Welcome to Episode Four of Woman-Run, hosted by Wright Lindsey Jennings Public Relations and Marketing Director Rickie Smith. Rickie is joined by Mandy Richardson, Publisher of Soirée Magazine and Founder of the Women’s Leadership Symposium & Summits. Mandy shares lessons from her deadline‑driven publishing and events career, her leadership philosophy, and practical tips for building culture, balance, and community in business.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Mandy pivoted from a student‑loan role during the 2008 federal program shutdown into a dynamic career in publishing and event management.
• The real difference between an editor’s role versus a publisher’s responsibilities—managing P&L, vision, and sales for multiple consumer‑focused products.
• Strategies for seeking honest feedback: finding mentors who’ll tell you what you need to hear, whether it’s a spouse, best friend, or a former executive colleague.
• Why culture‑first companies invest in surprise perks—from in‑office playrooms to financial wellness programs—to keep employees engaged and valued.
• Best practices for pitching media and speaking at industry events: tailor your angle to each outlet’s audience and always come prepared well in advance.

Highlights & Key Takeaways:

• “Publishing is 80% spreadsheets and deadlines—and 20% magic.” How Mandy balances left‑brain data work with right‑brain creative shoots.
• The origin story of the Women’s Leadership Symposium & Summits: a grassroots launch in 2018 to fill a statewide gap in general leadership training for women.
• Mandy’s leadership style: delegate, build trust, and never ask others to do work you wouldn’t tackle yourself.
• The “quiet leader” paradox: running high‑profile magazines and summits while personally avoiding the spotlight.
• Work–life reality check: ditch the myth of balance, focus on presence, and guard your mental health by setting clear email boundaries.

Mentioned in the Episode:

• Soirée Magazine
• Women’s Leadership Symposium & Summit
• Wright Lindsey Jennings

Quotes:

“I really don’t enjoy the spotlight—being front and center is out of necessity for the job.” – Mandy Richardson

“In publishing, plan six months ahead for print; digital can pivot overnight.” – Mandy Richardson

“If you’re not happy outside the office, you won’t perform well inside it.” – Mandy Richardson

Enjoy this candid conversation to discover new ways to lead, collaborate, and thrive—both in business and beyond.