On the BWC Backstory podcast Darlene Akers, along with cohosts Dr. Deb Kerr and Jolene Levin, sits down with Cheryl Durst, EVP & CEO of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), to uncover her remarkable leadership journey.

She shares how her path prepared her to:

• Bring the power of storytelling and words into design

• Elevate education and access as central to her work

• Lead with authenticity, transparency, and resilience

• Inspire joy, curiosity, and listening as essential skills

With vision, courage, and a lifelong love of learning, Cheryl shows how saying “yes” to opportunities can shape a legacy of impact.

Recorded following EDmarket’s BWC live virtual event.