Thousands of women turned out Wednesday to attend the Massachusetts Conference for Women, listening for advice, career tips and lifestyle improvements. The program, held at the Menino Convention Center in Boston, was emceed by WCVB’s own Maria Stephanos, and included keynote speakers, entrepreneur Martha Stewart, athlete Simone Biles and bestselling author and podcast host Mel Robbins. “This podcast is taped here in the Seaport. We have a team of 50 people that work 100 hours every episode,” Robbins said.
Robbins says her podcast is now the third-largest in the world, according to Apple. “We waste so much of our time,” Robbins said. “We give it away, we allow just annoying people and meaningless things to drain it. I’m gonna give everybody a wake-up call about how much their time matters and they matter.” Seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles also spoke at the event, encouraging women to speak up and believe in themselves. “If you get the answer no, then you’re asking the wrong person,” Biles said. “Being vulnerable is courage, and you have to take the time for yourself, and that’s what you deserve.”
Many women in attendance at the all-day conference said they walked away with ways to empower each other. “You get to learn from people every single day, is like everyone has a story to tell, something to teach you, and so that’s why I’m here,” said Mabel Tuge. “Connecting, really, in the world that we live in now, it’s very important that we take time to connect with other human beings,” said Angela Repa. “We all really need that just as people.”
A Conference That Sparked Powerful Conversations
Every year, the Boston Women’s Conference brings together trailblazers, innovators, and leaders who are reshaping the world. But this year? It hit differently. With Simone Biles and Martha Stewart headlining the keynote sessions, the event became a cultural moment—one that blended resilience, reinvention, and empowerment into a single unforgettable gathering.
From Olympic gold to lifestyle empire-building, these two women embody different but equally powerful forms of strength. Their appearances left thousands inspired, motivated, and ready to take bold action in their own lives. If you’ve been craving a spark of inspiration, buckle up—this conference delivered it in abundance.
The Impact of High-Profile Keynotes in Women’s Empowerment Events
Why Simone Biles and Martha Stewart Were the Perfect Choices
Their industries could not be more different. One flips through the air with superhuman precision; the other flips business empires with fearless innovation. Yet both women have built legacies rooted in power, authenticity, and unmatched work ethic.
Two Icons, One Purpose
They didn’t come to talk about medals or multimillion-dollar brands—they came to talk about resilience, growth, and the power of owning your story.
Simone Biles: Redefining Strength on Her Own Terms
From Olympic Gold to Global Advocate
Simone Biles is far more than the most decorated gymnast in history. Her voice has become a symbol for mental health advocacy, boundary-setting, and choosing self-worth over external expectations.
Her Message to Boston
During her keynote, Biles emphasized the importance of mental wellness, transparency, and embracing vulnerability. It wasn’t a speech—it was a reminder that even the strongest can struggle, and that strength often means knowing when to pause.
Triumph After Turmoil
She candidly addressed the pressures of elite competition and how stepping back from the Tokyo Olympics allowed her to step into a healthier, more grounded version of herself.
Martha Stewart: The Art of Reinvention at Any Age
A Lifestyle Mogul with Decades of Influence
From bestselling cookbooks to television, branding, and even unexpected collaborations with personalities like Snoop Dogg, Stewart continues to reinvent her image long after most people would consider slowing down.
Her Keynote Message
Her session focused on courage, creativity, and staying adaptable in a shifting world. Stewart reminded attendees that age is neither a barrier nor a limitation—it’s simply another chapter.
The Power of Fresh Starts
She discussed rebuilding her career, expanding her empire, and embracing opportunities that others might consider “unconventional.”
Boston Women’s Conference: A Gathering of Changemakers
Attendance That Surpassed Expectations
Thousands of professionals, students, entrepreneurs, and leaders attended, creating an atmosphere buzzing with collaboration and purpose.
A Space for Learning and Connection
The event offered workshops, panel discussions, networking sessions, and mentorship opportunities—each designed to amplify women’s voices and strengthen their leadership skills.
Why Events Like This Matter
These conferences shape careers, build confidence, and create ripple effects that extend far beyond the conference hall.
Key Themes That Dominated the Conference
Resilience and Mental Health
Simone Biles’ personal journey highlighted the importance of protecting one’s well-being in high-performance environments.
Reinvention and Adaptability
Martha Stewart’s keynote reinforced that reinvention is not weakness—it’s evolution.
Leadership in a New Era
Speakers emphasized empathy, authenticity, emotional intelligence, and collaborative leadership.
Empowering the Next Generation
Future leaders in attendance walked away with actionable tools and renewed confidence.
The Audience Reaction: Inspiration That Hit Deep
Social Media Erupted
Within minutes of their speeches, hashtags connected to the conference began trending. Attendees shared quotes, videos, and reflections that echoed a single theme: this event changed something in them.
Personal Stories Surfaced
Many attendees related deeply to Biles’ mental health message and Stewart’s message about embracing every season of life.
What This Means for Women’s Conferences Nationwide
Star Power Matters—But Substance Matters More
The event didn’t go viral simply because of big names—it did because of the authenticity behind the messages.

A New Standard for Women’s Leadership Events
The Boston Women’s Conference raised the bar by blending celebrity, vulnerability, and powerful professional insights into one cohesive experience.
Final Thoughts: A Moment That Will Be Remembered
Simone Biles and Martha Stewart delivered more than words—they delivered clarity, confidence, and courage. The Boston Women’s Conference became a reminder that strength looks different for everyone, and there’s no “right” way to build a life you’re proud of.
Their stories were not just inspiring—they were proof that no matter what you face, you can rise, rebuild, and reinvent.
Conclusion
The Boston Women’s Conference didn’t just bring together two powerhouse speakers—it brought together ideas that have the potential to change lives. Attendees left with renewed motivation, practical insights, and a deeper understanding of what leadership, resilience, and reinvention truly look like.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a student, a seasoned leader, or simply someone seeking inspiration, the messages shared at this year’s conference offer something valuable for every woman ready to step into her power.