In this episode, Rebecca talks with Shelly Elliott, CEO of Holmatro, about leading a manufacturer of life-saving rescue equipment through decades of change. Elliott, a chemical engineer by training, traces her unconventional path from Exxon Mobil's refining world to Alcoa Arconic's window manufacturing and finally to Holmatro, where she leads a company that builds the cutter, spreader, and ram tools first responders use to extricate people from car crashes, and increasingly, forcible-entry tools for law enforcement and schools. She discusses Holmatro's decades-long partnership with IndyCar's safety team, what happens on scene in the critical minutes after a crash, and how she's helped broaden the company's mission beyond firefighters to military, federal, and law enforcement markets.

They also dig into Elliott's leadership philosophy, from the six core values that guide hiring and strategy at Holmatro, to a defining moment early in her tenure when she halted production over a quality concern rather than hit a revenue target. Elliott shares how team sports shaped her approach to leadership, how motherhood and a supportive partner have reshaped her relationship with work, and the advice she'd give to other women and to her own younger self about taking risks, changing course, and staying grounded through it all.

Rebecca Snyder sits down with Dr. Pam Love, Board Chair of Executive Alliance and President and Chief Learning Officer of DP Love Enterprises, for a conversation about “disrupting excuses” and what it takes to move past the stories and limiting beliefs that can keep us from reaching our goals. Pam shares how self-awareness, emotional regulation, mentorship, and recognizing the patterns that hold us back can help us make meaningful progress in both our personal and professional lives.

The conversation explores Pam’s approach to leadership development, coaching, and helping others finish what they start. She discusses the importance of asking for support, learning to advocate for yourself, mentoring those coming behind you, and approaching leadership with both compassion and accountability. From overcoming her own doubts to helping others navigate trauma, career challenges, and major life transitions, Pam offers a powerful reminder to “make progress, not excuses.”

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Becca Pearce, executive coach, leadership expert, and author of You Don't Have to Achieve to Be Loved, for a candid conversation about the relationship between achievement, self-worth, and leadership. Becca shares how spending decades pursuing the next title, salary, or accomplishment shaped her understanding of success—and how a major life wake-up call prompted her to reconsider what she truly valued.

The conversation explores why achievement can become tied to our sense of belonging and worth, particularly for high-achieving women, and why separating ambition from self-worth can be so transformative. Becca discusses reinvention, leadership, coaching, and finding a life that feels meaningful beyond professional accomplishments, offering an encouraging perspective for anyone questioning what success really means.

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Christine Lee, an executive leader, scientist, pharmacist, entrepreneur, and public servant, to discuss her journey from federal leadership to entrepreneurship and her commitment to expanding access and opportunity. Christine shares how her mission-driven career has centered on amplifying voices that are often left out of the conversation and turning those voices into meaningful action.

Christine also discusses the challenges of starting a business, the importance of mentorship and access to resources, and the inspiration behind the Maryland Business Prosperity Summit. The event brings together resources for entrepreneurs, including access to capital, mentorship, accounting and HR support, office space, and other tools to help small businesses succeed. Christine explains why creating connections and making these resources easier to access can help entrepreneurs stay on the journey and turn their visions into reality.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prosperity-small-business-event-tickets-1994881499265

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Suzanne Miglucci, former public company CEO and CMO, corporate director, governance leader, and board readiness coach, to discuss what it really takes to earn your first corporate board seat. Suzanne shares lessons from her own journey into the boardroom and explains why successful executives need to shift their mindset from operating a business to providing governance and oversight.

The conversation covers how to build a board-ready network, understand the skills a board is seeking, package your experience effectively, and tell your career story in a way that demonstrates your value as a director. Suzanne also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, asking for opportunities, and getting firsthand exposure to boardrooms before making the transition.

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Ariana Kelly, Executive Director of the Maryland Commission for Women and former Maryland state legislator, for a look at the major issues affecting women across Maryland and the work coming out of the 2026 legislative session. Ariana discusses the Commission's three policy priorities—women's health and safety, women in the workforce and society, and the care economy—and highlights progress on menopause care, paid family and medical leave, childcare, and women's economic security.

The conversation also explores where Maryland still has work to do, including women's representation in elected office, pay equity, retirement security, and support for caregivers. Ariana reflects on her years in the legislature, the importance of building political capital and working collaboratively, and her vision for the Commission's long-term efforts to advance policies that allow all women to thrive.

https://dhs.maryland.gov/documents/Initiatives/Maryland%20Womens%20Commission/News%20and%20Publicati...

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Kimberly Prescott, founder and president of Prescott HR, for a conversation about embracing your strengths, leading with confidence, and becoming "unintimidated." Kimberly shares the story behind her company's tagline and how being told she was intimidating early in her career ultimately helped her understand the importance of owning who she is while being thoughtful about how she communicates.

The discussion explores Kimberly's approach to HR, leadership, mentorship, networking, and civic engagement, including why leaders should be willing to give people the advice they need rather than simply what they want to hear. Kimberly also reflects on the lessons she has learned throughout her career, the importance of allowing others to work through their own processes, and how vulnerability and strong relationships can make difficult conversations more effective.

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Donyel Bacon for a conversation centered on the career advice that has shaped her leadership journey. Drawing from her experiences as an entrepreneur and business leader, Donyel shares the lessons she's learned about perseverance, confidence, and staying true to your vision while navigating professional challenges.

The discussion explores the importance of embracing opportunities, learning from setbacks, building meaningful relationships, and leading with authenticity. Donyel offers practical advice for women at every stage of their careers, encouraging listeners to invest in themselves, seek out mentors, and approach every new challenge as an opportunity for growth and success.

Rebecca Snyder is joined by executive coach, leadership consultant, and former HR executive Julie East for an engaging conversation about leadership, emotional intelligence, and helping people reach their full potential. Julie shares how mentorship shaped her career and explains why great leaders focus on developing others rather than simply providing answers.

The discussion explores the power of executive coaching, self-awareness, feedback, and creating workplace cultures where employees feel valued and empowered. Julie also offers practical insights on emotional intelligence, effective communication, coaching versus managing, and how organizations can build stronger leaders by investing in their people. Whether you're leading a team, navigating career growth, or looking to become a more impactful leader, this episode is packed with actionable advice.

Rebecca Snyder is joined by Diana Emerson, Executive Director of Emerge Maryland, for a conversation about empowering women to lead, run for office, and create lasting change in their communities. Centered around the philosophy of "We Lift as We Climb," Diana shares how mentorship, collaboration, and intentional leadership can help more women step into positions of influence and public service.

The discussion explores the importance of building strong support networks, overcoming barriers to leadership, and creating opportunities for the next generation of women leaders. Diana also highlights the mission of Emerge Maryland, the value of civic engagement, and why investing in women’s leadership benefits organizations, communities, and future generations alike.