From Jersey to Utah: One Woman's Journey Through PR, Politics, and Purpose

Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message.How do you brew a successful career in communications while creating meaningful community impact? For Nikki Walker, founder and CEO of NWPR & Consulting, the answer lies in patience, authenticity, and taking up space unapologetically.Having spent 25 years in public relations and communications, Walker brings a unique perspective on how the industry has transformed. "Ten years ago it was really about the magazines on the newsstands," she explains. "Now it is about the quick hit and how quickly you can get on someone's Instagram feed." This rapid evolution demands new metrics, strategies, and an understanding that the turnaround time is, in her words, "insane."Walker's career path exemplifies the value of circling back to your strengths. After running a PR agency for a decade, working in global brand awareness for a multi-billion dollar company, and diving into tech industry community engagement and DEI, she recently relaunched her PR firm. Alongside this professional renaissance, she's returned to school for her communications degree at Western Governors University—proving it's never too late to formalize the expertise you've developed through experience.The most compelling thread throughout our conversation is Walker's passionate belief in mentorship. "My mentor once told me that it takes time to brew coffee. If you want a good cup of coffee, you got to brew it. You can't have instant coffee," she shares. This philosophy extends beyond professional development into how she approaches board service with organizations like the State Workforce Development Board, Utah Foster Care, the Children's Center, and the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce.When discussing workplace trends, Walker highlights the growing importance of apprenticeships, especially in tech. She also emphasizes that companies must now tell their emotional stories authentically: "It is not enough to be good. You also have to do no harm." This principle guided her during her run for state Senate—a challenging experience that taught her valuable lessons about community, representation, and maintaining self-worth.Walker leaves us with a powerful call to action for women leaders: "Take up space everywhere you go so that the little girl can see you taking up space and know that it's appropriate and normal." By normalizing female leadership through visibility and mentorship, we create pathways for the next generation to follow.Ready to make your impact? Start where you have the most influence, find your passion, and join with others working toward the same goals. As Walker reminds us, meaningful change doesn't require moving mountains all at once—sometimes it's just one rock at a time.www.wliut.com@utwomenleaders