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345 Diversity and Flexibility in the Workplace Benefits All with Manar Morales

By Giovanna Rossi | Apr 20, 2025 |

Hello, and welcome to another episode of the Well Woman Show! I’m your host, Giovanna Rossi, and I’m absolutely thrilled to have you with us today. We’re diving deep into one of the most pressing topics of our time—how workplace flexibility and diversity benefit not just employees, but businesses, families, and society as a whole.

Today, I’m honored to introduce an incredible guest: Manar Morales. Manar is the President & CEO of the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance, a leading expert on workplace flexibility, and an advocate for creating inclusive, high-performing work environments. She works with organizations to help them implement sustainable strategies that foster diversity, equity, and balance, ensuring that all employees—regardless of background or life circumstances—can thrive.

In our conversation today, we’ll unpack several key issues:

  • Why workplace flexibility is more than just a perk—it’s a necessity for a thriving workforce.
  • How embracing diversity and inclusion leads to stronger, more innovative organizations.
  • The policies and practices that forward-thinking companies are adopting to attract and retain top talent.

Manar brings years of experience and deep insights into how we can shift outdated workplace norms to build a future where work truly works for everyone. She doesn’t just talk about change—she helps organizations implement real solutions.

The books she recommended:

Before we jump into this conversation, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the ongoing movement for workplace equity. It’s not enough to simply acknowledge the need for change—we must actively participate in creating it.

To business leaders—prioritize policies that support caregiving, flexible scheduling, and pay equity. To policymakers—commit to legislation that ensures fair treatment for all workers. And to all of us—let’s continue pushing for workplaces that recognize and value the full spectrum of human experiences.

A huge thank you to everyone committed to this change. Today, and every day, we celebrate the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead.

Also happening this month, 100 Women Albuquerque will be meeting May 14th at 5:30pm in Albuquerque to amplify our impact and assist under-supported organizations. The WWS continues our sponsorship of this great work in 2025. Come be inspired by the collective power of women. Join us to meet like-minded women committed to making a difference. Members can nominate local nonprofits and, promote a business or event during our meeting. Head over to 100WomenABQ.org

344: Paid Family & Medical Leave is a Win Win for Business and Families with Francine Campos

By Cianna Reider | Mar 25, 2025 |

Hello Well Women, on the show today I interview Francine Campos. Francine Campos SHRM-SCP is an accomplished HR leader with over 20 years of experience in human resources. She is the Director of HR at Sceye, an aerospace company located in Moriarty, NM, where she champions strategic people initiatives and fosters a culture of engagement and growth. She is also the owner of Leading Success Business Services, LLC, an HR consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations navigate leadership, compliance, and employee engagement.

Beyond her professional work, Francine is passionate about giving back through volunteer leadership. She serves as the Professional Development Director for SHRM New Mexico and HRMA, where she helps HR professionals grow and develop in their careers. She is also the Co–Chair for the Women in Business program at the Hispano Chamber of Commerce, supporting and empowering women in leadership and business.

Committed to supporting businesses that prioritize their employees and contribute positively to their communities, Francine is a dynamic speaker who leads workshops and presentations on HR best practices, leadership development, and employee engagement, guiding businesses beyond compliance to build thriving workplaces.

We discussed:

  1. Francine’s work in advocating for paid family medical leave legislation in New Mexico and the impact it could have on small businesses and the workforce.
  2. Francine’s experience traveling to Kenya with LifeStraw to provide clean water access to schools and communities.
  3. Francine’s personal journey as an introvert and empath, and how she recharges and leverages those qualities in her work.

As always, all the links and information are at wellwomanlife.com/344show

343: Ending the Culture of Overwork with Brigid Schulte

By Giovanna Rossi | Mar 14, 2025 |

Hello, and welcome to another episode of the Well Woman Show! I’m your host, Giovanna Rossi, and I’m absolutely thrilled to have you with us today. We’re diving deep into one of the most pressing topics of our time—how we work, live, and care for one another—and what that means for all of us striving for a healthy and fulfilling life.

Today, I’m honored to introduce a truly inspiring guest: Bridget Schulte. Bridget is an award-winning journalist and author, as well as the director of the Better Life Lab at New America. For decades, she’s been at the forefront of investigating the dynamics of workplace culture, time use, and gender equity. Her latest book, Overwork: Transforming the Daily Grind in the Quest for a Better Life, offers a powerful look into how our current systems are failing us and what we might do to change that.

In our conversation today, we’ll unpack several key issues:

  • The impossible balancing act between being the “ideal worker” and the “ideal caregiver”
  • The systemic challenges that working parents—especially women—face every day
  • And how businesses and policies can evolve to create more humane, productive work environments

Bridget’s impressive background includes more than two decades at the Washington Post, where she honed a journalist’s eye for detail and a passionate commitment to justice. She doesn’t just highlight problems; she provides actionable solutions for transforming how we think about work, care, and the immense potential of human collaboration.

Before we jump into this conversation, let’s take a moment to acknowledge Women’s History Month! I have a special message to everyone who supports this movement for change: We want more than a thank you or a shout out once a year.

To our spouses and partners listening—please, make the invisible workload visible and share the load. if you don’t know what the invisible workload is, go look it up. And when you look after the kids please don’t call it babysitting, you are parenting your kids.

To the employers and business leaders out there—show us your commitment to paid family leave, flexible scheduling, and support for caregivers. Track and share your data on employee pay by gender, race, and job category.

And to our public officials and candidates—please move beyond telling us you love your mom or your sister. You’re supposed to love your mom! Let us know your concrete plans and policies that center women’s lives and needs.

A huge thank you to all who are part of this change. Today and all month long, we celebrate the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead.

I’m also excited to share that Family Friendly New Mexico is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with an event featuring none other than Bridget Schulte herself. As part of their annual awards luncheon at Sandia Resort & Casino on April 30, Bridget will be coming to New Mexico to share her insights on building workplaces that truly work for families. With companies recognized for their innovative approaches to family-friendly practices, this event promises to be a catalyst for change. For more details, check out familyfriendlym.org. The Well Woman Show is a proud sponsor of this incredible event.

The Well Woman Show is thankful for support from Collective Action Strategies—a consulting firm dedicated to driving systemic change so that women and families thrive. And don’t forget to take the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at Well Woman Life Challenge – Well Woman Life . Trust me, these two questions could very well change your life!

All the links and additional information are available at WellWomanLife.com/radio and WellWomanLife.com/343show and The Well Woman Show on NPR with Giovanna Rossi – Well Woman Life .

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into our conversation with Bridget Schulte. Stay tuned as we explore how to transform the daily grind into a journey toward a better, more equitable life.

342: Healing Hearts with Debora Garrison

By Giovanna Rossi | Feb 12, 2025 |

Hello, Well Women, and welcome to another episode of the Well Woman Show! I’m honored to be joined by someone whose journey with healing and compassion runs deep. Please join me in welcoming Debora Garrison. Debora’s connection with The Grief Center began in 2003 at the Children’s Grief Center, where she participated alongside her son and daughter after the heartbreaking loss of their father. It was in those early days that Debora first experienced the transformative power of compassionate support—a power that would eventually change her life and set her on a path to make a difference for countless others.

We discuss:

  1. The importance of peer-to-peer grief support groups provided by the Grief Center, and how they create a space for people to engage in the grieving process.
  2. The challenges of grieving in a productivity-driven culture that often expects people to “move on” quickly, and the need to provide more bereavement leave for employees.
  3. How the Grief Center accommodates different cultural traditions and practices around grief, by training facilitators and offering flexible activities.

But before we dive into this heartfelt discussion with Debora, I want to share some exciting news and upcoming events that we’re proud to support. Mark your calendars for February 14th! The Well Woman Show is a proud sponsor of The Grief Center’s 19th Annual Healing Hearts Luncheon. This event is so much more than just a luncheon—it’s a beacon of hope and a gathering that provides essential healing and support to our grieving community. I’m especially proud to say that I’m a trained bereavement facilitator with The Grief Center, and being part of their mission to offer compassionate, safe support and a path to healing is an honor I hold very dear.

For those who might not know, The Grief Center is the only organization of its kind in central New Mexico. Currently, it serves over 400 bereaved individuals each month in 78 support groups running from September through May. Over the past 23 years, The Grief Center has touched the lives of over 12,000 individuals through its support groups, hosted more than 200 campers at Camp Corazon, and trained over 400 volunteer Bereavement Facilitators. If you’re interested in learning more about their remarkable programs, head on over to wellwomanlife.com/radio.

I also want to take a moment to thank our wonderful sponsors who help make this show possible. A huge thank you goes out to Collective Action Strategies—a consulting firm committed to supporting systemic change so that women and families can truly thrive. I also want to remind you to check out the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at These two questions could change your life! – Well Woman Life . Trust me when I say these two questions could very well change your life!

And there’s more good news: The Well Woman Show is also grateful for the support of Family Friendly New Mexico. Their efforts to create workplaces that work for families make a tremendous difference in our community. Speaking of family-friendly initiatives, please note that all Family Friendly Business Award® applications must be submitted by February 28th. This award is an incredible opportunity for businesses to gain recognition for their commitment to building vibrant, family-friendly spaces, to inspire others, and to have a genuine community impact. For all the details, guidelines, or any questions you might have, please visit familyfriendlym.org. Don’t miss your chance to shine and be a part of this amazing movement!

Debora recommended the “Jessie Hunt” series by Blake Pierce, which follows criminal profiler Jessie Hunt as she assists the LAPD in solving complex cases. The series begins with “The Perfect Wife” and includes numerous installments.

Remember, all the links and additional information—from details on the Healing Hearts event to The Grief Center’s programs—are available at wellwomanlife.com/radio and wellwomanlife.com/342show. We want you to feel informed, inspired, and ready to take part in our vibrant community.

341: Choose Love with Sandy Hook Parent Scarlett Lewis

By Giovanna Rossi | Jan 15, 2025 |

Hello Well Women, on today’s show, I interview Scarlett Lewis, founder of the Choose Love Movement in honor of her son, Jesse, who was murdered during the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy in December 2012.

Shortly after his death, Scarlett decided to be part of the solution to the issues that we’re seeing in our society — that also caused the tragedy — and turned it into an opportunity to build a culture of love, resilience, forgiveness, and connection in our communities at a time when it is needed the most.

We discuss:

What Nurturing Healing Love means.
How to overcome fear & post traumatic growth
and How we can choose love as a thoughtful response in any situation, circumstance or interaction

Make sure to listen to the podcast for the Superpowers for Success section! 

The New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women is excited to announce their Women’s Day of Action, January 28th at 10am in the Rotunda at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe. We’ll hear from lawmakers and organizations about key bills supporting women in the 2025 session.

Plus, get a quick Legislative 101 on how to make your voice heard and advocate for the bills that matter to you.

The event is from 10-11 and no RSVP is required.

Events – New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women

100 Women Albuquerque will be meeting January 29th at 5:30pm in Albuquerque to amplify our impact and assist under-supported organizations. The WWS continues our sponsorship of this great work in 2025. Come be inspired by the collective power of women. Join us to meet like-minded women committed to making a difference. Members can nominate local nonprofits and, promote a business or event during our meeting. Head over to 100WomenABQ.org.

Grief Center’s 19th annual Healing Hearts Luncheon, on February 14th, which provides hope and healing to our grieving community. Throughout their 23-year history, they have served over 12,000 individuals in support groups, over 200 campers in Camp Corazon, and trained over 400 volunteer Bereavement Facilitators. For more information on the Healing Hearts event, go to Healing Hearts Event – The Grief Center
For more information on The Grief Center’s programs, visit www.griefnm.org

340: Finding Solutions and Taking Action with Sonal Patel

By Giovanna Rossi | Dec 11, 2024 |

Welcome to The Well Woman Show! I’m your host, Giovanna Rossi, and today, I’m thrilled to bring you my conversation with Sonal Patel, board-certified pediatrician, neonatologist, and breastfeeding specialist, with a passion for improving postpartum care and infant nutrition. As the founder and owner of NayaCare: Fourth Trimester Clinic at Your Doorstep, she has dedicated her career to understanding and advocating for the critical importance of the fourth trimester in maternal and infant health. Her multifaceted career includes being a published author and researcher, a TEDx speaker, Colorado medical director of Family Connects, and the co-founder of the Center of 4th Trimester Care, a national nonprofit organization.

We discuss maternity and raising awareness of the health issues facing a postpartum mothers, the economic impact of a maternal death with maternal mortality.

The book she shared was The First 40 Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou

**The Well Woman Show is thankful for support from Collective Action Strategies – a consulting firm that supports systemic change so that women and families thrive, and by the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at ** wellwomanlife.com/radio

These two questions could change your life! – Well Woman Life

As always, all the links and information are at wellwomanlife.com/radio

339: Collective Awakening Through Acts of Peace & Justice with Mirabai Starr

By Giovanna Rossi | Nov 12, 2024 |

Today, as we continue to process the recent election results, we’re diving into a conversation that supports us in the realm of spiritual connection, resilience, and collective awakening. In times of change, we often seek grounding and meaning, and this week’s guest offers a unique perspective on how to find both. Wherever you are in the process of digesting the recent election, I invite you to take good care of your energy and your heart, nourish yourself and take your time. And know that there is a place for your voice and contribution in finding solutions to our most pressing challenges as a society.

If you are longing for community to rest, reflect, restore and rejuvenate with, join me in the Well Woman Academy. Details at wellwomanlife.com/academy

I’m thrilled to bring you my conversation with Mirabai Starr, an award-winning author, internationally acclaimed speaker, and a pioneer in interspiritual dialogue. Mirabai has been named one of the 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People, and she’s spent decades exploring spirituality through the wisdom of the world’s religious traditions. She’s authored books like Wild Mercy, Caravan of No Despair, and God of Love, which offer a fresh, grounded approach to spirituality and feminine wisdom.

Together, we discuss what it means to live a deeply connected life, where everyday experiences invite us to the sacred, beyond institutionalized religion and self-improvement. Join us as we explore how engaging in acts of peace and justice can be as profound as any personal journey.

The Well Woman Show is thankful for support from Collective Action Strategies – a consulting firm that supports systemic change so that women and families thrive, and by the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at wellwomanlife.com/quiz

As always, all the links and information are at wellwomanlife.com/radio

Mirabai’s first episode: https://wellwomanlife.com/captivate-podcast/173show/

Find her books here

Her group: Holy Lament – Holy Lament Community Grief Journey with Mirabai Starr

The Transformative Path of Loss & Longing with Mirabai Starr: An ongoing community grief journey through the Landscape of Loss

338: Fighting for Justice and Equality with Rep. Pamelya Herndon

By Cianna Reider | Oct 9, 2024 |

This week on the Well Woman Show, I interview Pamelya Herndon, an attorney and politician serving as a member of the New Mexico House of Representatives from the 28th district since 2021. She is a Howard University graduate and earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law.

We discuss:

– Representative Pamela Herndon’s work and advocacy for justice, equality, and improving access to behavioral health and maternal healthcare, especially for women and people of color.

– Herndon’s personal background and how her family history and upbringing shaped her passion for social justice.

– Advice and insights Herndon shares on achieving success, balancing career and family, and the importance of following one’s passions.

Pamela also recommended the book: “A Black Women’s History of the United States” by Dana Ramey Berry and Kali Nicole Gross.

She also mentioned the Legislative Health and Human Services Committee Meeting on November 19-22 – you can find out more here: https://www.nmlegis.gov/committee/Interim_Committee?CommitteeCode=LHHS

Remember:

Family Friendly NM Business Networking Oct 17 5:30-7:00

Join us on Thursday, October 17th and be inspired by leaders in the community!

Unlock Your Business Success: Be a part of the movement that prioritizes families and the economy in fresh and impactful ways.

Learn how to apply for the prestigious Family Friendly Business Award and elevate your workplace to new heights.

Network, have fun and uncover the path to recognition for your investments in both your business and your valued employees!

There is a business case for implementing family friendly workplace policies, this event is a perfect place to learn more.

Learn more

Also, 100 Women Albuquerque Oct 30 5:30-7:00

Once you donate, you become a member of 100 Women Albuquerque. Members suggest and vote on the nonprofit agencies that will receive funding. Each quarter five nonprofits are emailed out to the membership, they have three weeks to review and make their selection. The nonprofit with the majority of votes receives the funding. We keep a list of suggested nonprofits submitted from our members and all nonprofits are vetted.

Learn more

Don’t miss out on NMCSW’s Women’s Health Summit – New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women on November 8-9, 2024 at Isleta Resort & Casino.

Registration is limited so be sure to reserve your spot today.

Local women have shared their stories and the facts show that healthcare is a top concern here in New Mexico. As a result, this year’s Women’s Summit will focus on women’s health. Join the Commission on the Status of Women to hear incredible speakers, engage with other women, and attend panels exploring issues such as expanding access to care, women’s mental health, challenges for local medical providers, exploring community driven models of care, navigating healthcare resources, social determinants of health, and maternal mortality issues here in New Mexico.

Learn more

337: How the Patriarchy Harms us All, Boys and Men Included with Ruth Whippma

By Cianna Reider | Sep 11, 2024 |

This month on the Well Woman Show, I interview Ruth Whippman, British author, journalist and cultural critic living in the United States, and the author of BOY MOM, Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity. A former BBC documentary film director, her writing appears in the New York Times, The Guardian, Time magazine and elsewhere. Fortune described her as “one of the sharpest minds” of the decade. Her first book America the Anxious, was a New York Post Best Book of the Year and a New York Times Editors’ Choice.

We discuss:

  • The role of socializing our boys in society and the impact.
  • Patriarchy isn’t just about women, it’s impacting men as well.
  • How we can stop perpetuating the same cycles and do better.

But first I want to tell you about even event coming up in Santa Fe that I love going to every year and that the Well Woman Show is sponsoring- the 5th Annual SCORE Women In Business Conference: Building Bridges and Empowering Entrepreneurs! SCORE Santa Fe & Northern New Mexico presents the 5th SCORE Women In Business Conference on Thursday, September 19 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Scottish Rite Center in Santa Fe. This year’s conference aims to inspire and connect women entrepreneurs and small business owners across New Mexico. With a focus on collaboration and community building across cultures and industries, the event promises to be a valuable experience for all attendees. For more information about tickets, visit Women In Business Conference – Doing Well While Doing Good.

Now I’ve got to tell you how much I love this conference – it’s really well planned with wonderful speakers and engaging sessions. It’s a must go to for women in businesses no matter what stage you’re in! I always leave with authentic objections made and very inspired to tackle my next goal. I hope you’ll join me! Head over to wellwomanlife.com for more info.

The Well Woman Show is thankful for support from Collective Action Strategies – a consulting firm that supports systemic change so that women and families thrive, and by the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at

These two questions could change your life! – Well Woman Life

336: Heal the Divide Between Your Money and Your Sacred Self, While Creating a Just and Sustainable World with Genevieve Chavez Mitchell

By Cianna Reider | Aug 13, 2024 |

Hello Well Women! On the show today, I interview Genevieve Chavez Mitchell, local activist, global citizen, conscious investor, spiritual seeker and author of Sacred Money: The Power of Heart-Centered Finance. Genevieve’s background includes business and non-profit consulting, natural health care, and portfolio management. She is a proud mother and grandmother to her four sons and her four grandchildren. She co-authored the book Prayers to the Goddess: A Moon Cycle Devotion, with Anne Key. Genevieve is committed to a just, thriving, kind, regenerative Earth community. She lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

We discuss:

  • Changing Your Money Story
  • A Paradigm Shift From Me More Mine to Us We and the Earth
  • Practical Tips to use your Money for a Better World
  • Conscious consumerism

And much more

And happening next month, 100 Women Albuquerque will be meeting August 21st at 5:30pm in Albuquerque to amplify our impact and assist under-supported organizations. Come be inspired by the collective power of women. Join us to meet like-minded women committed to making a difference. Members can nominate local nonprofits and, promote a business or event during our meeting – I’ll be there facilitating the community sharing portion of the event and I’d love to see you there! Head over to 100WomenABQ.org for all the info and links.

 

I recently had the privilege of attending the White House Southwest Regional Business Briefing, where we heard directly from Biden-Harris Administration officials about the ongoing efforts to bolster our local economies through entrepreneurship and small business ownership. The discussions were rich with insights and resources aimed at supporting businesses, especially those committed to creating family-friendly workplaces.

At Family Friendly NM, our mission is to support businesses in thriving by fostering environments where families can flourish. We believe that when businesses adopt family-friendly policies, they not only enhance the well-being of their employees but also drive productivity, loyalty, and overall success. The White House briefing reaffirmed the importance of our mission and provided valuable resources to help us continue this crucial work.

At Family Friendly NM, we recognize that implementing family-friendly policies is a key driver of business success. Policies such as flexible working hours, paid family leave, and on-site or near site childcare not only support employees in balancing work and family life but also enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

During the briefing, I had the opportunity to ask two critical questions that are close to our hearts at Family Friendly NM:

  1. Childcare for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs: I inquired about the availability and support for childcare solutions tailored to the unique needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs. The response was encouraging, highlighting that the SBA recognizes the importance of accessible childcare and is working to include this in their support programs. They emphasized that integrating childcare support is crucial for enabling entrepreneurs to focus on growing their businesses without sacrificing their families’ needs.
  2. Family-Friendly Workplaces as a Strategy for Business Development: I also asked how the SBA is positioning family-friendly workplaces as a key strategy for supporting business development. While the SBA is doing incredible work in supporting small businesses, they have not yet fully integrated the messaging about the critical role family-friendly workplaces play in business development. This is where Family Friendly NM steps in. We will continue to be the voice advocating for the integration of family-friendly policies as a core business strategy, ensuring that the needs of both businesses and families are met.The White House briefing highlighted several policy priorities and resources that align perfectly with our goals at Family Friendly NM. Here are some of the key takeaways:
    1. Investing in America Agenda: This initiative focuses on strengthening local economies through investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and small business support. For businesses in New Mexico, there are specific state fact sheets available that outline opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
    2. Small Business Administration (SBA) Resources: The SBA offers a wealth of resources designed to support small businesses. These include:
      • Digital Investing in America Small Business Hub: This hub provides detailed information on accessing grants, contracts, and other opportunities. It also includes free guides and examples of small businesses that have successfully secured funding.
      • Capital Access: SBA’s lending resources are invaluable for businesses looking to grow. Programs like the Lender Match Program can help businesses find competitive funding opportunities.
      • Government Contracting and Business Development: SBA programs aim to help small businesses win federal contracts, which can be a significant boost for growth and stability.
    3. Entrepreneurial Development: Access to training and counseling is crucial for business success. The SBA’s network includes Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, and the Association of Women’s Business Centers, all offering support tailored to the needs of small businesses.
    4. Disaster Recovery & Resilience: The SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience provides essential support to businesses affected by disasters, helping them recover and build resilience against future challenges.I’m grateful for the continued partnership with the White House and the SBA as we work towards creating more family-friendly workplaces across New Mexico and beyond. I encourage all business owners and leaders to explore the resources available and to consider how family-friendly policies can contribute to a thriving, resilient business environment.

      Read more at https://nmfamilyfriendlybusiness.org/building-a-thriving-family-friendly-workplace/

 

The Well Woman Show is thankful for support from Collective Action Strategies – a consulting firm that supports systemic change so that women and families thrive, and by the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at

These two questions could change your life! – Well Woman Life