In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Melissa Durrell, the CEO and Chief Strategist of Durrell Communications, and a partner with Roseview Global Incubator. Melissa's diverse background includes successful careers in politics, award-winning Canadian broadcast journalism, and her current work with international entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow their companies in Canada.Join us as Melissa shares invaluable insights on the value of listening and the power of storytelling, whether it's within the confines of a Canadian boardroom or on a global stage in China. Together, we delve into the unique challenges that women leaders encounter, especially during their thirties and forties, which are pivotal stages in their professional journeys.Our conversation spans a wide range of compelling topics, including Melissa's experiences in the communications field, her endeavours with international entrepreneurs, reflections on democracy, perspectives on the current state of housing, and even her role as a pitching coach for Team Canada. This episode offers something for everyone, so be sure to tune in for an enriching and thought-provoking discussion.Connect with MelissaLinkedInWebsiteDuring our conversation, we talk about some past episodes. Please find the links here:Rose GreensidesSherry Shannon-VanstoneResources Profound ImpactWomen’s Municipal Campaign SchoolCommunitechRoseview Global IncubatorThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

In today's episode, we talk with Rose Greensides, the Executive Director at Social Venture Partners (SVP). SVP is a unique partnership that brings together the time, talent, and funding from the community to support the nonprofit sector. Rose shares some inspiring stories about how SVP has helped several local organizations in the Waterloo Region. You'll be amazed at what SVP has been able to achieve through its community-driven approach.In addition to discussing SVP's work, we also delve into the concept of imposter syndrome and why being comfortable with being uncomfortable is vital. Rose shares her experiences as both a mentor and mentee, and we explore the richness of reciprocal mentorship and the valuable lessons that every relationship teaches.We also take a closer look at some of the larger issues facing Waterloo Region today, including the decline in volunteerism, housing and food insecurity. By the end of the episode, you'll find yourself considering how your own talents could contribute to Social Venture Partners' mission. Connect with Rose:WebsiteLinkedInDuring our conversation, we talk about some past episodes. Please find the links here:Jane KlugmanGinny DybenkoLisa BraggTracy VankelsbeekResources:Social Venture PartnersSexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo RegionBereaved Families of Ontario (BFO) – Midwestern RegionThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

On today's episode, we talk with Sherry Shannon VanStone, a trailblazing, successful serial entrepreneur.  Sherry is currently the founder of Profound Impact and the co-founder of Women Funding Women. Sherry's career started with her being an accomplished code breaker, which she explains is just as cool as it sounds. She shares her insights and experiences on leading startups to successful exits, building a strong company culture, and the crucial process of finding a company's 'Why'. Our conversation delves into the rapidly changing world of AI and Sherry's thoughts on its impact on businesses, as well as her thoughts on the future of AI and education. Sherry also talks about her experiences with mentorship, both as a mentee and a mentor, and how it has shaped her career.Finally, we discuss Sherry's latest venture, Women Funding Women, a collective working to address the funding gap faced by women-led ventures. Connect with SherryLinkedInResourcesProfound ImpactWomen Funding WomenFind Your WhyThe 51Perimeter InstituteUniversity of WaterlooThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

On today's episode, we talk with Deborah MacLatchy, President and Vice-Chancellor of Wilfrid Laurier University. She is also a zoologist who is passionate about science and is still actively involved in research and mentoring students across Canada.We discuss the importance of nurturing young girls' interest in science during their high school years, setting the stage for further exploration in university. Deb shares insights into the success of the Laurier Center for Women in Science and addresses the barriers that women still face in attaining leadership roles in academic institutions. Deb's passion extends beyond academia. She's also deeply committed to promoting equity in sports, particularly at the USport level. We talk about how to lead in different roles, and Deb offers her advice for the next generation of women leaders.Connect with DebLinkedInOther ResourcesWilfrid Laurier UniversityLaurier Centre for Women in ScienceCanada University Board The MuseumThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

On today's episode, we talk with Tracy Van Kalsbeek. Tracy is an accomplished Executive Director, a passionate volunteer, and a valued community builder. Her leadership journey is a treasure trove of inspiration and wisdom for aspiring leaders.Tracy takes us through her remarkable career trajectory, from her formative cadet days to her influential tenure at Manulife, her time at the Uptown Waterloo Business Improvement Area, and finally, KW Oktoberfest. She shares her insights on career navigation, the importance of mentorship, and overcoming challenges with grit and adaptability.Tracy gives us a glimpse into the dynamic evolution of Oktoberfest. Her enthusiasm is infectious as she details the festival's strategic pivot towards becoming Canada's quintessential Fall Festival. From celebrating age-old traditions to integrating fresh, inclusive activities like Kidtoberfest and Dogtoberfest, Tracy's vision is a kaleidoscope of innovation and heritage.Don't wait until October to get involved. The Women of the Year nominations are open until March 31, 2024. The awards will be held on May 23, 2024!Connect with TracyTracy also mentioned Ginny Dybenko and Jane Klugman, who have been part of her personal and professional journey. Both Ginny and Jane have been guests on the podcast, and you can listen to their episodes here:Luminary Leadership with Ginny DybenkoLessons In Leadership: Showing Up and Asking Questions with Jane KlugmanOther ResourcesKW OktoberfestWomen of the Year Awards and NominationsUptown Waterloo BIAJunior Achievement Cambridge Chamber of CommerceWaterloo Region Community FoundationThe Royal Highland Fusiliers of CanadaThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Are you ready to learn how to talk about your work using purposeful self-promotion?On today’s episode, we welcome Lisa Bragg, author of Bragging Rights: How to Talk about Your Work Using Purposeful Self-Promotion. We had so much to talk about that we divided our conversation into two episodes. In part two, Lisa and I continue our conversation about imposter experience. We explore ideas from Lisa's book including the terms double bind, positional and professional influence, the Flip test, Tall Poppy syndrome and how ot start a Bragg book.If you want to learn how to brag, this is a great place to start. Connect with LisaWebsiteLinkedInInstagramResourcesTEDWomen 2023MediaFaceKristen Pressner - The Flip TestDr. Rumeet Billan - Tall Poppy SyndromeCharlie Bit My FingerThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Are you tired of feeling like your hard work and achievements go unnoticed? Do you struggle with self-promotion and feel like you're not being seen or heard in your industry? On today's episode, we talk with  Lisa Bragg, author of the book Bragging Rights: How to Talk about Your Work Using Purposeful Self-Promotion. Lisa is a renowned speaker, advisor, and professional mentor who helps high-achievers to share their value with the world. We had so much to talk about that we divided our conversation into two episodes. In Part One we talk about Lisa's experience writing the book, the true definition of bragging and we learn what a Hidden Gem is.If you want to learn how to brag, this is a great place to startConnect with LisaWebsiteLinkedInInstagramResourcesTEDWomen 2023MediaFaceKristen Pressner - The Flip TestDr. Rumeet Billan - Tall Poppy Syndrome Charlie Bit My FingerThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Have you ever considered how a strong support network can catapult your career to new heights?Patricia Polischuk, Vice President, Business Development with the Organizational & Talent Development practice at B. Riley Farber joins us to unravel the secrets of career empowerment and the transformative power of networking.She shares her insights and advice on career transition, leadership, and organizational culture. We also discuss the importance of curiosity, resiliency and owning one's career.Our dialogue takes a heartfelt turn as we reflect on the joy found in connecting people and fostering a workplace culture that's not only productive but also inclusive and supportive. Paricia highlights the importance of networking, and she imparts strategies for building and maintaining relationships and how to engage your network when you are in a career transition. Connect with PatriciaLinkedInWebsiteResourcesB. Riley FarberWilfrid Laurier UniversityConestoga CollegeThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

In this episode, we welcome Melanie Rodriguez, Director of Corporate Partnerships with the Toronto Public Library Foundation. Melanie shares insights from her experience with the IWF Fellowship and emphasizes the importance of the continuous pursuit of learning and seizing opportunities for career pivots. We also discuss the importance of mentorship and the challenges facing female leaders today. Melanie talks about her passion for education and literacy and ensuring children have access to quality education. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the power of education and the impact of strategic partnerships in creating equitable access to opportunity.Connect with Melanie.LinkedInResourcesToronto Public Library IWF FellowshipThe Judy ProjectInstitute of Southern Georgian BayHoot ReadingThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

In this episode, we welcome Rosa Lupo. Rosa is a partner based in the Waterloo office of the Corporate Commercial Group with Gowling WLG, a global law firm. Her specialties include commercial real estate law both locally and globally. Rosa shares with us the story of how watching the show L.A. Law influenced her decision to become a lawyer. We discuss the importance of using different leadership styles depending on the situation, and Rosa shares her views on mentorship and the importance of letting go of stereotypes and guilt in your career journey.We explore Rosa’s criteria for sitting on boards and her involvement in the Enova power merger as the Chair of Enova Energy Corporation, Enova Poer’s parent company.Join us as we learn from Rosa's vast experience and insights on leadership, mentorship, and community involvement.Connect with Rosa.WebsiteLinkedInResourcesGowling WLGUniversity of WindsorEnova PowerL.A. LawThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing Mandy Bujold, a Canadian boxer who has made a name for herself on the international stage. From her humble beginnings in Kitchener, Ontario, to her rise to fame as a two-time Pan American Games gold medalist, Mandy's story is one of perseverance and determination.During the episode, Mandy shared her journey to becoming a professional boxer, which included overcoming numerous obstacles such as funding challenges and sexist attitudes within the sport. She also spoke about her experiences competing at the highest level and what it takes to be successful in such a demanding and physical sport.Mandy is not only an accomplished athlete but also a dedicated mother and community advocate. She discussed how she balances her roles as a boxer and a mother and the importance of giving back to her community through her involvement with various charities and organizations.Overall, our conversation with Mandy was inspiring and informative. She is a true role model for aspiring athletes and anyone who wants to achieve their dreams through hard work and determination. To learn more about Mandy and her journey, check out our latest episode.Connect with MandyWebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeResourcesChampions for CharityMandy Bujold wins fight to compete in Tokyo OlympicsGrand Valley Construction AssociationThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

On today’s episode we welcome Martha Breithaupt. We talk about innovation, the dangers of the ‘broken rung’ as an obstacle women face on the path to senior leadership, the state of science, Martha’s newest venture, which is devoted to innovation in both the science and business sectors and R&D tax credits, which are more interesting than you might think! We also talk about the importance of mentorship. Martha shares her personal journey of actively seeking mentors throughout her career and how building a diverse network and actively seeking guidance from experienced professionals can significantly enhance a leader's growth trajectory. Martha is an innovator and non-dilutive funding expert with over two decades of experience as a thought leader, speaker, board member, and tax practitioner. Connect with MarthaLinkedInResourcesState of ScienceProfound ImpactThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Welcome to today's episode! We are thrilled to have Tricia Mumby as our guest. Tricia is an accomplished entrepreneur, co-founder of Mabel's Labels, and guiding force in the business world. During our conversation, Tricia shared her passion for buying URLs, her current interest in Bleisure travel, and her business book club. We also get an exclusive look behind the scenes of Mabel's Labels, where Tricia reveals the story of its genesis, growth, and eventual acquisition by Avery, the world's largest printing company. Since then, Tricia hasn’t slowed down, and we talk about what she’s up to now, including her work as a core mentor at the Accelerator Centre in Waterloo, where she advises and guides start-ups as they work to build and grow their own businesses.Thank you for joining us today, and we hope you enjoy this insightful conversation with Tricia Mumby.Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy:Tricia talks about Ginny’s involvement and contribution to her business book club. Learn more about Ginny’s story in this episode:Luminary Leadership with Ginny DybenkoVoices of Leadership: Insights and Inspirations from Women LeadersTriaica mentions Jane as she was the person who introduced Tricia to IWF. Learn more about Jane in this episode: Lessons In Leadership: Showing Up and Asking Questions with Jane KlugmanVoices of Leadership: Insights and Inspirations from Women LeadersResources:Mable’s LabelsAccelerator CentreInnovation GuelphLimitless Expanded Edition: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life, by Jim KwikThank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Today we welcome  Jane Klugman to the podcast. Jane is an amazing leader, whose career has taken her through entrepreneurship, real estate, and business development. Jane is also the Honourary Colonel for the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada, making her the first woman in the history of the Regiment to hold this esteemed position.Join us as Jane takes us on a journey from her first job at a cottage resort at the age of 11 to her current role in commercial real estate. Discover the lessons learned during her early days in business development at the City of Kitchener, her entrepreneurial endeavours, and the unique path that led her to where she is today.Connect with Jane:LinkedInAvison Young Real EstateHere are some highlights from our conversation and where you can find them in this episode.1:27 - Jane and IWFEver wondered how Jane got involved with the IWF? Hint: Ginny Dybenko.Learn about Jane's role as the President of the Waterloo Chapter and hear stories from behind the scenes of the recent Canada Connects Conference.5:46 - Women on BoardsHear about Jane’s work on boards and how she strives to find opportunities that align with her passions.We discuss the current state of women on boards.9:49 - Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada  Jane shares her extraordinary connection with the Royal Highland Fusiliers and her groundbreaking appointment as Honourary Colonel. We talk about her passion for the role and how she became involved with the Regiment.23:42 - Career JourneyWe uncover the lessons, laughter, and leadership that have shaped Jane’s multifaceted career; from her youthful days at the cottage resort to becoming the youngest Director of Business Development in Kitchener, then moving up to VP of Operations at Communitech and later, Director of Business Development at Deloitte, to her real estate career with Avison Young.Hear about Jane’s experience at FU Nights and the lessons she learned from her entrepreneurial venture. 34:39 - Lessons in LeadershipJane shares her excitement for the current state of women's leadership and emphasizes the importance of diversity on boards. Discover Jane's vision for the future of women's leadership and why asking questions and rocking the boat is essential.Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Voices of Leadership. On today’s episode, we welcome Ginny Dybenko, a serial high achiever who has recently retired, for the fourth time. We talk about topics such as the International Women's Forum (IWF), leadership styles, our fondness for Amazon ordering and our perpetual race against GPS.Ginny recounts her experiences through her various careers, from the corporate world to academia. Her stories are filled with laughter, eye-rolling moments, and invaluable lessons.Connect with Ginny:LinkedInInstagramFacebookTikTokHere are some highlights from our conversation and where you can find them in this episode. 2:01 - Ginny and IWFGinny's journey with IWF started in Toronto but took an interesting twist when she moved to Waterloo.Discover why the "no guilt" philosophy is an important part of IWF culture and why it matters.Learn about Ginny's love for conferences as she shares her favourite anecdotes from these empowering events.12:52 Four RetirementsHear how Ginny learned the art of adapting her leadership style throughout her various careers, spanning corporate, academia, and entrepreneurship.29:15- Mind PalacesListen to Ginny's take on the influence of technology on our brains and discover her secrets to keeping your brain healthy and growing, even in your later years.One resource she recommends is Limitless by Jim Kwik a guide to upgrading your brain and unlocking your exceptional life.38:21 - What's Next for Women in LeadershipGinny reflects on the growth of women’s leadership she has witnessed over the years and shares her hopes and aspirations for the next generation of women leaders.Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram

Leadership isn't just about titles – it's about making a lasting impact.Welcome to 'Voices of Leadership', the podcast that shines a spotlight on the remarkable women of the International Women’s Forum,  who are reshaping industries, defying norms, and being instigators of change.Each episode is a candid conversation with women leaders from across a variety of industries and sectors. As we delve into their stories, our guests will share their insights, wisdom and experiences as they recount their successes, pivotal moments that have defined their careers, their thoughts on leadership and so much more. But it's not just about triumphs; we're also here to discuss the challenges that have tested them and the strategies they've employed to overcome them. Through these conversations, we aim to ignite a fire of inspiration within you. Whether you're a budding leader, a seasoned executive, or simply someone with a passion for growth. The IWF is a global network of over 8,000 leaders from over 30 nations that connects women leaders in support of each other and the common mission of advancing women’s leadership and equality worldwide.Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. When you do this, it helps to raise our podcast profile so more leaders can find us and be inspired by the stories our Voices of Leadership have to share. Connect with us:Voices of Leadership WebsiteInstagram