Hays County Women in Leadership

Hays County Women in Leadership

Celebrating women who keep local commerce alive a product of Barton Publications

A word from the publisher

W

hether the desk is messy with tons of papers or clean as a whistle, women have all kinds of leadership styles.

And we are here to celebrate women locally who have taken the reins of businesses or organizations of Hays County.

Barton Publications, a primarily women-owned business, encourages you to take a look through this magazine and see the proud women in our area.

We’ve got realtors, managers, doctors, yoga instructors, lenders. We’ve got women who have been elected through the years – from school board to the Texas Legislature and to Governor – all from the Hays and south Travis county area.

Some grew up here,

others came to Kyle and Buda as part of a routine job find, and they all have interesting stories.

So, read on and find out who: • was a physical therapy major in college and is now in finances; • was an Army ROTC cadet; • followed in her grandmother’s footsteps; • sold bookmarks and her mother’s homemade lunches while in gradeschool; • is a super HGTV fan; • was a social worker before opening a business; • is a licensed cosmetologist but is now a property manager.

These and more are the fascinating stories behind our local women.

Thanks for all the great work. We salute you.

Cyndy Slovak-Barton Publisher of the Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch

INSIDE:

Q&A

Local business women share experiences, advice and personal information,

pages 3-25

2 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

2018: Year of the Woman.................................... 26 Getting Women Elected...................................... 27 Women in the Workforce: By the Numbers...... 28 Getting Women into Leadership........................ 29 Women and STEM............................................... 30

Christi Anderson Real Estate broker/ owner at Asset Realty What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?

A friend of mine suggested it when I was looking to get out of office management.

That was 14 years ago!

Call or stop by today!

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

I always say I would love to be a crime scene investigator or private detective. I obviously read and watch too many of those types of shows!

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

For fun - Sue Grafton series – Private investigator is the main character and of course I love that! Business reading: ‘Dare to Lead’ – good one.

What was your major in college and did it help you in your career?

I attended the college of “life”. I got married at 20.

Starting my senior year of HS I started working in a business office. That is how I progressed into office management. Yes, I own a real estate brokerage and that certainly includes management and people skills.

Who was your first crush?

A boy named Patrick in the 4th grade. Funny thing is my husband is named Patrick What makes you, you?

I don’t mince words, I am honest and one of the most loyal friends you can have. I will have your back. Personally, and in business.

What was your first car and what do you remember about Who was the most impact- it? ful teacher or educator you 1974 MGB convertible in had in high school or college? 1986. It came from the junk Mrs. Sitton - Bowie HS – yard for $400 and my parents she was the office education and I brought it back to life. teacher. She was the most lovely kind-hearted womWhat advice would you an. I moved to Austin from give a young professional Amarillo in the middle of my entering today’s job market? junior year and it was quite an Learn your job to the best of adjustment. She was a good your ability and don’t expect listener. others to have your back

when you don’t have theirs.

Save up to 6 months of income before you quit your day job. Real estate is a hard job of constantly working for the next transaction. Build a large client base and treat them right! Do the right thing even when no one is looking.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

Do the right thing even when no one is looking.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure TV show and why?

Anything involving crime, PI and of course, Game of Thrones.

What was the first job you ever had and how did it help you career-wise?

Taco Villa in Amarillo – loved that job. 25 cent burritos with employee discount. I learned to work with others and be responsible to my work schedule and role as a team member.

CHRISTI ANDERSON Q&A, 4

Christi Anderson, Realtor® 587 Main Street • Buda 512-971-2922

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Amber Bass Audiologist at Austin ENT What lead you into audiology?

I've always had compassion and empathy for people, especially those that face the challenges associated with hearing loss. My brother was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma later into my career.

I was thankful to have gone into audiology to assist and guide him for proper treatment, including a hearing aid.

Who was the impactful teacher or educator you had in high school or college?

I majored in communication disorders with a minor in speech communication in college, later going on to obtain my doctorate in audiology. I took several classes under Dr. Roy Buckelew who had an incredible way to connect to the audience when presenting, especially in the classroom. Upon graduation, he wrote me a five page hand written recommendation for graduate school. I will always be thankful for his kind words, encouragement to succeed, guidance, and passion for teaching. To this day, I am very cautious about saying "um" when giving a presentation, due to his thorough teaching! He also taught me the importance of always being genuine and relating to people on a personal level. I believe this is important in healthcare.

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

I typically read autobiographies or motivational books. I recently finished two books by Rachel Hollis, "Girl Wash Your Face" and "Girl Stop Apologizing". I find goal driven books helpful when motivating patients to address the challenges associated with hearing loss.

Positivity with proper guidance is never a bad thing.

I love to see modern day women unafraid to face their dreams, persistent about overcoming the challenges associated with reaching for success, and ultimately creating the life they want. It's incredibly rewarding personally to see the growth of women in leadership and business. I hope to contribute by providing patients with the latest advancements in hearing aid technology.

What advice would you give a young professional entering into today's job market?

With motivation and determination, anything is possible. Pick a career that comes naturally to you. I have always found caregiving rewarding, especially as an audiologist.

What was the best advice you have ever received in your life?

It's how you face the struggles that makes you successful. I think this applies to anything in life. Keep showing up. I am incredibly thankful for the growth and advancements in hearing aid technology and grateful that I have been able to see these changes over the last decade of my career. I plan to "keep showing up" and do my part in contributing to the community.

What type of music do you like?

Music is such an important part of my life. I love such a wide variety from country to hip hop. Living in Austin and having exposure to so many talented artists makes it even more exciting when fitting musician earplugs and hearing aids. With bluetooth capability, you can stream music directly to your hearing aids with no hassle or extra devices.

Where do you feel women are in business today and where can improvement take place?

4 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

Women are shattering stereotypes and creating a movement for equality in leadership roles. It's encouraging to see female leaders create job roles for mothers with the importance of family and work life balance. I hope to continue to see more female mentors and advisers who create a network of support for future female entrepreneurs.

What makes you, you?

I value the importance of

compassion, empathy, and respect. It's important to me to demonstrate these qualities when caring for patients or being involved in hearing healthcare and as I reach out to the community. Fitting the appropriate hearing aid technology involves truly listening to the patient, their daily living activities, and listening needs. I care about my patients and want them to know this each time they leave my office.

CHRISTI ANDERSON, FROM PAGE 3 Who is your role model in life and why?

I don’t necessarily have only one. I have a very small special unit of friends and family in my life that I take examples from. Main thing I strive for is to show good character and again: Do the right thing even when no one is looking.

What type of music do you like?

Classic rock and old country. I’m a southern girl

through and through.

What was your favorite TV show or movie growing up and why?

Anything that was on after school .. and I loved Friends and Boston Legal when I was older.

Where do you feel women in business are today?

This is 2019 – the possibilities are endless for women in any workplace. Go for it!

Supporting Women in Leadership 1019 Main Street, Buda TX 78610 (512) 295-3667

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community who feel most comfortable communicating in their native language.

Sandra L. Worrell

Who was the most impactful teacher or educator you had in high school or college?

Dr. Naum Mittelman was my high school chemistry professor in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was accomplished in his career and had been well known internationally as a leader in his field. In his retirement, he educated our young minds and challenged his students to push the envelope in life and our future careers, striving for excellence and attaining it by working hard.

Family Medicine, ARC Kyle Plum Creek Associate Chief, ARC Family Medicine Department

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

I read “Crush” by Nicole Williams. It was the last of a series I was reading. I usually decompress, after a What spurred you into the long day of work and after career path you’ve chosen? my kiddos have gone to bed, As a child, I always looked by immersing myself in a up to physicians. Being romance novel. They are my born with a unique medical guilty pleasure. condition, it was my doctors who were innovative in What advice would you figuring out how to ensure give a young professional that I could live as normal entering today’s job market? a life as I do today, and who You can do anything inspired me to become a you can imagine if you put doctor. your mind to it. Don’t limit yourself by limiting your What would you have dreams or suppressing your done if you didn’t work at imagination. Surround the job you currently have? yourself with positive people I would have served in the and focus on accomplishing U.S. Army. I was actually an each step in the pathway Army ROTC cadet on a full toward accomplishing your scholarship at The University goals in your career and in of Texas at Austin, but health life. issues led to my changing my career path in my junior What was the best advice year. you received in your life?

Always do your best. At What was your major in the end of the day, no matter college and did it help you what the outcome, you can in your career? be proud of yourself and I majored in Kinesiology know in your heart that you with a minor in Spanish did the best you possibly Language. Kinesiology has could. helped me understand the bio-mechanics of What is your favorite movement, allowing me to guilty pleasure TV show and better explain to my patients why? how they got injured and Law and Order SVU. I how they will heal. My ability can binge watch this show to communicate fluently in for hours! I try to unravel Spanish has allowed me to the “who and why” right serve the members of my alongside the detectives.

6 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

What was the first job you ever had and how did it help you career-wise?

My first job was a summer job at the U.S. Embassy in Argentina. I worked entering data for the U.S. Consular in the Visa section. I was fourteen at the time and didn’t really grasp how unique of an opportunity that was. That job taught me that attention to detail was critical, so important in medicine.

Who is your role model in life and why?

I looked up to my dad as my role model. He overcame poverty and had two full and successful careers prior to retiring for the second time and opening up what would be his most successful endeavor and legacy. He built a family, traveled the world, and was both financially and personally successful, while continuing to not only set new goals but accomplish those goals as well. He was never too busy to not be at home for dinner, help out with homework, or play with

us as kids. He was always encouraging and generous. I strive to be as accomplished as he was in life and to leave a positive impact on those I leave behind one day, just as he did.

What type of music do you like?

It definitely depends on my mood, but I most enjoy country music and the hits from the 80s.

Where do you feel women in business are today?

Where can improvement take place?

I encounter so many strong successful women every day. We are doctors, lawyers, CEOs, and more.

Many of us have broken down the traditional gender roles and become the primary bread-winners of our households. We are professionals, wives, moms, bakers of school class cupcakes and menders of ripped jeans. We are improving our future by serving as strong female role models for our children.

Women and educational attainment The educational attainment of women ages 25 to 64 in the labor force has risen substantially over the past 45 years. In 2017, 43 percent of women ages 25 to 64 held a bachelor’s degree and higher, com-

pared with 11 percent in 1970. In 2017, 6 percent of women in the labor force had less than a high school diploma – that is, did not graduate from high school or earn a GED – down from 34 percent in 1970.

Source: Women in the Labor Force: A Databook, a December 2018 report by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

and care about those that work with me.

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

I would be doing anything having to do with animals and water, so most likely scuba diving or kayaking with, or around, animals every chance I get.

Trisha Wilder Edward Jones Financial Advisor What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?

My personal investment experience as a young investor during my time in banking led me to my career at Edward Jones over fifteen years ago. I made a commitment to help educate

What was your major in college and did help you in your career?

My major in college was physical therapy. It has helped me to remember that your financial health is as important as your physical and mental health.

Who was the most impactful teacher or educator you had in school?

My 5th grade science teacher, Mr. Harvey, in Las Vegas, N.V., who taught me that science is important and to stay curious.

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

I read Michelle Obama’s book, “Becoming.” I chose her book because she’s a strong woman and does everything with grace.

who doesn’t love a Scottish highlander who loves his time-traveling nurse? Plus, the main character, the timetraveling nurse, is a strong female.

What makes you, you?

Well, I’m a mom, a wife, a daughter, a friend, a sister, an aunt, a mentor and a business owner who tries not to take herself too seriously.

Who is your role model?

My mom, Sandra, who had a career United States Air Force and her mom, Jane, (my grandmother), because they were strong women who blazed trails for me but also taught me to love fully.

What advice would you give a young professional entering today’s job market?

Make sure you have a plan and work your plan but also have a support network.

My support network is so important to me! Also, find ways to give back to your community.

What was your favorite TV show or movie growing up and why?

I enjoyed Little House on the Prairie because I wanted to be Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvement take place?

I feel women have always made positive impacts in business and continue to do so. As long as we continue to support each other, our impact will grow and be felt.

The improvement is we need to believe in ourselves.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

My grandfather told me to learn one new thing every day and I do.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure TV show and why?

It’s Outlander, because

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What was your major in college and did it help you in your career? Psychology was my major and absolutely!

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor and why?

Homemade vanilla. It is great on its own, but if you want to change it up you can add to it. I like fresh strawberries and chocolate or crushed cookies or chocolates.

Tamra Tindol Co-owner of the Hays City Store What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen? You could say I was born into the restaurant business.

My grandmother owned a little cafĂŠ in my hometown of Crystal City TX. She worked everyday.

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?  No clue!

What was your first car and what do you remember about it? It was an old magenta pink volkswagon bug. I remember it broke down a lot but more so my parents always knew What’s your favorite brand where I was - whether it was of soft drink and why? where I was supposed to be I don’t drink sodas but I or not. I think because it was think Coke is the best.

Magenta pink. đ&#x;˜Š What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

I don’t get to read as much as I like but the last book was Water for Elephants. I chose it at an airport bookstore because I had heard of it and I liked the cover.

Who was your first crush? My husband was my first crush, my first kiss and my first broken heart. We reconnected 25 years later.

What makes you, you? I guess the things I love.

child, I was blessed that at the age of 13 and knew that dentistry was the path that I wanted to pursue. Our family dentist was so professional, loving, and caring that I wanted to impact other people’s lives the way she impacted mine.

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

Due to falling in love with dentistry at such an early age, I never put much thought into what I would be doing if I had not pursued dentistry.

Sally V. Moser Moser Family & Cosmetic Dentistry What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen? Spending my fair share of time in the dental chair as a

I love my husband and my family. I love good food and celebrations. I love my staff and my clientele and the community that I somehow got so blessed to become a part of. All these things make me me.

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor and why? I know this is going to sound clichÊ and like the typical text book answer, but I honestly do not have a sweet tooth.

What’s your favorite brand of soft drink and why?Â

8 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

What advice would you give a young professional entering today’s job market?

Follow your heart. Don’t worry about the salary at the beginning. You can’t do anything well unless your passionate about it – then you will be good at it and the salary part will work itself out.

thing’ to do in this situation is _____________________.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure TV show and why? Criminal Minds and Law and Order.

What was the first job you ever had and how did it help you career-wise? First paycheck was from spending a Saturday at a clothing store helping with inventory. I hated it.

Who is your role model in life and why? My grandmother. She worked hard and was a great cook. She always had time for us and she enjoyed a good tequila.

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvement take place? I think women have much better opportunities than ever. I feel like there is equality in the work force but What was the best advice I think that is not a popular you’ve ever received in your opinion. The restaurant life? business has always When faced with a decision supported me and other or a choice or a problem the women I know so I can only answer is always: The ‘right speak of this business.

Again, super clichĂŠ but pop genuinely does not appeal to me. No judgement to those that do drink it as long as you brush and floss after enjoying one.

What was your major in college and did it help you in your career? Studying to become a Doctor of Dental Surgery set the foundation for me to learn dentistry at the highest level.

Who was the most impactful teacher or educator you had in high school or college?

I am forever grateful for several amazing educators that impacted my life. Dr. Rodriguez in Peru as well as Dr. Ali at U.S.C. here in the states were both elite level clinicians who taught how to provide nothing but the best care to each and every patient that you see.

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it? As a professional business woman, I find interest in books that help me to understand and find the balance between professionalism, business operations, and personal life. “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People� was my last read and I highly recommend it.

Who was your first crush? When I was 6 a young boy named Juan stole my little heart.

What makes you, you? I enjoy the simple things in life. Always having a positive attitude and treating every person that I meet with joy, respect, and kindness truly removes stress and allows things to fall into place at their own pace.

SALLY MOSER Q&A, 10

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SALLY MOSER, FROM PAGE 8 What was your first car and what do you remember about it?

My first car was a used Mitsubishi Lancer that was not exactly the nicest car on the block but I sure did feel cool being able to drive around with all of my friends.

What advice would you give a young professional entering today’s job market?

Always have a good work ethic, learn from those that have experience in your field, and aspire to surpass the goals that you set for yourself.

Once you surpass those goals, develop new goals to strive for until you surpass those.

Then rinse and repeat. Remember the sky is the limit.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

Stay humble and remember where you came from.

Listen and learn from your elders when they offer their advice.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure TV show and why?

Honestly, I would much rather spend my time being active in the outdoors, but I do enjoy the occasional Friends episode.

What was the first job you ever had and how did it help you career-wise?

The first job I had was shadowing my childhood dentist who was my biggest inspiration. Doing so allowed me to learn what true patient care is.

Who is your role model in life and why?

There are many people that I admire, but at the top of the list are my parents and husband. They have always been my greatest supporters encouraging me to never quit and follow my dreams. Each of them have qualities that helped me grow as a person and business professional.

What type of music do you like?

Trish Wilder

10

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I enjoy all genres of music as long as it has a positive message and is upbeat. I’m not the best dancer out there but who doesn’t love dancing to music that makes you happy.

What was your favorite TV show or movie growing up and why?

I used to love watching Full House with my family as a child. The show always delivered amazing messages all the while making you laugh.

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvement take place?

In my own experience I have several successful professional women figures. I believe that women in business in today’s world can succeed on levels that were unthinkable years ago. Using your drive and determination to reach your business goals is possible for anyone. As women we should uplift, promote and encourage one another in any given situation.

Foreignborn women Foreign-born women were less likely than native-born women to be in the labor force in 2017 (54.5 percent, compared with 57.5 percent). By contrast, foreign-born men were more likely to be in the labor force (78.1 percent) than were native-born men (67.3 percent). Among women, the unemployment rate for foreign-born women, at 4.8 percent, was higher than that for native-born women, at 4.2 percent. At 3.6 percent, the unemployment rate for foreign-born men was lower than that of native-born men (4.6 percent) Source: Women in the Labor Force: A Databook, a December 2018 report by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

Debbie: Flirting with Mermaids by John Kretschmer. I chose it because it keeps me in touch with a lifestyle I lived for numerous years. I backpacked across Europe for 2 years in my 20s. Years later I got an opportunity to start a business and live on a remote island for 10 years. I took it and had the pleasure of crossing paths with people from all different walks of Amy Knight Sherri Mylius Debbie Mylius life and from many different corners of the world. True free spirits traveling by land and many by boat. It’s a fascinating lifestyle to travel by boat. Reading books like Flirting with Mermaids Owners of Proof Liquor & Deli reminds me that the world is full of amazing natural What spurred you into the Gotta be a boozey ice cream beauty, fun adventures and career path you’ve chosen? for this lady! interesting people and also Debbie: I’ve always worked Amy: Salted Caramel with how rewarding it is to step for small businesses. I’m proud marshmallow. outside of your comfort zone to say that I’ve never worked

and experience that. for a large corporation. Working What’s your favorite brand Amy: “The Captured”: A for small businesses gave me of soft drink and why?

True Story of Abduction by the opportunity to learn from Debbie: I don’t drink sodas.

Indians on the Texas Frontier, some very inventive, creative, I just don’t like em. However, Scott Zesch. Chose it because wise entrepreneurs. These my favorite canned beverage my DNA results confirmed experiences helped give me the is a local sparking beverage my partial Cherokee courage to eventually become “Waterloo Watermelon composition. an entrepreneur myself. I’ve sparkling water “ if that

been fortunate enough to start qualifies.

Who was your first crush? up three businesses over the Amy: Austin’s Sure Sugar Debbie: In real life, a past 16 years & I look forward Soda, Orange flavor. Our friend of my older brother to more entrepreneurial customers love that these local named Alan Kahanek. In the adventures! gems are our fountain choice. movies, Luke Skywalker all Amy: I started selling in

day long! early grade school, from my What was your major in Amy: Peter Frampton mom’s homemade lunches to college and did it help you in

personalized bookmarkers, your career?

What makes you, you? then post grad moved into Debbie: Business major. I Debbie: Not being scared advertising sales, radio and knew from an early age that to follow a dream or an print. Hawking delicious food I wanted to carve my own idea. Even if you fall flat on & booze was a no-brainer! path in life, so I wanted to your face, it’s better to have

learn about the financial taken a chance than to have What would you have done components of running a regrets later. And if you do if you didn’t work at the job business to help me achieve fall, just get up and start over. you currently have? that.

A mistake or wrong choice is Debbie: I would have kept Amy: Bachelor of Arts in worth it, especially if you’re my previous business down in Journalism specialization in able to learn from it and Central America and still be Advertising and yes, it helped. move onward to the next living on an island!

chapter.

Amy: I would be the Who was the most impactful Amy: A left of center female version of Anthony teacher or educator you had in humorous view of pretty Bourdain… an adventurous high school or college? much everything, with a travel writer/reporter.

Debbie: Mr Fogle. He taught deep devotion to all bodies

me a lot about embracing who of water, from ocean to tub.

What’s your favorite ice you are and running with it.

Throw in some Texas Hold cream flavor and why?

Amy: Mr. Phillip Mandel, ‘Em, a weekly round of golf, Debbie: Chocolate Grand Creative Writing high school. & live music, & I am camping Marnier from Amy’s Ice Cream Dr. Angela Ingram, Prof of happily. in Austin. Why? Well, I own a English Southwest Texas State

liquor store so that says it all!

University.

What was your first car

Amy Rogers Knight, Sherri Mylius and Debbie Mylius

12 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

and what do you remember about it?

Debbie: 1982 Monte Carlo…I remember wishing it was a Monte Carlo SS so it would go faster!

Amy: 1967 Ford Mustang.

My dad told me he would match whatever I earned from lifeguarding, so my $800 bought me a $1,900 pale green beauty.

What advice would you give a young professional entering today’s job market?

Debbie: To maintain a balance between whatever career path you choose and making time to do the things in life that make you happy and fulfilled. I think that is essential. It’s great to have a successful business/career but be sure to put forth the effort to spend time with people that bring you joy and laughter!

Amy: Partake (get off your phone), Proceed (visualize what you want & take steps to achieve it) & Prosper (be strong and flourish at every turn).

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

Debbie: Patience, persistence and perseverance and you shall prevail!

Amy: Surround yourself with folks who are better than you at whatever it is you are interested in; it elevates your game. Also the true measure of a woman is from the eyes up.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure TV show and why?

Debbie: “Three’s Company” was my guilty pleasure growing up… cheesy but John Ritter was off the charts funny and as a young teenage girl this show just did it for me! My mom and I shared many laughs watching Three’s Company together. All around great cast!

Amy: “Bold and the Beautiful,” because my friend plays “Katy Logan” on it so it’s fun to watch her at work.

DEBBIE MYLIUS AND AMY KNIGHT Q&A, 14

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DEBBIE MYLIUS AND AMY KNIGHT, FROM PAGE 12 What was the first job you ever had and how did it help you career-wise?

Debbie: My first job was at a jewelry store, owned by a man named Burt Witcher. His mom and dad helped him run the store. It was a wonderful experience. Looking back now, 33 years later, it’s nice to remember how they worked together as a family, had their differences at work but all seemed to still genuinely get along outside of work.

Amy: I was an apprentice draftsman for an engineering co. at 14 yrs. old. Somehow my dad thought it would be a good idea to work in a cube farm with a bunch of chain-smoking, coffee swilling, dirty joke telling old men. Suppose it helped, by teaching me to communicate with folks outside of my comfort zone at an early age Who is your role model in life and why?

Debbie: My mom, Dorothy. I grew up in a small town in Texas, a town called Yoakum. My mom lived there her entire life until she got Alzheimer’s and couldn’t take care of herself anymore. At that point, we moved her to Austin so that we could assist in her care. For a small town woman, who grew up in the depression era, it was pretty incredible that she encouraged us kids to think for ourselves and that she also supported our choices even if she didn’t necessarily agree with them.

Amy: Babe Didrikson Zaharias because she was one of the best female athletes of all time, winning 10 LPGA championships, was a superb promoter of her own brand and even an accomplished Vaudeville entertainer and a native Texan to boot.

What type of music do you like?

Debbie: I like a lot of different types of music thanks to being exposed to so many different genres from years of working at a locally owned record store, Waterloo Records in Austin. I especially love the whole glam rock era (Bowie, Mott the Hoople, Sweet, T-Rex,) but I also really love old school Mississippi blues. I could go on an on about all the music I love, so best I end it right here!

Amy: Both kinds, Rock AND Roll, and jazz, prog rock, alternative, vintage funk, reggae, country, hiphop, and classical. Not a fan of Top 40 country, pop, gospel or metal, or bluegrass.

What was your favorite TV show or movie growing up and why?

Debbie: I loved all the Star Wars movies and I loved Star Trek & Battlestar Galactica! Why? Because it’s a captivating topic and also really important to be exposed to the concept that there are life forms beyond our own existence!

Amy: Island of The Blue Dolphins because it’s a true story of a shipwrecked little girl who fends for herself, befriends a canine mongrel, & exists for years until her rescue.

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvement take place?

Debbie: Women are finally being recognized and put into positions that were once dominated by men and that’s a liberating feeling!

Amy: We’ve come a long way, baby! Political pressure for pay equality & sexual harassment accountability, coupled with governmental initiatives for women to start their own businesses, are helping to inspire more women to dive in with both feet.

14 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

Debby Brewington and Kelly Reyes Owners of Results Weight Loss & Med Spa What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?

Debby was having considerable health problems and in need of losing 100 pounds. Her doctor guided her to the Ideal Protein diet and her sister Kelly joined her for support. The diet was so successful, they decided to open a clinic in Buda, Results Weight Loss & Med Spa, formally Buda’s Protein Weight Loss Center. They saw the need to help clients with sagging skin, increased wrinkles, noticeable cellulite and thinning hair because they themselves experienced this. They decided to add on a med spa to offer a natural, non-invasive way to minimize these problems. The medical aesthetician uses LED Light Therapy and medical grade skin products to get rid of areas of fat and tighten skin.

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

Debby & Kelly have always had a heart for special needs children. Both have served in the teaching field working with the learning disabled. Debby was a special education teacher and Kelly owned a private school for special needs children. This commonality brought them together to open KIS Education & Math Research Center in 2007. Their goal was to develop math

teaching methods for learning challenged children. They have authored two math programs and continue to develop additional programs.

What was your major in college and did it help you in your career?

Debby received a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Certification in Special Education and a Masters in Elementary Mathematics. Kelly received a Bachelor’s of Arts & Sciences and a Masters in Organizational Management.

Both sisters followed similar paths into education and business. Both were involved in conducting teacher training seminars, which provided them public speaking experience. The entrepreneur spirit runs deep through their veins so opening a business together educating adults about healthy lifestyle living just seemed natural.

What makes your business or services different from others?

Results Weight Loss & Med Spa offers the Ideal Protein weight loss method, voted the #1 Diet in America by physicians. Our success lies in the specially formulated bioprotein utilized in this product.

There is no other diet making

DEBBY BREWINGTON AND KELLY REYES Q&A, 15

DEBBY BREWINGTON AND KELLY REYES, FROM PAGE 14 the scientific claim that this protocol boasts. There are no gimmicks or false promises. The formulated protein propels clients to burn fat, transform their bodies, manage medications and maintain their weight loss for life. Addressing the culprit of insulin, this program is successful in reversing and treating many medical conditions. Each client experiences a private coaching session, which guides them through this life-transforming journey.

Our focus is on the whole body to help our clients be the best they can be.

How do you support the community?

Debby & Kelly had to travel 30 minutes to the closest Ideal Protein clinic every week so they decided to open Results to provide a closer clinic for the local community. They also wanted to try a different approach; expanded hours

into the evening and on Saturday’s, purchasing sample packets to try the food, private one-on-one coaching with certified coaches and they’re oneof-a kind community store, Pepper’s Market.

Debby & Kelly wanted to provide support for anyone in the community attempting to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.

Pepper’s Market offers foods that support many diets such as Keto, Whole 30, Weight Watchers, diabetes & heart healthy. It also carries gluten free buns and cakes; pharmaceutical grade protein foods and snacks; precooked meals of grilled veggies and meat; pharmaceutical grade supplements; Walden Farms zero calorie, zero carb condiments; all natural beef sticks, and Shirataki noodles & rice. Anyone is welcome to shop Pepper’s Market during office hours.

With professional weight loss coaching, you can make your weight problems a distant memory Ideal Protein has been evolving for over 20 years. Our medically developed weight loss protocol and smarter lifestyle choices education offers dieters what they really want… a structured program that can put an end to constant dieting. Your personal weight loss coach will empower you with the knowledge you’ll need to develop better living habits and smarter eating choices after the program ends.

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Women in occupations and industry In 2017, women accounted for 52 percent of all workers employed in management, professional, and related occupations, 19 percent of software developers, 28 percent of chief executives, and 40 percent of physicians and surgeons were women, whereas 90 percent of registered nurses, 79 percent of elementary and middle school teachers, and 60 percent of accountants and auditors were women.

In 2017, women accounted for more than half of all workers within several industry sectors: financial activities

(53 percent), education and health services (75 percent), leisure and hospitality (51 percent), and other services (52 percent). (Other services includes repair and maintenance industries; personal and laundry services; membership associations and organizations; and private households.) However, women were substantially underrepresented (relative to their share of total employment) in agriculture (25 percent), mining (13 percent), construction (9 percent), manufacturing (30 percent), and transportation and utilities (24 percent)

Source: Women in the Labor Force: A Databook, a December 2018 report by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Visit Plum Creek’s Kirkham Circle would have you do unto them.

I just try to understand what people want, and I give that to them whenever I can.

What spurred you into the career path you have chosen?

I really liked watching HGTV, and so I simply jumped into the deep end of real estate. I shortly found out that it wasn’t everything HGTV portrays. In fact, it was actually quite different. I found a mentor who explained to me that the only job description I have is to help people. That is the best part about my job!

Buying or selling? Give Alison a call at

512.256.4882

Allison Southern Ullom Real Estate agent at Sky Realty

You’re Invited!

Join Alison Southern Ullom with Sky Realty for a Monthly Coffee Hour on the 3rd Friday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. No need to be in the market for a home to enjoy company, talk business and see our vendor reference book.

Monthly Coffee Hour happens at 156 Kirkham Circle, Suite A in Kyle.

156 Kirkham Circle Suite A , Kyle, TX 78640 www.kylerealestateagent.com | aliclaire888@gmail.com

16 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

What achievement are you most proud of in your current career?

I have been in my current career about three years now.

This year I was blown away when, with several other amazing businesspeople, I was nominated for businessperson of the year and small business of the year at the Kyle Chamber of Commerce. I was so excited just to be nominated, but I was truly shocked when they announced I had received the award. I just feel so thankful to this community for embracing me and for embracing my ideas.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

My mom once told me the difference between the golden rule and the platinum rule. The golden rule is to do unto others and you would have them do unto you. The problem is if you like your coffee black but your friend likes it with cream, then doing unto them means that you bring them black coffee (which they won’t like). The platinum rule goes a step beyond to say to do unto others as they

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

My background is in accounting, finance, and business management, so I would probably be doing something with those qualifications in a nonprofit or community setting where I could continue to help people.

What was your major in college, and did it help your career?

My major was business management and a minor in accounting. Yes, it helps me a lot in my career. I’m able to set up a business-like structure to my realtor business that makes tax time much easier than working as a 1099 employee.

Who was the most impactful educator you had in high school or college?

I was very lucky to have three different teachers majorly impact my life. The first one is Mrs. Walters, my drama teacher. Another one is Mr. McMahan who was my choir teacher. And finally, Miss Cheney who developed my love for reading especially the classics like Edgar Allen Poe. What was the last book you read and why?

I am currently reading “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. I believe strongly that success

ALLISON SOUTHERN ULLOM Q&A, 20

Visit Plum Creek’s Kirkham Circle

Nicole Laird Owner, physical therapist and coach at Hays County Physical Therapy and Wellness

What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?

Growing up, I was always involved in different sports activities. I did gymnastics, cheerleading, and loved feeling strong and powerful. I knew I wanted to help people from an early age and started down the road of becoming a pediatrician. Once I got to college, I decided that I wanted to be able to spend more one-on-one time with my patients and help them return to their active lifestyles. I started looking into physical therapy school and it felt like the right fit.

After working in multiple settings over the past several years, I decided it was time for a shift. I wanted to help and empower women to be active, remain active, and improve their lives through physical therapy and wellness services. I decided to open

my own private physical therapy and wellness clinic that specializes in women’s health.

can get to the root cause and find solutions together.

My Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy definitely helped start me off on What would you have the right path as a physical done if you didn’t work at the therapist and gave me a love job you currently have? of learning that continues to I love what I do, however, if this day.

I wasn’t owning a business as a physical therapist, I would What makes you, you? be a full-time mom and wife.

My family makes me who I I love my family and dedicat- am. Without my family’s love ing time to their happiness and support, guidance, and and well-being would be my presence in my life, I would other dream job. not be the woman I am today.

My parents taught me the valWhat was your major in ue of hard work and dedicacollege and did it help you in tion and treating people well. your career?

My husband and son teach I have a Bachelor of Arts in me daily how to be a better Psychology with a minor in wife, mother, and caregiver.

Catholic Studies and received They teach me patience, to a Doctorate in Physical Ther- not take life too seriously and apy. I believe the psychology most of all how to love. My degree has helped me to bet- sisters have taught me how to ter understand and connect with my patients so that we NICOLE LAIRD Q&A, 20

Pelvic Health, Pregnancy and Postpartum Care Do you pee when you cough? Having painful intercourse? Are you having pelvic pain? Currently pregnant and experiencing pelvic floor issues or want to prepare for child birth? Are you trying to get back to your fitness routine after childbirth but not sure where to start?

We have some great resources.

Check out our website, come to a workshop, or set up a free consultation.

Nicole E. Laird

PT, DPT, CCWC, Pn1, ACSM CPT Owner, Physical Therapist, Coach

Now Specializing in Women’s Health • Prenatal and postpartum physical therapy • Pelvic pain and dysfunction • Fitness before, during, and after pregnancy

140 Kirkham Circle Kyle, TX 78640 512-730-9600

www.HaysCountyPT.com A product of Barton Publications | 17

Visit Plum Creek’s Kirkham Circle Paula Countryman Owner of Soul Yoga PC What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?​ I started practicing yoga several years ago as a runner.

Yoga was the best way to keep my body flexible and healthy so that I could continue running. I never imagined that I would teach yoga, let alone own a yoga studio. It all happened quite by accident and I’m so glad that it did!

“He/She needs yoga!”

That is my response to anyone who tells me about health problems, trauma, physical ailments, stress, grief, busyness, etc...either their own or of someone they know. Yoga isn't a magic pill that will "fix" all of your problems overnight. That pill doesn't exist. Yoga is a process of physical practice that unites the mind, body, and soul in self exploration, self help, and self healing. It clears our headspace to allow us to see what we need to be whole.

TYPES OF YOGA WE OFFER ARE:

GENTLE HATHA • HATHA SOUL FLOW • PILATES • YIN RESTORATIVE 140 Kirkham Circle • Kyle, Texas (979) 224-6346

SoulYogaAPC.com COMPANION MEMBERSHIP YOGA OFFERING

Soul Yoga in Kyle and

Willow Gardens Yoga in Buda $150 per month ($75 from each studio)

Unlimited Yoga at Both Studios Monthly Wine and Cheese Gatherings Free Workshops

Sign Up in Person at Soul Yoga or Willow Gardens

18 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?​ I have been a field social worker for over 20 years. I began working with foster children and did that for about 10 years. I started doing hospice 13 years ago and I still have my hand in that on a part-time/as needed basis.

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvement take place?​ I believe women are making strides every day in their own businesses as well as in careers working for others. I am thankful to the women who came before me and obliterated many of the roadblocks once in place. But we still have a long way to go. Women who are business owners or those who are in power positions are still fighting for respect and compensation comparable to that of their male counterparts.

Women in professional sports continue to be underrepresented in public forums and are grossly underpaid when compared to men in the same sport.

the practice of yoga and through the development of meaningful connections within a supportive community.

How does your studio differ from the Willow Gardens studio in Buda?

Soul Yoga is a smaller boutique style studio allowing a maximum of 16 people in each class. The space is quaint and has a homey and laid back atmosphere. Our studio temperature is never more than 78 degrees. While we offer many levels and styles of yoga led by extraordinary guides, there is also a palpable focus on building community connections.

We are located in the oldest house in Kyle so we have a kitchen and community room allowing us to offer social events and gatherings.

What does the future hold for your business?

I am working toward several group events and workshops to further my mission of community connections. The first is a Yoga Parent Co-op created to bring the parents of toddlers who are home during the day together at least once a month to develop relationships that will result in child care swapping so that What is the mission of your everyone can participate in a business? yoga practice in studio. Secondly, To continually create and pro- I would like to utilize my Master’s vide a welcoming and peaceful degree in Social Work and extenspace for individuals to grow sive hospice experience to bring and become more healthy in yoga and grief work together in a mind, body, and spirit through series of group offerings.

Visit Plum Creek’s Kirkham Circle Raelynn Haynes Owner of Willow Gardens Hot Yoga

Grow with us.

We believe that your health and well-being should be the first priority in creating a life full of abundance and vitality.

This is why we created a space where you feel good from the moment you walk in, to the moment you leave. We offer you a variety of styles of yoga, giving you options to find a class that is suitable for your needs and your practice.

TYPES OF YOGA WE OFFER ARE:

HATHA • ASHTANGA MYSORE ASHTANGA PRIMARY VINYASA • PILATES 302 S. Main Street • Buda, Texas (512) 523-8162

WillowGardensHotYoga.com COMPANION MEMBERSHIP YOGA OFFERING

Soul Yoga in Kyle and

Willow Gardens Yoga in Buda $150 per month ($75 from each studio)

Unlimited Yoga at Both Studios Monthly Wine and Cheese Gatherings Free Workshops

Sign Up in Person at Soul Yoga or Willow Gardens

What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?

After 12 years as a scientist and academic, I started to feel a calling to do something different with my life. It was a scary feeling, but I wanted to explore yoga with more focused attention. I also wanted to tap into my entrepreneurial spirit. Now, I am combining my love for science and nutrition, with my love for yoga, and providing a service to the community that I think people need and love. Yoga is not just exercise. It’s a way of life that makes everyone feel better both emotionally and physically. I never saw myself as anything other than an academic, but a series of timely events led me down this new adventure that I am excited to explore.

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

If I hadn’t bought a yoga studio and started a juice company with my partner Janine Kudelka (JUL, Juice U Love), I would likely be some type of data analyst, still teaching yoga part-time, and working on my book (which is currently on hold). My current work life is totally fresh and new. My world is very different than it was only one year ago. These are exciting times and I am loving the change, but I won’t say it isn’t scary! I also do yoga therapy with seniors and teens, work one on one with private clients, and still keep my ties to the university as an adjunct professor - all of which I love and will continue to do as a business owner.

What was your major in college and did it help you in

your career?

I majored in biology. I also have a Master’s and PhD in biology. My training is in conservation biology, ecology and animal behavior. Over the years, I transitioned into studying human behavior and nutrition. Once I started teaching nutrition at St. Edward’s University a few years ago, I fell in love. I felt that this is a topic of such importance in our time of so many health problems.

People want to be healthy, but it is difficult, and sometimes we just need a little help. I’ve been surprised at how transferable my skills as a scientist have been into the world of yoga, nutrition and business.

Who was the most impactful teacher or educator you had in high school or college?

Michael Rivage-Soul. He was my religion professor in college.

A former priest, he was the most deep-thinking, articulate, and thoughtful professor I have ever known. He challenged us in ways that were creative and made you want to learn and work hard - without really caring that you were working so hard. He was certainly one of my inspirations to my path to become a professor.

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

I usually have 3-4 books

RAELYNN HAYNES Q&A, 21 A product of Barton Publications | 19

ALLISON SOUTHERN ULLOM, FROM PAGE 16 leaves breadcrumbs and trails on how to attain success and how to best help people.

What makes you, you?

I think a lot of what makes me, me is my connection with God, my spirituality, and outlook on life. There are so many things that have taught me through the years to just love people. If you love people and seek out to do what’s best for people, it makes for a happier world.

a young professional entering today’s job market?

Keep learning. It is so important that you realize that your education doesn’t stop when you’re done with school. Keep finding books, teachers, and mentors that can keep teaching you new ways to accomplish things. The world itself is evolving technologically at a startling pace. So, keeping up with technology as well as other business techniques is important.

work your way up from the bottom. He truly made me do that. So, that created in me a very strong work ethic.

Who is your role model and why?

My parents were a part of the court case that went to the Supreme Court which allowed individuals with intellectual disabilities to live in group homes in public communities.

Effectively, this established that individuals with intellectual What is the first job you disabilities were not a separate What was your first car and ever had and how did it help class of people, and they could what do you remember about you in your career? not be discriminated against. it?

I grew up in a family business. Oftentimes there are so many My first car was a ‘78 OldsMy family had group homes misconceptions about these mobile Cutlass Supreme for individuals with intellectual individuals and their place in with red velour interior. This disabilities. At age 14, I startthe community. These people thing was a boat/tank, which ed working part-time at the are some of the sweetest folks I was probably pretty good. I homes giving grooming classes, know, but unfortunately, there is wouldn’t brag on my driving teaching the basics like washing a lot of stigmas associated with skills today, but back then they hands, cleaning up, basic pediintellectual disabilities. My parwere a complete mess. So being cure and manicure techniques ents were part of the Americans out there in a two-ton metal and general hygiene informaDisabilities Act that allowed that old-school tank made my partion. What an experience that change, which I think has been ents way more comfortable. was! My dad fully believes that a big change for the better. you are not just given opportuWhat advice would you give nities in life, but that you must What type of music do you

like?

This is a guilty pleasure. I absolutely love to listen to Taylor Swift at full blast in my car driving down the road! That and most songs from musicals like “Wicked.”

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvements take place?

I honestly think that there has been great advancement in the role of women in business. When my grandmothers went to college, most of the women (if they went to college) were encouraged to do what is equivalent to an associate degree in secretarial work. There have just been more and more women entering the work force.

At the same time, I think that more of the work that women do at home is being recognized. Being a stay-at-home parent is a huge job, but more people need to understand this. That fact is where improvements can take place – the attitudes toward women who don’t have the “traditional” career.

NICOLE LAIRD, FROM PAGE 17 grow and learn from others and how to be a role model.

United States with 5 children and started their lives over.

My grandfather was a physiWhat advice would you cian and he had to start from give a young professional en- scratch to rebuild his practering today’s job market? tice, but they made the move Ask questions and listen. to provide for their children Seek out a mentor and be and grandchildren. sure to thank everyone you My father’s parents raised meet who gives you any ad12 children on a farm which vice or knowledge. is such an amazing feat. They raised children who value What was the best advice family and hard work and this you’ve ever received in your has carried on for generalife? tions.

I have had many people advise me to find a mentor Where do you feel women and seek out information. in business are today? Where Reading books about arcan improvement take eas that I need growth and place? seeking out mentors to guide I think women in business me has been instrumental in are starting to move to the helping me grow as a busiforefront, but we have a long ness owner and person. way to go. While women are building, growing, nurturing Who is your role model in businesses, men continue to life and why? dominate the field of busiMy grandparents on both ness. We, as women, can sides of my family. My moth- support each other, empower er’s parents left everything in each other and help each Cuba and came over to the other’s business grow.

20 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

Hours of work Of all women who worked at some point during calendar year 2016, 62 percent worked full time and year round, compared with 41 percent in 1970. The proportion of men who worked full time and year round also rose

over the period, from 66 percent in 1970 to 75 percent in 2016. Data were collected in the 1971 and 2017 Annual Social and Economic Supplements to the CPS and reflect earnings and work experience in the previous calendar year.

Source: Women in the Labor Force: A Databook, a December 2018 report by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

RAELYNN HAYNES, FROM PAGE 19 open at any given point. I read fiction, nutrition, biology and yoga books constantly. Right now, I am reading “How to Disease Proof Your Child”, a new book on Bikrim Yoga that I haven’t read before, A book about life balance (as a business owner, I am working hard to manage my life-family balance), and “The Girl in the Spider’s Web”.

other leadership roles such as higher political offices and CEOs. Women are also still paid less, and treated differently in the workplace. These are all facts based on data, and not my own conjecture. So, society as a whole has to change this culture and the way we view women in the workplace. It has to come from the grassroots.

This will take time, but everyone has the responsibility What advice would you give to make all aspects of life equal a young professional entering for every person, regardless of today’s job market? gender, color, or socioeconomic Follow your dreams, work status. People of color, of hard, but take care of yourself lower socioeconomic status, in the meantime. Be happy and women and those in the LGBT healthy, and don’t just chase the community all have to work career that you think will make harder to be successful. This is you a lot of money, or that your inequality in our society and parents think you should take. should not be the case.

Be your own leader through a journey that is calling you, and What is the mission of your be true to yourself. business?

The mission of Willow What was the first job you Gardens is to provide a genuine ever had and how did it help space of peace and solace you career-wise? to the community. Science My first job was as a lifeguard is showing that yoga and and swim teacher when I was meditation have so many 16, which I did it for years after health benefits, including and loved. I remember when I physical, mental, and bought my first bike that I paid emotional. Most people that for myself - my first real purhave explored yoga fall in love chase with my own money. It because they see immediate was life-changing. It was purple benefits and improvements and that bike lasted all through in their body, their moods, college. I was born a teacher their energy levels, and their and have been teaching in one overall happiness. I want to form or another ever since. provide a space where folks can feel comfortable to come and Who is your role model in explore their own journey - and life and why? have affordable options for I have too many! services that they may need, such as yoga, meditation, What type of music do you pilates, yoga therapy, nutrition like? consultations, and workshops.

All kinds! But, I am partial to folk, classic country, and blueHow does your studio differ grass. I grew up in Kentucky from the Soul Yoga in Kyle? where as a kid I was exposed to Willow Gardens is a larger amazing traditional bluegrass and more open space with music, which I still love. I am a a big studio room so we can big music person. Always have house more people in our been, as long as it isn’t heavy classes. Willow has more metal or new country. specialized classes, such as Bikrim yoga and Ashtanga, Where do you feel women in and we offer several pilates business are today? Where can classes throughout the week. improvement take place?

Willow is a warm studio. Our We are starting to make minimum temperature is 84. progress, but still not We keep our studio warm for enough. Women are still all classes, and hot (100) for underrepresented in science, the Bikrim classes. Several in the business world, and people are now practicing at many other fields, including both places because they love

Hot Yoga but they also love the smaller, more intimate classes at Soul. This is what we want.

We are not competitors, we are companion studios. This is why we launched our “Companion Membership” Package. We want to make it affordable for folks to practice at both places.

Paula and I both feel that this is really how the world of yoga should be – collaborative and full of love and kindness.

Mysore style classes. We have a drummer on staff where we have live music in many of our classes, and we have regular yoga workshops on the weekends. With a full schedule of classes and amazing teachers, the studio is open throughout the day and has something for every person and every body. We are starting to plan for more retreats (including international ones) and yoga teacher trainings, What does the future hold all to come within the next for your business? year. We are also working with Positive growth and Soul Yoga to build the yoga exploration. We have doubled community in both Kyle and the number of yoga classes in Buda. We have done so through the schedule, brought in several shared teachers, collaborative new amazing teachers, and kids series, a collaborative many new classes. Currently, yoga and hiking outing to we are launching Pilates at our Enchanted Rock, “A Whole Lot studio. We anticipate 15 Pilates of Pilates Festival” and other classes by the end of summer events. And we are also offering to launch our fall schedule. our Companion Membership Right now we offer 10 Pilates Package so that folks know (or Pilates inspired) classes that they are welcome and each week. We also are building encouraged to practice at both our Ashtanga community at places to get everything they Willow by offering the full need and want from their yoga Ashtanga Primary Series and journey.

Earning trends for women In 2017, women who worked full time in wage and salary jobs had median usual weekly earnings of $770, which represented 82 percent of men’s median weekly earnings ($941).

Women’s earnings vary by educational attainment. In 2017, female full-time wage and salary workers age 25 and older with less than a high school diploma had median usual weekly earnings of $447. Women who had only a high school diploma had earnings of $610, those with an associate’s degree had

earnings of $727, and those with a bachelor’s degree and higher had earnings of $1,131.

Median usual weekly earnings of full-time wage and salary workers were the highest in 2017 for female chief executives ($1,920), pharmacists ($1,834), and nurse practitioners ($1,832).

Earnings for men were highest for chief executives ($2,415); physicians and surgeons ($2,277); pharmacists ($2,228); and architectural and engineering managers ($2,020).

Source: Women in the Labor Force: A Databook, a December 2018 report by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A product of Barton Publications | 21

Barton Publications, Inc.

Producers of the Hays Free Press and the News-Dispatch Barton Publications is a primarily woman-owned business that prints two weekly newspapers and the quarterly Hays County Echo magazine for Hays County. All three publications are managed by publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton.

22 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

work, from customer service and legal to creative marketing and outreach. The apartment industry allows me to create a fantastic living environment for my residents that is like no other. I take pride and ownership in the creation of that experience without all the personal risk.

Joddeé Lauffer Property Manager at The Green at Plum Creek What spurred you into the career path you’ve chosen?

I always thought I would be an entrepreneur. I liked the idea of taking ownership of what I did and being my own boss. I made a friend in college who was an assistant property manager and he recommended I try it. I instantly loved the daily challenges and variety of

What would you have done if you didn’t work at the job you currently have?

I would be a hair stylist or salon owner. Before I became a property manager, I earned my cosmetology license and have kept it current. I love artist expression and crafting something that makes others feel good about themselves.

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor and why?

Blue Bell Tin Roof all the way! It’s salty, sweet, and amazing. The great ice cream drought of 2015 was pretty excruciating.

What’s your favorite brand of soft drink and why?

I don’t drink sodas often but nothing goes better with a

Whataburger than an ice cold Coca Cola.

definitely cried when my tube ran out in second grade.

What was your major in college and did it help you in your career?

I majored in Mass Communications and Marketing. It was interesting to see how advertising affects so many aspects of our lives and influences our decision making in ways most people have no idea about. Applying this knowledge has been extremely beneficial in my job.

What was your first car and what do you remember about it?

My first car was a 1983 white Chevrolet S-10 with red interior. I loved that little truck.

I upgraded the cassette player to a removable CD player. I learned how to replace a water pump, fuses, tires and a very valuable lesson about not crossing jumper cable.

What was the last book you read and why did you choose it?

I love the classics, “Green Eggs and Ham,” by Dr. Seuss, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,”

by Eric Carle and “Llama Llama Zippity Zoom” by the late and great Anne Dewdney. I have three beautiful and spirited kids under the age of five. Any time I sit down to read I fall asleep. I love to read but this season in life doesn’t allow much time for it.

What advice would you give a young professional entering today’s job market?

Know your strengths and don’t waste your time doing anything you don’t love.

Who was your first crush?

I was obsessed with Cherry Lip Balm by Lip Smackers. I

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

Do what is right, not what is easy.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure TV show and why?

Say Yes to the dress! It’s the same episode over and over

JODEÉ LAUFFER Q&A, 24

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www.TheGreenAtPlumCreek.com A product of Barton Publications | 23

for the title of Certified Autism Specialist which I currently hold. I continue to be the only Certified Autism Specialist in Buda, Kyle, San Marcos, Wimberley, Lockhart, and south Austin areas.

JODEÉ LAUFFER, FROM PAGE 23 again, but it’s so satisfying when they choose “The One”.

The apartment industry is powered by women! I am honored to work with marWhat was the first job you velously talented and drivever had and how did it help en women every day. I am you career-wise? nothing without Michelle, My first true paying job Lara, Monica, Stacee, Stephwas setting pins at Freiheit anie and Julianne beside me.

Bowling Club. I learned to Each of them brings their keep your head down and be own energy to our daily work efficient. Those pins can fly that adds value to the overall pretty hard and fast. experience our residents have during their stay with us. I Who is your role model in can only say endlessly, thank life and why? you for being a huge part of My mom. She is smart, creating The Green at Plum hardworking, and trustworthy. Creek experience that is like She taught me to never give no other. up and to see the good in peoOverall, I see women breakple. Everyone has a struggle ing glass ceilings every day. It’s they are going through. Be been so empowering to see kind to each other. these women open doors that my mom and grandmothers What type of music do you would never have had the like? opportunity to touch not too I love alternative rock. long ago. I can only imagine Anything with a fun beat to what my two daughters will dance to. one day accomplish because of these women. My husband Where do you feel women and I are raising a son who in business are today? Where sees women as equals in the can improvement take place? work force and beyond.

Women veterans There were 1.2 million female veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces in the labor force in 2017. Women accounted for about 12 percent of the 10.1 million

veterans in the labor force. The unemployment rate for female veterans, at 4.1 percent in 2017, was similar to that of male veterans, at 3.6 percent.

Source: Women in the Labor Force: A Databook, a December 2018 report by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

24 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

Who was the most impactful teacher or educator you had in high school or college?

I have been very fortunate to have so many amazing educators and mentors through the years. As I reflect a few stand out in my mind as individuals who made a tremendous impact on my life and my passion for speech-language pathology; Ms. Robin Lind Autism Specialist at (my ASL teacher in high school), Martha Wristen (an Therapy Center of Buda exceptional SLP that took What spurred you into the a chance and allowed me to volunteer at her clinic, career path you’ve chosen?

When I was in high school I observe her treatment watched Children of a Lesser sessions, and the person who solidified my desire to be a God in my American Sign pediatric SLP), Dr. Barbara Language class and I fell in Davis (one of my professors love with the profession of at UT-Austin who taught me speech-language pathology. so much about pediatric SLP Over the subsequent years and myself ), Dr. Ron Gillam my love for it grew. I feel (my undergraduate mentor honored to help others find and professor who ignited their voice (verbal or nonmy passion for narrative verbal) and to be a part of and pragmatic language). I their team to live their best will forever remember them life. I am inspired every day with the utmost respect and by the families I serve. gratitude.

What would you have What was the last book done if you didn’t work at you read and why did you the job you currently have?

I am sure I would still be in choose it?

I most recently read a medical profession; helping “Uniquely Human: a others is my calling. different way of seeing Autism” by Barry M. Prizant, What was your major in college and did it help you in PhD and “Neurotribes: the legacy of Autism and the your career? future of Neurodiversity” I received my Bachelor

by Steve Silberman. I of Science degree in absolutely love Dr. Prizant Communication Sciences and his method of SCERTS and Disorders from the and jumped at the chance University of Texas at Austin to read his newest book on in 2003 and my Master of Autism. The latter of my two Science degree in Speechrecent reads was actually Language Pathology (SLP) recommended by a parent from the University of Texas at El Paso in 2005. My degrees that I serve and I am so glad they recommended are not only relevant to my it to me. The concept of field of practice, but they Neurodiveristy is a concept were prerequisites for my that I (and subsequently state license to practice as a speech-language pathologist, my clinic; Therapy Center of Buda) wholeheartedly to obtain my certificate of clinical competence from the believe in and support.

American Speech-Language AMY GRANT Q&A, 25 Hearing Association, and

Amy Grant

AMY GRANT, FROM PAGE 24 What makes you, you?

My successes, my failures, my past, and my future goals all mold who I am today. My hunger for knowledge and my desire to help others makes me who I am at my core.

Deborah Garza (who happens to also be a co-owner of Therapy Center of Buda), always told me as a child “if you think you can, you can. If you think you can’t, you can’t.” It’s so very true and I still believe it.

What advice would you give a young professional entering today’s job market?

Do what you love. Don’t choose a profession based on yearly earnings, prestige, or other’s desires. You don’t have to dread going to work, you can love it!

Where do you feel women in business are today? Where can improvement take place?

Women have come a long way in business, but there is more that can be done to balance the scale. Having more women in leadership positions is one place where improvements can be made. As women, we must break through the barriers and biases that are still present today.

What was the best advice you’ve ever received in your life?

My mother,

Keep up with all the latest news in Hays County by subscribing to the

Hays Free Press or the

News-Dispatch For only $42 a year Call 512-268-7862 to subscribe.

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We use a variety of trusted methodologies to ensure your child’s therapy is made for them to give them the best chance to develop essential life skills for their future.

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1750 FM 967, Suite A, Buda, Texas 78610 512-295-2273 | www.TherapyCenterOfBuda.com A product of Barton Publications | 25

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP | PROGRESS

2018: Year of the Woman I

n American politics, 2018 was a peak year for women, with more women running for office and participating in the political process than ever before in the country’s history.

According to a report from the Brookings Institution, 255 women ran for office in one of the two major parties, with Democratic women winning almost half of the positions they ran for at the federal level. Women also continued to vote in higher numbers than men.

According to Roll Call, women make up almost a quarter of the U.S. Congress, the highest it’s ever been, though still far

below the makeup of the American population.

There are 102 women representatives and 25 senators. Arizona became the sixth state to have two women senators. Nancy Pelosi returned as speaker of the House, becoming only the second speaker to hold the gavel twice.

Nevada is the first state in the nation’s history to have women make up a majority of its state legislature and nine states

26 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

have women governors, which ties the record.

What does this representation in politics mean? The Brookings Institution says more women in lawmaking positions likely means more legislation that affects women and families. It could also mean more coalition-building and reaching across the aisle.

Making politics a little more personal, Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth became the first senator to give birth while in office and got the laws changed so she could bring her baby on the floor of the Senate, allowing her to participate and breastfeed. In New Zealand, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern became the

first elected leader to take maternity leave while in office.

Around the world, women also took charge.

According to Vox, Spain’s new cabinet is almost two-thirds women, having the highest female cabinet representation in Europe.

Canadian physicist Donna Strickland received the Nobel Prize in Physics, becoming the first woman to win the award in more than a century and only the third in its history. Vox also listed the Nobel Peace Prize, which was shared

by Nadia Murad, an Iraqi woman captured by ISIS who now is an activist and advocate for victims of sex trafficking, and Congolese surgeon Denis Mukwege, who treats rape victims.

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP | POLITICS

Getting Women Elected T

he election of 2018 ushered an unprecedented number of women into elected positions.

Many of these women on both sides of the aisle were supported by organizations that have popped up in the last few years to encourage first-time candidates and especially women to run for office, offering mentorship, organizational support, information and financial help. Women who have thought about running, from the local school board all the way to a federal position, should check them out.

VoteRunLead

VOTERUNLEAD.ORG VoteRunLead’s goal is to train 30,000 women to run for office between now

it that wants to connect and promote women who want to take the lead in promoting limited government, fiscal responsibility, free markets and national defense, elevating those women to positions in government and other sectors.

The local chapters offer networking events, education and mentoring to help women get the tools needed to become politically engaged and active.

and 2020. The nonprofit works with women who are considering a run for office to answer questions, including factors to consider while thinking about a run for office and how to get a campaign off the ground.

Training resources, campaign resources, political experts, social media and Higher Heights other tools are available for HIGHERHEIGHTS women who want to run.

FORAMERICA.ORG Since it started, 70 percent Higher Heights is foof first-time candidates who sought help from VoteRun- cused on providing support for black women who are Lead won their races. running for office or otherwise engaging in politics, RightNOW including registering womRIGHTNOWNETWORKS.ORG en to vote and getting them RightNOW is a nonprof- to the polls and participate

in politics. They began a #BlackWomenVote campaign and provide online training, research, communications work and digital campaign resources.

Emerge America

EMERGEAMERICA.ORG Emerge America recruits, trains and provides a network for support for Democratic women who want to run for office. The nonprofit offers a six-month, 70-hour program through a nationwide network.

Twenty-five states have local affiliates; there also are regional boot camps and support for alumnae of the program. The group has trained more than 4,000 women since 2002, with 500 alums in elected office and 700 supported candidates on the ballot last year.

A product of Barton Publications | 27

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP | STATISTICS

By the Numbers

S

ystemic inequality for decades has led to a shortage of women in leadership positions. According to the Center for American Progress, women are wellrepresented in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs, including law and medical school, and make up about half of the workforce. Yet they are not equitably represented in upper echelons of business, education or politics.

In the S&P 500, 25 percent of executive and senior-level managers, 20 percent of board members and 6 percent of CEOs are women. In financial services companies in the same index, 29 percent of executives and 2 percent of CEOs are women.

In law firms, 22 percent of partners and 18 percent of equity partners are women, despite making up 45 percent of associates.

More than a third of doctors are women, but only 16 percent of medical school deans are women.

Less than a third of full professors and about a

quarter of college presidents are women.

In high-tech industries, 20 percent of executives and senior managers were women. In 2016, almost half of the 150 highest-earning public companies in Silicon Valley didn’t have any women in their executive offices.

Overcoming these hurdles is even harder for women of color, who made up less than 4 percent of executive and less than half a percent of women CEOs in 2015.

But the benefits are worth it. A 2017 report on gender equality showed

28 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

diversity in a corporation is directly correlated with a better bottom line. According to The Balance Careers, a recent study showed Fortune 500 companies with at least three women on the executive team outperform companies with fewer women – 53 percent greater returns on equities, 42 percent greater return on sales and 66 percent more return invested capital.

Despite those astounding numbers, however, women make up only 6 percent of chief executives at the top 100 tech companies.

The Center for American Progress reported that

when movie studios have more women as directors, producers or editors, the representation of women is better; studies show more women have speaking roles when women write and direct.

Morgan Stanley found companies with high gender diversity deliver better returns with less volatility.

Over six years, companies with greater gender diversity reported better returns on equity, greater productivity and innovation, better products, better decision-making and improved employee retention and satisfaction.

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP | THE PATH TO EQUALITY

N

Getting Women Into Leadership

umerous studies have shown that women make up about half of the workforce, including in professional roles. However, that women aren’t promoted at the same rates, meaning only a fraction to upper-level management and executive officers are women.

Balance Careers talked to Global Chief Executive Officer Susan Lucas-Conwell of Great Place to talk about how she had reached that point and what managers can do to ensure women are getting a chance at higher-up positions.

WORKPLACE CHALLENGES Both women and men struggle to balance work life with home life, parenting in an increasingly busy world and keeping up with changes in the workplace, though statistically women still take on the bigger parenting role, even when both partners work full time, and women are more

likely to prioritize work-life balance than men. Women also still face a wage gap, earning on average 73 cents for every dollar a man makes, and they are more likely to face sexual harassment at work.

There also are fewer female mentors and advocates, simply because fewer women are at the top.

WHAT WOMEN SHOULD DO The first thing Lucas-Conwell tells women in leadership is to be who they are as leaders. Some women feel pressured to lead as men, even if that is not their innate leadership style. Don’t, she says.

Women leaders should

highlight their leadership styles, be it creative and collaborative or direct.

This allows other women to see their traits reflected in their leaders and imagine a path to the top.

Women at all levels should hone their skills, take opportunities for professional development and make their voices heard.

Women in leadership and organizations should ensure women are able to speak up and that they’re listened to and respected.

WHAT COMPANIES SHOULD DO Companies who seek gender equity in leader-

ship and boards of directors pay significant attention, and put significant resources toward hiring, retaining and developing women leaders.

This means using a toolbox as diverse as a good benefits package that includes things like maternity leave, onsite or subsidized child care and good health care to professional development opportunities like mentoring and networking programs.

These companies have been proactive in implementing policies to ensure equal rights of women in the workplace and to correct past imbalances.

A product of Barton Publications | 29

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP | CAREERS

S

Women and STEM

TEM fields face an even greater gap between women and men than many other industries, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t role models for girls and women looking to break in or move up in Silicon Valley tech companies or academic research or taking on the world’s problems.

MICROBIOLOGIST BARKISSA FOFANA Thirty-year-old Barkissa Fofana works for the Institute for Environmental and Agricultural Research in Burkina Faso, and Mashable reports that she’s looking for ways to use microorganisms to combat climate change and help restore damaged lands in the northern Sahel region of Africa; one project includes researching how acacia trees respond to bacteria and fungi, which can indicate how the trees overcome drought.

NASA MATHEMATICIAN KATHERINE JOHNSON At 100 years old, Katherine Johnson may not still be actively working in STEM, but her contributions are wellknown. Using trajectory analysis, she was a pivotal part of the team that sent astronaut Alan Shepard to space in 1961, with her journey commemorated in the book and movie “Hidden Figures.” For International Day of Women and Girls in Science, UN Women shared Johnson’s thoughts on her experiences and success: “I ask questions: I wanted to know why.

They got used to me asking questions and being the only woman there.”

She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.

GOLDIEBLOX FOUNDER DEBBIE STERLING Engineer Debbie Sterling has made a name for herself as the founder of a toy company that aims to get girls away from princesses and dolls with her interactive book series and construction sets. Their commercials showcase a girl who invents machines to solve everyday problems.

Sterling told DreamBox she got the idea when she was studying engi30 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019

neering at Stanford and was one of just a few women in her program.

NOBEL PRIZE-WINNING SCIENTIST DONNA STRICKLAND According to The Guardian, Donna Strickland was one of the foremost laser physicist in the world well before she won the Nobel Prize in Physics

in 2018. The research for which she won the prize — creating ultrashort high-intensity laser pulses that didn’t destroy the amplifying material — she did in 1985 as a doctoral student at the University of Rochester. She is the third woman to win this prize, joining the company of Marie Curie (1903) and Maria Goeppert-Mayer (1963).

Lee Warbinton I have been in the mortgage industry for over 20 years, and spent 15 years in finance prior to that. This has equipped me with a unique skillset that I use to help my clients achieve the dream of home ownership, particularly when it comes to credit situations.

I have developed expertise in finding solutions for those who didn’t think home ownership was a possibility. I am passionate about maintaining open communication with my clients, keeping honesty and integrity at the forefront.

No two loan transactions are the same. I recognize this and enjoy the challenge. Whether an individual is moving across the country for a new job or an elderly couple is downsizing after years in their home, I find it just as rewarding to see my clients receive a set of keys to their new home knowing I had a hand in the process.

I moved to the Austin area in 2010 after spending 25 years in Chicago. As an avid golfer, I enjoy the Texas weather that allows me to golf year round.

I have one son who attends Wabash College and a wonderful partner who assists me in my business and teaches Yoga in Kyle.

A product of Barton Publications | 31

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32 | Women in Leadership | SUMMER 2019