Important Lessons for Women’s History Month — And Beyond

Women’s History Month is an opportunity to honor the vital role that women have played throughout history, and reflect upon the ways we can continue to make the world more equitable by elevating and empowering women in the workplace and beyond. And while we welcome the opportunity to mark Women’s History Month here at GoHealth, we also know that the contributions of the women within our organization are worth celebrating throughout the entire year. Our accomplished female teammates are continually innovating and inspiring, and they are integral to helping us achieve our mission — to improve access to healthcare in America.

To help us celebrate Women’s History Month, we’ve asked a few of our teammates to share what this month means to them and to reflect on who has inspired them along their professional journey.

Araba Appiagyei-Smith, Vice President, Product Management 

“Just over 100 years ago, The Women’s Bureau within the U.S. Department of Labor was created by law. Its goal was to improve the working conditions of women and advance their opportunities for profitable employment. I use Women’s History Month as an opportunity to reflect on how far women in the workforce have come. In 1920, women made up only ~20% of the US workforce. There was no such thing as the Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Women had only recently been granted the right to vote in the US. Now, women make up close to half of the US workforce, have FMLA protections when they have or adopt children, and can not only vote but also occupy some of the highest positions in the US government. Many women run Fortune 500 companies and have senior leadership roles. One of the books I’m reading this month is My Life in Full by Indra Nooyi, former CEO of Pepsi. I’m hugely inspired by her journey as the first woman of color and immigrant to run a Fortune 50 company.”

Melissa Balsan, Chief Marketing Officer

“I joined GoHealth in 2021 and, as Chief Marketing Officer, have the honor of leading the team that helps us reach and engage seniors — ultimately helping them obtain more benefits and access the essential care they deserve. Leading at GoHealth gives me the opportunity to increase access to healthcare in America.

During Women’s History Month, I’m grateful for the courageous women who have paved pathways for me to achieve a leadership position and better equality in the workplace — like Ruth Bader Ginsburg who fought unyieldingly for women’s rights. I hope to carry that work forward and make the workplace better for all women in generations to come.”

Trina Graham-Hodo, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Sales

“Women’s History Month is important to me because it is an opportunity for the spotlight to be on the many contributions of women in our society. I encourage you to start close to home by connecting with the women in your life. Ask them about the contributions of the generations of matriarchs in your family. I am confident that you will be amazed at the accomplishments of the women you love. During Women’s History Month, highlight those trailblazing women on your personal social media accounts. I am sure there are beautiful stories to be shared about grandmothers, mothers, sisters, aunts and ‘sister friends’.

Women’s History Month is also an opportunity for an open discussion about the history of women and other marginalized groups, which should always be framed as an issue for us all. It is critical that dialogue does not reinforce stereotypes, victimize or patronize. The best first step is to give issues that plague these groups open, fair and equal visibility. It is within these parameters that understanding, partnership and progress can be made.”

Jodie Parker, Vice President, Operations

“I have been very fortunate in my career to have reported into, been mentored by and worked alongside some amazing women, who nurtured and empowered me, helped me to grow and learn and ultimately enabled me to define the type of female leader I want to be. It never ceases to amaze me when I see how much women in business are expected to juggle between work responsibilities and personal or family commitments and the extra fight that we have to put up to be seen and recognized for our achievements. We’ve come a long way from the stereotypical female bosses portrayed on TV and in movies, but we have so much more work to do to increase diversity at the Executive levels and reduce the gender pay gap, among other things.”

If these quotes have inspired you to find more ways to observe Women’s History Month, visit the Women’s History Month official site, where you can watch videos, read about incredible women and participate in upcoming events. And tell us: How will you be celebrating Women’s History Month? We want to know and hear about the women in your life who have influenced you — share your stories with us on Facebook or Instagram.