Uniting to Advance Women: Lela Davidson & Kimberly McGee of NextUp Northwest Arkansas

About the Show:Be part of the band and join NextUp to advance women in business and the workplace through the power of community."It's important to see people that not only look like you but have had some of the same shared experiences, as it helps validate the path you're on and strengthens your voice." - Kimberly McGeeLela Davidson is a 19-year Northwest Arkansas resident and co-chair of NextUP, an organization dedicated to advancing women, growing businesses, and transforming the workplace through the power of community. Kimberly McGee has been in Northwest Arkansas for 20 years and is a co-chair of NextUP, where she leads the team that launched the Mentor Circles program.Kimberly McGee and Lela Davidson met through mutual involvement in the Junior League. They decided to join forces to get involved with NextUP, a national organization that helps advance women and grows businesses. They helped establish the Northwest Arkansas chapter of NextUp. Through mentoring circles and events like their annual LPGA event, NextUP has provided a safe space for women to develop their voices, grow professionally, and build a robust and supportive community of like-minded individuals. Men are encouraged to become allies; anyone can join the movement and become "part of the band."In this episode, you will learn the following:1. How can men become allies to advance women's issues?2. How can companies create a more inclusive environment for female employees?3. What opportunities are available for female entrepreneurs through the NextUP organization?All this and more on this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Lela DavidsonEmail Kimberly McGeeWebsite for NextUpNextUp on LinkedInNextUP on YouTubeNextUp on InstagramNextUp on FacebookNextUp on TwitterNextUp on Tik TokThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at [email protected] With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:Winetopia 2026Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026