Championing Mental Health: Zandra Polard's Mission for Awareness and Equality

In this insightful interview, we delve into the inspiring journey of Zandra Polard, a dedicated public radio host, mental health activist, and teacher based in Las Vegas, Nevada. Zandra began her impactful career as the Director of Business Development for two prominent mental health agencies in Nevada, where she orchestrated numerous events to raise mental health awareness. Her relentless advocacy opened doors to various platforms, including radio, television, social media, and print publications, allowing her to amplify the conversation on mental health. Recognizing the universal importance of this issue, Zandra launched her own radio show, "Its Where I am," creating a powerful platform for mental health discourse. Join us as we explore Zandra's journey, her passion for mental health advocacy, and her commitment to promoting gender equality through her work.

1.What inspired you to become an advocate for gender equality in your field?

Zandra Polard: When I looked for positions to broadcast on the radio there was a structural inequality and economic gap. Positions available for women were often the sounding board or co-host, and speaking minimally to the male counterpart(s) who notably are the voice or personality of the show. Noticing the patriarchal hierarchy of radio I decided to create my own program on public radio and speak to not only mental health but women's issues within business, family and social structures.

2.Can you share an experience where you faced gender bias and how you dealt with it?

Zandra Polard: Job searching broadcasting roles as only the support and not the lead. I created my own show.

3.As a leader, what steps have you taken to promote gender equality within your organization?

Zandra Polard: Rights and opportunities are not affected by gender as the show highlights the over encompassing issues of the mental health spectrum which affects all human beings. The initiatives put in place are to have conversations with those willing to speak to their personal experience in dealing with issues to reduce stigmas and break barriers

4.What specific policies or initiatives has your organization implemented to support gender equality?

Zandra Polard: Its Where I am in partnership with Slugn The Magazine have featured local business, mental health professionals, women in government, media, and corporate America in women empowerment conferences and symposiums.

5.How do you measure the success of gender equality initiatives in your workplace?

Zandra Polard: There is a shared experience in each story. Each testimonial helps others understand they are not alone in their journey. When someone direct messages me or stops me to talk about a guest, topic, or have a question from listening to the show, for me that's success. The success of normalizing the conversation on mental health.

6. How important is mentorship in advancing gender equality, and what role do you play in mentoring women in your industry?

Zandra Polard: Historically, women have been muted which is beyond frustrating it impedes progress. Now that we have made our voices heard we have made strides in progressing our perspective and world view in society and business. As we further our initiatives, we mentor others to continue making success in the world. This means telling our stories, supporting other women and educating our youth. My contribution is offering a platform to expose and highlight such stories. Along with community service and civic engagement.

7. How do you believe achieving gender equality impacts overall business performance and workplace culture?

Zandra Polard: To think of working in a place that has fair and equal pay, no hostile or sexual harassments, and cultural competency could only be a utopia. Because of the intricacies of society that play into our work life. It is the very reason we expose and educate to achieve optimal work performance. I think one's responsibilities contribute to business performance and workplace culture. For example, Maslow’s hierarchy of need, if one’s responsibilities cannot achieve balance due to a lack of life's basic needs then how can one perform to their highest potential. There are situations of gender inequality in the home. If women are not valued in their own home with shared responsibility how then does this carry over in the workplace? Each experience garners various outcomes. We still must address women's issues in their totality; holistically.

8.What is your vision for the future of gender equality in your industry, and what steps do you think are necessary to achieve it?

Zandra Polard: Economic equality and spots on radio for women as the key personality or host. My vision for gender equality in my industry is to celebrate achievements, Listen from those who have not had a voice, and learn from past experiences.

9.What advice would you give to young women who aspire to reach leadership positions in their careers?

Zandra Polard: I have to share this part of my story as I recently told it publicly. When I encounter someone who is intimidated by a circumstance. I share my intimidation of public speaking. I had a surgery that paralyzed my vocal cord muscles on each side of my larynx. I could only speak but a whisper and within my healing process I became a public speaker and created a radio show. Now, I did have to use a microphone to speak softly but it was my determination to advocate for others and continue to speak. Although my voice was compromised, I was still heard. And that is my testimony I share that I hope can inspire others.

Shared By Zandra Polard

Published By She Business Time