Utah Women & Leadership Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dr. Susan R. Madsen
The mission of the Utah Women & Leadership Project is to strengthen the impact of Utah girls and women. We serve Utah and its residents by 1) producing relevant, trustworthy, and applicable research; 2) creating and gathering valuable resources; and 3) convening trainings and events that inform, inspire, and ignite growth and change for all Utahns. We are moving mountains for Utah women! Hosted by Utah State University.
Organizations increasingly thrive when both men and women hold leadership roles and work together. This is true not only in Utah’s businesses, but also its government organizations, such as state legislatures, city councils, and state and local bureaucracies.
American democracy is based on the concept of representation. Governments mirror this idea by encouraging agencies to employ a workforce that shares the demographic characteristics of the community it serves. In fact, the presence of a diverse public workforce “implies equal access to government positions promoting empowerment and connection with government in diverse communities, [and] can also signal the inclusion of group interests, attitudes, and experiences in government decision making and build government legitimacy.” This is true at all levels of government in Utah, including the municipal, county, and state levels.
The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) recently published a research and policy brief "The Status of Women Leaders in Government – Utah Counties: A 2024 Update" which is the topic of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. April Townsend, a UWLP Research Fellow and owner of Townsend Consulting.
Support the show
Research on the importance of implementing flexible and family-friendly policies, programs, and practices in workplaces has been well documented. In fact, there is a clear, direct link between companies that implement these types of strategies and the retention and advancement of women. Fortunately, many Utah companies are taking the lead in offering initiatives and benefits that are making a positive difference in their employees’ lives. Highlighting the best practices of these leading organizations can help all of Utah’s employers better understand how to implement policies and create workplace cultures that support women and families. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) recently published a research and policy brief "100 Companies Championing Women in 2024: Best Practices for Utah Companies" which is the topic of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by two guests, both members of the UWLP team: Kolene Anderson, Associate Director and co-author of the report, and Deborah Lin, Local Outreach & Curriculum Manager who assists with the 100 Companies Championing Women nominations.
Support the show
Unpaid work, including childcare, eldercare, housework, and other tasks, is vitally important to the foundations of strong families, communities, and nations. According to Oxfam, the monetary value of women’s unpaid work is estimated to be $10.8 trillion each year, and women worldwide spend a significantly larger portion of time than men performing this critical work. This happens for many reasons, including personal values and choices, cultural and social norms, unconscious biases, and specific economic and employment considerations. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) recently published a research snapshot about unpaid care work among Utah women in 2024, which is the topic of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by two guests. First, Dr. Kristy Hodson, a UWLP research fellow and the lead author of the research. She is also an instructor in the College of Health Professions at Western Governors University. Second, Lisa Reeves, a co-leader for A Bolder Way Forward’s Home & Family spoke. She is an advocate for women’s issues and is currently doing graduate work at Harvard University.
Support the Show.
Most people have a complicated relationship with their body, with many of us wishing we looked different. Fad diets, intermittent fasting, excessive exercise, weight loss injections, and liposuction abound as we search for perfection. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) recently published a research and policy brief summarizing the findings from a complex study of body image in Utah, which is the topic of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by two guests, both professors in the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University: Dr. Sarah Coyne, Associate Director of the Department and a Professor of Human Development, and Dr. Lauren Barnes, an Associate Clinical Professor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Support the Show.
Sexual harassment has been illegal in the US for decades, and although there has been increased attention to the problem since 1970, the problem continues. All too often it exists in organizations as an issue many do not want to think or talk about. However, it is critical that Utahns work to understand and reduce instances of sexual harassment for the benefit of individuals, institutions, and the entire state. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) recently published a research snapshot on sexual harassment in Utah, which is the topic of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. Maria Blevins, an Associate Professor of Communications at Utah Valley University; and Ariell Hardy, a full-time student at George Mason University pursuing a Master of Professional Studies in Applied Industrial-Organizational Psychology.
Support the Show.
Organizations thrive more abundantly when both men and women hold leadership roles and work together. Gender inclusivity in leadership benefits not only Utah’s businesses but also its government organizations, such as state legislatures, city councils, and state and local bureaucracies. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) recently published a research brief aboutwomen leaders in Utah government, which is the focus of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. April Townsend, a UWLP Research Fellow, and Sophia DiCaro, Senior Advisor and Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Planning & Budget.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is higher education attainment. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Higher Education Attainment. First, Jessica Miller, Senior Network Director for Promise Partnership Utah; and second, Bryn Ramjoue, Marketing Director for my529.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Sexual Harassment & Gender-Based Discrimination. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Sexual Harassment & Gender-Based Discrimination. First, Nancy Sylvester, Labor and Employment Counsel for Management and Training Corporation; second, Amy Morgan, an attorney and community advocate; and finally, Helen Knaggs, Head of Global Research and Development for Nu Skin Enterprises.
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. As part of the survey, there were two open-ended questions regarding the challenges and opportunities facing women in the state. We received nearly 2,500 responses. This episode focuses on the perceived opportunities for Utah women and girls.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. April Townsend, a UWLP Research Fellow and owner of Townsend Consulting.
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. As part of the survey, there were two open-ended questions regarding the challenges and opportunities facing women in the state. We received nearly 2,500 responses. This episode focuses on the 11 major challenges facing Utah women.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. April Townsend, a UWLP Research Fellow and owner of Townsend Consulting.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Organizational Strategies & Workplace Culture. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Organizational Strategies & Workplace Culture. First, Pete Codella, Managing Director of Business Services at Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, and second, Chris Hayes, CEO of Impact Performance Solutions.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is K-12 initiatives. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of K-12 initiatives. First, Deanie Wimmer, a community leader with Promise Partnership Utah and a Utah TV anchor; second, Joann Brown, the Individual Development Commissioner for the Utah PTA; and finally Brittney Cummins, a community advocate who is a former secondary educator, and worked as the Governor’s education advisor.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is home and family. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of home and family. First, Tiffiney Christiansenis a board member for the Utah Marriage Commission, and Vice President of Sales at Leavitt Group. Second, JaLee Clarke, a community advocate who has served in professional leadership roles with strategic initiatives, executives’ advisor, human resources, and advisor relations. And finally, Lisa Reeves, a community advocate and graduate student studying religion and society, with an interest in women’s issues, including women and religion, health sexuality, and mindfulness.
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Shirlayne Quayle (Founder and CEO of Powerlane) to talk about new research findings specifically related to leadership development.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Rachel Cottam (Director of Content for Delivery Solutions and a co-leader for A Bolder Way Forward’s Gender Pay Gap Spoke) to talk about new research findings specifically related to STEM fields and male allyship.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Stephanie Stokes (Community Health Manager at Intermountain Health, and A Bolder Way Forward Co-Leader for the health across the lifespan spoke) to talk about new research findings specifically related to health across the lifespan.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Sui Lang L. Panoke (Bolder Way Forward Champion) to talk about new research findings specifically related to finance and entrepreneurship.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Sui Lang L. Panoke (Bolder Way Forward Champion) to talk about new research findings specifically related to K-12 initiatives and higher education attainment.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Rachel Cottam (Director of Content for Delivery Solutions and a co-leader for A Bolder Way Forward’s Gender Pay Gap Spoke) to talk about new research findings specifically related to organizational strategies and workforce development.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Erin Jemison (Director of Public Policy for the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition) to talk about new research findings specifically related to domestic violence and sexual assault.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is childcare and pre-K programs. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of childcare and pre-K programs. First, Jill Koziol is Co-Founder and CEO of Motherly. Second, Keri Newman Allred is the Executive Director of Rural Utah Child Development. Third, Elizabeth Garbe is Vice President of Public Policy for the United Way of Salt Lake.
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Peggy Green (Program Manager for the Homeless Systems Coordination Team) to talk about new research findings specifically related to poverty and homelessness and home and family.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Kolene Anderson (Associate Director of the UWLP) to talk about new research findings specifically related to child sexual abuse and sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
Although Utah has a rich heritage of women’s involvement in voting, advocacy, and various types of political participation, for decades Utah has lagged the nation in terms of women running for and serving in elected political roles. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) began reporting on the status of women in Utah politics in 2014, with updates in 2017, 2021, 2022, 2023, and now 2024. Although strides have been made to increase the number of women serving in political roles in the last decade, there is still work to do. This episode will focus on the status of women in Utah politics in 2024.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by two guests: First, Tami Tran, Mayor of Kaysville. Her political career started by serving on the Planning Commission because of her interest in development lending. She has served on the Kaysville City Council, and in 2021 was elected as Mayor. Second, Morgan Lyon Cotti, the Associate Director of The Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah. Her interest in politics began when she was 16 and served as a Page in the U.S. Senate.
Support the Show.
This past fall, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline of public perceptions of the awareness, understanding, and attitudes regarding the challenges of Utah women and girls. For this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen (Founding Director of the UWLP), is joined by Rachel Cottam (Director of Content for Delivery Solutions and a co-leader for A Bolder Way Forward’s Gender Pay Gap Spoke) to talk about new research findings specifically related to the gender pay gap and childcare.
Overall, the survey focused on five areas: education, community engagement, safety and security, health and well-being, and the workplace. The 80-question survey provided baseline data needed by leaders of A Bolder Way Forward. Listen to this conversation related to where Utahns are at with regard to pressing questions!
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Health Across the Lifespan. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Health Across the Lifespan. First, Dr. Audrey Jiricko, an OB/GYN and Associate Medical Director of Women’s Health at Intermountain Health. Second, Erika Lindley, Administrative Director for University of Utah Healthcare, Women’s and Children’s, OB/GYN School of Medicine.
Support the Show.
The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP), in partnership with scholars from around the state, recently published a research synopsis about the status and experiences of women in Utah. Utah continues to be lauded for its numerous rankings for its economy, generosity, fiscal responsibility, and access to quality higher education, among others. At the same time, our research found there are vast differences in the way that some experience Utah’s economic success, leadership opportunities, and even safety and belonging. The research is focused on five areas -- community engagement, education, health and wellbeing, safety and security, and workplace – and provides data on Utah women’s lived experiences. The report is the topic of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Kolene Anderson, the Associate Director of the UWLP, and co-author of the report.
Support the Show.
Since 1950, women ages 16 and older in Utah have increased their labor force participation from 24.5% to 60.7%. This is slightly higher than the overall labor force participation rate of US women, which is 56.1%. Numerous factors influence Utah women’s participation in the labor force, such as accessing affordable, quality childcare, and occupational segregation in lower-paying industries.
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) published an update on the status of Utah women in the labor force in 2023, which is the topic of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Robbyn Scribner, a women’s labor force expert, consultant, and career coach.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) first published a research snapshot about childcare five years ago. Since then, because of continued market failures and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the status of childcare in the US and Utah reached a crisis level. These circumstances exacerbated the financial challenges of childcare business owners and their employees and heightened the obstacles of parents trying to work. Federal agencies provided funding support during the pandemic, helping many childcare businesses stay open. However, it is predicted that by June 2024, Utah will deplete approximately $573 million of COVID-era support that has helped keep the childcare sector afloat. This “funding cliff” may result in childcare program closures, higher costs of childcare for families, and a dramatic workforce turnover because of lowered wages in the childcare sector. Addressing the ongoing childcare crisis in Utah is critical. Utah has the highest percentage of children of any state population—at about 30.0%—and an estimated 64.1% of Utah families have all available parents working.
Recently, the UWLP published an update on the status of childcare in Utah in 2023, which is the topic of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Robyn Blackburn, a UWLP Research Fellow and an author of our most recent childcare research. Second, Jill Koziol, Co-Founder and CEO of Motherly, the leading digital destination empowering mothers to thrive.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is STEM Fields. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of STEM Fields. First, Aimee Edwards, Executive Director of BioHive, and second, Cydni Tetro, Co-Founder and President of the Women Tech Council.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Entrepreneurship. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Entrepreneurship. First, Ann Marie Wallace is the State Director of the Women’s Business Center of Utah. Second, Tara Spalding, former CEO at Kinect Capital, a Utah-based non-profit organization that assists, coaches, and provides mentoring to entrepreneurs who are raising investment capital.
Support the show
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Political Representation, Boards and Commissions, & Civic Engagement/Advocacy. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Political Representation, Boards and Commissions, & Civic Engagement/Advocacy. First, Becki Wright, Founder & CEO of Proximity and a board member of Utah Women Run; Nina Barnes, a board member of Utah Women Run and The Policy Project; and Luna Banuri, founding board member and executive director of the Utah Muslim Civic League.
Support the Show.
Research shows that organizations will increasingly thrive when both men and women hold leadership roles. Gender inclusivity benefits not only businesses, but also entities such as churches, state legislatures, city councils, state governments, and state and local boards and commissions. Research demonstrates the need for the government—and democratic governance processes in general—to reflect gender diversity accurately within its constituency at all levels. Utah is no exception. In fact, in Utah (Code 67-1-11), since 1992, appointing authorities were supposed to “strongly consider nominating, appointing, or reappointing a qualified individual whose gender is in the minority” on state boards and commissions. Yet, not until recently has this become a priority. In 2016 and 2019, the Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) published research and policy briefs focused on analyzing the gender composition of Utah state boards and commissions. Recently, the UWLP published an update on the status of women on Utah state boards and commissions in 2023, which is the topic of this episode.
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Brooke Scheffler, Director of Boards and Commissions for Utah State Government; and Nina Barnes, a community champion and advocate for education, politics, and empowering underserved populations, and a board member of Utah Women Run.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Domestic Violence. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Domestic Violence. First, Sierra Holmes, Programs Director at Fight Against Domestic Violence; and Erin Jemison, Director of Public Policy at the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Poverty & Homelessness. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Poverty & Homelessness. First, Karen McCandless, CEO of Community Action Services and Food Bank in Provo, and Peggy Green, Program Manager for the Utah Office of Homeless Services.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Finance. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Finance. First, Melanie Jewkes, an Extension professor for Utah State University; Susan Speirs, CEO of the Utah Association of CPAs; and Brittany Griffin, Policy & Communications Deputy at the Utah Treasurer’s Office.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Sexual Assault. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Sexual Assault. First, Liliana Olvera-Arbon, the Executive Director of the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault; Bethany Crisp, the Systems Director for the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault; and Gary Scheller, the Director of the Utah Office for Victims of Crime.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Workforce Development. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Workforce Development. First, Robbyn Scribner, co-founder of Tech-Moms, and Kathryn Thomas, Executive Director of People Helping People.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Leadership Development. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Leadership Development. First, Shirlayne Quayle, co-founder of the Women’s Influence Network; and Jamie Shaw, Operations Director at Event Knowledge Services.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is the Gender Pay Gap. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the three leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of the Gender Pay Gap. First, Katie Witt, a Community Advocate; Rachel Cottam, Head of Content at Lexion; and Deneiva Knight, External Affairs Director for Comcast.
Support the Show.
A Bolder Way Forward is a statewide movement that is bringing together businesses, organizations, and individuals who are either already doing related work around women and girls or are ready to get engaged and lean into the work. If we are serious about ensuring that Utah women, girls, and their families better thrive, we need to create positive change much faster. A Bolder Way Forward leaders are working together to accomplish bold goals in 18 critical areas that require societal change, and one of these is Child Sexual Abuse. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the three leaders who are heading up the area—called spokes in the Wheel of Change— of Child Sexual Abuse. First, Laurieann Thorpe, Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Utah; Chris Yadon, Managing Director of Saprea; and Jake Neeley, Director of the Malouf Foundation.
Support the Show.
A single mother is a primary caregiver of one or more dependent children and identifies as separated, widowed, divorced, or never married. According to Utah data, there were 70,647 single-parent families with children in 2021; of these, 69.2% were headed by single mothers. Being a single parent can present specific challenges for the parent as well as their children. Given that most single-parent households in the US and Utah are headed by women, understanding the unique needs of single mothers nationally and within Utah is an essential step in tailoring programs to help women thrive. This episode highlights a Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) research snapshot about single mothers in Utah. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Kristy Hodson, a professor of Professional Communication & Leadership at Western Governors University, and Kathryn Thomas, executive director of People Helping People, a nonprofit that assists low-income women and single mothers.
Support the Show.
In 2022, the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, the Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP), and the Cox–Henderson Administration partnered to launch a one-year initiative titled 100 Companies Championing Women, which is the topic of this episode. It was part of the Inspire InUtah campaign’s mandate to support women in the workplace at all levels, including entrepreneurs -- specifically, the 100 highlighted businesses around the state that have incorporated family-friendly policies and practices and have implemented programs that improve recruiting, hiring, retaining, and advancing women employees and leaders. The overarching goal was to provide resources for women companies that facilitate success now and in the future. Hundreds of Utah companies and organizations submitted their nominations and the top 100 were selected. The UWLP then completed research of the 100 companies’ best practices for women in the workplace. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Nubia Peña, the Director for the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs, and Kori Ann Edwards, the Managing Director at the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity.
Support the show
National and statewide studies continue to show that women and girls in Utah are not thriving in critical areas. Year after year, Utah continues to have high levels of domestic violence, sexual assault, child sexual abuse, and gender-based discrimination, while also ranking as the worst state for women’s equality and having low levels of women’s leadership representation in nearly all domains, including politics and business. Although the needle has moved slightly in a few areas, with its current trajectory it will take two, three, or even four decades to make notable progress. It is time for Utah to embrace A Bolder Way Forward (BWF), a new statewide movement, and the topic of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Nubia Peña, the Director for the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs; and Sui Lang Panoke, the Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion at Zions Bank.
Support the show
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States (US) and the leading cause of cancer death for women in the state of Utah. One in eight women in the US will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Mammography has been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality and thus is a critical screening tool that can increase the chance of early detection and treatment. This episode highlights a Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) research snapshot that charts current Utah mammography rates and discusses mammography more generally. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. Sarah Colonna, a physician with the Center for Excellence in Women’s Health, Huntsman Cancer Institute, and Marie Nagata, Program Manager for the Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program for the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
Support the show
Utah has one of the highest economic growth rates in the nation, and the ability to attract, retain, and provide positive workplace environments for women will be critical for future growth and success. However, Utah ranks as one of the worst states for women’s equality in many areas, including wages, education, health, and political empowerment. It is critical to understand what obstacles stand in the way of closing gender gaps so that Utah’s workforce and economy can thrive and meet its potential. One set of obstacles relates to “gender bias,” a term used to describe various barriers embedded in workplace cultures that disadvantage women, either overtly (e.g., harassment) or covertly (e.g., policies that inadvertently benefit men more than women).
This episode highlights a Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) research and policy brief about gender bias in the Utah workplace. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. Helen Knaggs, author of the brief and Vice President of Research & Development for Nu Skin Enterprises, and Dr. Emily Swensen Darowski, the Associate Director of the UWLP.
Support the show
Pregnancy, giving birth, and caring for a newborn are challenging. Most mothers naturally experience the “baby blues” during the first two weeks after delivery, when they report feeling anxious, irritable, overwhelmed, or weepy. Usually, these symptoms resolve on their own within two weeks. Some women, however, experience mental health concerns beyond the baby blues, such as postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) is a term used to encompass a range of disorders that can occur during pregnancy or up to one year postpartum. This episode highlights a Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) research snapshot that summarizes data about PMADs in Utah, reviews relevant information for patients and healthcare providers, and aims to raise awareness about this issue so that more women receive appropriate screening and care. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Rachel Denton, a licensed social worker, and Madison Harmer, a graduate research assistant.
Support the show
Fertility—or the ability to conceive and bear children—has impacted women’s lives for millennia. Cultural, social, economic, religious, and personal factors have influenced questions of whether to have a child, when to have a child, how many children to have, and in what context to have them. The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) published a research snapshot to understand trends and changes related to fertility in Utah, which is the topic of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Kaitlyn Pieper, Executive Director of the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion; and Mallory Bateman, Director of Demographic Research and State Data Center Coordinator at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah.
Support the show
Domestic violence (DV) is a serious and widespread issue affecting women and families in Utah. One in three Utah women will experience some form of contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in her lifetime (33.6%), which is close to the national average (37.3%). The Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) examined domestic violence among Utah women in 2017 and recently published an updated 2023 report, which this podcast episode highlights. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Christiana Wagstaff, Victim Advocate at Utah Valley University, and Erin Jemison, Director of Public Policy at the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Weave. Weave is changing how small business can communicate, operate, and grow through an all-on-one platform—one place for every customer interaction. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Brooke Shreeve, Chief People Officer, and Erin Goodsell, Chief Legal Officer.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Northrop Grumman. They design, develop, build, and support some of the world’s most advanced products, from cutting-edge aircraft and next-generation spacecraft to unrivaled cyber security systems and all-seeing radars. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Wendy Williams, Vice President of Propulsion Systems, and Leila Milliken, Sr. Principal Human Resources Business Partner.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights DigiCert. DigiCert is the global leader in digital trust and creates digital trust solutions. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Kelsey Berteaux, Sr. Legal Operations Analyst, and Sinead Godkin, Chief People Officer.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Elizabeth Cole, Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer, and Dr. Donna Milavetz, Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights doTERRA. The mission of doTERRA is to share the highest-quality essential oils with the world. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Emily Wright, President, and Chris Farnsworth, Vice President of Human Resources.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights USANA. USANA creates high-quality nutritional products built on one simple idea: If you feed the cells in your body exactly what they need, your health will benefit. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Sheena Blauvelt, Executive Director of Human Resources, and Amy Haran, Executive Vice President of Communications.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Brandless. Brandless is one of the world’s fastest-growing omnichannel commerce platforms with a mission to make it easier for people to take better care of themselves, their families, and the planet by working with the best ingredients, partners, and customers to drive community-led innovation and validation. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Cydni Tetro, CEO.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Chatbooks. Their mission is to strengthen families. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Vanessa Quigley, Co-founder and Chatbooker-in-Chief, and Madison Bohannon, VP of People.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Instructure. They’re not only the makers of a leading learning management system, they are an education technology company with a mission to elevate student success, amplify the power of teaching, and inspire everyone to learn together. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Steve Daly, the Chief Executive Officer, and Steve Townsend, the Senior Vice President of Engineering.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley helps people, institutions, and governments raise, manage, and distribute the capital they need to achieve their goals. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Andrea Verkić, Executive Director and Head of Morgan Stanley Salt Lake, and Angela Rogers, Executive Director, Head of Central Review Unit-Wealth Management Risk, and the Women’s Network Advisor.
Support the show
Although Utah has a rich heritage of women’s involvement in voting, advocacy, and various types of political participation, for decades Utah has lagged behind most states in terms of women running for and serving in elected political roles. To track progress, the Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) began reporting on the status of women in Utah politics in 2014, with updates in 2017, 2021, 2022, and now 2023. This podcast episode highlights findings from the recent UWLP brief about the status of women in Utah politics in 2023. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by two former members of the Utah State House of Representatives: Becky Edwards, who represented House District 20 from 2009 to 2018 and is a former candidate for the US Senate, and Rebecca Chavez-Houck, who represented Salt Lake City’s District 24 from 2008 to 2018. For many years, they have worked tirelessly to encourage more women to run for elected positions within the state of Utah.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Clyde Companies, which is one of the oldest and strongest construction and building material organizations in the Intermountain West and Great Plains region. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Jeremy Hafen, the President & CEO, and also Dan Walker, the Chief Human Resources Officer and Vice President.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Extra Space Storage. Extra Space Storage is the second largest operator of self-storage facilities in the U.S. They have properties in 41 states and Washington, D.C. and own or operate over 2,000 stores. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Gwyn McNeal, Chief of Legal and the Women Employee Resource Group Executive Sponsor, and Whitney Harper, Senior Vice President of People.
Support the show
Throughout the United States, recent high school graduates and college students delay or take breaks in their higher education for a variety of reasons. One common and increasingly popular reason for delaying or taking time away from school is a gap year, which the Gap Year Association defines as “a semester or year of experiential learning, typically taken after high school and prior to career or post-secondary education.” Under that definition, gap time is purposeful and structured; it can include service and experience in new places and cultures. Religious missionary service fits this definition of structured gap time, something that many Utah students participate in because of membership in Utah’s dominant religion: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With many students throughout the US and Utah experiencing interruptions in their post-secondary education, it is valuable to understand the consequences, both positive and negative.
This podcast episode highlights findings from a recent UWLP brief that reports on a study examining the impact of missionary service gap time on a sample of Utah students, with particular attention to the unique benefits and drawbacks for women. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by the authors of the report: First, Maggie Marchant, Assistant Librarian at the Harold B. Lee Library at Brigham Young University; and Dr. Jocelyn S. Wikle, Assistant Professor in the School of Family Life, also at Brigham Young University.
Support the show
For over three decades, health psychologists have documented disproportionately high mental and physical health problems among individuals who are socially marginalized due to their race/ethnicity, sexual identity, gender identity, or socioeconomic status. The prevailing explanation for these health disparities has been that individuals who are socially marginalized experience higher rates of “minority stress,” or everyday instances of discrimination. However, studies show that the link between stigma and health does not depend solely on the frequency and magnitude of overt stigma-related stressors. Social safety—or reliable social connections, belongingness, and inclusion—may be the missing piece. Without clear indicators of social belonging and inclusion, the human brain “defaults” to a state of chronic hypervigilance, constantly scanning the environment for threat and uncertainty. This takes a toll on a person’s mental and physical health over time. Thus, the lack of social safety may pose just as great a threat to human health as excess stress.
Recently, the UWLP published a research and policy brief about social safety among Utah women, which is the focus of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by author Dr. Lisa Diamond, distinguished professor of psychology and gender studies in the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Dominion Energy, whose mission is to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Judd Cook, Vice President and General Manager of Western Gas Operations, and Nancy Philipp, who is the Human Resource Manager with Dominion Energy.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Park City Lodging. For nearly 40 years, Park City Lodging has provided vacation rental properties in Park City to worldwide guests. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Rhonda Sideris, the President and Founder, and Heleena Sideris, who is over international sales and marketing with Park City Lodging.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Utah Advanced Manufacturing Materials Initiative (UAMMI), which is a non-profit with the mission to elevate advanced manufacturing in Utah. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Dr. Tulinda Larsen, Executive Director; Cathy Blomquist, Member Services Manager; and KC Sanders, Director of Community Outreach and Workforce Solutions with UAMMI.
Support the show
Eating Disorders (EDs) are “behavioral conditions characterized by severe and persistent disturbance in eating behaviors and associated distressing thoughts and emotions.” A recent US study estimated that between 2018 and 2019, one person died from an ED every 51.5 minutes. The report projected that 28.8 million US people will suffer from an ED at some point in their lifetime, and women were two times more likely to have an ED than men. Conversion estimates predict that 278,266 Utahns (or 9.0%) will experience an ED. Given the mortality risk, higher rates among women, and the predicted prevalence of EDs in Utah, the Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) seeks to better understand what may be affecting this public health crisis in our state.
Recently, the UWLP published a research snapshot on eating disorders among Utah women, which is the focus of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the UWLP, is joined by Dr. Maya Miyairi, a former faculty member at Utah State University and currently a research scientist for the Center for Community Research at DePaul University; Dr. Sara Boghosian, a clinical assistant professor of psychology at Utah State University; and Sadie Wilde, an assistant professor of health & wellness at USU Extension.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Moxie Law Group. Moxie was founded by women and is a women-led personal injury law firm with offices in Utah and Dallas. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Jill Coil, the owner, and Kara North, a partner at Moxie Law.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Wasatch Front Regional Council, a public organization that enhances the quality of life in Northern Utah by unifying visions and plans that enhance things like a well-run transportation system, a strong economy, a healthy environment, and livable communities. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Andrew Gruber, the Executive Director of Wasatch Front Regional Council; Marian Florence, the Chief Financial Officer; and Julie Bjornstad, the Senior Transportation Planner.
Support the show
According to 2020 US Census data, 20.6% of females 25 years or older have earned a bachelor’s degree, compared to 19.8% of men. Within the same age group in Utah, females show the same pattern: 23.4% have earned a bachelor’s compared to 22.6% of males. Although statistics show gains in female educational attainment, females in Utah are more likely to have participated in some college with no degree (26.2%) or have an associate degree (11.1%), compared to males in Utah (24.9% and 8.8%, respectively). Additionally, although national rates show more females (13.0%) than males (12.4%) have earned graduate or professional degrees, Utah females (9.3%) have earned them at significantly lower rates than Utah males (14.1%). Utah females can be financially disadvantaged by not completing a degree or by not pursuing an advanced degree. Thus, it is critical to understand and address gender-related educational disparities.
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research brief about the perceptions of higher education, specifically with gender differences in Utah secondary school students, which is the focus of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by the authors of the report; Carlee Guenther Dynes, a graduate student studying sociology at Brigham Young University, and Dr. Emily Darowski, the Associate Director at the Utah Women & Leadership Project.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Wilson Electronics, a company that manufactures telecommunication equipment. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Bruce Lancaster, the CEO, and Michelle Anderegg, the Director of Account Management and Inside Sales.
Support the show
Utah has one of the highest levels of gender inequality in higher education in the United States. For example, only 9.3% of Utah women over 25 years old have earned an advanced degree (higher than a bachelor’s degree), compared to 14.1% of men. It is unfortunate since education is associated with many positive outcomes, including financial security and higher quality of life.
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published two research briefs about the gender gap in Utah higher education from both quantitative and qualitative perspectives, which is the focus of this episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Dr. Sojung Lim, an Associate Professor of Sociology at Utah State University and one of the authors of the reports, and Claudia Mendez Wright, a sociology doctoral candidate at Utah State University.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Struck, a company that works with other companies to develop and boost their brand awareness, engagement, and growth. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Pauline Ploquin, President & Partner, and Kylie Kullack, Head of Client Engagement.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Clearfield City. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Summer Palmer who is the Assistant City Manager, and Ricki Miller who is the HR Manager.
Support the show
In 2020, the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness reported that an estimated 3,131 Utah residents experienced homelessness on any given day. And, according to data shared by the Office of Homeless Services under the Utah Department of Workforce Services, 24,037 people accessed homelessness services in Utah sometime during 2021. Clearly, homelessness is a grave concern for many Utah women and families.
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot about homelessness among Utah women. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Dr. Emily Darowski, Associate Director of the UWLP; Joseph Jensen, Data Manager for the Utah Office of Homeless Services; and Michelle Flynn, Executive Director of The Road Home.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode highlights Lendio. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Brock Blake, who is the CEO of Lendio, and Faith Barela, the Senior Director of Human Resources.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have created an inspiring initiative to identify and highlight 100 Utah companies that champion women. By supporting employees through education, family-friendly benefits, policies, or programs that advance women, these companies have created an environment where women can thrive. This episode continues our series and highlights Digital Respons-Ability. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Carrie Rogers-Whitehead, who is the Founder and CEO of Digital Respons-Ability, and Karina Gathu, Operations Director.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project recently published a research snapshot on the status of Utah American Indian Women. Additionally, the UWLP published a summary of the two community conversations the UWLP held for American Indian women in Utah to listen to and document their experiences. This episode will discuss the findings of the research snapshot and the community conversations summary. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Marin Christensen, who was a co-author on the snapshot and also co-host of the two community conversations with American Indian women, and Lillian Tsosie-Jensen, who worked with Marin to coordinate and host the two community conversations.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project recently published a research snapshot on the status of Black women in Utah. Additionally, the UWLP published a summary of the two community conversations the UWLP held for Black women in Utah to listen to and document their experiences. This episode will discuss the findings of the research snapshot and the community conversations summary. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Marin Christensen, who was a co-author on the snapshot and also co-host of the two community conversations with Black women, and LeiLoni Allan, who worked with Marin to coordinate and host the two community conversations.
Support the show
The Utah Women & Leadership Project recently published a research snapshot on the status of Pacific Islander women in Utah. Additionally, the UWLP published a summary of the two community conversations the UWLP held for Pacific Islander women in Utah to listen to and document their experiences. This episode will discuss the findings of the research snapshot and the community conversations summary. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Marin Christensen, who was a co-author on the snapshot and also co-host of the two community conversations with Pacific Islander women, and MonaJean Tausinga, who worked with Marin to coordinate and host the two community conversations.
Support the show
Suicide is a serious, evolving, and complex public health issue that negatively impacts individuals, families, and communities across Utah, the nation, and the world. Suicide can have lasting and harmful effects on everyone touched in some way, and this is the topic of a research report just released from the Utah Women & Leadership Project. This episode explores some of the highlights of the report. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by the authors of the report. First, the lead author on the report, Dr. Kristy Hodson, who is a faculty member at Western Governors University in the College of Health Profession. Second, her co-authors, Dr. Chloe Bhowmick, a licensed clinical psychologist who works at The Partridge Group, and Cindy Jenkins, an Extension Assistant Professor at Utah State University.
Support the show
Sexual assault is a significant social, criminal justice, and healthcare issue in Utah. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) database, rape is the only violent crime in Utah with higher rates (55.5 per 100,000 people) than the national average (42.6 per 100,000 people).
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot on sexual assault among Utah women. This episode explores some of the highlights of the report. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by the two authors of the report. First, the lead author on the report, Dr. Julie Valentine, who is an Associate Dean and Associate Professor at Brigham Young University College of Nursing and she is also a certified sexual assault nurse examiner with Wasatch Forensic Nurses, and second, Dr. Leslie Miles, who is an Associate Professor at Brigham Young University College of Nursing and also a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Support the show
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot on the status of Hispanic and Latina women in Utah. Additionally, the UWLP published a summary of the two community conversations the UWLP held for Hispanic and Latina women in Utah to listen to and document their experiences. This episode will discuss the findings of the research snapshot and the community conversations summary. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Dr. Jessi Hill, from Utah Valley University, who was the lead author on the research snapshot on the status of Utah Hispanic women, and is a Hispanic woman herself; and Marin Christensen, who was a co-author on the snapshot and also co-host of the two community conversations with Hispanic and Latina women.
Support the show
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot on the status of Asian women in Utah. Additionally, the UWLP published a summary of the two community conversations the UWLP held for Asian women in Utah to listen to and document their experiences. This episode will discuss the findings of the research snapshot and the community conversations summary. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Dr. Jessi Hill, from Utah Valley University, who was the lead author from the research snapshot; Lillian Tsosie-Jensen, a consultant, who worked with the UWLP to co-host the two community conversations with Asian women; and Jenny Hor, who works as a project coordinator at the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs.
Support the show
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) are expanding faster and pay better than other careers. STEM opportunities abound in Utah, one of the top 10 states for tech job growth, net tech employment concentration, and net tech employment job gains in 2020. Yet, despite the abundance of STEM opportunities, Salt Lake City was ranked 43rd among other metro areas for “STEM-Friendliness,” a metric that, in part, considers the gender disparity in STEM field occupations and degrees. Nationally and locally, fewer women obtain STEM-related college degrees and work in STEM-related occupations, and they leave STEM careers once employed at disproportionate rates compared to men. Hence, the US and Utah STEM workforce remains predominately male.
Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot on Utah women and STEM. The report explored first, current STEM employment data; second, possible reasons for the STEM gender gap; and third, ongoing efforts to increase diverse participation and success in STEM fields. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Rebecca Winkel, lead author on the report and Senior Economic Advisor at American Petroleum Institute (API).
Support the show
Recently, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, talked to a variety of company leaders from different industries about their “family-friendly” practices and policies, particularly as they related to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women. This episode is the last in a series of episodes focusing on this very thing. In this series, we highlight one company per episode, and continue here with CHG Healthcare. Dr. Madsen is joined by President and CEO Scott Beck and Kerry Norman, Senior Vice President of People & Operations.
Support the show
Recently, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, talked to a variety of company leaders from different industries about their “family-friendly” practices and policies, particularly as they related to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women. This episode is the seventh in a series of episodes focusing on this very thing. In this new series, we highlight one company per episode, and continue here with 1-800 Contacts. Dr. Madsen is joined by John Graham, Chief Executive Officer, and Dave Walker, Chief People Officer.
Support the show
Recently, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, talked to a variety of company leaders from different industries about their “family-friendly” practices and policies, particularly as they related to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women. This episode is the sixth in a series of episodes focusing on this very thing. In this new series, we highlight one company per episode, and continue here with Recursion. Dr. Madsen is joined by Co-Founder and CEO, Chris Gibson, and Heather Kirkby, Chief People Officer.
Support the show
Recently, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, talked to a variety of company leaders from different industries about their “family-friendly” practices and policies, particularly as they related to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women. This episode is the fifth in a series of episodes focusing on this very thing. In this new series, we highlight one company per episode, and continue here with Ultradent. Dr. Madsen is joined by Dirk Jeffs, President and CEO of Ultradent Products, and David Alsop, who is the Vice President of Human Resources.
Support the show
Recently, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, talked to a variety of company leaders from different industries about their “family-friendly” practices and policies, particularly as they related to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women. This episode is the fourth in a series of episodes focusing on this very thing. In this new series, we highlight one company per episode, and continue here with Intermountain Healthcare. Dr. Madsen is joined by Marc Harrison, Intermountain Healthcare’s President & Chief Executive Officer, and Heather Brace, Senior Vice President & Chief People Officer of Intermountain Healthcare.
Support the show
For years, many companies have implemented practices, policies, programs, and initiatives that are designed—among other reasons—for the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in their companies or firms. And most, if not all, of these family-friendly practices are helpful for men too. This episode is the third in a series of episodes focusing on this very thing. In this new series, we highlight one company per episode, and continue here with Goldman Sachs. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Stacey Miller and Brian Greeff, who are the Co-Managing Directors and Co-Chief Operating Officers for the Salt Lake City region.
Support the show
In 2020, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a study that investigated 100 companies who have been on various lists of Utah’s “Best Places to Work.” Since then, the UWLP has been highlighting these types of efforts in various ways. This episode is the second in a series of episodes focusing on practices, policies, programs, and initiatives that are linked to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in their organizations. More broadly, many of these are referred to as “flexible and family-friendly” policies. In this new set of episodes, we highlight one company per episode, and continue the series with Overstock.com. Overstock is an internet retailer headquartered in Utah. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Overstock's President, Dave Nielsen, and Sandra Bushby, Overstock’s Diversity & Inclusion Strategist.
Support the show
In 2020, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a study that investigated 100 companies who have been on various lists of Utah’s “Best Places to Work.” Since then, the UWLP has been highlighting these types of efforts in various ways. This episode is the first in a series of episodes focusing on practices, policies, programs, and initiatives that are linked to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in their organizations. More broadly, many of these are referred to as “flexible and family-friendly” policies. In this new set of episodes, we highlight one company per episode, and start the series with Zions Bank. With over 10,000 employees, Zions Bank is a leader in creating and implementing policies that support women and families (and men too). Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by Scott Anderson, President of Zions Banks, and Trina Eyring, Director of Talent Acquisition for Zions Bank.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Human trafficking is a global problem that involves the exploitation of people for profit through the means of force, fraud, or coercion. It takes a variety of forms, including forced labor, debt bondage, domestic servitude, and sexual exploitation. Despite public perceptions that human trafficking is only an international problem, it occurs in the United States and even within urban and rural areas of Utah. Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot on this very topic. The snapshot examined human trafficking definitions and contributing factors, the direct and indirect costs and consequences of human trafficking, the stats on Utah specifically, and recommendations for eliminating human trafficking in Utah. This episode explores some of the highlights of the report with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Dr. Annie Isabel Fukushima, a human trafficking scholar and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies, Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research, and Associate Professor in the Division of Ethnic Studies with the School for Cultural & Social Transformation at the University of Utah.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
“Sexual minority women” is defined in this podcast as those who do not identify as heterosexual (e.g., lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual). They may face all the obstacles associated with identifying as a woman, in addition to possible discrimination or other disadvantages linked to their sexual orientation. Recently, the Utah Women & Leadership Project published a research snapshot on this very topic, and it shared data specifically on the economic disadvantages that sexual minority women face in the areas of education, employment status, and household income. This episode explores some of the highlights of the report with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Dr. Claudia Geist, Associate Professor of Gender Studies and Sociology at the University of Utah.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
This is the third episode that discusses sexist comments and responses with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Robbyn Scribner, lead researcher on this report series. This episode focuses on the last two reports in the sexist comments and responses brief series, focusing on stereotypes and undervaluing women. As in the other episodes in this series, it does not focus on what they have heard through the years personally, but is a discussion of an in-depth research study on sexist comments heard by Utah women. During May–June of 2020, an online survey instrument was administered to a sample of Utah women representing diverse settings, backgrounds, and situations (e.g., age, marital status, education, race/ethnicity, parenthood status, employment status, faith tradition, and county/region). Overall, 1,115 respondents started the survey, and 839 Utah women participated enough to provide usable data.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
In 2016, 46.9% of Utah female-headed households with related children under age 5 were living in poverty. Since then, the overall poverty rate in Utah has decreased 2.4%. However, over a third (36.4%) of that same demographic still live in poverty. Additionally, although Utahns experience lower rates of poverty than the national average (8.9% in Utah vs. 12.3% nationwide), more women continue to live in poverty than men (9.6% vs. 8.2%, respectively). Many factors influence poverty among Utah women; for example, the gender wage gap is one of the highest in the nation, and women are more likely to work minimum-wage and part-time jobs with no benefits. In January 2022, the UWLP published a research snapshot on poverty among Utah women, updating the original report that was published in 2016. This episode explores some of the highlights of the report with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Dr. Emily S. Darowski, Assistant Librarian, Brigham Young University; and Dawn-Marie Wood, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Brigham Young University.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
The gender wage gap is the difference between what women and men earn for performing full-time, year-round paid work. In Utah, women earn approximately 30% less than men, ranking close to last in most state comparisons. In October of 2021, the UWLP published a research snapshot on the gender wage gap in Utah, updating the original report that was released four years ago. This episode explores some of the highlights of the report with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Rebecca Winkel, Senior Economic Advisor for American Petroleum Institute; and Dr. Emily Swensen Darowski, Assistant Librarian in the Lee Library at Brigham Young University.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
The benefits of physical activity are well documented and improve all aspects of health and overall wellbeing. Globally, on average, 37.1% of women are insufficiently physically active while only 23.4% of men are; this trend is also found in Utah, where 19.4% of women are insufficiently physically active while only 17.6% of men are. While women often live longer than men, they are frequently in worse health. This episode discusses some of the highlights from an August 2021 research snapshot on this topic with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Kim Buesser and Rachel Myrer, co-authors on the report.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
This is the second episode that discusses sexist comments and responses with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Robbyn Scribner, lead researcher on this report series; and Heather Sundahl, one of the coders of this report series. As in the first episode, it does not focus on what they have heard through the years personally, but is a discussion of an in-depth research study on sexist comments heard by Utah women. During May–June of 2020, an online survey instrument was administered to a sample of Utah women representing diverse settings, backgrounds, and situations (e.g., age, marital status, education, race/ethnicity, parenthood status, employment status, faith tradition, and county/region). Overall, 1,115 respondents started the survey, and 839 Utah women participated enough to provide usable data.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
This is the first of two episodes that discuss sexist comments and responses with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Robbyn Scribner, lead researcher on this report series; and Heather Sundahl, one of the coders of this report series. It does not focus on what they have heard through the years personally, but instead is a discussion of an in-depth research study on sexist comments heard by Utah women. During May–June of 2020, an online survey instrument was administered to a sample of Utah women representing diverse settings, backgrounds, and situations (e.g., age, marital status, education, race/ethnicity, parenthood status, employment status, faith tradition, and county/region). Overall, 1,115 respondents started the survey, and 839 Utah women participated enough to provide usable data.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
For the fourth year in a row, WalletHub has named Utah the worst state in the nation for women’s equality in their report “2021’s Best & Worst States for Women’s Equality,” released in August. To determine where women receive the most equal treatment, WalletHub’s analysis compared the 50 states across 17 key indicators of women’s equality. The indicators range from the gap between the number of female and male executives, to the disparity in unemployment rates for women and men, to gender differences in education and health. WalletHub is not alone in ranking Utah at the bottom of lists that analyze how women fare in the nation. Zions Bank commissioned the UWLP to dig into these indicators and analyze whether they are accurate, what they mean, and to determine what needs to be done to change things.
This episode discusses some of the highlights from the UWLP white paper on this topic with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Sui Lang Panoke, Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Zions Bank; and Nubia Pena, Senior Advisor on Equity and Opportunity and Director of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Substance use disorders, including those stemming from the opioid epidemic, have reached crisis levels throughout the United States, and Utah is no exception. In 2017, more than 72,000 Americans died from drug overdoses, a number that has doubled in the past decade.
From 2013–2015, 776 Utah women died from a drug overdose. Women are more likely to be prescribed opioids and to develop an addiction more easily when compared to men. As substance use disorders have serious negative effects on individuals, families, and communities, understanding and working to reduce this epidemic is imperative to improving the lives of women throughout the state.
This episode discusses some of the highlights from a November 2018 research snapshot on this topic with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Robbyn Scribner, lead researcher on the report.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
In this second episode of the “Understanding Gender” podcast series, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, explores research findings related to the biological and socialized differences between females and males in terms of sight, sound, smell, and communication.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
In this third episode of the “Understanding Gender” podcast series, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, discusses research around the separate and distinct characteristics manifest in boys and girls and men and women in terms of risk, confidence, and empathy.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
The Utah Women & Leadership Project has a three-episode podcast series called “Understanding Gender.” In this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, shares some of the research the UWLP has found that focuses on how understanding gender differences can actually help us raise girls—and boys, for that matter—to be more confident and competent. This first segment discusses the distinction between sex and gender, how the female brain varies from the male brain, and how a study with monkeys illuminates the differences between boys and girls when it comes to toys and touch.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Throughout much of history, women have been seen as an extension of their male relatives when it comes to finances. American women were not allowed to own property in their names until the mid-1800s, overt pay discrimination was legal until 1963, and women could not access credit on their own until 1974. It is only in the last half century or so that women in the US have been able to participate fully in the financial matters that affect their everyday lives.
Utah women’s lives in the 21st century look dramatically different from their lives in years past; there has been an increase in labor force participation and a decrease in the marriage rate. This means that now, more than ever before, Utah women need to be financially literate and prepared to be financially independent. Unfortunately, research shows that most adults have major gaps in their financial literacy, women more so than men (only 30% of women and 35% of men worldwide show proficiency). There is a pressing need for women to increase their understanding of the financial situations and decisions they will face during their lives, and Utah women are no exception. This episode discusses some of the highlights from an April 2020 research snapshot with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Robbyn Scribner, lead researcher on the report.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Gender equality isn’t just about women; it’s about all of us. But while genuine equity is good for women and men, men are often absent from these conversations. This episode focuses on men’s engagement in gender equality, bringing you the highlights from an April 2021 Women’s Leadership Forum exploring this issue. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, is joined by David Smith, Associate Professor of Sociology in the College of Leadership and Ethics at the U.S. Naval War College, and W. Brad Johnson, Professor of Psychology in the Department of Leadership, Ethics and Law at the United States Naval Academy.
Drs. Smith and Johnson, authors of the Harvard Business Review books Athena Rising and Good Guys, provide the “how to” for men, women, and organizational leaders who want to be intentional, inclusive, and excellent allies, leveraging mentorship, sponsorship, and workplace partnership to create a more diverse workforce.
*This episode was recorded on April 9, 2021.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
For women, having a seat at the table does not mean having a voice. When women speak, they are interrupted more, listened to less, and perceived as less authoritative than men. This episode features highlights from a March 2020 Women’s Leadership Forum with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and two professors at Brigham Young University: Dr. Jessica Preece, Associate Professor of Political Science, and Dr. Christopher F. Karpowitz, Co-Director of the Center for the Study of Elections and Democracy. Drs. Jessica Preece and Christopher Karpowitz present on their groundbreaking research that shows what it takes for a woman to truly be heard. This engaging podcast provides tips and strategies that can help all women understand what it takes for women to be heard and viewed as influential.
*This episode was recorded on March 12, 2021.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Breast cancer is one of the most commonly occurring cancers among U.S. women and the primary cause of cancer death among women in Utah. Yet, research has found that deaths from breast cancer can be substantially reduced if the tumor is discovered early, and mammography screening is the most effective method for early detection. However, despite the advantages of mammography screening for reducing mortality, not all women receive screening according to recommended guidelines, and screening rates remain low. This is also true in Utah; in fact, a recent study showed Utah to be among the five lowest states in the nation for mammography screening rates, and in 2014, only 64.5% of Utah women aged 40 and older had received a mammogram within the two previous years, compared with 72.3% of U.S. women. This episode discusses some of the highlights from a March 2017 research snapshot with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, and Robbyn Scribner, lead researcher on the report.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Did you know that one in four girls is sexually abused before age 18? That’s an estimated 42 million women in the United States. Violence against women remains largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma, and shame surrounding it. The majority of survivors keep the abuse a secret for many years, and most don’t talk about the abuse until adulthood. As survivors carry the weight of their abuse, they often struggle with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, insomnia, panic attacks, addiction, learning difficulties, chronic pain, and unhealthy relationships.
This episode features highlights from a February 2021 Women’s Leadership Forum with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Liliana Olvera-Arbon, Executive Director of the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault; Chris Yadon, Executive Director of the Younique Foundation; Dr. Annie Isabel Fukushima, Assistant Professor in the Ethnic Studies Division in the School for Cultural and Social Transformation at the University of Utah; and Jennifer Campbell, Executive Director of South Valley Services.
The panelists present research and data as they discuss the realities of violence against girls and women in Utah. Learn how you can support survivors and how you can do your part to protect girls and women from violence and abuse.
*This episode was recorded on February 17, 2021.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
The gender wage gap is a persistent concern in the United States. Women make about 82% of what men make for comparable work and the numbers in Utah are more extreme, where a woman earns approximately 71 cents for each dollar a man earns. In fact, Utah is consistently near the bottom of national rankings in terms of gender pay equity.
This episode features highlights from an August 2020 online Women’s Leadership Forum with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Katie Hudman, Attorney with Employers Council; Senator Luz Escamilla, Utah Legislature and Vice President for Zions Bank in the Community Development Group; Carrie Mayne, Associate Commissioner for Workforce and Institutional Research; and Erin Jemison, Manager at the Crime and Justice Institute (CJI).
The panel discusses some of the most important contributing factors, digs deeper into how the gap varies by race and other demographics, and evaluates major efforts to reduce the wage gap, including both private and public initiatives.
*This episode was recorded on August 18, 2020.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
The Black Lives Matter and #MeToo movements have placed a spotlight on enduring racial and gender inequalities in the United States. Both movements were launched by Black women who continue to call attention to the intersections between race and gender in shaping opportunity and justice in America. This episode features highlights from a September 2020 online Women’s Leadership Forum. Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, moderated the panel and was joined by Sui Lang L. Panoke, founder of Rethink International; Michelle Love-Day, an educator with nearly two decades of experience, and founder of the online virtual academy RISE!; Christy Glass, Professor of Sociology and the Interim Director of the Center for Intersectional Gender Studies & Research at Utah State University; and LaShawn Williams, licensed professional social worker and co-founder of The Black Clinicians. The panelists examine the lived experiences of women and girls of color and how they navigate politics, the workplace, education, and mental health services. They discuss the roles of power and identity and how they contribute to the experience of marginalization and oppression for many women. Finally, the panelists discuss how we can all challenge race and gender norms, break stereotypes, empower each other, and learn to celebrate our similarities and differences.
*This episode was recorded on September 18, 2020.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Impostor syndrome is a phenomenon that causes many women to doubt their accomplishments or talents and have a persistent fear of being exposed as unqualified, even when there is ample evidence of their competence. Perfectionism is one of the primary factors underlying this common experience, and it can negatively impact a woman’s confidence. This episode features highlights from a November 2020 online Women’s Leadership Forum with Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; Aimee Winder Newton, former 2020 candidate for Utah governor and current Salt Lake County Councilwoman; Ally Isom, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer for ATTOSTAT; and Denise Lindberg, former judge of the Third District Court in Utah. They discuss what causes impostor syndrome and perfectionism, why these challenges are so common among women specifically, and how these experiences can be navigated more effectively. By learning how to mitigate the negative effects of perfectionism and impostor syndrome, women can increase feelings of self-worth and confidence, strengthen aspirations, and become inspired to more fully engage in the community (locally, nationally, globally) as a support to other women and girls.
*This episode was recorded on November 11, 2020.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Salt Lake City has the second-highest number of plastic surgeons per capita in the United States, second only to Miami and ahead of Los Angeles. National media and scholars have puzzled over the high levels of plastic surgery among Utah women, and a national magazine even called Salt Lake City the “Vainest City in America.” Many wonder why Salt Lake City, capital of one of the most religious states in the nation, would employ more plastic surgeons per-capita than Los Angeles. In fact, two-thirds of Utah Mormon women know someone who has undergone cosmetic plastic surgery. In a state known for its conservative and wholesome values, visitors are surprised at the large quantity of billboards lining Utah’s interstate freeway advertising plastic surgery and other body-manipulating procedures.
*This episode was recorded on April 24, 2019 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
In September 2013, the Center for American Progress released a report titled “The State of Women in America: A 50- State Analysis of How Women Are Faring Across the Nation.” This report ranks Utah last of all 50 states in terms of women being in positions of decision making and leadership. Although the focus is solely on the percentage of women in elected office and private sector management positions, we feel that a more detailed look on the status of women in leadership in various sectors within the state is useful.
*This episode was recorded on July 11, 2019 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
The Wall Street 24/7 recently published an article titled “The 10 Worst States for Women,” using rankings from various sources on gender wage gap, percentage of women in state legislatures, percentage of women in management positions, poverty rate of women, and infant mortality rate. Although Utah fared well on the last two, Utah was ranked as the worst state in the nation for women, with less than 31% of management positions held by women (2nd lowest) and only 16.3% of state legislators were women (6th lowest). It was also the 4th worst state with regard to pay, with the widest gap between genders (70 cents per dollar).
*This episode was originally released on July 11, 2019.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Research has shown that most managers and top leadership teams do not fully realize the value of having women in key positions, and this is the case across all sectors, including business, government, political, nonprofit, K-12 and higher education, religious, and community. Depending on the entity, this may include women in both paid and unpaid roles ranging from positions such as supervisor, coordinator, and manager, to school principal, council member, CEO, and board director. Organizations will increasingly thrive when both men and women hold management and leadership roles.
*This episode was recorded on July 10, 2019 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Although Utah research has shown that there has been slight progress in terms of women and leadership in some sectors, national sources continue to rank Utah as one of the worst states for women’s equality. Clearly there is still work to be done to “move the needle” so that more Utah women become leaders. Research continues to show that most managers and top leadership teams do not fully realize the value of having women in key positions. Yet, organizations benefit more when both women and men hold top positions in all types of settings (e.g., business, government, political, nonprofit, education, religious, and community).
*This episode was originally released on May 30, 2019.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Childcare is an important consideration for millions of American families; 71% of all women with children under 18 are in the labor force, comprising one-third of the total female workforce in the U.S. Further, childcare costs are becoming increasingly burdensome; in the U.S. generally, and in 33 states specifically (including Utah), the annual cost of childcare is higher than the cost of in-state tuition at a four-year public college. Although childcare is a family and community issue, women often bear the primary responsibility for managing childcare, and, in the case of female heads of household, women may carry both breadwinning and caregiving duties with very little support.
*This episode was recorded on March 20, 2019 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
More than 40% of Utah women work in just two occupational groups, both of which pay less than the median state average. Over the past half-century or so, Utah women’s participation in the labor force has steadily increased at a rate of about 8% per decade.1 According to the most recent (2015) U.S. Census Bureau estimates, women in Utah make up 43.9% of the state workforce, which is slightly lower than the U.S. women’s share of the national workforce, 47.4%. In general, Utah women are about as likely to be employed as U.S. women, but Utah women are less likely to work full-time year round.
*This episode was originally released on February 15, 2019.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Utah has one of the largest gender wage gaps in the nation; women earn 71 cents per dollar that a man earns. In 2016, American women earned approximately 20% less than men. This gap has narrowed substantially since 1963, when the Equal Pay Act was passed and women earned 41% less than men; yet a gap persists, and a half century later women are still paid less than men in almost every occupation. Closing the gender wage gap will strengthen women’s economic impact in their families, communities, and the state.
*This episode was recorded on February 1, 2019 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Utah women spend an average of 5.55 hours per day in unpaid work vs. 3.22 hours per day for Utah men. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, the monetary value of women’s unpaid work is estimated to be $10 trillion each year, and women worldwide spend a significantly larger portion of their time than men performing this critical work. This happens for many reasons, including personal values and choices, cultural and social norms, unconscious biases, and specific economic and employment considerations.
*This episode was recorded on December 18, 2018 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Overall, women in Utah live in poverty at a lower rate than the national average: Utah women (12.2%) vs. U.S. women (16%), and census data for 2015 ranks Utah 12th in the nation for the percentage of people living above the poverty line. The poverty rates are notably worse for certain groups.
*This episode was originally released on November 30, 2018
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
A national report stated that in 2015 nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. (43.3 million, or 17.9%) suffered from a mental illness and that 9.8 million Americans (4% of all adults) had a serious mental illness. One recent in-depth study showed Utah ranking sightly below the national average in the percentage of adults who suffer from poor mental health, the state regularly reports rates higher than the national average for depression. Another recent study that considered both the percentage of adults with mental illness and their access to affordable care (among other factors) ranked Utah last out of all 50 states plus D.C. Utah women, like women nationally, are diagnosed with depression at much higher rates than men. Understanding the factors surrounding mental illness and increasing access to successful treatment and support will improve the overall well-being of women in Utah.
*This episode was recorded on August 8, 2018 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
One in three Utah women will experience some form of domestic violence in her lifetime, and 40% of adult homicides in Utah are domestic violence related. Domestic violence is a serious and widespread issue affecting women and families in Utah. One in three Utah women will experience some form of domestic violence in her lifetime, and our rate is slightly higher than the national average (32.4% vs 28.8%). According to the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition, more than 40% of adult homicides in Utah since 2000 have been domestic violence related. 2 Domestic violence is often presumed to refer only to physical violence, but it also includes many other forms of abuse—emotional, verbal, financial, spiritual, digital/online, and sexual. Domestic violence can be perpetrated against anyone regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic status. A recent survey shows that 86% of Utah women believe domestic violence is a problem in their communities, and 63% believe violence against women is increasing.
*This episode was recorded on August 7, 2018 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Over the past 30 years, Utah women’s voting participation has been steadily decreasing, and their ranking versus women nationally is also on the decline. Utah has a strong history of women’s political and civic involvement. The state was an early leader in giving women the vote, was home to the first female state senator in the nation, and, as recently as 1996, had the strongest women’s voter participation in the United States. However, these factors do not give the full picture, and in 2015 the Institute for Women’s Policy Research ranked Utah dead last in the area of political participation.
*This episode was recorded on August 2, 2018 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)
Women who reported sexual harassment, the "silence breakers," were chosen by Time magazine as the person of the year for 2017. Although workplace sexual harassment has likely been around since the conception of workplaces, and sexual harassment has been illegal in the U.S. for decades, it is safe to say that the issue has never received as much attention as it has since the autumn of 2017.
*This episode was recorded on July 13, 2018 and was released earlier on a different platform.
Support the show (https://www.usu.edu/uwlp/get-involved/donate)