Women Walking
Women Walking is a collection of conversations with women who are in the middle of something — a transition, a reckoning, a beginning, an ending. Hosted by Debbie Ventimiglia and Courtney Park-Jamborsky, the show sits at the intersection of movement and meaning: what shifts inside us when life asks us to change.
Each episode is a walk alongside someone who’s figuring things out in real time. No polished “after” stories. No tidy arcs. Just honest talk about identity, work, relationships, grief, joy, and the small decisions that move us forward.
If you want stories that feel like a deep breath and a long walk with someone who gets it, this is your place.
Women Walking
Women Walking Episode 13: Life After USAID — Courage, Loss & Reinvention with Elizabeth Jere
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Elizabeth Jere spent two decades leading global health programs across Africa — balancing leadership with single motherhood and a deep commitment to women’s empowerment. But after federal cuts abruptly ended her USAID contractor role, Elizabeth found herself adrift, grieving in Spain and searching for a new path.
In this episode, she shares her journey through loss, healing, and reinvention — from being “mothered” by a colleague in Cambodia to finding sanctuary underwater as a diver. Now the founder of Jiranileo, an African food tourism company recognized by UN Tourism, Elizabeth is building a business that celebrates culinary heritage and creates opportunities for women and youth.
This is a story of courage, community, and the power of starting over — told with honesty, humor, and hope.
To check out Jiranileo or find out more about Elizabeth Jere's work and travels, see the links below:
Jiranileo website: https://jiranileo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-jere/
Travel blog: https://themoviousmzungu.com/
And if anyone wants to follow Elizabeth's remote life, she posts her travels on Instagram @dadaeliza
