Women of Influence by SheSpeaks

Rikki Marler, Vice President of Client Development at Pēq, joins Women of Influence to share how she helps brands move beyond surface-level metrics to understand the true incremental impact of their campaigns. With a background in shopper marketing and lessons learned from early mentors, Rikki talks about why today’s marketers need real-time insights, how transparency has guided her career, and the importance of staying curious when navigating change. Episode Highlights: Links and Resources Connect with Rikki Marler on LinkedIn Connect with Pēq on LinkedIn Learn more about Pēq Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

Ad fraud and data privacy are changing the way advertisers and consumers interact. In this episode of Women of Influence, Nina Talcott, Director of Research Communications and Media Entertainment at Pixalate, explains how fraud drains billions from the industry, what new privacy laws mean for consumers, and why transparency is critical. She also shares her perspective on influence, the value of mentorship, and the advice she would give her younger self. Episode Highlights: Links and Resources Connect with Nina Talcott on LinkedIn Connect with Pixalate on LinkedIn Learn More about Pixalate Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

Retail media is rewriting the rules of marketing, and Cyndi Loza is here to break it all down. As Senior Editor at Path to Purchase Institute, she shares what brands need to know about AI, shopper behavior, and why in-store still matters more than you think. Cyndi also reflects on her journalism roots, defining influence, and navigating work-life balance as a parent and professional. Episode Highlights Connect with Cyndi Loza on LinkedIn Connect with Path to Purchase Institute on LinkedIn Learn more about Path to Purchase Institute Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

Diane Schwartz, CEO of Ragan Communications, breaks down one of the year’s most viral PR moments—the Coldplay concert “Crisis Cam”—and shares what brands should do when leadership missteps play out in public. She also reflects on becoming Ragan’s first female CEO, why internal communications is more important than ever, and how leaders can build trust, influence, and confidence at every level. From the value of in-person connection to what today’s employees want most, this episode delivers practical insights for communicators navigating a changing workplace. Episode Highlights Links and Resources Connect with Diane Schwartz on LinkedIn Connect with Ragan Communications on LinkedIn Learn more about Ragan Communications Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

OLLY's presence in-store is powerful. It's digital strategy? Even more so—and Jennifer Peters is making it all click. As Director of DTC, Martech, + Digital Compliance at OLLY, Jennifer Peters is helping one of the most recognizable wellness brands deepen its relationship with consumers—both online and off. In this episode, she shares how OLLY is bridging the gap between shelf and screen, redefining loyalty in a retail-first world, and keeping customer empathy at the center of it all. Jennifer also reflects on her 13 years at Barnes & Noble, how tech is transforming customer feedback into action, and the advice she gives every rising professional looking to build a meaningful, long-term career. Episode Highlights DTCCPG brandsreceipt scanninghybrid shopper. loyalty who it’s really for.being where your customer shopsbuilding influenceThis episode is packed with practical advice, big-brand insights, and career lessons you’ll actually use. Links and Resources Connect with Jennifer Peters on LinkedIn Connect with OLLY on Linkedin Learn more about OLLY Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we’re joined by Amberle Thompson, Senior Sales Director for Walmart and Sam’s Club at The Heineken Company, overseeing a team that helps ensure products make it to shelves across the country. Amberle shares her journey into the CPG and alcohol industry, demystifies how distribution works in the U.S., and explores how data and consumer trends drive innovation. She also reflects on raising three daughters while building her career, the power of networks, and why influence is knowing when you have it—and when you need to build it. Episode Highlights real-time dataconsumer trendsalcohol distribution U.S. three-tier system COVID bumpCPGleadershipcareer growthnetwork influencemeaningful changelead effectivelyAmberle shares real-world insights for navigating leadership and driving innovation within and outside the CPG industry. Links and Resources Connect with Amberle Thompson on LinkedIn Learn more about The Heineken Company Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we’re joined by Aimee Baller, Head of Partnerships, West & Central at Overwolf—the engine behind the gaming creator ecosystem that’s reshaping how brands connect with modern audiences. Aimee reflects on her path into gaming as the first female leader on Overwolf’s Brand Partnerships team, exploring the power of in-game advertising, why brands can’t ignore gaming culture, and how Gen Z is rewriting the rules of media. She also offers thoughtful insights on mentorship, leadership, and creating space for other women in male-dominated industries. Episode Highlights Slim Jim Smucker’simpactintention.modern gamers40%nichewhere they actually are.moment-triggered 70% brand recall.Gen Z as creators shape the plotwomen don’t need to waitadditive—not disruptive—spaceAimee’s perspective cuts through the noise—offering real-world advice for anyone navigating today’s fast-moving landscape of culture, technology, and consumer connection. Links and Resources Connect with Aimee Baller on LinkedIn Connect with Overwolf on LinkedIn Learn more about Overwolf Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we’re joined by Shaquana Joseph, Strategic Account Director at Group Black, a media collective dedicated to bridging the gap between today’s most influential consumers and the brands that want to reach them. Shaquana shares her inspiring journey from college radio at Howard University to leading game-changing brand partnerships at Group Black. She unpacks how Gen Z is rewriting the rules of influence, why authenticity matters more than ever, and how brands can build lasting loyalty by showing up with purpose. Episode Highlights radio and agency lifeculturally impactful campaigns.Group BlackGen Z doesn’t play by the old rulesadapt or fall behind.nano-influencerpeer influenceexperiential marketingTwitterentrepreneur.making a lasting impactShaquana’s insights are smart, actionable, and inspiring—whether you’re in marketing, leadership, or just figuring out how to make your voice matter in a noisy world. Links and Resources: Connect with Shaquana Joseph on LinkedIn Learn more about Group Black Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Chase Cooper, omnichannel marketing leader at Dorel Juvenile, one of the largest baby product companies in the world (behind brands like Safety 1st, Maxi-Cosi, Tiny Love, and Walmart’s exclusive Monbébé). Chase shares her remarkable journey from starting out in the agency world to now leading U.S. media efforts across Dorel's brands — and how she’s weaving motherhood into her career path along the way. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Chase's career pathomnichannel marketingcuriosity and asking "why"Monbébé stroller launch at Walmartviral moment4.6 million viewsorganic and paid mediaKey consumer insightnavigating career and motherhoodtrusting your gutChase’s insights on authenticity, collaboration, and evolving with the consumer journey will leave you energized — whether you’re in marketing, leadership, or navigating your own life and career. Links & Resources: Connect with Chase Cooper on LinkedIn See the viral Monbébé 360° Travel System post. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this conversation! Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we welcome Erica Lockheimer. Known for her remarkable career in tech, Erica shares insights from her career journey at LinkedIn, where she not only played a crucial role in the growth of the platform, but also founded the Women in Tech initiative. Erica shares her story and challenges she faced as one of the few women in her field. We discuss the pivotal moments that led her to redefine success on her own terms, breaking away from expectations to pursue what she had a passion for. Now, as the founder and CEO of HumanizeHer, Erica is passionate about cultivating a world where women can thrive and shatter glass ceilings. Tune in to discover Erica's journey, her thoughts on the evolving role of LinkedIn, and her vision for women in tech and careers beyond. This episode is inspiring and a must-listen for anyone looking to follow their own path and possibilities. Episode Highlights: Redefining Success:LinkedIn's Evolution:AI and Diversity: Empowering Women:Key Quotes: “You better have diverse people at the table, building products, because representation matters in everything we create.”“We can’t be our best-kept secrets—women’s voices need platforms to be heard and celebrated.”“I never worked harder, but I’ve never enjoyed my work more than I do now.”Connect with Erica and HumanizeHer: https://www.instagram.com/humanizehernow/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericalockheimer/https://www.instagram.com/humanizehernow/https://www.youtube.com/@HumanizeHerWant more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we sit down with PR powerhouse Heidi Krupp, a master publicist and brand strategist with decades of experience shaping bestselling books and personal brands. From working at ABC’s 20/20 to launching her own successful agency, she shares her journey, the art of storytelling in PR, and what it takes to craft a message that resonates. We also dive into the current media buzz surrounding the Justin Baldoni & Blake Lively case, breaking down what people get wrong about publicists and the blurred lines in today’s media landscape. Plus, hear the fascinating story of how she started her business with just $5,000—and how that risk turned into a career working with icons like Tony Robbins, Dr. Stephen Covey, and more. Key Highlights: ✅ Why storytelling, consistency, and relationships are the true keys to building a lasting brand—and how you can apply these principles to your own success. ✅ Lessons learned from interning at ABC’s 20/20 and working with Barbara Walters ✅ The role of a publicist: understanding what the role entails & what the job is ✅ How to turn a book into a brand (and a business!) ✅ The truth about the PR industry and the media’s changing landscape ✅ The surprising way she funded her first business ✅ The impact of mentors and the power of personal branding Key Links: Follow Heidi at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-krupp/ https://www.kruppagency.com/ Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we sit down with Terri Cole, a best-selling author, licensed psychotherapist, relationship expert, and empowerment coach. We discuss Terri's career transition, her work (and first book) on setting boundaries, and her expertise in high-functioning codependency. You will learn what is high-functioning codependency (HFC) and learn how you can recognize and address your own codependent behaviors, set healthy boundaries and have better relationships. Terri shares tangible tips and takeaways to help you change the way you approach relationships today, so grab a pen and paper! Episode Highlights: Boundary Boss. Follow Terri & Learn More: Get your free resources, order Terri's book(s) and sign up to stay connected at: https://www.terricole.com/hfc/ Learn more about Terri by visiting: https://www.terricole.com/ Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we dive into a world of storytelling, resilience, and sports with Jamie Mittelman, the voice behind the award-winning podcast Flamebearers. Flamebearers amplifies the stories of women Olympians and Paralympians from around the world, shining a light on the intersection of sports, gender equity, and human perseverance. Jamie shares how her Harvard experience and passion for amplifying underrepresented voices led to the creation of this groundbreaking podcast. You’ll hear the inspiration behind Flamebearers and the mission to elevate the stories of women athletes, the challenges faced by women in sports media and how they are breaking barriers, as well as the unique stories for resilience, diversity and triumph by women in athletics. Episode Highlights: Flamebearers🎧 Tune in now and follow Jamie & Flamebearers below for more information: Website: https://flamebearers.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3a5dMGFv0_Q Connect with Jamie Mittelman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiemittelman/ Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we hear from Kendra Adachi, the bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way to discuss compassionate time management. Kendra shares her journey from perfectionism to finding balance, introducing her transformative framework: "Be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t." We explore actionable strategies for prioritizing what truly matters, embracing small steps, and showing kindness to ourselves in every season of life. Key Highlights: The Origin:The Myth of Productivity:Naming What Matters:Compassionate Time Management: More about Kendra: Kendra Adachi is a two-time New York Times bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way, The Lazy Genius Kitchen and The PLAN and host of nationally ranked The Lazy Genius Podcast. As an expert in compassionate time management, Kendra helps others stop doing it all for the sake of doing what matters. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and three kids. You can learn more and follow Kendra at: https://www.thelazygeniuscollective.com/ Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

The college admissions process has changed drastically, and so has the reality of what students face once they’re admitted. In this episode, our guest Jennifer shares her expert insights into the challenges of the modern education landscape, the post-pandemic impact on students, and what parents can do to set their kids up for success—not just in college, but in life. We cover practical strategies, the importance of resilience, and how to embrace a growth mindset to thrive academically and professionally. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Links & Resources Jennifer’s website:https://www.jgtalks.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jgtalksorg/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gershberg-99bb409b/Course:https://jgtalks.thinkific.com/Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Brusca, the Chief Communications Officer at Forbes and President of New York Women in Communications (NYWICI). Laura shares her inspiring journey from her early days in communications to becoming a leader in the industry. We dive into her career path, the challenges she’s faced, and the lessons she’s learned. She offers advice for young professionals entering the field, discusses the value of building networks, and emphasizes the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to grow personally and professionally. Highlights from this Episode: The Role of a Chief Communications Officer:Career Path Insights:The Value of Networking:Overcoming Challenges:Advice for Young Professionals:Self-Compassion and Growth: Follow Laura Brusca: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurabrusca/ Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

Did you know that Latina women earn only 53 cents to every dollar compared to men and hold a mere 2% of executive positions despite being 9% of the U.S. population? In this episode of Women of Influence, we welcome Cynthia Kleinbaum Milner and Claudia Romo Edelman, two powerhouse Latinas championing the cause for Latina representation in leadership roles. With a lack of visible role models and adequate networking opportunities, Latinas face unique challenges. Cynthia and Claudia share their personal stories, the mission behind their cause and podcast, A La Latina, and the importance of changing the narrative around Latinas in the U.S. This episode is a deep dive into breaking barriers, flipping the script on biases, and promoting leadership. Key Highlights from the Episode: Links & Resources Want to learn more & follow? Claudia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiaromoedelman/ Cynthia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-kleinbaum-milner-63685b2/ Website: https://www.alalatina.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alalatinapodcast/ Learn more about the Hispanic Leadership Summit and Hispanic Star Gala https://www.hispanicstar.org/hls https://www.hispanicstar.org/gala Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this fun episode, our guest Laurie Schacht, the President & Chief Toy Officer at Toy Insider, gives us an inside look into the toy industry and how she got her start. Laurie shares her unique story, from growing up rooted in the toy business to unexpectedly taking over her father's business, reestablishing The Toy Book and launching The Toy Insider. Laurie discusses the evolution of toys, key industry trends, and what to expect in the upcoming holiday season. Plus, she offers an exclusive sneak peek into what’s hot for 2025. Key Takeaways Laurie’s Start in the Industry:The Toy BookThe Toy InsiderThe Toy BookThe Toy InsiderChanges in the Toy Industry:The Role of Influencers:Hot Toy Trends for 2024/2025:Memorable Stories:The Today ShowLinks & Resources https://www.instagram.com/thetoyinsider/https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoyinsiderThe Toy Insiderhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-schacht-b3b5035/ Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

Over the past 2 years, the SheSpeaks podcast has shared the stories of amazing women. Recently, we announced a new name, Women of Influence. We’re excited about this shift as we feel it defines best what we have always done and continue to do, amplify the stories and experiences of amazing women. We realized the common thread through our conversations was women using their influence to build, to grow, to share and inspire. All of these amazing women, be it founders, CEOs, authors, experts, celebrities, and change-makers have done just that. As we head into new episodes, we will continue to have conversations, learn from women, hear their stories, and see how their influence is effecting change and inspiring others. Join us as we revisit some standout moments from episodes over the years: From Baby Jars to Beauty Bars with Lisa Price Lisa Price, the founder of Carol's Daughter, shared her inspiring journey of becoming an "accidental entrepreneur." Despite not having a business background, Lisa turned her hobby into a thriving beauty empire. Tackling Teenage Mental Health with Lisa Damore Expert Lisa Damore provided eye-opening insights into teenage mental health - from understanding healthy anxiety to addressing the commercialization of wellness. Evolving at Any Age with Stacey London Stacey London of TLC's What Not to Wear fame inspired us by discussing her journey to pivot her career and create a voice for midlife women. She spoke about the importance of personal agency and the freedom to evolve at any stage in life. Rethinking Beauty Standards with Jessica Defino Jessica Defino shined a light on the problematic aspects of the beauty industry. She discussed how the industry has co-opted the concept of beauty and commoditized it, making it a struggle for many to attain the standards. Transparency in Influencing with Kristen Sellentin Kristen Sellentin's viral reel revealed her earnings as a content creator, sparking a positive conversation about transparency and success in the influencer world. She emphasized that it's never too late to pivot your career and find success. Want to listen to all the episodes featured here? Lisa Price - From Baby Jars to Beauty Bars: The Rise of Carol’s Daughter Dr. Lisa Damour - Teenage Mental Health and Social Media Stacy London - Evolving at Any Age Jessica DeFino - Changing the Conversation Round Beauty Kristen Sellentin - Why this Creator Revealed Her 6 Figure Earnings for the Year Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this episode, our conversation centers around menopause — something that affects millions of women worldwide yet is often misunderstood and under-discussed. Our guest, Tamsen Fadal, is an advocate for menopause education, sharing insights into the community for women she is creating, her upcoming documentary and book. From the lack of research to the ongoing stigma and limited understanding in both healthcare and the workplace, we explore the challenges women face during this life stage and the growing movement to provide better resources, support and early education. Join us as we discuss: We also discuss Tamsen's Upcoming documentary with PBS: The M Factor. You can get more information here: https://www.tamsenfadal.com/the-m-factor You can also pre-order Tamsen's upcoming book, How to Menopause here: https://www.tamsenfadal.com/howtomenopause More about Tamsen: Tamsen Fadal is an award-winning journalist, menopause advocate, filmmaker and a content creator. She recently left her 30- year career as a news anchor to dedicate herself to rewriting the narrative for women in midlife. Links and Resources: Website: TamsenFadal.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamsenfadal/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamsenfadal/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tamsenfadal Documentary: https://www.tamsenfadal.com/the-m-factor Pre-Order Book https://www.tamsenfadal.com/howtomenopause Enter to win a copy of the book at SheSpeaks.com Want more from SheSpeaks? * Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * @shespeaksup podcast@shespeaks.comYouTube @SheSpeaksTV