In this thought-provoking episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri sit down with attorney, advocate, and Equal Pay Day Chicago founder Barbara Young for a conversation that’s equal parts eye-opening and actionable. Drawing on more than 40 years in the legal profession, Barbara shares firsthand stories of navigating male-dominated spaces, witnessing pay inequities unfold behind the scenes, and turning frustration into advocacy. Together, the conversation explores why wage gaps persist, how workplace culture shapes opportunity, and what women can do to change the conversation—starting with themselves. From negotiating offers and performance reviews to building networks and creating visibility around compensation, Barbara delivers practical strategies listeners can apply immediately. This episode is a reminder that knowing your value is only the beginning—claiming it is where change starts.
Why are we still talking about equal pay in 2026?
In this powerful episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri sit down with attorney and equal pay advocate Barbara Young to unpack the persistent realities of wage inequality—and what women can do about it.
After more than four decades practicing law, Barbara shares the moments that shaped her career, from arguing cases early in her legal journey to becoming a fierce champion for women’s economic equality. She reflects on entering a profession where women were present in the classroom but often disappeared from leadership—and what she learned watching compensation gaps play out in real time.
Barbara explains how a chance introduction to the concept of Equal Pay Day became a mission that led to the creation of Equal Pay Day Chicago, a coalition bringing together organizations, leaders, and everyday women to advocate for economic fairness.
This conversation goes beyond statistics. Barbara offers practical advice listeners can use immediately: research your market value, negotiate salary and benefits, prepare for performance reviews, and advocate for yourself the same way you advocate for everyone else.
The episode also explores mentorship, networking, transparency in pay practices, and the legacy of trailblazers like Lilly Ledbetter, whose fight changed U.S. law for future generations.
One of the strongest reminders from this conversation: equal pay isn’t only a policy issue—it’s a personal one.
If you’ve ever accepted less than you deserved, hesitated to negotiate, or wondered whether your work is valued fairly, this episode is your reminder
Resources & References Mentioned
Highlight Quotes
“You are not asking for more because you’re ungrateful. You’re asking because you know your value. Advocate for yourself the way you advocate for everyone else.”
“Don’t negotiate only salary. Negotiate the whole package—time, flexibility, benefits, growth, and opportunity. Every line item has value
“Equal pay doesn’t change because people quietly work harder. It changes when people ask questions, demand transparency, and refuse to accept less.”