Empowering Women to Lead

Leadership at 30,000 Feet: The Journey of Captain Patty Tomich

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Captain Patty Tomich, who has been flying for 40 years—30 of those with Alaska Airlines. Patty shares how her childhood fascination with airplanes in Lima, Peru, sparked a lifelong passion for aviation, and how her journey through Embry-Riddle to the captain’s seat shaped her leadership.
She reminds us that in aviation, leadership starts from day one: “The aircraft doesn’t know if it’s a man or a woman at the controls—it only knows if you’re prepared to take command.”
From balancing family and career to mentoring the next generation of women pilots, Patty’s story is full of courage, sacrifice, and inspiration. Whether you’re curious about aviation or need encouragement to step into your own purpose, this conversation will lift you higher.
To learn more about the Purpose Journey, go to www.rutheasterling.org/purposecoaching

Empowering Women to Lead: Women Leading in IT with Elizabeth Whiteside

Elizabeth shares her journey from starting in a call center to leading major technology projects, and the pivotal moment when she realized leadership meant not just identifying problems but stepping forward with solutions.
She opens up about navigating male-dominated spaces, the importance of raising your hand and using your voice, and the need for women to step into decision-making with confidence. We also dive into the challenges of mentorship in IT, how the pandemic reshaped opportunities for women, and the ways Elizabeth is mentoring the next generation of women in STEM.
Her story is both practical and inspiring—a reminder that leadership grows when we step up, speak out, and support others along the way.
“In the last 10 years, the idea that you can be your authentic self—and that the world needs your authentic self—means everything to me. Show up as you, because you are important.”
To find out more about Elizabeth and the Purpose Journey, go to www.rutheasterling.org/purposecoaching

Empowering Women From the Tarmac to the Top: Judy McMurtry

In this powerful episode of Empowering Women to Lead, we sit down with Judy McMurtry, a trailblazing leader who rose through the ranks of the airline industry with relentless determination, a people-first leadership style, and unshakable confidence. From her childhood in Detroit during the 1967 riots to managing major U.S. airports, Judy shares how persistence, personal growth, and a refusal to give up helped her break barriers in a male-dominated field.
She opens up about what it takes to lead in high-pressure environments, how to bring people together across differences, and why women must stop waiting for permission and make their own seat at the table.
Quote Worth Remembering:
“You don't have to wait for a seat at the table—you make the table and bring others with you.” – Judy Phenomenal
Listeners will walk away inspired to lead with purpose, challenge limiting beliefs, and step confidently into positions of influence—no matter where they start.
To connect with Judy: https://excelwithjudy.com/
To connect with our website and find out more information on the Purpose Journey, go to www.rutheasterling.org

Empowering Women to Lead – With Kristen Becker

In this episode, I sit down with architect and entrepreneur Kristen Becker, founder of Mutuus Studio in Seattle. Kristen shares her powerful journey from childhood adversity to a career in professional dance, and ultimately to becoming a successful female business owner in the male-dominated field of architecture.
We dive into how her background in teaching dance has shaped her unique communication style as a leader, how she built a holistic, people-first studio model that supports families and promotes work-life balance, and why mentorship—especially for women—is essential to creating change. Kristen also opens up about the moment she realized she didn’t need to hide motherhood to be professional and how bringing her whole self to work became a game-changer.
“Our biggest challenge is often ourselves holding us back… You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the first step.” – Kristen Becker
She leaves us with a nautical mantra: “Sailing full and by”—a beautiful metaphor for pushing to the edge of your potential and staying open to the wind of life, even when it doesn’t take you in a straight line.
Key Topics:
Leading in male-dominated industries
Embracing authenticity in business and leadership
Work-life integration, not just balance
The power of mentorship and modeling leadership
Starting before you're ready
This episode is a must-listen for any woman navigating leadership, entrepreneurship, or the decision to step fully into who she is, without compromise.
🎧 Listen now, share with a friend, and don’t forget to subscribe to empower more women to lead boldly and authentically.

Empowering Women to Lead with Ndidi Musa

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Dr. Ndidi Musa, pediatric cardiac intensive care specialist, professor at the University of Washington, and director of the new internal coaching program at Seattle Children’s Hospital. We dive into her powerful journey through medicine, leadership, and her calling to build a coaching culture in healthcare.
Dr. Musa opens up about breaking barriers as a woman and minority in academic medicine, the critical role of mentors, sponsors, and coaches, and how cultivating a growth mindset transformed her career path. She shares eye-opening insights about the gender gap in surgery and leadership, the importance of deliberate effort, and how women can advocate for themselves and others.
Whether you're in medicine, leadership, or simply looking for motivation to step into your own potential, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and real-world strategies for growth.
Key Takeaways:
Why every leader needs a coach, mentor, and sponsor
The power of sponsorship and speaking names in rooms where others aren’t yet invited
How gratitude and a growth mindset create lasting transformation
How women can rise—and help others rise—with confidence and purpose
Quotes:
"You have to have a coach, a mentor, and a sponsor to thrive in medicine—and in life." – Dr. Ndidi Musa
 "Sometimes we underestimate our potential. But when we write down what we’ve actually accomplished, we surprise ourselves." – Dr. Ndidi Musa
"Gratitude fuels growth. When you’re thankful for the small steps, the next opportunity reveals itself." – Dr. Nidi Musa
Contact:
Dr. Musa website: https://www.seattlechildrens.org/directory/ndidi-musa/
Purpose Journey: www.rutheasterling.org
Tune in and be empowered to lead—wherever you are.

Empowering Women to Lead with Katherine Caffrey

Raise Your Hand for the Hard Stuff: Leading with Courage with Katherine Caffrey
In this episode, Ruth speaks with City Manager Katherine Caffrey about her journey into public service and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field. From discovering city management in college to leading transformational community projects, Katherine shares how mentorship, courage, and raising her hand for the tough assignments shaped her path. She opens up about the challenges women face in local government, the importance of modeling leadership for the next generation, and why boundaries matter. Her reminder? “You have to raise your hand for the hard stuff. That’s where the growth is.”
Whether you’re new to leadership or already paving the way for others, this episode will inspire you to lead boldly—even when it feels uncertain.
Want to connect with Katherine and start living with purpose?
If you want to connect with Katherine, you can find her on the Des Moines City Website.  Also, you can connect at kcaffrey@desmoineswa.gov
Visit the website www.rutheasterling.org/purposejourney to get in touch and learn more about The Purpose Journey — a powerful six-month coaching program designed to help you discover who you are, why you’re here, and how to live it out with confidence and clarity.
If you want to be on our podcast or you know someone who would make a great guest please let us know.

Empowering Women to Lead with Susan Enfield

In this inspiring episode, host Ruth Easterling sits down with longtime educator and former superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield to explore what it truly means to lead with courage, authenticity, and resilience. From navigating public leadership during the COVID-19 crisis to overcoming gender bias in executive roles, Susan shares honest stories and powerful lessons from her leadership journey.
Together, we discuss:
The importance of women supporting women in leadership
Taking risks—even when the outcome is uncertain
How to face criticism with strength and grace
The power of reframing failure as growth
And why unapologetic advocacy for other women matters
💬 Quote Worth Remembering
“You don’t lead to be liked. You lead to make a difference.”— Dr. Susan Enfield
This powerful reminder challenges us to lead with conviction, even when it's uncomfortable or unpopular. True leadership is grounded in purpose, not approval.
🤝 Connect with Dr. Susan Enfield
While Susan does not currently maintain a public website, you can:
Follow her professional updates on LinkedIn
Read her published articles and interviews on education equity and leadership via education publications like Education Week and AASA
For speaking or consulting inquiries, you can message her directly via LinkedIn
Explore the Purpose Journey – Ready to align your values with your leadership? Check out our Purpose Journey Program to discover your next step. https://www.rutheasterling.org/purposecoaching 

Empowering Women to Lead with Traci Buxton

In this episode of Empowering Women to Lead, we sit down with Mayor Traci Buxton of Des Moines, Washington—a woman who never set out to become a politician but answered the call to serve her community when the opportunity arose.
From raising four children to running city council meetings, Traci’s leadership journey is a story of humility, courage, and purpose. What makes her stand out isn’t just her title, but her mindset: She leads by building bridges, not building ladders.
🔹 Episode Highlights
From Unexpected Candidate to MayorTraci shares how she transitioned from community volunteer and "wrestling van mom" to running for city council—and eventually being elected mayor. What started as a friend’s suggestion became a new mission.
Purpose-Driven LeadershipFor Traci, leadership isn’t about climbing a hierarchy; it’s about carrying a message, casting a vision, and creating a plan. Her focus? Helping others succeed and building consensus without losing her authenticity.
Bridge-Building in ActionWhether she’s leading policy discussions or helping a resident navigate a community issue, Traci’s superpower is her ability to connect—person to person, heart to heart. She's passionate about listening deeply, finding solutions, and never humiliating others in public discourse.
Handling Criticism with GraceTraci shares her approach to public backlash, especially on social media: respond with kindness, focus on shared purpose, and never waste energy on offense. Her mantra? “Don’t kick dirt on the playground. Move the conversation forward.”
Empowering Other Women to LeadTraci reminds us that most women need to be invited—multiple times—before they step into leadership. She challenges listeners to be that invitation for others. And if you're waiting for a sign to lead, she says: “This is number one. Go find number two and three.”
💡 Quote Worth Remembering
“It doesn’t take intelligence as much as it takes grit and determination. Just don’t give up.”—Mayor Traci Buxton
🎯 Key Takeaways
Leadership is service, not status.
Connection and curiosity open more doors than control and criticism.
Resilience means redirecting, not retreating.
Empowerment starts with an invitation—to ourselves and to others.
📩 Want to Learn More?
If you’re thinking about stepping into leadership—whether in your community, business, or your own personal journey—Traci’s story offers insight, encouragement, and real-life strategy.
💌 Connect with Mayor Traci Buxton – If you'd like to ask questions or explore what it takes to serve, connect with TBuxton@desmoineswa.gov
💡 Explore the Purpose Journey – Ready to align your values with your leadership? Check out our Purpose Journey Program to discover your next step. https://www.rutheasterling.org/purposecoaching 
🎧 Listen to the episode and share it with a woman who needs to hear: You are capable, you are needed, and you are invited to lead.

Backstory to Podcast

Empowering Women to Lead was born at Raisbeck Aviation High School in Seattle, Washington. The vision came to life through conversations with school leadership about the ongoing challenges women face in breaking the glass ceiling, particularly in STEM fields. As we shared stories, it became clear these struggles extended far beyond one industry or location. This inspired the creation of a podcast where women’s voices, experiences, and leadership journeys could be heard and celebrated.
More than just a platform, this podcast also became an opportunity to mentor the next generation, involving students in the process of recording, editing, and storytelling. We hope that these stories not only empower you on your journey but also inspire you to lift others as you rise.

Backstory to Podcast- Empowering Women to Lead

Empowering Women to Lead was born at Raisbeck Aviation High School in Seattle, Washington. The vision came to life through conversations with school leadership about the ongoing challenges women face in breaking the "glass ceiling" in the STEM world.
As we shared stories, it became clear these struggles extended far beyond one industry or location. This inspired the creation of a podcast where women’s voices, experiences, and leadership journeys could be heard and celebrated.
More than just a platform, this podcast also became an opportunity to mentor the next generation, involving students in the process of recording, editing, and storytelling. Our hope is that these stories not only empower you on your journey but also inspire you to lift others as you rise.