On this week’s episode of Women Speak — a segment on Northeast Newscast — hosts Northeast News Editor-in-Chief, Julia Williams and former Missouri House Representative for District 19 Ingrid Burnett sat down with Pastor of Independence Boulevard Christian Church and Executive Director for Intersect KC, Rev. Mindy Fugarino to continue our series on women who influence policy.

Throughout this episode, Rev. Fugarino discusses her background — including growing up in Texas and her move to Kansas City. She delves into her mission and practices she had worked to implement at Independence Boulevard Christian Church (IBCC), 606 Gladstone Ave., as well as programs she has created including Intersect KC and The Micah Ministry. Pastor Mindy goes on to mention what has continued to influence her work as well as individuals who have driven her along the way.

Burnett and Williams discuss happenings within the Missouri State House in Jefferson city. This episode includes a recent close to legislative session, which left many senators unsatisfied with the outcome. Burnett goes on to describe these bills, which will appear on future Missouri ballots including abortion and Proposition A that Missouri voters passed in the November 2024 election highlighting paid sick leave and minimum wage. Resources are additionally provided for voter registration.

Music used within this Women Speak episode is a song called “I Wish I Knew You Then” by Kansas City local artist Honeybee and the group’s lead female vocalist, Makayla Scott.

“I Wish I Knew You Then” is a recent single, which Honeybee released in March 2025. Honeybee’s latest single “Charmed Life,” was released on April 25 and is now available on its streaming platforms. “I Wish I Knew You Then,” “Charmed Life” and additional Honeybee tracks are available on Spotify, Apple Music, Youtube, TIDAL and Youtube Music.

*Disclaimer* I Wish I Knew You Then and any previous or future Honeybee songs used by The Northeast News within the Women Speak podcasts are courtesy of and approved by Makayla Scott and Honeybee under proper copyright law. Honeybee songs are not royalty free nor subject to free use and should not be used by additional publications or organizations without proper consent.

This podcast as well as all Women Speak episodes are made possible by The Northeast News, Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and Independence Avenue Community Improvement District.