Breaking Barriers: Jenny Cavnar and the Power of Equality in Sports
A Historic Moment in Sports Broadcasting
On opening day of the MLB season, in a moment that will be etched into professional sports history, Jenny Cavnar will break through as the first female play-by-play MLB analyst for the Oakland Athletics. This isn’t just a milestone for her; it’s a testament to the evolving landscape of sports and sports broadcasting. It marks progress in a field that has long been male-dominated.
A Personal Connection to Women in Sports
For me, this shift is a welcome change. I grew up watching baseball with my Aunt Joanne. She taught me the rules, the strategies, and how to love the sport, all while we listened to Harry Kalas call Phillies games. From an early age, it was just natural to me that knowledge and passion for sports were not dictated by gender.
The Significance of Jenny’s Achievement
Jenny’s achievement reminds us that in the grand narrative of progress, “achievement knows no gender.” It resonates with the ethos of Parity Now, a call to recognize and elevate voices that have long been marginalized. By stepping into this role, Jenny has not only shattered a glass ceiling but has also paved the way for future generations of women in sports media.
A New Employer-Employee Dynamic
But what makes Jenny’s story even more significant is how she was brought into this role. Traditionally, a prestigious job like this would have required a complete uprooting—relocation to be near the team, a demand that often disproportionately affects women, particularly those with families. Yet, in Jenny’s case, the organization took a different approach. Recognizing her role as a mother, the wife of a public servant firefighter, and her deep roots in Denver, the organization took a different approach—one that reflects a broader shift in how employers think about work-life integration. Instead, they worked with her to find a solution that allowed her to take on this groundbreaking role while maintaining stability for her family. (Listen to the Redefined with Leslie & Arielle podcast interview with Jenny for more of the story.)
This marks a shift in the employer-employee relationship—one that values the whole person rather than just the professional role they fill. It stands in stark contrast to outdated, paternalistic workplace norms, such as the rigid return-to-office mandates that ignore the realities of modern life. Companies that embrace flexibility and prioritize talent over geography will be the ones that thrive in the future.
“We love a girl on a mic. That’s an in for 2025. Give more girls microphones.”
— Arielle Houlihan, co-host of RedefinedPod
Leadership Lessons: Elevating Women in the Workplace
I’ve witnessed this truth time and again in my own career. Every time I have promoted a woman into a management or leadership role, they have taken ownership, excelled, and proven that achievement knows no gender. Time and time again, I’ve seen how giving women the platform they’ve rightfully earned benefits not just them but the entire organization. When we break down barriers, we open doors for untapped potential to flourish.
The Power of Giving Women Bigger Microphones
The significance of giving women “bigger microphones” cannot be overstated. It’s about more than just representation; it’s about acknowledging the immense talent and insight women bring to every field, be it sports, corporate America, or beyond. By embracing this change, we inch closer to a future where equality is the norm, not the exception.
A Call for Cultural Change
As we celebrate Jenny’s success, we must also reflect on the broader implications: the need for a cultural shift towards inclusivity, not just in sports but in all realms of life. By giving women “bigger microphones,” we acknowledge their rightful place in shaping narratives, driving change, and leading with distinction.
In this spirit of progress and humility, let’s continue to champion equality across the board. After all, in the pursuit of excellence, every voice matters.
About the Author:
Jeremy Victor is the Chief Customer Officer at Noom, author and host of the Business @ the Speed of AI newsletter and podcast (coming soon). He’s also the creator of The More Effect, a framework for unlocking human potential in the age of AI. With nearly 30 years of experience at the forefront of shaping business through transformative technologies, strategy, and leadership, he brings a modern view to the future of work, life, and leadership combining insights from his corporate leadership with lessons learned from coaching youth sports athletes.
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Did you know?
It will take 48 years for the representation of white women and women of color in senior leadership to reflect their share of the U.S. population.
#PARITYNOW is my personal mission to close the gender leadership and pay gap, fix the broken rung (the first critical step on the corporate ladder that women often miss), and create equal opportunities in leadership, work, and life. I’m committed to raising awareness and driving change for true gender parity across all industries.
This cause was born realizing my daughters will be 68 and 64 when true parity is achieved. Why aren’t more dads outraged by this? Right? Is it blind bias? I don’t know, whatever the answer it, I’m making it my mission to fix this. Will you join me?
Achievement knows no color. — Abraham Lincoln
Achievement knows no gender. — Jeremy Victor
You have to agree with this following statement, if not, I’m ready for the debate. It is time for change.
There is literally no difference, based on gender or race, in anyone’s ability to perform a task, make a decision, or lead in the modern workplace.