In this week's episode, I have the pleasure of discussing with Larissa Martinez, the woman behind the Women's Public Leadership Network, about the intricacies of women's voting behaviors and the emergence of female figures like Nikki Haley in the political sphere. We explore the reasons behind low voter turnout among women and the unique challenges faced by women who choose to step up as candidates, especially in the conservative arena. Our conversation also touches on the crucial impact women have in politics and the importance of engaging in primary elections, with a particular emphasis on the disappointing statistics in Massachusetts.

Larissa Martinez is not just the founder of the Women's Public Leadership Network but also an influential advocate for greater female participation in the public sphere. Drawing from her wealth of experience supporting women's engagement in politics, she offers nuanced insights into the obstacles and expectations unique to female political contenders. Her expertise is especially poignant as they discuss the treatment of women in politics, the role of mentorship and support, and the impact of leadership figures on young women and girls.

“Despite the chaos of our day-to-day lives, we, as women, have a responsibility to make room for voting—it's a right that was hard-won and is now imperative to exercise.” –

Larissa Martinez

This Week on Political Contessa:

• Women's engagement in the political process, from voting to running for office, is crucial to shaping a government that truly represents our society.
• Time constraints and the desire for complete knowledge can deter women's political activities, but these should not stop us from participating.
• Partaking in primaries is as important as general elections, if not more so, and we need to boost our turnout.
• Women in politics are held to higher standards, requiring them not just to participate, but to demonstrate outstanding leadership.
• The way political figures, like Nikki Haley, can serve as role models has a profound effect on the aspirations of young girls.
• The integrity of public servants is of the utmost importance, and it's our duty as voters to hold them accountable—especially in their conduct towards women.
• When choosing whom to vote for, it's vital to look beyond policy stances to consider a candidate's overall capabilities and ethos.
• Our conversation today serves as a reminder of the latent power that women hold in both the voting booth and beyond, as community leaders and entrepreneurs.

Connect with Larissa Martinez:

Women's Public Leadership Network

LinkedIn

Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts

Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.