InfluenceHER

Sujata Chaudhry, founder and CEO of Tangible Development, is a global educator, mom and leader in diversity, equity and inclusion.

In our latest episode, she shares how growing up across cultures shaped her worldview, what inspired her to build a career in DEI and the moments where her work has made a real impact.

Sujata also reflects on stepping down as CEO, what her next chapter holds and how she will continue driving change in her community.

On this episode of InfluenceHER, Megan Baker talks with Kelly Reilly Marx, founder of Grace Stables and child welfare advocate.

Kelly shares how her lifelong love of horses shaped her leadership, the inspiration behind Grace Stables and lessons in resilience, patience and strength from both her work with children and her equestrian journey.

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker welcomes Brittany Kearney, founder and managing partner of Kearney Law in Tampa, Florida. Kearney shares what led her into the legal profession and the decision to launch her own firm, along with the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

The conversation explores how Kearney Law’s wide-ranging practice areas are unified by a client-first philosophy, the importance of building a strong team and the firm’s bold “Not Your Daddy’s Law Firm” approach. Kearney also discusses balancing leadership, motherhood and community involvement and offers advice for women navigating career growth whi...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sat down with Teddy Foster, Director of Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. Teddy’s story begins in Fishkill, New York, where early family challenges shaped her grit, compassion and unshakable determination. From a high-achieving childhood to a long chapter in the corporate world, Teddy ultimately found her calling in community development and the arts.

Tune in to hear her share how restoring UPH became both a professional mission and a personal lifeline, the moments that defined her leadership and the full-circle milestones that shaped who she is...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sat down with Teddy Foster, Director of Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. Teddy’s story begins in Fishkill, New York, where early family challenges shaped her grit, compassion and unshakable determination. From a high-achieving childhood to a long chapter in the corporate world, Teddy ultimately found her calling in community development and the arts.

Tune in to hear her share how restoring UPH became both a professional mission and a personal lifeline, the moments that defined her leadership and the full-circle milestones that shaped who she is...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sits down with Terri Balliet—child welfare leader, nonprofit innovator and candidate for St. Petersburg City Council. From her early work as a case manager to launching the internationally recognized CALL program, Terri has dedicated her career to protecting children, strengthening families and building safer communities.

Now, as head of the Children’s Network of Hillsborough, she continues to drive bold reforms in adoption, prevention and human trafficking prevention. Terri shares what fuels her passion, the challenges she’s faced and her vision for creating lasting change throug...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sits down with Julie McBride—former Syracuse standout, international pro and now head coach of Hoosac Prep’s girls varsity basketball team. Julie shares her remarkable journey from competing on courts around the world to leading and inspiring the next generation of athletes.

She reflects on lessons from her 15-year professional career, the challenges and triumphs of coaching, and the values that guide her as a mentor. This conversation dives into leadership, resilience and the power of sport to shape confident, empowered young women.

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sits down with Maria Brady, entrepreneur, author and Certified Energy Codes Coach, whose story is a testament to the power of positivity and purpose. After facing a life-threatening cancer diagnosis, Maria transformed her journey into a mission to help others embrace joy, launching ichosehappy.live and an inspirational gift line. Tune in as Maria shares how she built a business rooted in resilience, the meaning behind choosing happy, and her advice for finding light even in life’s darkest moments.

In this heartfelt episode of InfluenceHER, we welcome Mary Colwell, attorney and co-founder of the Colwell Law Group in Upstate New York. Mary shares her powerful story of navigating unimaginable grief after the loss of her husband, Kevin Colwell, while continuing to lead her firm with courage and purpose.

Her journey is a moving testament to love, resilience, and the unwavering strength of women in leadership. Tune in to hear how Mary is honoring Kevin’s legacy and inspiring others through her unwavering commitment and grace.

When Meaghan Smith became a caregiver to her husband at a young age, her life changed in ways she never expected.

Now an author, she shares her deeply personal journey through caregiving, grief and ultimately, the rediscovery of love. Her journey offers a moving reminder that even in our darkest moments, healing and new beginnings are possible.

Jerilee Beaudoin is the newly appointed President and CEO of Sunmark Credit Union, who brings over 34 years of experience in the financial services industry.

She sat down with Megan Baker in the studio to share her inspiring journey to the top, the evolution of the industry, and how her leadership style has been shaped by both experience and education. This episode is a conversation full of leadership lessons, resilience and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

Jenna Bosi has devoted her career to creating safe spaces for children, women, and families in need. Based in Pittsburgh, Pa., she is the founder of 412 Foster Project and brings over ten years of experience in acute mental health, child welfare, and nonprofit management. After working in child welfare, Jenna left her full-time position to launch 412 Foster Project with the goal of bridging gaps in mental health services and providing much-needed support for children and families.

Deshanna C. Wiggins is an Albany native with a passion for service. As the CEO of the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce, Deshanna is dedicated to empowering and supporting minority-owned small businesses.

Since taking the helm, Deshanna has helped grow the Chamber to over 100 members. In this episode, she sits down with Megan Baker to discuss her journey back home, her wealth of experience and how she's using her expertise to create lasting change in her community.

It’s been an incredible year for our podcast, filled with inspiring stories and remarkable guests. We’re so grateful to everyone who shared their journeys and insights with us.

Take a look back at the highlights from our 2024 episodes featuring Kimberly Adams Russell, Allianna Moximchalk, Monica Kurzejeski, Jackie Zumba, Priya Winston, Dr. Sandra Braham, Francine Apy, Terese LaVallee, Elisa Caro and Christian Hardigree!

Christian Hardigree has served as the regional chancellor of the University of South Florida’s St. Petersburg campus since May 2022. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, she is deeply committed to fostering strong community connections. During her first fall semester at USF, Hurricane Ian struck, and she seized the moment to establish protocols for handling natural disasters, including implementing a buddy system.

In this episode, Christian sits down with Megan Baker to share her journey of relocating her family to St. Petersburg, how she strives to be a role model for USF students and more!

November is National Adoption Month! As the founder of SoulFilling, Francine Apy works with families as an Adoptive Parent Coach, where she uses her own experience to serve as a resource and sounding board to anyone interested in adoption.

She joined Megan Baker to discuss how she aspires to be a beacon of hope for anyone on an adoption journey. Join SoulFilling in several local events to celebrate National Adoption Awareness Month (NAAM) during the month of November: https://www.soulfillingadoption.com/post/national-adoption-awareness-month-events-2024

In anticipation of Children's Grief Awareness Month this November, we are welcoming Terese LaVallee, Director of the Highmark Caring Place on this month's episode!

She joined Megan Baker in Pittsburgh to discuss the meaningful impact that the Caring Place has on children and adults suffering from grief.

With over 20 years of nonprofit experience, Dr. Sandra Braham strives to connect people with the services they need to succeed.

She joined Megan Baker in St. Petersburg to discuss how her past experiences and the support of others led her to her calling in the human services field.

Dr. Priya Winston works every day to break down barriers for youth and young adults with Autism and other learning differences. She joined Megan Baker in our studio to discuss her story and the importance of being a role model to those she inspires.

Dr. Priya Winston works every day to break down barriers for youth and young adults with Autism and other learning differences. She joined Megan Baker in our studio to discuss her story and the importance of being a role model to those she inspires.

Dr. Priya Winston works every day to break down barriers for youth and young adults with Autism and other learning differences. She joined Megan Baker in our studio to discuss her story and the importance of being a role model to those she inspires.

Jackie Zumba is the Founder and Owner of Jackie Z style company. She has used her personal experiences and hardships to drive her success from a young age.

She joined Megan Baker in St. Petersburg to discuss what drives her and how to continually evolve in the trending marketplace.

Jennifer Goldstock is a nurse practitioner with SynRG integrative health and wellness. She is helping women from all walks of life live a healthier lifestyle and she brings her own experiences to the forefront.

Jennifer joined Megan Baker in our studio to discuss a topic in women's health that is a mystery to many, menopause.

Elisa Caro understands the importance of communications – whether it is working with clients to establish customizable telecom solutions or helping to mold the next generation of business leaders.

Elisa sat down with Megan Baker in Saint Petersburg, Florida to discuss how she uses her experience to mentor the next generation and shares some advice for young professionals.

Dr. Kristie Bowers is no stranger to being the first. She is the current Associate Vice President and first female Director of Athletics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Stream this episode to find out more about her journey to making HERstory.

Introducing the newly appointed Executive Director of the Albany Convention Center Authority, Monica Kurzejeski!

Monica joined Megan Baker at the Albany Capital Center to talk about her vision for the capital region in her new role and the need for fresh starts.

Tune in to meet Monica and learn more about her journey to new beginnings and job roles.

This month's guest took her health into her own hands while empowering others to do the same, through food!

Allianna Moximchalk joins Megan Baker to talk about healthy habits and small changes you can make that can lead to big changes in your health!

Tune in to meet Allianna and learn more about how she turned her illness into a thriving business.

When starting at her family’s jeweler business in 1990, Kimberly Adams Russell was only allowed to sell merchandise on the “women’s side” of the store. Today, she is the President of Frank Adams Jewelers.

Megan Baker sat down with Kimberly to discuss one of the most recognizable family-owned businesses in the Capital Region and her experiences working alongside her family. Tune in now!

It's been an incredible year and our podcast has had many amazing guests. Thank you to all of the inspiring guests who have used our platform to share their stories. Check out the top five most viewed episodes of 2023!

Our guest this month, Michele de la Reza, has traveled nationally and globally performing her love of dance and expression. She co-founded Attack Theatre in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to continue to spread her love for the arts and continues to educate the next generations of future artists.

This month we are shining light on the sensitive topics of Breast Cancer and Infidelity. This is an inspiring story about love, heart break, resilience, and healing through two life changing circumstances. 💪💔🎗️

On this inspiring episode of InfluenceHER, Megan Baker sits down with Breast Cancer survivor, Gina Tronco, as they dive deep into the emotions that come along with the shocking truth of infidelity, while fighting a life-threatening diagnosis.

She imagined she could, and she did! Kiya Tomlin is so much more than just the wife of Pittsburgh Steelers current head coach, Mike Tomlin. She has built an empire and continues to take the fashion industry by storm! A mom first, she is an entrepreneur and opened her store in 2014 once her children were older. She is using her talents to give women the opportunity to feel more confident in the clothes they are wearing without limitation or restriction.

Join us in welcoming Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh on this month's episode of InfluenceHER! She serves on the 112th assembly district, which includes parts of Saratoga, Schenectady, and Fulton Counties, as the assistant minority leader. Tune in to hear her perspective as one of three women in the minority conference who is working towards change and inspiring women to get involved in politics.

#DidYouKnow Teresa originally came to the team as a player and played seven seasons with the Passion? She's using her experiences to carry out the mission of the Pittsburgh Passion which is to teach life lessons through sport. Join us in welcoming Teresa on this month's episode of Influenceher!

Join us in welcoming this month’s guest, Libby Post, as we kick off pride month! Libby, an Advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, sits down in our studio with Megan Baker to discuss the barriers being broken down, the strides that have been made, and the road ahead.

To this day, mental health is severely under studied in women. Our guest this month is working to fundamentally improve the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of depression in women. We're kicking off Mental Health Awareness Month with Mariam Khayretdinova! Tune in to find out how Mariam and her team at Brainify.AI are aiming to address female depression through their work.

InfluenceHER is kicking off Spring with an incredible “warrior” to ICU doctors and nurses, Marisa Akley! Marisa survived the unthinkable which inspired her with a new purpose for helping others along the way.

As pioneer in the juvenile justice system, Judge Kim Berkeley Clark shares her thoughts on navigating a society that has become focused on me and not we.

On this special episode of InfluenceHER, Lindsay Rae, an award-winning empowerment photographer turned body image activist shares how she is breaking society’s narrow-minded beauty standards with her ‘Self Love Experience’.