LEADERS TO FOLLOW
IN – FOCUS
GLORIA KOLB: PIONEERING NON-INVASIVE SOLUTIONS IN WOMEN’S HEALTH
EXELEON SPOTLIGHT
NURTURING COMPASSIONATE
LEADERSHIP: BRIDGING THE GAP
BETWEEN EMPATHY AND ACTION
EXELEON SPOTLIGHT
A NEED FOR CHILDCARE BENEFITS IN THE WORKPLACE
This March, we are proud to dedicate not just one, but multiple issues to the indomitable spirit, resilience, and achievements of women entrepreneurs and leaders across various industries.
Our decision to spotlight these incredible women stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of their stories to inspire, educate, and empower. Each narrative we've chosen to share reflects not only the personal triumphs of these leaders but also their significant contributions to reshaping their sectors and, by extension, our world.
Women have long been the backbone of innovation, creativity, and change, yet their stories have often remained in the shadows. It is our honor at Exeleon to bring these stories to light, celebrating the milestones achieved while acknowledging the hurdles that still exist. Our aim is not only to pay tribute to these trailblazers but also to foster a community that supports and uplifts women in their entrepreneurial and leadership journeys.
Through this series, we invite our readers to delve into the lives of women who have broken barriers, challenged the status quo, and set new precedents. From technology and science to arts and social enterprise, these women have carved paths of excellence, demonstrating what is possible when talent meets tenacity.
But let this not be merely a moment of reflection. Let it also serve as a clarion call for ongoing action and advocacy for gender equality and inclusivity in every sphere of life. The stories we share are beacons of hope and catalysts for change, reminding us all of the work that remains in ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to reach her full potential.
In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to our readers, contributors, and the remarkable women whose stories we are privileged to share. Your support fuels our mission to not only highlight achievements but also to create a platform for dialogue, learning, and progress.
DARYL YEUNG Editor-in-ChiefEmbracing Excellence
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leaders have a discernible vision. They want to build a strong culture where everyone knows that a company's success or setbacks depend on four pillars: shared values, working together, staying focused, and trusting each other. These remarkable leaders hold core values that are inimitable and eclectic, closely tied to uplifting and guiding others with con idence and purpose.
Serena Mastin is one such empowering individual who effortlessly imprints her purpose into the heart of what truly matters. Her journey led her to become a visionary entrepreneur, an accomplished author, and an inspiring speaker.
recognizing her strengths and areas of improvement is integral to becoming a more effective leader. “I am attuned to the emotional states of my team members, which empowers me to provide support, develop deeper connections, and make decisions that positively affect both individuals and the organization.”
Serena's early years weren't easy for her. She faced different experiences that connected her to feelings of despair, pain, chaos, and discomfort. When she thinks of her past, one feeling lingers distinctly: her desire for safety. This longing stemmed from her years living in the shadows of witness protection and the uncertainty of numerous foster homes.
Despite spending two decades in the corporate world, Serena's transition to founding her own venture, Pulse Marketing, in 2013 re lects her unique qualities, such as healing, grace, deep care, and resilience in overcoming obstacles, building trust, spreading joy, inspiring others, and igniting the spirit to empower those around her.
Transparency comes naturally to her as she knows how to nurture genuine human connections. “My empathy allows me to deeply understand and share the feelings and experiences of others,” she re lects. Her drive to create an environment grounded in trust and safety is evident.
Another cornerstone of her leadership philosophy is self-awareness. She knows that
These moments then became the backdrop to a period of teenage addiction and homelessness, testing her resilience and empathy that she had yet to discover within herself. And this was the beginning of uncovering her inner stability and self-con idence.
As time lew by, Serena found a scattering of light, little ire lies of hope. She gradually learned to take control of her life and shifted her focus towards gaining independence. It was during her early teens where she spent her days admiring remarkable women who then became a source of inspiration and motivation for her. “Although I didn't have one speci ic role model, I had a clear vision of the person I wanted to become — a successful businesswoman known for her unwavering resilience and empathy,” she says.
The only hope in making the world a better place is by transforming ourselves f
journey has been marked by profound challenges...yet within this tapestry of trials, I found a deeper sense of purpose.
Later, through her hard work and perseverance, she endured the edges of discomfort and climbed the corporate ladder, embracing leadership roles for nearly two decades. In 2013, she took the bold leap to establish Pulse Marketing, riding through the undercurrents of entrepreneurship.
Meanwhile, in her personal life, she faced the complexities of a dif icult marriage, which sadly ended with the loss of her husband to suicide in 2020. The grief was immeasurable, yet she slowly learned to heal and ind a deeper sense of purpose.
“I've channeled my experiences into writing a memoir, a cathartic re lection of my life's journey, and have committed myself
wholeheartedly to empowering others to ind their voice,” she mentions. Serena believes that selflimiting beliefs can be shattered and replaced with limitless selfcompassion, launching yourself towards resilience and growth.
Moreover, she points out that emotional resilience begins by transforming negative emotions into positive and powerful
intentions — turning anger into commitment, fear into courage, jealousy into appreciation, exhaustion into resilience, scarcity into abundance, and negativity into gratitude.
“I have no room in my heart for negative emotions. I choose to ill my heart with love, abundance, peace, and gratitude. The only hope in making the world a better place is by transforming ourselves irst,” she remarks.
Serena's journey into entrepreneurship started from a humble place of limitless support and encouragement— through her mother. She was someone who recognized the potential and possibilities in her daughter.
Although initially, Serena couldn't ind the con idence to start her entrepreneurial journey, her mother's words remained close to her heart — "If not for yourself, then do it for me." In that moment, she realized that her words held undeniable power, nudging her to pursue growth and acceptance.
This led Serena to successfully launch her business, Pulse Marketing, with a fractional marketing model. She felt this was the right business opportunity to explore, given the evolving needs of her clients and the dynamic nature of the business.
“The fractional approach offers companies access to a complete team of graphic designers, content writers, and web and digital experts without bearing the full cost. Our method stands out from
conventional marketing agencies by providing the adaptability and scalability that small and mediumsized businesses require, making it an optimal choice for their unique needs,” she explains.
Through Pulse Marketing, Serena and her team offer carefully crafted, straightforward solutions and services designed to assist clients of all sizes, including DIY (Do it Yourself), DWF (Do it With You), and DFY (Do it For You).
One of them is the Marketing Roadmap (DIY - Do It Yourself) : This service is for those clients who want an affordable marketing strategy that they can easily handle themselves, like solopreneurs and small businesses.
The second is the monthly retainer (DWY - Done with You) . This service offers a wide range of access to a team of graphic designers, content writers, and web and digital experts without breaking the bank, perfect for small and mid-sized businesses.
Lastly, there are one-time projects (DFY—Done for You). These are for anyone needing a big project done at once, like a branding package or a custom website, so they can focus on other things while the team takes care of the little details.
Serena explains that good storytelling is the backbone of marketing strategies as it is these stories that win and turn the seemingly unimaginable into a reality These stories not only highlight what sets a company
apart, but also captures the company values into practice.
According to Serena, the most meaningful advertising campaigns take you on an emotional journey, allowing you to connect with your audience. This is what makes a successful brand. In fact, she believes it is necessary to understand how your products and services meet a customer's emotional needs.
“Your customers don't want a sales pitch; they value authenticity in the information they receive, honesty in the products offered, and transparency in communication. That's what drives loyal customers,” she adds.
Serena's blend of open-mindedness and strong-willed determination is powerful. She embraces feedback and communication rooted in L.U.V.—Listening, Understanding, and Validating. Her mission is crystal clear: to create opportunities for mentorship, coaching, and empowering her team while building a strong sense of belongingness.
As a leader, she also recognizes that establishing healthy boundaries is fundamental to the well-being of her team. For this, she created a simple acronym that shows her commitment to maintaining this value: B.R.A.V.E. This stands for Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Vulnerability, and Equal Investment. These are not just words for her but a roadmap, a set of guidelines shaping a culture of empowerment within the team.
Under Serena's leadership, boundaries are shared, reliability is a promise, accountability is owned, vulnerability is a strength, and equal investment is the currency that pushes them forward.
She believes in reshaping narratives and realizes the incredible power to change not only her storyline but also those around her. Through her actions, she inspires people to improve and empower themselves, thus creating a workplace where everyone thrives, and collective success is celebrated.
Serena has witnessed extraordinary success in recent years, but she always keeps her North Star in sight — her commitment to human connection. She is dedicated to creating experiences that extend beyond just numbers on a spreadsheet. Her focus as a business is well-rounded and impactful: to empower both her team members and clients to reach their highest potential.
For her, the essence of success is not solely found in the inal step at the summit; rather, it resides in the personal growth that unfolds with each step upward.
As she treads the mountain of entrepreneurship, she invites others to join her in the climb, where strength is tested, resilience is built, and spirit is re ined. Her journey is one of inspiration and empowerment, for the reward is not just the view from the peak, but the transformation that takes place within as you rise.
One Book Entrepreneurs must read – Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Jean Greaves and Travis Bradberry
One Tool / App that you would Recommend –Sanity & Self Daily Practice
One Quote that Motivates you the most – The most ierce and powerful women in the world have lived in the trenches, endured great pain, made mistakes, failed many times, have been broken yet brave, and their failure never stops them. Instead, it fuels them. They rise up, forgive, love deeply, and continue to pour their hearts into everything they do.
One Advice for Women Entrepreneurs – “You don't have to set yourself on ire to keep others warm.”
I hope these words deeply resonate with you. Much like many of you, I've frequently sacri iced my own needs, believing that my value was solely de ined by what I could provide, not simply by who I am.
However, I've come to a crucial understanding: our true worth is constant and independent of how others perceive or recognize us. This knowledge should strengthen your resolve, af irming that your identity and value are profound and unassailable. Let this realization inspire you to lead with con idence in your invaluable uniqueness.
One Movie / Podcast / Show you recommend –On Purpose with Jay Shetty Mental Health podcast
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When life gets tough, as it often does, I'm faced with two choices: giving up or getting going. For me, giving up has never been an option, even when faced with a major health challenge. I didn't just sit back when I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. I decided to turn my struggle into something positive. Rather than letting my illness slow me down, I let it push me to do something remarkable! I not only made lemonade but went on to build a thriving digital marketing agency in the process.
I share my story with people, not for fame, but to show others that it's possible to overcome substantial obstacles and still make your dreams come true.
THE INTERSECTION BETWEEN VULNERABILITY AND STRENGTH
Success for me hasn't transpired by pretending that everything is perfect. Quite the contrary; it's my raw and honest approach to sharing life's ups
and downs that has resonated with over 30,000+ followers.
This is the side of business rarely shown on social media, where vulnerability meets strength. I show up, unapologetically myself, sharing the realities of juggling a signi icant career with the unpredictability of a chronic illness. Here lies an important lesson: You can foster a community and build success by simply being genuine.
• Embracing Vulnerability- I have been candid about my struggles with Crohn's disease, a chronic illness that has signi icantly impacted my life. Instead of hiding this aspect of my identity, I have chosen to share my experiences openly, setting a new precedent for what leadership can look like.
• Rede ining Strength- Through my openness, I have rede ined the conventional image of strength. Strength, as I exemplify, is not about presenting an invulnerable front. It's about
•acknowledging your struggles, facing them head-on, and using them as a foundation to build something greater.
• Inspirational Leadership- My approach to blending personal vulnerability with undeniable strength has not only contributed to my success but also inspired those around me. My story encourages other women to own their stories, embrace their challenges, and lean into their vulnerabilities as a source of strength and empowerment.
• Creating a Supportive Community- By sharing my journey, I have fostered a community where openness and support lourish. This community serves as a reminder that one does not have to face their battles alone. There is strength in numbers, and even more so in collective empathy and understanding.
What's remarkable about my journey is not just my commercial success but how I support and uplift other women to achieve their own goals. I understand the unique challenges faced by women, especially those who are sick, yet I push the narrative that these obstacles don't de ine one's capabilities.
• Relatability- My openness about my life's challenges enables me to connect on a personal level with my audience. My story serves as a beacon of hope and a source of
strength for anyone facing their own battles, silently or otherwise.
• Trust and Credibility- By sharing my journey, I've built a foundation of trust and credibility. My followers and clients don't just see me as a business leader; they see me as a trusted advisor who understands the complexity of balancing health challenges with professional ambitions.
• Empowerment through Visibility- I use my platform to shine a light on the oftenoverlooked truth that illness does not preclude success. My visibility and success provide tangible proof that women can forge their paths in business, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
• Inspiration to Act- Beyond just sharing my story, I inspire action. I encourage my followers and clients to embrace their own narratives, leverage their unique insights, and pursue their professional ambitions with vigor and con idence.
At S&S Creative, the mission goes beyond achieving results; it involves recognizing that the entrepreneurial women we serve come with a diverse range of life experiences, including health challenges. It's an agency that stands as a reminder: your circumstances don't de ine your success.
My 'Sick and Successful' podcast
not only echoes the sentiments of my professional journey but also offers a platform to discuss the seldom-shared complexities of managing a business while encountering health struggles. It's a source of solidarity, inspiration, and practical advice for those navigating similar paths.
• Connects on an Emotional Level - Stories, especially those involving personal struggles and triumphs like mine, forge a deep emotional connection with the audience. It's this connection that makes my message more impactful and memorable.
• Serves as a Source of Inspiration- My own journey, shared through my podcast and public speaking, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. My story exempli ies that it's possible to overcome signi icant challenges and achieve success, providing a powerful motivational boost to those who may be facing their own struggles.
• Educates Through Real-life Experiences- Beyond just inspiring, my storytelling is educational. I share tangible insights and lessons learned from navigating the complexities of managing a chronic illness while building and running a successful business. These stories offer practical advice that listeners can apply in their own lives.
• Builds a Community of Support- Sharing stories creates a sense of shared experience, fostering a
Natalie Suppes is the Founder and CEO of S&S Creative, a thriving digital marketing agency known for its innovative approaches and tangible results. With over ifteen years of industry experience, including roles at multi-million-dollar organizations, Natalie has established herself as a leading expert in the ield. Her battle with Crohn's disease has not only shaped her resilience but also inspired her to empower others, especially women, through her work and her voice.
As a beacon of hope and strength, Natalie shares her journey of being "Sick and Successful" through her podcast, aiming to uplift and encourage those facing their own challenges. Her authentic storytelling and dedication have cultivated a community of over 30,000 loyal
followers, making her a true inspiration in the digital marketing world and beyond.
•community among listeners and followers. This community becomes a source of support, encouragement, and further storytelling, amplifying the message that one is not alone in their struggles.
• Promotes Awareness and Understanding- Through storytelling, I also play a crucial role in raising awareness about chronic illnesses like Crohn's disease. My openness in discussing how it affects my life invites greater understanding and empathy, contributing to
breaking down stigmas associated with such conditions.
For every person who has ever felt overshadowed by their circumstances, my story serves as a powerful reminder: Your battles may shape you, but they don't de ine you
I defy the traditional narrative of success, not just surviving, but
thriving, proving day in and day out that you can be both sick and successful. And I encourage everyone, especially those battling chronic illnesses, to rede ine their limits and chase after their dreams. Through strategic planning, relentless perseverance, and unwavering self-belief, you too can carve out a slice of success. It's all about turning the tough stuff into a stepping stone, not a stop sign.
May my journey remind you to embrace your journey, celebrate your battles, and always stride forward!
In a groundbreaking move, Bank of America recently unveiled a signi icant AI tech upgrade aimed at enhancing customer experiences and streamlining services for both clients and staff. However, BofA is not alone in this venture, as a recent report from GetResponse sheds light on the multitude of companies across the United States making substantial strides in their digital journey by integrating AI and blockchains into their banking operations.
GetResponse has sent out a press release highlighting the potential savings for various industries in the US through the right implementation of AI. This topic has become even more intriguing in the wake of Bank of America's announcement, signaling a broader trend towards AI adoption in the business landscape.
McKinsey estimates that AI has the potential to increase corporate pro its by a staggering $4.4 trillion. The GetResponse report delves deeper into the speci ics, focusing on the top ive industries poised for signi icant savings in 2024:
Utilizing Census data on the number of companies within these sectors across each US state, the report unveils the potential annual savings for the top ive industries. California leads the way, with total savings reaching a staggering $10.8 billion in 2024, distributed across the automotive, commercial service, architecture, engineering & building, inance, and hair & beauty sectors.
Here's a snapshot of the top 10 states and their respective total annual savings:
1. California: $10,897,891,153
2. Florida: $7,885,228,589
3. Texas: $7,105,578,445
4. New York: $6,931,987,168
5. Illinois: $4,152,942,308
6. Pennsylvania: $3,689,997,647
7. Georgia: $3,073,438,679
8. New Jersey: $3,064,841,759
9. North Carolina: $3,047,600,831
10. Ohio: $2,820,439,881
The potential savings across these industries extend beyond mere numbers. The implementation of AI could revolutionize various aspects of each sector:
Automotive
· Predictive Maintenance: AI can analyze vehicle sensor data, predicting maintenance needs to reduce downtime and prevent costly breakdowns. It can also optimize logistics, ensuring ef icient inventory management and cutting costs.
· Customer Service Automation: AI-powered chatbots handle routine queries, freeing up resources for more complex tasks. It can predict trends, enhancing decision-making and resource allocation.
· Design Optimization: AI algorithms optimize building designs for energy ef iciency, costeffectiveness, and sustainability. It can assist in project scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management, reducing delays and cost overruns.
· Fraud Detection: AI analyzes transaction data to identify fraudulent patterns, preventing inancial losses. It can also analyze real-time market data, optimizing investment portfolios.
· Personalized Recommendations: AI analyzes customer preferences and skin/hair types, providing personalized product recommendations. It can track stock, and demand forecasting optimizes inventory levels, reducing wastage and costs.
Additionally, AI can signi icantly reduce administrative costs and processing times across all sectors, spanning bookings, emails, queries, and more.
As industries embark on this transformative journey, the potential for savings is immense, promising not only inancial gains but also increased ef iciency and improved customer experiences. For more details, you can explore the comprehensive report on AI productivity on GetResponse's of icial site.
In the era of AI-driven innovation, the business landscape is evolving, and those at the forefront of technological integration stand to reap the rewards of a more streamlined and ef icient future.
Gloria Kolb, the co-founder of ELITONE®, is not just an inventor but a visionary in the realm of women's health. With an impressive portfolio of 30 patents to her name, Gloria has dedicated her career to addressing some of the most intimate and overlooked issues in women's health.
In this exclusive interview, we explore the inspiration behind her groundbreaking invention, ELITONE®, a non-invasive treatment for urinary incontinence, and delve into her journey of innovation and perseverance.
Can you share the inspiration behind co-founding ELITONE® and developing a non-invasive treatment for urinary incontinence?
I knew bladder leakage was a common issue, but it wasn't until I was trying to treat myself that I became dismayed at and alerted to how poor the treatments were. “Poor” means that they may have worked but had no concern with how a
woman would it the treatment into her life. All the vaginal devices meant that she had to ind time to lock herself in her bedroom to be lat on her back and wait 20 minutes. The vaginal devices were hard to hold, hard to keep using, and just made me feel icky. I thought there had to be a better (easier) way!
With 30 patents to your name, what drives your passion for invention and innovation in women's health?
I love creating and designing, and that was how I was made. Put that together with the real need in women's health, where there hasn't been a lot of innovation, and that sets the platform. Then keep it fueled with the feedback from women that Elitone is changing their lives, and that all keeps us going.
ELITONE® has been recognized as a breakthrough solution for incontinence. Can you discuss the challenges you faced during its development and how you overcame them?
With my cofounder and my 50+ combined years in medical device development, we didn't ind a lot of challenges during Elitone's development. Our planning and experience got us through prototype development, clinical studies, and only a few minor
hiccups with regulatory approvals. It does take time though, unlike the array of non-medical kegel devices that lood the market making any sort of claims they want. However, our challenges (and I can't say we overcame them - we are still going through them), come in the
commercialization of the products. For example, it was pretty impossible to get funding due to the embarrassing nature of the issue, a product for women's health, by a female founder, that male investors don't necessarily understand. But even female investors have told me,
“I love Elitone, and I will keep using your product, but I am going to fund your competitor because it's a better inancial deal that I cannot pass up.”
Secondly, we are highly regulated but are selling Direct to Consumer,
so we don't it the life science nor CPG (consumer product goods) buckets that venture capital investors typically are in.
Finally, we sell directly to consumers to make Elitone as accessible as possible (since most
women do not talk to their doctors about incontinence), yet the consumers expect lower pricing as an electronic and will compare Elitone to the cheaper devices that have no FDA approvals! It is a tough area to be in, but we stick it out because we know in the end we are serving women the best.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to careers in technology and innovation, particularly in the femtech space?
I previously had a job early in my career where I just analyzed foreign missiles. Although it used my engineering degrees, it felt empty and unsustainable. When you create a product that other people bene it from, it is so rewarding. One thing about serving women is that they are very vocal, both when they have their complaints, and also so appreciative when you help them. I would tell women who are interested in this career to go for it. I enjoy my work and it is not a “job”. Isn't that what we want out of life, to be ful illed?
How do you plan to continue driving innovation and addressing unmet needs in women's health through your work?
We have quite a large list of women now. I plan to keep asking them questions and listening to them.
From the sidelines of FOX Sports to the frontlines of global conservation, Amy Green's journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven transformation. With a remarkable two-decade career as a FOX Sports host behind her, Amy has seamlessly transitioned into a role that re lects her deep commitment to making a difference in the world.
Today, she stands as one of America's Most in luential philanthropists, global ambassadors, and thought leaders, having single-handedly raised over two million dollars in the past year for conservation and anti-poaching initiatives.
Amy's dedication to philanthropy extends beyond her impressive fundraising achievements. She serves as an ambassador to the African Community & Conservation Foundation (ACCF) and the
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). Alongside her husband Gary, a lifelong New Yorker and fellow advocate for change, Amy is also a global ambassador to Prince William's charity, the Tusk Trust, which is dedicated to accelerating African-driven conservation efforts.
In her latest endeavor, Amy has launched The Green Vision foundation, aiming to raise funds through the inaugural "Footprint of Life" gala and foster collaboration among the world's leading climate change-focused organizations.
In this exclusive interview, Amy shares her inspiring journey, her strategies for successful fundraising, the motivation behind her initiative The Green Vision, and her aspirations for a sustainable future.
Can you share your journey from being
a FOX Sports television reporter to becoming a prominent philanthropist and global ambassador?
My journey from having a sports show and interviewing athletes to becoming a prominent philanthropist and global ambassador has been deeply rooted in my passion for the health of our planet and protecting wildlife. This passion has always been in my heart, and my previous career provided me with the opportunity to reach a vast audience, spreading the crucial message of proactive environmental conservation.
I am grateful for the relationships and connections I cultivated during my time in sports broadcasting, as they helped me transition into a position where I could share grace and information on a larger scale. It's ful illing to see how my background has enabled me to make a meaningful impact in environmental activism and wildlife preservation. I'm committed to continuing this journey and advocating for a sustainable future for our planet.
As someone who has raised over two million dollars for conservation and anti-poaching initiatives, what strategies have you found most effective in fundraising?
In my experience of raising over two million dollars for conservation and anti-poaching initiatives, I've found that authenticity and passion are key to effective fundraising. It's crucial to genuinely convey your passion for the project and allow individuals to connect with it on a personal level. Rather than solely focusing on raising money, it's
about raising vibrations and inspiring others to join you in making a positive impact.
By believing deeply in the cause and conveying that belief with enthusiasm, you create a positive synergy that resonates with people and motivates them to contribute in various ways. It's about emphasizing the bigger picture and showing individuals how their contributions can make a tangible difference in protecting our planet and its wildlife. Ultimately, it's this genuine passion and belief that foster a sense of community and drive successful fundraising efforts.
What motivated you to launch The Green Vision, and what are its primary goals?
The motivation behind launching
The Green Vision stemmed from a deep-seated desire to address the pressing environmental challenges facing our planet. Witnessing irsthand the detrimental effects of climate change and habitat destruction fueled my determination to take action.
The primary goal of The Green Vision is to foster a more sustainable future by implementing innovative solutions, raising awareness, and mobilizing communities to protect our environment and wildlife for generations to come.
How does The Green Vision facilitate collaboration between leading climate change-focused organizations?
The Green Vision facilitates collaboration between leading climate change-focused organizations by serving as a
platform for dialogue and collective action. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, we aim to harness the collective expertise and resources of diverse organizations to tackle environmental issues more effectively.
It's about collaboration. Absolutely, collaborating and leveraging each other's resources creates a beautiful synergy that ampli ies our collective impact. By pooling our expertise, knowledge, and resources, we can achieve far more together than we could individually. Together, we can create a brighter and more sustainable future for our planet.
What are your long-term goals for your philanthropic work and The Green Vision foundation?
My long-term aspirations are centered on creating a safer world for my children and future generations. This includes a strong commitment to protecting wildlife, preserving endangered species, and conserving biodiversity. By actively engaging in these efforts, I aim to leave behind a legacy of environmental stewardship and inspire others to join the cause.
Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, I believe we can create a future where humans and nature thrive in harmony. This entails not only safeguarding our planet's rich biodiversity but also addressing the root causes of environmental degradation and climate change. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a sustainable and resilient world that ensures a better quality of life for all living beings.
In environments with exemplary leadership and nontoxic workplace dynamics, the buzzword du jour is undoubtedly "empathy." A term that has become as ubiquitous as water coolers in of ice corridors, it's a concept everyone seems to grasp, yet only some truly understand. It might surprise many to learn that, in psychology, there are two types of empathy: emotional and cognitive. When a person experiences or can identify with the feelings of another and even share in their distress, that's emotional empathy in action.
Cognitive empathy is understanding another person's point of view, opinions, and outlook not through emotion but through knowledge or awareness. It's a close cousin to emotional intelligence. Both types are
essential to great leadership, but is empathy enough when today's workplace demands understanding, tangible action, and genuine concern?
Enter empathy's nuanced sibling –compassion. The unsung hero in the narrative of effective leadership. Unlike empathy, compassion is a dynamic force, propelling leaders from awareness, understanding, and feeling to tangible action. It's the bridge between acknowledging employees' struggles and actively working to ind solutions to lessen or eliminate those burdens. In essence, compassionate leadership doesn't stop at empathizing; it compels leaders to create environments where everyone feels genuinely cared for.
Though the distinction between empathy and compassion is subtle, it is still signi icant. Leaders who comprehend this difference are more than just ticking off diversity and inclusivity checkboxes. They positively in luence workplace cultures where everyone, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, health, and disability status, feels valued, seen, heard, and embraced.
The outdated perception that leaders who demonstrate compassion are weak is a false narrative that diminishes and sti les organizational growth. By embracing compassion into management practices with awareness and intentionality, leaders can still handle weighty
duties while building solid foundations that foster a culture of trust, support, learning, and shared accountability. Leaders who respond compassionately to employees nurture a psychologically safe atmosphere that allows creativity, learning, and collaboration to thrive while boosting performance and company loyalty, all of which positively impact an organization's bottom line and competitive advantage.
Even so, the challenges leaders face when navigating the delicate balance between empathy and its proactive counterpart, compassion, persist. Many well-intentioned leaders ind themselves witnesses to employees navigating the rollercoaster of life, which often involves grappling with personal obstacles – the kind that hit hard, like losing a loved one, going through a divorce, facing an injury, becoming a caretaker, or dealing with chronic health issues. These aren't just road bumps; they're emotional avalanches that can tumble into the workplace, leaving a trail of impact on performance and well-being. It's like trying to juggle life's curveballs while balancing on a unicycle –challenging, to say the least. Leaders wanting to infuse compassion into their current leadership style should consider the following:
Work on becoming more present and aware. As Henry David Thoreau famously said,“...most…live lives of quiet desperation.” Quiet suffering can be discerned by observing unusual behavior or noticing abrupt changes in performance. Verbal and non-verbal signals such as lack of eye contact, tone of voice,
or physical agitation can all be calls for concern. Taking the initiative to privately and thoughtfully discuss these changes with an employee so you can collaborate on easing the burden is the difference between allowing an employee to cope in silence while struggling to perform and possibly failing or sharing in a solution-oriented approach to their setback that helps them reach their full potential.
Be ready to act and get creative on inding solutions that have the potential to alleviate an employee's burden so they can actively move forward to perform at their best. Things like creating space for a lexible work environment, expressing con idence in an employee's capabilities, introducing a reboarding program for those forced to take extended leave where they phase back into work with a reintegration plan, and considering parental transition support programs, which allows new parents to work part-time for a certain number of months after taking parental leave.
Everyone's experiences and struggles are worthy of consideration. Regularly check your biases to ensure you aren't making snap or automatic judgments based on beliefs that certain groups of people and their struggles are less than others.
Learning the art of active listening and regularly extending social cues that foster connection help to build relationships, and encourages empathetic responses. Strive to hear words while genuinely understanding the emotions and struggles behind them.
Compassionate leaders go beyond
acknowledging dif iculties; they roll up their sleeves to collaboratively ind growth opportunities. Something as simple as making eye contact during a conversation without glancing at your phone makes a world of difference to those engaged in or perceiving the interaction.
Lead by example by demonstrating vulnerability and authenticity. Normalize leaders sharing their own challenges and growth experiences to create a culture that encourages psychological safety and continuous learning. Having regular meetings where employees feel safe to share successes and missteps creates learning opportunities for everyone. It inspires honesty and a sense of ownership that in luences others to ask for help should they encounter making mistakes of their own.
The call for compassionate leadership is not merely a trend but necessary in today's complex and diverse workplaces. While empathy lays the groundwork, compassion propels leaders to make a lasting impact. Practical implementation requires a deliberate shift from understanding to action – a commitment to creating workplaces where empathy isn't just discussed but demonstrated through compassionate leadership. The journey may seem daunting, but every step brings us closer to a workplace where everyone truly belongs.
Michelle Tyler is head of operations and a co-founder of New Era ADR. She may be reached at michelle@neweraadr.com.
In today's fast-paced world, modern parents who are professionals face a unique challenge: balancing a career while taking care of their family, especially children. Achieving a work-life balance is notoriously dif icult, so childcare bene its in the workplace have become a crucial aspect of ensuring that parents do not have to sacri ice their family or their career. This article aims to shed light on the importance, impact, and effective implementation of childcare bene its for both employees and businesses.
As the leader of a startup tech agency with many working parents as contractors, I've observed irsthand that the lack of accessible childcare is often cited as a signi icant drawback to employment. Parents are concerned that childcare issues may negatively affect their performance and how they are perceived in terms of productivity. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation highlighted the need for employer-supported childcare, stating that at least 32% of employees have missed work due to childcare issues at home. Furthermore, businesses offering childcare bene its have seen an increase in employee satisfaction and retention.
1. Childcare Subsidies and Vouchers: Financial assistance for employees improves their satisfaction and loyalty. The Center for American Progress reported an increase in workforce participation and productivity when childcare subsidies were provided.
2. On-site Childcare Facilities: Offering quality childcare services within or close to the workplace allows parents to focus on their work, knowing their children are well-cared-for. The SAS Institute partially attributes its low turnover rate of 4% to its comprehensive onsite childcare services.
3. Remote Work Options and Flexible Working Hours: These bene its enable employees to balance their responsibilities at home and work, adjusting their schedules to accommodate both family and professional duties.
4. Emergency Childcare Services: In unexpected situations, support is provided to ensure employees can meet their work responsibilities without worrying about their children.
5. Parental Leave Policies: Policies that allow employees to spend time with their children boost morale by creating a workplace that values family.
Each workplace is unique, so the implementation of childcare bene its should consider multiple factors, including feasibility, employee preferences, and cost. Employers should collaborate with
Human Resources to develop a system that outlines the bene its provided, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.
Childcare bene its can signi icantly improve an employee's work-life balance, productivity, and job satisfaction. Employers will notice improvements in their company's image and better employee retention and recruitment.
While the advantages are clear, there are also challenges, primarily related to cost, whether from subsidies or maintaining an on-site childcare facility. To address this, employers can explore partnerships with local childcare providers or consider restructuring the organization to accommodate remote work setups.
Technological innovations are poised to revolutionize workplace childcare, with digital platforms offering lexibility and readily available services. These tools will eventually enable a workplace with streamlined childcare support, integrating seamlessly into any workplace culture.
Childcare bene its offer a solution to the challenges faced by modern parents in achieving work-life balance. The bene its are substantial for all parties involved, especially when implemented effectively. Policymakers and employers should prioritize the application of these practices to create a supportive system that bene its everyone.
Rebecca Sylvain is the Chief Executive Of icer of “Nannies & Kids United,” a B2B Childcare staf ing agency in Atlanta, USA. She began her career by baby-sitting for families while she was in college. She used her knowledge and experience of meeting the needs of the family and their children to create a staf ing agency which trained and hired associates who could provide
professional child-care services to families and corporate employees. Nannies & Kids United track record has landed them a corporate backup care partnership with care.com that has a platform of over 1 million sitters. The partnership provides childcare services to families and backup childcare services as a bene it for corporate employees.
In recent years, the integration of Arti icial Intelligence (AI) into the newsroom has become increasingly prevalent. A survey conducted last year revealed that over three-quarters of news organizations are utilizing AI in at least one aspect of their news value chain, including news gathering, production, and distribution. The adoption of AI in these areas is seen as a signi icant step towards enhancing the overall ef iciency and productivity of news operations.
The Columbia Journalism Review's recent study of 35 news
organizations further highlights the practical applications of AI in journalism. Contrary to the notion of AI as a panacea for all news-related tasks, the study found that the most bene icial uses of AI are relatively mundane, such as dynamic paywalls, transcription services, and data analysis tools in news production. Felix M. Simon, the author of the study, emphasizes that AI is far from being a magic solution and often comes with signi icant limitations.
The Pulitzer Prize for journalism has recently shed light on the actual extent of AI's integration into news reporting. Out of the 45 inalists, ive disclosed the use of AI in their submissions, marking a signi icant moment in the recognition of AI's role in journalism. The Pulitzer Board's decision to require entrants
to disclose AI usage re lects a desire to understand both the potential and the pitfalls of this technology in the ield of journalism.
Marjorie Miller, the Pulitzer Prize administrator, noted that the board aims to explore AI's capabilities and dangers without discouraging newsrooms from engaging with innovative technology. This approach underscores the importance of transparency and ethical considerations in the adoption of AI in journalism.
As the Pulitzer Prize winners are set to be announced on May 6, the discussion around AI in journalism continues. Felix M. Simon points out that news organizations that have invested in research, development, and talent are already ahead in the AI race. These "winners" are not only better positioned to leverage AI but also to negotiate favorable terms with technology companies.
In conclusion, while AI is transforming certain aspects of journalism, it is not a standalone solution. The interaction between technology, institutions, and societal forces plays a crucial role in shaping the future of journalism. As the industry navigates the complexities of AI integration, the focus remains on harnessing its potential responsibly and ethically.
Arecent report by Winterberry Group, titled "Demystifying The Data Layer," forecasts a signi icant increase in data investments, projecting a growth from $27 billion this year to $33.8 billion by 2027. This surge in spending is attributed to the burgeoning need for a privacy-compliant, secure, and actionable data layer, which is essential for consolidating and standardizing data for subsequent intelligence and activation.
The report emphasizes the strategic importance of data as an asset for driving business growth and enhancing customer experiences. It estimates a staggering $270 billion in U.S datadriven advertising spend for this year alone. As organizations navigate the evolving landscape, the development of an effective data layer is seen as crucial for the future of marketing and advertising.
However, the study reveals a disparity in investment trends across regions. Only 19% of U.S. organizations are signi icantly increasing their investments in data infrastructure and technology, compared to 60% in the U.K. and 35% in the EU. While 74% of U.S. companies are increasing their investments to some extent, the U.S. also has the highest percentage (7%) of irms maintaining their investment levels. This trend suggests that
spending on data infrastructure may have slowed down in the U.S. due to prior investments.
The research also explores the current solutions used by organizations to manage data. A majority (83%) use a CRM's engagement marketing platform, followed by 59% using a customer data platform, and 57% utilizing a data warehouse or data lake.
Despite these tools, companies face signi icant barriers in leveraging their data infrastructure for marketing and advertising, including data accuracy and quality (50%), security (41%), and cost (41%).
The report highlights the persistent challenge of "garbage in, garbage out," stressing the importance of accuracy, consistency, and validity in data. While advancements in AI have
alleviated some concerns related to incomplete data, issues such as siloed information, inconsistent formats, outdated data, and evolving privacy regulations continue to undermine data reliability. The study underscores the urgent need for marketers to address these challenges to fully capitalize on their data layer investments.
In conclusion, the Winterberry Group's report sheds light on the growing importance of data investments and the challenges that lie ahead for organizations aiming to harness the power of data for marketing and advertising purposes. As the data landscape continues to evolve, the journey toward a robust and effective data layer remains a critical endeavor for businesses seeking to thrive in the digital age.
The 2024 Digital Experience
Benchmark Report by Contentsquare reveals that marketers are facing signi icant challenges due to cost in lation and declining traf ic numbers. The report highlights a 9.4% increase in the cost per visit last year, prompting marketers to explore a variety of potential solutions. However, these solutions may inadvertently contribute to fundamental issues affecting digital journeys.
The report underscores the importance of addressing frustration in customer engagement, noting that friction in the digital experience impacted 2 out of every 5 user sessions in some way in 2023. Common sources of frustration include code-producing errors, slow page loads, multiple clicks, and low page activity. These
issues can harm SEO and contribute to higher bounce rates, ultimately affecting the customer experience.
The cumulative effect of unchecked frustration can be disastrous, potentially reducing the engagement and value of a visit by 15%. The report emphasizes the role of intention in bounce rates, highlighting the differences between paid search and paid social. Paid search traf ic, with a conversion rate of 2.55% and a bounce rate of 43.9%, outperforms paid social, which has a conversion rate of 0.61% and a bounce rate of 61.7%. This discrepancy underscores the importance of understanding user intent and tailoring landing pages accordingly.
Paid search visitors, who often have a clear idea of what they want, are
more likely to convert and less likely to bounce when landing deep within a site. In contrast, paid social traf ic is more prone to bouncing, indicating a less focused intent. The report suggests that for paid search visitors, a product or solution page is likely an appropriate landing spot.
In conclusion, the 2024 Digital Experience Benchmark Report by Contentsquare highlights the challenges marketers face in optimizing digital journeys amidst cost in lation and declining traf ic. Addressing customer frustration and understanding user intent are key to improving engagement and reducing bounce rates. As marketers navigate these challenges, focusing on the digital experience will be crucial for success in 2024.
