Post-Election Special: Turning Setbacks into Strengths with Frédérique Campagne Irwin, Maggie O’Neill, and Tiffany Shlain

The outcome of the recent U.S. presidential election has left many feeling like the fight for equality has been dealt a heavy blow. But in times like these, it’s important to remember that progress is never linear, and movements are not defined by setbacks, but by how we respond to them. 

In this special post-election episode of Smart, Amazing Conversations with Dr. Nancy, we’ve invited three thought leaders on the frontlines of the gender equity movement to help us process this moment, find clarity in the chaos, and chart a path forward.  

Today’s guests include: Frédérique Campagne Irwin, President and CEO of the National Women’s History Museum; Maggie O’Neill, artist, designer, entrepreneur, activist, and creator of the Vote For Your Daughter project; and Tiffany Shlain, renowned artist, author, activist, and filmmaker.

Let’s listen as they help us turn discouragement into determination to keep pushing toward the change we know is possible. 

Show Notes:

Dr. Nancy O’Reilly’s candid conversation with Frédérique Campagne Irwin, Maggie O’Neill, and Tiffany Shlain explores the repercussions of the recent U.S. presidential election and its impact on gender equality. The discussion highlights the unsettling influence of political branding, analyzes the strength of the Trump brand, examines a lack of awareness around equal rights for women, and promotes the importance of education. Their conversation also looks at the ways setbacks—like the election—should be met with strategic responses and creative advocacy. Emphasizing the need for positive storytelling and the involvement of artists to inspire action, enhance awareness, and mobilize support for gender equality, this episode is a rallying call to unite, gather resources, and continue pushing forward with innovative efforts to achieve lasting change.

Frédérique Campagne Irwin
Frédérique Campagne Irwin is the President and CEO of the National Women’s History Museum through which she has dedicated herself to showcasing the significant role of women in shaping American history and culture. Her 25 years of experience represents successes in strategic management, non-profit and commercial business, impact, and entrepreneurship.

The National Women’s History Museum (NWHM) was founded in 1996 as a pioneering online platform dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the multifaceted contributions of women to society. 

Maggie O’Neill
Maggie O’Neill is an artist-activist who strongly believes that art can support and drive societal change. Having contributed to the vibrant arts scene of Washington D.C. for more than two decades, her newest project, Vote For Your Daughter, leverages the visual and emotional impact of 51 statues – each representing a different state and the District of Columbia. The statues were designed to educate voters about the challenges facing women and girls in the United States today, and spark conversation, foster empathy, and inspire action.

Tiffany Shlain
Tiffany Shlain is an artist, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, celebrated author, and founder of the Webby Awards. Tiffany’s films and work have received over eighty awards and distinctions, including being selected for the Albert Einstein Foundation’s Genius: 100 Visions of the Future and being honored by Newsweek as one of the “Women Shaping the 21st Century.” Her work spans feminism, philosophy, technology, neuroscience, and the wonders of nature. Her creative canvas includes film, art, and performance.
 

Episode Timestamps

• [00:01:05] – Dr. Nancy introduces the episode, focusing on the impact of the recent U.S. presidential election on gender equality and the importance of responding to setbacks.
• [00:04:06] – Maggie O’Neill shares her experience at a DC art fair, describing the post-election atmosphere and the branding of political figures.
• [00:07:08] – Maggie continues discussing the influence of branding in politics and the lack of visibility for certain political figures.
• [00:11:31] – Frédérique talks about the atmosphere in DC, the concerns of local residents, and the National Women’s History Museum’s response to the election.
• [00:13:32] – Frédérique shares personal stories from donors and emphasizes the importance of remembering women’s historical responses to adversity.
• [00:17:42] – Dr. Nancy encourages continued advocacy and highlights the achievements of women throughout history.
• [00:19:22] – Dr. Nancy discusses the potential for legislative progress, getting the ERA published before January, and the importance of leaving a legacy for future generations.
• [00:21:02] – Maggie O’Neill speaks about Women voted for the brand and didn’t want to fight with their husbands. They need to feel the effects of what they voted for.
• [00:23:15] – Tiffany reflects on the need for creative outlets and the importance of strategic responses to political changes.
• [00:26:54] – Frédérique discusses the need for a cause campaign to address gender equality directed toward all women and the urgency of increasing women’s representation in key areas.
• [00:32:43] – Dr. Nancy emphasizes focusing on positive aspects and building on what’s working to create a better future.
• [00:37:36] – Tiffany talks about the delay in counting West Coast votes, how the numbers are approaching 50-50, and how accurate voting statistics can be used to lift up how people feel and create positive change.
• [00:41:12] – Dr. Nancy encourages collaboration and using combined resources to continue the fight for gender equality.
• [00:46:59] – Closing remarks from Dr. Nancy, encouraging continued efforts and collaboration among the guests.