Madam Policy

In this episode of Madam Policy, hosts Dee Martin and Caitlin Sickles sit down with Diane Foley, founder of the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation. Following the murder of her son, American journalist James Foley, while reporting in Syria, Diane transformed personal tragedy into a national effort to improve support for families of hostages and wrongful detainees, strengthen journalist safety, and advance U.S. hostage policy. She discusses the evolution of the Foundation’s work, the importance of government engagement and public awareness, and the lessons she has learned about leadership, resilience, and moral courage in the face of unimaginable loss.

What do financial markets and motherhood have in common? More than you might think.
 
In this episode, Jamila Piracci, principal of Roos Innovations, joins host Dee Martin to explore the delicate act of translating financial markets to increase understanding between the public and private sectors. Jamila reflects on the ways motherhood, music, and entrepreneurship have shaped her leadership and decision-making over the years, guiding her journey from public service to building her own firm.

In this episode, host Dee Martin sits down with Amanda Van Dyke, Founder of the Critical Mineral Hub and author of The Mineral Imperative, to explore why critical minerals have become a defining issue for the global economy, national security, and industrial strategy. Amanda breaks down what qualifies as a critical mineral, why supply chains are increasingly vulnerable, and why understanding mineral systems is essential for policymakers.
 
Want to learn more about the hidden minerals powering modern life? Tune in now!

On this episode of Madam Policy, co-hosts Dee Martin and Caitlin Sickles sit down with Kris Thompson, CEO of Calvary Women’s Services, for a powerful conversation on what it truly takes to move women from crisis to independence. Together, they explore how permanent housing, job training, and holistic services are transforming lives—and why these solutions matter for policy, communities, and economic resilience. The discussion also highlights Calvary’s upcoming Hope Gala, a celebration of impact and possibility, where Dee Martin will be honored as this year’s Hope Award recipient.

Tax policy expert and former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs (Tax & Budget) at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Alice Lin joins Madam Policy host Dee Martin to discuss her journey from being a senior tax policy advisor in Congress to lead tax expert at Treasury. From helping develop the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) during her time on the House Ways and Means Committee to working on implementation as a senior tax policy advisor for the Senate Finance Committee to helping publish over 95 pieces of guidance on the IRA at Treasury, Alice shares her view on the future of the IRA and reconciliation. Want to hear how Alice's experience shadowing a congressional district office in high school put her on the path of public service? Listen now!