AWL Alumni Spotlight

Describe the six months you spent in the Bloombase experience for Advanced Women Leaders.
I look back at my time spent during the AWL experience as incredibly rewarding. It truly was unlike any other leadership development experience that I have been a part of. It challenged my way of thinking and gave me the tools to build a model for what strong leadership looks like for me. Sometimes it can be easy to overemphasize other’s definition of the “right way” or emulating what good looks like versus what looks right for you. The YOU part, matters. The pivot for me was Bloombase. For the first time I was building my vision and assessing the way I could build the culture I wanted to create. Throughout this process I was supported by a group of exceptional women and leaders who were digging into their vision. This process is a never-ending journey- but I continue to go back to the tools, resources, and people I gained through this.

Describe the benefits of the AWL experience. 
We all wear so many hats- wife, mom, sister, etc. and it can be hard to stop and focus 100% on yourself. The AWL experience forced me to carve out time that was ALL ABOUT ME. Personal development is incredibly important to me and always has been, but I found myself taking less and less time devoted to growth. This experience is about fully immersing yourself in topics that all leaders struggle with, next to women who have walked a mile in your shoes. I instantly had a network of strong leaders to share with and learn from. It was a game changer.

Describe the benefits of being a part of the post AWL community.
This community has supported me, challenged me, and cheered for me. It gave me access to a broadened network of strong female leaders in different industries, companies, and backgrounds. I love learning from these women and having a community in my corner.

What would you say to someone else considering this experience?
THE TIME IS NOW!  There will never be a time where you aren’t balancing one million things- it’s what we do as women.  What I can promise is that the AWL experience will meet you where you are, will challenge you, and most importantly will support you through every step on the journey you are on. If I had waited (which was my initial intention) until a better time, three years ago- I know I would still be waiting. Go for it!

What is the greatest ROI for this investment you made in yourself?
Throughout this journey the biggest return on investment was the clarity I gained on who I am as a leader, and perhaps even more important, who I want to be. Who I am as a leader at work, home, with friends - they all influence how I show up daily. Within this AWL setting, surrounded by strong leaders with many different perspectives and backgrounds, I was able to really dig deep and assess those things that I identify as strengths and lead with them. In the same way, I earned a healthy perspective on how to manage those things I struggle with, and then return my focus to where I thrive. It has now been over two years since I went through the AWL experience and I am still seeing this ROI!

I feel like I am fulfilling my purpose when I am… inspiring others to be their best. 

My favorite way to spend an afternoon by myself is… at my happy place — the lake. 

To me, leadership is… inspiration that leads to Impact.

What gets me out of bed in the morning? My family for sure! My husband Paul, daughter Quinn, and two son’s Landon and Crew make every day (even the hardest ones) worth it!

The legacy that I want to leave is… you can do it all- being a strong leader, mom, wife- you don’t have to choose.