The Women in the Arena

In this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we're joined by Captain Riley Tejcek, a United States Marine Corps officer, Team USA bobsled pilot, author, and all-around force of nature. Riley shares her incredible journey from growing up in Carmel, Indiana, to playing Division I college softball at George Washington University, serving in the Marine Corps, and now competing on the world stage as an Olympic hopeful in the sport of bobsled. Riley is proving that women belong in every arena- whether it's the military, elite athletics, or beyond.We dive into the realities of balancing active-duty military service with training and competing as a high-performance athlete, the challenges of being part of an unfunded Olympic sport, and the purpose that drives her every day. Riley opens up about her passion for representation, her faith, and her desire to inspire others by living boldly and pursuing what may seem impossible. She's also a published children's book author, former Ms. Military titleholder, and keynote speaker- using every platform she's earned to advocate for women in service and sport.This conversation is a powerful reminder of what's possible when resilience, discipline, and passion collide. Tune in to hear Riley's story, and learn how you can support her journey to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy by joining #TeamTejcek.Follow Riley on Instagram @riley.tejcek and learn more about how to support her bobsled career through sponsorship or donation.

Rebecca Tubman is a seasoned cybersecurity executive and veteran with over 25 years of combined experience across national defense, intelligence, and emerging technology sectors. As a Federal Account Executive at Varonis, she leads the company's intelligence community initiatives, building the practice from the ground up and delivering automated, data-centric security solutions to U.S. Government and international clients. Her work ensures agencies are equipped to safeguard their most sensitive data from both internal and external threats.Before transitioning to the private sector, Rebecca served for over two decades in the United States Air Force, where she held diverse leadership roles across missile warning, space operations, intelligence, special operations, partner nation engagements, and cyberspace operations. Her distinguished career included multiple overseas deployments and combat tours, with assignments spanning strategic, tactical, and operational levels.A mission-driven leader with deep operational insight, Rebecca continues to bridge the gap between advanced technology and national security priorities.

 In this inspiring episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we sit down with Janet B. Nalls, Director and Chief of Staff at NetCentrics Corporation. A U.S. Air Force veteran and national security expert with over 25 years of experience, Janet shares her remarkable journey from serving as an intelligence analyst to advising top intelligence and DoD organizations.Janet opens up about her passion for mentorship, leadership, and empowering the next generation of national security professionals. She offers valuable insights into the critical areas of insider threat, counterintelligence, and strategic operations, all while reflecting on the importance of integrity, collaboration, and resilience in a demanding field.Beyond her professional achievements, Janet talks about balancing her role as a devoted mom and lifelong learner. Tune in for an authentic and motivating conversation that highlights what it truly means to lead with vision, heart, and strength.

Today's guest is Bridget Walton, a Marine Corps veteran and Women's Hormone Coach who helps women balance their hormone health. This episode is particularly special to me because Bridget and I went to the University of South Carolina together and were in ROTC at the same time—connecting with people from old chapters of your life is always so much fun. There is nothing more exciting than seeing veteran friends thrive in a new venture after the military, and this is certainly a special one. Lately, it feels like both myself and so many other women I know are craving more information about our hormonal health and how to truly understand our bodies, but we're often met with confusing information or dead ends. Bridget is here to help, and I can't wait to share her expertise with you.

In this episode of The Women in the Arena, Kafi Joseph shares her inspiring journey from Army officer to global strategist and purpose-driven innovator. A West Point graduate with advanced degrees in systems engineering and business, Kafi led teams across Korea, Iraq, and the U.S. before transitioning into high-impact roles in the National Guard and private sector. Her career spans global consulting, logistics, and leadership at firms like Booz Allen Hamilton, Fairbanks Morse Engine, and Accenture. Now, Kafi is focused on redefining productivity through her new venture, InRG—a personal energy app that helps individuals and teams align their work with their natural energy cycles using Human Design principles. She talks about challenging the stereotypes of productivity and empowering people to embrace how they're uniquely wired to thrive. As a neurodivergent leader, Kafi brings authenticity, insight, and a refreshing perspective on how we can all work smarter, live better, and lead with intention.

On this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we chat with Alea Nadeem. Alea is a dedicated leader in national security, congressional affairs, and veteran advocacy, with a distinguished career spanning military service, policymaking, and nonprofit leadership. She currently serves as the Director of DoorKeepers for the United States Senate Sergeant at Arms, ensuring the seamless operation of Senate proceedings and security functions.An Air Force officer with a diverse background, Alea has served in Security Forces, congressional policymaking, and advocacy, including her work with the Air Force Women's Initiative Team, where she led efforts to advance policies supporting women in service. Her commitment to mentorship and leadership has helped shape the future for countless service members and veterans.But Alea's journey to service is unlike any other. Shaped by overcoming extraordinary challenges in her childhood, she forged a path of resilience, bravery, and unwavering patriotism. Her life is a testament to grit and the power of perseverance, and she continues to dedicate herself to serving the nation—both through leadership and the power of storytelling.Today, Alea uses her platform to inspire and mentor others, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is equipped, empowered, and ready to shape a better tomorrow.

In this episode ofThe Women in the Arena, we sit down with Meg Tucker, an Army veteran and the Founder of The Valkyrie Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and supporting American servicewomen.With 15 years in uniform, Meg began her military journey as a Kiowa Warrior pilot before transitioning into special operations as a Psychological Operations officer. Now, in her post-military career, she is committed to ensuring women in service receive the training, support, and advocacy they need to thrive.We explore everything from hormonal health to sleep optimization, the unique challenges women face in military and tactical professions, and how they can optimize their training and nutrition for peak performance. Meg also shares howThe Valkyrie Project is pioneering a future where servicewomen are equipped to excel both physically and professionally.Meg's passion, leadership, and dedication to mentorship are truly inspiring—don't miss this powerful conversation!

In this special bonus episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we welcome Vineta Kleine, Head of Communications for NATO's Representation in Ukraine. With over two decades of experience in public information and communication for the EU and NATO, Vineta has developed and implemented strategic communication policies, advised senior leaders, and led public diplomacy efforts in regions including Kosovo, Moldova, and Ukraine. Since 2020, she has focused on Ukraine, first as Head of NATO's Information and Documentation Centre and now leading communications for NATO's Representation to Ukraine.Vineta brings a unique perspective on the ongoing war, passionately advocating for sharing the stories of Ukrainians, particularly the courageous women on the front lines. Her expertise and dedication highlight the critical role of women in shaping Ukraine's future. Please note, this episode reflects a dynamic and evolving situation, capturing voices shaping history as it unfolds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special final episode of Season One of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we are honored to feature Mahnaz Akbari, a trailblazing leader and former commander of the Afghan National Army's Female Tactical Platoon. Born in a refugee camp in Iran to Afghan parents fleeing Soviet occupation, Mahnaz returned to Afghanistan, where she joined the Army and led 30 women on hundreds of missions alongside U.S. Special Operations forces. Beyond the battlefield, she forged strategic alliances with foreign militaries and NGOs, all while earning a degree in Political Science. Since evacuating Afghanistan in 2021, Mahnaz now resides near Washington, D.C., where she continues her advocacy for Afghan women's rights and holds a leadership role at Sisters of Service, a nonprofit supporting Afghan women veterans during resettlement. This episode is a tribute to our sisters in arms from foreign militaries, celebrating the cross-cultural bonds that unite us in service and meaningful lives.For more information on the contributions of women like Mahnaz, visit the Sisters of Service website: https://sistersofservice.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Women in the Arena, we have the pleasure of interviewing the Honorable Dr. Kimberly A. McClain. Dr. McClain is an accomplished leader with an extensive career spanning over 30 years across academia, defense, financial services, government, and international relations. Her expertise encompasses critical areas such as aviation, cybersecurity, defense acquisition, legislative affairs, public policy, risk management, strategic communication, security cooperation, and strategic planning.Her time in the U.S. Air Force, where she served both in active duty and reserves, culminating in her retirement as a Reserve aviator with 29 years of service. In January 2021, she joined the Biden Administration as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Legislative Affairs at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Later, she was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and sworn in on January 3, 2023, as Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In this episode, we explore the significance of public service and the impactful initiatives Dr. McClain is leading at HUD. We discuss the challenges of housing affordability and the legislative efforts aimed at making housing more affordable, safe, and accessible for all Americans. You won't want to miss this episode, filled with valuable insights from an incredibly impactful woman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we are privileged to welcome Major Jacqueline Barnum, a dedicated leader and innovator in the United States Marine Corps. Originally from the Bay Area in California, Major Barnum graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps.After completing The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia, Major Barnum was assigned as a Logistics Officer, serving as the Motor Transport Platoon Commander and Officer-In-Charge for the Equipment Allowance Pool (EAP) in Okinawa, Japan, where she led humanitarian efforts in the Philippines. She then transitioned to 3d Maintenance Battalion, taking on multiple roles, including S-4 Officer, before being promoted to Captain in July 2018 and serving as Company Commander for Combat Service Support Company. Major Barnum later moved to Newport, Rhode Island, as the First Company Officer at the Naval Academy Preparatory School, mentoring future officers before assuming her current role as Headquarters Company Commander at MACG-38 in Miramar, CA.In addition to her military accomplishments, Major Barnum founded a mentorship program “Mentors in Service,” utilizing her social media platform, @jackiee.barnum, which evolved into a non-profit organization in December 2023. To date, she has facilitated over 2,000 mentor connections across all ranks and services, exemplifying her commitment to empowering others. Join us as Major Barnum shares her inspiring journey, reflecting on leadership, mentorship, and the vital role of resilience in both military and civilian life.For more information on Mentors in Service, check out their website at: https://www.mentorsinservice.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we are honored to welcome Jenn Hassin, a Texas-born artist known for her powerful installations that transform found materials into poignant reflections on trauma and personal journeys. Based in Buda, Texas, Jenn holds a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University, where she focused on Social Practice and Installation, and a Studio Art degree from Saint Edward's University.Before diving into her artistic career, Jenn served in the United States Air Force, stationed at Lakenheath Air Force Base in the United Kingdom. Her remarkable works, such as "Letters of Sacrifice" and "A Battle Lost," are displayed at the United States Military Academy Preparatory School in West Point, New York. Her pieces have also been exhibited at the Pentagon as part of a Smithsonian-curated exhibit and are housed in private collections at universities, homes, and businesses across the country.Driven by deep research, Jenn's art incorporates materials like clothing, paper, metal, ceramics, and glass, using them to give voice to the embedded histories of trauma, sexual violence, military experiences, and mental health. Her work addresses the complexities of life after rape, injustices within the justice system, and the struggle with mental illness and suicide, aiming to foster conversations and community healing through art.To learn more about Jenn's work, visit her website: http://www.jennhassin.com. To learn more about Project Raha and the project Jenn and I both participated in, contributing to the empowerment of our Afghan allies, access this link: http://www.affirmationarts.com/exhibitions/project-raha.Join us as Jenn shares her inspiring journey as an artist, veteran, and survivor, offering profound insights into resilience, healing, and the transformative power of art in addressing both personal and societal trauma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we are excited to introduce Major Danielle M. Park, an accomplished F-16 Instructor Pilot with the 179th Fighter Squadron, 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard. Based in Duluth, Minnesota, Maj Park is not only a key NORAD Aerospace Control Alert Pilot, supporting the critical 24/7 homeland defense mission, but she also manages the Wing Orientation Flight Program and oversees the Squadron's recruiting efforts for both rated and unrated positions.Maj Park's journey began at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics in 2010 before receiving her commission through the Reserve Officer Training Corps. In this engaging conversation, Maj Park delves into the adventures of life in the Air Force, from building resilience during deployments to her unique experience of training Brie Larson for the Captain Marvel movie. She also opens up about personal topics such as navigating marriage while managing a demanding military career and her experiences as a dual military spouse. Join us to hear Maj Park's inspiring stories and gain insights into leadership, balancing personal and professional life, and embracing the dynamic challenges of a career in the Air Force. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Kate van Dam, the Head of Strategic Growth at SkyFi. At SkyFi, Kate leads efforts to establish a leading geospatial hub, driving innovation and growth in the field. Prior to her role at SkyFi, Kate was a Senior Director at InQTel, where she worked with cutting-edge start-ups and the US government to enhance national security capabilities.Kate is currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Marine Corps Reserves and served 10 years of active duty as an attack helicopter pilot, conducting crucial combat operations in Helmand Province and counter-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden. In 2017, she made significant contributions as a White House Fellow, supporting disaster response at the Department of Housing and Urban Development during a record year for natural disasters.A graduate of the US Naval Academy, Kate also holds an MA in International Economics and International Relations from Johns Hopkins University SAIS. In our discussion, Kate delves into her approach to leadership, shaped by her diverse experiences in both military and corporate settings. She shares insights on overcoming adversity, balancing the demands of a high-profile career with parenting, and pursuing new ambitions following her transition from military to civilian life.Join us to hear Kate's inspiring story and gain valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, and navigating career transitions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shelane is the daughter of small business owners, growing up in central Florida and working on horse farms throughout her youth. After the attacks on 9/11, she was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army, becoming the first in her family to join the military.Shelane deployed to Ramadi, Iraq leading Soldiers as a Military Police Platoon Leader and Executive Officer. Upon returning, she moved to Fort Bragg, North Carolina and was specially selected for a Special Operations pilot program deploying women on combat missions in Afghanistan with Army Rangers and Navy SEALs, and charged with gathering critical intelligence on high-value Taliban and Al Qaeda targets. Shelane and her teammates' contributions to this historic program are chronicled in the New York Times bestseller, Ashley's War.Motivated to continue serving in Special Operations, Shelane attended and passed selection for a highly elite Special Mission Unit. She was deployed to combat yet again, partnering with Kurdish women forces in Syria to fight against ISIS, in addition to serving with inter-governmental agencies throughout the Middle East.Interested in how business approaches can provide solutions to public issues, Shelane left the military after 11-years and earned a MBA from Harvard Business School and MPP from Harvard Kennedy School of government. She's worked abroad on economic development projects, domestically as a security consultant, and volunteers with nonprofit organizations for youth leadership development and Afghan refugee resettlement.As a passionate advocate for community empowerment and inclusive governance, Shelane has stepped forward as an independent candidate for Congress in North Carolina's 9th district. Don't miss this opportunity to hear firsthand insights into leadership, service, and community empowerment from a dynamic individual making waves in both national security and public policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to a compelling episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, brought to you by Iron Butterfly Media. Today, we shine a spotlight on the extraordinary journey of Command Sergeant Major (CSM) JoAnn Naumann, from her early days as a Voice Language Analyst to her current role as the Command Sergeant Major of United States Army Special Operations Command, where she is responsible for approximately 36,000 people across 80 countries. The mission of U.S. Army Special Operations Command is to organize, train, educate, man, equip, fund, administer, mobilize, deploy and sustain Army special operations forces to successfully conduct worldwide special operations, across the range of military operations, in support of regional combatant commanders, American ambassadors and other agencies as directed.Throughout her career, CSM Naumann has been on an impressive fourteen deployments across CENTCOM and AFRICOM regions. She's taken on some pretty high-stakes roles too, like being the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) J2 Senior Enlisted Advisor and serving as Command Sergeant Major for the 15th Military Intelligence Battalion (Aerial Exploitation) within the JSOC Intelligence Brigade and Special Operations Command - Korea.Her military education is just as extensive, including the Arabic Basic Course, Air Assault Course, and Basic Airborne Course, as well as specialized courses like the Military Freefall Course and Special Operations Forces Intel Leaders Course. She's also a graduate of the Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy.Tune in to hear CSM JoAnn Naumann's compelling journey to military leadership spanning 28 years of dedicated service. CSM Naumann shares insights on leadership and how she prioritizes wellness amidst her demanding career. Don't miss this episode for a glimpse into CSM Naumann's impactful contributions and her leadership ethos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for an inspiring episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast powered by Iron Butterfly Media as we delve into the extraordinary life and career of Phyllis Wilson. With 37 years of dedicated service in the United States Army, Phyllis J. Wilson has left an indelible mark on military intelligence and leadership.Phyllis Wilson's journey spans across the globe, from Europe to Asia, Africa to South America, and North America, where she served as a Military Intelligence (MI) Voice Intercept Operator and later as an Intelligence Analyst with Special Operations in Iraq. Her tenure as the most senior Warrant Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve highlights her exceptional leadership, managing over 200,000 personnel and an $8 billion budget. A lifelong learner, Phyllis holds multiple degrees, including two Master's and two Bachelor of Science degrees, and has pursued advanced studies at institutions like the Defense Language Institute and the George C. Marshall Center. Her accolades include induction into the Army Women's Foundation Hall of Fame and the U.S. Veterans Hall of Fame.Today, Phyllis Wilson continues to make an impact as President of the Military Women's Memorial, advocating for the recognition of women's contributions in the military since the American Revolution. She also serves on the Reserve Forces Policy Board and is a Senior Fellow at the Association of the United States Army. A proud mother of eight children, including four combat veterans, Phyllis Wilson embodies dedication, leadership, and service.Don't miss this episode as we explore Phyllis Wilson's remarkable journey through military service, leadership, and advocacy, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her country and her fellow service members.To learn more about the Military Women's Memorial, or to share a story of a woman service member, visit their website: https://womensmemorial.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iron Butterfly Media launches Season 1 of The Women in the Arena Podcast, dedicated to amplifying the diverse experiences and authentic voices of women veterans. The Women in the Arena Podcast honors their resilience, authenticity, and leadership while celebrating remarkable women who have dared greatly in various areas of life. In this season premiere, Army veteran and host Sarah Scully shares her own story and military career, honors the women she served alongside, and reflects on the inspiration for creating The Women in the Arena Podcast.Subscribe to Iron Butterfly Media's YouTube channel to check out The Women in the Arena's sister podcasts, including Iron Butterfly Podcast.To support The Women in the Arena Podcast, visit our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWomenintheArenaPodcastTo learn more about Iron Butterfly Media, check out our website: https://www.ironbutterflymedia.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.