On today's podcast, we have the Turkey Women Offshore Ambassador, Captain Ayse Asli Basak, on the show. Ayse shares with Christine about her journey working offshore and now what her current ashore career life looks like. Ayse Asli Basak is a seasoned maritime entrepreneur and innovator, having founded maritime start-up Shipsider to streamline comm…

On today's podcast, we have the UK Women Offshore Ambassador Heather Ennesss on the show. Heather shares with Christine about her journey working offshore and her journey at home while raising kids. Heather is also a proud member of the UK Careers at Sea Ambassadors program. She's on a mission to ignite young minds about the endless opportunities w…

Christine has Dr. Sal Mercogliano on the podcast today. Sal is Chair of the Department of History, Criminal Justice, and Political Science at Campbell University. He is also an adjunct professor at the US Merchant Marine Academy and a former merchant mariner. He hosts the "What’s Going On With Shipping" channel on YouTube and contributes to Sea His…

In today's podcast, embark on a transformative journey of leadership with today's podcast episode, where Ally introduces some incredible resources to help you navigate the waters like the book, "Sticky Note Leadership: 5 Simple Steps to DO LESS and LEAD MORE." Tune in as she candidly shares her own experience, reflecting on how she wishes she had b…

Today on the podcast, we bring you an unforgettable speech delivered by Kitara at the Women Offshore Benefit Gala. Join us as we dive into Kitara's remarkable journey—a tale of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering spirit of a mariner. Kitara's speech is about her extraordinary journey of resilience and determination in the face of adversity…

Join us on today's podcast as Christine MacMillan engages in a heartfelt conversation with Vineeta Dhillon, a remarkable woman whose journey from India to the USA in 1986 is a testament to resilience and determination. Currently calling California home, Vineeta has dedicated nearly three decades of her professional life to the esteemed maritime aca…

On today's episode, Christine gets to speak with Cassidy Patton from Ketchikan, Alaska, who grew up in a fishing community that inspired her to seek out a career at sea. She shares all about the Alaska Marine Highway System, along with diving into her interesting story of growing up in Alaska and her experience in the maritime world. Cassidy attend…

Set sail with us on another captivating journey in the Women Offshore community! Today, we're thrilled to introduce Rena Navarro, a mariner whose passion for the sea knows no bounds. Join us as Rena, a USCG Certified Instructor, Captain, and Old Boat Enthusiast, takes the helm and shares her inspiring story. Hailing from Superior, Wisconsin, Rena's…

Dive into an inspiring tale of resilience and determination with today's episode of the Women Offshore podcast! President Ally Cedeno takes us behind the scenes, revealing the untold challenges she encountered while laying the foundation of this remarkable organization. You might be familiar with Women Offshore's impactful work today, but what lies…

In the latest Women Offshore podcast episode, Christine dives into a captivating conversation with Traci Langford, a powerhouse from the leading Louisiana apparel company, LAPCO. Discover the story behind LAPCO's fire-resistant apparel line and hear Traci's firsthand experience working for a company that prioritizes women's safety and comfort. Join…

Dive into the latest Women Offshore podcast episode as our remarkable Women Offshore Ambassador, Max Kantor, returns for an engaging chat with Christine about navigating change and personal growth in the new year. Max and Christine not only share invaluable advice on moving forward but also open up about their personal interests and the delightful …

In this Women Offshore podcast episode, join Ally Cedeno in an insightful conversation with our Marketing Manager, Kristy. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic world of Women Offshore as Kristy unveils the intricacies of her pivotal role. From the meticulous planning of our weekly features to overcoming hurdles in the digital real…

Dive deep into the future with our latest Women Offshore podcast episode! Last week, Christine and Ally explored the horizons of our Career Development Program in 2024. This week, Christine is back, riding the waves of anticipation as she unveils the incredible journeys Women Offshore is set to embark on in the coming year. From the highly-anticipa…

Gain insights into the exciting initiatives Women Offshore has in store for 2024 with our latest podcast episode featuring Christine and Ally! Dive into the future of career development for women in the maritime industry as they unveil a roadmap for empowering women+ through our innovative Career Development Program and more. From navigating the co…

Today, we conclude our series on "Bad Bosses," featuring insights from Erica D'Eramo of Two Piers Consulting. In this episode, Ally and Erica delve into the topic of recognizing when you, as an individual, may exhibit traits of a bad boss. Whether you're a cadet or a team leader, continuous learning and self-reflection are essential components of p…

Welcome back to our Bad Bosses mini-series on the Women Offshore Podcast. From the historical figure of Captain Bligh, known for his tyrannical leadership aboard the HMS Bounty, to more contemporary tales shared by members of our own community, we're exploring the multifaceted nature of challenging leadership in the maritime industry. The following…

Today on the podcast, Ally is talking about bad bosses. A bad boss can turn a smooth sailing career into a journey through stormy seas of conflict. Let's be honest: it's nearly impossible to go through your career without crossing paths with at least one difficult leader, and sometimes, you might even unknowingly become that challenging boss. Leade…

In today's podcast, we discuss the Women Offshore Foundation's overarching goal and impact. The Women Offshore Foundation is dedicated to empowering women+ in the maritime industry by connecting women working on the water to a global community, providing professional development tools, and addressing unique challenges. Our Career Development Progra…

As Thanksgiving approaches, we're exploring the power of gratitude in leadership. In this episode, we'll also delve into the inspiring story of Ernest Shackleton, a remarkable example of leadership in extreme circumstances. Gratitude is more than just saying 'thank you.' Gratitude is a positive emotion that arises when we acknowledge the value of s…

In today's podcast, we have a special treat for you. We want to share with you an inspiring panel that was from our 2023 Women Offshore Conference this year. Bound by Experience: Navigating Careers Through Lifelong Connection with Admiral Mark Buzby and Maddie Thibeault Madeline Thibeault has a successful maritime career with experience at the Unit…

In today’s episode, we talk with Captain Jeanne Ferrer, a lifelong native of St. Bernard Parish, who graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 2006, as a Logistics and Intermodal Transportation major. She is also the recipient of the Women Offshore’s Wavemaker Award for 2022 and an active mentor within the maritime and seagoing mi…

In today's episode, with today being Halloween Ally Cedeno wanted to share some interesting stories about the dark side of mermaids. In this gripping second part, she will venture into the shadowy realms of mermaid lore, shedding light on the dark and mysterious aspects of these mythical creatures. Prepare to be captivated as we share stories from …

In today's episode, Ally Cedeno is speaking about mermaids and dives into the rich history surrounding these mythical creatures. Join us for part 1 of this special podcast on a journey through time as we unravel the mystery and allure of mermaids. She delves deep into the enchanting world of mermaids, uncovering the reasons why they have fascinated…

In today's episode, Ally spoke with Brooke Baldassari who is a Senior Products Scheduler at bp. She is a graduate of the US Merchant Marine Academy where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Logistics and Intermodal Transportation. She has worked as a Ship Operator and West Coast Scheduler for BP. Before moving shoreside to work for bp, Brook…

In today's episode, we talk with Captain Jeanne Ferrer, a lifelong native of St. Bernard Parish, who graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 2006, as a Logistics and Intermodal Transportation major. She is also the recipient of last year's Women Offshore’s Wavemaker of the Year Award for 2022 and an active mentor within the mari…

In today's episode, Christine speaks with Bridget Truxilo, who has firsthand experience with harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and a hostile work environment. As the only female on the SWAT team, along with her time on patrol and as an undercover narcotics investigator, she knows what it feels like to have no one to trust and to feel defeate…

In today’s episode, join Ally Cedeno as she dives into the exciting preview of the Women Offshore Conference 2023 'A World of Opportunity' at Texas A&M in Galveston. Attendees are promised two invigorating days of motivation, insights, and priceless networking. Day 1 Captain Sherri Hickman of Houston Pilots is our trailblazing opening keynote speak…

We've all seen it - a critical board meeting, brainstorming sessions, even casual team chats. A woman is making her point, laying down insights, or suggesting strategies, and suddenly, she's interrupted, cut off, or talked over, often by a male colleague. This isn't just about breaking the conversational flow; it's about undermining authority, cred…

In today’s episode, Christine MacMillan speaks with Mandy Maude Culbreath who is an Emergency Room Social Worker within a large Louisiana non-profit, academic hospital system. Mandy evaluates patients’ initial emergencies and implements a plan of care with the medical team to resolve psychosocial problems. She acts as a patient advocate and resourc…

In today’s episode, Christine MacMillan speaks with Jenny Johnson, Founder and CEO of Maritime Inclusion Partners, about the presentation she gave on "Balancing Gender Bias within the Promotion Process in the Offshore Environment" at the Women Offshore Inclusion Summit. They discuss the key takeaways from not only her presentation but from all the …

In today's episode, Ally speaks with Sarah Hirsch, the newly appointed Head of Customer Success at MM-SEAS, the go-to provider for the Coast Guard licensing software. From sailing roots to becoming a Captain, she shares her sea stories and how she is trying to make the industry more inclusive. You don't want to miss this great story! About the MM-S…

In today’s episode, Christine speaks about finding her voice while experiencing non-consent when she was younger. She shares how important it is to find your voice and how you can achieve this. Unfortunately for most women+ working offshore some sort of unwanted sexual harassment or assault has happened to us. Finding our voice is incredibly import…

With the Inclusion Summit 1 week away, we wanted to give you a sneak peek of our Inclusion Summit. Inclusion refers to the practice of creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, identity, abilities, or characteristics, are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity. It involves actively involving and valuing eve…

In today's episode, Christine speaks with Nellie Tormala as she shares her story of how she found her authentic self. Nellie shares how she first came to the sea to isolate and run from her true identity as a woman. She shares about her transgender journey and how it led to working offshore. Join us as we listen to this enlightening conversation as…

In today's episode, Christine speaks with Philip C. Schifflin and Christine Brunson from the Seamen's Church Institute about what they do and resilience. They discuss how they help during devastating times and when mariners need support. They highlight that resilience is BENDING not BRAKING and how to build resilience. They explore how to find the …

We asked YOU what questions you are too embarrassed or afraid to ask offshore. In today's episode, our Director of Career Support Programs, Christine MacMillan, and Women Offshore Ambassador Max Kantor review our questions and share their answers and experiences. They cover topics from menstrual cycles to career transitions to sexual harassment. If…

In today's episode, Ally and Christine talk about time management. They discuss how hard it is to say no and how important it is to prioritize the important things in your life. Your priorities will shift with time and that's ok. They go over ways to help you be more proactive and organized. Are you putting your energy and effort where you should? …

In today's episode, Christine talks with Larkin Bohn about how she started her offshore career at the age of 31 and has the message, "Anything is Possible!" Starting in the gift shop department of Norwegian Cruise Lines, she fell in love with life at sea but yearned for a more hands-on role. Through networking and learning on the job, she became an…

In today’s episode, Christine talks with Lieutenant Junior Grade (LT. J.G.) Alice Beittel, who is a commissioned officer for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Corps (NOAA Corps), currently serving as the Advanced Survey Technology Officer at the NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center in San Diego. She shares what the NOAA Corps d…

In today’s episode, Christine talks with Dr. Joy Pedersen about Enneagram and how it can help you better understand yourself and work with other teammates. Dr. Pedersen has experience working with individuals and teams to manage change, transition, growth, loss, work-life balance, and other challenges in order to achieve their full potential. She p…

In today's episode, Christine talks with Rebbeca Johnson and Heather Richard, shares their passion and experience of sailing and how they got to be where they are today. They share about working with the Call of the Sea, which is an educational non-profit that connects people to the sea and maritime traditions. They aim to increase coastal access a…

In today’s episode, Christine speaks with JL Candelaria, Creative Director and Silk Bracelet Maker for Pretty by JL. Jenny shares her heart on learning to lean into life and her journey through motherhood. She shares about a hard time in her life when she was trying to balance being a mom and making time for herself. Jenny says somewhere along the …

In today's episode, Ally Cedeno has Mr. Jeremy R. Gauthier, Director of the Coast Guard Investigative Service, on the show. We wanted everyone to meet the new Director of the Coast Guard Investigative Service and to revisit what happens when you make a report to the Coast Guard. Jeremy R. Gauthier became the fifth civilian Director of the Coast Gua…

In today's episode, Ally and Christine discuss communication skills and how to use them to level up the workplace. They give great advice on how to listen well, receive feedback, and have successful conversations. These are excellent reminders of how to handle your communication at work and also how to handle emergencies offshore. Whether you work …

In today’s episode, Christine MacMillan speaks with Dr. Holly Fearnbach, Dr. Holly Fearnbach is the marine mammal research director of SR3, SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation and Research (www.sealifer3.org), a Seattle area non-profit dedicated to the welfare of marine wildlife in the Northeast Pacific. Holly gives advice to follow their career dream…

In today’s episode, Christine MacMillan speaks with Hillary Sprague, a mother of two, educator, and women offshore podcast listener. She's a giant fan of all the inspiring guests and an ally to all the listeners supporting the Women Offshore mission. Hillary and Christine discuss the book "The Confidence Code." Working women today are better educat…

In today’s episode, Ally Cedeno speaks about tips to help with public speaking. Ally has the honor of speaking at California Maritime Academy at their graduation. She goes over public speaking lessons she has learned and tips that have helped her over the years. She shares how she used to freeze when she was put on the spot and would beat herself u…

In today’s episode, Ally Cedeno speaks with the President and Executive Recruiter at Trackline Search Partners, Sheila LaFleur. As an Unlimited Master Mariner with extensive maritime and transportation recruitment expertise, Sheila has keen insight into full desk recruitment. She understands the maritime industry firsthand and truly has a grasp of …

In today’s episode, Christine MacMillan speaks with Corinne Bendersky, a Professor and Area Chair of Management and Organizations who specializes in workplace conflict, status, justice, diversity, and inclusion in teams and organizations. Her research contributes not only to academic knowledge but also to organizational practice. They go over what …

🚢 In today’s episode, Christine MacMillan speaks with Jeff Avery. Jeff has been a mariner Chief Steward since 2008. Working on various types of vessels, from research to oil tankers, Jeff is passionate about people, morale, equality, and justice. Having visited 28 countries across 5 continents, he is pleased to be supporting the mission of Women Of…