies across other parts of the country.”
Ellie McGarvey (Manager, Executive Speaking): “ As the first Black women to be elected to the U.S. Congress, Shirley Chisholm introduced more than 50 pieces of legislation and championed racial and gender equality throughout her time as a congresswoman, which, of course, we are still striving towards today. Let’s not forget her iconic quote, ‘I am and always will be a catalyst for change.’ ”
Charlotte Hohorst (Associate Vice President, Design & Sustainability): “For me, Dolly Parton represents everything that is good in this world. She famously once said, ‘If you see someone without a smile, give them yours.’ She’s the ultimate role model for how to exercise that belief and practice through her philanthropic endeavors, the business opportunities she creates for her community and the ways in which she treats everyone she meets. Another favorite Dolly quote is, ‘Find out who you are and do it on purpose.’ How inspiring is that?!”
Lorena Mendez (Coordinator, Food & Beverage): “ Frida Kahlo accomplished so much during her life. Not only were her politics incredibly controversial, she survived and painted during years of incredible physical pain. Despite suffering from a severe spine injury, she continued to create art whenever she was physically able. Her art is very little reason as to why I admire her, though: Her incredible passion for her far-left politics and love for her culture is the reason why she is an incredible force until this day, and a woman who will always inspire me.”
Amanda Reuben (Director, Fashion): “A staunch advocate for refugees, Emma Lazarus was a Jewish author and activist ahead of her time in the 1880s. Her poem ‘The New Colossus’ is inscribed in the base of the Statue of Liberty and is as significant and relevant today as it was nearly 150 years ago.”
Kara Riehl (Associate Manager, Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “ Jane Austen left behind a legacy that is still taught, imitated and loved throughout the world. She was one of the first writers to introduce a new style of writing that has inspired generations of writers (and readers). In a time where women were taught to be devoid of opinions, not only did she provide commentary on important social topics through her works, but she did so as a woman.”
Anna Pacilio (Associate Vice President Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “ Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is a legal force and change-maker, becoming the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court. For centuries, the white male experience has guided our laws and policies in the United States. It has defined our democracy. And this remarkable lack of diversity has led to a government that’s failed to recognize, reflect or represent the people whose perspectives and contributions make this nation special. Justice Jackson represents our progress as we continue to strive for equality and equity in our systems and that Black women finally be a part of these monumental legal decisions.”
Berkley Cohn (Director, Lifestyle): “ Megan Rapinoe has not only accomplished incredible feats on the soccer field, but she has also been a driving force behind the women’s equal pay movement, both within professional soccer and beyond. Megan led a legal battle that spanned almost six years with the U.S. Soccer Federation, resulting in a historic collective bargaining agreement just last year. In addition to serving as a leading voice in the equal pay movement, Megan has also been outspoken in her support of Colin Kaepernick and the Black Lives Matter movement.”
Amanda Gibson (Manager, Design & Sustainability): “ Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a true leader for women’s rights and created change in a way that helped uplift those around her and inspire those to join her in the fight. ‘Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.’ ”
Ali Chetkof (Associate Vice President, Fashion): “ Michelle Obama leads her life with grace, dignity, humor and authenticity. While she led several meaningful initiatives during her time at the White House, such as fighting childhood obesity, it’s her openness to discussing difficult issues — and not simply pretending that everything is perfect — that continues to inspire me.”
Ella Conte (Associate Manager, Food & Beverage): “Growing up dancing, I admired the strength, grace and dedication of the ballerinas I saw on stage. Misty Copeland became the first Black woman to be promoted to principal dancer at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre and continues to inspire me to this day.”
Lisa Guastella (Senior Director, Beauty, Health & Wellness): “ Princess Diana truly succeeded in making the world a better place, most notably through her work on behalf of children and people with HIV/Aids. She gave her voice and her platform wholly to the people. And even more than that, I admire her for the mother that she was, and for her steadfast devotion to her sons amidst the many challenges and tribulations she went through in her life.”
Daniela DiLeo (Manager, Food & Beverage): “Betty White’s soul was, without a doubt, full of compassion, love and laughter. Betty’s ongoing positivity not only became an instant comfort growing up, but encouraged me to evoke the same presence in all aspects of life. A favorite quote of mine from Betty is, ‘Everybody needs a passion. That’s what keeps life interesting. If you live without passion, you can go through life without leaving any footprints.’ ”
Emily Tschirhart (Vice President, Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “We’re seeing headlines about women leaving positions of power, but the first to surprise me was Jacinda Arden. While it shocked many, I remember seeing the news and just thinking, ‘Good for her, and good for women.’ She is an excellent example of women learning that they can say no to burnout. Even your life’s work can be something to reconsider when it comes to protecting your mental health and your happiness. I have long admired Jacinda, but this step she took will be one of the most amazing moves that set a precedent for all leaders to make room for new and energized voices in leadership.”
Catie Currie (Coordinator, Design & Sustainability): “ Ashley Graham has been an outspoken figure within the modeling and fashion industries for ‘plus-sized’ women for nearly a decade. As the first ‘plus-sized’ model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated , in Vogue , and so many more, Ashley Graham has dedicated her platform to talking about body positivity and acceptance, creating a well-known TED Talk and a memoir advocating for the subject.”
Alice Dolton (Director, Fashion): “ Known for her work as an actress over the past 60-plus years, Jane Fonda ‘s perhaps lesser-known role has been as an activist throughout her lifetime. Her dedication to the climate crisis in recent years, in particular, has been inspiring. From using her voice and clout for Greenpeace’s Fire Drill Fridays to campaigning for the U.N.’s new oceans treaty, she has continued to push better the planet for future generations.
Bella Nickel (Office Manager): “ Jessica Alba founded The Honest Company over 10 years ago with the goal of developing baby products with clean and safe ingredients that are also sustainable for the environment. In anticipation of my older sister’s first child due in the fall, I am inspired by Jessica’s dedication to create honestly baby- and environmentally-safe products for families just like mine. As Jessica notes on her company’s website, ‘Health and wellness are a universal foundation for a life well-lived’ and it’s our responsibility to leave the world better than when we found it.’ ”
Kate Traina (Associate Manager, Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “ Dr. Jane Goodall redefined conservation with an approach that recognizes the role people play in the well-being of wildlife. She has completely reframed the relationship between animals and humans, as we co-exist on this planet together. Her trailblazing research has inspired other women to enter the traditionally male-dominated world of primatology. The script has been flipped, with women now leading the field.”
Katie Samuels (Director of Affiliate Marketing): “ Rihanna continues to be an inspirational leader, and never apologizes for being true to herself. She spreads body positively and is inclusive to all. As a successful Black woman, she has empowered women through her music, fashion and beauty, as well as her philanthropic efforts. Any woman who is pregnant, trains and performs for the Super Bowl Halftime Show deserves all the praise!”
Almira Metović (Executive Assistant): “From a young age, Malala Yousafzai was determined to have every right a boy would. At 11 years old, the Taliban invaded her town and she was forced to leave her life behind, but even that didn’t stop her from receiving an education. In 2012, she began speaking out publicly on the behalf of young women, and in October of that year, she was shot on the left side of her face. After multiple surgeries and rehabilitation, it only made her stronger, going onto study philosophy, politics and economics at Oxford University. She also created the Malala Fund, where everyday is a fight to ensure girls all around the world receive not only free education, but a safe one, as well. Malala represents strength, freedom and so much more.”
Katherine Chavez (Coordinator, Fashion): “ Maya Angelou was an amazing writer that left a significant mark in the world. She passionately defended women’s rights and was a civil rights activist who used her words to make a difference. Despite the adversities she faced in her life, she still became extremely successful, never abandoning her fight against social and racial injustices. To this day, she remains an inspiration to all women and is a reminder to continue fighting for what’s right.”
Manuela Uscher (Coordinator, Fashion): “Ruth Bader Ginsburg has left her mark both on the world and in my life, personally, due to her lifetime flourishing in the face of adversity. She was a pioneer for gender equality, battled sexism in her own life and career and has inspired many generations of women to break through the enduring gender barriers. Her legacy and personal integrity inspires me each and every day.”
Dana Burkett (HR Manager): “ Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, Nina Simone as she was known professionally was an American singer, songwriter, pianist and civil rights activist. Her music spanned styles including classical, folk, gospel, blues, jazz, R&B and pop. Simone’s social commentary was not limited to the civil rights movement; the song “Four Women” exposed the Eurocentric appearance standards imposed on Black women in America, as it explored the internalized dilemma of beauty that is experienced between four Black women with skin tones ranging from light to dark. She explains in her autobiography ‘I Put a Spell on You,’ that the purpose of the song was to inspire Black women to define beauty and identity for themselves without the influence of societal impositions.”
Alex Jacobson (Coordinator, Social Content & Executive Speaking): “For obvious reasons, Princess Diana is such an inspiration to me. She dedicated her time to charity and believed in participating and forming relationships, rather than just writing a check. And I can’t forget to add how much of a fashion inspiration she is for me and so many others to this day!”
Faye Piscopo (Coordinator, Fashion): “ Betty White is a female icon in the entertainment industry who broke barriers for women in many ways — all while being kind, humorous and a badass. She was one of the first female producers in Hollywood, as well as the oldest person to host Saturday Night Live and to have been nominated for an Emmy. A true legend and superstar that will forever be missed!”
Chloe Gillespie (Associate Manager, Food & Beverage): “While definitely an obvious choice, Michelle Obama has never ceased to amaze me with her grace, humility and leadership. She is the epitome of a role model and has continually used her platform and position of power for good. I’m constantly impressed by her beautiful way with words.”
Katie Strickland (Coordinator, Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “ Vivienne Westwood left her mark on the world as a fashion designer and activist, known not only for her punk-inspired collections, but also for using her designs to raise awareness of environmental and human rights issues. Her fashion shows regularly sent models down the runway demonstrating with signs, reading poems or giving powerful speeches.”
Nina Bral (Director, Fashion): “ Growing up a dancer, specifically passionate about ballet, I’ve always admired Anna Pavlova , Russian prima ballerina of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Anna was a principal dancer of the Imperial Russian Ballet, and although classical ballet didn’t come easy to her during her training years, she grew to be one of the most prolific dancers in ballet history, most known for her creation of the role The Dying Swan.”
Megan Rupp (Senior Vice President, Beauty, Health & Wellness): “My childhood dream was to grow up to be Barbara Walters. I definitely didn’t achieve that (ha!), but I did find a passion for storytelling that has stuck with me from my days in editorial to my professional trajectory in PR — and is also very much with me in the way I interview the subjects of the novel I am working on in my spare time. She had an uncanny ability to pull out honesty, vulnerability and a bit of humor from those she interviewed in a way that made the stories she worked to tell compelling and relatable to the masses. As a trailblazer for the female journalists who followed in her footsteps, she asked the questions others wouldn’t dare — and even some infamously unique ones, like that which she posed to Katharine Hepburn, that will forever live on in memory.”
Daria Martorana (Associate Director, Social Impact, Health & Wellness): “ Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg , the incredible duo behind theSkimm, have fundamentally changed the way news is consumed. theSkimm’s media platform and impact initiatives reach women beyond their inboxes by helping us break down information that we need to know to navigate through life — from finances and mental health to politics and more. I admire how Carly and Danielle can intimately relate to the issues today’s women are facing, which has made all the difference in their ability to play against the traditional media playbook and empower millions of women to take control of their lives.”
Andrea Baule (Coordinator, Design & Sustainability): “ Oprah Winfrey is a pioneer of the women’s empowerment movement and has been an inspiration to women across the globe. Her willingness to help others and to be sure others are guided in a positive light shows how much passion she has to see the greater good in those around her. The Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation has worked for over 30 years to provide quality education to girls across the world.”
Kate Carnemark (Affiliate Marketing Coordinator): “Princess Diana used her fame to promote kindness through charitable efforts. Throughout her lifetime, she supported causes from mental health and illnesses to domestic violence and the homeless. She inspired many young women, including myself, about the importance of philanthropy.”
We continued this conversation with a deeper look at how motherhood fuels our work as agency leaders and advocates.