From Jersey To Utah: One Woman's Journey Through PR, Politics, And Purpose Elevate: A Women's Leadership Institute podcast

45:02

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. How do you brew a successful career in communications while creating meaningful community impact? For Nikki Walker, founder and CEO of NWPR & Consulting, the answer lies in patience, authenticity, and taking up space unapologetically. Having spent 25 years in public relations and communications, Walker brings a unique perspective on how the industry has transformed. "Ten years ago it was really about the magazines on the newsstands," she explains. "Now it is about the quick hit and how quickly you can get on someone's Instagram feed." This rapid evolution demands new metrics, strategies, and an understanding that the turnaround time is, in her words, "insane." Walker's career path exemplifies the value of circling back to your strengths. After running a PR agency for a decade, working in global brand awareness for a multi-billion dollar company, and diving into tech industry community engagement and DEI, she recently relaunched her PR firm. Alongside this professional renaissance, she's returned to school for her communications degree at Western Governors University—proving it's never too late to formalize the expertise you've developed through experience. The most compelling thread throughout our conversation is Walker's passionate belief in mentorship. "My mentor once told me that it takes time to brew coffee. If you want a good cup of coffee, you got to brew it. You can't have instant coffee," she shares. This philosophy extends beyond professional development into how she approaches board service with organizations like the State Workforce Development Board, Utah Foster Care, the Children's Center, and the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce. When discussing workplace trends, Walker highlights the growing importance of apprenticeships, especially in tech. She also emphasizes that companies must now tell their emotional stories authentically: "It is not enough to be good. You also have to do no harm." This principle guided her during her run for state Senate—a challenging experience that taught her valuable lessons about community, representation, and maintaining self-worth. Walker leaves us with a powerful call to action for women leaders: "Take up space everywhere you go so that the little girl can see you taking up space and know that it's appropriate and normal." By normalizing female leadership through visibility and mentorship, we create pathways for the next generation to follow. Ready to make your impact? Start where you have the most influence, find your passion, and join with others working toward the same goals. As Walker reminds us, meaningful change doesn't require moving mountains all at once—sometimes it's just one rock at a time. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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You're not "just a mom" – How the Women's Wellness Summit celebrates our complex identities 41:49

12 days ago41:49

41:49

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Carolyn Williams never expected that becoming a mother in her mid-thirties would completely transform her professional trajectory. "I got absolutely obliterated in the postpartum experience," she shares with disarming honesty. That personal struggle revealed a deeper truth—countless women exist in chronic survival mode, a reality that demanded action. From this revelation, the Women's Wellness Summit was born. As founder and CEO, Carolyn created a revolutionary approach to female wellbeing that unites eight dimensions of wellness under one roof: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, financial, occupational, and environmental. The summit provides a centralized location where women can explore these dimensions through immersive experiences rather than piecing together support from disconnected resources. Perhaps the most powerful insight from our conversation addresses the reductionist view of female identity. "So often people distill human complexity to a singular identity," Carolyn observes. We discuss why the phrase "just a mom" fundamentally misunderstands women's multifaceted nature and contributions. The summit creates space for women to celebrate their complete selves rather than fragmenting their identities. We explore practical wisdom for everyday life, from the strength found in saying "no" (which actually means saying "yes" to something more important) to the necessity of corporate policies like mandatory parental leave. Carolyn's approach to wellness embraces women's changing needs across different life seasons, recognizing that social connections, physical needs, and mental health support must evolve as women move through various stages. Ready to show up for yourself and connect with a community that honors your complexity? Join us at the Women's Wellness Summit on April 26th at UVU in Orem, Utah. With featured speaker Ralphie Jacobs on scientific parenting, 25 diverse breakout sessions, and a day dedicated to your wellbeing, this event promises to be transformative. Because when women thrive, everyone benefits—families grow stronger, workplaces become more dynamic, and communities flourish. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Jeannette Bennett: Embrace the Plot Twists 53:06

25 days ago53:06

53:06

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Jeanette Bennett is a force for growth, innovation, and positivity. Her love of Utah Valley and the people she has served over the years is unmistakable. We are proud to kick off Women's History Month with an interview with her. From selling her first home to finance the first issue of her magazine to dealing with cancer and becoming the face of Colliers, Utah, Jeanette is a powerhouse in our state. In this episode, Jeanette recounts her journey, characterized by resilience and adaptability, shaping her career and the lives of those around her. Learn how personal narratives, when shared authentically, can inspire others while fostering an environment of acceptance and growth. As we discuss the critical importance of collaboration and recognition within workplaces, Jeanette emphasizes actionable strategies for building inclusive cultures where women and men feel valued. Listen in and share your thoughts on how leadership dynamics can evolve with your engagement! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! https://jeanettebennett.com/ https://utahvalleymag.com/ https://businessqmag.com/ www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Leadership Success and Future Visions for Women in Utah 4:52

6 weeks ago4:52

4:52

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Unlock the secrets to empowering women in leadership as we celebrate a decade of transformative work with the Elevate Women's Leadership Institute. You'll hear compelling success stories from companies like CHG and Larry H. Miller, who have implemented groundbreaking practices to support and retain women in the workplace. Our alumni have made remarkable strides, and we highlight how they've harnessed leadership opportunities across various industries. Relive a standout moment from our career development series at Pluralsight, where candid conversations about career aspirations showcased the power of preparation and ambition. As we step into a new year, we're eager to explore the dynamic interplay between gender, leadership, and the workplace. Dive into strategies for building trust within teams and uncover the often-overlooked skills that can elevate women's voices. Stay tuned for insights from Jeanette Bennett, the new Utah face of Colliers, as well as discussions on the state's startup initiatives and Olympic projects. We're also on the lookout for a successor to continue Pat Jones's legacy as she prepares for retirement. Join us as we share impactful stories and invite you to take part in our dedicated programs designed to empower women at all stages of their careers. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Pat, Nicole and Patti: A Collective Vision for Inclusive Leadership 49:08

9 weeks ago49:08

49:08

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. What if fostering inclusivity and promoting women in leadership could improve the workplace? Join us as we celebrate a decade of impactful conversations with Pat Jones, the founder of the Women's Leadership Institute podcast, and Nicole Carpenter, the director. This special episode is rich with personal anecdotes, as Pat shares heartwarming traditions of generosity with her grandchildren, and Nicole discusses adapting family rituals to keep her teenagers engaged. We reflect on the transformative Elevate Her Challenge, a beacon of progress for over 350 companies in Utah, with Zions Bank leading the charge in supporting gender diversity and fostering inclusive workspaces. From boardroom dynamics to personal growth stories, we wrap up a decade of progress with a collective vision for inclusive leadership, emphasizing the need for allies and advocates to champion female leaders in all arenas. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Sophia Di Caro: The Art of Public Finance and Leadership 51:31

12 weeks ago51:31

51:31

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Discover the art of fiscal responsibility with Sopia DiCaro, the savvy Executive Director of the Governor's Office of Planning and Budget. Join us as she unravels her pivotal role in managing Utah's substantial $30 billion budget. Sopia illuminates how strategic financial planning is not just about numbers but about uplifting communities, particularly focusing on seniors by proposing to eliminate the Social Security tax and investing in programs like Meals on Wheels. Her insights into the delicate balance of revenue and expenditure offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of state budgeting. Ever wondered how state funding decisions are made? We peel back the curtain on the legislative budgeting process, revealing the intricacies of securing funds in a competitive environment. Learn about the importance of timing, relationship-building with committee members, and the legislative timeline's swift pace. Sopia encourages civic engagement, urging listeners to participate in sessions and virtual hearings, empowering them to advocate effectively for their causes. Beyond the numbers, our conversation takes a heartfelt dive into the impact of public service and the power of collective civic action. Sopia shares her journey from finance to public administration, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and perseverance in leadership roles. She passionately discusses women’s leadership, the value of mentorship, and the significance of embracing one's unique journey to achieve holistic fulfillment. This episode is a testament to the profound impact of intention and community, inspiring listeners to contribute to positive change in both public and private spheres. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Tonia Dalton & Brooke Eastham: Flexible Work Culture Transforming Career Paths 52:36

15 weeks ago52:36

52:36

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Could balancing a dynamic career with personal passions be the key to success? Join us as Tonia Dalton, partner at Induo Marketing, and Brooke Eastham, senior manager at CHG Healthcare, share their personal stories and how these experiences have shaped their professional lives. Tonia offers a fascinating glimpse into her past, including an unexpected stint as a psychic phone line worker, while Brooke discusses her dedication to supporting women in the workforce and her love for nail art. Together, these two accomplished women illustrate the power of diversity in the workplace and the benefits of crafting flexible environments for working mothers. Workplace flexibility isn't just a buzzword—it's a fundamental change in how we view work, life, and career growth. This episode unpacks initiatives like the Women's Leadership Institute and the Elevate Her Challenge, which are pivotal in advancing women’s careers. Through Tonia and Brooke's experiences in executive roles, we uncover the importance of mentoring and the lifelong impact of having working parents as role models. With a focus on the advantages of remote work, we explore strategies to attract top talent from anywhere, turning distance into an asset rather than a hurdle. Building strong professional relationships is more than just networking; it's about nurturing genuine connections that pave the way for collective success. Tonia and Brooke share stories and strategies for maintaining these connections, even amidst busy schedules. We discuss the subtle art of indirect leadership and the profound effect of acknowledging and supporting others in their journeys. Get inspired by tales of empowerment, where small acts of recognition lead to inclusivity and community strength. Prepare for an episode full of wisdom, lessons, and inspiring stories that demonstrate the true power of women lifting each other up. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Unlocking Workplace Happiness: Insights from Michelle McCullough 40:59

16 weeks ago40:59

40:59

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Unlock the secret to happiness in the workplace with our guest, Michelle McCullough, a leading expert in productivity and emotional intelligence. Join us as Michelle shares her fascinating journey from a time management enthusiast to an esteemed researcher on high-performing teams. Discover how her insights from "The Make It Happen Blueprint" and the United States Happiness Report reveal the powerful link between happiness and productivity, and why emotional intelligence is key to overcoming work challenges. Explore how leaders can strike the perfect balance between authenticity and adaptability to foster a culture of creativity and resilience. By focusing on the emotional wellbeing of their teams, leaders can significantly enhance productivity and innovation. Michelle discusses the mirroring effect of leadership emotions and offers practical advice on creating an inclusive, adaptable, and happy workplace. Unpack the research-backed benefits of nurturing emotional intelligence and see how this can transform team morale and success. Embrace the notion of happiness as an intentional choice and integrate it into your daily life and work. We'll guide you through actionable steps organizations can take to assess and enhance employee happiness, and highlight the transformative power of joy on productivity and creativity. As the holiday season approaches, we emphasize the importance of personal joy and how leaders can support their teams in this journey. Elevate your leadership skills with insights into the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of leadership, drawn from Michelle's extensive research and expertise. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Sara Jones: Defying Gravity and Shaping Business Strategy 54:16

16 weeks ago54:16

54:16

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Join us for an enlightening conversation with the dynamic Sara Jones, a chemical engineer turned patent lawyer, who now leads the charge in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) consulting with her firm, Inclusion Pro. Sara's transformative journey, inspired in part by the musical Wicked, has led her to become a pivotal force in the DEI space. We explore her fascinating career transition and the influential role she played in founding the Women's Tech Council, where her knack for strategic partnerships and community building first came to light. This episode unpacks the intricacies of embedding DEI into the core of business strategy, rather than sidelining it as an optional program. Sara shares her insights into the common pitfalls companies face when attempting to integrate DEI and the mindset shift necessary for true transformation. We delve into the legislative impacts on DEI initiatives and the emotional toll they take on the community. Sara's experiences underscore the importance of understanding company culture and how informed engagement and collaboration can navigate the complexities of these challenges. We also tackle the importance of cultivating cultural and problem-solving skills within organizations, highlighting how a synergistic team environment can drive creativity and innovation. By leveraging DEI principles across all facets of a business, Sara shows how companies can break free from traditional narratives and unlock new opportunities. Through engaging storytelling and a focus on the value of flexibility, this episode is a guide to fostering inclusive environments and empowering leaders to embrace diversity as a transformative business strategy. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Morgan Lyon Cotti and Allie Pierce: Engagement, Mentoring & Women in Politics 44:49

19 weeks ago44:49

44:49

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Morgan Lyon Cotti and Allie Pierce join us for a powerful conversation about women's political empowerment through Utah Women Run. Inspired by her mother's legislative career, Morgan shares her lifelong commitment to increasing female representation in politics. Allie, who shifted her focus from vocal performance to gender studies, talks about how her upbringing in a politically engaged family fueled her passion for advocacy. Together, they reveal the transformative journey of Utah Women Run and its mission to break down barriers for women aspiring to political leadership. We dive into the pivotal role of mentorship and community in fostering political engagement among women. Listen as we recount the success of the Day on the Hill event, where participants gained insights into the legislative process and formed valuable connections with lawmakers and lobbyists. This episode underscores the importance of equipping women with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in political environments. Our hosts introduce a new mentorship program designed to inspire and guide women towards impactful political careers, blending practical advice with motivational support. As we explore the historical and present dynamics of women in political office, the conversation highlights the importance of bipartisan support and collaboration. Celebrate the achievements of trailblazing women recognized by the Martha Hughes Cannon Award and discover the significance of initiatives like the Dignity Index in promoting civility in political discourse. We call on our listeners to support and uplift the women around them, emphasizing the need for resources and encouragement to enhance female representation across the political spectrum. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Mallory Santa Cruz: Inspiring the Future of Leadership through Mentorship & Collaboration 37:09

21 weeks ago37:09

37:09

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Mallory Santa Cruz, Vice President of Success in Education, helped launch the transformative Women Who Succeed program, which creates mentorship pathways for young women, reshapes leadership landscapes, and breaks barriers. Through real-life examples and expert insights, we explore how intentional collaboration fosters growth and empowers women to realize their fullest potential. We also tackle the nuanced dynamics of mentorship, from bridging the gap between aspiring mentees and their mentors to understanding the keys to a fruitful mentor-mentee relationship. Delve into the importance of communication, trust, and intentionality as we discuss the Rising Leader series and how such programs enable women to shatter stagnation and actively pursue their career ambitions. We explore the progress in creating leadership opportunities and cultural awareness while also recognizing areas for improvement, such as increasing female representation in politics and implementing family-friendly policies. Listen to the compelling stories from the "Elevate Her" luncheon celebrating the Political Development Series, and understand the vital role of mentorship and coalition-building in fortifying women's roles in political and professional arenas. Join us as we celebrate these inspirational narratives that underscore the transformative power of mentorship and collaboration. Interested in signing up to be a mentor with Women Who Succeed? Interested in our Southern Utah Event ? Interested in learning more about the Rising Leaders Series ? www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Engaging Effectively in Utah's Evolving Political Scene 46:02

22 weeks ago46:02

46:02

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Join us as we welcome Liz Converse, CEO of Utah Tech Leads, who shares her inspiring journey through two decades in state and local politics. Liz offers a unique perspective on the challenges and victories women encounter in this arena, highlighting the power of perseverance and the importance of using one's voice. Discover her personal experiences and insights into the vital role the tech community must play in political engagement, particularly in Utah, where a more moderate demographic is emerging due to a young population and global influences. Utah's political landscape is transforming, and navigating this change while holding onto traditional values is no small feat. Liz and I dive into this dynamic shift, discussing how to embrace growth and avoid divisiveness. We also explore the concept of being "keepers of the flame," stressing the importance of political transparency and engagement. The conversation reveals barriers to accessing timely information, especially for women, and draws an engaging parallel between political participation and the influence sports fans have on game outcomes. Building meaningful relationships with policymakers is key to effective advocacy. Liz shares her experiences and advice on engaging with legislators, focusing on the power of respectful dialogue and human connection. We highlight the nuances of the legislative process and the benefits of fostering connections outside of intense sessions. This episode also covers the influence of local politics and business engagement, emphasizing how proactive participation and chambers of commerce can support small businesses and foster a thriving community. The importance of empowering women's voices in both politics and tech is underscored, with Liz's journey serving as an inspiring example of resilience and advocacy. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Becky Marquette & Kate Noonan: Empowering the Next Generation of Female Engineers 42:23

24 weeks ago42:23

42:23

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Becky Marquette, a chemical engineer dedicated to inspiring future generations, and Kate Noonan, whose career has seamlessly transitioned from materials engineering to academia, join us today. Our conversation dives into the challenges and triumphs women face in engineering, traditionally dominated by men. Through heartfelt stories and reflections, Becky and Kate discuss the mentors who inspired them, such as transformative teachers and trailblazers like Dorothy Vaughn. They highlight the critical role of representation and mentorship, demonstrating how seeing oneself in successful figures can empower women to overcome barriers. We also consider how fun and engaging STEM activities can ignite a spark in young girls, ultimately broadening their career horizons. With honesty and warmth, Becky and Kate explore the importance of nonlinear career paths and supportive networks in achieving success. They offer personal anecdotes, like Kate's transition to a flexible role during motherhood, and discuss how recognizing talent and providing accommodations can lead to exceptional results. This episode celebrates the synergy between these two remarkable women, showcasing how mutual support and teamwork have fostered both personal and professional growth. It leaves listeners with a sense of inspiration and a reminder of the impact of encouraging others. https://stemheads.org/ www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Danni Wright : Community Growth and Financial Inclusivity 34:41

26 weeks ago34:41

34:41

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message. Join us on Elevate as we sit down with Danni Wright from JPMorgan Private Bank. Danni will discuss her dual role: leading operations in Utah and Idaho while championing the Utah JPMorgan Chase Market Leadership Team's efforts to uplift the community. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of the bank's initiative, Women on the Move—a program dedicated to mentoring and empowering women within the company and beyond. We explore the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in shaping successful careers in finance. Drawing from personal Wall Street experiences, we highlight how having the right mentors and sponsors can significantly influence your career path. Danni explains why early financial literacy and involvement are crucial, especially as more women gain wealth through various avenues like inheritance, education, and entrepreneurship. The episode also shines a spotlight on the influential leadership of Mary Erdos, CEO of Asset and Wealth Management at JPMorgan Chase, and other powerful women at the bank. We examine the economic and moral imperatives of promoting women in business, backed by compelling studies like McKinsey's. Tune in for an episode packed with insights, inspiration, and actionable advice for aspiring women leaders. www.wliut.com @utwomenleaders…

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Jenny Teemsma : Navigating Maternal Leave, Generational Differences and Career Success 31:14

28 weeks ago31:14