Episode 005: Overcoming Male-Dominated Cultures with Toni Will

What does it take to thrive in a space where very few women have gone before? In this episode of Overcoming Anything, I sit down with Toni Will, the first female GM in ECHL history and a trailblazing leader in professional hockey. Toni shares her journey of breaking barriers, navigating leadership in male-dominated industries, and embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle. Her story is one of courage, authenticity, and the power of redefining success on your own terms.

Toni Will is a trailblazing leader, speaker, and author dedicated to empowering women to thrive in male-dominated industries and embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle. As the first female general manager in the history of the ECHL’s Kalamazoo Wings, Toni has built a reputation for breaking barriers, driving growth, and inspiring others through authentic leadership. A sought-after keynote speaker, Toni captivates audiences with her engaging storytelling and practical strategies for navigating leadership challenges, cultivating confidence, and redefining success. She has spoken at conferences across the country, including TEDx, and will release her first book on March 1, 2026. Toni’s work extends beyond sports and business—she’s passionate about sparking conversations around living alcohol-free, challenging societal norms, and empowering individuals to make choices that align with their values. Her podcast, Women In…, showcases inspiring stories from women across industries, fostering connection, mentorship, and growth.

Key Takeaways

1. Authenticity wins — Your perceived weaknesses can actually be your greatest strengths in leadership.
2. Change starts with choice — Embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle gave Toni clarity, resilience, and confidence.
3. Create your own community — If you can’t find support in your industry, build it for yourself and others.

Timestamps

• 00:00 — Welcome & introduction
• 04:15 — Embracing femininity in male-dominated spaces
• 10:20 — Breaking barriers in pro hockey leadership
• 18:00 — Choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle and its ripple effects
• 27:45 — Toni’s six leadership pillars for thriving in any field
• 39:10 — Advice for women navigating male-dominated industries
• 48:00 — Recommended books & resources
• 53:00 — Where to connect with Toni

Connect with Toni

Website:  https://www.toniwill.com/

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

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

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

Toni’s Podcast Women In…

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in/id1745524618

Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1bq7Oir4efb6F4283akjgh

YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3KCmFHv1UcB99L2Hi_6MwA

Books Toni Recommends:

This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, https://a.co/d/hYupOFN

Money, Power, Respect: The Future of Feminism in Sports by Macaela MacKenzie, https://a.co/d/dXY20Df

Share this episode with someone navigating a male-dominated culture who needs inspiration, guidance, and proof that they too can succeed.

Credits

• Host: Anne Vryonides
• Guest: Toni Will

Disclaimer

The content of this episode is for informational&n