Today on Nonprofits Today, we’re joined by Paula Schneider, President and CEO of Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest breast cancer organization. From once working alongside Kanye West in the fashion world to now leading a mission to end breast cancer forever, Paula’s story is a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart.

A breast cancer survivor who also lost her mother to the disease, Paula brings unmatched clarity, compassion, and corporate strategy to the nonprofit sector. In this episode, she opens up about:

• Her unexpected leap from fashion CEO to nonprofit changemaker
• How surviving cancer reshaped her leadership
• The bold transformation she’s led at Komen—structurally, culturally, and technologically
• Why imposter syndrome is a myth, and what really drives confident leadership
• Her upcoming children’s book, Love Stays Strong, and how personal healing fuels public mission

Paula’s mantra is simple: “Life is not only about what you accomplish, but what you help others achieve along the way.” This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and legacy leadership.

Listen in to hear:

✔ Jetsons-level innovation in a Flintstones healthcare system

✔ What it means to “shut it down”—not in failure, but in victory

✔ Her advice for nonprofit leaders scaling mission-driven impact

✔ And why you only need to be smart enough to lead the band

Connect with Paula & Susan G. Komen:

Website: https://www.komen.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGKomen

X: https://x.com/SusanGKomen

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susangkomen/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/susangkomen/mycompany/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/komenforthecure

Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/770842/love-stays-strong-by-paula-schneider-illustrated-by-nicole-wong/

Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐇:

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-today

No Labels No Limits: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

X: @SarahBoxx

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/

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In this episode, we’re joined by Tim Curington, Executive Director of Prison Alliance—a ministry that’s helping thousands of incarcerated men and women find purpose, hope, and healing through faith.

Tim’s story is one of quiet leadership, deep conviction, and bold growth. He stepped into his role in 2023 during a leadership transition and helped scale the organization’s impact—from Bible-based study programs in all 50 states to expanding into 20+ countries, with new digital tools that reach inmates where they are—often on tablets in their prison cells.

• A letter-based Bible study program turns into real-life transformation
• One of the most infamous criminals in U.S. history, David Berkowitz (“Son of Sam”), became part of the redemptive stories Tim’s team shares
• A small nonprofit grew its budget from $800K to over $2M by staying focused on mission, mentorship, and building trust
• Lessons from The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team are helping reshape how his staff communicates and works together

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, someone curious about faith-based outreach, or just need a reminder that people can change, this conversation will move you.

“God’s grace is greater than the vilest act of any sinner.” - That’s a quote Tim lives by—and you’ll understand why after hearing this episode.

Website: https://www.prisonalliance.org

Instagram: @prison_alliance

Facebook: PrisonAllianceInternational

Twitter/X: @prison_alliance

LinkedIn: Prison Alliance

Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.

Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

Website: Sarah Boxx

Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-today

#nonprofitstoday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #nonprofitstoday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalk #PrisonAlliance #TimCarrington #FaithBehindBars #redemptionstories #sonofsam #christianministry #discipleship #InmateBibleStudy #nonprofitleadership #transformlives #ministrymatters #inmates #inmatelife

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In this powerful episode of Nonprofits Today, we speak with Thana Hickman-Simmons, founder and executive director of Viola’s House—a transformational nonprofit serving homeless expectant teen mothers in Dallas, Texas.

What began as a small mentoring program has evolved into a comprehensive residential and community-based organization that supports over 500 mothers daily. Viola’s House is not only Dallas County’s largest diaper distributor, providing over 6 million diapers annually, but also a lifeline offering transitional housing, a voucher-based boutique, mobile outreach, parenting classes, and more.

• The inspiration behind Viola’s House and how it started from a single apartment.
• Growing from passion to professional leadership, including board development and funding shifts.
• Navigating a 34% drop in individual giving while still expanding services.
• The importance of adaptability, perseverance, and community-driven strategy in uncertain times.

"Passion alone is not enough—you need perseverance, adaptability, and a strong team to create lasting impact."

Connect with Viola’s House:

Website: https://violashouse.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/violashousedallas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violashousedallas/

Connect with Sarah Boxx:

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-today

No Labels No Limits: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/

X: @SarahBoxx

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/

Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.

Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:

#NonprofitsToday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalk #realtalkrealconversation #nolabelsnolimits #transitionalhousing #nonprofitboard #engagement

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In this inspiring episode, host Sarah Boxx welcomes Yolanda Nollie, Nonprofit Director, and Natasha Davis, Founder of Pure Cinema USA, a 501(c)(3) Christian nonprofit dedicated to uplifting communities through faith-based cinema and essential services.

Discover how Pure Cinema USA is using film not only to entertain but to make a lasting social impact—offering everything from children’s eye exams and wellness checkups to scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and food and clothing drives. Yolanda and Natasha share their journey from the UK and Orlando to creating meaningful change by blending media, ministry, and community service.

Listen as they reveal the behind-the-scenes planning for their event, the Hearts & Reels Faith Films Fundraiser, and discuss lessons in nonprofit leadership, international vision-building, and balancing business with purpose.

• Turning personal passions into purpose-driven action
• Leveraging cinema as a tool for faith and social change
• Building strong, diverse nonprofit leadership teams
• Aligning faith, media, and community outreach for maximum impact

Connect with Pure Cinema USA:

Website: purecinemausa.org

LinkedIn: Pure Cinema USA

Facebook: Pure Cinema USA

Phone: (413) 614-3179

Email: [email protected]

Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.

Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐇:

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-today

No Labels No Limits: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/

X: @SarahBoxx

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/

𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:

#nonprofitstoday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #nonprofitstoday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalk #christianfilms #socialimpact #faithinaction #faithinfilm #faithandfilm #heartsandreels #christiancinema #faithbasedentertainment #purecinemausainc

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This week on Nonprofits Today, host Sarah Boxx sits down with legendary Pittsburgh journalist and nonprofit leader Bill Flanagan to explore his powerful journey from business reporting to civic transformation.

As the former Chief Corporate Relations Officer for the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, Bill has been a key force in shaping regional growth through public-private partnerships. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of strategic communication, empowering volunteer leadership, and the patient pursuit of long-term community goals.

Whether you're a small nonprofit or a large civic organization, this episode offers timeless lessons in leadership, trust-building, and creating impact that lasts.

In This Episode:

• Bill’s transition from KDKA-TV to nonprofit leadership
• What listening can teach us about fundraising and relationship-building
• The power of public-private partnerships (and how to start one)
• Why Pittsburgh’s model for civic renewal works—and what you can learn from it
• Advice for nonprofit leaders on storytelling, media strategy, and meaningful engagement

Wisdom Nugget: “The most helpful trait from my reporting days that translated to nonprofit management and fundraising was listening.”

Follow and connect with Bill:

Website: https://www.alleghenyconference.org/

X: @BillFlanagan

Facebook: #BillFlanagan

Enjoyed this episode? Let’s grow together!

LIKE this episode to spread awareness

SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring nonprofit stories

COMMENT below: What’s one thing you learned about long-term civic partnerships today?

SHARE to help others discover the power of strategic collaboration

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Discover the latest inspiring stories and practical strategies from nonprofit leaders who are making a difference. Hit subscribe and leave a review to support Nonprofits Today.

Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.

Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/

Watch on YouTube:  ⁨@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast⁩ 

𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐇:

Website: Home - Sarah Boxx Coaching and Consulting

Nonprofits Today: Nonprofits Today - Hosted by Sarah Boxx

No Labels No Limits: No Labels, No Limits podcast - Hosted by Sarah Boxx

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/

▶️ 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:

#nonprofitleadership #CivicPartnerships #publicprivatepartnerships #BillFlanagan #strategiccommunication #nonprofitstoday #SarahBoxx #PittsburghCivicLeadership #communitydevelopment #ListeningLeadership #economictransformation #NoLabelsNoLimits #NonprofitVoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #changemakers #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalkrealconversation

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In this moving episode of Nonprofits Today, we’re joined by Deborah Jankowski, founder of the CRPS Warriors Foundation—a powerhouse nonprofit providing global support, education, and hope for people living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

A survivor and advocate herself, Deborah transformed her personal battle with this debilitating nerve condition into a mission that spans continents. From navigating misdiagnoses and life-threatening surgeries to building a foundation with 40 global volunteers, Deborah’s journey is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and unwavering hope.

• What CRPS is and why it’s called the “suicide disease”
• How the CRPS Warriors Foundation meets the unique needs of patients and families
• Why community-driven nonprofits need creative funding strategies
• The critical role of volunteers, collaboration, and trust in nonprofit growth
• Deborah’s vision for expanding CRPS research, scholarships, and global impact

Deborah’s Key Message:

“Despite being a non-curable illness, don’t ever give up. Having a disability doesn’t mean you need to stop living. No CRPS Warrior will be left behind.”

Website: www.crpswarriorsfoundation.org

LinkedIn: (16) CRPS Warriors Foundation: Overview | LinkedIn

Instagram: instagram.com/crps_warriors_foundation

Facebook: facebook.com/crpswarriorsfoundation

Twitter: @CRPS

YouTube: youtube.com/@crpswarriorsfoundation5641

TikTok: @crpswarriorsfoundation

Donate or volunteer: www.crpswarriorsfoundation.org

https://sarahboxx.com

https://nonprofitstoday.live/

Listen here: www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast⁩ 

𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒: #NonprofitInnovation #resilientleadership #ChronicPainAwareness #RareDiseaseAdvocacy #NonprofitFundingTips #VolunteerCommunity #NonprofitSuccessStories #PatientSupportServices #CRPSCommunity #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #changemakers #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #nonprofitstoday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalk

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Want to make sure your charitable donations make a difference? Most donors don’t know if their money is truly impacting the causes they care about. In this episode, we’re diving into evidence-based philanthropy and the power of strategic giving with Brian Grasso, CEO of Simple Charity.

Brian shares his journey from raising funds as a high school student to leading a nonprofit that helps donors give wisely through research-backed approaches. We discuss unconditional cash transfers, the importance of community co-creation, and why nonprofits must use evidence-based interventions to succeed. Plus, we tackle a common challenge: How can donors feel confident that their dollars are making a real impact?

• If you’ve met one funder, you’ve met one funder—there's no one-size-fits-all approach to giving.
• Philanthropy should be both qualitative & quantitative—listening to stories while measuring impact.
• The Theory of Change—Why every nonprofit needs a written plan for measuring inputs, outputs, and outcomes.
• How humility in leadership leads to better decision-making in philanthropy.
• The reality of donor confidence—Most people don’t know if their donations are truly making a difference.

Special Offer: Brian is offering our listeners a special deal on Simple Charity’s Impact Audit service for new clients. Learn more about how you can enhance your giving impact at https://www.simplecharity.org/

Learn more about their Impact Audit Service: Simple Charity

LinkedIn (Brian Grasso): (15) Brian Grasso | LinkedIn

LinkedIn (Simple Charity): (15) Simple Charity: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

No Labels No Limits Podcast: https://shows.acast.com/no-labels-no-limits

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

Enjoyed this episode? Like, subscribe, and leave a review to help spread the message!

#Philanthropy #Nonprofits #GivingBack #Charity #StrategicGiving #SocialImpact #EvidenceBased #SimpleCharity #MakingADifference #DonorImpact #ChangeTheWorld #Charity #Philanthropy #Nonprofits #GivingBack #StrategicGiving #EffectiveAltruism #SocialImpact #DonorConfidence #HowToGive #NonprofitLeadership #SimpleCharity #MakingADifference #ImpactInvesting #EvidenceBasedGiving #CharitableGiving #NonprofitManagement #HowToDonate #TheoryOfChange #MeasuringImpact #Fundraising #DonorEngagement #NonprofitSuccess

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Today on Nonprofits Today, we sit down with Robyn Spoon, CEO and Founder of Elevate Childhood Cancer Research and Advocacy, Inc. Robyn brings her firsthand experience and deep expertise in nonprofit leadership and advocacy to uncover the challenges of childhood cancer research and the urgent need for systemic change.

• Why only 12 drugs have ever been developed specifically for childhood cancers
• How advocacy efforts break down barriers between families, researchers, and policymakers
• The hidden struggles of families navigating childhood cancer—and how we can support them
• Why collaboration, not competition, is the key to advancing research and care

• Empowering families—providing clear, actionable information so parents and caregivers can be effective advocates.
• Bridging gaps between stakeholders—working with researchers, biotech, regulators, and policymakers to drive real progress.
• Building coalitions—bringing organizations together to strengthen the collective impact of advocacy.
• Focusing on solutions—defining problems first and using creative problem-solving to overcome barriers in drug development and access.

Join us as we explore how Robyn is changing the landscape of childhood cancer research and what YOU can do to make a difference.

Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and COMMENT—tell us what inspired you the most from this conversation!

Website: https://elevatechildhoodcancer.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Elevate-Childhood-Cancer-Research-and-Advocacy/61550742426972/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevatechildhoodcancer/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevate-childhood-cancer-research-and-advocacy-inc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-spoon-phd-b0ab777/

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

No Labels No Limits Podcast: https://shows.acast.com/no-labels-no-limits

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

#ChildhoodCancer #NonprofitsToday #CancerAdvocacy #ChildhoodCancerAwareness #NonprofitLeadership #ElevateChildhoodCancer #CancerResearch #Philanthropy #AdvocacyMatters

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In this episode of Nonprofits Today with Sarah Boxx, we sit down with Adonai Mack, CEO of Child Action, Inc., to explore the urgent and evolving landscape of child care access and affordability. With over 20 years of experience in education policy and advocacy, Adonai brings powerful insights into the systemic challenges families face—and how his organization is driving change at the community and policy levels.

From empowering families in Sacramento County to building coalitions with school districts and business leaders, Child Action, Inc. is tackling the child care crisis head-on. Adonai shares how the nonprofit is not just offering essential services like child care referrals and subsidies, but also acting as a convener, drawing stakeholders together to influence policy and increase investments in early childhood education.

• A deeper understanding of how child care gaps impact families and the economy
• Strategies for cross-sector collaboration to support working parents
• Insight into Adonai’s bold leadership style and vision for future growth

Whether you're a nonprofit professional, policymaker, or passionate community advocate, this episode offers a roadmap to meaningful impact and sustainable change.

Tune in and be inspired by Adonai Mack’s leadership journey and commitment to building equitable solutions for families everywhere.

Website: https://wp.childaction.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildActionInc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childactioninc/

X (Twitter): https://x.com/ChildActionInc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childactioninc/

Enjoyed this episode? Like, subscribe, and leave a review to help spread the message!

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

No Labels No Limits Podcast: https://shows.acast.com/no-labels-no-limits

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

#ChildCareAccess #nonprofitleadership #earlychildhoodeducation #communityimpact #policychange #ChildActionInc #AdonaiMack #familysupport #equityineducation #leadershipjourney #NonprofitsToday #SarahBoxx #ChildCareSolutions #educationadvocacy #boldleadership #Leadershipinnonprofits #NonprofitsToday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #ImpactStory #changemakers #missiondriven #NonprofitVoices #nonprofitimpact #LeadingNonprofits #SustainableNonprofits #nonprofitleadership #GivingBetter #nonprofitsuccess #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #StorytellingForImpact #NonProfitHeroes #PodcastForGood #realtalk

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What happens when personal tragedy meets purpose? Pam Baker turned grief into a movement by empowering young women to lead through sports. In this episode of Nonprofits Today, we uncover how one woman's vision is changing the face of youth sports leadership.

Pam Baker, founder of the Women’s Coaching Alliance (WCA), shares her inspiring journey from a 25-year healthcare career to starting a nonprofit that mentors young female coaches. Discover how sports, leadership, and legacy intersect—and why visibility in coaching matters more than ever.

• How Pam transformed loss into impact and founded WCA
• The role of sports in shaping female leadership
• Why young women hesitate to coach—and how WCA is changing that
• The powerful ripple effect of relatable role models in youth sports
• What it really takes to launch and grow a nonprofit with a business mindset

“You never know what’s possible with an idea.” – Pam Baker

Subscribe, like, and drop your thoughts in the comments if this episode inspired you.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenscoachingalliance/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womens-coaching-alliance/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Womens-Coaching-Alliance/100089792747105/

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

No Labels No Limits Podcast: https://shows.acast.com/no-labels-no-limits

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast

𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:

#NonprofitsToday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #grieftogrowth #purposedriven #legacybuilding #ImpactStory #changemakers #missiondriven #NonprofitVoices #nonprofitimpact #LeadingNonprofits #SustainableNonprofits #nonprofitleadership #GivingBetter #nonprofitsuccess #NonprofitsToday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #StorytellingForImpact #NonProfitHeroes #PodcastForGood #realtalk #womeninleadership

#LeadLikeAWoman #empoweredwomen

#sheleads #nonprofitlife #nonprofitleadership #socialimpact #NonprofitStartup #makeadifference #WomenInNonprofits #impactdriven #NonprofitFounder #MissionInAction #buildingbetter #trailblazingwomen

#womensupportingwomen #womenwithpurpose #womenwhoinspire #femaleleadership #leadershipmatters #leadershipmatters

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