In this episode, I had the incredible opportunity to interview Cayce Lynch and Ashley Paige Fetyko of Tyson & Mendes. Two women whose friendship and leadership journey exemplify what it means to rise together. Cayce, the firm’s National Managing Partner, first crossed paths with Ashley years ago in another firm, and what began as shared office walls and parallel seasons of life has grown into a deep bond rooted in shared purpose. We talked about how their connection has shaped not only their careers but also the culture they're building at Tyson & Mendes, where authenticity, growth, and support aren’t just words, but they’re the foundation. From leading national educational initiatives to standing firm on their values, they’re creating real change in the legal and insurance defense industries. What I appreciated most was their commitment to showing up fully, not just as professionals, but as women, mothers, and mentors. Cayce and Ashley shared the risks and rewards of living their values out loud. They spoke truthfully about the realities of caregiving, the power of asking for what you need (like pumping breaks at court), and how to create inclusive spaces where others feel seen. And of course, creating content that bridged the ideals of two very different powerhouse females: Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Taylor Swift, to share their wisdom with their firm and the broader industry. 

In this episode, I interview Molly Stewart, Regional Sales Operations Leader at High Street Insurance and Financial Services. Molly brings a rare 360-degree view of the insurance world, having worked across frontline operations, outside sales, agency ownership, and sales leadership. Her holistic experience informs a leadership style grounded in purpose, strategy, and heart. We dive into how she empowers agents to lead with integrity, reminding them that selling insurance isn't about pushing products; it's about protecting people and businesses from life’s worst moments. Molly shares powerful insights on what it means to truly serve clients, including when to walk away from the wrong fit and how vulnerability and storytelling can strengthen relationships. She challenges the outdated stigma of insurance sales and offers a compelling vision of what happens when agents ask the hard questions and stand confidently in their expertise. Molly proves that real impact in our industry comes from showing up with authenticity, courage, and care.  

In this episode, I interview Sheila Dye, Chief Operating Officer at Latitude Segregation Services, who found insurance through her husband. He even got a referral bonus for recruiting her to Nationwide! Sheila spent an impressive tenure there before finding Latitude. Her journey at a large organization, followed by a move to a smaller one, influenced her leadership style and approach to processes. Sheila shares the pivotal lessons she learned along the way, including the importance of listening, mentorship, and intentionally stepping out of your comfort zone to grow. What struck me most about Sheila is her blend of operational discipline and genuine care for people. We talk about leading through change, how to navigate tough transitions, and why creating a culture of accountability and compassion matters. Sheila also opens up about how motherhood shaped her leadership and the value she sees in investing in other women. 

In this episode, I sit down with Lydia Ramos, Director of Student Relations for Young Risk Professionals of Denver, to explore how she turned a chance moment in an urban auto insurance office into a life of purpose, leadership, and fierce love. Her resilience, shaped by a childhood marked by instability, hunger, and survival, is awe-inspiring. In spite of her hardship, she speaks of it not with bitterness, but with profound reflection, saying, “Only in the past few years have I truly embraced how resilient I am.” Lydia opens up about being a gang-involved teen, a young mother in an abusive relationship, and a woman who found her footing in insurance when she needed a new path most. Today, she’s not just building a career, she’s building a legacy. With six children under one roof (and one already in her own house), Lydia’s home is a multigenerational, love-filled hub of support, laughter, and safety. We talk about authenticity in leadership, the future of the industry, and how Lydia’s mission is to create the kind of family, community, and professional space she never had growing up. “Insurance,” she says, “was my segway to a real life.” 

In this episode, I sit down with someone whose digital presence precedes her in the best way possible. Ema Roloff, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer at Roloff Consulting, joins me to talk about her journey from the classroom to the world of digital transformation. With a background in teaching and more than a decade of experience helping companies modernize, Emma brings a powerful mix of curiosity, compassion, and communication to the table. We dig into how her unique approach to change management empowers businesses to not only adopt technology but truly embrace it with purpose and clarity. What I loved most about our conversation is Ema’s commitment to being a thoughtful leader in a space that’s often dominated by buzzwords and complexity. She breaks things down in a way that feels personal and actionable, whether she’s talking about automation, customer experience, or the empathetic side of leading change. We also talk about what it means to show up authentically online, the power of building in public, and how Emma’s role as an educator still shows up in her work every day. 

In this episode of InsHER, I interview the one and only Miranda Fischer, Producer at Alliant Insurance Services and a total force in the construction and surety space. From riding at the Grand Prix level in both Show Jumping and Dressage to operating heavy machinery and now representing some of the top AEC firms in New York, Miranda’s insurance story is anything but ordinary. We talk about how her unconventional background gives her a unique edge, and how she shows up authentically with neon multi-chrome eyebrows, full-body tattoos, and all. Miranda shares what it's like to be one of only a handful of female producers in her specialty and how she’s pushing boundaries simply by existing as her full self. We also get into the power of industry associations and the confidence they can instill, especially for women stepping into volunteer leadership roles. Miranda is involved in organizations like the Women Builders Council and Professional Women in Construction, and she explains how those spaces not only build community but spark lifelong friendships. She’s brutally honest, fiercely authentic, and endlessly bold, reminding us that we do deserve the seat we’ve earned and should have twice the audacity of everyone in the room. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider or questioned whether you belong, this episode is the reminder you didn’t know you needed.

In this episode of InsHER, I interviewed Jen Miller, founder of Power Sales and Strategy. With more than 25 years of experience and over a decade coaching thousands of insurance professionals, Jen brings sharp insights, authenticity, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed. But in a way you can feel happy with.  What stood out to me most was Jen’s powerful perspective on building confidence, especially for young women and introverts in an industry that often rewards the loudest voices. We dig into mentorship, intentional networking, and visibility in a remote world. From expressing your needs, to honoring your most productive hours, to designing a life and career that actually works, Jen demonstrates how leadership starts from within.

In this episode, I interview Rocio Luna, Workers’ Compensation Specialist and Risk Management Strategist. Rocio’s journey into insurance began with a simple yes. When a local agency needed help fast, she jumped in headfirst with no prior knowledge of workers’ comp. She candidly shares how Google became her best friend, how kind adjusters helped shape her foundation, and how she leaned into transparency, humility, and determination to earn her footing in a male-dominated space. Rocio opens up about those early years, the steep learning curve, and how developing client trust, especially when delivering tough news, was a cornerstone of her growth. We also talk about how Rocio’s experience in claims gave her the structure and insight to later build out scalable processes for risk management. Her transition into sales, while brief, taught her invaluable lessons about communication, confidence, and rejection. As a 25-year-old Latina woman surrounded by seasoned "golf guys," Rocio used her intuition and deep listening skills to form real connections with clients, and realized that being different was her strength. Her message to other women in the industry is powerful: don’t let intimidation or a number define your worth. You belong at the table, and your voice matters.

In this episode, I interview Jana Byron, SVP and Practice Leader for Texas Marine at Lockton. With Greek roots and family ties to shipping, Jana’s journey into marine insurance was destined. She shares how her experience at a UK P&I Club, a place where she initially hesitated to join an all-female team, became a powerful experience that reshaped her views on women in leadership. From marine law to underwriting to now leading at Lockton, Jana opens up about embracing bold career moves, like asking for the job she wasn’t sure she’d get by channeling what she calls her “act like a man” moment. Jana also shares how much the industry has evolved from being the only young woman in a room to now seeing more diverse and dynamic representation. We talk about the power of hiring for culture over credentials, the necessity of psychological safety in high-performing teams, and the importance of creating space for spirited (but respectful) debate. Jana’s passion for building inclusive community is clear in her work with LEMI (Ladies of Energy & Marine Insurance), a network she co-founded to empower women across the industry. 

In this episode, I interview Cortney Helfrich, Chief Personnel Officer at Wilber Group, one of the top subrogation agencies in the country. Cortney’s story is anything but linear. In her words, it’s a series of “left turns that got her to the right place.” From being ranked sixth in the nation in pole vaulting to walking away from the sport to pursue a career in insurance, her journey is full of unexpected pivots, each one leading her closer to her purpose. We talk about the powerful article that first sparked her passion for risk management, and how she’s spent 14 years growing with Wilber. She has tried nearly every role in the organization and now leads their People Resources department with authenticity and heart. Cortney opens up about what it means to be the only woman on the executive team, and how she uses that platform to champion mentorship, create psychological safety, and model what it looks like to lead while staying true to yourself. She shares her belief that it's okay to do what's best for you and your family, and that it's also okay to chase your dreams. We also talk about how to make insurance more visible and inspiring for future generations (yes, she’s dreaming of a subrogation specialist Halloween costume), and why she believes this industry offers the kind of stability and purpose young professionals are searching for. 

In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Corrie LoGiudice, keynote speaker, coach, and founder of Corrie Lo & Co LLC. Corrie shared her powerful journey from being the only woman, and the youngest person, in a senior executive role within a male-dominated industry to launching her own business after experiencing an unimaginable series of traumatic events. From miscarriage, abuse, divorce, and the devastating loss of a partner to suicide, Corrie opened up about what it means to keep showing up as a leader and a mother in the face of adversity. Her ability to transform personal tragedy into fuel for transformation and leadership is deeply inspiring, especially for women navigating both professional ambition and personal struggle. Corrie also speaks about taking the leap to build her business, not just for herself, but for her daughter and the future of women in leadership. We talked about what it means to invest in yourself, to shift your mindset from “what if it goes wrong?” to “what if it goes right?” and how she helps clients tackle burnout and overwhelm through her five-part framework: Clarity, Confidence, Community, Conditioning, and Consistency. Corrie’s message is clear—systemic change starts with courageous women stepping into leadership, and she’s here to help more of us do just that.

Amora Wood’s journey in insurance is a testament to the power of self-advocacy, asking for what you want, and not letting a “no” deter your ambition. She landed her first insurance job simply by striking up a conversation with a restaurant regular. That same curiosity led her to explore policies beyond her first role as a receptionist, sparking a passion that carried her into production. Throughout her career, Amora has embraced rejection as part of the process, encouraging others to do the same: “The word no, and rejection, get less powerful the more you hear it. Keep putting yourself out there.” Amora also challenged competitive workplace dynamics by fostering collaboration, choosing to uplift other women rather than compete. As a wife and mother, Amora confronted self-imposed guilt about balancing career and family, ultimately redefining success on her own terms. By seeking counsel of a working mothers she admired, she embraced the idea that pursuing her career was not just beneficial for her, it was an inspiring lesson for her children. “It's not about being there for every single thing, but about being the best version of yourself when you are.” Looking ahead, Amora hopes to create a supportive community for women in insurance, a space where they can share experiences and seek guidance.

In this episode, I interview Dalesa Bady, Founder of Pursue What Matters, to explore how she helps women, primarily women of color, in insurance land purpose-driven roles and build fulfilling careers. Dalesa’s journey from actuary to career alignment coach was fueled by a deep curiosity about people’s career paths and a passion for development. With nearly 15 years of experience in the property and casualty insurance space working at USAA, Pinnacle Actuarial Resources, and GuideOne Insurance, she has seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities within the industry. We discuss her transition into coaching, how she balanced launching her business while working full-time, and why she’s committed to helping women take control over their careers. Dalesa shares insights on the struggles women of color face in the insurance industry, including the barriers to leadership and the need for greater representation. She explains how she guides clients toward career clarity, well-being, and financial growth, helping them uncover hidden opportunities and navigate career transitions with confidence. We also dive into the shifting priorities of today’s professionals and what’s next for Pursue What Matters, including expanding corporate partnerships and increasing access to career development resources. 

In my first collaboration episode with ISC Group, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Emma Mahoney, a consultant clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with neurodivergent adults, young people, and families. Dr. Emma has conducted groundbreaking research on neurodivergence in women, specifically within the re/insurance industry, shedding light on the unique challenges and strengths these professionals bring to the workplace. Throughout our conversation, she demystifies neurodiversity, clarifies common misconceptions, and explores how companies can better support neurodivergent talent.  Dr. Emma shares why neurodivergent women are frequently underdiagnosed and how societal norms and workplace expectations add layers of complexity to their experiences. We discuss the impact of masking, the role of hormonal fluctuations, and the ways companies can create environments where neurodivergent professionals can thrive. By understanding these nuances, businesses can attract, retain, and elevate diverse talent while fostering innovation. Dr. Emma also encourages women who suspect they may be neurodivergent, to do their research, speak with a trusted expert, and decide if a formal diagnosis, or self-identifying, is right for them.  For interest in participating in Dr. Emma’s research, please connect with her on LinkedIn, or contact ISC Group: admin@isc-group.co 

In this episode, I speak with Leslie Carlson, Head of International Servicing at Zurich North America where she has invested 27 years of her career. When Leslie heard claims that women on her team weren’t interested in leadership roles at the onset of the pandemic, she gathered the women on her team and fact-checked. What she found wasn’t a lack of ambition, but a deep exhaustion from caregiving, household responsibilities, and financial strain. Once she knew the truth, Leslie began asking more and more questions and advocated for what her team truly needed. Through her efforts, Leslie not only fostered meaningful conversations but also initiated real change. Her advocacy led to salary adjustments, the introduction of practical benefits like cleaning services, and a forum that remains active, empowering women and educating allies. Leslie’s impact is undeniable: higher retention, career advancements, and a culture of allyship that continues to grow. Leslie encourages women who feel exhausted by the fight for equity to lean on their network and replenish the energy to keep going.  

In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Peskin, CEO and Chief Finder of Keepers at Global Recruiters of Denver, to talk about the power of connection, strategic career moves, and building a more inclusive insurance industry. Jessica’s journey started by chance in real estate title insurance, but it quickly turned into a lifelong career. After realizing the economic and personal toll of constant travel, she made the bold move to Denver, where she launched her boutique recruiting firm in 2019. Unlike high-volume recruiters, Jessica focuses on strategic placements that create long-term success, finding a special joy in matching the right candidate with the right opportunity. Her approach is all about looking at the bigger picture: what clients need, what candidates bring to the table, and how to ensure both sides thrive. Beyond recruitment, Jessica is a dedicated contributor to InsurTech Denver, a passionate advocate for women in insurance, and a firm believer in the power of relationships. She shares why building a “board of advisors” is essential for career growth, how women can break into leadership roles, and why compensation transparency and workplace flexibility matter. Jessica encourages young women to find their niche within insurance, speak up, and stay curious. 

In this episode, I interview Stacey Divers-Turner, a servant leader with over 35 years of experience in the insurance industry. From shaping strategic policies at Allstate, Nationwide, and Farmers Insurance to optimizing distribution channels and recruiting small business owners, Stacey has seen firsthand how diverse talent can thrive in insurance. Now, as a career ownership coach, she’s passionate about helping others discover new opportunities, guiding individuals from all backgrounds to leverage their strengths in meaningful ways. Stacey shares how her experience in compliance, project management, and sales leadership prepared her to coach professionals into business ownership.  We also explore the evolving role of women in business, the power of mentorship, and the shift from corporate careers to entrepreneurship. Stacey emphasizes that success isn’t about fitting into a mold, but about having the right support and recognizing your unique value. She discusses how women are creating businesses that align with their lives, breaking through barriers of ageism, and redefining leadership on their own terms. This conversation is packed with insights on transforming your career, building a mission-driven business, and embracing the confidence that comes with experience.

In today's special episode of #InsHER, I sit down with Diana Patton, the Rise Advocates® Academy, and International Speaker, Consultant, and Author. Diana founded the Academy in 2016 to empower professional women by helping them build confidence, embrace their personal journeys, and advocate for themselves and others. She equips women with tools to navigate workplace challenges and drive meaningful change. Additionally, her Rise with Diana platform offers coaching, consulting, and corporate training to foster inclusive workplace cultures. Reflecting on her journey, Diana acknowledges the struggles of past generations, particularly her grandmother, who overcame systemic barriers. She remains committed to ensuring women feel valued, understand their worth, and rise above external validation, even as DEI initiatives face challenges. Her defining moment came in 2020, prompting deep self-reflection and a focus on character, resilience, and internal strength. She emphasizes that true power comes from within, beyond titles and appearances, and encourages women to embrace their authenticity, personal growth, and leadership without diminishing others. Join Diana's March 9, 1 PM CST webinar: https://lnkd.in/gUu6akWq. Also, attached is a graphic for the webinar. Sign up for weekly downloads that Diana shares every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9am: https://lnkd.in/gHPvq_Aj

In this roundtable episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with the seven incredible women who came together to form WISE: a community dedicated to supporting and uplifting women in wholesale and specialty insurance. What started as a casual happy hour among colleagues quickly evolved into an empowering network focused on fostering relationships, mentorship, and inclusivity. Leah Ohodnicki, Mallorie Harper, Shawnae Bentley, Kathy Colangelo, Dana DiLullo, Dawnmarie Black, and my first returning guest, Meghan Leary, share how WISE was built organically from existing friendships and a shared desire to create a welcoming space. From helping newcomers navigate industry events to expanding professional networks, these women emphasize that true success comes from connection, collaboration, and showing up for each other. We also dive into the power of authenticity, the role of male allies in advancing women’s careers, and the importance of building confidence early on. The guests reflect on their own journeys, offering advice to younger women on embracing their strengths, speaking up in the room, and trusting that they belong. As WISE continues to grow, the focus remains on keeping the community open, supportive, and free from expectations. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned leader, this conversation is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to navigate your career alone. Interested in learning more about WISE? Contact connect@wiseinsurance.org and include InsHER podcast in the subject line.

In this episode, I interview Tracey Swift, Editor-in-Chief and the founder of HigherEd Risk, to discuss how risk management goes beyond insurance. It's about asking the right questions, fostering resilience, and empowering businesses to proactively navigate uncertainty. Tracey’s journey spans both brokerage and higher education, including nearly eight years at Arizona State University, where she built a risk management program that complemented the university’s mission. From implementing policies to protect minors on campus to shaping boardroom discussions on strategic risk, Tracey has consistently focused on making risk management proactive, accessible, and aligned with long-term goals.  Post-pandemic, Tracey saw an increased appetite for risk awareness at the board level, leading her to create a platform that delivers actionable intelligence in a concise, digestible way. Taking a leap into entrepreneurship was a risk in itself, but Tracey embraced the challenge, leveraging LinkedIn to build her brand and connect with like-minded professionals. She shares valuable insights on the power of consistency, authenticity, and patience in building an online presence. We also discuss the importance of getting young women into strategic meetings early in their careers, ensuring they gain visibility and access.