She Lights the Way is an empowering collection of stories about remarkable, unsung women who are impacting our world in meaningful ways as they navigate personal and career obstacles, and in turn, blaze a trail of inspiration for others.
Episodes
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Melissa Austin has spent her career opening doors in the gaming industry—not just as a technical artist and leader but as a force multiplier for others. In this conversation, she shares how mentorship, representation, and a deep passion for helping others have shaped her journey. From her early days in game development to leading a team at Niantic, Melissa opens up about the pivotal moments, the challenges of a male-dominated industry, and why empowering others is the ultimate superpower.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more empowering stories from remarkable women.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/melissaaustin-interview-transcript
EPISODE LINKS:
Melissa’s LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-a-austin/
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Introduction
01:20 Melissa’s journey as a first-generation, mixed-race woman in gaming
04:15 How Melissa’s passion for helping people shaped her path in technical art
07:45 The key turning points that defined Melissa’s career
12:30 The challenge of representation, and why visibility matters
16:10 Finding the right allies, even when female mentors were scarce
19:50 How Melissa transitioned from individual contributor to manager and lessons learned
24:05 Why advocating for her team’s needs has been Melissa’s most rewarding part of leadership
28:40 How going “off script” during a Girls Who Code event created an unforgettable impact
32:15 Melissa’s hopes for the gaming industry and how she’s shaping its evolution
36:40 What She Lights the Way means to Melissa
38:30 Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
STORIES:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories
PODCAST:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
https://shelightstheway.substack.com/
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Bevin Victoria’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. Once a gymnast chasing Olympic dreams, a devastating injury forced her to pivot, fueling a lifelong passion for the arts. Later, she confronted the harsh realities of pursuing acting and chose to rewrite her story, creating roles for herself and forging opportunities in spaces where she often stood alone. Her raw honesty about Imposter Syndrome and the power of showing up will inspire you to rethink what’s possible.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more empowering stories from remarkable women.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/bevinvictoria-interview-transcript
EPISODE LINKS:
Bevin’s Website: https://www.bevinvictoria.com/
Bevin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bevinvictoria/
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 A Heartwarming Encounter
01:28 Introducing Bevin Victoria
02:43 Bevin's Multifaceted Career
04:18 Pivotal Moments and Challenges
07:43 The Power of Representation
15:26 Embracing Multicultural Identity
23:42 Resilience Through Adversity
26:13 Facing the Worst Possible Scenario
26:47 Navigating Life's Challenges
27:35 Rewriting Your Story
28:30 Embracing Authenticity
34:07 Defining Success on Your Terms
38:23 Advice to My Younger Self
41:18 What She Lights the Way Means to Bevin
43:01 Conclusion and Reflections
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
STORIES:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories
PODCAST:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
https://shelightstheway.substack.com/
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Fran Wilde, a two-time Nebula Award-winning author, self-proclaimed "battle poet" and teacher, takes us on a journey through her creative process. From embracing failure to finding the magic in messes, Fran shares how curiosity can be a transformative tool for growth. We dive into her upcoming novel, A Philosophy of Thieves, and explore profound questions about humanity, technology, and storytelling’s power to reshape lives. Whether you’re a writer, a dreamer, or simply someone navigating life’s twists and turns, Fran’s wisdom will leave you ready to embrace your creative messes.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more empowering stories from remarkable women.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/franwilde-interview-transcript
STORY:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories/penpornkoanantakool
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
X: x.com/she_lights_way
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
Fran’s Website:
https://www.franwilde.net/about
Fran’s Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/franwilde
Fran’s Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/fran_wilde/
Fran’s Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/franwildewrites/
Fran’s X:
https://x.com/fran_wilde/
Fran on GoodReads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5214733.Fran_Wilde
A Philosophy of Thieves excerpt:
https://reactormag.com/erewhon-announcement-a-philosophy-of-thieves-by-fran-wilde/
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Introduction
01:30 Fran’s creative journey
07:00 The Power of Finishing
12:00 Embracing failure and iteration
15:00 The Magic of making messes
18:30 Preview of A Philosophy of Thieves
23:30 Intersection of technology and humanity
28:00 Storytelling as transformation
33:00 What ‘She Lights the Way’ means to Fran
35:00 Closing thoughts
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
Sharon Davis—former First Lady of California and lifelong advocate—shares her remarkable journey of public service, personal growth and unwavering commitment to making a difference. At 70, Sharon reflects on her decades of experience, offering timeless lessons on leadership, aging well, and thriving through life’s challenges.
She reveals how her early career as a flight attendant taught her to master people skills, handle crises, and excel under pressure—qualities that shaped her future roles in politics and business. She emphasizes the lost art of listening as a transformative tool for bridging divides and fostering collaboration in today’s polarized world.
From working across political divides to advocating for children’s health and literacy, Sharon’s experiences highlight the enduring value of perseverance, curiosity, and humility. Her mother-in-law’s mantra, “bloom where you’re planted,” encourages us all to thrive wherever life takes us and to bring our best selves to every opportunity.
Sharon’s stories of resilience, from weathering political storms to finding joy in everyday moments with family, remind us that even in life’s challenges, we can choose to rise above and move forward with grace. She also dives into the importance of health—physical, mental, and emotional—and how living intentionally creates a foundation for thriving in later years.
This conversation is a celebration of resilience, connection, and making a difference. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, leadership lessons, or tips for living boldly, Sharon’s wisdom will leave you motivated to excel at every stage of life.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/sharon-davis-transcript
STORY:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories/sharondavis
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
First Ladies of California:
https://web.archive.org/web/20130122054052/http://firstladies.library.ca.gov/34-Davis.html
Sharon Davis on Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharon_Davis
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Introductions & Opening Thoughts
02:00 Aging Gracefully
04:00 Early Career Lessons
06:00 Building Bridges in Leadership
10:00 Practical Solutions for a Better Future
15:00 A Family Foundation in Public Service
20:00 Children’s Education & Media Literacy
26:00 Advice for Future Generations
28:30 Resilience in Life’s Challenges
33:00 What ‘She Lights the Way’ Means to Sharon
34:30 Closing Remarks
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Minette Norman, author, speaker, and leadership consultant, shares her journey from aspiring actor to tech industry leader to champion for inclusive leadership. She reflects on the power of psychological safety, the pain of exclusion, and the transformative impact of truly inclusive cultures. Her candid insights and practical advice inspire us to shine our lights brightly and lead the way to a more inclusive and innovative world.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/minette-norman-transcript
STORY:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories/minettenorman
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
X: x.com/she_lights_way
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
Minette’s Website:
https://www.minettenorman.com/
Minette’s LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/minettenorman/
Minette’s Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/minettenorman/
Minette’s X:
https://x.com/minettenorman
Minette’s Books:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BQJRJDNH
KEY MOMENTS:
01:30 Introductions
03:00 Career transition from acting to tech
06:30 Moving from tech to leadership consulting
08:00 Feeling like an outsider
10:00 Understanding the science behind exclusion
12:30 From corporate leadership to entrepreneurship
16:30 Self-awareness in leadership
20:00 Looking beyond the loudest voices in the room
21:00 Creating inclusive environments in remote workplaces
27:00 Debunking myths about inclusive leadership
30:00 Intersection of personal values and professional mission
31:00 The “Voice of the Underheard”
34:30 The Google Project Aristotle findings on psychological safety
36:00 Defining success
37:00 Advice for aspiring leaders
39:00 Closing thoughts
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
Laura Stanfill shares how a traumatic brain injury transformed her approach to life, work and advocacy for neurodivergent voices on her path from journalism to publishing and writing her debut novel, Singing Lessons for the Stylish Canary. She shares her insights on amplifying underrepresented voices, the magic of indie bookstores, finding balance, and redefining success in the literary world.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more empowering stories from remarkable women.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/laura-stanfill-transcript
STORY:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories/laurastanfill
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
https://shelightstheway.substack.com/
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
Laura’s Website:
Laura’s Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/lhstanfill/
Laura’s Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/laura.stanfill.98
Laura’s X:
Forest Avenue Press Website:
https://www.forestavenuepress.com/
Forest Avenue Press Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/forestavenuepress/
Forest Avenue Press Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ForestAvenuePress
Forest Avenue Press X:
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Introduction
02:30 Meet Laura Stanfill
04:30 The Brain Injury that Changed Everything
09:30 Neurodiversity and Storytelling
15:00 Transition from Journalism to Publishing
20:30 The Magic of Indie Bookstores
24:30 The Role of Community in Journalism
28:00 Publishing Her Debut Novel
35:00 Self-Care and Finding Balance
36:30 Redefining Success in Publishing
40:00 Trusting Your Voice
42:00 The Meaning of "She Lights the Way"
46:00 Closing Remarks
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Iwalani Kaluhiokalani—a biracial businesswoman, artist, and wellness pioneer—reflects on her journey across two distinct passions: Pilates and painting. She shares how her childhood love for swing sets evolved into running a successful Pilates and GYROTONIC® wellness studio while pursuing her passion as an international artist. Iwalani reflects on the key moments that shaped her, the lessons she’s learned, and her path to embracing her role as a leader. With roots in diverse cultural backgrounds, she brings a rich perspective on identity and the power of creating space for others to thrive.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/iwalani-kaluhiokalani-transcript
STORY:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/stories/iwalanikaluhiokalani
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://medium.com/@she_lights_the_way
https://shelightstheway.substack.com/
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
Website: https://www.iwalanikaluhiokalani.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iwalanikaluhiokalani/
SmartBody Movement: https://www.smartbodymovement.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smartbodymovement/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smrtbdymovement/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iwalanikaluhiokalani
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivalanikinetics/
Twitter: https://x.com/ikaluhiokalani
Kingston Gallery: https://www.kingstongallery.com/iwalani-kaluhiokalani
ACTivate Residency: https://bostonarts.org/artist-story/activate-residency-iwalani-kaluhiokalani/
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Introduction and Early Inspirations
01:16 Meet Iwalani Kaluhiokalani
02:23 Childhood love of swing set foreshadows future career
05:00 Discovering Pilates
12:00 Recognizing her leadership
15:00 Iwalani’s multicultural heritage & identity
17:00 Business journey, transitioning from student to teacher
24:02 Commitment to wellness
29:00 Impact of the pandemic
31:13 Challenges with continuity
33:00 Self-discovery and identity
41:00 Overcoming challenges
43:38 Leadership philosophy
49:54 Evolution of success
01:01:16 Future goals
01:02:00 What ‘She Lights the Way’ means to Iwalani
Tuesday Nov 12, 2024
Tuesday Nov 12, 2024
Hear from Vinothini Raju and Diane Mueller, leaders in the world of AI and cloud native, as they share their insights into the powerful dynamics of their mentor-mentee relationship, built on mutual learning and respect. Vinothini discusses her journey from consulting to innovating with generative AI, while Diane reflects on the joy of mentoring and continuous learning. Discover how their inspiring mentor-mentee bond fuels meaningful change and illuminates paths for others. This duo illustrates that the best mentorships aren't just about guidance—they're about growing together.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/vino-diane-transcript
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
X: x.com/she_lights_way
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/blog
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
gopaddle.io:
https://gopaddle.io/
Vino’s LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinothini-raju-9817ab5/
Vino’s X:
https://x.com/vinothiniraju
Vino’s Presentation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82ACSa5ktL8
Diane’s LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/muellerdiane/
Diane’s X:
https://x.com/pythondj
EPISODE TOPICS:
00:00 Introduction
00:18 Vino’s Current Work
01:42 Vino’s Career Journey
03:01 Inspiration from Film & Life Lessons
06:00 Early Influences
07:19 The Power of Gratitude
07:59 The Impact of Mentorship
09:30 Practical Applications of AI
12:10 Key Aspects of Successful Mentor/Mentee Relationship
16:10 Real-World AI Ethics & Implementation
18:30 Security and Privacy in AI
19:55 Most Rewarding Experiences
22:00 Defining Success
23:35 What “She Lights the Way” means to Vino & Diane
26:54 Closing Remarks
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
Bela Friedman, daughter of Holocaust survivors, shares her remarkable journey from a successful career in public relations to a life dedicated to helping others as a life coach and hypnotherapist. She discusses the transformative power of intuition and gratitude in reshaping her life and finding purpose. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of following one's inner voice to live authentically and inspire others.
Born in a displaced persons camp to Holocaust survivor parents, Bela Friedman shares her remarkable journey from PR executive to transformational life coach. Discover how meditation, intuition, and the power of daily practice helped her find her true calling and now guides her work empowering others.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/bela-friedman
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
X: x.com/she_lights_way
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS A
pple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/blog
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
Bela’s Website:
https://belacoaching.com/
Lessons from a Fall (Book):
https://belacoaching.com/lessons-from-a-fall/
Bela’s LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bela-friedman-309b1b4/
Bela’s Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/login/device-based/regular/login/?login_attempt=1
Bela’s Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/belalifecoaching/
KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Opening thoughts on intuition and listening to your higher self
01:30 Introduction to Bela's story and background
03:00 Bela's current work as life coach and hypnotherapist
04:00 Early years as child of Holocaust survivors
05:00 Early career explorations and independence
06:30 Living in Berkeley during the late 1960s
08:00 Pivotal moment of transformation after father's passing
09:30 Building and rebuilding her PR business
11:00 Discovering her confidence and risk-taking nature
12:30 Jewish identity and experiencing anti-Semitism
17:00 Women's empowerment and creating support communities
20:00 The power of gratitude practices
21:00 Impact of mentors: Betty, Kat Wilson, and Magali Pasha
24:30 Lessons learned from personal challenges
27:00 Redefining success through helping others
29:00 The importance of listening to intuition
31:00 What "She Lights The Way" means to Bela
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
With refreshing candor, Anna Maria Ponzi shares her journey from planting vineyards at age four with her family to leading one of Oregon’s first and most iconic wine brands. Facing a male-dominated industry, she had to “work twice as hard” to build the renowned Ponzi name. She reflects on balancing motherhood with the demands of an international business and the complex dynamics of growing a family enterprise with her sister.
Anna Maria opens up about the lasting influence of her trailblazing mother, who instilled resilience and self-sufficiency, emphasizing independence over conformity. Now leading Linfield University’s wine studies program, she reflects on success, intentional living, and her mission to mentor the next generation.
Her story is one of bold leadership and the importance of slowing down to savor life’s moments, leaving a legacy that goes well beyond wine.
Thank you for listening ❤ See below for transcript, timestamps, to get in touch, and more.
TRANSCRIPT:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/amponzi-interview-transcript
FOLLOW:
Website: shelightstheway.com/
Newsletter: www.shelightstheway.com/newsletter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/she-lights-the-way/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shelightstheway/
X: x.com/she_lights_way
LISTEN TO THE POD:
Podbean: https://shelightstheway.podbean.com/
RSS: https://bit.ly/SheLightsTheWayRSS
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4091de0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4h8Kq0N
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3YeCt1m
READ THE BLOG:
https://www.shelightstheway.com/blog
CONNECT:
Contact us: www.shelightstheway.com/contact
Share a story: www.shelightstheway.com/story
EPISODE LINKS:
Anna Maria’s Website: https://www.amponzi.com/
Anna Maria’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-maria-ponzi-86b14a245/
Anna Maria’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amponzico
Linfield University Article: https://news.linfield.edu/ponzi-named-wine-education-director/
Oregon Wine Press Article: https://www.oregonwinepress.com/article?articleTitle=fermenting-the-future--1722535118--3768--news
Pinot Girl Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anna-Maria-Ponzi/author/B085RF66LK
Ponzi Vineyards: https://www.ponzivineyards.com/our-story/
Anthony’s Circle: https://www.anthonyscircle.org/
In Memoriam: Maria Stewart: https://www.oregonwinepress.com/in-memoriam-maria-stuart
EPISODE TOPICS:
00:00 Introduction & Welcome
01:00 Early Days of Ponzi Vineyards & Family Legacy
03:30 Spirit of Collaboration in Oregon’s Wine Community
05:34 Growing the Winery with Her Sister
08:30 Challenges Faced as Women in the Wine Industry
13:54 Her Mother's Influence and Early Lessons in Independence
17:30 The “Four Ounce Pour” Philosophy
22:30 Reflections on Intentional Living
24:10 Writing “Pinot Girl”
28:00 Giving Back to the Community
35:28 New Role at Linfield University
39:00 Evolving Leadership Perspective
42:30 Pride in Family and Career Achievements
50:50 The Future of Oregon’s Wine Industry
54:30 Evolving Definition of Success
56:35 Reflections on Community and Land Preservation
57:00 What “She Lights the Way” Means to Anna Maria