Jenny Rickman has been named the 2025 “Broad of the Year” by the Broad Pod, a locally based podcast that highlights women’s stories of resilience and impact.
Rickman, a teacher at Highland Elementary, said she was humbled by the recognition.
“Oh, my goodness. I don’t even know that I have words,” Rickman said. “It was totally a shock. Just thinking about the impact that I’m hoping to make, it doesn’t seem as big as so many people. It’s very humbling, and I’m just honored.”
Rickman said her life experiences have shaped the way she approaches her role as an educator, mother, and member of the Owensboro community. After losing her husband Troy to suicide eight years ago, she leaned heavily on her faith and support system in Owensboro to persevere.
“I’m huge on persevering, pushing through. If something’s hard, give yourself some grace but keep moving forward,” Rickman said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without my faith. God has carried me through a lot, and the peace He’s given me is unfathomable.”
The annual award is chosen by a panel of out-of-town judges who review stories from women featured on the podcast throughout the year. This marks the third year for the honor.
Podcast co-host Allyson Sanders described the event as a chance to hit pause on the chaos of daily life.
“It’s an amazing feel-good event,” Sanders said. “In a world full of drama and disagreements, it feels like it all pauses in this space. Just women celebrating women — and supportive men cheering us on.”
Her co-host, Jackie Sue Smith, said this season was one of transition, with Sanders stepping in after the departure of the show’s previous co-host and Smith welcoming a new baby.
“We had to quickly find a new recording location and teach ourselves new programs and technology,” Smith said. “We interviewed 17 incredible women from all walks of life. Our panel of judges named Jenny Rickman as our third ‘Broad of the Year.’”
Smith said partial proceeds from the celebration were donated to “We Are She, She Is Me,” an initiative launched by season three guest Maria Kelly to provide feminine hygiene products to local women.
“It brings us joy to highlight these women and remind them that they are more than enough and their stories have a ripple effect,” Smith said.
