Some people plan their lives in five-year increments.Others learn that the most meaningful growth happens when the plan changes. Katie Winchenbach is a leader who embodies that second truth. A corporate attorney, nonprofit leader, podcast host, and reigning National United States Miss 2025, Katie’s path has been shaped not by…

Some leaders know exactly where they want to land.Others discover their purpose by staying curious — and allowing themselves to pivot. Brandy Farrar’s journey reflects the power of intention, mentorship, and thinking beyond the path you first imagine for yourself. A senior leader at the American Institutes for Research (AIR),…

Some people reinvent themselves once.Monica McGee has done it many times — each time with more clarity, courage, and truth. Artist, entrepreneur, and founder of MoKaso, Monica’s journey is layered with creativity, business savvy, deep self-reflection, and a fierce commitment to growth. For host Tiffany Odutoye, this episode is especially…

Some leaders rise by climbing ladders.Others rise by building something that didn’t exist — and inviting others up with them. Patrice Thornton has spent her career doing exactly that. As the Founder and President of Human Resource Management Solutions (HRMS), Patrice built her business to meet a gap she saw…

Some careers move in straight lines.Others bend, pause, restart — and grow stronger because of it. Julie Homsy’s leadership journey is a reflection of that second path. A recruiter, consultant, and longtime talent partner, Julie has spent her career helping people and organizations find alignment — often while navigating her…

Some leaders follow a map.Others learn by jumping — and figuring it out midair. Janis Mitchell has never waited to feel completely ready. A longtime entrepreneur, woman in tech, and talent strategist, she built her career by trusting instinct, embracing failure, and leaning hard into resilience when certainty wasn’t available.…

Some leaders pivot by choice.Others pivot because standing still is no longer an option. Amy Pierquet knows what it means to lead through fear — and to come out stronger on the other side. Founder of Waterfront Graphic Design, Amy has spent more than two decades helping businesses tell their…

Some leaders teach through titles.  Others teach through presence.  Dr. Carol Simmons — lovingly known as “Doc” — has spent her life doing the latter. At nearly 79 years young, she is still writing grants at dawn, building community programs, mentoring leaders, and reminding us that leadership isn’t about position…