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Welcome to Smart, Amazing Conversations with Dr. Nancy, a podcast that examines the stories of life and leadership for smart, amazing women (and men). Each episode features powerful conversations with people who are changing the world and making a difference in their communities. Our guests share their personal stories, insights, and advice on how to break through barriers and achieve success and, in the process, provide access to new ideas, resources, and expertise that can expand opportunities for us all.
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Show Notes:
In this episode Darcy J. Totten, interim executive director of the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls, discusses the critical economic and social challenges women face, particularly emphasized by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Nancy and Darcy explore the disproportionate job losses and childcare burdens, the persistent pay gap, and the severe impact it all has, especially on women of color. Darcy highlights the necessity for solidarity in politics and collaborations with institutions like Mount Saint Mary’s University to address gender equity. The episode underscores the importance of participation in local and national political processes, promoting initiatives like the “Promote the Vote” campaign, and utilizing a gender lens to solve problems.
About Darcy J. Totten:
Darcy Totten, the Interim Executive Director at the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls, excels in crisis communications, journalism, public policy, and external affairs. With over two decades of experience, she has effectively managed the Commission during transformative periods, including her roles as Interim Director of Operations and Director of External Affairs. Notably, she led initiatives aimed at supporting women’s economic recovery post-COVID-19, culminating in the award-winning California Women’s Economic Blueprint for Pandemic Recovery. Beyond her role at the Commission, Darcy co-founded Activism Articulated, a crisis communications firm in Sacramento focused on progressive causes. She also offers media training and consultation services to organizations and community groups. Her commitment to social impact, coalition-building, and inclusivity underscores her dedication to fostering a more equitable society.
About the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls:
For over 50 years, the California Commission on the Status of Women & Girls has identified and worked to eliminate inequities in state laws, practices and conditions affecting California’s women and girls. Established as a state agency with 17 appointed commissioners in 1965, the Commission regularly assesses gender equity in health, safety, employment, education and equal representation, the military, and the media. The Commission provides leadership through research, policy and program development, education, outreach and collaboration, advocacy and strategic partnerships.
Episode Timestamp:
00:00 Darcy J. Totten is introduced and shares the story of her journey
06:11 Balancing work and caregiving revealed the impact of gender and lack of support systems.
07:00 Founded company to manage crises during community protests and women’s march.
09:53 Contributed to Status on Women and Girls Report, led to COVID recovery program.
13:38 Pandemic and economic impact, recovery and investment.
14:08 Hopeful for women’s equality, time of opportunity but big challenges remain.
18:11 It has to be all of us for all of us. We have to do solidarity politics correctly.
21:21 Continue educating about the impact of ERA in Constitution on everyone.
23:00 ERA shows how race and gender discrimination work together to increase the pay gap.
27:05 Expand perspectives, unite for common causes, encourage women to vote.
29:37 Using gender lens to analyze issues since nothing is gender neutral.
35:14.Working together women make a way where there was no way.
36:34 Get involved and show up for one another.