Altynai Osmo - Creativity, Resilience and Supporting one another
In this episode, we had the privilege of talking with Altynai, a gifted artist from Kyrgyzstan, whose story is a powerful reminder to stay true to your passion—even when it feels like the path is not straight. Altynai shares what it’s like to be a woman creating art in a place where creative paths aren’t always supported, and how sisterhood and solidarity across the globe can spark hope and inspiration.She talks about the incredible support she received from people around her—mentors, teachers, multiple parents —and how that encouragement changed the course of her life. It reminded us that one of the most powerful ways we can make the world better is by uplifting and educating women everywhere. When we invest in women’s education and creativity, we help entire communities thrive.We also loved hearing what a regular day looks like for her and realizing how—even though our lives may look different—we’re all grappling with many of the same struggles and aspirations. It’s a heartfelt exchange about creativity, resilience, and the ripple effect of supporting one another. Don’t miss it.
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Finding, Fighting for and Fueling Your Voice
Your voice is powerful—but finding it, fighting for it, and fueling it is a journey. In this episode of News from the Peak, we dive into what it means to truly own your voice, whether in personal struggles, professional challenges, or creative pursuits.Our Grays Peak Strategies teammate Shantelle Williams shares her personal journey of overcoming domestic violence and the fight to protect her business from a multibillion-dollar company. These experiences have taught her that finding her voice is just the beginning—standing firm and nurturing it is what creates lasting change.
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Moving Forward Together: Lessons from Women Around the World
As we celebrate International Women's Day and Women's History Month 2025, the theme "Moving Forward Together" reminds us of the power of women educating and inspiring generations. This year, my colleague Gemma Hilario from Killarney, Ireland, and I had the privilege of interviewing women from Italy, Brazil, New Zealand, and Ireland. Despite the vast distances between us, common themes emerged in our conversations—proof that, regardless of location, culture, or background, women share a collective strength and vision for the future.Hosted by Gemma Hilario and Maureen Leif, Our guests include Juliana Peixinho, and Paula Knaap, Claudia Cannizzaro, and then Claudia interviews Gemma to close out the show. Please check out the News from the Peak section of our website for much more information on our guests and this episode ..
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Shamrocks and Strategy - A conversation with Gemma Hilario
Maureen Leif and Liz Bullard welcome our friend from Ireland for her first of what we hope will be many appearances on our show. The three talk about executive coaching, leadership, and facing the world with positivity and grace.
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Family Equality Matters: A Deep Dive into Parentage Laws with Meg York and Nesta Johnson
In this episode, Maureen Leif welcomes special guests Meg York and Nesta Johnson. This episode delves into the crucial topic of parentage laws and their impact on same-sex families. Â
Meg York, representing Family Equality, and Nesta Johnson from the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), bring their expertise and advocacy experience to the table, discussing the importance of clear and inclusive parentage laws. They explore how these laws can support the recognition and rights of all families, regardless of sexual orientation.Â
York and Johnson highlight recent advancements and ongoing challenges in ensuring that same-sex parents receive equal treatment under the law. They also share insights from their collaborative work and the latest reports, including the 2023 Parentage Report by MAP Research and the policy guidance on same-sex parents and child support program requirements by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. They both have such deep and amazing experience in this space yet make everything so personal and accessible for those are not as proficient.Â
Produced by Grays Peak Strategies, a conversation about news that impacts the Human Services Community. We will feature some interviews with human service professionals and people from related fields.
The music at the beginning and end of each episode is written and performed by Joe Mamlin. (Don't forget to listen to the end... there are often surprises after the credits)
New Zealand