NAWBO ON THE GO

Latina founder, restaurateur and community advocate Diva Name is building more than a place to eat—she’s creating an experience rooted in culture, connection and bold leadership that’s worth slowing down to savor. As the owner of La Mexicana Taco Bar and The Local All-in Catering in South Florida, and a Top 3 Finalist for NAWBO’s 2026 Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, Diva brings together her love of food, music and art to create something truly unforgettable. In this episode, Diva shares what inspired her journey, how she’s weathered the ups and downs of the restaurant industry by expanding into catering and why community-centered events she hosts like her annual Cinco de Mayo festival are just as important as what’s on the menu.To learn more about Top 3 Finalist Diva Name, visit: https://nawbo.org/blog/finding-flavor-and-building-community-diva-name-turns-a-dream-into-la-mexicana 

For women business owners, the ability to vote is a business imperative.In this episode of NAWBO On the Go, we’re joined by Thresette Briggs, NAWBO National Advocacy Chair, for a clear breakdown of the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Act) and why NAWBO is paying close attention to its potential impact on women, especially women business owners who have experienced name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other life events.Thresette explains:What the SAVE Act is and what it would require for federal voter registration and votingWhy NAWBO supports election integrity and free, fair elections while raising concerns about added documentation burdensWhat forms of proof could be required (and why common IDs like standard driver’s licenses may not qualify in many states)The potential unintended consequences, including time, complexity, and access issues for eligible votersWhy fewer voices at the polls can shape the policies that directly affect women-owned businessesTo read NAWBO and WIPP’s joint statement on the SAVE Act:https://nawbo.org/blog/womens-business-groups-thank-leader-thune-for-removing-save-america-act-from-pending-businessLearn more about NAWBO:https://www.nawbo.orgLearn more about NAWBO Advocacy:https://nawbo.org/advocacy

Lindsey Paulsen, Vice President of Digital Innovation at Opportunity International, is working at the intersection of technology, funding and purpose to expand access to opportunities for women entrepreneurs around the world. In this episode, she shares how her organization is investing in women living in extreme poverty, supporting small businesses, and what those efforts reveal about the universal drive women share, no matter where they live. From wanting to provide for their families to creating better futures for their children, the goals are the same, but the barriers are not. Lindsey also reflects on a powerful truth: potential is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. She explores what it takes to close that gap and how we can all think differently about access, equity and impact.To learn more about Opportunity International, visit: www.opportunity.org

Behind every great experience is someone making it all work, and for NAWBO, that’s Katie Hatfield. As Executive Assistant to the CEO and a key force behind the NAWBO Institute, Katie plays a central role in organizing, expanding and bringing to life the resources that support women business owners at every stage. In this episode, Katie pulls back the curtain on the NAWBO Institute’s educational Journeys—designed to meet women where they are, from just starting out to scaling beyond $1M—and shares how a common challenge sparked one of NAWBO’s most exciting innovations yet: Susan, a new AI-powered chatbot guide who cuts through the overwhelm and helps women business owners quickly find the right resources, tools and next steps based on their unique goals.To learn more about NAWBO Institute Journeys, visit: https://nawbo.org/nawbo-journeys To access the Institute and start your journey with Susan’s help, visit: https://nawbo.org/institute

What happens when advocacy efforts hit a roadblock, but the mission is too important to pause? Elle Patout, Director of Advocacy and Public Relations at NAWBO, returns to share insights from the latest visit to Capitol Hill and continued efforts to advance a national microbusiness definition. While the issue gained traction across party lines, it’s not a current priority for Congress. So what’s next? Elle breaks down how NAWBO is shifting from a federal legislative push to building coalitions, expanding state-level momentum and equipping chapters with the tools to drive change where it matters most. She also shares updates on NAWBO’s regional advocacy efforts and offers ways for all members to get involved, lend their voice and help shape the future of policy for women business owners.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.orgTo learn more about Advocacy, visit: https://nawbo.org/advocacy 

What if the breakthrough you’re looking for isn’t at your desk? In this episode, Deanna Novak, NAWBO Institute Board Chair and founder of The Write Journeys, shares why stepping away from your day-to-day can be one of the most powerful things you do for your business. From poolside ideas to “aha” moments in unexpected places, she explores how changing your environment sparks creativity, sharpens decision-making and helps you think bigger. She also gives a preview of an exciting retreat experience designed to do exactly that. If you’ve been feeling stuck, stretched or simply ready for fresh perspective, this conversation is your invitation to step away—and move forward.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/ To learn more about the writer’s retreat, visit: https://writeawayretreats.com/ 

If you are a women business owner doing “good” on paper but still feeling stuck in the messy middle, this episode is for you.In this NAWBO On the Go episode, NAWBO HQ’s Tonia Chagnon sits down with NAWBO National Board Chair Megan Patton to break down Strategic Leap, a growth-focused program built for NAWBO members who are ready to scale and want real structure, real support, and a clearer path forward.We talk about who Strategic Leap is designed for (including the revenue range), why the experience is intentionally curated, and what topics help women business owners move from “busy and stuck” to scalable and strategic. Megan also shares key community updates, including a reminder about Legacy Lifetime Membership (limited spots) and why NAWBO Days in Washington, DC matters more than ever.What we cover in this episode:Who Strategic Leap is for (and why it is not for “just curious”)What it looks like to scale from $250K toward $1M with a stronger foundationThe business-building topics that move the needle (KPIs, team, SOPs, scalable models)How NAWBO creates opportunity through community, leadership, and advocacyUpdates on Legacy Lifetime Membership and NAWBO DaysLearn more about NAWBO: https://nawbo.orgSubscribe for more episodes of NAWBO On the Go.Chapters (timestamps):00:00 Welcome + what we are talking about00:38 What is Strategic Leap?04:07 Who Strategic Leap is for05:12 What the experience is designed to do06:12 The growth topics you will cover13:14 Why Megan is all-in on this work15:17 Legacy Lifetime Membership update16:10 NAWBO Days in Washington, DC (Advocacy Day)

What happens when women business owners’ biggest concerns are carried straight to Capitol Hill? Elle Patout, NAWBO National’s Director of Advocacy and Public Relations, joins the conversation to recap her recent trip alongside NAWBO’s CEO and National Board Chair. From meetings with members of Congress to a conversation with a Minnesota representative on the Small Business Committee, they brought forward real-time challenges women business owners are facing across the country, with each conversation tailored to the office. She also unpacks NAWBO’s latest survey results, revealing a notable shift in priorities this year. Taxes top the list of concerns, followed closely by AI, access to capital and workplace benefits. The changes signal a new chapter in the economic landscape and underscore why advocacy has never been more critical.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

What if the perspective you need most is your own—from the future? Andrea Liebross, speaker, host of the She Thinks Big podcast and author of She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary, joins the conversation to talk about what it takes for women entrepreneurs to think bigger about what’s possible. This NAWBO Indianapolis member works with women founders whose businesses may look successful on the outside but feel exhausting on the inside. That constant pressure can keep even high-achieving leaders stuck in a cycle of playing small. Andrea explains why big thinking requires trust and walks through a powerful exercise: imagining yourself in the future and asking, when faced with a challenge today, what would future you say? The answer just might change how you lead.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

What if the only thing standing between you and stronger sales is a mindset shift? In this episode, Tish Times, founder and CEO of Tish Times Sales Agency and member of NAWBO Phoenix, dives into the topic so many entrepreneurs avoid—sales. She works with high-performing, high-achieving female entrepreneurs who are exceptional at what they do, yet still struggle to build a consistent, scalable sales process. Tish shares how shifting from “I have to sell” to “I get to help” changes everything. When that mindset shift is paired with clear systems, processes and automations, business owners can step out of the day-to-day sales hustle and empower their teams to confidently contribute to the bottom line. By the end of this episode, you just might find yourself thinking, “I can do this.”To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Dr. Rita Renee Gibson, Your Ultimate PowerHouse Coach, speaker, author and NAWBO Greater Raleigh member, has spent decades leading under pressure. With more than 36 years in nursing and corporate leadership, she learned early that leadership isn’t about recognition, but responsibility—it’s about listening deeply, earning trust and showing up consistently, especially when the stakes are high. In this episode, Dr. Rita reflects on what happens when external success comes at the cost of internal erosion. She shares the pivotal moment she chose alignment over burnout and how unmuting her voice led to clarity and courage that changed everything. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Luxury artisan and Repinned Luxury Upholstery Workroom owner Riana LeJeune sees possibility where others see worn, outdated or forgotten.A member of NAWBO Iowa and the chapter’s Woman Business Owner of the Year, Riana’s journey into entrepreneurship didn’t begin with a plan to build a luxury brand, but with creativity and a willingness to say yes.After offering to refinish furniture for fellow moms who loved beautiful spaces but lacked the time or tools, Riana discovered a calling in upholstery—an art many believed was fading. Her business became living proof that craftsmanship and storytelling still matter.In this episode, Riana shares about her passions and how motherhood motivates her to build a lasting legacy. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

What if certification didn’t just open doors, but helped businesses walk through them faster? SupplierGateway CEO Michael Cardinal and Chairman Ade Solaru share how their platform was built to solve real-world procurement challenges, helping buyers make smarter decisions while creating meaningful access for suppliers. They discuss SupplierGateway’s partnership with the NAWBO Institute and how combining NAWBO’s decades of certification expertise with modern procurement infrastructure helps women-owned businesses move from recognition to readiness, making certification part of the systems that drive opportunity.To learn more about NAWBO Institute WBE/MWBE Certification, visit: https://nawbo.org/certification 

NAWBO has always been powered by women who choose to show up—not just for themselves, but for future generations of women business owners. In this episode, NAWBO National Board Member Janet Kendall White sits down with Judi Firestone-Roth, a NAWBO Lifetime Member of 40 years, to share exciting news and reflect on what lasting impact truly looks like. Together, they announce the return of NAWBO’s Legacy Lifetime Membership, a prestigious, limited-time opportunity being offered for only the second time in NAWBO’s 50-year history. Available to just 100 members, this membership honors those willing to stand with NAWBO at a pivotal moment—one where advocacy must turn into real access. It’s a powerful reminder that legacy isn’t about how long you’ve been involved, but about the impact you choose to make.To learn more about Legacy Lifetime Membership: nawbo.org/membership/lifetime2026 

Psychotherapist, speaker, author and coach Kim McLaughlin, MA of Feed Your Soul and NAWBO Sacramento Valley believes caring for mental health isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential for women business owners. In this episode, she explores the hidden costs of internalizing emotions and how emotional suppression is often mislabeled as strength in business culture. Kim invites women to reflect on how honoring their full selves—emotions included—can lead to better leadership decisions, deeper creativity and more authentic connection. Join her as she reimagines what it means to show up as a woman in business.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

The restaurant business is one of the toughest there is, and Sarah White knows that firsthand. As the owner of four restaurants in Northern Virginia, her journey is defined by grit, heart and an unshakable belief in herself. Diagnosed at 18 with a rare medical condition and advised to go on disability, Sarah chose a different path, following her passion for hospitality. Along the way, she learned the power of surrounding herself with the right people, showing up fully for her team and refusing to let setbacks define her story. In this episode, Sarah shares what it takes to persevere in a demanding industry, why relationships matter and advice that has guided her every step of the way.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

After years in hospital and health system leadership, Michal Waechter launched Waechter Consulting Group to help healthcare organizations grow through strategy and engagement. But it’s her volunteer leadership with the Ranch Chic Fashion Show—a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society in San Antonio, TX, that was started by a small group of women—that truly reflects her heart for service. Michal shares how community work and purpose-driven giving can renew your energy and build a stronger, more balanced business and life. “There’s so much more to what rounds us out as humans and as women,” she says about her volunteer work in her community and gardening era at home.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Emily Rogers of NAWBO Greater Tampa Lakeland has spent her life refusing to “walk behind.” Growing up in Saudi Arabia, a simple childhood question—why women and children always followed the men—sparked a lifelong passion for women’s development. In this episode, Emily shares how that early spark of independence helped carry her through one of the biggest crises of her life: losing everything she owned in Hurricane Milton. She talks about the shock of starting over, the power of accepting help and the moment she finally recognized the post-traumatic stress stored in her body and began the work to release it. Emily’s story is one of community, collaboration and the surprising opportunities that can emerge after the storm. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Jodi Segal, founder of Equitable Employee Handbooks and a member of NAWBO’s Columbus Chapter, is on a mission to change the way businesses think about handbooks. Too often, these documents are written to protect the company instead of the people, quickly becoming something employees sign and then forget. But Jodi sees handbooks as so much more: they’re the DNA of a business, telling its story, values and vision for how leaders and employees can succeed together. In this episode, Jodi shares why a handbook should build trust, support equity and help companies keep their best people—not just check boxes. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Bonnie Chavez, CEO of Building Beloved Communities in Roanoke, VA, grew up in a small town in Southern New Mexico where economic opportunity was scarce. Her family often relied on food boxes, and just as often, served on the other side of the line—sorting, packing and distributing food. Those early lessons in service and connection shaped her life’s work and leadership. In this episode, Bonnie shares how deep listening, compassion and a simple cup of coffee can create space for partnership and belonging. She unpacks the inspiration behind her company’s name, drawn from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a world without poverty, bigotry or racism, and challenges us to ask: How do we translate vision into everyday actions that move us closer to a truly beloved community?To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Shawnda Sparks isn’t just a seasoned wealth advisor at Perspective Financial Group—she’s also a certified scuba diver of 13 years. In this episode, she takes a deep dive into smart financial strategies for business owners. From choosing the right retirement plans to maximizing tax deductions and structuring compensation, Shawnda shares expert insights to help you and your employees build lasting wealth. Don’t miss these game-changing tips that could transform your financial future!To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

After a historic 43-day government shutdown, NAWBO’s Advocacy Director Elle Patout returns with an inside look at a productive week on Capitol Hill. She breaks down what unfolded during the shutdown and what women business owners can expect as Congress heads into late-January negotiations. At the center of it all? The unresolved future of Affordable Care Act subsidies, and the potential impact rising healthcare costs could have on individuals and small businesses. Elle also shares what she’s seeing in the current political climate: renewed energy around accountability and transparency and very different dynamics in the Senate and House. As always, she offers a nonpartisan look at what’s at stake now that we’re back in business, and what comes next.To fill out the survey, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NAWBO_General_2025To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

For many women entrepreneurs, the world of WBE and MWBE certification can feel confusing—like a box they’re not sure they fit into. Dr. Lena Graham and Molly Gimmel, members of the NAWBO Institute Certification Committee, are here to clear things up. In this episode, they share why certification is always a good thing for business, from establishing credibility to opening doors with corporations and government entities. They also explore how certification serves as a powerful business development tool and why it’s still highly relevant today and even share a few fun facts, including Lena’s past as a celebrity makeup artist and Molly’s HGTV obsession.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Hema Crockett has the kind of résumé most people dream of—international teacher, corporate leader and founder of Recalibrate Coaching in San Diego, CA. But behind the polished surface, she knew something was missing. In this episode, Hema challenges the myth of work/life balance and reframes life as one fluid experience: sometimes work-heavy, sometimes life-heavy and always shifting. From the grind of startups to a slower season in Nepal, she shares the turning points that helped her rebuild life and business on her own terms, plus how women entrepreneurs can move from juggling to true integration and reconnect with their authentic selves.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

From biking 60 miles a day across Vietnam to raise money for women and girls, to helping people leave a lasting legacy through planned giving—Melissa Northway’s philosophy is simple: Say “yes” and go for it! In this episode, Melissa, a California-based former NAWBO president, shares her powerful approach to creating lasting impact. She dives into how donors can align their charitable giving with their personal values, while providing long-term stability for the nonprofits they care about. Ready to learn how to leave a legacy that truly matters? Every gift counts for the NAWBO Institute and the more than 14 million U.S. women business owners we now serve. Please consider giving as you are able here. To discuss planned giving, reach out to Becky Ragan at [email protected]. 

After years in sales, business development and even helping roll out electric vehicle infrastructure, Stacy Huston hit a point where she couldn't picture what was next—until she quite literally said "yes" to everything.That openness led her to SixDegrees.org, the nonprofit founded by Kevin Bacon that's reconnecting communities through storytelling and hands-on impact.Now nine years into her role as Executive Director, this LA-turned-DC leader shares how disconnection is quietly eroding our society, and how businesses and their teams can change that while strengthening culture and the bottom line.Plus, as an Office superfan (she's watched it more than a dozen times!) and true crime junkie, Stacy reminds us that joy and curiosity are both essential parts of saying yes to life.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

After more than 25 years in corporate America working on mergers and acquisitions, Renita Wolf saw firsthand how many business owners weren’t prepared for what came after selling their companies. That experience—combined with her family’s own small business roots—inspired her to launch Poe Wolf Partners, where she helps small and mid-market business owners prepare to exit on their own terms. In this episode, Renita, a NAWBO Virtual member from Colorado Springs, CO, shares why she believes entrepreneurship is one of the most honorable professions and the surprising regret she often sees from business owners post-sale.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Debra Michals may binge true crime shows and dream of being a private investigator in her next life, but in this one, she’s an associate professor, historian, and author uncovering mysteries of a different kind: the untold stories of women in business. A former journalist who wrote about women entrepreneurs breaking barriers, Debra turned her curiosity into a book after asking: Where did all these women business owners come from, and why was entrepreneurship such a powerful path for them? In this episode, Debra takes us on a fascinating journey through the 20th century, from women starting businesses to stave off poverty to the rise of NAWBO in 1975 as the unified voice of women entrepreneurs. Debra’s book, She’s the Boss: The Rise of Women’s Entrepreneurship Since World War II is available on Amazon here. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Paige Mecca, founder of Allegro Power in Buffalo, NY, believes meditation isn’t just personal—it’s a business strategy. By staying calm and centered, she leads with clarity and intuition while building a thriving renewable energy installation company. In this episode, Paige explains why solar energy is one of the smartest moves businesses and families can make today, offering rare predictability in a volatile energy market. She also shares how solar is tackling the global challenge of “energy poverty” through microgrids that power schools, clinics and small businesses in communities across Africa and Asia, and the inspiring work of her Solar Liberty Foundation, which has been advancing this mission for the past 18 years.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Elle Patout, NAWBO HQ’s Director of Advocacy, takes listeners behind the scenes in DC, where she hosted CEO Jen Earle and National Board Chair Megan Patton for a week of meetings with lawmakers. Together, they shared insights from NAWBO’s snap poll, highlighting the challenges members are facing nationwide: over 40% have experienced revenue declines, 60% of whom saw drops of 25% or more, and nearly half identified affordable healthcare as a top priority. Elle also breaks down key takeaways from meetings with Republican Senators on the Committee of Finance, covering tariffs, Medicare and more, as well as conversations with Casey Mulligan, Chief Counsel of the SBA Office of Advocacy. She explains how the Red Tape Hotline helps the SBA to hear the voice of today’s small businesses.Share business concerns and regulatory impediments by emailing the SBA’s Red Tape Hotline here. Share business challenges and triumphs with NAWBO here (scroll to the form at the bottom of the page).

Tiffany Meyer of The Heights Insurance Agency in Columbus, OH, calls herself an “annoying optimist” who believes the universe bends to those who dream big. But when it comes to health insurance, she knows firsthand how complex and costly it can be for small business owners. In this episode, Tiffany breaks down the Affordable Care Act and what it really meant for women, children, young adults and people with pre-existing conditions. She also explains what’s been impacted by the Marketplace Affordability and Integrity Rule being finalized with some provisions temporarily blocked or delayed, including automatic re-enrollment rules and income checks. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by health insurance (and who hasn’t?), Tiffany offers the clarity and optimism you need to navigate what’s next. For more details, visit https://www.healthcare.gov.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

From standing on a milk crate taking drive-through orders at age 10 to owning 10 McDonald’s franchises of her own, Jamie Straza’s journey is one of grit, growth and family legacy. This Austin, TX-based entrepreneur shares how her father opened his first restaurant in 1981, how she and her brother helped grow the family business to 34 locations and what it took to strike out on her own. Along the way, Jamie reflects on the challenges of being a woman in the business and the art of separating business from personal—a skill that’s been critical to her success as a second-generation McDonald’s franchise owner.Ready to turn your ambitions into opportunities? Learn how McDonald's franchise ownership can empower you to lead, grow, and aim for success on your own terms.CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE TODAYTo learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/

Jennifer Tamborski has a story that’s as heartwarming as it is inspiring. Based in St. Louis, MO, she’s a wife, mother (who married the neighbor she grew up with across the street) and a savvy digital marketing strategist passionate about helping solopreneurs succeed. In this episode, Jennifer opens up about how she built a six-figure agency, only to walk away when burnout hit. But it wasn’t the end—it was the beginning of a new chapter. After a life-changing conversation with her coach, Jennifer rediscovered her true passion: helping smaller entrepreneurs master digital marketing and take their businesses to the next level!To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/

Danielle Delaney Wallace has breaking news: Every entrepreneur should think like a journalist! And she knows what she’s talking about as a former TV news reporter turned storytelling-obsessed copywriter and video marketer in Montgomery, AL. Her advice? Stay curious. Question everything. Dig deeper. The secret to real business growth isn’t a wizard’s wand (if only!), but asking the right questions—the tough ones that uncover your customers’ true struggles and needs, industry trends and unexpected opportunities. Want to sharpen your competitive edge? Then it’s time to think like a journalist. Tune in!To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/

It’s a milestone moment: Our 50th episode in NAWBO’s 50th anniversary year. To celebrate, we’re joined by Megan Patton, NAWBO National Board Chair, and Deanna Novak, NAWBO Institute Board Chair, for a conversation about NAWBO’s past, present and future. Deanna shares her pride in carrying forward the legacy, while Megan reflects on the power of community. Together, they revisit defining moments like the passage of H.R. 5050 and look ahead to innovations on the horizon, from the Institute’s new Journeys program and AI bot to NAWBO’s ever-present voice on Capitol Hill.The NAWBO Institute’s 50th anniversary fundraising rally is underway! In honor of our 50th episode during our 50th year, help us keep the momentum strong. Donate Here

From one of the few women in oil and gas to a leader driving climate progress, Susan Waller’s career is nothing short of remarkable. The Houston-based executive director of Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future has worked on everything from natural gas pipelines to solar facilities to offshore wind projects. In this episode, Susan shares how hard work, collaboration and respect helped her break barriers, why she believes natural gas is the foundation for renewables and how listening first can bridge divides in a complex, often misunderstood industry. Oh, and she’s also a proud grandmother of six.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

True crime fan. Former Army military police officer. Married to an Army veteran. Trisha Mentzer has a fascinating background—but by day, she’s helping people navigate Social Security. With 87 million people already signed up for my Social Security accounts, those who haven’t yet are leaving money and crucial planning tools on the table. Trisha explains how to use it to track and file for benefits, how payouts are calculated and what it really means to claim at 62, 67 or 70. Whether retirement is around the corner or decades away, don’t miss this essential breakdown of your financial future!More helpful resources from the SSA: If You Are Self-Employed5 Things Every Woman Should Know About Social SecurityWhat Every Woman Should Know

What do dragons and data backups have in common? Power, strength—and maybe even a little magic. Ann Cloyd, NAWBO New York City and Circle program member, brings all of that and more to the table. As CEO of DeepTech, a trusted technology solutions provider supporting both Mac and Windows platforms, Ann shares what every business must have in place when it comes to IT: backups and cybersecurity. Tune in as Ann reveals why a good backup system changes everything, and how the K-E-Y to her company’s success lies in three simple words: Kindness, Expertise and Yearning to learn.Ann is a member of NAWBO’s Circle program for women business owners with $1M+ in annual revenue. Sound like your peers? Learn more here.

When she’s not keeping score at her kids’ sports games or getting lost in a good book, Leslie Schultz is helping people safeguard their financial future. As the managing member of Disability Insurance Services, LLC in Kansas City, MO, she knows that life happens—and being prepared is everything. With the average disability lasting four years and Social Security approving just 35 percent of claims, are you truly protected if you couldn’t work? Leslie busts common myths about disability insurance, breaks down coverage options and explains why income protection should be a top priority. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/

In this episode, Elle Patout—NAWBO’s Director of Advocacy and Public Relations—shares the extraordinary lengths NAWBO’s CEO and Board Chair go to each month to show up in person on Capitol Hill. From planes to trains to automobiles, they travel coast to coast to ensure the voices of women business owners are heard. Elle offers a behind-the-scenes look at their most recent trip, including what they shared, what they learned and how NAWBO continues to show lawmakers that we’re a constant, credible presence.This episode is part of the ongoing NAWBO Academy For Public Service™ series. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/

Sunitha Chandy, licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Artesian Collaborative in Chicago, IL, challenges the idiom we often hear as women and entrepreneurs. Instead of masking struggles and letting the pressure build, Sunitha explores how to direct your energy toward solving the root issues that stress you out. Tune in to discover a healthier, more empowering approach to life and business.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Ebony Whitson wouldn’t let a little thing like a high-speed car crash with the cake in the back ruin the dream wedding of one of her clients. This founder of a Wisconsin-based full-service event production company talks keeping her cool under pressure and getting seriously creative but also lessons learned in the process. These things (and more) have helped her smash her first five years as a business owner.To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Roslyn Rice, co-founder of DPI, LLC and past president of NAWBO South Florida, isn’t just an expert in business management, operations and HR—she’s also surrounded by twins! As an identical twin, married to a twin and daughter of a fraternal twin, Roslyn has mastered the art of balancing identities, priorities and change. In this episode, she shares her insights on navigating life’s biggest transitions, managing competing demands and embracing change with a positive, resilient mindset. To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org/

Diana Doukas knows what it means to lean into transformation. As Head of Economic Opportunity & Advocacy for US Policy at Meta, she’s at the forefront of how AI is shaping the way we connect, work and grow.In this episode, Diana breaks down how Meta and others are approaching AI innovation, the opportunities it’s opening for businesses and individuals alike and why this moment in tech is one we can all harness—on our own terms. Plus, she shares how she’s rediscovering her voice…literally.Ready to explore what’s possible with AI? To learn more about NAWBO, visit: https://nawbo.org

Terry Bradley Dunn knows the power of having—and using—your voice.As founder of Tai-Lynn HR Solutions, she set out to support startups and nonprofits with the HR services they often go without.As a longtime NAWBO member and current public policy chair of the Greater Raleigh chapter, she’s brought that same passion for advocacy from her college sorority days to the state and national stage on behalf of all women business owners.Now, as the 2025 recipient of NAWBO’s Gillian Rudd Award, Terry shares what advocacy means to her, why this recognition is personal and how she continues to champion others every step of the way. “We have a voice and deserve the right to be heard,” she says. To learn more about this NAWBO award and others, visit: https://nawbo.org/awards

Suzanne Pease has worn just about every hat in NAWBO—from chapter leader to national board president—and today, she’s considered NAWBO’s unofficial historian.A 37-year member and the 2025 recipient of the Susan Hager Award, Suzanne reflects on decades of service, leadership and impact. She shares how NAWBO shaped her journey, why she always stepped up when asked and how she found success by lifting others and then stepping aside.It’s a conversation full of wisdom, warmth and a deep love for a community that’s still changing the game for women business owners.To learn more about this NAWBO award and others, visit: https://nawbo.org/awards 

Lynda Bishop, VP of National Programs for the NAWBO Institute, believes success shouldn’t be isolating. That’s why she leads the Circle program—a powerful 12-month experience designed exclusively for women whose businesses generate $1 million or more in annual revenue.In this episode, Lynda shares how the Circle was created to connect and support the top 2% of women business owners who are often leading at levels where peer support is rare. She talks about what makes the Circle so impactful, what these high-achieving women need most and why community matters even more at the top. Plus, a fun fact: Lynda is one of those rare people who truly loves change.To explore NAWBO’s Circle and other Institute programs, visit: https://nawboinstitute.org

Aquila Mendez-Valdez didn’t initially envision herself as a business owner—but becoming a mom of two was the spark that lit her entrepreneurial fire. Today, as founder of Haute in Texas and Haute in Network Agencies, she leads a thriving PR and marketing firm and franchise dedicated to helping female founders build bold, beautiful brands that shine—online and off.Aquila, a NAWBO San Antonio member and finalist for the 2025 Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, sponsored by Bank of America, shares her journey from small-town farm life to powerhouse agency leader, how storytelling became her superpower and why motherhood was the unexpected catalyst for a career she loves.To learn more about this NAWBO award and others, visit: https://nawbo.org/awards 

Christine E.B. Howard didn’t just stumble into the innovation ecosystem—she built a business to support it. As founder of E.B. Howard Consulting and a NAWBO Buffalo Niagara member, Christine works with startups and support organizations to find funding and write and evaluate grants that bring breakthrough ideas to life.A finalist for the 2025 Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, sponsored by Bank of America, Christine shares how she turned her passion for funding innovation into a thriving consultancy, what excites her most about emerging tech and why seeing big visions become reality is the ultimate reward.To learn more about this NAWBO award and others, visit: https://nawbo.org/awards 

Dr. Allison Key never set out to build a business empire—she just wanted to practice medicine her way. But since opening 3:16 Healthcare in rural Georgia in 2017, she’s grown from 8 employees to 160 and now leads 12 thriving locations, offering everything from family practice and urgent care to infusions, medical spa services and a kids’ corner—and she’s bringing in speech therapy this summer. A NAWBO Virtual member and finalist for the 2025 Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, sponsored by Bank of America, Dr. Allison shares how she learned to lead, what keeps her grounded and why her story is still being written.To learn more about this NAWBO award and others, visit: https://nawbo.org/awards