Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Jordan Maharaj, Executive Director, San Diego Rotary Club / San Diego Rotary Club Foundation. Jordan shares her journey, highlighting her empathetic nature and the challenges she faced as a young professional in development. She discusses the impact of mentors, particularly Chuck Pretto, on her career. During the pandemic, Jordan empha...
Mar 06, 2025•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Starla Lewis, Life Mastery Coach/Professor. Starla Lewis, also Professor Emeritus, discusses her journey and the importance of self-validation. She emphasizes the significance of self-love and self-acceptance, sharing her book "I am my own self validation" and its impact on participants. Starla highlights the need for women to see them...
Feb 28, 2025•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Cyndi Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of Fierce and Kind Spirits. Cyndi Smith shared her journey from a high school teacher to a corporate executive and now an entrepreneur. She discussed the company's mission to support economic equity and leadership in underserved communities through their spirits brand. Fierce and Kind Spirits launched in...
Feb 21, 2025•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Grace Kelly Ayala, CEO and Founder of Muñecas Desserts. Kelly Ayala shared her journey in the dessert business, inspired by her passion for baking. Starting at 13, she worked in her family's taco business before branching out to create Moon Yakas, offering desserts in Oceanside and catering to Frida's locations. Diagnosed with lupus at...
Feb 14, 2025•28 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Kristin Tillquist, Attorney, Kristin Tillquist Performance Consulting. Kristin Tillquist shared her journey from a small town in Canada to various career paths, including law school, working in the Czech Republic, and serving as Chief of Staff for a mayor. She emphasized the importance of curiosity, authenticity, and saying "yes" to op...
Jan 31, 2025•43 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Laura Munkholm, President/ Co-Founder, Walla . Laura Munkholm discusses her journey from teaching yoga to building a software platform for the fitness industry. She highlights the challenges of balancing family and career, the importance of support systems, and the necessity of adapting to constant changes in technology. Laura emphasiz...
Jan 23, 2025•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Cristina Versari, CEO/ Founder, San Diego University for Integrative Studies. Dr. Christina Versari, founder and CEO of San Diego University for Integrative Studies, shared her journey from a childhood influenced by strong women to becoming a pioneer in sports psychology. She discussed her early career in the NBA, overcoming gender bar...
Jan 17, 2025•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Kayla Schaffroth, CEO/ Founder, Project Performer Kayla shares her journey from a shy child who loved dancing and theater to a professional in the field. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, creativity, and self-belief, particularly in the face of rejection. Kayla discusses the challenges of balancing personal and professional ...
Dec 21, 2024•30 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Kristen Fogle, Executive Director, San Diego Writers, Ink. Kristen discusses her journey and leadership experiences. She emphasizes the importance of creativity, curiosity, and community in measuring success and balancing work with personal life. Kristen shares her early career challenges, including being underestimated due to her age ...
Dec 12, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Alexis Wohl, San Diego Humane Society. Dr. Wohl shares her journey from aspiring veterinarian to wildlife rehabilitation specialist, highlighting the importance of mentorship and resilience. She discusses the unique biodiversity of San Diego, the challenges of balancing work and personal life, and the significance of community enga...
Nov 14, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Tayyiba Haneef-Park, San Diego Mojo Head Coach Tayyiba Park, a three-time Olympian and Head Coach at San Diego Mojo, shared her journey from aspiring Olympian to achieving her dream. She discussed the challenges of balancing her athletic career with motherhood, particularly in 2012 when she had a two-year-old son. Tayy...
Nov 08, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we decided to serve up something so tasty that it was worth a second bite! Make sure to tune in to listen to Maya Madsen. Thank you for being part of the SheEO Lead-In Community!
Oct 31, 2024•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage, this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Pamela Gray Payton, Vice President, San Diego Foundation and Community Impact. Pamela discussed her journey and leadership style. She joined the foundation during the pandemic, focusing on the Covid Community Response Fund. She emphasized the foundation's efforts in health, educational, and economic equity. She also highlighted the Black...
Oct 24, 2024•39 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , in this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Dawn Hall Cunneen, President of North County Bar Association, Founding Partner of Cunneen Booth LLP. Dawn discusses her career and personal journey. She emphasizes the importance of having a trust to avoid probate, which can take 1-2 years and be public. Dawn highlights her passion for helping families after a loved one's passing and...
Oct 17, 2024•33 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage, in this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Guzel Lumpkin, Head of EVLUV. Guzel discusses her company's mission to make EV charging more convenient and accessible. EVLUV provides a platform for reserving EV charging stations, aiming to alleviate range anxiety and improve the EV ownership experience. Guzel shares her personal journey, including her move from Russia to the U.S. f...
Oct 10, 2024•35 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage, this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Shelly Zimmerman, Former Police Chief and Revered Leader of San Diego. Shelly Zimmerman shares her journey from Cleveland, Ohio, to becoming a police officer. She highlighted the evolution of law enforcement, including the deployment of body cameras and the impact of technology and social media. Shelly discusses the challenges posed by P...
Oct 03, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In , we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Anna Covrette, Non Profit Auctioneer. Anna discusses her unique career path and challenges in a male-dominated field. She started at 19, mentored by Clint Bell, and has since conducted numerous events. Anna emphasizes the importance of adaptability, humor, and building relationships with event planners and AV teams. She shares her exp...
Sep 27, 2024•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In , we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones , engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Lauren Lek, Head of The Academy of Our Lady of Peace. Lauren Lek, Head of School at The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, discusses her journey and the impact of choosing joy in her personal and professional life. She emphasizes the importance of finding one's passion and strength, and the value of overcoming challenges. Lauren highlights...
Sep 19, 2024•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In , we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Lisette Islas, CEO of Lifeline Community Services. When asked what makes her work fulfilling, Lisette explained that at Lifeline, they understand no one thrives alone; everyone depends on networks of support. Lifeline serves as a crucial part of that network for tens of thousands of San Diegans each year. She emphasized that the nonpro...
Sep 12, 2024•35 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Stephanie Cook, Executive Director of the San Diego Women's Foundation, who shares her insights on the power of collective philanthropy in advancing gender equality. Stephanie discusses the unique challenges women face in nonprofit leadership, including biases and unequal funding distribution, and emphasizes the importance of inclusive ...
Sep 05, 2024•33 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Kimberly White-Smith, Dean of USD SOLES, about overcoming obstacles in leadership, especially for marginalized communities. Kimberly and Rebecca share their personal journeys of resilience and self-discovery, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals. The discussion also explores the crucial ...
Aug 29, 2024•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Ana Hutz, CEO of Namaste Fitness. Rebecca Jones and Ana Hutz share their personal and professional experiences of overcoming obstacles and finding resilience. Rebecca discusses her determination to pursue her goals despite setbacks, while Ana shares a childhood story of being replaced as the Virgin Mary in a Christmas play, illustrating...
Aug 22, 2024•33 min•Transcript available on Metacast Presented by SmartStop Self Storage , this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In we listen to our host, Rebecca Jones, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with Nicole Gates, Vice President, Legal, Dr. Seuss Enterprises. Nicole and Rebecca share their experiences in setting boundaries in professional relationships, prioritizing commitments, and managing time effectively. Nicole discusses personal and professional growth, emphasizing adaptability, resilience, and learning from mistakes. Rebecca a...
Aug 16, 2024•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Elsa Morales-Roth, Executive Director of the Emilio Nares Foundation. Rebecca and Elsa emphasize the importance of women's empowerment in leadership roles, highlighting the need for inclusivity, resilience, and solidarity. They encourage young women to be their authentic selves and support each other. Rebecca expresses admiration for the Emilio Nares Foundation, a nonprofit organization sup...
Aug 01, 2024•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Licia Vaughn from DLA Piper. Licia and Rebecca delve into the various challenges women in law face, including balancing work and family responsibilities, seeking diverse perspectives, and building confidence. They emphasize the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and modeling a supportive work culture to create a high-achieving environment for women. The conversation explores the value...
Jul 25, 2024•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Sandra Coufal, CEO of Toragen. Sandra and Rebecca share their experiences in healthcare and biotech, emphasizing the importance of resilience, growth, and communication. Sandra discusses her journey as a CEO and physician, while Rebecca shares her personal journey in oncology research. Together, they delve into the challenges of gender bias in leadership roles, the significance of persevera...
Jul 18, 2024•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Adriana Zizo, Owner and Chef of Not Your Nonna’s Sauce. Adriana shares her passion for continuing her family's legacy through her unique pasta sauce company, blending traditional cooking methods with modern flavor profiles. Rebecca and Adriana delve into their experiences in the food industry, highlighting the importance of authenticity, quality, and unique offerings. Adriana discusses the ...
Jul 11, 2024•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Holly Smithson, President and CEO of Athena. Athena's mission is to advance 1 million women in STEM , by 2030. With only 1 in 4 STEM jobs held by women, their challenge is to educate and advocate for closing the gender gap and seeding greater innovation through diversity. Holly went from running a global leadership lab to running a proverbial crime lab now that multiple state's enacted legi...
Jun 27, 2024•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Lisa Stout from Project Next. Project Next has grown from a scholarship program into a comprehensive initiative that assists high school students in planning and preparing for their future endeavors. Lisa and Rebecca explore the crucial connection between education and local businesses, highlighting how this collaboration provides students with valuable career insights and opportunities. Th...
Jun 20, 2024•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this week's episode of SheEO Lead-In, host Rebecca Jones welcomes Jessica Cvetic from Citrus Aesthetics for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Jessica shares her personal journey, from childhood memories and the influence of her mother's resilience to the challenges and triumphs of opening her own medical aesthetics clinic. Rebecca and Jessica delve into the nuances of personal and professional growth as women, discussing the significance of strong client relationships and the technica...
Jun 13, 2024•35 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
