Let’s hear it for the ladies- Inspiration from Rhema’s radio women

International Women’s Day (March 8) inspired us to check in with the women of Rhema FM to hear their thoughts — from a Christian perspective — on two big questions:

1. What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
2. What woman in the Bible most inspires you?

Chloe Ellenbacher – Co-host of The Fresh Start

Chloe co-hosts The Fresh Start alongside Aaron Brown. Together, they cover everything from the weird to the wonderful, chatting with guests from all walks of life — from musicians to local legends — to bring listeners a bright, uplifting start to their day.

“In an ideal world, every woman would have had the same experiences as me.

Growing up in a boisterous family of three girls and three boys, we spent our years playing rough basketball games, singing six-part harmony Sound of Music hits in the car, doing Bible studies at home, and helping at church.

Even though my older sister and I — number 5 and 6 in the sibling age order — were often referred to as ‘the girls,’ I don’t remember being excluded, talked down to, or told I couldn’t do something because I was female. I don’t remember phrases like ‘that’s for boys’ or ‘that’s a girl thing.’

In my adult work life, I’ve also been blessed to be treated with respect and valued wherever I’ve worked.

So when International Women’s Day comes around, a part of me wonders — do we really need a day just for women? Shouldn’t we all be equal?

But recently, I sat at a women’s luncheon listening to stories from incredible women — women who had achieved amazing things in business and charity work. Many of them had also experienced discrimination. One shared how meetings were intentionally scheduled at school pickup time so that she — the only mum — couldn’t attend. That reality was shocking to me.

So yes, while I may not personally feel the need for International Women’s Day, the harsh truth is that many still do. And that’s why it matters.

Let’s use IWD — and every day — to acknowledge, affirm, and value the women in our lives. Not because they’re better, but because they are equal. Let’s do this so well that more and more women can wonder, like I did: Do we even need a special day anymore?”

Scripture that inspires Chloe:
Galatians 3:26–28

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

 

Genesis 1:27: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Excitingly, Laurel was featured in Eterniry News’: Celebrating Strength: ’10 faith leaders share International Women’s Day messages’.

Written By: Audrey Waugh, Marketing Executive, Rhema FM