Those in the women’s leadership arena in Arkansas have likely heard of Woman-Run, an initiative from law firm Wright Lindsey Jennings designed to “help build community and to share the stories of those who inspire us.”
Now, thanks to the newly launched “Woman-Run: The Podcast,” you’ll have the chance to hear from them as well.
We caught up with initiative co-founders Rickie Smith and Meredith Lowry to get the scoop on the new show.
Give us the elevator pitch: Who is the intended audience, and why should they listen to the show?
RS+ML: Wright Lindsey Jennings started Woman-Run in 2019 as a resource and spotlight for the women who lead, launch and mentor, here in Arkansas and beyond. “Woman-Run: The Podcast” is designed for anyone, at any stage of their career, who is seeking insight, inspiration and honest conversations about work, life and what it really takes to grow. Through connection and community building, we aim to overcome historical challenges faced by women in business: lack of mentors and social capital, a financing gap and the tendency to be more self-critical and risk-averse.
What is it about your format or conversations that makes the show stand out?
RS+ML: We’re sharing real stories with bold women who have built businesses, broken barriers and are lifting others up. The format is conversational, relaxed, honest and fun. We’re kicking back with the leaders you likely know and the unsung heroes we want you to meet, and we’re exposing the commonalities that influence and drive us all.
What role do you hope it plays for this community?
RS+ML: We believe that building community through shared experiences helps everyone thrive. A rising tide lifts all boats, as the saying goes, and we want to be part of the tide of change. With the “Woman-Run” podcast, we’re expanding the reach of the community we’ve cultivated and meeting women where they are. People are busy — we get it! Now we’re providing the resources and inspiring stories that listeners can access when it fits their schedules.
In your opinion, which topics in this space don’t get enough attention? Likewise, what topics do you feel are played out/overdone?
RS+ML: “Woman-Run” is a safe space to talk about “sticky” topics facing women in Arkansas and nationally: health care, economic mobility, menopause, child care, access to capital and networks, representation, workplace culture, mental health, the political climate. These conversations are becoming more common, thankfully, but there is much work to do to advance the dialogue. Ultimately, “Woman-Run” provides the opportunity and the forum to collectively address challenges that impede growth for all of us. And of course, we talk about our friends and travel and food and wine and family, too, because those things bring joy and help shape our lives!
Who are some of your dream guests?
RS+ML: We’re not sure we could ever tell all the stories of the women who are leading and shaping Arkansas. The Woman-Run journey has revealed the power of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in our state and introduced us to the most amazing advocates. From those who turn side hustles into full-time dreams to those whose leadership lifts others, we’re honored to share their stories.
RS: I am also a huge sports fan with a journalism degree. My dream guests would be women like Holly Rowe, Erin Andrews, Robin Roberts, Billie Jean King, Simone Biles, Nancy Lieberman, Serena and Venus Williams, Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Caitlin Clark. And I’d love to hear the stories of trailblazers like Christiane Amanpour and Gloria Steinem.
ML: Hillary Clinton, Charlotte Clymer, Melinda Gates. Also, I’m a massive nerd, and there are some amazing women in the tech space on my list like Fei-Fei Li.
What podcasts are on your personal queues?
RS+ML: “This American Life,” “Strict Scrutiny” and “This Podcast Will Kill You.”
The inaugural episode of “Woman-Run” is out now, featuring a conversation between attorney Erika Gee and Mimi San Pedro, mentorship advocate and former chief strategy officer of The Venture Center. Listen below or click here to select your platform of choice.
