March 7, 2025
As I reflect on the journey that has made me who I am today, I am reminded of three incredible women who have left their mark on my life — my mother, Sally and Penny. Each of them has taught me lessons that I carry with me every day, and I am forever grateful for their presence in my life.
My mother has always been my rock. Growing up, she juggled a full-time teaching job and raising me — often on her own. We didn’t have much, but her love made up for it. She never put herself first, always ensuring our family’s needs were met. Even now, as a grown woman in my 40s, I still get those daily texts from her: “Did you sleep enough last night?” This might seem odd. But these super mundane moments of care capture the essence of her care. Knowing she is my biggest fan has given me the courage to chase my dreams.
Sally was more than just a mentor; she was my professional guardian angel. She introduced me to the wild world of PR and gave me the space to learn and grow. When I hit rock bottom professionally, Sally’s empathy and confidence in me helped me find my footing again. “It sounds like you need a drink,” she called, while I was sobbing in my apartment, feeling like I’d blown my professional career — her words saved me from thinking I couldn’t do this job. She taught me that mistakes don’t define us; resilience does. It turns out, I’m pretty good at doing what I do. Her lesson guides me every day as I lead my team through the ups and downs. Empower, and not condemn.
Penny, my business partner and founder of our agency, is the epitome of leadership and grace. A trailblazer in our industry, she shared her wisdom generously and lived by her mantra: “Lead by example.” From her, I learned that being kind, successful and female are not mutually exclusive. Her guidance shaped how I lead today — I always put in my 100% and never ask others to do something I wouldn’t do myself, and that’s made all the difference.
These women have each given me invaluable gifts: love without conditions, belief in second chances and leadership with integrity. As I navigate life and work, including leading an agency of 100+ people, I strive to pass on these values — empowering young women and men to find their own paths just as these remarkable women empowered me.
This International Women’s Day, I celebrate them and all women who inspire strength and possibility in others.
