HerMoney Podcast Summary: Ep 486 - "The Confidence to Run: Lessons from Women Leading Local Government"

Podcast Information:

• Title: HerMoney with Jean Chatzky
• Host: Jean Chatzky
• Episode: Ep 486: The Confidence to Run: Lessons from Women Leading Local Government
• Release Date: July 30, 2025
• Description: This episode delves into the surge of young women entering local government, exploring the unique challenges they face and the strategies they employ to overcome them. Featuring insights from Amanda Littman, co-founder of Run for Something, and Sarah Pierce, the first woman elected as mayor of Watertown, New York.

1. Introduction to a New Generation of Leaders

Jean Chatzky opens the episode by highlighting a significant shift in local politics, exemplified by the recent success of Zoran Mandani, a 33-year-old Democratic socialist who defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo to become the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor. Chatzky underscores the impact of Mandani's grassroots campaign, which was driven by over 50,000 volunteers and advocated bold policies like rent freezes and city-run grocery stores.

Jean Chatzky [00:21]: “This wasn't just a political upset, this was a wake up call. It was a reminder that young people aren't just talking about change, they're making change.”

She emphasizes the importance of young leaders, particularly women, in shaping essential aspects of society such as neighborhoods, schools, budgets, and rights.

2. The Significance of Youth Engagement in Politics

Amanda Littman, co-founder and executive director of Run for Something, discusses the implications of Mandani's campaign success. She expresses excitement over the surge in young individuals aspiring to run for office, noting that since Mandani's victory, over 10,000 young people have shown interest in political candidacy—a milestone comparable only to the aftermath of Trump's 2016 election.

Amanda Littman [05:21]: “Run for Something has seen more than 10,000 young people raise their hands to say they want to run for office, too. It's our biggest organic candidate recruitment moment in the history of Run for Something.”

3. Breaking Stereotypes: Qualifications to Run for Office

The conversation shifts to the qualifications necessary for political candidacy. Sarah Pierce, the newly elected mayor of Watertown, New York, shares her non-traditional path into politics, emphasizing that extensive governmental experience isn't a prerequisite for leadership roles.

Sarah Pierce [08:06]: “I think that you can be a candidate or ultimately an elected official who can go on to do a lot of good not having that traditional background.”

Amanda reinforces this notion by highlighting the diverse professional backgrounds of city council members, from doctors to grocery store managers, each bringing unique perspectives to governance.

4. Origin and Impact of Run for Something

Jean inquires about the genesis of Run for Something, prompting Amanda to recount the organization's founding on Trump's first inauguration day. Faced with a lack of resources for young aspiring politicians, Amanda and her co-founder Ross Morales Ricketto launched the platform to empower young individuals to pursue elected office.

Amanda Littman [10:49]: “We wrote a plan and we built a website and we launched Run for Something on Trump's first Inauguration Day... We're now up to about 220,000 young people all across the country who've raised their hands to say they want to run.”

5. Leadership Styles of Millennials and Gen Z

Addressing the evolving leadership styles, Amanda discusses how millennials and Gen Z leaders prioritize authenticity, clear boundaries, and emotional well-being in the workplace. This approach not only fosters a healthier work environment but also enhances productivity and satisfaction.

Amanda Littman [13:52]: “I think it creates space for team members to show up and to really get things done while also being real people outside of work.”

Sarah adds that her role as a mayor is flexible, allowing her to balance public duties with personal life, particularly motherhood. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing responsibilities to maintain this balance.

Sarah Pierce [15:43]: “My phone goes on do not disturb mode at 6pm because that's my time with my daughter.”

6. Overcoming Structural Barriers for Women in Politics

Amanda highlights the financial and structural challenges that deter many women, especially young ones, from running for office. She points out that many local and state positions are unpaid or offer minimal stipends, making it difficult for individuals who cannot afford to dedicate significant time without stable income.

Amanda Littman [22:43]: “Most of the offices that we work with candidates running for are unpaid. They're full time or part time volunteer roles. Occasionally there'll be some kind of stipend.”

She advocates for structural changes such as increased pay, childcare support, and healthcare benefits to make political candidacy more accessible to women.

7. Balancing Public Office and Family Life

Both Amanda and Sarah discuss the challenges and strategies for balancing the demands of public office with family responsibilities. Sarah shares her experience of integrating motherhood with her role as mayor by involving her daughter in official duties whenever possible.

Sarah Pierce [24:21]: “I'm finding it a lot easier to involve her in the work that I do as mayor, whether that's visiting a small business, taking her to a ribbon cutting.”

Amanda echoes the importance of a robust support system, emphasizing that having partners and a supportive "village" is crucial for women juggling leadership roles and family life.

Amanda Littman [26:02]: “You need a really strong support system. You need a partner, hopefully, who can carry their weight.”

8. Practical Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders

In the concluding segment, both guests offer actionable advice for women interested in making a difference in their communities.

• Amanda Littman encourages women to start by running for hyperlocal offices such as school boards, city councils, or library boards. She stresses the importance of self-selection and stepping into roles to prevent others who may not share the same passion from taking the lead.

  Amanda Littman [21:21]: “Nobody is born a politician the same way nobody's born an artist or a musician. The way you become one is by doing the thing.”

• Sarah Pierce advises getting involved in local campaigns, volunteering, and serving on boards or commissions to gain experience and build relationships within the community.

  Sarah Pierce [28:05]: “Offices and campaigns are always looking for volunteers, so I think that's important.”

Both emphasize the importance of confidence, support systems, and embracing leadership roles to inspire and lift other women as they advance.

Conclusion

This episode of HerMoney with Jean Chatzky provides a comprehensive look into the burgeoning movement of young women entering local government. Through the experiences of Amanda Littman and Sarah Pierce, listeners gain valuable insights into overcoming barriers, balancing personal and professional life, and adopting modern leadership styles that prioritize authenticity and well-being. The discussions serve as both inspiration and a practical guide for women contemplating a path in public service.

Notable Quotes:

• Jean Chatzky [00:21]: “This wasn't just a political upset, this was a wake up call.”

• Amanda Littman [05:21]: “It's our biggest organic candidate recruitment moment in the history of Run for Something.”

• Sarah Pierce [08:06]: “I think that you can be a candidate or ultimately an elected official who can go on to do a lot of good not having that traditional background.”

• Amanda Littman [13:52]: “I think it creates space for team members to show up and to really get things done while also being real people outside of work.”

• Sarah Pierce [15:43]: “My phone goes on do not disturb mode at 6pm because that's my time with my daughter.”

• Amanda Littman [22:43]: “Most of the offices that we work with candidates running for are unpaid.”

• Amanda Littman [21:21]: “Nobody is born a politician the same way nobody's born an artist or a musician.”

This detailed summary encapsulates the key points and discussions from Episode 486 of the HerMoney podcast, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.