Stories
We shine a spotlight on phenomenal women who embody resilience, strength, and excellence. Be inspired by their stories of triumph and perseverance.
Keep scrolling down to discover each story!
Angela D. Scott
- Please provide a brief description of your career.
I've always loved the power of storytelling and had dreams of becoming a world-renowned writer. I also knew I wanted to attend college, but I didn't want to go into debt or have my parents take on my student loans. My answer was to join the U.S. Navy and leverage G.I. Bill college benefits. I served eight years as a Religious Program Specialist, supporting chaplains, military members, and the civilian community. While earning a bachelor's degree in Honors English from California State University Northridge, I was hired as an intern at LA Parent, a magazine designed to empower families raising children in Southern California. After my internship, I was hired full-time as the Special Sections Editor. Following a brief break from print publishing, I decided to level up and earn certifications in digital publishing. I landed a job at Activision, a video game software publisher under Xbox Gaming and, a division of Microsoft. Activision is the publisher of video games such as Call of Duty, Crash Bandicoot, Sekiro, and Spyro the Dragon. I initially started as a Web Content Author, managing website content updates and localizations. Throughout the years, our team and tasks have expanded with me at the helm. I'm now a Senior Personalization and Content Manager tasked with managing localizations and content updates, conducting A/B tests, and performing tag management and analytics reporting.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
My company's job is to "Make Fun" for all ages by creating worlds and experiences driven by empowering narratives. I enjoy the collective passion shared between me and my colleagues in this effort to create various worlds of fun. Every voice is valued and we all share diverse perspectives in creating new worlds. The camaraderie I now experience is similar to my military experience. "This all for one" attitude is contagious. I enjoy witnessing my contributions bring delight and entertainment to various ages, abilities, and ethnicities.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
My gaming journey started when I was 8 as a beta tester for the Fairchild Channel F Series console. My stepdad, John Pennywell, was a trailblazer as one of the few Black electrical engineers at Fairchild Semiconductor. His brilliant colleague was the brainchild behind today's video games. Gerald "Jerry" Lawson developed the first home entertainment console system, the Fairchild Channel F Series console. Although my siblings and I were playtesters throughout elementary, middle, and high school, I never imagined working in the gaming industry.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Although the number of female gamers is nearly equal to their male counterparts, the gaming industry remains predominantly male. Post George Floyd, #metoo, and #BlackLivesMatter movements, changes are being made to disrupt inequities within the gaming industry. While I haven't encountered gender inequality, I know it exists in some capacity - much of it due in part to systemic barriers. I've experienced and seen improvements in the pay and promotion of women and gender-neutral individuals.
5.How have you used your voice to make an impact?
Even though my military obligation ended, I remain committed to my country, community, and company. I intentionally seek to create generational impact by incorporating initiatives and activations that provide employment pathways, while celebrating inclusivity. At Activision, I'm the Global Co-Chair of the Black Employee Network and serve as a member of employee network groups designed to cultivate belongingness. My dedication to at-promise youth and young adults has culminated in year-over-year internship hires and impactful mentorship programs that broadened opportunities for many.
Lauana Herbert
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
My career in healthcare spans over 15 years, starting as a physician in Brazil. I've since held diverse roles including Senior Healthcare Consultant at Optum Health, where I developed telemedicine policies, and Chief Ship Physician for Disney Cruise Line. I've also served in leadership positions such as Director of Risk and Value-Based Care at Essen Health Care in New York. My education includes an MD, an MBA from USC, and an MPH from Columbia University. Currently, I've ventured into entrepreneurship with Spanda Media, a business I founded to help small and medium-sized businesses improve their visibility on Google My Business. This new direction allows me to apply my strategic skills in a different sector while continuing to make a positive impact.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
What I enjoy most about my work is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives, whether in healthcare or business. Throughout my career in medicine and healthcare management, I've found great satisfaction in improving patient outcomes and enhancing healthcare delivery systems. Now, as the founder of Spanda Media, I love helping small and medium-sized businesses thrive by increasing their online visibility. The ability to solve complex problems, innovate, and see tangible results of my efforts is incredibly rewarding. I also greatly enjoy the continuous learning and adaptation required in both healthcare and digital marketing, as these fields are constantly evolving. Ultimately, the most fulfilling aspect of my work is knowing that I'm contributing to the success and well-being of others, whether they're patients, healthcare providers, or local business owners.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
My path to my current work was shaped by my humble beginnings in Brazil and a pivotal moment in 2022 when I received the Brazil Person of the Year award. This honor connected me with influential business owners and made me reflect on my journey. Coming from a modest background, I felt compelled to give back. I recognized that many small and medium-sized businesses struggle with online visibility. This realization led me to found Spanda Media, where we help these businesses improve their presence on Google My Business. It's my way of using my experiences and network to support others in achieving success, much like I was helped along my own path.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
As a woman in the medical and business fields, I have encountered instances of gender inequality throughout my career. These experiences are not unique to me but are unfortunately common for many women in professional settings. While I've been fortunate to work with many supportive colleagues and mentors, I've also faced situations where my ideas or contributions were undervalued or overlooked due to gender bias. However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and to create more inclusive environments wherever I work. I believe in addressing these issues constructively by promoting diversity, mentoring other women, and advocating for equal opportunities. My experiences have made me more aware of the importance of gender equality in the workplace and have motivated me to be part of the solution in my leadership roles.
5- How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I've used my voice to make an impact in three key ways. First, by actively participating in forums, seminars, and being part of panels, I've contributed to important discussions on healthcare and business issues. Second, as a mentor for MPH students at Columbia University, I've guided and empowered the next generation of public health professionals. Lastly, by founding my own company, Spanda Media, I've created opportunities to directly support small and medium-sized businesses in improving their online visibility. These roles have allowed me to influence industry conversations, shape future leaders, and directly impact local businesses, extending my reach beyond my immediate professional sphere.
Carla Ondrasik
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
Music Publishing was my first major career where I spent 20+ years working with songwriters and recording artists. My final title was V.P. of Creative Writer Development for E.M.I Music Publishing. My job was to place songs with the new and top recording artists of the day, either for new projects or with film and television. Along with staff writers I had an existing catalog of songs to work with, and I was also responsible for bringing in new songwriters and recording artists.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
I loved working with music and creative people. I was lucky enough to have excellent mentors and colleagues who were always very supportive of my efforts to succeed. I am a "people" person and really enjoyed the daily interaction with so many different types of people and music styles. I enjoyed the freedom, trust and belief in me of those I worked for. I loved that I got to travel to see artists perform, interact with our other offices across the country and mostly I enjoyed making a difference in the lives of my songwriters and artists because I had a hand at making their dreams come true and to further their careers. Even today, I love hearing one of the songs I placed with an artist when it comes up on the radio!
3. How did you get involved in your workforce?
Crazy story! And it just goes to show you that you never know where your life will lead you. I was attending a self-improvement workshop and I met a guy who had one of his songs on the radio. My boyfriend at the time was working full time during the day, but would come home to write songs, so I just decided at that moment that I would get one of my boyfriends songs on the radio! I researched how to do that, literally bought a book called, "The Songwriter's Market," made a few calls, drove up to Hollywood and met with the kind of people who were doing what I wanted to do. I just cold called big companies and offered to take music publisher's to lunch and ask them a few questions. I found that my enthusiasm and direct communication was helpful. Once I had a bit of knowledge of how things worked, I quit my full-time job and began waitressing at night so I could work in music during the day. I advertised for songs in a magazine and people would send me their songs from all over the country. I took a job as a secretary for a music publisher where I learned the business of publishing as-well-as created a great collection of contacts. From there, I got my first job with a small company, then bigger and bigger still, until my final position at E.M.I. I placed songs all over the world, and am responsible for the sales of millions of records including, Christina Aguilera,Mariah Carey, 'NSync, Earth, Wind and Fire, Huey Lewis, Brenda K. Starr, Barbara Streisand, Martina McBride, Triumph, just to name a few. I also signed unknown singer/songwriter John Ondrasik who performs under the moniker, Five For Fighting. We fell in love and have been married for 26 years and share two children together.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Never! I never felt like I was being treated inferior to my colleagues whether male or female. I've worked for both men and women and have found them to be fair in all regards. I was respected by my peers and never felt vulnerable to the kinds of things you hear about today. Part of that was because we were much "free er" in spirit and mind. We didn't obsess on every little word or gesture. There was an overall feeling of mutual respect infused with a lot of fun!
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
So glad you asked this question! I am constantly mentoring young songwriters/artists. I make myself available to those who seek overall guidance in the music business. I will be releasing a book on Post Hill Press, entitled, "Stop Trying, The Life Transforming Power Of Trying Less and Doing More!" My book will come out in early fall '2025 and is about the negative aspects of trying. How trying keeps us stuck and fools us into believing that we are doing. I wrote this book because I believe it is fundamental to "go for your dreams" whatever they may be, and not trying is a helpful tool to remember when you set out on your journey towards success. I am currently speaking, podcasting and using social media to spread my message.
You can follow me on Instagram: CarlaOndrasik or sign up on my website, carlaondrasik.com
Laura Conde
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
After my PhD, I began my career as an Assistant Professor at a French technical university and later transitioned to the role of Associate Professor at the University of South Brittany, where I taught Electrical Engineering and Computer Science for 15 years. My research focused on error-correcting codes for mobile and satellite communications, a field where I achieved significant breakthroughs. Due to my contributions, I was awarded a Fulbright Research Scholar grant, allowing me to spend a year as a Visiting Professor at UCLA.
During my time at UCLA, I joined the Laboratory for Robust Information Systems, where I extended my research on error-correcting codes to explore data storage in new mediums. This period marked the beginning of my fascination with the emerging field of molecular data storage, which has the potential to revolutionize how we think about information storage at a fundamental level.
As part of the Fulbright program, I also participated in an Entrepreneurship Seminar Week in Seattle, where I was introduced to the dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem of the region. This experience, combined with interacting with researchers and professors from around the world, ignited a deep interest in innovation and startups. Two years later, I pursued an MBA at the University of Southern California (USC) to further explore the intersection of technology and business.
After completing my MBA, I joined an MIT startup in Boston that was pioneering molecular data storage technology. However, due to family and geographical considerations, I made the decision to remain in Los Angeles, which led me to shift my focus towards new opportunities.
Today, I run my own consulting company, where I help businesses leverage the power of data and Generative AI to drive innovation and efficiency. My company, doralia.ai, specializes in offering AI solutions to businesses that seek high-quality consulting at a more accessible price point. I work with clients across various sectors, providing customized strategies for automating processes, enhancing data-driven decision-making, and integrating AI technologies to unlock new business potential.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is the ability to bridge cutting-edge technology with real-world business challenges. Every project is an opportunity to help businesses, large and small, unlock the power of data and AI to innovate and grow. I love working closely with clients to understand their needs, then designing tailored solutions that have a meaningful impact. Seeing how AI can automate tasks, optimize decision-making, and create new business opportunities is incredibly rewarding.
Additionally, I enjoy the constant learning that comes with this field. Technology, especially AI, is evolving so quickly that each project presents new opportunities to explore and implement the latest advancements. Being able to combine my background in research with my passion for entrepreneurship keeps my work dynamic and fulfilling. Finally, I love the flexibility of running my own company, where I can shape the direction of my business while maintaining a focus on projects that inspire me.
What I enjoyed most about being a professor and researcher was the opportunity to explore new ideas and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. As a researcher, the thrill of discovery—whether through developing new theories or solving complex problems—was incredibly satisfying. I loved diving deep into specialized topics like error-correcting codes and challenging the state of the art, first in digital data transmission and later in molecular data storage.
As a professor, I found great fulfillment in teaching graduate students and mentoring PhD students. I also valued the academic environment, where I could constantly exchange ideas with colleagues, collaborate on innovative research projects, and be part of a vibrant intellectual community. Balancing teaching and research allowed me to stay on the cutting edge of technology while also shaping the next generation of engineers and scientists. It was a perfect blend of intellectual challenge, creativity, and human connection.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
As I mentioned earlier, due to family constraints, I made the decision to create my own opportunities here in Los Angeles. While I initially faced challenges in finding a role that aligned with my technical background and career ambitions, I saw it as a chance to take control of my professional path. This led me to start my own consulting company, doralia.ai, where I could leverage my expertise in data, AI, and automation.
Although I’m not yet at the place I ultimately aspire to be, I view it as an ongoing process of growth and learning. Building a business from the ground up has given me the freedom to shape my work and the types of projects I take on, but it also requires continuous adaptation to meet market needs. I am passionate about helping businesses, particularly those who cannot afford big-name consulting firms, tap into the transformative potential of AI and modern analytics. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how much impact this technology can have when implemented effectively. My journey has been about embracing the challenges and creating something meaningful, not just for myself, but for the clients I serve.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Yes and no. I was fortunate to grow up in a family where my parents never made any distinction between my brother, my sisters, and me. We were all given the same opportunities, and their unwavering support and belief in our abilities were incredible. I grew up feeling that I could achieve anything with hard work and dedication, regardless of gender.
As a student in engineering and later as a professor in electrical engineering, I often found myself being the only woman in the room. Thankfully, my colleagues were always supportive, so this was never an issue for me. I felt that in France, women had already fought many battles for equality before my time, which allowed me to progress in my career without facing significant gender-related barriers in the workplace.
However, in my personal life, especially as a wife and mother, I’ve had to make sacrifices that impacted my career. Balancing family responsibilities with career aspirations is a challenge many women face, and in my case, it required difficult choices. I don’t like to generalize, but from my experience, it can be hard to find the right support system. I’ve observed that male ego and societal expectations often play a role in shaping dynamics at home.
Reflecting on my life, I realize that the limitations I’ve encountered have been more personal, often stemming from my relationships at home rather than my professional environment. While I’ve always been deeply committed to my career, there have been moments when family needs took precedence, and that’s where I felt more constrained—not by societal or workplace challenges, but by personal dynamics.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
Not nearly as much as I should have. I was raised in a traditional conservative family where the focus was on doing your best, but never complaining or speaking up. This upbringing instilled in me a strong work ethic, but also made it difficult to find my voice and advocate for myself in situations where I should have. As a result, I haven’t always used my voice as much as I should, but it’s something I’m actively working on as part of my mid- and long-term goals. I want to ensure that my personal and professional experiences can help younger women navigate their paths, make informed decisions, and hopefully avoid some of the challenges I’ve faced. Empowering the next generation of women to feel confident in their choices and minimize potential trauma is something I’m deeply passionate about, and I’m committed to contributing in a more meaningful way moving forward.
Jennifer Klawin
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I started my career in Publishing in New York City. Back then, print media was massive and digital was in its infancy. I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by women who took an interest in my career and mentored me as I was young, and navigating without a roadmap. So much they say is “who you know”, but that is not realistic for so many. I learned to also earn those relationships through hard work, showing up and building from the ground up. I was also curious about the “web” and capitalized on the fact that no one wanted to touch it. This afforded me the opportunity to be on the cutting edge of digital media. My bosses bosses suddenly were asking me about this new medium and I made myself relevant. I made the move from NYC to LA in 1999 and was determined to ride the .com wave. I joined Yahoo! in 2000, as the bubble burst had to ride that out for 7 years and learned a lot while I was there. My digital career led me to major companies including Facebook (now Meta), Tumblr, BuzzFeed and eventually to starting my own company digital media and production company, Emergent Media, which I run today.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
Hands down the people. This has always been first and foremost for me. Being surrounded by people who are dedicated, passionate and creative has always been a motivator for me. As long as I can continue to learn and grow and still be enjoying what I do - which is because of the people: peers, clients and the extended community. You spend a lot of time away from home and family and I wouldn’t if I didn’t enjoy who I work with and what I do.
3. How did you get involved in your workforce?
Interestingly, I kind of stumbled upon publishing. I entered the workforce (in 1995!) wanting to work at an ad agency. no one in my family had worked in advertising, but it was introduced to me after college and I just wanted to be a part of that “ Madison Avenue” culture. Funny enough, I learned that my dad, who spent 35 years working at inner city public schools, actually worked in research at Gray advertising before he got into teaching so perhaps it was in my DNA. I was interviewing at a lot of companies in New York City. At that time, you worked with a headhunter who sent you all around to interview. I had just graduated college, with no connections and just pounded the pavement as they say. I had interview after interview at agencies, research companies and magazine companies. I was thrilled when I was offered a sales assistant job at Lane communications who owned working women working mother Ms. Magazine, which was run by the Feminist icon Gloria Steinem. I struck gold and knew it!
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Yes absolutely. My career continued as an individual contributor and I was ready for the next phase. I had two young daughters, and was just back to work from maternity leave number two when a promotion presented itself to me. I truly felt qualified and wanted this job. Unfortunately, as a new mom I wasn’t even considered. I was also grossly underpaid compared to my male counterparts. There are many other times I felt left out of things being a female. However, I like to use that as an opportunity and not dwell on it. Women are powerful and smart and seek connections. You can use this as an opportunity to build relationships with other women and accomplish so much more.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
This is an interesting question. I was on the ground floor of building connections and bringing women together. Whether that was organized or happened more organically it’s just part of who I am. I love mentoring and being able to share career experiences and learning which can be beneficial to others. I think it’s important and the responsibility that comes with experience to “ pay it forward”. I think of the mentorship I got early on in my career and how grateful I was for it. I launched our women’s group spearheading our women’s networking and mentoring group at BuzzFeed. My company now is woman owned and is majority women. Through our editorial channels, we feature women across the world, doing amazing things and will continue to be a platform and voice. I’m grateful I have this opportunity and will continue to be an advocate.
Julia Plotts
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I started my career working on the legislative staff for the US House Committee on Banking and Financial Services. Then I transitioned to working as a financial services industry lobbyist for Davis Polk. I decided to pursue an MBA in finance and strategy and following that worked as an investment banker at BofA Securities. I transitioned to academia 22 years ago and have been working as a finance Professor at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
Being able to meet so many interesting students from all over the world and sharing my passion for financial analysis and valuation and helping them to think like an investor. I also enjoy connecting my current students with alums and others to help them find success in their careers. I have been building towards a current initiative that I am starting that is discussed in this article.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
Tom Gilligan was my economics Professor during my MBA at USC. I ended up taking several courses with him and performed directed research for him. We stayed in touch during my career and he encouraged me to consider teaching. He went on to serve as dean of the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin and then the Tad and Dianne Taube Director of the Hoover Institution. He was a great mentor. He believed in me and gave me a shot even though I had a non-traditional background for academia.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
At one point in my career I faced challenges with the gender pay gap. There were other silly moments where I remember being asked questions that I doubted my male colleagues were asked. For example, when my children were very young, one student asked me where my kids were when I was at work. There were also a few times at work when I raised my hand to take on new positions that involved international travel. I remember hearing from a few people that they were surprised that I would want to do that and leave my kids to travel to another country. I believe that we have made great progress in this area and I do not see as many issues with gender inequality as I did 20-30 years ago. In 2018 USC Marshall’s MBA program was the first top-20 business school to reach gender parity and then in 2021 USC Marshall’s undergraduate program reached gender parity. I am proud of the fact that my finance classes are much more balanced and diverse than they were 10-20 years ago.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I view myself as an advocate for both my students and colleagues. I believe in fostering a culture of mentorship which also involves advocating for others to ensure they have opportunities to succeed.
Here is a podcast I did called “Banking on Girls.” In case that is of interest or related to your topic.
Annie Carlson
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I started my career working in sports marketing. My first job out of college was working as a coordinator on the sponsorship marketing team for the Los Angeles Kings hockey team. After a few years there I moved into a management role on the sponsorship marketing team for the Los Angeles Dodgers where I worked for 5 years. One of my clients there was Coca-Cola North America, so after a career in sports, I moved into a corporate marketing role with Coca-Cola after having made some connections there that enabled me to get a role with the company. I spent the next 16 years of my career in various marketing, account management and sales roles at Coca-Cola, eventually leaving that company as the Director of Customer Marketing for the west zone. I left Coca-Cola in 2020 and I now work as the group manager of Integrated Product Strategy for Starbucks Coffee Company on their licensed stores business
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
I love working for brands that consumers are passionate about. In all my jobs over the past 30 years, I have been lucky to work for teams or companies that consumers love, or at least have a strong opinion about and typically want to engage in conversation. I have also loved making some fantastic connections throughout the years and being able to follow strong managers to different companies. I love being able to mentor women in their carer journeys as well, using the skills I have learned while working.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
I was recruited to Starbucks after 16 years with Coca-Cola. They were looking for someone with my skillset and someone who had a deep knowledge of the beverage industry. I made this career move during Covid and for the first time in my career, I am working remotely. Starbucks allows me to live in San Diego while reporting into their headquarters in Seattle.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I have worked in some very male dominated industries and have had to use my voice to be successful in those industries. Being assertive and working harder than anyone else in the room has been helped me grow my career. I have been lucky to work for companies that have supported me in volunteer work outside of the office as well. With this support, I have been able to use my voice to make an impact with various non-profits. I have served on the board for the San Diego Taxpayers Association, the San Diego Food Bank, Mini Mermaid Running Club, and have been a volunteer grant writer where I helped raise funds for Warrior Foundation-Freedom Station which helps injured and ill warriors. Currently I spend much of my time volunteering as a mentor and leader with the Promies2Kids Women’s Leadership Development group, assisting former foster youth in building practical career skills. I also spend quite a bit of time volunteering for Second Chance Dog Rescue in San Diego, helping market this nonprofit to raise funds, awareness, and bring in new fosters for rescue dogs. My 30 years of work has built my confidence in using my voice to make an impact not only in the for profit sector, but also as a volunteer in the non-profit sector.
Julie Michael
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
As the CEO of Team One, I’m responsible for the success of our company — a talented group of 450 creators, producers, strategists, and marketers. We are a full-service communications agency that provides a range of communications support and creativity to our ambitious clients. Specializing in premium brands, our client roster includes Lexus, KBHome, Cathay-Pacific, The Ritz-Carlton, TheRealReal, Barclays, and many other companies that aim to grow their business with next-gen affluents.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
My favorite part of the job is working at the intersection of creativity and commerce. I’m a business person and entrepreneur at heart, so my orientation is toward the more operational aspects of running a business. But my heart loves to be around creative people and producers who help us launch remarkable ideas into the world. I love being in the “business of creativity.”
3. How did you get involved in your workforce?
I knew from 7th grade onward that I wanted to work in an advertising agency. So my studies always followed this path. In college, I was a business major with a journalism minor. And once I graduated, I applied to every ad agency I could find in the “Book of Lists” put out by each city’s Chamber of Commerce. The industry has changed since I first entered it, as the work has shifted toward media planning, building websites, creating influencer and social media programs, with more robust analytics efforts across all - proving our work works.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
I suppose I have faced some challenges relating to gender equality over the years - maybe some inadvertent comments made in meetings or a raise that arrived too late — but nothing I felt was overt or intentional. I feel fortunate that our industry is less traditional than most, as it embraces people and talent from all walks of life. We believe that our work and ideas get BETTER when we have more unique viewpoints at the table. This includes people of all gender identifications, ethnic/race backgrounds, ages, geographies, and education. I work diligently to make sure everybody in our company upholds this belief.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
Impact can be hard to measure, and I can only hope that I’ve had both micro and macro impacts. In meetings, I never let the women sit in the back row or around the outside of the room, letting them know, “You need to get the seat here at the table. We want to be sure to hear your voice.” I also work in tandem with our HR team to make sure that our salaries are commensurate across men and women doing similar roles. We work to make sure all employees receive presentation and leadership training, mentorship, and exposure for open roles and internal promotions. We’re not perfect, but always striving to do more to create an environment of equity and inclusion for ALL our employees.
Kelley McKendry
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I am the owner of August Point Productions, a Film and Television production company where we develop projects with writers and work to take original stories and concepts from page to the screen. We focus on strong, character-driven stories and tell them through film, both scripted and unscripted (documentary).
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
Working in film and TV development allows me to work with so many intriguing and diverse types of people, I get to read a variety of thought-provoking stories and am pitched all kinds of ideas - from pop culture to history to very personal stories. I love collaborating with writers, directors, executives and studios. Having my own company affords me the flexibility to work on projects I am passionate about, say no to the things I don’t want to focus on and allows me to make my own hours and be there for my family as well.
3. How did you get involved in your workforce?
I always knew I wanted a career that combined my creativity combined with business - I didn’t realize right away that would be the job of a creative producer. After studying Communications and English at Villanova University, I learned every facet of the business I could - by day I worked at an ad agency that did marketing for films and at nights I worked at a local bookstore to stay up on the trending books and the most popular authors. Soon after, I worked for a movie producer and gained knowledge of the international distribution and licensing of films. I then became a “floater” on the FOX studio lot where I worked in every different department - production, development and legal for both TV and Film. During the evenings I took a screenwriting class to truly appreciate and understand the craft. (It’s hard to give notes if you’ve never tried to write a script yourself!) and I also took Improv and “Acting for the Camera” to experience what both the actor and director go through. I assumed a role at Disney and ESPN Media Networks as an executive in sales and marketing and negotiated deals for all of the Disney-owned networks. While I was raising my young kids, I applied to the UCLA Producers Program at the School of Theater, Film and Television where I was able to to collaborate with writers and directors on films and TV series and had amazing industry professors who taught development, financing, distribution and strategy. Simultaneously I was obtaining rights to books and scripts that I could adapt into film and TV. That has led me to start my own company, August Point Productions where I am now able to develop stories that I love and am passionate about.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Absolutely. In three of my positions I was faced with blatant sexual harassment. In the first instance, my co-worker was very verbally inappropriate and I was lucky to have senior management who took notice and advocated for me. I was quite young and just starting out so I’m not sure I would have had the confidence to say something. I was incredibly appreciative of the executive who responded and saw the situation and how dangerous it could become.. They swiftly let him go and honestly, I was quite scared of the repercussions that may take place.
For a few years I worked at the American Stock Exchange in New York. In this position I worked in a sea of men who would get into physical altercations over trades and scream profanities at me. Often I was chastised, made to feel less than and spoken down to in a sexual manner.
In another role I had a co-worker walk into my office to speak with me about a report. He put his hands on my shoulders and as I stood up in shock, he ran them down the rest of my body. I walked straight into my boss's office and told her. The HR team gave him a warning and he came to apologize and said “I’m trying” as in, “I’m trying not to touch you at work”. This time I wasn’t so scared. I was mad.
I have certainly watched as male co-workers were promoted over my female colleague and me, when they weren’t “perfect” at their job. However, the bar was much higher for the women I worked with. We had to be 100% effective in the role we had before being considered for promotion.
In the film and TV industries there are “first-look deals” with studios. That means that the studios finance certain producers' overhead and in return want to have the first opportunity to be involved in their film or TV show. When I was starting out there were several first-look deals at every major studio and there was only one or two women who had a deal with any of them. That meant the entire slate of projects and all of the producers' voices were male, except for two. That has changed (somewhat) but we still have work to do!
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I try to make an impact every opportunity I get. I have been involved with Women in Film and love talking with younger women about their careers and hopes and dreams. That includes balancing their lives with their families, children or other passions.
One of my golden rules for young women is to avoid using the work “just”. So many times women will say “I just wanted to ask you…” or I “just thought”. We didn’t “just” do anything. Women should ask for what they want and not be afraid to do so, don’t act like you don’t deserve to ask a question or think you’re bothering anyone. I removed that word from my vocabulary and it was actually life-changing.
I’m also a big advocate for being a life-learner and "finding your people". So many times we think we are at a dead end or gain a complex because of the people we surround ourselves with. Be open to widening your circle. Every week I aim to reach out to twenty new people I’ve never met - folks who can be additive to my business or knowledge surrounding it. I look to connect with folks who will inspire me and perhaps teach me something new. I’m a Linkedin junkee - don’t be afraid to connect with people! We often hear it takes 10,000 hours to be an expert in something. I believe, in the film and TV business it takes 10,000 contacts to make things happen!
Katie Price
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I started my career working in finance, first at J.P. Morgan as an investment banker and then at Goldman Sachs as an equity research analyst. I've known I wanted to run businesses since I was a teenager, so I transitioned to an operating role from there helping build out a new division at Ipreo, a fintech start up. Ipreo was acquired and I was asked to be Chief of Staff to manage our commercial integration into IHS Markit, our new parent company, and a year later was asked to be Chief Operating Officer for a business line and subsequently a division. When IHS Markit then merged with S&P Global in early 2022, I was asked to change roles to build out the corporate Venture program as Head of Ventures investing in strategic partners to advance innovation in the S&P Global ecosystem. I am responsible for managing our existing portfolio of investments and executing new deals in partnership with my commercial colleagues.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
I love working with my management teams, as either a Board member or more informal advisor, helping them think through their strategic implementation and how to keep growing their businesses and overcome challenges.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
I have had a great career of internal mobility opportunities, including my current role. I had worked previously with senior management at the firm, including my now-boss Sally Moore (SVP of Strategy, Partnerships and Corporate Development), and when our executive team was looking to build out the new program they asked me to come in and lead the effort.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
I have always been highly ambitious, knowing that I will be a CEO when I "grow up" since I was a teen and highlighting that when I professionally introduce myself. I've had many folks react in surprise to my clarity of vision and reach for a role that is not typically held by women, including comments like "wow you don't hear that from a woman". Thankfully I have found great sponsors and mentors who are strongly supportive of getting me there and I continue to build my career with that goal in mind.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I actively look to support our female early career development plans, spending time with our interns and post-college joiners to learn more about their goals and help them make a game plan for how to achieve it.
Kiki Burger
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
For over 15 years I have worked in communications and public relations in a variety of sectors including nonprofit, corporate, social good, and the government affairs sectors. I got my start as a reporter in Washington, DC where I covered the intersection between Hollywood and politics. I particularly love working in cultivating talent partnerships, notably within the social good and nonprofit realms. I got my masters at the School of Media and Public Affairs at The George Washington University and a B.A. in political science from UC Berkeley.
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
Identifying the right celebrities to partner with on specific causes. Finding what is an issue close to their heart, usually because it’s something they or someone in their family was impacted by, and helping them to use their platform for good.
3. How did you get involved in your workforce?
As an intern! I saw a job posting while I was getting my masters to help the two columnists at the Washington Examiner newspaper. That internship turned into a full time job and then also led me to Politico.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Yes, but I didn’t notice it fully until I had a baby. I returned to a job after having my first and was fired on my second day back.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I’ve been able to work with incredible nonprofits and events so working behind the scenes on those has allowed me to make an impact in my own way.
Elizabeth Giersbrook
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I work in Advertising as an agency producer. Here is my website
https://www.elizabethgiersbrook.com
with my bio..
https://www.elizabethgiersbrook.com/about
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
I love the creative side of my work matching the idea/storyboard with the right team consisting of a director, editor, music company and visual effect house. It's always different and unique for each client and product and every 3 months I work with a new team of people that are always interesting and passionate about what they do! Sometimes it's comedy or moody car directors and docustyle so it's always something to learn too.
3. How did you get involved in your current work?
I got involved by starting at the bottom as a receptionist at an advertising agency in NYC making very little money. Then I quit to work for free as an intern at a small advertising shop that did tons of TV ads for Revlon in NYC and I worked part time as a waitress at night and at Bloomingdales. If you can make it there you can make it anywhere!
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
I have faced gender inequality probably but was indifferent to it since I was doing what I loved, so I didn't care or notice much. I was part of a boys club but was always treated respectfully since I was working 12hrs days and cared about the work I was doing just as much as the guys I was working with. I also got to work with so many smart, genius women and that is where I did some of my best work.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
There are women in my position that have taken down creative leaders that have never worked again in the business and I applaud them for their bravery for paving the way for more respect for ALL women in the workforce, especially in Advertising.
Sonja Orquiola
1. Please provide a brief description of your career.
I am the Senior Director of Operations for a real estate investment company, and I wear many different hats within the organization! As the Director of Operations, I ensure that the business operates at the most optimal efficiency across the country. In the simplest of terms, I try to make life as easy as possible for our field personnel. I am also part of the acquisition team!
2. What do you most enjoy about your job?
What I enjoy most about my career is that every day is different! Every day is like a big puzzle, and I get to figure out a way to make it all work!
3. How did you get involved in your workforce?
Actually, I accidentally landed in this field. I started out as a part-time assistant and worked my way up to where I am today. I have done almost every job here which gives me a great understanding of what the needs of my personnel are. This is another reason why I love what I do! The company has given me the opportunity to make my role my own and pave my own way.
4. Have you ever faced issues/challenges relating to gender inequality?
Early on there were times when I faced challenges relating to gender inequality. When I was working in the field with contractors, new contractors would not take me seriously because I was a woman. I was also the manager in charge of the projects, and I would be the one to instruct them how we wanted to execute. Consequently, it was meant with resistance, and/or I would even get ‘are you sure you want to do it that way’, insinuating that I did not know what I was talking about or how to do a man’s job.
5. How have you used your voice to make an impact?
I have used my voice to make an impact. In the situations I mentioned above, it just took time to build a partnership with them and to show that even though I am a woman I have a clear understanding of the job at hand. I would also call them out on their assumptions of me. I am a vocal person and consistently try to empower women to achieve their goals and not be intimidated to go after what they want.
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