This Veterans Day, we’re honoring those who’ve served—and continuing the conversation on what service looks like after the uniform comes off. Shannon is joined by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz, Founder and CEO of Vanguard Veteran, an organization dedicated to equipping civilians to become Veteran Champions. Kathy’s mission is clear: bridge the gap between military and civilian life and empower veterans to thrive in the workplace, community, and beyond. From leading teams in uniform to leading a movement of understanding, Kathy shares her insight on building “vanguard” communities—those at the front of meaningful change. You’ll hear leadership lessons born from service, the truth behind common misconceptions, and how we can all be part of reshaping what veteran employment looks like today. 🔥 Whether you’re a veteran, a leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of purpose—this episode will remind you that service never ends. It just evolves. 💖 Host Note from Shannon: As I wrapped this conversation with Kathy, one thing stuck with me—leadership, at its core, is about service. Whether that’s to our teams, our communities, or our country, the call to lead is also the call to lift others. Kathy reminded me that being “human-fueled” means seeing the person behind the title and the story behind the salute. This Veterans Day, I hope you’ll take a moment to do just that—to connect, to listen, and to thank those who serve not just with words, but with opportunity and understanding. Because together, we are the vanguard of change. Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/85h1sIh5uM8💬 Quotes from Kathy in this episode: “Do it afraid.” “Listen to that small, still voice inside of you that says, ‘This is important. I need to do this.’ Step into your voice.” “We need to go beyond thank you for our service and be purposeful, intentional, with substantive actions.” “Lead with your heart. Go outside your comfort zone. Be willing to say, ‘I don’t understand, but I’d like to learn more.’ ‘The great news is that veteran unemployment is consistently lower than non-veteran employment... but about one-third of veterans in your company are underemployed.” “I believe that when veterans thrive, America prospers.”  🔗 Episode Resources &amp; Links: 🌐 <a href='https://vanguardveteran.com/'>Vanguard Veteran Website</a> 💼 <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/lt-col-ret-kathy-lowrey-gallowitz-0618314/'>Connect with Kathy Gallowitz on LinkedIn</a> 💼 <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanguard-veteran-llc/about/'>Follow Vanguard Veteran on LinkedIn</a> 📘 <a href='https://bookshop.org/p/books/beyond-thank-you-for-your-service-the-veteran-champion-handbook-for-civilians/7ecfbaf5ffda5f59?ean=9780578677095&amp;next=t&amp;next=t'>Beyond “Thank You for Your Service” by Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz</a> 📈 <a href='https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets/latest-numbers#:~:text=Annual%20Employment%20Situation%20of%20Veterans%20%E2%80%93%202024&amp;text=Of%20those%20veterans%2C%208.44%20million,the%20full%20report%20for%202024.'>U.S. Department of Labor Veteran Employment Data</a>   EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'>Empowering Women in Industry Membership</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'>Empowering Women in Industry Magazine</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'>Empowering Women in Industry Website</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'>Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This Veterans Day, we’re honoring those who’ve served—and continuing the conversation on what service looks like after the uniform comes off. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Shannon is joined by &lt;b&gt;Lt. Col. (Ret.) Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz&lt;/b&gt;, Founder and CEO of &lt;b&gt;Vanguard Veteran&lt;/b&gt;, an organization dedicated to equipping civilians to become &lt;em&gt;Veteran Champions.&lt;/em&gt; Kathy’s mission is clear: bridge the gap between military and civilian life and empower veterans to thrive in the workplace, community, and beyond. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From leading teams in uniform to leading a movement of understanding, Kathy shares her insight on building “vanguard” communities—those at the front of meaningful change. You’ll hear leadership lessons born from service, the truth behind common misconceptions, and how we can all be part of reshaping what veteran employment looks like today. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔥 Whether you’re a veteran, a leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of purpose—this episode will remind you that service never ends. It just evolves. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;💖 Host Note from Shannon:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;As I wrapped this conversation with Kathy, one thing stuck with me—leadership, at its core, is about &lt;em&gt;service.&lt;/em&gt; Whether that’s to our teams, our communities, or our country, the call to lead is also the call to lift others. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Kathy reminded me that being “human-fueled” means seeing the person behind the title and the story behind the salute. This Veterans Day, I hope you’ll take a moment to do just that—to connect, to listen, and to thank those who serve not just with words, but with opportunity and understanding. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Because together, we &lt;em&gt;are&lt;/em&gt; the vanguard of change. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/85h1sIh5uM8&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;💬 Quotes from Kathy in this episode:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Do it afraid.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Listen to that small, still voice inside of you that says, ‘This is important. I need to do this.’ Step into your voice.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“We need to go beyond thank you for our service and be purposeful, intentional, with substantive actions.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Lead with your heart. Go outside your comfort zone. Be willing to say, ‘I don’t understand, but I’d like to learn more.’ &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;‘The great news is that veteran unemployment is consistently lower than non-veteran employment... but about one-third of veterans in your company are underemployed.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“I believe that when veterans thrive, America prospers.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;🔗 Episode Resources &amp;amp; Links:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🌐 &lt;a href='https://vanguardveteran.com/'&gt;Vanguard Veteran Website&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; 💼 &lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/lt-col-ret-kathy-lowrey-gallowitz-0618314/'&gt;Connect with Kathy Gallowitz on LinkedIn&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; 💼 &lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanguard-veteran-llc/about/'&gt;Follow Vanguard Veteran on LinkedIn&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; 📘 &lt;a href='https://bookshop.org/p/books/beyond-thank-you-for-your-service-the-veteran-champion-handbook-for-civilians/7ecfbaf5ffda5f59?ean=9780578677095&amp;amp;next=t&amp;amp;next=t'&gt;&lt;em&gt;Beyond “Thank You for Your Service”&lt;/em&gt; by Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; 📈 &lt;a href='https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets/latest-numbers#:~:text=Annual%20Employment%20Situation%20of%20Veterans%20%E2%80%93%202024&amp;amp;text=Of%20those%20veterans%2C%208.44%20million,the%20full%20report%20for%202024.'&gt;U.S. Department of Labor Veteran Employment Data&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt; &lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Membership&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Magazine&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Website&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

  This Veterans Day, we’re honoring those who’ve served—and continuing the conversation on what service looks like after the uniform comes off.  Shannon is joined by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz, Founder and CEO of Vanguard Veteran, an organization dedicated to equipping civilians to become Veteran Champions. Kathy’s mission is clear: bridge the gap between military and civilian life and empower veterans to thrive in the workplace, community, and beyond.  From leading...

Vanguard Rising with Kathy Gallowitz

🔊 Description It’s Women in AI Month — and we’re diving into the human side of artificial intelligence.  Shannon is joined by Lei Comerford, an award-winning executive coach, certified AI consultant, and leadership facilitator who brings 25+ years of experience in healthcare, hospitality, and professional services. In this fast-paced and thought-provoking conversation, Lei unpacks what it means to become an “AI-powered professional,” and why the future of leadership is both human and machine.  From mindset shifts to mental load relief, and from prompt engineering to cognitive assistants (available 24/7/365!), this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about integrating AI into their work—without losing their humanity. Watch on YouTube: <a href='https://youtu.be/9X8Gkfl1IsY'>https://youtu.be/9X8Gkfl1IsY</a>💬 Quotes from Lei in this episode: “Women don’t need to code to belong in this AI era. We simply need visibility, access, and spaces to learn with confidence.” “Learning is wonderful, but it’s when you move it forward to impact that you really begin to make a difference.” “When we begin to build that fluency, you can start to use AI as a trusted tool. Ultimately, it transforms yourself, how you do your role, how it impacts your team as well as your organization for the better.” “Transformation changes curiosity—changes what’s possible.” “AI won’t replace adaptable leaders, but those who ignore it may be replaced by others who don’t.” “Think of AI as augmenting the human. It doesn’t replace our human intelligence.”  🔗 Episode Resources &amp; Links: 🌐 <a href='https://www.leicomerford.com'>Lei Comerford’s Website</a> 💼 <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/leicomerford/'>Connect with Lei on LinkedIn</a> 💼 <a href='https://www.instagram.com/leicomerford/'>Connect with Lei on Instagram</a> 📨 <a href='https://www.leicomerford.com'>Sign up for Lei’s Monthly Newsletter</a>  🔧 Short list of AI Tools: o   <a href='https://chat.openai.com/'>ChatGPT</a> o   Claude o   Perplexity o   Gamma o   Canva o   Ideogram o   Descript o   Microsoft Copilot 🔥 Whether you&apos;re AI-curious, tech-hesitant, or just wondering what “prompt engineering” actually means—this episode will expand your thinking, ease your fears, and remind you that the future of work needs more women with both courage and curiosity. EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'>Empowering Women in Industry Membership</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'>Empowering Women in Industry Magazine</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'>Empowering Women in Industry Website</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'>Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;🔊 Description&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;It’s Women in AI Month — and we’re diving into the human side of artificial intelligence. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; Shannon is joined by Lei Comerford, an award-winning executive coach, certified AI consultant, and leadership facilitator who brings 25+ years of experience in healthcare, hospitality, and professional services. In this fast-paced and thought-provoking conversation, Lei unpacks what it means to become an “AI-powered professional,” and why the future of leadership is both human and machine. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; From mindset shifts to mental load relief, and from prompt engineering to cognitive assistants (available 24/7/365!), this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about integrating AI into their work—without losing their humanity. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Watch on YouTube: &lt;/b&gt;&lt;a href='https://youtu.be/9X8Gkfl1IsY'&gt;&lt;b&gt;https://youtu.be/9X8Gkfl1IsY&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;💬 Quotes from Lei in this episode:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Women don’t need to code to belong in this AI era. We simply need visibility, access, and spaces to learn with confidence.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Learning is wonderful, but it’s when you move it forward to impact that you really begin to make a difference.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“When we begin to build that fluency, you can start to use AI as a trusted tool. Ultimately, it transforms yourself, how you do your role, how it impacts your team as well as your organization for the better.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Transformation changes curiosity—changes what’s possible.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“AI won’t replace adaptable leaders, but those who ignore it may be replaced by others who don’t.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Think of AI as augmenting the human. It doesn’t replace our human intelligence.” &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🔗 &lt;b&gt;Episode Resources &amp;amp; Links:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🌐 &lt;a href='https://www.leicomerford.com'&gt;Lei Comerford’s Website&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💼 &lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/leicomerford/'&gt;Connect with Lei on LinkedIn&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💼 &lt;a href='https://www.instagram.com/leicomerford/'&gt;Connect with Lei on Instagram&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;📨 &lt;a href='https://www.leicomerford.com'&gt;Sign up for Lei’s Monthly Newsletter&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔧 Short list of AI Tools: &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   &lt;a href='https://chat.openai.com/'&gt;ChatGPT&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Claude &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Perplexity &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Gamma &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Canva &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Ideogram &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Descript &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;o   Microsoft Copilot &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔥 Whether you&amp;apos;re AI-curious, tech-hesitant, or just wondering what “prompt engineering” actually means—this episode will expand your thinking, ease your fears, and remind you that the future of work needs more women with both courage and curiosity. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Membership&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Magazine&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Website&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

  🔊 Description  It’s Women in AI Month — and we’re diving into the human side of artificial intelligence.   Shannon is joined by Lei Comerford, an award-winning executive coach, certified AI consultant, and leadership facilitator who brings 25+ years of experience in healthcare, hospitality, and professional services. In this fast-paced and thought-provoking conversation, Lei unpacks what it means to become an “AI-powered professional,” and why the future of leadership is...

Human Heart. AI Power. with Lei Comerford

🔊 Description: What really powers manufacturing? People. In this Manufacturing Day episode, Shannon is joined by Ellen Sieminski, a lean expert, continuous improvement coach, and board member of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME). With 25+ years in the industry, Ellen brings deep experience and fresh perspective on how women, allies, and curious leaders are shaping the future of manufacturing. From the shop floor to the boardroom, Ellen shares why lean is never just about process—it’s about engagement, culture, and people.  💬 Quotes from Ellen in this episode: <ul><li>“If you’re not engaging the people doing the work, you’re missing the point of lean.”</li><li>“I want to be the person who brings the energy and says—let&apos;s not be afraid to try something new.”</li><li>“Women bring a level of awareness and perspective that is essential to long-term improvement and innovation.”</li><li>“Manufacturing doesn’t look like it did 30 years ago. And it shouldn’t.”</li></ul> 🔗 Episode Resources &amp; Links: <ul><li>AME Website: <a href='https://www.ame.org'>https://www.ame.org</a></li><li>AME International Conference (St. Louis | Oct 6–9, 2025): <a href='https://www.ame.org/ame-st-louis-2025-international-conference'>AME St. Louis 2025 International Conference | Association for Manufacturing Excellence</a></li><li>Books Mentioned: Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg </li><li>Connect with Ellen on LinkedIn: <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-sieminski-364b54/'>linkedin.com/in/ellen-sieminski-364b54</a></li></ul> 🔥 Whether you&apos;re deep in manufacturing or just love a good leadership story—this episode is your reminder that excellence doesn’t start with machines… it starts with us. Watch on <a href='https://youtu.be/15y8Akkg_Fs'>YouTube</a> EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'>Empowering Women in Industry Membership</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/events-1/empowering-women-in-industry-conference-gala'>National Event - Registration Link!!</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'>Empowering Women in Industry Magazine</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'>Empowering Women in Industry Website</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'>Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;🔊 Description:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What really powers manufacturing? &lt;em&gt;People.&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this Manufacturing Day episode, Shannon is joined by &lt;b&gt;Ellen Sieminski&lt;/b&gt;, a lean expert, continuous improvement coach, and board member of the &lt;b&gt;Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME)&lt;/b&gt;. With 25+ years in the industry, Ellen brings deep experience and fresh perspective on how women, allies, and curious leaders are shaping the future of manufacturing. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From the shop floor to the boardroom, Ellen shares why lean is never just about process—it’s about &lt;em&gt;engagement&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;culture&lt;/em&gt;, and &lt;em&gt;people&lt;/em&gt;. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;💬 Quotes from Ellen in this episode:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;“If you’re not engaging the people doing the work, you’re missing the point of lean.”&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;“I want to be the person who brings the energy and says—let&amp;apos;s not be afraid to try something new.”&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;“Women bring a level of awareness and perspective that is essential to long-term improvement and innovation.”&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;“Manufacturing doesn’t look like it did 30 years ago. And it &lt;em&gt;shouldn’t&lt;/em&gt;.”&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;b&gt;🔗 Episode Resources &amp;amp; Links:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;AME Website: &lt;a href='https://www.ame.org'&gt;https://www.ame.org&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;AME International Conference (St. Louis | Oct 6–9, 2025): &lt;a href='https://www.ame.org/ame-st-louis-2025-international-conference'&gt;AME St. Louis 2025 International Conference | Association for Manufacturing Excellence&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Books Mentioned: &lt;em&gt;Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead&lt;/em&gt; by Sheryl Sandberg &lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Connect with Ellen on LinkedIn: &lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-sieminski-364b54/'&gt;linkedin.com/in/ellen-sieminski-364b54&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🔥 Whether you&amp;apos;re deep in manufacturing or just love a good leadership story—this episode is your reminder that excellence doesn’t start with machines… it starts with &lt;em&gt;us&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt; &lt;b&gt;Watch on &lt;/b&gt;&lt;a href='https://youtu.be/15y8Akkg_Fs'&gt;&lt;b&gt;YouTube&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;b&gt; &lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;b&gt;EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Membership&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/events-1/empowering-women-in-industry-conference-gala'&gt;&lt;b&gt;National Event - Registration Link!!&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Magazine&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Website&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

🔊 Description:  What really powers manufacturing? People.  In this Manufacturing Day episode, Shannon is joined by Ellen Sieminski, a lean expert, continuous improvement coach, and board member of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME). With 25+ years in the industry, Ellen brings deep experience and fresh perspective on how women, allies, and curious leaders are shaping the future of manufacturing.  From the shop floor to the boardroom, Ellen shares why lean is nev...

People-Powered Manufacturing with Ellen Sieminski

September has us juggling back-to-school, conferences, fall festivals, and holiday prep before we can even say “pumpkin spice.” Feeling like you’re already running on fumes? You’re not alone. And that’s why today’s episode is pure gold. I’m joined by Marisa Wheeling Ciesluk—burnout survivor, recovering perfectionist, and Chief Firestarter at MWC Leadership. With over 20 years of experience in leadership development, she helps ambitious women and people-centered leaders grow without burning out, lead without losing themselves, and want more—without compromise. Marisa doesn’t just talk theory. She knows firsthand the cost of burnout and how to build self-trust, clarity, and that inner fire that keeps us leading strong. ✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode: <ul><li>Why September is basically a “second January” (and how burnout sneaks in the back door).</li><li>Practical, no-fluff strategies to stay grounded while life is spinning.</li><li>How to want more—career growth, family time, personal fulfillment—without playing tug-of-war with yourself.</li><li>What it really means to “lead without losing yourself.”</li></ul> 💡 Quotes from Marisa in this episode:  “You can grow without burning out. You can lead without losing yourself. You can want more—without compromise.”<ul><li>“If I just push harder, I’ll get through this season—that’s the lie so many leaders tell themselves. But that mindset always backfires.”</li><li>“The smallest step, taken with clarity, has a ripple effect that changes everything.”</li></ul> This conversation is equal parts wisdom, laughter, and a gentle nudge to put down the Superwoman cape and pick up something better: clarity, courage, and joy.   📚 Books Mentioned in This Episode:  <ul><li><a href='https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Rest-Recover-Schedule-Declutter/dp/1478921670?utm_source=chatgpt.com'>Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith</a> — exploring the 7 types of rest we all need.</li><li><a href='https://www.amazon.com/Playing-Big-Practical-Wisdom-Women/dp/1592409601?utm_source=chatgpt.com'>Playing Big by Tara Mohr</a> — a must-read for women ready to step fully into their leadership.</li></ul> 🔗 Connect with Marisa: Website: <a href='http://www.mwcleadership.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com'>mwcleadership.com</a> LinkedIn: <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwheelingciesluk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com'>linkedin.com/in/mwheelingciesluk</a> Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/HljvFIRmuiY  EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'>Empowering Women in Industry Membership</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/events-1/empowering-women-in-industry-conference-gala'>National Event - Registration Link!!</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'>Empowering Women in Industry Magazine</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'>Empowering Women in Industry Website</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'>Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;September has us juggling back-to-school, conferences, fall festivals, and holiday prep before we can even say “pumpkin spice.” Feeling like you’re already running on fumes? You’re not alone. And that’s why today’s episode is pure gold. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;I’m joined by &lt;b&gt;Marisa Wheeling Ciesluk&lt;/b&gt;—burnout survivor, recovering perfectionist, and Chief Firestarter at MWC Leadership. With over 20 years of experience in leadership development, she helps ambitious women and people-centered leaders grow without burning out, lead without losing themselves, and want more—without compromise. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Marisa doesn’t just talk theory. She knows firsthand the cost of burnout and how to build self-trust, clarity, and that inner fire that keeps us leading strong. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ &lt;b&gt;What You’ll Hear in This Episode:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Why September is basically a “second January” (and how burnout sneaks in the back door).&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Practical, no-fluff strategies to stay grounded while life is spinning.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;How to &lt;em&gt;want more&lt;/em&gt;—career growth, family time, personal fulfillment—without playing tug-of-war with yourself.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;What it really means to “lead without losing yourself.”&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;💡 &lt;b&gt;Quotes from Marisa in this episode:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“You can grow without burning out. You can lead without losing yourself. You can want more—without compromise.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;em&gt;“If I just push harder, I’ll get through this season—that’s the lie so many leaders tell themselves. But that mindset always backfires.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;em&gt;“The smallest step, taken with clarity, has a ripple effect that changes everything.”&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;This conversation is equal parts wisdom, laughter, and a gentle nudge to put down the Superwoman cape and pick up something better: clarity, courage, and joy.&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;📚 &lt;b&gt;Books Mentioned in This Episode:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Rest-Recover-Schedule-Declutter/dp/1478921670?utm_source=chatgpt.com'&gt;&lt;em&gt;Sacred Rest&lt;/em&gt; by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith&lt;/a&gt; — exploring the 7 types of rest we all need.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.amazon.com/Playing-Big-Practical-Wisdom-Women/dp/1592409601?utm_source=chatgpt.com'&gt;&lt;em&gt;Playing Big&lt;/em&gt; by Tara Mohr&lt;/a&gt; — a must-read for women ready to step fully into their leadership.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;🔗 &lt;b&gt;Connect with Marisa:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; Website: &lt;a href='http://www.mwcleadership.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com'&gt;mwcleadership.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; LinkedIn: &lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwheelingciesluk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com'&gt;linkedin.com/in/mwheelingciesluk&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt; &lt;b&gt;Watch On YouTube: &lt;/b&gt;https://youtu.be/HljvFIRmuiY&lt;b&gt; &lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;b&gt;EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Membership&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/events-1/empowering-women-in-industry-conference-gala'&gt;&lt;b&gt;National Event - Registration Link!!&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Magazine&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Website&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;br/&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br/&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

  September has us juggling back-to-school, conferences, fall festivals, and holiday prep before we can even say “pumpkin spice.” Feeling like you’re already running on fumes? You’re not alone. And that’s why today’s episode is pure gold.  I’m joined by Marisa Wheeling Ciesluk—burnout survivor, recovering perfectionist, and Chief Firestarter at MWC Leadership. With over 20 years of experience in leadership development, she helps ambitious women and people-centered leaders grow witho...

Grow Without Burnout with Marisa Wheeling Ciesluk

On this special Women’s Equality Day episode, host Shannon Bumgarner sits down with Maria Brinck—leadership advisor, founder of Zynergy International, and author of The Leadership We Need: A New Mindset for a Brighter Future. Maria’s career has spanned continents and boardrooms, but her mission is simple: to transform the way we lead. In this conversation, she shares why the leaders of today cannot be the leaders of tomorrow, how unconscious bias still shapes who gets a seat at the table, and why feminine values like compassion and inclusion are the leadership superpowers we need right now. If you’re ready to challenge outdated leadership models and imagine a brighter, more human-centered future, this episode will leave you inspired, motivated, and ready to take action. 💡Listen in, be inspired, and let’s rewrite the leadership playbook—together.  Watch on YouTube<a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDVxLsosGxY'>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDVxLsosGxY</a>CONNECT WITH MARIA Social Media: <a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabrinck/'>LinkedIn</a> Zynergy International: <a href='https://www.zynergyinternational.com/'>Website</a>   ✨Highlights &amp; Takeaways from Maria Brinck “We are in a polycrisis, and the leadership that got us here is not the leadership that will get us out.” “The leaders of today should not be the leaders of tomorrow—because tomorrow requires a completely different mindset.” “Masculine monoculture in leadership is costing us 8.8 trillion dollars in disengagement. That is not sustainable—financially or humanly.” “Diversity of thought isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the only way to solve the complex problems we face today.” “GDP is not a prerequisite for happiness, nor does it guarantee it. We have to stop confusing growth with well-being.” “Primitive subconscious bias still tells us what a leader is supposed to look like—and it keeps too many women out of the room.” “It’s not about women leading like men. It’s about integrating feminine values—like compassion, inclusion, and sustainability—into leadership everywhere.”   EPISODE AND EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS <a href='https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/the-leadership-we-need-a-new-mindset-for-a-brighter-future/9781399823425.html'>Upcoming Book: The Leadership We Need Releasing on Oct 7 2025</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'>Empowering Women in Industry Membership</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/events-1/empowering-women-in-industry-conference-gala'>National Event - Registration Link!!</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'>Empowering Women in Industry Magazine</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'>Empowering Women in Industry Website</a> <a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'>Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events</a>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;On this special Women’s Equality Day episode, host &lt;b&gt;Shannon Bumgarner&lt;/b&gt; sits down with &lt;b&gt;Maria Brinck&lt;/b&gt;—leadership advisor, founder of Zynergy International, and author of The Leadership We Need: A New Mindset for a Brighter Future. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Maria’s career has spanned continents and boardrooms, but her mission is simple: to transform the way we lead. In this conversation, she shares why the leaders of today cannot be the leaders of tomorrow, how unconscious bias still shapes who gets a seat at the table, and why feminine values like compassion and inclusion are the leadership superpowers we need right now. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’re ready to challenge outdated leadership models and imagine a brighter, more human-centered future, this episode will leave you inspired, motivated, and ready to take action. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💡&lt;b&gt;Listen in, be inspired, and let’s rewrite the leadership playbook—together.&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;b&gt;Watch on YouTube&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDVxLsosGxY'&gt;https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDVxLsosGxY&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;CONNECT WITH MARIA&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Social Media:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabrinck/'&gt;LinkedIn&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Zynergy International:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;a href='https://www.zynergyinternational.com/'&gt;Website&lt;/a&gt;  &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨&lt;b&gt;Highlights &amp;amp; Takeaways from Maria Brinck&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“We are in a polycrisis, and the leadership that got us here is not the leadership that will get us out.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“The leaders of today should not be the leaders of tomorrow—because tomorrow requires a completely different mindset.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“Masculine monoculture in leadership is costing us 8.8 trillion dollars in disengagement. That is not sustainable—financially or humanly.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“Diversity of thought isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the only way to solve the complex problems we face today.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“GDP is not a prerequisite for happiness, nor does it guarantee it. We have to stop confusing growth with well-being.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“Primitive subconscious bias still tells us what a leader is supposed to look like—and it keeps too many women out of the room.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“It’s not about women leading like men. It’s about integrating feminine values—like compassion, inclusion, and sustainability—into leadership everywhere.”&lt;/em&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;EPISODE AND EMPOWERING WOMEN IN INDUSTRY LINKS&lt;/b&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/the-leadership-we-need-a-new-mindset-for-a-brighter-future/9781399823425.html'&gt;Upcoming Book: The Leadership We Need Releasing on Oct 7 2025&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/plans-pricing'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Membership&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/events-1/empowering-women-in-industry-conference-gala'&gt;&lt;b&gt;National Event - Registration Link!!&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/magazine'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Magazine&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Website&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events'&gt;Empowering Women in Industry Virtual Events&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

  On this special Women’s Equality Day episode, host Shannon Bumgarner sits down with Maria Brinck—leadership advisor, founder of Zynergy International, and author of The Leadership We Need: A New Mindset for a Brighter Future.  Maria’s career has spanned continents and boardrooms, but her mission is simple: to transform the way we lead. In this conversation, she shares why the leaders of today cannot be the leaders of tomorrow, how unconscious bias still shapes who gets a seat at the ta...

Leadership We Need with Maria Brinck 

Interviews with successful career women from a variety of industries. We hope to empower women in their career aspirations, whether that's climbing a corporate ladder or becoming an entrepreneur.

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