How'd Her Career Get There?

*****Before we begin, please note that today's episode contains discussions that may be sensitive or triggering for some listeners. If you're struggling with your mental health, we encourage you to seek support—you're not alone, and help is available. While we are joined by a licensed therapist, this conversation is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional therapy.******In honor of May's Mental Health Awareness Month, we're joined by Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Katie Babcock, whose path to healing started in a childhood where she quickly learned to navigate uncertainty. She turned to sports and physical strength, but eventually realized that true safety comes from within. Today, Katie leads a therapy practice supporting high-achieving professionals grappling with burnout, unresolved trauma, attention difficulties, and substance difficulties. She's on a mission to destigmatize mental health and reframe so-called “issues” as normal human responses to pain. This episode is an honest, empowering reminder that healing is possible and that we all deserve support along the way.****If you're struggling or need support, please know that you're not alone—help is available. You can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or dial 211 to connect with local resources and support services in your area***https://www.counselingforprofessionals.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-babcock-cfp/https://www.facebook.com/katie.babs.9

In this episode, we sit down with Jaime Windon—photographer, journalist, world traveler, and founder of Maryland's first true cane-to-glass spirits distillery in over 40 years. Jaime shares her one-of-a-kind journey from global storytelling to entrepreneurial spirit-making. We talk about trusting your gut, taking creative risks, and building something entirely new from passion and vision. Whether you're into entrepreneurship, the craft beverage industry, or just love a good story, this episode will leave you inspired to forge your own path.Tune in to hear how Jaime blends creativity, bold decisions, and a deep sense of community to bring people together—one spirited adventure at a time.Links:https://www.lyonrum.comhttps://www.instagram.com/lyonrumhttps://www.facebook.com/lyonrum

Meet Gina Ramsey, president of Pink Dog Digital, whose journey from self-doubt to entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring. Starting out in her career, she wasn't always confident in her abilities. But with the encouragement of mentors who saw her grounded, no-nonsense approach to problem-solving, she started aiming higher. Eventually, she took the leap and built her own full-service digital marketing business—one that not only gives her the freedom to customize solutions for her clients, but also allows her to give back to the community she loves. Tune in as Gina shares her journey, lessons learned, and advice for anyone ready to bet on themselves!Mentioned During the Episode:https://pinkdogdigital.com Contact Gina Ramsey at gina@pinkdogdigital.com or 410-696-3305https://theregoesmyhero.org/https://www.jabcecc.org/https://www.sharebaby.org/https://themmrf.org/https://broadwaycares.org/

Karen Barbour's journey is one of resilience, determination, and purpose. After losing her mother at a young age, she took pride in caring for her father while developing a strong work ethic that would later define her career. She went on to build a successful surety bond business and became a fierce advocate for small businesses, founding organizations like the Alliance for Hispanic Commercial Contractors. But for Karen, success isn't just about business—it's about giving back. As the founder of Party for a Cure Corporation, she also dedicates her time and resources to supporting children and adults with neuromuscular diseases. In this episode, Karen shares how her upbringing shaped her drive, the lessons she's learned, and why paying it forward is at the heart of everything she does.Links for items mentioned during the episode:https://www.thebarbourgroup.com/https://www.nsbpusa.org/http://www.bgnetworkusa.com/https://www.pfac-md.org/https://www.ahcc-midatlantic.org/

In this episode, we're joined by Susie Comer, a true trailblazer in the construction industry. As a woman leading her family's construction business, Susie carries forward a legacy of hard work and trust instilled by her dedicated father. She shares her unique experience stepping into this role, the values that guide her, and how she's built her own path in a traditionally male-dominated field. Beyond her work, Susie is deeply committed to giving back, having founded or served in several volunteer organizations to support her community. Tune in to Episode 53 to hear her invaluable insights and the lessons that have shaped her path! Links for Volunteering and Outreach: Charhope Foundation: https://www.charhope.org/ Upper Chesapeake Senator Bob Hooper House: https://www.bobhooperhouse.org/ Toys for Tots: www.toysfortots.org GBMC Walk in their shoes - https://www.classy.org/event/old___10th-annual-walk-a-mile-in-their-shoes/e508619 Touch A truck Events at Highlands School: https://www.comerconstruction.com/community-involvement/touch-a-truck-the-highland-school-2024/ Comer Construction website: https://www.comerconstruction.com Comer Construction Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comerconstructioninc/

In this episode, we meet Dana Clark of Clark | Azar & Associates Inc., a trailblazing civil engineer and successful business owner who's breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Passionate about empowering women, she's dedicated to mentoring young professionals and creating a supportive environment for them in her industry. Through her leadership, she's giving women a voice, inspiring the next generation of engineers, and proving that with determination and the right support, women can thrive in any field. Mentioned During Episode: Baltimore Crew: https://baltimore.crewnetwork.org Company website: http://www.clarkazar.com Clark | Azar LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clark-azar-associates/ Clark | Azar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100034784871808

Meet Jennifer Dewees, the president of Maryland Center for Construction Education and Innovation, Inc. and co-founder of Maryland Apprenticeship Connector. Her passion lies in unlocking the potential of tomorrow's workforce. Since traditional paths of college or trade schools aren't always the right path for everyone, Jennifer sees boundless opportunities in apprenticeships. She believes these hands-on experiences offer a direct route to stable careers in the trades, often overlooked and undervalued. But Jennifer's vision extends beyond just reshaping the future of work; she's also an advocate for mass workforce adoption in traditionally male-dominated fields. She envisions a world where women confidently pursue careers in the trades, breaking barriers and forging new paths. With her unwavering enthusiasm and determination, Jennifer is paving the way for a future where talent knows no gender and opportunity knows no bounds. https://macworkforce.org https://mccei.org https://nawicdc.org/Camp_NAWIC

Pattie Dash joins Lauren in Episode 50 of “How'd Her Career Get There?” where she reflects on her career path through the nonprofit sector. Her trajectory was marked by continual growth, fueled not only by the support of mentors but also by the strong foundation and moral lessons instilled by her parents. Recognizing her potential, these mentors guided her journey, nurturing her talents and empowering her to advocate for roles that sparked her curiosity. Her story highlights the profound impact of mentorship and self-belief in forging a fulfilling career path. Through newfound confidence, Pattie's narrative imparts invaluable lessons for anyone navigating their professional journey. Links for topics mentioned during the episode: National Kidney Foundation for MD & DE: https://www.kidney.org/offices/nkf-serving-maryland-delaware Upcoming Events for National Kidney Foundation: https://www.kidney.org/events Sante Event: https://support.kidney.org/event/2024-sante-giving-back-for-kidney-disease/e538425 Upcoming National Kidney Foundation Walks: https://www.kidneywalk.org

In this captivating episode of "How'd Her Career Get There?" Lauren delves into the journey of Kathleen Methric, who traded her flute for a lab coat and eventually found her rhythm in the pharmaceutical industry. Growing up, she thought about pursuing a career in music, but her practical father's advice steered her towards a more stable path in the sciences. Embracing his wisdom, she pursued her studies, only to discover that her true passion lay beyond the walls of a laboratory. Join us for this episode as we dive into Kathleen's inspiring journey—a tale of finding harmony between dreams and reality, and the unwavering pursuit of purpose and passion. Links for the listeners: Kidney risk quiz: https://www.kidney.org/kidney-quiz/  March is National Kidney Month: https://www.kidney.org/news/national-kidney-foundation-recognizes-march-national-kidney-month  National Kidney Foundation serving Baltimore and Delaware: https://www.kidney.org/offices/nkf-serving-maryland-delaware  May fundraiser: https://www.kidney.org/events/local-event/2024-sante-giving-back-kidney-disease Get involved: https://www.kidney.org/get-involved

In this episode Lauren talks with Louise Blomqvist, EMEA President of Bambuser.  Coming to New York City from a small town in Sweden, Louise shares her story starting with aspirations of ballet and shifting to retail and working with luxury brands.  The through line of her life is deep-routed in work ethic and personal connection.  Hear how those attributes helped drive her career and propel those around her.  Listen, laugh and take note of what happens when opportunity meets ambition. *****Note: At timestamp 28:14 Louise is referring back to the previous episode Lauren recorded with Shannen Stewart of Heels & Handshakes where Shannen states: "I rent my title but I own my character. I'm Shannen Stewart, I'm not the CEO and founder of Heels and Handshakes, that can go away at any time. So just working on not always having to achieve - that doesn't link to my identity, my self worth.” ***** Listen to Shannen's episode here:  https://bit.ly/47y0wfi

In this episode, Lauren talks with business owner Tiffany Wondrow, President of C&R Services based in Nashville, Tennessee. Hear Tiffany talk about growing up in New Orleans with an entrepreneurial mom and an alcoholic father. Going into the military before eventually joining forces with her husband in a commercial painting business, Tiffany talks openly about not letting your past define you and how she works hard everyday to provide a positive experience for employees. She's on a mission to get more people, particularly women, into trades and is involved in the community, networking events and organizations doing just that. Recently named a Nashville Women of Influence, hear her compelling story. Find Tiffany on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/candrservicesinc/ Email Tiffany: tiffany@candrservicesinc.com

This week Lauren talks with Dr. Emerald Mitchell, the Founder and Executive Director of Moves and Grooves.  Dr. Mitchell's journey will leave you clapping, cheering and wanting to get up and dance!  Hear how she founded an organization to help youths in the community because she had such an impactful experience with a similar organization as a child.  Raised by a single mom and one of 5 children, she learned the value of resilience and giving back.  Fast forward to today, her non-profit hits its 20 year anniversary and they've got big plans for Antioch, TN (near Nashville).  Join in, spread the word and listen to a journey filled with learning and how intentional small acts can help positively affect youth and future generations. To learn more about Moves & Grooves and its upcoming events: https://movesandgrooves.org/ Giving Tuesday Campaign Link: https://givebutter.com/MAG-GivingTuesday Donate a brick to the new Youth Arts and Innovation Center! You'll have a laser engraved brick in your name and leave a lasting legacy: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E354599&id=32

Jump in and listen to this episode as Lauren talks with Shannen Stewart, Founder of Heels and Handshakes.  Learn how this Nashville native took her relationship building and networking expertise to help empower others to meet, greet, and build meaningful connections.  But make no mistake about it, this driving entrepreneur is partially fueled by her desire to help people develop beneficial and lucrative business relationships.  Recently named as a Nashville Women of Influence, hear how Shannen to this day even has to remind herself to celebrate the successes and lessons learned along the way. To learn more about Heels & Handshakes, an all-inclusive membership dedicated to helping women in business and entrepreneurs put their best "heel" forward: https://www.heelsandhandshakes.com Heels & Handshakes IG: https://www.instagram.com/heelsandhandshakes/

In this episode, Lauren talks with Michele Bendekovic about her journey navigating the human side of the law industry. Michele realized early in her career that her gifts lie in understanding the people side of the industry and the importance of attracting and retaining talent through inclusion. Actively involved in the non-profit space as well, the through line in Michele's career is purpose driven. Learn about her journey and what she'd tell her younger self. To find out more about the non-profit organizations Michele mentions in the episode: Link to non-profit Jazz Empowers:https://www.jazzempowers.org/ Link to AWIN: https://advancingwomeninnashville.com/

Come laugh, learn and be inspired about your money choices! On this episode Lauren talks with Jean Lynn, a Certified Financial Planner with years of corporate experience in the financial services industry. A now turned entrepreneur, speaker, and author, Jean shares her journey to financial wellness and perspective to reframe or enhance your relationship with money. Growing up in the midwest, a curious and creative kid, we learn how Jean giving herself permission and ridding herself of her own limiting beliefs, led her to warm and sunny skies— literally. Pick up Jean's latest book, Breaking the Money Taboo : Helping women get comfortable with an uncomfortable topic on Amazon now: https://a.co/d/hHpqieA To learn more about Jean and the services she offers, please find her at her website: https://yourfinancialpersonality.com

Misty Bruce joins Lauren to talk about her background that landed her in an Executive Director role supporting Veterans. Learn how Misty's journey led her to find true purpose in her day to day work and how the work ethic engrained in her from a child growing up in Texas serves her well to this day. We talk about how unpredictable events and overcoming loss in life shapes our trajectory. Misty's life and work experience has taught her that there is no replacement for being authentically you and that a little kindness goes a long way. Link to upcoming annual Veterans Virtual Run & Walk (held 11/9/23-11/14/23): https://runsignup.com/Race/MD/Baltimore/MCVETVeteransDayRace To find out more information about MCVET and its mission to support our veterans: https://www.mcvet.org

This is a must listen! Lauren talks with Tracy L. Lawrence, the Founder and CEO of The Lawrence Advisory. Lawrence recently served as the first Executive-in-Residence at USC's Marshall School of Business, advising faculty, administration, and students on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. A Stanford grad, followed up with Harvard Business School is just the tip of the ice berg. MTV, Fox, ABC Family- all places where Tracy passed through on her way to starting her own business. Hear her story and be inspired!

Jump on this amazing journey with us as I talk with Rahel Bayar. Rahel is a former prosecutor turned entrepreneur, who started The Bayar Group. As a consultant, Rahel developed and delivered customized interactive workshops, lectures and trainings for K-12 schools, camps, sports organizations, media outlets, financial firms, law firms, global youth organizations, faith-based organizations and nonprofits across North America. Join us and hear how it started and her purpose behind it all.

On this episode, I talk with Jill Demby Guest about her path to becoming an Emmy nominated, multi-Award-winning producer, writer and director. We talk about what influenced Jill as a kid and the moment that led her to make her new documentary, And Now, Love, which is now streaming on Apple TV, iTunes, Amazon Prime, and other major streaming platforms. Jill has worked with iconic companies like Disney and Warner Brothers, producing numerous documentaries for their DVD releases including “The West Wing,” “John Lennon: Imagine with Yoko Ono,” “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane” and “National Treasure.” She received a Promax Gold Award, and two Best Documentary Director and Best Documentary Awards at three film festivals. Listen in and learn about her journey!

Join me on this episode as we talk with Ruth Hollman, the Founder and Executive Director of SHARE! the Self-help And Recovery Exchange in Los Angeles (www.shareselfhelp.org). She is a cultural anthropologist by training and did her PhD dissertation research in Thailand. She received the American Psychological Association SCRA Award for Distinguished Contribution to Practice in Community Psychology for the innovative programs she has designed to facilitate recovery for mental health consumers. Listen in as Ruth shares her personal journey.

Check out this episode, where I speak with Gabrielle Welter about her career journey. The path has a common theme- hustle and helping her customers. Ranging from growing a book of business in insurance sales to specializing in reverse mortgages, the common thread of drive pours through. The bonus in this episode is if you are interested in learning more about reverse mortgages, you get a crash course. Learn more at https://myhousecounts.com

Listen to this episode where Lauren talks with Jennifer Aurianne DaRe, the Founder and President of ATN Entertainment. Hear Jennifer's story as she navigates the entertainment talent management space and hear from her, the significant role relationships play in growing a business.

On this episode, I am joined by Susan Ruddie Spring. We learn how Susan took her extensive experience in costume design and applied it to a totally new market- the wedding industry! Learn how she made the transition, what inspires her, and how following her passion led her to run her own business.

Get ready for this one because it is awesome! Felicite Moorman joins me to talk about her career, which included law school, and then finding and selling a company in the IoT space. Along the way, she raised capital, received multiple awards, including being named a recipient of Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur Of The Year Award. An active member of the community, Felicite is also a big believer of giving back. Her will and grit to get results are traits she's had since childhood and it continues to hold true.

This episode I talk with Theresa Leatherbury, President and CEO of Rachuba. We talk real estate and Theresa's stepping in to run a long-standing generational family business. She started her career as an actuary and then went a different direction to join Rachuba. We talk about the delicate balance of being confident and asking for help and how Theresa learned the value of both on her journey. Pushing that further, she learned that leadership isn't always about approval, but rather charting the course.

This is a must listen! Janis Milham joins me to talk about a journey, which led her from a small town in Kansas to Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader where she led vision, strategy and execution for all facets of global brand positioning, strategy, product design, guest experience and marketing for seven of Marriott's 30 brands. Her energy is contagious and her passion now has her focusing on leadership development with Questage. She is a champion of women, diversity, and anyone with a drive to improve themselves and contribute to a larger purpose.

On this episode, I am joined by Beth McCart, Senior Recruiter for Ramsey Solutions based in Nashville. We talk about her journey, which led her to financial well-being, personal fulfillment, and a job she loves! She shares how her husband's near death time in the hospital led to financial piece of mind and ultimately served as the catalyst for her current job. Beth talks about the challenges starting a family and how it all intersects as a constant driver for her to show up everyday doing what she loves! Beth also co-founded WomenGetIT, a tribe for women in tech. In Beth's own words- "In 2016, my husband spend most of the year in a hospital bed fighting for his life. We were given a 20% chance that he would survive, but it would require several surgeries, blood transfusions, and a whole lot of prayer. I was a mess – we were over 70k in debt, medical bills rolling in every day, and on the verge of losing the house because the loss of income. Not to mention, I was looking at being a widow before the age of 30. I hit rock bottom. Soon after, I found Ramsey’s financial material and decided that this was the one thing we could control in the world of chaos we found ourselves in. My husband and I started the program while I was interviewing with the company. In less than 14 months, we became debt free. We were no longer slaves to our lenders – we were free. And the weight that lifted off our shoulders was indescribable. My husband still has health challenges, but we are in a totally different place than where we used to be. We came out of survival mode into a place were we could have hope and dreams for our future. In 2018, we found out that we were unlikely to start a family and our doctors urged us to try IVF before it was too late. Because of what Ramsey teaches, we were able to pay the $27,000 worth of fertility expenses with cash! After hundreds of injections, two egg retrievals, and a miscarriage – we were blessed with our miracle, Abigail. She was born on July 3, 2020."

Amanda Gianotti joins me and we talk about taking over and running a family business. A natural born sales person, Amanda's approach is customers first at Allogram. She observed and learned the value of hard work and education after watching her parents hustle and build a business. She followed suit and took over the business, growing it significantly! Beyond all this, Amanda's definition of success- happiness!

Join me as I talk with Dr. Lola Adeyemi. We talk about her life in multiple countries and what that taught her as a child and into her adult life. A doctor by trade, based on her own experience, she saw a gap in mentorship and therefore created Mentoring Her, an online platform designed to facilitate making meaningful connections with other women. With degrees from Johns Hopkins (Go Blue Jays!) and Harvard, she is not only intelligent, but also deliberate in her approach to solving this mentorship challenge.

In this episode I talk with Jennifer Yang, whose career journey has taken her from consulting to entrepreneurship with overlaps in technology, event planning, and whiskey. She was raised with the foundation of hard work and high aspirations. The perceived sacrifices made as a child have paid off as she graduated from MIT and then jumped into her first job. Hear how this self-proclaimed, risk-averse woman always remains open to possibilities and follows her passions, as she is guided by the mantra "always be honest with yourself."

Join as I talk with Gina Dubbe. We talk about growing up in West Virginia and fast forward to her building and selling her first company. She then co-founded a cannabis medical dispensary and she shares the wonderful parts and the challenges associated with starting that type of wellness business. All this while raising 2 children. Gina is wildly intelligent, charismatic, direct, and thoughtful in how she speaks. This is a must listen if you are curious about the cannabis business or interested in hearing how a fantastic entrepreneur built businesses 2 times over.

This episode, we have a two-fer! I talk with Courtney Wandeloski and Laura Deimling, building on their longtime friendship, they decided to jump into business together. We talk about what led them to start their business and how they have had to make adjustments in 2020. This is a great episode if you are considering getting into business with a friend; hear how they divide and conquer, and leverage their individual strengths.

On this episode, I talk with Angel Johnson, who spans her career across multiple sectors including IT and real estate. Growing up in the heart of Philly, we talk about how her outspokenness and energetic personality weren't always viewed as a strength by outsiders, but fast forward and without a doubt have served her well in leadership roles. Her natural curiosity led her to IT, while she stumbled upon her love of real estate after seeing opportunity in an initial modest investment. Hear her story, as she talks about the value of family and finding joy in simply having the chance to try and experience new things!

She's energetic, smart, direct and she's this episode's guest on the How'd Her Career Get There? podcast. Shana Cosgrove joins me to talk about her path to starting a Software Engineering and Data Science company, Nyla Technology Solutions. We talk about the integration of life- at the office and at home, as well as what led her to start a business. This is a must listen for any entrepreneur or software engineer who aspires to bring great products to the market.

In this episode, I talk with Deanna Steele about her path getting into digital technology, retail and e-commerce. In addition to her background, we touch on delivering for retail customers during the current economic climate and reinvigorating the customer relationship. A west coast girl at heart, she's made her way east as her career grew and now sits as an Executive of a publicly traded company. I've met Deanna a handful of times and every time, her professional polish, intelligence, warmth and chic wardrobe stand out. This is a must listen for anyone in retail business, customer service, or looking to better understand the path of a C-level tech executive.

On this episode, I talk with Saleema Vellani, Co-Founder & Chief Innovation Strategist of Innovazing. We talk about the experiences which led her to find and speak her true voice, all while learning 5 languages and building and selling a company along the way. Her spark is the ability to take challenging circumstances and turn them into opportunity. She thrives on using her creativity to make a positive impact and is wrapping up her soon to be completed first book!

Carolyn Walton Lynch joins me to talk about her journey and a new social network. Think a marketplace, but for events and going solo is the whole point! By the way, solo has nothing to do with being single or married or dating or any of that. An accountant by trade, her knowledge in finance and operations led her to start a business with 300 employees at its peak. The unwinding of that business propelled her forward to a new chapter and business idea. Shying away from challenges is not her style and as you'll hear, not believing in personal limits has been a constant in her life. Link up at https://www.mixolo.io/

If you haven’t yet heard how Lynne Brick built a fitness empire with her husband, Victor, you’ll learn in this episode! We talk about being in business with family, as well as health scares along the way, and of course Lynne’s own fitness tips to continue looking and, more importantly, feeling great! We talk about making intentional decisions while raising two children and growing a regional, national and now global business. Check out these links that we discussed in the podcast: Planetfitness.com BrickBodies.com JohnWBrickFoundation.org JWB5k.com (JWB 5K and 1-mile family fun run on 4/26/2020 at Towson University, 9am go time) Bonus time! After the camera was off, Lynne and I started talking about feng shui, the management of energy in a space and in your life. She shared more with me that I wanted to in turn share! She said, "Victor and I live by the principles of feng shui personally and professionally. Hope Gerecht is our feng shui consultant who guides us according to our feng shui chart, specifically based on the year, day, month and hour we were born. We know our power colors, know our power direction and sign all important documents only during designated times, according to our feng shui chart. We are grateful that Hope and feng shui have had such a positive influence in our life!"

Heidi Hiller joins me on this episode to talk all things party! As the Owner and Creative Director of Innovative Party Planners, we talk about what it takes to make it in a competitive business and why she chose creating event experiences as her career. Her path wasn't planned, but when you have talent, it tends to pull you in directions not anticipated. Learn how she works to integrate work and family as business grows.

Tammie Monaco joins me on this episode to talk about following your own true path. An equestrian college riding program brought to her Baltimore from New York, where she eventually started a business. She recently acquired a second business and still maintains her love of photography and horses as her side hustle. As a self-admitted "not great employee," she knew entrepreneurship was her path.

From a publishing powerhouse to starting a healthy snack food company with her daughter, Nancy Becker talks with me about her career. To tell you Nancy's energy is contagious would be an understatement. She is smart, humble, and enthusiastic all rolled into one. She and her daughter, Bridget Greaney, started 2Betties – a healthy snack food company based out of Baltimore. Nancy and I talk about scaling a company, the shift to starting a business, and of course, what it's like working with her daughter (spoiler alert- Mom's proud!). If you haven't tried 2Betties products, now is your chance. Order online and use the code created for this podcast- 15OFF to get the tasty treats. And what's the name about? “Betty” means a confident chick or a best friend in some female circles. This business has 2!

On this episode, I talk with the uber talented Loretta Stokes. Her path led her to be one of the most talented leaders in the Nashville technology community. Her accolades of being named a Women of Influence by the Nashville Business Journal and Emerging Leader of the Year by the Nashville Technology Council are just some of the recognition she has received for being a driving force for women in technology. Her work ethic and desire to encourage future generations to be great leaders are just a few of her underlying motivators. This is a must listen episode for anybody trying to find their way in the tech space.

This episode Annette Walter joins me to talk about her journey. Annette is a kick butt entrepreneur who helped build and sell her first business, only to start and run two businesses simultaneously following. If you've met her, you know her energy can fill a room. Hear her talk about the challenges business owners face and tips to overcome common setbacks in the workplace. She talks about the trends she sees most entrepreneurs struggle with and offers her advice on how to overcome those hurdles. Family is beyond important to her; so much that she's found a way to incorporate both her sons into the business she and her husband run.

This episode with Kara Redman is fan-tas-tic! She thrives being “comfortable with the uncomfortable.” Now as the CEO and Founder of Backroom (backroom.io), she continues her consultative and direct style to help brands grow. The people Kara have learned from the most are the practical ones that quite simply have the trait of “not giving a…” Hear her talk about healthy conflict in business and how her first job as a telemarketer shaped her approach to sales. Side note- The shout out Kara gives at minute 41:26 for Leigh Gorge… you can catch Leigh on Episode 6 of the How’d Her Career Get There? podcast.

On this episode, the impressive Michele Eberle joins me to talk about a journey that takes her from east to west coast (and back again). Her career started in healthcare, takes a turn into politics, and currently she is the Executive Director of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange. Her inclusive leadership style and approach to employee engagement is beyond impressive. She also throws in a few must visit places for those that love to travel. After all, her never ending appetite to learn has taken her around the globe. *To be accurate, there are two small corrections Michele pointed out after we spoke- meeting her friend who was a field director was actually for the state representative race and Mike Miller was from the Senate.

Carol talks about growing up as the oldest of six kids, and how her work ethic (which included changing her siblings diapers at age 6), tenacity and leadership skills led her to success in organizational growth and turnarounds of multi-million dollar companies. Seeking family and career balance not consistent with turnarounds, she ultimately found her passion in consulting with high growth small to medium sized companies and her participation on boards. Carol shares her candid stories about her early career exploration from cancer scientist to social worker to finance/growth expert.

This episode I talk with Randi Pupkin, Founder and Executive Director of Art with a Heart. If you don't know Randi, you should listen to this episode. If you do know Randi, you should listen to this episode. She talks about growing up in Baltimore and the leap from being a lawyer to starting a non-profit. So, what's the connection between those careers? Randi knew from a young age, she was born to make the world a better place.

This episode I talk with Deb Tillett about growing up "Mad Men" style and how her fearless drive to achieve led her to ETC Baltimore, with many glamorous stops along the way. She unapologetically encourages entrepreneurs and everyone to assess your personal and professional vision... and go for it! Deb wanted me to add that the book referenced is actually called "Strengths Finders 2.0" and on that My Fair Lady part-- it's George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion. Now, who knew that?!

MaryBeth and I talk about the thing that connects us all-- we're human. We learn about her growing up and what led her to the non-profit world before ultimately creating SparkVision. SparkVision is championing a meaningful way for corporations and teams to interact, reminding us that people, purpose and connection matter. Join on this journey that starts with a girl growing up in DC and although still unfolding, is likely to end with a cowgirl on the prairie.

Christine and I talk about how she navigated her career to provide and build global brand awareness and strategy for companies. She talks about her life growing up in Baltimore and why she has chosen to stay and raise her kids in the city. We dive into how she found and stays true to her unique voice, while becoming a sought after speaker and writing contributor to national publications.

Kait and I talk about her path that included everything from modeling to business to sales to marketing. Her passion for marketing led to a variety of industries, including loans and cannabis. Her knowledge with LinkedIn drove her to find the The Influence Academy to help thought leaders monetize their expertise- learn more at theinfluence.academy.