162. Empowered Voices: Grief, Politics, and Mental Health with Mary Hayashi

Mary Hayashi is an award-winning author who is among this country's most accomplished champions for diversity and women's rights. As a national healthcare leader, public affairs consultant, non-profit director, and former California State Assemblymember, Mary has dedicated her life to serving America and its most vulnerable citizens. Her book, Women in Politics: Breaking Down the Barriers to Achieve True Representation. "In this book, I hope to provide insight into the many facets of my life as a girl growing up in Korea; as an Asian American immigrant; as a survivor who lost her older sister to suicide; as a national health care advocate; as an elected official; and as an advocate for women's rights. Each of these parts of my life has provided its own challenges, lessons, successes, and struggles, and the sum of these experiences has made me who I am." Mary has been the driving force behind meaningful reforms to expand the coverage of healthcare. She also established unprecedented partnerships in support of social causes that previously had no financial or public backing. https://www.maryhayashi.com/about/ Episode Highlights: * Mary shares insights from her book, "Women in Politics: Breaking Down the Barriers to Achieve True Representation." * The book is not just about politics; it's a journey of self-discovery, inspiring women to chart their unique paths. * Discusses her upbringing in South Korea, the loss of her older sister to suicide, and the impact on her life choices. Contact Kendra Rinaldi to be a guest on the podcast or to inquire about coaching with her: https://www.griefgratitudeandthegrayinbetween.com/