Laurie McGraw, Executive Vice President, Transcarent
Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate progress, honor achievements, and reflect on the work still ahead on the journey toward gender equity. It’s an opportunity to recognize the changemakers whose leadership and perseverance continue to shape our industries, communities, and futures.
This is also the season of well-deserved recognition - those powerful lists showcasing trailblazers who are making a difference. Stephanie Peng, our CFO, ringing the NASDAQ bell. Erica Davila, our General Counsel, recognized as a trailblazing executive shaping the legal industry. Caitlin Fleming, our Chief Strategy Officer, named the most admired woman in Maine. And yes, even I had my own brief, ten seconds of fame for my work in the boardroom. Recognition is important, but it is the work that truly matters.
The Work of Women Leaders Has Never Been More Important
Today, we find ourselves navigating a world where policy, political, and social shifts are creating new and renewed headwinds for women. According to the world gender equity clock, we are still five generations away from achieving gender parity. Even more concerning, recent setbacks threaten to push that timeline further back.
Yes, these realities are daunting. But for me, reflection brings resolve. Resolve to act, to connect, and to inspire.
This year’s official Women’s History Month theme - “Moving Forward Together” - feels particularly relevant. Progress happens when we uplift one another, when we share knowledge, and when we inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Four Years of Elevating Women’s Voices
March 8th marks four years since I launched the Inspiring Women podcast, a passion project with a clear purpose: to elevate the voices of women leaders. Every week, I speak with incredible women at all stages of their careers - some at the pinnacle, others just beginning.
Why? Because in health and care, where women make 80% of the decisions - as caregivers, as advocates, as patients - only 20% of leadership roles are held by women. This needs to change. When more women lead, we create a more just and equitable society. Full stop.
After hosting more than 200 episodes, I’ve learned a few key lessons from these powerful conversations:
Every leader has someone who inspired them. Whether it was a mentor, a sponsor, or a challenger, someone invested in their success with time, honesty, and support.
The best leaders stay curious. Growth never stops, and learning is constant.
Success isn’t a destination. The best leaders focus not on the title, but on the impact, the work, and the results they drive.
A Call to Action: Celebrate, Support, and Lead
So, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s amplify the voices and honor the accomplishments of the extraordinary women around us.
And for those who feel the weight of the challenges still ahead, this is not the time to despair. Recognize the obstacles but have resolve. Support, push, lead, inspire, and be inspired. Together, we honor the past, embrace the present, and shape a future where every woman’s potential can be realized.
