Speaking of Phenomenal Podcast
I’m Amy Boyle, your host, photographer, and multimedia journalist. Since 2018, I’ve been celebrating the greatness of women through the 52 Phenomenal Women project. We often forget to celebrate our unique strengths, but that changes now! This podcast is all about sharing powerful stories and uplifting phenomenal women everywhere. Join me as we embrace what makes us extraordinary and support each other when it matters most. Thank you for being part of this community. You are phenomenal! Connect with Us: Website: www.52phenomenalwomen.com
Episodes
Kari Fagin is shaping a future where curiosity connects generations. As a Director at the Osher National Resource Center, she supports 124 OLLI programs nationwide, creating spaces for adults 50+ to thrive—and collaborate with students and younger learners on campus. In this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal, we explore how lifelong learning fosters health, connection, and purpose a...
On this episode of the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, Tonika Lewis Johnson opens up about growing up in Englewood, the roots of her Folded Map Project, and why disrupting segregation starts with something as simple as running errands in a new neighborhood. Her story is proof that art, truth, and community care can transform policy—and hearts.
MUSIC (used with permission)
WOMAN Performed by Tiffany Villarreal - Pod artwork ...
In this week’s Speaking of Phenomenal with host Amy Boyle, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Mary Schmich and marketing executive Melissa Harris share the story behind Division Street Revisited, their podcast inspired by Studs Terkel’s Division Street: America. Out of 71 original interviews, they revisited 7—including 4 remarkable women: Blanche Gates, Della Reuther, Mary Ward Wolkonsky and Myra Alexander. Their lives reflect resili...
In this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal, Dr. Anna Tess shares her journey from a profound hearing loss diagnosis to becoming a leader in deaf education. As FHSR's Education Coordinator, Anna offers vital insights for families navigating hearing loss, from IEP support to music therapy. Her story is a testament to resilience and advocacy. Listen to understand how inclusive education, early intervention, and empowered families ...
In Season 5, Episode 5 of the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, host Amy Boyle celebrates Women’s History Month with reflections from past guests Maryam Myika Day, Laura Jordan LeClair, Jeanne Sparrow, and Delores Morton. These powerful voices explore what it truly means to be phenomenal—centered on truth, purpose, and lifting others up. With heartfelt stories and bold perspectives, this episode invites YOU to show up fully and suppo...
Jacqueline (Jack) Perez, founder of Kuel Life, returns to the podcast after first joining us in Season 1 of Speaking of Phenomenal. She’s on a mission to redefine midlife, creating space for women to embrace this chapter with confidence. In this episode, she shares how Kuel Life fosters community, self-acceptance, and personal growth, along with her unexpected journey into poetry as a tool for self-expression.
This conversation expl...
Jillian Melero, journalist and founder of Connect Puerto Rico, joins Speaking of Phenomenal to discuss her journey into journalism, inspired by Anthony Bourdain. She shares how Connect Puerto Rico bridges gaps between policymakers, investors, and community leaders to drive real change in renewable energy. Jillian also highlights her work on a Chicago immigration resource guide, emphasizing solution-driven reporting to create lastin...
In this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal, host Amy Boyle sits down with Laura Jordan LeClair, program director for Chicago Innovation, to unpack the power of mentorship and community in shaping careers and sparking innovation. If you're navigating career transitions, battling imposter syndrome, or seeking meaningful professional connections, this conversation is for you.
Laura shares actionable insights on identifying personal...
Broadway performer turned actor, writer and producer Maryam Myika Day joins host, Amy Boyle on Speaking of Phenomenal to share how storytelling has shaped her journey through grief, motherhood, and reinvention. She opens up about losing her husband, navigating Hollywood, and why amplifying marginalized voices matters. Plus, hear about her initiative North of 40—a space for navigating life’s transitions. If you're looking for i...
In the season finale of Speaking of Phenomenal, host Amy Boyle chats with Delores Morton, CEO of Step Up, as she shares her inspiring journey and leadership in empowering girls and young women ages 18-29. Learn how Step Up’s innovative flash mentoring model and expanded programs help participants become confident, connected, and career-focused. Delores discusses navigating challenges, securing federal funding, and creating lasting ...
In Season 4, Episode 11 of Speaking of Phenomenal, host Amy Boyle talks to 7-time Emmy-winning host and fearless leadership expert Jeanne Sparrow shares insights on delivering your authentic value. From visionary leadership to inspiring speaking, Jeanne empowers you to lead, sell, and communicate effectively. Discover actionable strategies to unlock your potential and embrace fearless authenticity.
Every moment in life...
In this special Thanksgiving episode, Amy reflects on how losing her mom three years ago profoundly reshaped her understanding of gratitude. She explores how gratitude isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges but finding strength and meaning in them. By holding space for both joy and grief, Amy reveals how authentic gratitude can anchor us during life’s storms.
Tune in to discover a new perspective on gratitude, one that acknowledges ...
Host Amy Boyle sits down with Sarah Harris, a transnational adoptee, midlife mother, and blogger at Makes Me Wander. Sarah shares her journey of embracing vulnerability, finding her story, and building authentic connections. From exploring her roots in Korea to guiding others through life's pivots, Sarah’s insights inspire listeners to reflect, write, and prioritize self-compassion. Discover how her five-week writing course fo...
In this episode, Tina Greenbaum shares her approach to achieving peak performance and handling conflict in high-pressure environments. With over 41 years of experience, Tina discusses emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and mental training, offering leaders strategies to build resilience, foster trust, and navigate complex relationships. Her “Mastery Under Pressure” framework emphasizes calm, insight, and adaptability for effec...
In this episode of the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, Carolina Baldin shares her journey from being an attorney in Brazil to becoming a freelance journalist in Chicago. She discusses the importance of curiosity in journalism, her experiences reporting on gentrification in Pilsen, and offers advice for early career journalists. Carolina emphasizes the significance of using one's voice in writing and how her background in law h...
In this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal, parent coach Dana Hirt shares insights on intentional parenting, the transition from traditional education, and navigating digital-age challenges. She explores the power of modeling values, prioritizing self-care, and preparing for the empty nest. Dana also highlights ways to avoid the comparison trap, empowering parents to lead with purpose and resilience.
MUSIC (used with permis...
In this episode of Speaking of Phenomenal, host Amy Boyle speaks with Dr. Kimberly Lloyd, a Chicago police officer and founder of We Got You Covered, a nonprofit focused on addressing the literacy gap for African-American boys. Dr. Lloyd shares her journey from education to law enforcement, the challenges faced in the education system, and the importance of literacy as a civil rights issue. She discusses the founding of her organiz...
In this episode, Amy and the BAAD girls—Barbara, Alessandra, and Debby—reconnect for a long-overdue getaway to New York City. Join them as they explore iconic spots like Central Park, The Met, and the New York Public Library. From a rooftop view over Manhattan to an inspiring Broadway performance of SUFFS, their three-day adventure is filled with laughter, reflection, and timeless memories. Tune in for travel tips and inspiration f...
In this episode of the Speaking of Phenomenal podcast, Amy Boyle interviews Susan Boensch, who has built a life centered around surfing, skating, yoga, travel, and community building in Southern California. Susan shares how her involvement in the Wahine Kai Women's Surf Club transformed her life, offering valuable lessons on embracing new experiences, finding joy in community, and living with purpose. Listen in for inspiration...
In this episode, Amy Boyle talks with Krissie McMenamin about reclaiming creativity and embracing authenticity. Krissie discusses her Finnish roots and RAGEher, an event that helps women express anger in transformative ways. She emphasizes the importance of community, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness in empowering women to live fully. Tune in for insights on connecting with emotions and fostering creative potential.
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