Wendy McCarthy AC has spent more than five decades shaping Australia’s story of equality. From her early days in the classroom to leadership roles with the ABC, Plan Australia, headspace, and beyond, Wendy has never stopped asking “why not?”
In this powerful conversation, we talk rage and reform, risk and resilience, from her personal experience with illegal abortion to her lifelong fight for women’s rights, education, and reproductive freedom.
Wendy shares how to balance hope with action, turn anger into advocacy, and keep your head and heart connected as you lead.
A must-listen for every woman who’s ready to speak up, stand tall, and keep the fire burning for the generations to come.
Links & References:
Connect With Wendy McCarthy
Connect With Jennifer Jefferies
Show Note:
Balancing risk and hope in activism
Wendy shares wisdom on knowing when to push, pause, or pivot in activism, and the importance of building a base of followers. She encourages taking calculated risks, as there are often safety nets, and trusting your gut instincts. Wendy and Jennifer discuss the need to maintain hope and energy in the face of setbacks.
The personal and political impact of domestic violence
Wendy delves into the deeply personal and political nature of domestic violence, explaining how it stems from a belief that men own their wives. She emphasizes the need to address the root causes rather than just the symptoms, and her hope that men will eventually be willing to change their mindsets and behaviours.
Passing the torch to the next generation
In closing, Wendy reflects on the importance of sharing wisdom with younger generations, emphasising the need to keep head and heart connected.