Mic drop from Shirley Chisholm coming at you this week! Shirley Chisholm was the first Black congresswoman and was elected in 1968. A champion for social justice, she fought for equal rights and opportunity throughout her seven terms in the House.

Chisholm's words are a powerful call to action for leaders at all levels. They remind me that progress isn't passive. It requires initiative, ownership, and a willingness to translate ideas into tangible results.

Here's how you can embody this leadership approach:

• Identify problems, then propose solutions. Great leaders don't just point out shortcomings; they actively seek ways to improve. It's easy to say what's wrong but that won't fix it. 
• Be a champion for your ideas. Clearly articulate the benefits of your proposed solutions and inspire others to get on board.
• Take initiative and ownership. Don't wait for someone else to take the lead. Be the one to move the needle forward.
• Embrace collaboration. The best ideas often come from diverse perspectives. Build a team that shares your commitment to progress.

Real leadership isn't about titles or positions. It's about the courage to step up, make your voice heard, and translate ideas into action.

Listen to this week's Ladies in Leadership Podcast to hear how community leader, Heather DeVine is taking action and implementing ideas to make our community and others a better place! 

We can all play a vital role in amplifying our voices and others who are often unheard. This week, let's hone our advocacy skills to champion underrepresented voices. 

Our communities thrive when everyone has a seat at the table. When representation is truly representative! By advocating for those who might not have the platform to speak up for themselves, we ensure diverse perspectives are considered and solutions address the needs of the whole community.

This week's episode is an interview with Heather DeVine of Transcend Ideas and People Spread Love. There are moments in life when a simple card holds the weight of a thousand words, as Heather Divine of People Spread Love knows well. Her heartfelt response to a church shooting in 2015—a story she shares with us—began with nine sympathy cards and evolved into a nationwide outpouring of support. Heather's journey, which intertwines the roles of motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship, exemplifies how leadership is often born from love and empathy. You don't want to miss our discussion! Listen Here!