International Women’s Day: The Women Who Inspire Us

Author Nicole Barlage

March 8th, 2021 9:35 AM

Today (March 8) is International Women’s Day and we asked the ladies of XTU who inspire us to share the 3 women who inspire them.

Andie Summers’ Inspiring Women:

My sister, Debbie
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Of course, my mom is an inspiration, but I’m choosing to highlight one of her greatest accomplishments – my sister Debbie. My big sis had 3 children in 14 months (including twins) and raised these girls to be exceptional human beings that are not only smart and beautiful, but they are all doing things to make the world a better place. Debbie is also the fiercest woman I know. Watching her kick both Leukemia and Lymphoma’s butt in 2014 elevated her to Rock Star Hall of Fame status
Corrie ten Boom
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I’m also choosing to highlight a woman I never met, but she has a profound impact on my life. Corrie ten Boom helped many Jews escape from the Nazis during the Holocaust in WWII by hiding them in her home. She was eventually caught, but her faith in God not only helped her through her time in the Concentration Camp, she inspired others and gave them hope. Corrie ten Boom’s life is a beautiful example of Faith and Fearlessness. Read about her remarkable life in The Hiding Place https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/561909.The_Hiding_Place
My daughter, Tori
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And, finally, someone you all know from my stories on the air and Facebook photos – my daughter Tori. Every day this girl amazes me with her fierceness. She does nothing half-way. Tori makes me a better woman, not only by her example, but I know those little eyes are watching me, and there’s no better motivator than that.

My mom, Nina
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I know she's not famous and Lord knows she wasn't perfect. But she instilled in me the belief that I could use my voice, that kindness is the best way to lead and that if I see something I can do to make things better, I should do it. She also taught me to make the best meatballs. She didn't change the world, but she was a big part of mine. I miss her.
Dolly Parton
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She was amazing prior to the pandemic, but watching Dolly lead the way last year by reading bedtime stories to kids online, donating millions to fund a vaccine and getting a dose of her own medicine! Dolly is it! Tease it to Jesus, y'all!
Malala Yousafzai
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There is brave and then there is Malala. She is the epitome of standing for what you believe in and is an inspiration for all of us.

Stacey Abrams
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To me she's the example of going into politics because she actually wants to help people and make an impact. What she has done for voter suppression in Georgia is so incredible she was nominated for a Noble Peace Prize. She has dedicated her life to help those who need it most, and I am in awe of her work.
Maren Morris
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She's the reason I started to love country music again before I started at XTU two years ago. Her songs are obviously catchy, but they are powerful and empower women. She is not afraid to be the progressive face and voice that country music needs right now.
Dolly Parton
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Queen of country music and all around trailblazer! She has always been out spoken and stood up for people who needed it the most. She's sassy, and funny, never taking herself too seriously. She's an incredibly generous philanthropist, and not to mention a brilliant song-writer and performer. She is the definition of how you can do good with fame - she literally has a theme park and always donated for vaccine research! She's beyond amazing.

Oprah Winfrey
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Oprah has had to overcome a lot in her career and life. She was told no by more corporations than you know.. but she kept picking herself up and fighting.. and it all worked out in the end, just the way it was supposed to. She's known for her compassion and intelligence across the world.
Dolly Parton
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Strip away the fortune and the talent and Dolly will be the exact same, kind and caring person. But with the fortune, talent and fame... well.. she's the Queen.
Michelle Obama
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The epitome of class. Her quote "When they go low, we go high" goes through my head several times a week. Smart words.