We often talk about the glass ceiling in business, but what if the true barrier to a woman’s full potential starts much lower—at the most basic level of her health and healthcare access? Imagine trying to lead a meeting, ace an exam, or secure funding when you can’t access essential menstrual products. This is the reality of “period poverty,” a silent struggle that affects millions and is rooted in shame and lack of access.In this powerful conversation, we dive deep with Avery Bruen and Brooke Blankenship, the dynamic young founders of EmpowerHer. They started their mission in high school, tackling period poverty head-on by providing quality products and crucial education to underserved communities. Discover why access to period products is fundamentally a leadership and equity issue, not just a side note. Avery and Brooke share their journey—from neighborhood drives to a thriving organization serving over 11,000 students—and reveal the business savvy, resilience, and intergenerational wisdom required to build a mission-driven movement from the ground up.If you’ve ever wondered how small, practical interventions can unlock enormous change and shatter assumptions, don’t miss this episode. Their story is a powerful metaphor for overcoming any professional obstacle.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Visit katherinebyrne.com