Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!
When I asked Kristin Burke, “Why do you want to start a chapter in Tulsa, Oklahoma?” she replied, “I recently discovered I’m the happiest when discussing policy and current events.” We love that Kristin simply figured out what puts a smile on her face, and now she is gathering other happy warriors to have some fun while getting battle-ready.
We asked Kristin…
Where do you live?
Glenpool, OK (just south of Tulsa)
How did you get involved with IWN?
I have had a passion for politics since living in the Northern Virginia area. I started out listening to WMAL every day and eventually saw some posts for IWN on social media. In 2016, my family and I moved to New Jersey. My best friend moved to Northern Virginia just as I moved away and I lovingly pestered her to attend every political event I found out about. She crossed paths with Carrie Sheffield and because they are both such kind and inspiring women, they hit it off and became friends! Carrie encouraged my friend to attend her local IWN chapter meeting. She eventually became a Chapter Co-Leader. She spoke so highly of the organization (confirming what I already thought about IWN) that it made me sad that there was not a chapter in New Jersey. I felt politically isolated and had no one to chat about politics with! After the pandemic, we moved to the beautiful state of Oklahoma. While I’m not as politically isolated here, God pressed it upon my heart that Tulsa needed an IWN chapter. After praying about it and putting it on my vision board, I reached out to make it happen! Oklahoma is a red state, but it will take work and action to keep it that way. We launch on July 22nd!
Where do you fit politically?
I have always leaned to the right and voted Republican, but I also espouse some Libertarian views (most notably when it comes to fiscal matters). I am the daughter of a retired Border Patrol agent, and grew up on a small ranch in South Texas, which has formed my strong opinion on strong borders. I’ve seen first-hand how dangerous illegal immigration is. I strongly believe that the 2nd amendment guarantees all the other amendments. I believe in American Exceptionalism. I am unapologetic in my patriotism and I WILL cry every time the Star Spangled Banner is played.
Have you changed politically over the years?
No. I was raised by two rather conservative parents- their politics and beliefs seemed like common sense to me! I haven’t changed politically, but I did learn to hide my beliefs from my peers for a very long time – as some points probably not as well as I thought. Especially in 2020, when I was watching cities burn, my neighbors had BLM signs in their yards, and the term “Nazi” was used to describe anyone that voted for President Trump or did fall into lockstep agreement with whatever the issue of the day was. I’m done hiding, though. My children are watching me and if I don’t show them how to stand up for what’s right, who will?
What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?
Democrats and Republicans have moved further apart ideologically over the past few decades. This polarization is one of the most important issues facing our country today.My prayer is that Americans will open their eyes to see the corrupt agendas at play that seek to manipulate them and become active in rising up to challenge the status quo! The brain-washing at the hands of the powerful elites and universities must come to an end – we all saw during Biden’s presidency, the Emperor had no clothes.
How do you spend your free time?
Quality Time is my love language, so in my free time, I love spending time with my amazing husband – even mundane tasks like grocery shopping are fun with him! I love to spend time with my two teenagers. I am very blessed to have my parents live 2 blocks away, so I am very happy to spend time with them, as well. I like to read and listen to podcasts (I still listen to WMAL everyday). I attend church in Tulsa, and I am in a “Moms of Teens” small group through my church. I also like to travel! My best friend and I are embarking on a 2-week European vacation tomorrow!
When did your Chapter launch?
July 22, 2025
How many members are in your Chapter?
So far, just me!
What are the main issue areas and goals of your Chapter?
Although I would like to poll the chapter once we launch and focus on the issues we, as a collective, are passionate about, I’d like for my chapter to focus on education in Oklahoma and embracing Gen Z. I have a child that will be starting high school in the fall. If there’s one thing the extreme left is good at, it is reaching our youth via the education system. We need to be better at it than they are and we need to focus on teaching our children how to think critically. Reaching out to the next generation and embracing them into the fold is the foundational work needed to keep this red state red. Let’s do the work!
