Women running for elected office is an important conversation. But what about the women who wield political power without ever appearing on a ballot?

Katie Telford spent nearly a decade at the centre of Canadian politics as chief of staff to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, helping steer the government through election victories, cabinet changes, a global pandemic and economic uncertainty. Now, looking back on those years, she’s reflecting on leadership, public service, growing political polarization and what it means to navigate power as a woman.

Jen and Catherine sit down with Telford to talk about life behind the scenes of the highest levels of government, the pressures of political leadership and what a decade in the thick of it taught her.

Women running for elected office is an important conversation. But what about the women who wield political power without ever appearing on a ballot?
Katie Telford spent nearly a decade at the centre of Canadian politics as chief of staff to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, helping steer the government through election victories, cabinet changes, a global pandemic and economic uncertainty. Now, looking back on those years, she&rsquo;s reflecting on leadership, public service, growing political polarization and what it means to navigate power as a woman.
Jen and Catherine sit down with Telford to talk about life behind the scenes of the highest levels of government, the pressures of political leadership and what a decade in the thick of it taught her.

The Honest Talk is a Canadian podcast for women who are looking for more––out of themselves, out of their businesses and elected leaders, and out of the world around them. Join hosts Jennifer Stewart and Catherine Clark, as they interview North America’s most influential and inspiring women. Their guests are famous TV hosts and journalists, entrepreneurs and business leaders, and politicians. They break down silos so women can connect through shared stories, experiences and also our differences.

The Honest Talk is a Canadian podcast for women who are looking for more&ndash;&ndash;out of themselves, out of their businesses and elected leaders, and out of the world around them. Join hosts Jennifer Stewart and Catherine Clark, as they interview North America&rsquo;s most influential and inspiring women. Their guests are famous TV hosts and journalists, entrepreneurs and business leaders, and politicians. They break down silos so women can connect through shared stories, experiences and also our differences.