Taking Charge of Your Career with Geralyn Ritter, President & CEO of Crowell Global Advisors

In this episode, I’m joined by Geralyn Ritter, President and CEO of Crowell Global Advisors, a public policy consulting firm that advises clients on global health policy, technology, AI, and international trade. Geralyn has built a career that spans law, government, and the private sector, including negotiating trade agreements at the World Trade Organization, leading global public policy at Merck, and helping spin off an S&P 500 company dedicated to women’s health.Growing up in Texas as the oldest of four, Geralyn was encouraged by her parents to keep her options open, which is a mindset that shaped every decision she’s made since graduating high school. Instead of choosing between law and international policy, she pursued both, earning a joint degree in law and a master’s in International Studies.Geralyn shares honest advice on risk-taking and how your tolerance for change will look different at every stage of life. Whether you’re figuring out what to study, considering entrepreneurship, or curious about how to position yourself for an opportunity, this conversation is a great reminder that very few career decisions are permanent, and that trying something new is almost always worth it.Episode Outline(01:29) Growing up in Texas and being encouraged to explore(04:40) How Geralyn chose her college path without knowing exactly what she wanted(06:52) Career advice: why she started in the private sector before going into government(09:44) How a mix of different experiences opened doors throughout her career(23:17) Taking career risks and having confidence in yourself(25:41) Why public policy and healthcare need more passionate young people(29:28) Entrepreneurship, risk tolerance, and knowing when to take the leapConnect with GeralynFollow Geralyn on LinkedInLearn more about Crowell Global AdvisorsConnect with AndrewSubscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on:YouTube SpotifyApple Podcasts