What Glass Ceiling?: Recent Episodes
Trypod Network
Lia Cruz has real conversations with inspiring women about their journeys — the struggles, the doubts, the joys, and all the glass ceilings that must be shattered along the way. Get ready to laugh, to cry, and in the process, maybe realize that that glass ceiling will only exist if we allow it to.
Lia sits down with host and content creator, Bea Benedicto. Bea's chosen career is the complete opposite from her real personality. She talks to us about her alter ego, her career trajectory, the discoveries she’s made about her true identity, and the importance of staying authentic and true to herself.
Lia talks to Joy Virata, the Artistic Director for Repertory for Young Audiences. Joy is a luminary of Philippine Theatre, and has had a storied career being onstage for most of her life. But finding her passion only began after 20 years of being a housewife and mother. She shares what she has learned throughout her life, and why she is so passionate about bringing the magic of the theater to younger audiences.
Can a woman now dare to look beyond the title of “mother?” Lia sits down with Jillian Gatcheco-Cantada, banker and former editor of Cosmo.ph. Like many other couples, Jillian and her husband have made a conscious decision not to have children. She shares why she made the decision, how it was received, and how she navigates a society that is still adjusting to a changing paradigm.
Lia chats with Julie Uychiat, a world-class marathon runner and the first Filipina to finish and win 4 out of the 7 races of the World Marathon Challenge. Julie shares how she discovered her passion for running at 44, how she maneuvers the challenges of her second wind, and how scaling long distances has helped her discover parts of herself she never knew existed.
Lia sits down with Juana Manahan-Yupangco, founder of the non-profit “Mesa ni Misis.” Juana is a staunch advocate of proper nutrition and food security; and believes that the key to nourishing the filipino people is in learning to cook better with local produce and support local farmers. She shares the work she has done to educate the everyday Filipino on the power and benefits of eating local vegetables.
Lia is joined by award-winning actress Dolly de Leon. Dolly has recently gained worldwide attention and a ticket to Hollywood after her role in the critically acclaimed “Triangle of Sadness.” But her burgeoning career is a far cry from her life as a struggling actor in the PH. Dolly reflects on her many years in the industry, the ups and downs of being an actor, and how all the challenges have kept her grounded as her star slowly rises.
Lia talks to composer and songwriter, Nica del Rosario. Nica worked mostly away from the spotlight, but has now become an established name after penning Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala” and the anthem of Leni Robredo’s presidential campaign. She shares what it’s like being a songwriter, how to find balance between creating art with earning a living, and using music as an avenue to create change.
Lia chats with environmental lawer Atty. Niner Guiao. After seeing the effects of Ondoy first-hand, Niner made it her mission to bring the impact of climate change on our country to an international audience. She also recounts her experiences in the fight to protect the environment amidst the real dangers that exist for those who stand up for it. Despite the daunting task and the unlikelihood of immediate results, Niner remains hopeful and determined to make a lasting impact.
Lia is joined by geodata scientist and science communicator, Stephanie Tumampos. Stephanie chose to take the unlikely path and pursued a career in the growing field of geoscience. She shares the many challenges she faced to become a scientist, and the power of educating the next generation.
Lia sits down with designer and educator Amina Aranaz-Alunan. Amina transformed her mother’s import-export business into Aranaz - a local accessories brand that is currently making waves in the global fashion market. She reflects on the challenges of being an entrepreneur and the triumphs of championing Filipino materials and craftsmanship beyond our shores.
We welcome a brand new season with the electric Merlee Jayme. Merlee is a creative consultant, chairmom, and a legend in Philippine advertising. She shares tales from her colorful career in a male-dominated industry, the many barriers she had to break, and why she fought so hard for her seat at the table.
Catch-up with Stef and Lia as they talk about what’s new in their lives, and what we can expect in the fourth season of the show.
Let’s talk about making your money grow! In our last minisode, InLife Unit Manager Katrina Lee gives us a practical primer on investments, and shares practical tips that can be used at any step of your investment journey.
Lia is joined by teacher, advocate, and youth leader Jai Hadji Sapiin. With a long list of achievements to her name, you’d think that the world would fall at her feet. But Jai is a young woman, a Muslim, a Moro, a Maranao, who hails from Marawi City – five automatic battles that she has to fight every day, even before she utters a word to anyone. She shares what it’s really like being a woman within the bounds of Islam, and opens up about the struggles she faces daily as a result of prejudice.
Lia sits down with award-winning entrepreneur, model, and author Rissa Mananquil-Trillo. Rissa is the co-founder of Happy Skin, a trailblazing brand in the local beauty industry. She shares all she’s learned from building a business from the ground up, the many challenges of being an entrepreneur, and how keeping grounded in her values has given her the courage to step back and start over.
Let’s talk about managing money! In our fourth minisode, InLife Business Unit Manager Maffy Villamor explains why it is profitable to be disciplined, and shares her concrete steps on how to make sure your money is working to help you reach your goals.
Is it possible to do good business? Lia is joined by Nanette Medved-Po, multi-awarded philanthropist, and the founder and chairwoman of the non-profit HOPE and Plastic Credit Exchange Groups. Nanette has made it her life’s mission to change the paradigm of doing good business. From starting HOPE in a Bottle from her bedroom to seeking environmentally sound solutions to plastic waste reduction on a global scale - Nanette shares the power of passion and courage in creating an impact.
What is it like to sacrifice financial stability for the greater good? Lia chats with public school teacher Sabrina Ongkiko. Sabrina, or Teacher Sab, was set to enter medical school when she spun her heels and decided to become a teacher. She shares all she has borne witness to these past 13 years: her despair and frustration over our educational system, her passion for her students, her hope for the country, and how love continues to sustain her through it all.
Let’s talk about women and money! In our third minisode, InLife Unit Manager Adi Sebastian runs us through the most common financial concerns of women, how these change through different life stages, and provides practical tips on how to best manage them.
In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Lia sits down with the co-founder of I Can Serve Foundation, Crisann Celdran. Crisann shares how her life changed after being diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer at the tender age of 26. She opens up about her own cancer journey – the years of treatment and isolating feelings, coming to terms with shattered dreams, experiencing miracles, and channeling her own struggles into finding her purpose.
Lia has a heart-to-heart with the founder of The Bullish Life, Nicole Suarez. As a certified financial coach, Nicole is more than equipped to handle money, but it wasn’t enough to shield her from falling victim to a financial scam. She shares how she coped with the fallout, how she sunk to the depths of suicidal thoughts, and how she crawled out of her pit and found forgiveness and healing.
Let’s talk about insurance! In our second minisode, InLife Financial Advisor, former teacher, and mother Mace Acebuche gives us a primer on insurance, the role it plays in your portfolio, and how you can use it to reach your financial goals.
How do you recover from tremendous loss? Lia is joined by DJ and yoga instructor, Karrots Nazareno. For the first time, Karrots opens up about the incident that left her a single mom. She shares how she is dealing with the loss of her husband, navigating grief while caring for her children, and the strength and selflessness she’s found within.
Can women succeed in a “man’s” world? Lia chats with Airbus A320 pilot, former flight attendant, and NFT founder Chezka Gonzales. After getting pregnant at 16, Chezka quickly realized the many limitations society put around her as a woman. This didn’t stop her from fearlessly going after her goals, and leaning into her femininity as a tool to break through the male-dominated airline industry.
Let’s talk about money! In our first special minisode, InLife Unit Manager Sam Booc shares four basic principles that every woman can adopt to set themselves up for financial freedom.
Lia is joined by Anya Lim, community development worker and co-founder of Anthill Fabric. Anya looks back on the colorful 12-year journey of building a social enterprise and what it took to earn the trust of a community. Despite living in completely different environments, Anya shares how indigenous culture and way of life may hold the answers to many of the pressing problems of our modern world.
What is it really like to become a parent? Lia sits down with DJ, host, digital creator, and new mom Bea Fabregas-Ramos as she opens up about the different chapters of her transition to motherhood: the joy of birth and grief over the loss of her old life, discovering herself as a mom, and adapting to how her life has changed in this current season.
We kick off our third season chatting with the engaging Mona Magno-Veluz. Known on TikTok as “Mighty Magulang,” Mona is a history buff, genealogist, and the National President of the Autism Society Philippines. She touches on her advocacy for autism inclusion, and how exploration of her personal ancestry led to her mission of helping educate a new generation on the power of our cultural heritage and history.
Sit down with our founders, Stef and Lia, as they reflect on life, transitions, and get a sneak peek on what you can expect for the upcoming new season.
To close our sophomore season, Lia sits down with Prima Ballerina, and Artistic Director and CEO of Ballet Manila, Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. Lisa is a pillar of Philippine ballet, and a legend in her own right. With numerous local and international accolades under her belt, and 28 years of dancing all over the globe, Lisa shares all she has learned from her career, and how her greatest legacy is being able to share her passion with the Filipino people.
What does it take to go after your dream? Lia is joined by singer and international theatre artist Rachelle Ann Go. After a successful career in the Philippines, Rachelle Ann decided to leave home and move to London to take on the West End. She opens up about the hardships of relocating abroad, alone, as well as the indescribable beauty of building her own, new home in a new place – first by herself, and then, with a new family of her very own.
How do you live with a lifelong disease? Lia sits down with host, sportscaster and media personality Cesca Litton-Kalaw. Cesca has always been in control, but her life changed course after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and PCOS. As she moves forward, Cesca shares how learning how to cope with changes in her mind and body has taught her the power of letting go.
What does a doctor experience in a pandemic? Lia sits down with Dr. Tricia Robredo, primary health physician and public health advocate. As the daughter of two politicians, Tricia's lineage is synonymous to public service. She has chosen to continue this legacy, but on her own terms. She shares what it was like to serve as a medical practitioner during a global pandemic, as well as gives us a glimpse into her life and herself.
How has the pandemic changed you? Lia chats with Gab Pangilinan, theater actress and singer. Gab reflects on how her life has changed during the pandemic: the loss of her ability to make a living on stage, pivoting to survive, and finding joy as an anchor for hope.
Just how difficult is it to be a working mother? Lia hears from Anna Meloto-Wilk, co-founder of Human Nature and mom of six. Anna tackles issues that will resonate with working mothers everywhere: the difficulty of the never-ending juggle, the myth of “having it all,” and the power that mothers wield, and what they have to offer.
How do we break down the walls and ceilings set by social classes? Lia talks to Hya Bendaña, who, despite humble beginnings as the daughter of a jeepney driver, made headlines when she graduated as valedictorian of a prestigious university. Hya recounts the struggles she’s faced in her life, and reflects on the stark inequalities that she’s borne witness to.
What makes you valuable as a person? Lia chats with award-winning social entrepreneur Lynn Pinugu. Lynn reflects on the realities of being labeled a wunderkind, falling into the trap of being defined by one’s achievements, and finding her escape in understanding her true self-worth.
How do you take up space in a world that doesn’t see you? Lia sits down with transgender multi-hyphenate Mela Habijan. Mela gives us a moving personal account of her lived experience as a proud, transgender woman coming to terms with her own greatness.
How do you survive and thrive after an unspeakable trauma? Lia is joined by the vibrant and vivacious Keesa Ocampo. Keesa is an Emmy award-winning director, writer, producer, and founder of WeSparq, a BIPOC and female-led creative agency. She is also a survivor. Keesa shares her incredible journey through childhood trauma, and how healing her past led to her bright future.
How do you build a personal brand? Lia is joined by host, producer, and UNICEF ambassador Daphne Osena-Paez. Daphne’s path is carved from her passion to create despite life’s many many hurdles. She shares how being edged out of her hit TV show at 36 paved the way for her to claim her place in the world on her own terms.
How do you use your voice? Lia sits down with actress and advocate Ria Atayde. Despite her youth, Ria is empowered and passionate. She shares how learning to take care of herself has kept her grounded, and how she is defining balance in navigating showbiz and her work in championing children’s rights and voter education.
We open our second season with an electric conversation with the one and only Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski. Mikee is gracious in sharing about her experiences as a national athlete; how it has served as the bedrock of her career, and has defined her view of competition, collaboration, and her approach to life.
What’s the point of this podcast, really? Meet Stef and Lia, the creators of What Glass Ceiling? in this special mini episode, and get to know who they are, why they created this podcast, and where they hope to take it.
Who is the Queen without the crown? We wrap up the first season with the confidently beautiful, Pia Wurtzbach. Pia takes off her crown and finally lets us into her world as she attempts to answer the fundamental question we ask of ourselves: do I know myself?
How does a mother grieve the loss of her child? For our very special Mother’s Day offering, Lia is joined by the incredible Saab Magalona-Bacarro. After losing her daughter Luna in back 2018, Saab shares her intimate encounters with grief, her path towards physical recovery and emotional healing, and the lessons she has learned from her unspeakable tragedy.
What IS mental health? In a conversation that is needed for the current time, Lia is joined by Mental Health Clinician and Rock Ed PH Founder, Gang Badoy Capati. Gang the Therapist opens up to us about her life, work, and the personal experiences that have paved the path towards her greatest education: healing personal trauma and learning about herself.
What is life like behind-the scenes? Lia is joined by the beautiful and talented Glaiza de Castro. Glaiza shares lessons from her life off-camera: going the distance with her recent engagement, adjusting to a cross-cultural relationship, the gifts of taking the time to discover herself, and celebrating her newfound independence.
What wisdom has time gifted you with? Lia sits down for a chat with THE Tiyang Amy. Tiyang talks about how her faith, gratitude, and joy have sustained her through a long career, coping with aging in the cutthroat world of showbiz, a harrowing first experience with marriage, finding a second chance at love, while sharing all the lessons she’s learned about being a woman.
How do you make space for the new? Lia has a heart-to-heart with TV host and Podcaster, Joyce Pring-Tirvino. Joyce lays it all on the line as she navigates the new chapters of her life -- marriage, pregnancy, and impending motherhood. She touches on lessons from her humble beginnings, how she’s tending to her mental health while coping with change, and how she is discovering the gifts of her current journey.
How do we break out of a box that is built around us? Lia sits down for a chat with celebrated photographer Shaira Luna. Shaira opens up about her struggles on being labeled a “child prodigy,” the process of discovering the path she wanted to take, and finally capturing joy in finding herself.
Can we really make a career out of what we’re passionate about? In this episode, we get real candid with Marine Conservationist, Anna Oposa. After building Save Philippine Seas fresh out of college, Anna shares the rough waters she’s had to tread in educating people and effecting change to help preserve the beauty and richness of Philippine waters.
Are you truly an empowered woman? Lia has a compelling discussion with multi-awarded social entrepreneur Reese Fernandez-Ruiz. Reese reveals how her experience of growing up in poverty and her current work with disenfranchised women have helped shape her view of empowerment, and how the realities of women show just how much more work needs to be done.
What is it like to be unapologetically you online? Lia chats with the fiercely outspoken Voice-over Artist, Inka Magnaye. Inka shares what it was like growing up in an industry where her parents cast a shadow, finding her own stride as a content creator, and navigating through the ups and downs of being so present on social media.
How do you navigate being a female in media? Lia swaps newsroom stories with current Editor-in-Chief of VICE in Asia Pacific, Natashya Guttierez. She talks about her formative years in a female-led newsroom, and how chasing stories, beating deadlines, dealing with danger, death threats, law suits, and sexual harassment has been part and parcel of her chosen path as a Filipina journalist.
Motherhood as a career? So much to discuss! In our very first episode, Lia is joined by a household name in Philippine showbiz, Nikki Gil-Albert. After making a conscious decision to leave the spotlight, she shares her journey of finding a home outside of showbiz, honoring her current season of being a wife and stay-at-home mom, and the power in making choices for yourself.
Thank you for being here! Before you dive in, here’s a short overview on what to expect.