Powered by Authenticity

Accidental Entrepreneur

In this episode, I am joined by Abby McKiernan (and baby Cordelia) for a robust conversation on maneuvering the world of being a female and tech entrepreneur. This was such a fun episode, and the passion and joy Abby has for serving her community shine through the entire conversation.Within this episode we talk about the importance of having a strong group of supporters who server, not only, as your cheerleaders, but will challenge you when needed. We also talk about how the life lessons that youexperience in your early years lead to great leadership.The work that Abby is doing to support communities, not just locally, but across the country utilizing tech is changing lives. And, I am very fortunate to have had Abby’s time and conversation in this episode. Thework is truly making lives better.Thank you, Abby and Cordelia, for an amazing episode!!Find more information about Abby below:Abagail(Courtney) McKiernan | LinkedInHelpLink:HelpLinkBio:Abagail McKiernan is the proud mother of four, an emerging female entrepreneur, a budding public speaker, and the founder of two tech-based organizations focused on creating a better and brighter world. She founded Michigan-based nonprofit Spark in the Dark, which has connected over 100,000 needs with solutions through its online peer-to-peer resource-sharing network. Most recently, she launched her newest company, HelpLink, a rapidly growing platform that helps businesses support their employees by removing barriers to work, ultimately boosting productivity and retention.Driven by a deep desire to be the change she wishes to see in the world and to leave it a better place for her children, Abagail’s passion fuels her ongoing success and achievements in business. When she’s not connecting, building, or creating, you can find Abby reading, painting, hiking, exploring, or traveling to new places. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fail Fast, and Pivot

In this episode I am joined by Kelly Nagel, Board Advisor with the WIT Network. I've gotten to know Kelly over the past couple of years through the local Buffalo chapter of events with the WIT Network and she is just a wealth of information and support for women in STEM. In our conversation we talk about some of the work that Kelly is doing during her career pause. We also discuss ideas that she has on how to find the next, right step for her and others in the midst of a career pivot.One idea that I found interesting was the drafting of her own obituary. How this task put things into perspective...you are not your job ...but, you are a loving, kind friend, mother, person to the world. What a great way to remember what matters most!!Kelly, thank you for joining us on the podcast. This conversation is such a wealth of information, and I can't thank you enough for sharing your story with us!Kelly Nagel:Kelly Nagel | LinkedInKelly's Bio:Kelly has spent nearly 30 years in IT working her way up from sales representative of the world's largest distributor to Regional President of the global leader in professional audio technology. Kelly is currently an Advisory Board member of The WIT Network where she is dedicating her time to promote the advancement of women in technology. Kelly believes it is vitally important to connect, empower and inspire women to find career success. As amother, daughter and friend, she is passionate about mentorship and sponsorship of women climbing their career ladder. Mentorship played a huge part in gettingKelly to where she is today and drives her to dedicate her time in mentoring and sponsoring others.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Focus on the Mile to Get to the Marathon

Did you know that there is a lack of equity when it comes to sponsorship in sports for women! Within this episode we chat with Bryon Malang about the challenges women face in this space and the parallel between our challenges in the area of STEM and professional sports. While Bryon's professional career is supporting healthcare IT clients with his project management skills, he is also an avid runner. His wife is on track to participate in the 2028 Olympics, and we discuss the challenges facing those looking for sponsorship.The story about Allison Felix and her story of the struggle she went through with Nike sponsorship ...including the necessity to hide her pregnancy. It is sad that women have to go through this in sports, just as we do in STEM. Let's keep this discussion going and help to change the trajectory for women everywhere!!Thank you, Bryon, for helping to raise awareness and using your voice to change the trajectory for women!Bryon Malang:Bryon Malang, MBA | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coaching and Mentoring Along the Way

In this episode, I am joined by Jen Jones, CEO & Founder of Cordea Consulting. During our conversation we discuss the work that Jenn is doing in the Healthcare IT space, building her organization and the culture she is building at Cordea.One thing that stands out in the discussion is the importance of culture and building talent for her organization. We also discuss the importance of recognizing transferrable skills in the workplace. Thank you, Jen, for this wonderful conversation. I loved hearing about the work you are doing to recognize the valuable assets women (and, men) bring to the world of STEM.This was such a wonderful episode, and I cannot wait to bring forward further conversations with you!About Jen:Jen (Pfeifer) Jones | LinkedInJen Jones, owner and CEO of Cordea Consulting, started her healthcare IT consulting firm 15 years ago in Oklahoma City, and now provides consulting to hospitals, clinics and health care organizations around the globe. Her firm continues to grow year over year — she currently employs more than 150 people across the United States. Jones is a servant leader who cares deeply about her team and her clients, which is evident in the loyalty and reputation she and her team have built. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Importance of Reciprocation

In this episode I am joined by Elizabeth Nicholas where we talk about an enormous number of important topics including the importance of documenting your transferrable skills, creating a professional portfolio and the work she is doing with military families. This conversation left me feeling with so much inspiration on the work we can do to change people's lives through coaching, mentoring and, simply, helping others 'decide their own Monday's' ...Liz is such an uplifting person and the work she is doing makes such a positive impact on individual's lives. Thank you, Liz, for such a wonderful conversation.LinkedIn:Elizabeth Nicholas, CHRP / CHRL, CCDP, CHATP | LinkedInLiz's Bio:Elizabeth Nicholas, Career Specialist and host of Your Employment Detective, a podcast for Military and Veteran Spouses seeking to solve their career mysteries. The Virtual Employment and Education Specialist at the Trenton Military Family Resource Centre, she enjoys creating and offering award-winning employment and entrepreneurial training to Canadian Militaryand Veteran families worldwide.  Always thrilled to offer sessions, resources, and tools to help those in need reachfor and discover their true potential, with a background in marketing, she holds designations as a Certified Human Resource Professional, Certified Human Resource Leader,Certified PLAR Practitioner, Certified Career Development Practitioner, and a Certified Hope-Action Theory and Practice Advanced Practitioner. She actively volunteers and is a board member of CAPLA (Canadian Association for Prior Learning Assessment) where she enjoys hosting monthly Community of Learning sessions inviting everyone with an interest in PLAR/RPL to attend. Always game to bring her skills and talents to create fun, interactive, and valuable training opportunities forothers, she views every exchange as an investment for all involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Learning and Growing in the STEM World

I was so honored to be joined by Brittany, Karen, Cathy and Anu in this wonderful roundtable episode of the podcast.Within, we each share stories about our careers in STEM, the importance of networking, coaching and mentoring in the workforce and just a wonderful conversation.I know you will enjoy this wonderful conversation as much as I did. Thank you so much, Anu, Cathy, Karen and Brittany.Please find further information about each of these wonderful guests on our website at www.poweredbyauthenticity.com.LinkedIn:Brittany Overko, PMP | LinkedInKaren Bass, LSSBB | LinkedInCathy Derksen, Author, Speaker | LinkedInAnu Ramchandran Nair,MSc, PMP® | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Plant the Seed, Nurture the Blooms

In my most recent podcast I was joined by Dr. Rana Mustafa, Dr. Leigh Holcomb and Heimy Molina where we discuss topics such as transferrable skills, the importance of writing down the stories you are proud of and the importance of coaching for everyone!The ideas, tools and shear inspiration from this conversation still has me thinking how to best implement them for myself. Thank you, Dr. Rana, Dr. Leigh and Heimy, for such a wonderful, insightful discussion. Dr. Rana Mustafa:Rana Mustafa, ​Ph.D. | LinkedInDr. Rana Mustafa is a multilingual Scientist, Leadership Coach, Positive Intelligence® Coach and Entrepreneur with over 20 years of expertise in academia, innovation, and project management. Rana has helped thousands ofuniversity students and scientists develop the skills and networks they need to bring their research to market and make an impact beyond the academic world. In her role as the founder of Grow Strong Coaching and aresearch facilitator at the University of Saskatchewan, Dr. Mustafa assists researchers with grant writing, business development, and establishing industry partnerships to advance their research initiatives and foster innovation.Furthermore, her coaching extends to assisting scientists and sciencepreneurs in building their personal brand, enhancing their professional presence, and improving their self-leadership skills, thereby positioning themas the go-to experts in their respective fields.Dr. Mustafa's approach to coaching is based in empathy,Answer Intelligence™ and Positive Intelligence®, providing inclusive, individualized, and authentic coaching that helps people identify and overcome their limitations, develop resilience, and successfully navigate their chosenpath.However, Rana’s story extends beyond her professionalachievements. As a survivor of war and breast cancer, she brings a unique perspective to her work. she extends her support to professionals grappling with life’s challenges, helping them cultivate resilient mindsets, reinvent themselves, and turn adversity into opportunities.Whether it's through coaching, research or partnerships, Rana is always striving to make a meaningful impact and help shape a better future.To read about her journey and connect with her on socialmedia: https://linktr.ee/growstrongcoachingDr. Leigh Holcomb:Leigh Holcomb, PhD, ELI-MP | LinkedInDr. Leigh Holcomb is the CEO of Career Catalyst Edge, where she dedicates her expertise to helping lifescience professionals in pharma and biotech industries design career paths that truly align with their values, strengths, and aspirations.With over a decade of experience in neuroscience and the pharmaceutical sector, Dr. Holcomb brings a wealth of knowledge and insight. Her diverse background includes roles as a neuroscientist, Medical Science Liaison, a Pharma/Biotech recruiter, and a certified Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner through the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC).As a passionate advocate for women in STEM, Dr. Holcomb excels as a career transition and leadershipdevelopment coach. She is also a recognized speaker and trainer on the topic of neurodiversity in the workplace. Her personal journey as a neurodivergent neuroscientist is powerfully captured in her chapter, “Inside My ADHD Brain: Cycling from Toxic Overwhelm to Creative Synergy,” in the international bestseller, She is an Overcomer.Heimy MolinaHeimy Molina | LinkedInHeimy Lee Libu Molina is a graduate of Civil Engineering(Honours) at Western Sydney University with First Class Honours and the University Medal. She’s currently a Graduate Engineer, working on a tunnellingproject in Sydney. Outside of work, Heimy is a committee member of Young Engineers Australia, a co-author, speaker, and have acquired several accolades — with the current one being the 7News Young Achiever Awards People’s Choice Winner and a Finalist and Semi-Finalist for two other categories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Truth Whispers, Everything Else? Shouts

In this episode I am joined by Diane Wyzga, owner of Quarter Moon Story Arts. During our discussion Diane shared here amazing life of serving as a US Navy Nurse, to attorney, litigation consultant and now "helping women find the words they didn't know they had."We discuss the importance of knowing your values; even when looking for a new position as it helps with identifying culture and keeping true to your own beliefs.Diane is an amazing storyteller who has wonderful advice for all. I hope you find this conversation as amazing as I did.As Diane likes to say, 'each one lift one' and she truly lives this way!! I have found her positivity so contagious, and I hope you do as well.Thank you, Diane, for the wonderful conversation!BIO: Diane Wyzga helps women clarify their ideas and amplify their messages. How? By partnering to create their confident Origin Story & voice. From US Navy nurse to lawyer, speaker to litigation consultant, and seasoned backpacking adventurer to storyteller, it’s all about Fall Down 7 - Get Up 8. For 30 years, Diane has been helping professionals take their story from a message only theycould hear to the publishing world, the courtroom, hospitals, board meetings, and the airwaves. Stories that swayed juries. Built markets. Spread ideas. Changed things. Today Diane helps professional women become successful Origin Story creators in the spirit of who they are: finding the words they didn’t know they had to connect with, engage and enliven their audience to actionwhile transforming the lives of those they serve. When you summon the courage to say “Yes!” that’s the place where your story changes.CONTACT LINKS Quarter Moon Story Arts: Quarter Moon Story Arts – Let's Get to the Heart of Your Message!Services:https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/Arrange a complimentary coaching session https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/hire-me/Opt In to News Audio Letter for bonus gift, valuable tips & techniques to enhance your story work:https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/hire-me/subscribe/Stories From Women Who Walk podcast: https://www.stories-from-women-who-walk.simplecast.com/episodesStay current with Diane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-f-wyzga-QMSA  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Throw Away the Boxes

I am thrilled to share the newest episode of Powered by Authenticity with you. In this episode, I was joined by three amazing women to share our thoughts on topics including finding your passion, creating your hit list and the power of networking.Cathy Derkson, Claire Skillen and Victoria Vojnovich joined their voices on these topics and more for an informative, impassioned conversation that left me exhilarated to look outside of the boxes in all aspects of life!Thank you, Cathy, Claire and Victoria for a wonderful, inspiring conversation!!Links where you can find more on these amazing women:Cathy Derksen:Cathy Derksen, Author, Speaker | LinkedInInspired Tenacity - Life Coach, Success and Wealth, TransformationClaire Skillen:Claire Skillen | LinkedInVictoria Vojnovich Victoria Vojnovich | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Time to Reboot??

In this episode I am joined by Mairead O'Donovan, and Art Pugach hosts of the podcast, When in Doubt, Reboot. Art and Mairead are also a great team at Queue Associates where they support a host of clients with their Microsoft Technologies.One item that we spoke about was the internship program offered at Queue. I found it interesting, but also very refreshing that they bring in talent for this program and allow them a true coaching and mentoring opportunity and not tasks like 'get coffee for the CTO'. This is exactly the types of opportunities we need to make available to our youth. Thank you, Mairead and Art, for joining me in this conversation. I loved every moment of it and look forward to more episodes together!!Below are links for Art and Mairead ...and, their great Podcast, When in Doubt, Reboot: Art Pugach | LinkedInMairead O'Donovan | LinkedInWhen In Doubt, Reboot. on Apple PodcastsQueue Associates - Microsoft Solutions Partner - Dynamics 365 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.