Carry As You Climb

Host Nan Whaley sits down with Rita Danish, CEO of Signal Ohio, a nonprofit network of local newsrooms she built from the ground up over three years. Before leading one of the fastest-growing nonprofit news organizations in the country, Rita spent three decades in public service and law, holding some of Ohio’s most influential legal and civic roles, including:Chief Legal Counsel, Ohio Department of Commerce Judge, Franklin County Domestic and Juvenile CourtSection Chief for Civil Rights under Attorney General Betty MontgomeryCity Attorney for DaytonCity Solicitor for Cincinnati (joining shortly after the 2001 civil unrest)Vice President of Government Affairs, Cincinnati USA Regional ChamberPartner, Taft law firmIn this wide-ranging conversation, Rita reflects on navigating a nonlinear career, the mentors who shaped her path, the importance of mentoring others, and the courage it takes to take risks - especially later in life.Key Themes:Leadership Development: Sitting at the table instead of waiting for an invitationCommunity Journalism: Why local news is essential to democracyMentorship: Carrying others as you climbLoyalty: How it's evolved and why it still mattersResilience: Embracing failure as a catalyst for growthOhio: "So goes Ohio, goes the rest of the world."Resources Mentioned:Signal OhioYvette McGee-BrownBetty MontgomeryShirley ChisholmRosa ParksAbout the Host: Nan Whaley is a longtime community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio, from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister, and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who not only bust through doors to lead but also hold the door open for the women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government, and the nonprofit sector. Connect with Carry As You ClimbSocialsInstagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Twitter | LinkedInStay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleyProduced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni KeelerNote: The opinions expressed by host Nan Whaley on this podcast are hers alone and do not reflect those of any organization with which she is affiliated.

Note: Episode reposted due to a hosting sync issue and number / Nan Whaley reconnects with longtime friend and fundraising powerhouse Alexandra Acker-Lyons. Al, a dedicated political consultant with over two decades of experience, shares insights on her journey into politics, mentorship, and her passion for supporting women candidates and issues. They discuss the evolution of women in political leadership, the challenges of campaign finance, and the importance of mentorship. Al also shares her views on the current political landscape, future election cycles, and inspirations. Plus, you’ll get insights on the unique role of donor advising, the importance of investing in women's political leadership, and how Al helps ultra-high-net-worth donors strategically deploy their resources.About Our Guest: Alexandra Acker-LyonsFor over 20 years, Alexandra Acker-Lyons has worked for some of the nation’s most prominent donors, campaigns, and progressive organizations. She specializes in advising female donors at the intersection of electoral politics, philanthropy, and the nonprofit sector. Alexandra is a certified 21/64 Philanthropic Advisor. She also serves as the Political Director for the Electing Women Alliance, a network of 17 (and growing) giving circles focused on raising money for female candidates and closing the political giving gap in US politics.Her company AL Advising, works with progressive donors and philanthropists looking to streamline their giving and boost their impact. They specialize in working with women donors, candidates, and women-focused organizations.Resources Mentioned:Electing Women AlliancePoliticAL Update on YouTubeAL AdvisingCongresswoman and first female chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Nita LoweyGeraldine Ferraro’s 1984 acceptance speech as the Democratic nominee for Vice President of the United StatesAbout the Host: Nan Whaley is a longtime community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleyConnect with Carry As You Climb SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanwhaley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carryasyouclimbpod/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nanwhaleyTwitter: https://x.com/nanwhaleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanwhaley/ Join the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni KeelerNote: The opinions expressed by host Nan Whaley on this podcast are hers alone, and not that of any organization with which she is affiliated.

Nan Whaley welcomes Cincinnati entrepreneur Rachel DesRochers for a conversation about gratitude, grit, and building businesses that give back. From launching Power to Pursue and Grateful Grahams to founding the Incubator Kitchen Collective – now supporting more than 200 food startups – Rachel shares how a lifelong gratitude practice shaped her leadership and entrepreneurial journey as a changemaker. Together, they explore the power of human connection, community support, and what it truly means to carry others as you climb.About Our Guest: Rachel DesRochers is a mother, a dreamer, a serial entrepreneur, and the founder of Power to Pursue. Gratitude and community are at the heart of everything she does — and she does a lot. In addition to founding Power to Pursue (now also a podcast), Rachel is the creator behind the Incubator Kitchen and the Gratitude Collective.Resources Mentioned:Power to PursueThe Gratitude CollectiveIncubator KitchenPlanned Parenthood of Southwest OhioRachel’s Books: The Mourning Light, Shift To Light: 90 Days to GratefulAbout the Host: Nan Whaley is a long time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleyConnect with Carry As You ClimbSocialsInstagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Twitter | LinkedInJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley sits down with Judge Mary Wiseman of Montgomery County to discuss her journey to becoming a seasoned judge. They explore her early career in private practice, her switch from engineering to law, and her dedication to the legal profession. Judge Wiseman shares her experiences navigating the judicial system, including maintaining impartiality and adapting to the limitations of expressing personal opinions as a judge. They also touch on the challenges and triumphs of a life dedicated to public service and justice.Their conversation covers:How women's roles in law have evolvedThe impact of legal decisions like the Obergefell ruling on same-sex marriageWhy mentorship across generations is critically important The current state of affairs in the United States legal systemLegal philosophy, including originalismGifts of examining issues from multiple perspectivesAbout Our Guest: Judge Mary Wiseman is the Presiding Judge of the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas in Ohio. She was raised in Indiana and attended law school in Arkansas. But soon after, her parents’ health brought her home to her birthplace - the great state of Ohio. Judge Wiseman is the first openly LGBTQ+ judge to serve in the Buckeye State. Throughout her career, she has served as the president of the Dayton Bar Association, the Greater Dayton Lawyers Project, and the Carl D. Kessler Inn of Court and has volunteered with many community organizations.   Links inspired by our conversation:Lawyer, legislator, and professor Barbara Jordan of TexasThe first female judge in Montgomery County, Ohio, Lillian KernJudge Barbara Gorman RetiresArticle: The Historic and trailblazing journey of Mary Wiseman by The Buckeye FlameAbout the Host: Nan Whaley is a long time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Connect with Carry As You ClimbStay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleySocialsInstagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Twitter | LinkedInJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley sits down with Liz Walters, CEO of TargetSmart and former chair of the Ohio Democratic Party, for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation about leadership, politics, and the power of data. Liz reflects on her political journey - from leading in Ohio to shaping the future of political technology - and shares lessons learned working alongside some of the most influential women in public life. Together, they explore how data is transforming modern campaigns, the role of mentorship in developing strong female leaders, and why bipartisan collaboration still matters. This episode offers thoughtful insights at the intersection of politics, leadership growth, and data-driven strategy.About Our Guest: Liz Walters is the CEO of TargetSmart, a data-driven solutions company serving the private, government, non-profit, and political sectors. Liz also serves on the Summit County Council in Ohio. She’s formerly the Chairwoman of the Ohio Democratic Party and has worked for candidates and causes in Ohio and Washington, D.C. She credits her start in public service to her involvement in the Girl Scouts of the USA.  Resources Mentioned:Liz’s Mentor, former Congresswoman and current Appeals Court Judge Betty SuttonGirl ScoutsSeeds recommended by Martha Stewart: Vilmorin in Paris About the Host: Nan Whaley is a long time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. Connect with Carry As You ClimbAbout the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleySocialsInstagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Twitter | LinkedInJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley interviews Kimberly Hamlin, a historian and professor specializing in women's history and rights. They discuss the historical and contemporary contributions of women leaders and how we can learn from the past to deal with today’s challenges. Their conversation covers: Changing perspectives on women's leadership across generations The importance of addressing intersectionality and inclusivity in both historical context and modern advocacy. Stories about famous and lesser-known women in the suffragist movementEvolving societal expectations of women and the persistence of issues like sexual violence and perfectionism among young women leaders todayThe importance of failureThe awesomeness of women in leadershipAnd some lighter topics like what we’re watching - spoiler alert: it’s Parks and RecResources Mentioned:Kimberly Hamlin’s latest book: Free Thinker: Sex, Suffrage and the Extraordinary Life of Helen Hamilton GardenerLeague of Women VotersSpeech by Margaret Chase Smith: The Declaration of ConscienceIron Jawed Angels movie (starring Hilary Swank and Anjelica Houston)PBS Documentary: Troop 1500Book: The Beauty Myth by Naomi WolfThe Beast in Me on NetflixParks & Rec on imdbAbout Our Guest: Kimberly A. Hamlin is an award-winning historian, author, and professor specializing in the history of women, gender, and sex in the United States. A regular contributor to the Washington Post and other media, Hamlin speaks to audiences across the country about women’s and gender history. She’s the chair of the History Department at the University of Miami in Ohio.About the Host: Nan Whaley is a long-time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb elevates the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and across the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Connect with Carry As You ClimbStay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleySocialsInstagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Twitter | LinkedInJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley engages in a heartfelt conversation with Heather Booth, a renowned activist known for her work in the civil rights movement and abortion rights. They discuss Booth's journey from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) to the establishment of the 'Jane' collective, which provided thousands of safe abortions before it was legalized by Roe v. Wade. Heather Booth shares her thoughts on the recent overturning of Roe and emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and building a caring community. They reflect on the multi-generational aspect of current activism and the necessity of continuous effort in safeguarding rights. The conversation highlights Booth's ongoing work with Battleground Alliance to win back Congress and her personal joys outside activism, such as theater and book clubs.Heather first appeared on Carry As You Climb on episode 11. It was before the pandemic, and before the fall of Roe - a conversation in a time capsule, to be sure. Resources Mentioned: The Janes Documentary (available for community screenings and currently streaming on HBO Max)Battleground AllianceMore on Dr. TRM HowardAbout Our Guest: Heather Booth is a renowned American progressive activist, feminist, and political strategist known for her work in civil rights, women's liberation (co-founding JANE, an underground abortion service), and training social change leaders via the Midwest Academy, making her a key figure in shaping American activism for decades, from Civil Rights Movement to healthcare and voting rights. She started organizing in the 1960s, joined CORE, worked with SNCC, co-founded the Chicago Women's Liberation Union (CWLU), and later directed training for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and campaigns for immigration reform, marriage equality, and financial regulation. About the Host: Nan Whaley is a long time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio from 2014 - 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleyConnect with Carry As You Climb SocialsInstagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Twitter | LinkedInJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley engages in a fascinating discussion with Betsy Fisher Martin, a prominent journalist and the Director of American University's Women & Politics Institute. The conversation delves into Betsy's career journey, from growing up in a politically charged environment in New Orleans to leading 'Meet the Press' for decades. Betsy shares insights into the evolving role of women in leadership and the shifting landscape of journalism. They also touch on the challenges women face in political fields, the importance of authentic representation, and the influence of younger generations demanding more from their leaders. Their conversation covers: Betsy Fisher Martin's unexpected journey from politics to journalismHer impactful time at Meet the Press and mentorship from Tim RussertTransitioning to academia and leading the Women in Politics Institute at American UniversityThe evolution and current state of women in political leadershipChanges in media consumption and the importance of media literacyEncouraging young women to engage and run for political officePersonal insights into media bias and the authenticity of women leadersReflections on the importance of mentorship and kindness in professional lifeResources Mentioned:Women & Politics institute at American UniversityGender On The Ballot StudyInternational Women’s Forum Keys to Elected Office: The Essential Guide for Women by the Barbara Lee Family FoundationMentor, Betty Cole DukertMore on Tim Russert at John Carroll University and on Meet the PressAbout Our Guest: Betsy Fischer Martin is an Emmy-winning journalist and TV news executive. Currently, she is the Executive Director of the American University School of Public Affairs' Women & Politics Institute and a Senior Executive in Residence in the Department of Government. She also founded her own consulting business, Fischer Martin Media, where she specializes in providing media training to corporate executives.Previously, Fisher Martin was the Managing Editor of NBC News Political Programming. Before being promoted to an executive role at NBC News, she was the executive producer of the top-rated Sunday-morning public affairs program Meet the Press with Tim Russert. She serves on the Global Board of Directors of the International Women's Forum and is the immediate past president of their Washington, DC Chapter.About the Host: Nan Whaley is a long-time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio, from 2014 to 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister, and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb is focused on elevating the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also hold the door open for more women behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleyConnect with Carry As You Climb SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanwhaley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carryasyouclimbpod/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nanwhaleyTwitter: https://x.com/nanwhaleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanwhaley/ Join the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley is joined by Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers and Secretary Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO, for a discussion on her journey in labor leadership. Melissa shares insights into the Federation's growth and challenges, efforts to organize new sectors such as libraries and social services, and the complexities of labor advocacy in a politically tough state like Ohio. They also delve into the evolving role of women in leadership positions within unions, Melissa's personal motivation, and the importance of diverse perspectives in policy-making. The episode highlights Melissa's passion for policy work, commitment to organizing, and the balance she strikes in her demanding roles.About Our Guest: Melissa Cropper is president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, a labor union representing about 20,000 teachers, social workers, librarians, and more across Ohio. Their focus is on statewide issues of legislation, policy, and political advocacy representing the professionals they serve, public education, and supporting services. Cropper also serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO. She began her career as a school librarian.   Resources MentionedOhio Federation of TeachersAmerican Federation of TeachersEquitas HealthWorthington Public LibraryOhio AFLCIO Why Fascists Fear Teachers by Randi WeingartenAbout the Host: Nan Whaley is a long-time community leader and public servant. She’s currently the CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. She served as Mayor of Dayton, Ohio, from 2014 to 2022. Nan has also presided over the United Conference of Mayors. She’s a feminist, daughter, aunt, sister, and friend. About the Show: Carry As You Climb elevates the voices of women in leadership from Ohio and the rest of the United States. The podcast features guests who give special attention to not only busting through doors to lead but also holding the door open for more women to enter behind them. In other words, they carry as they climb. We focus on leadership development and leadership lessons. Plus, we share personal experiences to inspire the inclusion of more diverse leaders in business, government and the nonprofit sector. Stay up to date with Nan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@nanwhaleyConnect with Carry As You Climb SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanwhaley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carryasyouclimbpod/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nanwhaleyTwitter: https://x.com/nanwhaleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanwhaley/ Join the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications - Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley sits down with Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund, for a candid conversation about her unexpected path into national leadership, the complexity of steering an organization under constant attack, and the delicate balance between long-term vision and daily crisis response. The dig into the emotional toll of crisis leadership, the importance of mental health compartmentalization, the rising influence of younger generations in the progressive movement, and the mentors and moments that keep Alexis grounded – including a memorable visit to Ohio.Their conversation covers: An unexpected rise to national leadershipLeading under nonstop political and legal pressureJuggling an urgent crisis with a long-term strategyHow Gen Z is reshaping movement leadershipStaying emotionally steady in the long fightMentors, inspiration, and sources of hopeGuest BioAlexis McGill Johnson is the President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, leading the nation’s most trusted provider of sexual and reproductive health care and education, which serves more than 2 million people each year through nearly 600 health centers nationwide. A longtime champion for social and racial justice, she has spent more than 15 years in Planned Parenthood leadership and has guided the organization through major challenges, including exclusion from Title X and the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade. A respected thought leader on reproductive freedom, racial justice, and implicit bias, Alexis is a founder of the Culture Group and the co-founder and former co-director of the Perception Institute, bringing a researcher’s lens to movement-building and justice work. She is a frequent commentator and keynote speaker and serves on the boards of Color of Change and the Leadership Conference for Civil and Human Rights. Resources MentionedPlanned Parenthood Federation of AmericaPlanned Parenthood Action FundConnect with Carry As You ClimbSocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanwhaley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carryasyouclimbpod/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nanwhaleyTwitter: https://x.com/nanwhaleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanwhaley/ Join the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley sits down with Mayor Sharetta Smith of Lima, Ohio, a trailblazing leader who made history as the city’s first female and first African American mayor. They talk about her transition to the mayor’s office, what it means to lead with transparency, and how she’s making city government more accessible and responsive. Sharetta and Nan explore the challenges of affordable living, the impact of federal recovery dollars, and the importance of creating real opportunities for young people – all grounded in her belief that progress happens when we’re truly better together. Their conversation covers:Moving from Chief of Staff to becoming mayorLeadership lessons shaped by the pandemicHow to build strong relationships across neighborhoods and institutionsWhy “better together” guides her governing philosophyGuest BioSharetta Smith is the 59th Mayor of Lima – the first woman and African American to lead the city. A proud Lima native, she has served as a public defender, Magistrate Judge, and Chief of Staff, where she helped secure Opportunity Zone investments, launched the Lima Housing Task Force, expanded afterschool programs, and modernized city services. As mayor, she is focused on safe neighborhoods, economic growth, youth opportunities, quality housing, and efficient operations. Resources MentionedCity of LimaConnect with Carry As You ClimbSocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanwhaley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carryasyouclimbpod/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nanwhaleyTwitter: https://x.com/nanwhaleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanwhaley/ Join the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so that you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

Host Nan Whaley sits down with Nikol Miller, Executive Director of the Miami Valley Urban League, to explore what true mentorship looks like – and how lifting others can transform careers, communities, and lives.Nikol embodies the spirit of Carry As You Climb. A trusted community leader and lifelong mentor, she shares how she approaches guiding others with honesty, humility, and purpose. Nan and Nikol also reflect on their decades-long friendship in Dayton and the mentors who helped shape their paths.Their conversation covers:Importance of partnerships and collaborators in community buildingHow leadership is a verbThe power of lessons learned from "failing forward"How to lead with listening before problem solving - especially when the work is hardWhy mentoring is one of the most meaningful ways to "carry as you climb"Guest BioNikol Miller is the Executive Director of the Miami Valley Urban League, a division of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. A lifelong public servant and proud Dayton native, Nikol brings deep experience in community outreach, policy, and leadership to her work empowering others.Before leading the Urban League, she served as Community Relations Manager for the Greater Dayton RTA, helped develop the national outreach plan for the 2020 Census, and served as the Chief of Staff for Chicago’s 7th Ward Alderman. She is active in numerous local organizations and boards and is known for her mentorship, authenticity, and dedication to community.Resources MentionedMiami Valley Urban LeagueUrban League of Greater Southwestern OhioFeminism and the Heartland by Judith EzekielJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this energizing episode, host Nan Whaley sits down with Katie Paris, founder of Red Wine & Blue, to talk about how suburban women are reshaping politics and reclaiming the power of community.From kitchen tables to neighborhood text threads, Katie shares how real conversations among women can change hearts, minds, and outcomes—and why humor, authenticity, and connection are some of the most powerful organizing tools we have.Their conversation covers:• The origin story of Red Wine & Blue and what inspired Katie to start it• How women are creating change in their communities through connection, not conflict• Why showing up as your full self is key to leadership and persuasion• Lessons in balancing motherhood, advocacy, and public life• The importance of joy, laughter, and friendship as fuel for political courageGuest BioKatie Paris, founder of Red Wine & Blue, is an Ohio suburban mom and 20-year political veteran. In 2019, Katie quit her job in national politics to found Red Wine & Blue because she saw an opportunity to mobilize suburban women. Red Wine & Blue is an empowered community of over 700,000 diverse women working together to organize their communities against extremism, one friend at a time. They provide women with trainings, resources and a supportive community. Red Wine & Blue has year-round, on the ground organizers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Michigan and Virginia, as well as a nationwide local group organizing program that has over 800 groups across all 50 states.Resources Mentioned• Red Wine & Blue• How to Not Lose Your Sh!t Podcast: https://redwine.blue/podcast/• How to Talk About Hard Things (Red Wine & Blue guide)Join the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this inspiring episode, host Nan Whaley sits down with Dr. Amy Acton, physician, community leader, and current candidate for Governor of Ohio.Together, they explore what it means to lead with both strength and empathy - and how to keep climbing even when the path feels steep.Their conversation covers:The crossroads of their own leadership journeys - and how their paths have intersectedWhat it means to be an upstander versus a bystander in times of challengeWhy kindness is not a weakness, and how to practice it in service-driven leadershipThe myth of the "savior" leader and the power of collective actionImportance of finding your own internal compass and staying grounded in your valuesGuest BioDr. Amy Acton is a physician, public servant, and lifelong advocate for community well-being. As Ohio's former Director of Health, she became a trusted voice during the early months of COVID-19 pandemic. Today, she continues to champion a vision of hope, belonging and shared responsibility in her campaign for Governor of Ohio.Resources MentionedThe Upstander Program – Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity CenterOn Being Podcast with Krista TippettDr. Amy Acton’s campaign websiteOur Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century — American Academy of Arts & SciencesMarian Wright Edelman — Founder of the Children’s Defense FundJoin the ClimbIf this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe so you never miss an episode, and rate and review Carry As You Climb wherever you listen to podcasts.

Connie Schultz is a Pulitzer Prize winning, nationally syndicated columnist for Creators Syndicate, and Professional in Residence at Kent State University School of Journalism. She won the Pulitzer Prize in 2005 for Commentary for columns that judges praised for providing “a voice for the underdog and the underprivileged.”  She also won the Robert F. Kennedy […]

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, now in her fifteenth term as the Congresswoman for the District of Columbia, is the Chair of the House Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. She serves on two committees: the Committee on Oversight and Reform and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Before her congressional service, President Jimmy Carter appointed her […]

As Mayor of her hometown, Muriel Bowser is committed to building pathways to the middle class and making sure every Washingtonian gets a fair shot. Washington, DC is a growing and prospering city—now more than 700,000 residents strong. To keep up with this growth, the Bowser Administration remains focused on making DC’s prosperity more inclusive, […]

Tamera Luzzatto leads government relations at The Pew Charitable Trusts. She ensures that Pew’s wide range of nonpartisan policy work at the state, federal and international levels is effectively and accurately communicated to policy makers. Luzzatto served as then-Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton’s chief of staff  from 2001 to 2009. Prior to her service with Senator […]

Heather Booth is one of the leading strategists about progressive issue campaigns and driving issues in elections in the United States. She has been an organizer starting in the civil rights, anti-Vietnam war and women’s movements of the 1960s. She was the founding Director and is now President of the Midwest Academy, training social change […]

Dr. Karen Donfried is president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening transatlantic cooperation through policy analysis, fellowships for next generation leaders, and support for civil society. GMF is headquartered in Washington, DC, and has seven offices in Europe. Before assuming her current role in April […]