In this episode of Queen Me, we sit down with Kelly Ross - nonprofit leader, social entrepreneur, and founder of The Echo Collective in Lincoln, Nebraska. Kelly shares the journey behind her mission to uplift immigrant and refugee women through economic independence, community-building, and entrepreneurship. From humble beginnings as an ESL volunteer to launching The Refinery program, Kelly’s work shows how local action can create generational impact - and how stepping past fear can change everything.

In this inspiring episode of Queen Me, we sit down with Abby Lane - founder and CEO of Chérie Lane, a bold fashion brand empowering ambitious women through timeless, sparkly style. From starting her first jewelry business at age seven to launching a full-time brand while still in college, Abby shares the real behind-the-scenes of entrepreneurship: the early hustle, the hard decisions, and the deep why behind every sequin and stitch.

In this episode, we’re joined by Ashley Lamb-Sinclair—award-winning educator, National Geographic Explorer, author, and the visionary behind 2892 Miles to Go. From her days in a Kentucky classroom to the frontlines of education reform and youth-led storytelling, Ashley shares how she’s built a life rooted in purpose, policy, and radical authenticity. This conversation explores what it means to lead from where you are, why stories can shift systems, and how being underestimated might just be your greatest strength.

In this inspiring Queen Me conversation, we’re joined by Karley Berry—Senior Director of Football Operations at the NFL. Karley opens up about her journey from a small internship sparked by family ties to becoming a driving force for equity and inclusion across the football world. From legal insights to leadership philosophy, this episode explores what it takes to break into—and rise within—one of the most competitive industries, all while staying rooted in purpose, integrity, and faith.

In this episode, we sit down with Kamala Avila-Salmon—storyteller, producer, and DEI powerhouse—whose career spans music, tech, and Hollywood. From breaking barriers as Lionsgate’s first head of inclusive content to founding her own production company, Kamala opens up about the power of authentic storytelling, the hidden roadblocks in the entertainment industry, and what it means to lead with truth, clarity, and conviction.

In this episode of Queen Me, we sit down with Micaela English—a dynamic journalist, storyteller, and digital innovator whose work spans luxury, lifestyle, fashion, and beauty. From navigating unexpected career detours to redefining success on her own terms, Micaela shares a candid and empowering look at her path through the evolving world of media. This conversation dives into the power of resilience, the future of digital storytelling, and what it really means to unleash your inner queen.

In this episode, Ashley sits down with Jenny Ingber, President and CEO of Chess in the Schools, to discuss her career transition from science education to nonprofit leadership, the organization’s mission to uplift low-income youth through chess, and the broader challenges of running a nonprofit. They explore how chess serves as a powerful tool for youth development and education.

Jonathan Pride, VP of Field Operations at NPower, shares his journey from military service to corporate America and the nonprofit sector. He discusses leadership, personal growth, and NPower’s mission to create opportunities for veterans and underserved young adults in tech.

In this episode, we sit down with Coral Reynolds, President of Fiesta Plush, as she shares her path from customer service to company leadership, navigating challenges in the toy industry, and finding balance between ambition and personal fulfillment.

In this inspiring episode of Queen Me!, we sit down with Michelle Reardon, Head of Communications at National Veterinary Associates (NVA). Michelle shares her dynamic career journey—spanning government, corporate, and nonprofit communications—and offers invaluable insights on leadership, mentorship, and navigating the evolving veterinary care industry.

This interview features David Simas, former CEO of the Obama Foundation, discussing his career journey, the importance of relationships, leadership values, and the role of youth in decision-making. David shares personal anecdotes and insights on building connections, navigating leadership challenges, and fostering intergenerational collaboration.

This episode features Katherine Amenta, Director of Development at the Ronald McDonald House of Southern New Jersey. Katherine opens up about her remarkable transition from an Emmy-winning journalism career to a leadership role in the nonprofit world. She shares candid insights on career pivots, mentorship, overcoming self-doubt, and the power of storytelling in both media and fundraising.

Max Polec, PCC - executive coach and founder of The CEO Strategy - shares his insights on leadership, coaching, and personal growth. This conversation dives into practical strategies for startup founders, from navigating leadership transitions to managing burnout and fostering a writing culture that scales teams effectively.

In this episode, we sit down with Jamie Mittelman, founder of Flame Bears, a media company dedicated to amplifying the voices of elite women athletes, particularly Olympians and Paralympians. We explore the power of representation in sports media, the ongoing challenges female athletes face, and tangible ways to foster a more equitable sports landscape.

In this episode, we’re hanging out with the powerhouse herself, Candice Nicole—a multi-award-winning publicist and founder of Candice Nicole Public Relations. Candice gets real about her journey in PR, dropping gems on storytelling, entrepreneurship, and how visibility is the ultimate game-changer in the PR world.

This episode features a recap of Season 2, focusing on female founders and leaders. The discussions revolve around personal growth, entrepreneurship, empowerment, and practical steps for unleashing one's inner queen, with insights from various guests.

On this episode, we discuss strategies for personal and professional success. We emphasize the importance of defining success individually, surrounding oneself with smart and motivating people, documenting work achievements, and networking effectively.

On this episode, we discuss the multifaceted benefits of learning chess. Ashley shares how chess has influenced her career and personal development, emphasizing its role in enhancing strategic thinking, decision-making, and focus. Ashley also provides insights into how chess skills are applicable in various aspects of life, including business, academics, and personal growth.

Ashley Lynn Priore shares her journey from learning chess at a young age to founding Queens, Gambit, a nonprofit aimed at empowering young people in chess. She discusses the importance of networking, building a supportive community, and the challenges and advice for starting a nonprofit.

In this episode of Queen Me, we discuss the Youth on Boards movement, focusing on the significance of intergenerational diversity and the inclusion of young leaders in nonprofit boards. Ashley shares insights from her initiative, Y22, and critiques the current state of youth representation on boards, advocating for meaningful inclusion to foster innovation and sustainability.