Keep It or Change It? The Personal and Professional Stakes of a Woman’s Last Name, Episode 232

In this episode of the Women Offshore Podcast, hosts Ally Tenorio and Laura McFalls delve into the multifaceted decision women face regarding changing their last names after marriage. This conversation is not just about personal choices but also encompasses professional identities and legal implications.

The Personal Journey

Ally shares her experience of transitioning from Cedeno to Tenorio, highlighting the emotional and cultural considerations involved. Laura discusses her decision to retain her maiden name, emphasizing the importance of personal identity and the challenges of societal expectations.

Together, they unpack:

The tradition of name changing—and why it still sticks
The professional stakes of switching names mid-career
The bureaucratic beast that is legal name change paperwork
And a new twist: how proposed voting laws like the SAVE Act (2025) could make things even more complicated

The decision to change or retain a last name after marriage is deeply personal, with far-reaching professional and legal ramifications. Ally and Laura’s candid discussion sheds light on the complexities involved and encourages women to make informed choices that align with their identities and aspirations.

What about you?

Have you changed your name, or chosen not to? Did it feel empowering, annoying, or a bit of both?

We want to hear from our global community. Drop us a message at [email protected] and tell us how name changes have impacted your life, especially if you’re tuning in from outside the U.S. Your experience matters, and we may feature it in an upcoming episode.

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