The Voice of Women Podcast Episodes: Women's Interesting and Inspiring Real Life Stories
Episode 194 - Justina Pembleton
Justina Lynn Pembleton is a Canadian author, former journalist, and survivor-advocate whose writing is defined by its raw honesty and emotional depth. A graduate of Sheridan College’s Journalism program, she spent years telling other people’s stories before turning to her own—a deeply personal journey shaped by her lived experience with sexual assault.
Her debut memoir, Shades of Shame: A Memoir of Survival, Healing, and Rising From the Darkness, explores the silence, shame, and resilience that so many survivors carry. Written like a novel but rooted in truth, the book gives voice to the unspoken realities of trauma while illuminating the strength it takes to heal and reclaim one’s voice.
Beyond the page, Justina is committed to breaking the silence around sexual assault and creating space for survivors to be seen, heard, and validated. When she isn’t writing or speaking, she finds grounding in the forests of Western Ontario, where she often hikes with her golden retriever, Piper.
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Episode 193 - Tanya Eklund
In this episode, Tanya Eklund shares her inspiring journey to becoming a published children’s book author with her debut story, I’m More Than Just a Warthog. Written from the heart, Tanya’s book explores the important themes of bullying, belonging, and the power of kindness. Through a heartfelt and relatable story, she encourages young readers to embrace who they are and to lead with compassion and courage—even in the face of adversity. I’m More Than Just a Warthog invites meaningful conversations between children, parents, and educators about empathy, inclusion, and standing up for what’s right. This project wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible partnership and guidance of Denise Summers, whose support helped bring Tanya’s vision to life in the most meaningful way. Tanya’s inspiring debut is available now on Amazon.
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Episode 192 - Ray Epstein
Ray Epstein is a survivor, student activist, and legislative advocate reshaping how institutions respond to sexual violence. After experiencing abuse at 13 and being silenced by her school, she turned her pain into purpose—founding Student Activists Against Sexual Assault (SAASA) at Temple University, now over 500 members strong. She co-authored Pennsylvania’s Every Voice Bill, written by student survivors for student survivors, and has secured nearly $400,000 to fund prevention initiatives, including a groundbreaking partnership with Uber Social Impact. Through testimony, keynote speeches, and national publications, Ray continues to ensure no survivor ever feels unheard, disbelieved, or alone.
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Episode 191 - Jewel Waara
Jewel Waara is a Calgary-based advocate and recent graduate in Addiction Studies, passionately using her voice to raise awareness about MRKH syndrome — a rare congenital condition she was diagnosed with at the age of 17. Born without a uterus, vaginal canal, and one kidney, Jewel has transformed her personal journey through grief, identity, and resilience into a mission of empowerment. Drawing from her lived experience and her work in community support, she is breaking the silence around invisible diagnoses, infertility, and mental health. Jewel's advocacy reminds others that they are not alone — and that their stories matter.
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Episode 190 - Jenn Harper
Jenn Harper is the founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, an Indigenous-owned and sustainability-driven cosmetics brand that’s changing the face of beauty—literally. A proud Anishinaabe woman from Northwest Angle #33 First Nation, Jenn is known for weaving Indigenous wisdom, sustainability, and bold innovation into every aspect of her business. Since her groundbreaking appearance on CBC’s Dragon’s Den in 2019, she has become a powerful voice for Indigenous youth and representation in beauty. From launching the first Indigenous Innovation Lab to formulating clean products that honour both people and the planet, Jenn’s mission is clear: to inspire future generations by showing what’s possible when you lead with purpose and identity.
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Episode 189 - Violeta Rangel
Violeta Rangel is a resilient force of nature, a woman who’s turned adversity into purpose. From experiencing poverty and homelessness in Mexico as a child to rebuilding her life as a single mother across three countries, her journey is one of reinvention, courage, and unwavering determination. After leaving behind a life she built in Amsterdam, Violeta started over in Canada with her two-year-old and no safety net — just hope and grit. Today, she empowers women to rise above their circumstances, believe in their inner strength, and boldly rewrite their stories.
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Episode 188 - Vicki Tyler
Vicki Tyler is a fearless leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for bold living. Surviving two near-death experiences, she defied the odds—transforming from a backpacker to President of Flight Centre USA and later building a thriving real estate development company in LA. Drawing from corporate leadership, behavioral science, and her own resilience, she created the .045% Mindset, a powerful framework to help ambitious women break self-doubt and take fearless action. Passionate about impact, Vicki has led initiatives from building homes in Mexico to empowering women in surf communities. She believes life is short, connections matter, and bold goals are meant to be chased.
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Episode 187 - Joumana & Mariam Moallem
Joumana Moallem is the devoted mother of Mariam, who lives with a chronic case of Sickle Cell Disease. As her primary caregiver, Joumana has dedicated her life to ensuring her daughter’s health and happiness while navigating the daily challenges of this complex illness. Together, Joumana and her daughter are passionate about raising awareness of Sickle Cell Disease. By sharing their journey, Mariam hopes to inspire others with her resilience, while Joumana highlights the strength and sacrifices of caregiving. Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of advocacy and love in overcoming life’s obstacles.
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Episode 186 - Ellen Silverman
After 30 years as a Wall Street analyst, Ellen Silverman traded finance for real estate, bringing her sharp analytical skills and passion for people to the competitive NYC market. For the past eight years, she has helped buyers, sellers, and renters navigate Manhattan’s fast-paced landscape with a strategic yet personal approach. Ellen understands that real estate is more than transactions—it’s about life’s biggest decisions. Whether negotiating a multimillion-dollar deal or guiding first-time buyers, she makes the process seamless and rewarding. A true New Yorker, she finds energy in the city’s hidden gems, Central Park strolls, and the thrill of helping clients find their perfect home.
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Episode 185 - Holly Carroll
Holly Carroll is a #1 Best-Selling Author, Luxury Realtor, and Mentor dedicated to empowering women to unlock their full potential. As Managing Director of The Agency Muskoka, she’s built a thriving real estate career fueled by confidence, resilience, and personal transformation. A former Miss Canada, Holly leverages her platform to champion philanthropy and mentorship, helping others overcome self-sabotage and step into their power. She’s the founder of Women Empower Women Co. and Finding The Beauty Within, which helps young women build self-worth and confidence. Her book, Closing Deals in Heels, reveals the untold story of her rise in real estate, sharing powerful insights on overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing vulnerability. Holly’s mission is to inspire others to discover their true calling, embrace their highest selves, and shine brightly for all to see.
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