Powered by Authenticity

Powered by Observation with Dr. Don Barden

There are episodes that feel meaningful… and then there areepisodes that feel truly inspiring. My time with Dr. Don Bardenwas one of those. Don brings warmth, humility, joy, and profound wisdom into every conversation. Together, we talked about gratitude over fear, presence over pressure, and what it truly means to lead with heart in both life andbusiness.We explored his work through The Perfect Plan and spenttime with his newest book, Here Come the Girls — a powerful,research-backed, deeply honoring celebration of women in leadership. In this groundbreaking work, Don reveals a transformative vision for the future: a world where women step fully into global leadership, reshaping economies,organizations, and cultures for the better. Drawing from years of doctoral research and real-world experience, Don shows how women naturally create more engaged, compassionate, and high-performing environments through empathy, humanconnection, and empowerment.But this book isn’t just a tribute — it’s a call to action. Donchallenges outdated leadership models and reminds businesses that the future belongs to organizations rooted in relevance, relationships, empathy, and humanity. His belief in the brilliance and rising strength of women is deeplypassionate, incredibly hopeful, and grounded in data-driven truth.And because Don leads with generosity and heart, he is offering free digital copies of his books — including Here Come the Girls — to listeners who reach out and share that they heard about him on Powered by Authenticity. That kindness alone speaks volumes about who he is.This episode is full of heart. Full of belief in people. Full ofhope for the future. If you need encouragement, inspiration, and something beautiful for your spirit — this conversation will meet you there. 💛Thank you so much Don for an inspiring and empowering episode of the show!Links to Don:Don Barden, Ph.D. | LinkedInDon Barden |Here Come the Girls: A Celebration of Why Women Will Take Over Global Leadership In 2028: Barden Ph.D., Donald W.: 9798306908007: Amazon.com: BooksAmazon.com: The Perfect Plan: A Study that Reveals the Secret Behind the World's Elite Leaders, Sales and Marketing Professionals: 0000692657797: Barden, Don: BooksAbout Dr. Don Barden:Dr. Don Barden is a globally recognized expert in leadership and decision-making, with over 30 years of transformative leadership in the financial industry. Named one of North America’s Top 30 Most Transformational Leaders by John Maxwell and 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year by the AtlantaBusiness Chronicle, Don’s innovative approaches have reshaped organizations across the U.S. and internationally.He holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and BehavioralEconomics, an MBA in Global Technology Management and International Business, and a BBA in Economics and Finance, with additional cybersecurity certification from Harvard. His “unfair advantage” leadership research debunks outdatedleadership myths and helps organizations unlock creative potential, transform culture, and achieve record-setting performance — all delivered with humor, humanity, and intellectual rigor.Dr. Barden also serves through significant philanthropic work,supporting mental health, youth leadership, inclusion initiatives, and providing scholarships and care access for those in need. His groundbreaking research, including Here Come the Girls and the Shift Happens series, highlights the extraordinary impact of women in leadership and thefuture of human-centered organizations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fostering the Talent in Our Backyard with TechBuffalo’s Jeffrey Botteron

In this episode I was joined by Jeffrey Botteron, President and CEO of TechBuffalo. Within, we speak about the mission of TechBuffalo - building a sustainable, inclusive, and accessible tech ecosystem – creating the talent density needed for companies to thrive in Western New York.  We may have also snuck in some talk on our favorite running spots and our beloved Buffalo Bills.During our time together, Jeffrey and I discussed the programs that TechBuffalo has such as PowerUp Tech - bringing internships to some of the brightest students at leading WNY organizations. So much so, students stay in the WNY community ...therefore, allowing organizations to grow.We also discussed the importance of partnership in our area including the WIT Network, 43 North, and M & T Bank, amongst others. I have been very fortunate to attend the Women in Tech conference hosted by TechBuffalo and have seen first-hand the positive impacts of networking in our community.Thank you, Jeffrey, for such a wonderful conversation about WNY's tech landscape!!Go Bills!About Jeffrey:President & Chief Executive OfficerJeffrey is a proven builder of talent development programs that promote equitable access to career opportunities. He became TechBuffalo’s leader after working for decades in Indiana, one of the most robust tech ecosystems in the United States. He has a track record of success in executingbold projects that connect workforce needs to educational programming.Links to Jeffrey and TechBuffalo Information:Jeffrey Botteron | LinkedInTechBuffalo - Building Community. Creating Connections. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Not So Silent Night with Nick Revelas of the Revelas Family Foundation

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily is joined by Nick Revelas, President of the Revelas Family Foundation, to share the story behind the foundation, its mission, and the community-driven work focused on supporting teen mental health across Western New York.Nick reflects on the personal loss that led to the creation of the Revelas Family Foundation and how that experience shaped its purpose: to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and increase access to mental health resources for young people. The foundation’s work is rooted in the belief that open conversation and community connection can save lives.The conversation highlights the upcoming Not So Silent Night event — a signature fundraiser that brings the community together in a meaningful and uniquely Buffalo way. This year’s event includes an ambitious and fun attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest chicken wing eating contest, using food and connection as a way to draw people into an important conversation around mental health.Emily and Nick also discuss the impact of Horizon's Teen Mental Health Program, a critical mental health resource supported by the foundation. Horizons has already helped over 40,000 students across 40 school systems, yet the demand continues to grow, with a waiting list that underscores just how urgent the need for support remains.Every contribution helps expand access to care, fund vital programming, and continue breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues — one conversation, one student, and one community at a time.This episode is a powerful reminder that when communities come together with purpose, compassion, and authenticity, meaningful change is possible.Thank you, Nick, for a wonderful conversation. We can't wait to see the incredible event this Saturday, December 20th, and the incredible impact the funds raised will make to our community.Links to the Revelas Family Foundation:A Not So Silent Night | Revelas FoundationHorizon Health Services | Mental Health & Addiction Services in WNYAbout the Not So Silent Night Event:The Event: At this year's annual holiday event, A Not So Silent Night, we will be attempting to beat the Guinness World Record for The World's Largest Chicken Wing Eating Contest. The record is for the most people actively eating chicken wings at once. We need to beat 397 participants (Amazon Web Services currently holds the record).  We believe this record rightfully belongs in Buffalo, New York. At the event there will be food from local partners: Bar Bill, Wingnutz Buffalo, Picasso's Imperial Pizza, & more. Plus, other on site vendors like 26 Shirts, Lucky Wing, Buffalo Freddy Party Rental, TSE Buffalo, and Trainwreck Sports. We alsohave corporate sponsors involved like Univera, Highmark, Lawley Insurance, and so many more.  Where: The Buffalo Convention Center When: Saturday, December 20th from 6:30-9:30pm Why: The holidays are a difficult time of the year where many struggle with their mental health. Our mission is to create fun fundraising events that bring people together to talk and break the stigma around mental health. We have raised money for Horizon Health Services' Teen Mental Health Program over the years. They have been able to go into 35+ schools around WNY and reach over 38,000 students, teachers, and faculty through this programRegistration Details: World record participant registration is now closed but you can still sign up to volunteer and be a spectator at revelasfamilyfoundation.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unpacking the Why’s with Julie Whitten

In this episode, we are joined by Julie Whitten, Founderand CEO of Julie Whitten Consulting.Julie shares the story behind launching her own consulting practice after a long career in change management, and how stepping into entrepreneurship opened a new chapter she didn’t originally plan for but quickly embraced.We also talk about her Big Girls Panties Diaries series on LinkedIn — a candid, relatable look at finding your voice, navigating career pivots, and owning the hard moments with humor and honesty. Julie talks about how writing became a way to support others going through similar transitions, and how those articles unexpectedly helped shape her businessidentity. P.S. – who else LOVES the name of this series!Throughout our conversation, Julie reflects on the themesthat guide her work today: authentic storytelling, helping organizations navigate change, and giving people tools to feel seen, steady, and supported during uncertainty. She also shares the wisdom, vulnerability, and clarity that have carried her through her own pivot into consultancy.It’s a grounded, heartfelt conversation with a womanbuilding something new — and doing it with courage, candor, and compassion.Thank you, Julie, for spending time with us. I loved talkingabout all things change management, entrepreneurship and Thanksgiving side dishes.Links to find more about Julie:JulieAnn Whitten | LinkedInJulieWhitten Consulting | Empower Change TodayJulie’s Bio:Julie Ann Whitten is a Calmfident transformation andcommunications executive, keynote speaker, and founder of Julie Whitten Consulting, where she helps organizations navigating complex change. She specializes in leadership alignment, communication strategy, employeereadiness, and building strong People Stacks — the human capabilities that actually make change stick. With more than 25 years of experience leading change at Fortune 500 company organizations Julie brings a rare blend of strategic clarity, emotional intelligence, and storytelling to every engagement. She is known for helping leaders translate vision into language people actually understand andmove through — reducing resistance, increasing trust, and creating sustainable transformation. Julie is also the creator of Big Girl Panties Diaries, a 100+ entry LinkedIn series that blends humor, vulnerability, and leadership lessons drawn from real life — careerplot twists, parenting a medically complex child, yoga mat meltdowns, and everything in between. Her writing has resonated with thousands of readers navigating the messy middle of their own personal and professional changes.Her philosophy is simple: change doesn’t have to bechaotic. With the right leadership, communication, and humanity, it can be calm, clear, and profoundly transformative. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Differentiating the Important from the Urgent with Dr. Susan McGinty

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, we speak with Dr. Susan McGinty, founder of The Estembly and an expert in inclusive leadership within STEM and security. Susan shares her journey from scientist to strategist and explains why inclusion must be intentionally built into systems, decision-making, and culture. She discusses the measurable benefits of inclusive leadership, the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated fields, and the importance of engaging men as partners in driving change. This conversation offers practical insight into creating workplaces where people can lead authentically and thrive.Thank you, Susan, for this thoughtful, engaging conversation.I enjoyed our time together and hope you will come back to the podcast to further discuss the positive impact of inclusive teams.Links to content discussed in this episode:Susan McGinty, Dr| LinkedInThe Asstembly |Inclusive LeadershipDr Susan McGinty CEO and Founder, The Asstembly |International Women in Cyber Day Canberra Awards, Change Maker of the Year 2025 | Women Leading Tech Champion of Change 2025 | Leader of the Year 2023 Dr Susan McGinty is the CEO and Founder of The Asstembly. An award-winning scientist and global Security & STEM leadership development expert, speaker and author, she is inspired to transform the profile of leadership in Security & STEM to foster leadership excellence, diversityand inclusion; uplift women into leadership roles; and promote innovation sustainability. Susan helps organisations across STEM, intelligence,national security and cyber security to develop diverse leadership pipelines as a foundation for business growth and innovation. She works with leaders globally to strengthen leadership skills and develop resilient, high-performingteams. Her thought leadership and tailored leadership programs have global impact. Susan is a recognised global expert in female leadershipdevelopment. She was awarded the 2025 International Women in Cyber Day Canberra Awards Change Maker of the Year Award, 2025 Women Leading Tech Champion ofChange Award (Highly Commended), 2024 Australian Women in Security Awards Best Industry Initiative That Supports Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and 2023 Women in STEM Leadership Leader of the Year Award for her work supporting the leadership development of women in STEM, defence and cybersecurity globally. She was a finalist in the 2024 and 2025 Australian Defence and National Security Workforce Awards and Australian Defence Industry Awards, the 2025 and2023 Recalibrate Gender Equity Awards, the 2023 Australian Women in Security Awards and the 2023 Women’s Agenda Awards Emerging Leader in Tech. Susan has a PhD in Medicinal & Organic Chemistry, aMaster of Leadership, and more than 25 years’ experience in STEM, Defence, Intelligence and National Security, and STEM/Security leadership development. In 2024, Susan authored two white papers describing strategic pathways that leverage female leadership development to expand workforce diversity and unlock innovation: Navigating Diversity in STEM and Advancing the Cyber SecuritySector. In 2023, Susan co-authored the #1 international best-selling book Women Transforming the Landscape of Science and Tech. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Balance of Confidence with Dr. Vicki Johnson

This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr.Vicki Johnson, the founder of ProFellow — a platform she builtbecause she knew firsthand how life-changing fellowships, fully funded graduate programs, and competitive awards can be… and how hidden they often are. What started as a small resource she and her husband created while she was a Ph.D.student has now grown into a global hub that hundreds of thousands of people rely on.Vicki’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and a whole lotof heart. She talks about the moment she realized that opportunities like her Fulbright Fellowship and fully funded Ph.D. program shouldn’t be secrets—you shouldn’t need to “know someone” or stumble on a professor’s offhand comment to change your life. So she built the tool she wished she had.One of my favorite parts of our conversation is when Vickibreaks down her MATCH ME formula — a seven-step framework she developed to help people tell their story clearly and confidently, whether they’re applying for a fellowship, putting together a pitch, or stepping into theirnext big chapter. It’s simple, smart, and highly actionable, and you’ll hear her share how it has helped countless people transform the way they talk about themselves and their work.We also go deep on the realities of entrepreneurship — thelong seasons, the learning curves, and the quiet moments when passion has to carry you through uncertainty. It’s honest, human, and full of wisdom for anyone building something that matters.If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out, how to tell yourstory in a way that lands, or how to take your next step with a little more confidence, this conversation will meet you right where you are.Thank you, Vicki, for such a wonderful conversation.Please find links to content discussed below:LinkedIn:VickiJohnson, PhD | LinkedInProFellow:Fellowships, Awards,Fully Funded PhD and Master’s ProgramsWebsite and Book Pre-Order:Dr. Vicki JohnsonDr. Vicki Johnson’s Bio:Dr. Vicki Johnson is a speaker, author, and four-timefellowship winner who helps ambitious professionals win elite opportunities.She is the founder of ProFellow, the leading U.S. resource for competitive fellowships, graduate programs, and leadership accelerators. A social entrepreneur and sought-after coach, Dr. Johnson teaches persuasive communication strategies that have helped her community secure more than $500million in merit-based funding awards. Pitch Your Potential is her first book and serves as an in-depth guide to her breakthrough MATCH ME Formula®, the 7 elements of a winning application. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN!

There are moments on this podcast when the conversationshifts from storytelling to something deeper — something tender, urgent, and universally human. This episode is one of those moments.In this episode, Donna Ritchie and Jerry Sheldon, leaderswith Sleep in Heavenly Peace, share how a bed becomes much more than furniture. It becomes warmth. Stability. Safety. A sense of belonging. A soft place for a child to land after days that are sometimes heavier than any childshould carry.Across the United States, more than 150,000 childrenhave no bed of their own — a number that feels impossible until you hear Donna and Jerry speak about what they see every week here in Western New York. In our own backyard, hundreds of children lay their heads down on floors,couches, or borrowed spaces night after night. Rochester’s waitlist is around 300 kids. Buffalo’s approaches 700.This is not a far-away issue.It’s happening in our neighborhoods, our schools, our communities.And yet — the heart of this episode is not about what’smissing.It’s about the love that shows up to fill the gap.Donna and Jerry talk about the small details — the handmadeframes, the safe stain used to protect the wood, the bedding volunteers lovingly choose — because when you’re giving a child a bed, everything matters. They share moments from delivery days that stay with them: the look on a child’s face when they see their new bed, the way a parent’s shouldersfinally drop in relief, the joy of matching a little girl’s wish for unicorn bedding.And woven through every story is the same message:Love is the driving force behind this work.Love for children who deserve rest.Love for families who need support.Love for a community that rallies when the need is great.This episode is a reminder that sometimes the mostmeaningful change comes from the most basic human needs — a safe place to sleep, and people who care enough to make sure every child has it. Thank you Jerry and Donna for sharing the story of Sleep inHeavenly Peace’s mission across the US, and those incredible needs here in WNY.Links to where you will find additional information on Sleep in Heavenly Peace:Home - Sleep in HeavenlyPeacehttps://bit.ly/SHPNY-ROCSleep inHeavenly Peace - Buffalo ChapterSleep inHeavenly Peace - Rochester Chapter Donna Ritchie Bio:My husband and I learned about Sleep in Heavenly Peace alittle over 6 years ago after a conversation with one of our daughters. We were talking about kids in need, and she said she had friends in Michigan who build beds for kids. After looking into it, we were both intrigued. We were newlyempty nesters, so we thought we had some extra time on our hands. The next thing we knew, we were on our way to chapter president training.Our first delivery was Christmas Eve 2019. We delivered 2beds to twin 6-year-olds. Since then, we’ve had a nice family tradition of delivering beds with our 2 daughters every Christmas Eve. In total, our chapter has delivered over 1300 beds to local kids. Our chapter delivers approximately 300 beds per year. Both my husband and I (and many of our volunteers) work fulltime jobs. My husband is an engineer and I’m an event planner.I’d like people to know that anyone can help by eitherparticipating in a build or donating.Jerry Sheldon Bio:Jerry and Mary Jo Sheldon, along with Rick and Betsy DiVitaformed the Buffalo chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace in 2019.  It was August of 2020 that SHP Buffalo delivered its first bed to a child in Buffalo.  Currently SHP Buffalo has delivered over 5100 beds.Jerry has been active in the WNY community aa volunteer,board members and active citizen working to improve the lives of fellow WNYers.  He is a retired engineer havingworked in a corporate environment, owned a small business, and led a non-profit.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giving Veterans a Voice with Cole Johnson of WNYHeroes

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I amjoined by Cole Johnson — Lead Caseworker for WNYHeroes, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, and Afghanistan War Veteran. We begin by honoring Cole for his service, but what becomes clear throughout our conversation is that his servicenever stopped. It simply shifted home to Western New York.Cole walks us through the extraordinary work WNYHeroes isdoing every single day for veterans, service members, and their families right here in our community. Beyond being a trusted ear and a steady shoulder, WNYHeroes provides both financial support and people-centered services that fill critical gaps for those who have sacrificed so much.We explore programs like:The Little Heroes Fund, which helps cover the costs of enrichment activities for the children of veterans and active-duty military — from sports and camps to music, arts, and after-school programs. These opportunities ensure every child has the chance to grow, learn, and belong.The Heroes’ Bridge Program, offering vital financial support in moments of crisis. Whether it’s rent, mortgage payments, utilities, or emergency needs, this grant gives veterans the stability they deserve when times get tough.And with the holiday season approaching, WNYHeroes ishard at work on their impactful Adopt-a-Hero Family program — ensuring veterans, service members, and their families experience a Christmas filled with warmth, and support when times are tough.While donations are always meaningful, volunteers are theheartbeat of this organization. Whether it’s lending Cole a hand in the office, assisting at community events, or offering support out in the field, every bit of time and effort truly matters. WNYHeroes welcomes anyone who is ready to step in, ready to help, and ready to support the veterans and families who have long supported us.I walked away from this conversation both humbled andinspired. I had no idea the depth and breadth of services WNYHeroes provides, nor how many lives they quietly transform across Western New York. I hope you’ll join me in supporting this extraordinary nonprofit that continuesto uplift those who have carried the weight of service on our behalf.THANK YOU, Cole — and every veteran connected toWNYHeroes — for your service, your leadership, and your ongoing commitment to our community.Links mentioned on this episode:WNY Heroes - WNY HeroesStaff& Board of Directors - WNY HeroesWNYHeroes Inc. |LinkedInInstagramFacebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Out of Bounds with Kendra Brim

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I had the joy of sitting down with someone who is making a lasting mark on Western New York through her leadership, heart, and dedication to helping others grow — Kendra Brim.Kendra is the Founder and CEO of K. Savannah Consulting, where she partners with organizations to strengthen culture, develop inclusive leaders, and build strategies that drive meaningful, lasting change. Her work blends strategy with empathy — helping people and organizations move from intention to action with purpose and authenticity.She’s also the creator of Out of Bounds, an initiative born from her experience as a student-athlete that helps athletes navigate life beyond sports. Through Out of Bounds, Kendra helps others translate skills like discipline, teamwork, and resilience into success off the court and beyond the game.Today, she serves as the Vice President of Programs and Organizational Advancement at Leadership Buffalo, where she’s shaping the next generation of civic-minded leaders and deepening the organization’s impact across Western New York. Her work continues her lifelong commitment to leadership rooted in connection, service, and community.Kendra is co-founder of Buffalo Black Restaurant Week, a celebration that highlights and uplifts Black-owned restaurants across the region. What began as a grassroots idea has grown into one of Buffalo’s most anticipated community events — bringing people together through food, culture, and conversation.She’s also the co-host of the Black Gems Dive In Podcast, where she discusses inclusive culture, leadership, and all things diversity, equity, and inclusion.Kendra Brim is a leader who listens deeply, acts with intention, and inspires everyone around her to do the same. Thank you, Kendra, for an inspiring conversation. Links to Kendra:LinkedIn – Kendra Brim, MBAListen to the Black Gems Dive In PodcastAbout Kendra:Kendra Brim is a dynamic speaker, strategist, and founder of Out of Bounds, a transformative platform helping student-athletes, professionals, and emerging leaders navigate identity shifts and redefine success beyond traditional boundaries. A proud graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Management, she brings both business acumen and lived experience to her work in leadership and transformation.A former Division I basketball player and record holder at Colgate University, Kendra’s journey from the court to the boardroom has fueled her mission to help others unlearn limiting beliefs and reclaim their narratives. Her path has also been global — she’s lived in Australia and coached basketball in Thailand, experiences that continue to shape her worldview and passion for cross-cultural connection.In her acclaimed TEDx Talk, “The Weight We Carry,” Kendra challenged audiences to examine how external validation can mask internal uncertainty. She shared her journey of losing herself in titles and performance — and what it took to rediscover her authentic self. Her message deeply resonates with anyone standing at a crossroads of transition, especially high achievers questioning “what’s next” after success.Beyond her professional endeavors, Kendra is a dedicated community leader and advocate. She serves on the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County Board, Say Yes Buffalo Board of Directors, and has held board seats with the PGA of Western New York and the Buffalo Urban League. Nationally, she served as Vice President of the National Urban League Young Professionals, advancing leadership and civic engagement among emerging Black leaders across the country.Kendra is also the co-author of The Six-Figure Athlete and co-founder of Buffalo Black Restaurant Week, an initiative celebrating Black culinary excellence and economic empowerment. Whether she’s facilitating a leadership workshop, mentoring young professionals, or amplifying stories through her podcast, Kendra brings authenticity, warmth, and bold clarity to everything she does. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sponsor Highlight: SPoT Coffee

Powered by Authenticity was thrilled to be hosted by SPoT Coffee in beautiful downtown Buffalo, New York for our conversation with Kaely's Kindness Foundation.I had such a great time sitting down with Kevin Kuchta, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, to learn more about SPoT’s incredible story and community roots.As the original craft coffeehouse in Western New York, SPoT has been fueling connection and creativity for over 30 years. What began on the corner of Delaware and Chippawa has grown into a beloved local institution—still proudly roasting their beans onsite and serving guests in that very first café today.We absolutely love our location sponsors and were so grateful for the chance to partner with a business that embodies what Powered by Authenticity is all about: community, connection, and great conversation over an even better cup of coffee. Thank you, SPoT for hosting Powered by Authenticity and Kaely's Kindness Foundation!Links to SPoT and Kevin Kuchta:Home - SPoT CoffeeKevin Kuchta | LinkedInHome | kaelys-kindness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.