Women's Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is excited to continue our podcast series, "Tips From The Trail," hosted by WPLN Founder & President Larissa Martinez, where we explore the path to political office, from the decision to run to election day. In this episode, Larissa sits down with Amber Benzon, President and Founder of Level Up, to celebrate Women's History Month with a powerful conversation about why women's voices matter in politics — and what it takes to step into leadership with confidence.

See highlights from the episode below and listen to the podcast to capture all of the great advice Amber shared from her inspiring career.

• The Power of the Vouch: While being the most prepared person in the room is a great asset, your network and the people willing to vouch for you are what truly set you up for success. In politics, your capital is your reputation; being trustworthy and following through on your word is essential to maintaining that reputation.

• Finding Your Niche: You don’t need a ten-year plan to get involved in public service. Whether you serve as an elected official, a staffer, or a volunteer knocking on doors, finding a niche that serves you now is the first bold step in a journey that can lead from local to federal office.

• Breaking the Internal Barrier: Often, the biggest obstacle can be your internal voice that says if you’re not 100% prepared you can’t step into leadership. Amber encouraged listeners not to talk themselves out of taking on important projects or roles because they feel they are too big, but to ask for help and lean on your network. (Looking for mentorship and support in your state? Click here.)

• WPLN’s Fifth National Summit: Networking is about building a professional form of connection that elevates your brand of authenticity, which is exactly what women can expect at the upcoming WPLN’s Fifth National Summit in Pennsylvania. There will be amazing women who are at the top of their game from all over the country, providing practical, tactical training to help you leave more confident and prepared to show up as your best self.

If you're considering a run for office, remember that representation matters. Your unique perspective and lived experience can inspire others and bring new voices into the political process. WPLN is here to help you get there! Explore free candidate training resources on our website and check out our upcoming events where you can register for virtual and in-person programs and connect with a national network of women leaders.

Check out the full episode on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts!

ABOUT THE GUEST

Amber Benzon is a political strategist and advocate with nearly two decades of experience in public policy and government affairs. She is the President and Founder of Level Up, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing female mentorship, skill development training, and high-quality networking for center-right women leaders at every stage of their professional and public service journeys. Having recognized a lack of support for women outside the capitol building, Amber founded Level Up to ensure that talented women, from entrepreneurs to professional businesswomen, have the tools and the community they need to lead with confidence on the campaign trail and beyond.

In 2020, Amber launched her own boutique government affairs practice, Entresol Strategies, where she leverages her expertise in coalition building and grassroots advocacy to help clients navigate the complexities of the Pennsylvania government. Her career includes serving as senior staff within state agencies and leading government affairs for a statewide energy trade association.

As a mom of two, she is passionate about creating spaces where women can gain the tactical skills and mentorship needed to step into leadership roles with confidence.

Connect with Amber Benzon on LinkedIn.

WPLN, is a national nonprofit educating, organizing, and inspiring center- and right-leaning women to seek public office at all levels across the U.S. and become effective leaders. The views and policy positions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not represent endorsement by WPLN.