Voices of Inspiration: Hers Foundation Interviews

Hear directly from inspiring women making a difference! In this section, we share insightful interviews exploring diverse journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Learn from their experiences and perspectives on topics crucial to young women today.

Featured interviews

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 17: From Wushu to Hollywood with Jing Li

In this episode, we feature Jing Li, an accomplished martial artist, action performer, action coach, and educator whose career spans professional Chinese martial arts and Hollywood filmmaking. From her early training with the Beijing Wushu Team to her appearance in the Academy Award-winning film Everything Everywhere All at Once, Jing has dedicated her career to bringing martial arts to the screen and sharing her expertise with performers of all backgrounds.

Through her journey, Jing demonstrates that martial arts are about more than strength and technique. Her experiences in action filmmaking, performer training, and founding Kungfu Acting Star Academy highlight the importance of discipline, perseverance, creativity, and mentorship. Her story inspires the next generation to build confidence, embrace challenges, and pursue their passions with determination.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 16: Advancing Medicine, Inspiring Generations with Dr. Sri Abboy

In this episode, we feature Dr. Sri Abboy, a clinical geneticist and medical leader whose career spans patient care, medical research, and healthcare leadership. From pursuing her medical education in India to becoming Director of Southern California Kaiser’s California State Prenatal Program, Dr. Abboy has dedicated her career to advancing genetic medicine and supporting patients and families through complex medical decisions.

Her professional journey reflects years of dedication, perseverance, and commitment to healthcare. Through her work in clinical genetics and prenatal medicine, Dr. Abboy represents the important role women play in advancing science, strengthening healthcare systems, and inspiring future generations of medical professionals.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 15: Where Science Meets Creativity with Julia Greer

In this episode, we feature Professor Julia Greer, a materials scientist, engineer, educator, and concert pianist whose work bridges science, creativity, and innovation. As a professor and department chair at Caltech, Julia’s research explores nano-architected materials and advanced manufacturing, while her lifelong commitment to music has kept her active as a concert pianist.

Julia’s journey is rooted in curiosity and the freedom to pursue more than one identity. Her story reminds us that we do not always have to choose between creativity and practicality, art and science, or passion and achievement — sometimes our greatest strength comes from allowing those different parts of ourselves to grow together.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 14: Finding Strength Through Every Challenge with Jocelyn Young

In this episode, we feature Jocelyn Young, a trailblazing IT leader, devoted mother, and passionate community advocate. From breaking barriers in the technology industry to mentoring young people through Scouting and community service, Jocelyn has dedicated her life to empowering others through leadership, resilience, and compassion.

Jocelyn’s journey is rooted in purpose, perseverance, and the belief that true success is measured by the opportunities we create for others. Her story reminds us that even through life’s greatest challenges—including her battle with breast cancer—we can continue to lead with courage, serve with heart, and inspire the next generation.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 13: Producing with Vision and Leadership

In this episode, we feature Annabelle K. Frost, a producer, writer, director, educator, and Assistant Professor of Producing whose work spans theater, film, and television. From building creative teams behind the scenes to mentoring the next generation of storytellers, Annabelle has dedicated her career to bringing powerful stories to life through collaboration, leadership, and vision.

Annabelle’s approach is rooted in the belief that great production begins with understanding story. Her journey reminds us that leadership is not only about managing people and projects—it is about creating environments where creativity, trust, and innovation can thrive.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 12: Three Generations, One Golden Thread

In this special Mother’s Day episode, we feature three generations of women from one family: Michele Antenorcruz, her daughter Calaya, and her mother Manet. Together, they reflect on motherhood, sacrifice, creativity, identity, and the invisible threads that connect women across generations.

From stories of immigration, single motherhood, public service, and career reinvention, to conversations about art, parenting, independence, and love, this episode explores not only what it means to be a mother — but what it means to be a woman evolving through different seasons of life.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 11: Leading with Vision with Breeda McGrath

In this episode, we feature Breeda McGrath, President of Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School and a lifelong educator and leader in psychology, education, and social justice. With decades of experience across academic leadership, child advocacy, and global education, Breeda has dedicated her work to building inclusive systems that support children, families, and communities.

Breeda’s leadership is rooted in collaboration, compassion, and purpose. Her journey reminds us that education, when guided by equity and vision, can transform not only institutions, but entire communities.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 10: Designing with Purpose with Michele Antenorcruz

In this episode, we feature Michele Antenorcruz, a landscape designer, educator, and advocate for sustainability and social justice. With a career spanning law, policy, community organizing, and environmental design, Michele has dedicated her work to creating spaces that honor both people and the earth.

Michele’s leadership is rooted in listening, integrity, and purpose. Her journey reminds us that beauty, when aligned with justice and sustainability, can become a powerful force for change.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 9: Sustaining Tomorrow with Gillian Calof

In this episode, we feature Gillian Calof, Senior Director of Finance at ClimateWorks Foundation and a longtime leader in nonprofit and philanthropy. With over 25 years of experience in mission-driven organizations, Gillian has dedicated her career to environmental protection, education, and community impact, guided by integrity, empathy, and long-term vision.

Gillian’s leadership is rooted in sustainability, collaboration, and steady decision-making. Her journey reminds us that meaningful change is built through values, responsibility, and a deep commitment to future generations.

Her Journey Her Strength – Episode 8: Shaping Education from the Heart with Rebecca Hong

In this episode, we feature Rebecca Hong, Head of School at Sequoyah School and a long-time advocate for progressive, student-centered education. With over 25 years of experience across K–12 and higher education, Rebecca has served as an educator, teacher trainer, equity facilitator, and curriculum developer, always guided by a deep belief in equity, belonging, and community.

Rebecca’s leadership is rooted in building joyful school cultures, nurturing emotional intelligence, and creating environments where every child feels seen, challenged, and celebrated. Her journey reminds us that education, at its best, shapes not only knowledge, but whole people and whole communities.

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