BTL CELLUTONE™ achieves the best results in non-invasive cellulite reduction and improvement of patient’s skin textures.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Using the power of targeted vibrations, BTL CELLUTONE™ contributes to the elimination of the main factors causing cellulite formation and lead to a considerable improvement in the skin appearance. Mechanical vibrations enhance microcirculation and oxygen supply in affected area resulting in increased blood supply and removal of excess interstitial fluid.
As unique as the babies born here
Any parent will tell you that every pregnancy is different and each baby is unique. At SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital - Madison, we provide personal support throughout the journey. We offer classes, connections and the specialists you’ll need along the way. Visit stmarysmadison.com/birthsuites to take a virtual tour and start your personal birth plan.
St. Mary’s Family Birth Suites
“Working with Laura was fantastic! From our very first meeting with her in our home, we were very impressed by her professionalism, warmth, and design knowledge. Our family is absolutely thrilled with the furniture and decorative pieces she chose for us.”
www.steinhafels.com/decorating-solutions
Jake and Sarah V. from Appleton, WI
CONNECT
Engage | 13
The latest news, hot events, discussions and special BRAVA promotions you can’t live without.
Perspective | 20
Megan Watt’s wisdom on creating your own professional dream team.
THRIVE
Office Mates | 23
Bright, fun and functional décor and tools for your office.
Wellbeing | 24
How mentorship can help you learn, grow and cultivate workplace talent.
Dwell | 26
An urban garden’s amazing forest of flowers.
GO+DO
Rural Indulgence | 47 Campo di Bella’s savory charms
Savor | 48
Take in the view and a home-cooked meal at Campo di Bella.
Spotlight | 50
August’s don’t-miss arts and entertainment events
Catalyst | 57
The Madison Development Corp.’s work to help entrepreneurs.
Happenings | 59
See who you know in photos from the BRAVA Night Out at the Edgewater plaza and the Susan G. Komen Football 101 fundraiser.
IN EVERY ISSUE
Relate | 10
Contributors | 12
Linger | 60
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS
Women in Business | 15
Sponsored Content: Cosmetic Procedures for Making Lasting Impressions | 28
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEE ACKER lee@bravaenterprises.com
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT JENNIFER ROSEN-HEINZ jennifer@bravaenterprises.com
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT JODY WISZ jody@ntmediagroup.com
BRAVA Magazine is a publication of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Gary E. Nei, Chairman; William Turner, President; Barbara Krause, Publisher. 951 Kimball Lane, Suite 104. Verona, WI, (608) 848-6700.
SUBSCRIBE AT BRAVAMAGAZINE.COM
Subscription Information: (877) 811-2639 or brava@pubdmgroup.com.
BRAVA (ISSN 1934-4317) August 2017, Volume 18, Number 8, Periodicals postage paid at 3902 Milwaukee St., Madison WI 53714 and additional offices. Subscriptions are $14/year. Postmaster send address changes to BRAVA Magazine, P.O. Box 343, Oregon, IL 610610343. This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written
Photo credit: Greg Anderson
OF JOBS AND DREAMS
THIS MONTH IS OUR ANNUAL Women in Business issue, where we feature people, places and ideas that make Madison tick.
For starters, we wanted to know: What makes a place a great place for women to work? Our feature, on P. 33, asks local experts what forward-thinking companies are considering for their talent management. Today it’s not about getting the gold watch after toiling at one place for years. Women want diverse workplaces that holistically embrace them—opportunities to grow, a workplace that recognizes we have many roles beyond daytime worker bee and consideration and promotion of our overall wellbeing. BRAVA readers have weighed in, too, about what’s most important to them—and some even tell us they’re working for their dream employer already.
Our “Working the Dream” feature on P. 39 by Sagashus Levingston and Amy Gannon explores some of the barriers women of color face to achieving their entrepreneurial dreams. Often, it’s the status quo process that frustratingly interrupts their progress. Levingston and Gannon—entrepreneurs themselves—ask probing questions about how society regards these entrepreneurs and whose businesses get the necessary attention, help and funding to go from dream to reality.
ON THE COVER
Meet Jelissa Edwards, entrepreneur, author and mom of two. Read about her story of trying to get her footing to live her business dreams in “Working the Dream,” P. 39.
We also help get you started in this issue. Megan Watt—entrepreneur, motivational speaker, career coach, dynamo—will tell you that behind every great woman there’s a “dream team,” a vitally important support system to help you get out of the blocks and stay the course, whether you’re launching a business or retooling your life. Read her success story in PERSPECTIVE, P. 20, then get ready for more inspiration. Watt tells us just how we can—and why we should—build the right dream team at BRAVA’s THRIVE Luncheon Aug. 31.
Next month we bring you more ideas about ’preneurship you can apply to your career. Megan Boswell and Corinne Neil, the founders of THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES, a platform the duo launched to help women working solo connect their skills with each other and business in need, talk about adding spark to the workplace with intrapreneurship. It’s a hot topic about amping up entrepreneurial thinking within your own organization, innovating and pushing boundaries in our roles.
Don’t miss either of the events—they could be the start of very good things.
Kate Bast Editor-in-Chief
DON’T MISS!
Ready to cultivate your dream?
The Aug. 31 BRAVA THRIVE Luncheon tells you why and how you need a dream team. Details: BRAVAmagazine.com
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16
5–8:30pm
Join Brava Magazine for a night out at Hilldale!
Enjoy a night of exclusive shopping, music, samples, and more.
kate spade new york • Michael Kors
Madewell • Anthropologie
lululemon • Sur La Table
Lush • Twigs • Mes Amies
CONTRIBUTORS
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS
WRITERS | Elle Duncombe-Mills, Sara Finger, Meg Rothstein, Amy Pflugshaupt
PHOTOGRAPHERS | Kaia Calhoun, April Zelenka
DESIGNERS | April Zelenka
SAGASHUS LEVINGSTON | “WORKING THE DREAM’” P. 39
Sagashus is a doctoral candidate in English at UW-Madison and her coffee table book “Infamous Mothers” and same-named business are inspired by her dissertation. She also is a proud buttonwearing member of the Doyenne Group, Inc., and sits on the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp.’s South Central Ambassadorial Advisory Committee. She is a 2017 BRAVA Woman to Watch and a UW-Madison Outstanding Woman of Color. She’s the proud mother of three boys and three girls and partner of Tosumba. Sagashus and her family live in Madison.
AMY GANNON | “WORKING THE DREAM,” P. 39
Amy is a co-founder and Director of Entrepreneur Development at Doyenne Group, a Madisonbased organization advancing women’s entrepreneurship in Madison and beyond by transforming ecosystems to be more inclusive. With more than 10 years of experience working with startup businesses, Amy has expertise moving entrepreneurs through the idea validation, launch and growth stages.
SHELBY DEERING | “GREAT PLACES TO WORK FOR WOMEN,” P. 33
Shelby is a Verona-based lifestyle writer and the owner of writing biz Shelby Deering, LLC. She loves to create highly descriptive, authentic, soulful pieces for national publications like Midwest Living, Flea Market Decor and Vintage Celebrations, and for regional magazines such as Wisconsin People & Ideas and Experience Wisconsin. With a focus on profiles, home decor, shopping and travel, Shelby enjoys experiencing all that Madison has to offer, with her husband and corgi Ginger, at her side.
HILLARY SCHAVE | PHOTOS THROUGHOUT
Hillary is the creative force behind the local business Azena Photography. Her vast experience in documentary and editorial style wedding photography has helped to create some truly genuine and beautiful portraits of the local women featured here in BRAVA Magazine. She is “mama” and wife to two amazing fellas and loves that it only takes 20 minutes to get almost anywhere in Madison.
SHANNA WOLF | PHOTOS THROUGHOUT
Shanna is a freelance photographer with a background in advertising and communications, specializing in portrait, documentary and interior photography. Her photography aesthetic is modern with simplicity and balance. She loves the storytelling of still photography and being a contributor to publications with meaningful messages. Her personal work is focused on travel and wandering, using her camera as her sketchbook.
CONNECT
HIGH NOTES | Stretch out on a grassy knoll on the Capitol green and listen to an array of free musical performances this month. The Lunchtime Live series continues every Tuesday, featuring a local band for one hour starting at noon. And don’t miss the climactic finale to Concerts on the Square Aug. 2 or the 25-piece Neophonic Jazz Orchestra’s lively instrumentals during Jazz at Five on Aug. 30. Capitol Square, Madison. visitdowntownmadison.com.
CONGRATULATIONS!
BRAVA 2017 Woman to Watch Syovata Edari , criminal defense attorney turned artisan chocolatier, experienced the sweet taste of success when a federal judge filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit Mars Candy Co. conglomerate brought against her, alleging infringement for her company’s name, CocoVaa Chocolatier, as being too similar to its line of dietary supplements, CocoaVia.
Edari makes small batch, artisan chocolates. Her chocolates were recognized by the International Chocolate Salon with a variety of 2017 awards. CocoVaa’s Black Sesame and Colombian white chocolate won a gold in Best Ingredients Combinations and a silver as Most Unique. The Alegria espresso-infused dark chocolate received a silver Most Unique award.
Edari’s Chocolatier Rose, dark chocolate infused with rose otto, won a gold in the Best Taste category, silver in Best Ingredients Combinations and bronze for Most Unique, Best Texture and Best Chocolate Bar categories. Overall her chocolates received a 4-star rating.
How’s all that for being a Woman to Watch and making great things happen in 2017?
Learn more about Edari’s chocolates at cocovaa.com
Sagashus Levingston , 2017 BRAVA W2W and founder and CEO of Infamous Mothers, was recognized nationally in Essence Magazine, for her book “Infamous Mothers,” about women who have mothered from the fringes—and succeeded. Learn more about Levingston’s efforts at infamousmothers.com. Read her BRAVA feature story on the barriers to entrepreneurship that many women face on P. 39.
The photo used in the “Urban Nature: Get Into the Wild Within City Limits” (July 2017, P. 39) was supplied by the Madison Parks; the lovely image of Turville Point Conservation Park was captured by Public Information Officer Ann Shea. The park, which features 3 miles of trails through a canopy of oaks, is adjacent to Olin Park on the shores of Lake Mendota.
OUT + ABOUT
BRAVA-SPONSORED EVENTS
Aug. 16 | BRAVA NIGHT OUT AT HILLDA LE SHOPPING CENTER
Enjoy a ladies night out with exclusive shopping, music, samples—and more! 5-8:30 p.m. Hilldale Shopping Center, Madison. RSVP and more details: hilldale.com
BRAVA EVENTS
Aug. 31 | BRAVA THRIVE LUNCHEON WHY YOU NEED A DREAM TEAM— AND HOW TO BUILD ONE WITH MEGAN WATT
Successful people accomplish greatness because they surround themselves with a dream team of supporters and motivators who help them reach their goals. A dynamic speaker, facilitator and career coach, Megan Watt clues us in to the six key dream team members you need to have and how to build and leverage your team to help you succeed. Register: 11 a.m. Lunch: 11:45 a.m. Sheraton Madison Hotel, Madison. Tickets: BRAVAmagazine.com
Sept. 27 | BRAVA THRIVE CAREER WORKSHOP INTRAPRENEURSHIP: POWER ENTREPRENEURIAL THINKING WITH THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES
Intrapreneurship is entrepreneurial thinking leveraged among staff and colleagues—it’s a trending mindset with big results, like creativity, problem solving, efficiency, effectiveness and success. Join THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES Co-founders Megan Boswell and Corinne Neil for this collaborative discussion, with hands-on activities, guided instruction and a path to implementing these strategies in easy and practical ways. 8 a.m -11:45 a.m. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Madison. Tickets: BRAVAmagazine.com
Oct. 19 | BRAVA THRIVE LUNCHEON THE POWER OF RESILIENCE WITH GAIL FORD
When life gives you lemons, how quickly do you turn them into lemonade? Hard times aren’t meant to derail us from our destiny, but rather to propel us toward it. In this power hour, motivational speaker Gail Ford shares her unconventional path through turbulent times, and reveals simple steps to help you move forward resiliently and actualize your dreams. Register: 11 a.m. Lunch: 11:45 a.m. Sheraton Madison Hotel, Madison. Tickets: BRAVAmagazine.com
Nov. 8 | BRAVA THRIVE CAREER WORKSHOP BECOMING THOUGHTFULLY FIT: LEADING WITHIN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH DARCY LUOMA
Do you want more meaningful relationships, better connections, and less conflict in your personal and professional life? In this workshop life coach Darcy Luoma teaches us the skills we need to lead relationships in a Thoughtfully Fit manner—being mindful of reactions to, and with, others. You’ll identify your “unfit” habits and patterns, and work to create new habits with the understanding that you can control both your actions and reactions to every situation. 8 a.m -11:45 a.m. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Madison. Tickets: BRAVAmagazine.com.
BRAVA CULPA
SAVE THE DATE
PHOTOGRAPHED
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
CONFIDENT SMILES FROM CARING PROFESSIONALS
At Dental Health Associates of Madison (DHA) it is our mission to provide the highest quality compassionate care. DHA is a patient-centered, full-service dental group with dozens of doctors throughout Madison. In addition to general and family dentistry, we also have experts in orthodontics, periodontics, implant services, endodontics and cosmetic dentistry. Going to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite pastime, but we strive to make each patient feel comfortable in a stress-and-judgement-free environment. Our team of doctors work together to provide a complete plan that best benefits each patient. We feel that by improving our patients’ dental health and appearance, we’re also helping them build confident and overall well-being.
DENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATES OF MADISON (608) 284-5400 dhamadison.com info@dhamadison.com
The compassion that our doctors and staff have for this community extends beyond the clinic walls. As an organization, we support over 2 dozen different groups including Second Harvest Foodbank, Boys and Girls Club, Madison Children’s Museum, American Family Children’s Hospital, Special Olympics, and many more. We care about our community and those that we share it with.
DOWNTOWN 44 E Mifflin St, Suite 204 (608) 256-0499
UNIVERSITY
2713 Marshall Ct (608) 442-4400
EAST 49 N Walbridge Ave (608) 246-2555
WEST – GAMMON
7001 Old Sauk Rd (608) 833-2578
WEST – ORTHODONTICS
7007 Old Sauk Rd (608) 833-6112
SOUTH 2971 Chapel Valley Rd (608) 661-6400
WEST – OLD SAUK
7017 Old Sauk Rd (608) 833-1889
DR. CATE BRUMM, DR. JESSICA MELBY, DR. KELLEEN MCCLAIN, DR. MEGAN ABELL, DR. LINDSAY LICHTENBERG, DR. AUDRA LONG
Architectural Building Arts, Inc., or “ABA” as we are commonly referred to by our clients and friends, specializes in residential remodels that include major renovations, additions, and historical restorations. Our approach is designed to deliver a remodeling experience that is more enjoyable and less stressful for our clients.
As a woman-owned company in a traditionally male-dominated construction industry, ABA is unique. Our president, Melinda Monroe, has played an integral part in the success of ABA, our community, and our culture. She continues to build a team that embraces and provides opportunities for both women and men in our company and the larger Madison community. Melinda’s passion for the business is reflected through her dedicated hands-on approach to leadership, which she manages with grace and composure. The example she sets has laid a foundation built around family values that will last for generations to come.
720 Hill St., Madison (608) 233-2106 designbuildmadison.com
“I am honored and blessed to have the opportunity to initiate change as a woman in business and to work with so many amazing clients, wonderful family members, and talented employees creating beautiful transformations to the residences and businesses of our community.” — Melinda Monroe
Dane Sheriff Women Our Team ~ Your Dream
115 W. Doty Street Madison (608) 284-6166 teamdane.com
Making an impact in their community – that’s what these women of the Dane County Sheriff’s Office do each and every day. They represent generations of women who have chosen a career in law enforcement and have crushed the stereotypical idea of what a law enforcement officer should be or do. Each has her own unique history that contributes to successful partnerships between our law enforcement agency and the communities we serve.
According to these women, choosing a career of law enforcement is a life-changing decision which comes with many rewards and opportunities. “Working closely with the community is important to me,” says Deputy Josalyn Longley. Deputy Longley, who recently received the “American Legion Officer of the Year Award,” currently, conducts active shooter training for businesses and organizations throughout Dane County. The Dane County Sheriff’s Office offers endless leadership opportunities, from working in the jail, to community policing, to supervisory assignments which take into account individual skills and interests.
Thinking about a rewarding career in law enforcement? Looking for something challenging and interesting? The Dane County Sheriff’s Office is currently hiring. Check us out! Applications and information about available opportunities can be found at http://www.teamdane.com. Join us for a ride-along, jail tour and/or a one-on-one conversation about a career in law enforcement. Contact Training Lieutenant Alecia Rauch at (608) 284-6166 or rauch@danesheriff.com.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: DEPUTY KRISTINA GRAMS, DEPUTY JOSALYN LONGLEY, CAPTAIN JAN TETZLAFF, LT. ALECIA RAUCH, DETECTIVE SABRINA SIMS, DEPUTY BERENICE HERRERA, DEPUTY HAYLEY COLLINS-LAFEVRE
DANE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
We LOVE helping people, we just happen to sell real estate! Let us prove it to YOU! Contact us anytime with your real estate questions! We want to sincerely thank our amazing clients for helping us be the #1 Real Estate Team in our area! We’re very excited to have recently expanded to Middleton and look forward to being of service to our expanded communities!
‘One of the greatest of my joys besides my family and my five children is my passion and love to help other people realize their goals and dreams! - Jo Ferraro
Testimonials:
“We couldn’t be happier with the entire process of selling our home and buying another with the Jo Ferraro Team! They were amazing! Jo and the entire Team treat you more like family instead of just a client. Would ONLY use The Jo Ferraro Team in the future!”
- Timothy and Julie
“Amazing! Extremely knowledgeable, creative, and supportive! We’ve sold several properties in the past and they were the absolute BEST! Thank you for making this very important move the best we have experienced.” - Gary and Ginger
JO FERRARO
Build with Fellow Women Leaders
As CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, Valerie Johnson is at the helm of an organization that has built 261 homes, services their mortgages and runs two home supply ReStores and a home repair program. Come build with Valerie at the Dane County Women’s Build on Friday, Sept. 15.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF DANE COUNTY
1014 Fiedler Lane, #29, Madison (608) 255-1549 habitatdane.org/WomensBuild
The Pink Poodle
Still consigning after 15 years! Our new location at Market Square embodies the style and elegance of upscale shopping for men and women, yet remains so affordable. Boundless selections of designer wear; impressive arrays of handbags, shoes, and jewelry — providing a shopping experience like no other. Hours: Mon. – Sat. 10 - 6, Sun. 12 - 5.
THE PINK POODLE
6676 Odana Rd., Madison (608) 276-7467 thepinkpoodleonline.net
Krystle Nelson
Krystle received a Master’s degree in Professional Accounting with an emphasis in taxation from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She joined KMA Bodilly CPAs & Consultants, S.C. in July 2011 as a staff accountant, quickly moved to senior accountant and is currently a tax manager. She has developed into a technology problem solver at KMA Bodilly and was recognized for her accomplishments as an Emerging Leader by Wolters Kluwer. This recognition allowed her to attend the CCH User Conference in October 2016 where she connected with other young professionals. Krystle is responsible for providing a diverse range of tax and accounting services to the firm’s clients, as well as training and developing younger staff. When she is not helping her small business clients with their tax and accounting needs, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two (soon to be three) young children.
KMA BODILLY CPAS & CONSULTANTS, S.C.
1200 John Q Hammons Dr, Ste 500, Madison (608) 664-1040 krystle.nelson@cpakma.com
VALERIE JOHNSON, CEO OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF DANE COUNTY
KRYSTLE NELSON
BETH TESTA, OWNER
THE ART OF DREAM CATCHING
MEGAN WATT KNOWS IT TAKES A TEAM
BY MEG ROTHSTEIN
YEARS AGO, MEGAN WATT WAS treated to a bit of coffee break philosophy by an old colleague and friend, who told her that you can never have all three of the “big things” in life: a relationship, the ideal place to live and a perfect career. At least not all at once, anyway.
“My immediate response was, ‘Well. That’s crap!’” Watt says, letting loose peals of laughter. “Some people think it’s naive to think that you can have it all but I think of myself as an optimist. The world can be depressing. If I don’t think that I can have an amazing life, then why try at all?” For Watt, an amazing life includes ample time to invest in her passion trifecta: teaching, leadership and dreaming big—the groundwork of her business, Dream Catalyst Labs.
Dream Catalyst Labs, offers speaking, training and coaching services for business, nonprofit, education and professional association clients. Watt, known for her wit and liveliness as a speaker, launched Dream Catalyst as a side gig with her wife and co-founder Ilsa May in 2014 while each kept their separate, full-time careers. The duo made the leap, and made Dream Catalyst Watt’s full-time work as of January 2015.
“We talked about the risks involved in me quitting my job to run Dream Catalyst full time. We looked at our finances and realized we really could live on just Ilsa’s income if we had to. Taking the leap in 2015 really felt right.”
They were methodical about it. “We reviewed and thought through our business plan. I talked to a lot of professional speaker friends and those in business.” Watt enrolled in Upstart—a program for entrepreneurially minded women and people of color starting their own businesses in the Madison area that’s offered through the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and UW. “It’s a phenomenal program,” Watt says.
“We did all of this before I fully quit my startup job. It wasn’t risky. It was a risk. But I bet on myself and Ilsa bet on me,” she says.
MONEY SMARTS
BY KIM SPONEM
I have been saving to start a business. If I find I need some capital, what are some things I need to know?
I am so glad you asked. As the CEO of the credit union that works with many small business owners and has provided more Small Business Administration (SBA) loans in the state of Wisconsin than any other credit union for six years in a row,* I am excited to address this.
First, congratulations on your business and on saving to start it! Keep saving as you develop your idea and business plan.
As part of the process, entrepreneurs often share their ideas with family or friends willing to provide funds from crowd-sourcing or directly; most start-ups are initially funded this way. These funds are important because lenders want to know that you have a financial stake in your business’s success. Not having enough capital is the number one reason businesses fail. It’s key to have a couple years of savings to cover cash flow so you can make the right spending decisions along the way.
Other key points to remember when approaching your financial institution:
• Show that you can become profitable fairly quickly (usually within about 6 months).
• Show your ability to pay off your loan as part of your long-term strategy. If the business takes longer than six months to show a profit, it may be too risky for some lenders or for the SBA. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start
your business, but it might mean it might not be a fit for a certain financial institution.
• Have a good personal credit history.
• Demonstrate what your business does differently that will make it successful.
Key elements of your business plan should include:
• Executive summary – Overview of entire plan, written last.
• Personal background – Profile of skills, experience and how they relate to the business.
• Business concept – Description, goals, industry information and how your business fits in the industry.
• Description of your organization – Ownership, key employees, technology.
• Marketing plan – Market analysis, competitive analysis, strategies, promotional/marketing materials, etc.
• Financial plan – Sources and uses of funds, three years of financial projections with supporting assumptions.
• Attachments such as letters of intent and published articles in which your business has been discussed or you have been cited as an industry expert .
• Personal federal tax returns – Though not always required, keep them handy. At Summit Credit Union, for a startup business loan application, we’ll look for your last three years of personal federal tax returns and a personal financial statement. And there may be a few SBA forms as well.
I strongly recommend working with groups like the UW Small Business Development Center, Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) or SCORE. These organizations provide technical assistance, and offer classes and consultants/mentors whose focus is to support business planning and startup business success. They’re good at what they do, and they will help you prepare a complete business plan to have available for your visit with a lender.
Summit can help you prepare for your business launch and give you the knowledge and tools you need before, during and after you make your business dream a reality.
Best wishes in your business venture!
*SBA Lender of the Year for Credit Unions as awarded by the Small Business Administration of Wisconsin in May, 2017.
Kim Sponem CEO & President, since 2002, of Summit Credit Union, a $2.7 billion, memberowned financial cooperative with more than 162,000 members. Kim has a passion for empowering people to improve their financial well-being for a richer life.
Ask Kim your money questions at MoneySmarts@SummitCreditUnion.com.
OFFICE MATES
No dozing off in front of your device with this office ensemble. It’s bright, fun and functional from ceiling to floor!
DWELL
PRODUCT INFO: Pantone notebooks, $16 each, Jardin weekly desk pad planner by Rifle Paper Company, $12; Madison Modern Market. One in a Million card holder by Kate Spade, $30; Kate Spade Hilldale. Modica file pedestal by BDI, $899; Rubin’s Furniture. Zodiac paper lamp shade by Wildwood, $60; Madison Modern Market. Daisy Place pencil cup by Kate Spade, $20; Kate Spade Hilldale. Bindu executive chair by Coalesse, custom prices; Atmosphere Commercial Interiors.
LADDERS TO SUCCESS
CLIMBING THE JOB LADDER COMES WITH ITS PITFALLS AND SUCCESSES , often taking more than determination to get to the next rung. Mentorship can provide valuable opportunities to learn, grow and cultivate talent in the workforce via the guidance of a more experienced colleague.
Latino Professionals Association of Greater Madison President Tania Ibarra says mentorship can provide three important benefits to career growth. “It allows people to envision career paths they may never have considered, access to a more mature and established network and consideration of opportunities that may not otherwise be considered,” Ibarra says.
Such practical tips provided in a professional context can be especially useful to underrepresented groups within a particular company or sector. “Having real world guidance and insight from an experienced and respected mentor is invaluable and equips the mentee with the competence and credibility they need to take on bigger roles,” says Lisa Peyton-Caire, assistant vice president of Life, Learning and Events at Summit Credit Union.
And for women and people of color, mentorship is, quite often, the key to increased confidence and job success. Ibarra says it’s key to develop the next generation of leaders and include them in a very important network.
“Women are great mentors overall but where we have opportunities to improve and move the needle in gender is in equity,” Ibarra says.
Ibarra also frequently advises mentees to ask questions and to have clear objectives. “Like the saying goes, no one can help you get anywhere if you don’t know where you are going,” Ibarra states. Not that one needs to know right away—but deciding on those goals helps communicate the targeted outcome in each mentor-mentee partnership.
Ibarra says that, as a mentor, she finds value in learning from new perspectives. Taking on a mentee can be helpful to one’s personal growth, as well as the growth of the company and community. PeytonCaire echoes this sentiment. “I think mentors gain great satisfaction in knowing that our knowledge and experience is valuable to others, and that our investment of time and effort is building someone else’s personal and career success while supporting the organization’s success, too.”
Some organizations, like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Madison and the Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals, take it upon themselves to provide coaching and mentorship programs. Others require initiation by the individual seeking a mentoring opportunity. In either circumstance, Peyton-Caire emphasizes: “It all starts with relationships and genuine connections. An effective mentoring program has to be driven by a real commitment to inclusion, and led by folks who understand why this is important.” –Mikayla Mrochek
HAUTE SHOPPE
CHIC. SIMPLE. BIRKENSTOCK
The new look of Birkenstock -- the authentic brand for functional comfort. Its feminine vibe reflects your personal style.
CORNBLOOMS
716 N. Midvale Blvd. Hilldale - Madison (608) 238-9282
FRAME YOUR EYES
Dedicated to pure luxury, Barton Perreira's approach to fashion redefines style and elegance. Only at Ulla Eyewear.
ULLA
702 N. Midvale Blvd Hilldale - Madison (608) 231-3937 ullaeyewear.com
PLUS SIZE FASHION
Z.Bella Boutique specializes in women's plus-size clothing sizes 14 & up. Visit us today for the best selection of curvy fashion from brands such as Joseph Ribkoff, Lucky Brand, Fresh Produce, Karen Kane, Sympli, Spanx, Nic + Zoe & more. Located just off the beltline in downtown Middleton.
Z.BELLA BOUTIQUE
1903 Cayuga St., Suite 101 Middleton, WI (608) 827-8700 zbellaboutique.com
COMFORT AND BEAUTY
The uncommonly-stylish Comfort Sleeper by American Leather offers no bars, no springs, no compromise. Come into Rubin's Furniture to see the many styles available!
RUBIN’S CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE
317 E. Wilson St., Madison (608) 255-8998
670 S. Whitney Way, Madison (608) 274-5575 rubinsfurniture.com
CITY PRETTY AN URBAN GARDEN GALORE
By Marni McEntEE
THIS FRONT GARDEN FLANKING busy East Gorham Street, which carries 18,000 cars a day, is a riot of color in summer, as thousands of blooms thrust forth in fragrant bunches.
And yet, says owner Bob Klebba, the yard is a work in progress.
“It’s all a process. There’s nothing finished about it,” says Klebba, who with partner David Waugh owns the Mendota Lake House Bed and Breakfast, whose front walk passes through sky-high tree lilies and a variety of other natives and exotics.
They purchased the abandoned historic 1911 home from the city in
2012, cleaned up the landcape’s disarray, and started planting annuals, supplied by their own Mount Horeb nursery, Morningwood Farm.
Now they’re integrating perennials, from tulips to fritillaries to daffodils and more. “Our goal is to have flowers from the end of March to Thanksgiving,” says Klebba.
On a recent July day, passersby were taking notice. A woman leading a man on a pair of rented B-Cycles turned her head as she whizzed down the road, yelling and pointing at the garden: “Look at that!” Look at that, indeed.
PHOTOGRAPHED
BY SHANNA WOLF
First Impressions Matter
CONSIDER COSMETIC PROCEDURES TO BUMP UP THE IMPACT
By Maura KEllEr
You never get a second chance to make a good first impression, as the saying goes. So why not make your image at that first meeting, whether for a job interview or a date, as positive and lasting as possible?
Along with coming prepared and refreshing your wardrobe, experts say, more people are considering professional cosmetic procedures to enhance their appearance and guarantee that first meeting is a memorable one.
START WITH YOUR SKIN
“I discuss first impressions with my male and female patients on a daily basis as this is often what has driven the desire to seek help with their skin,” says Genevieve Schultz, medical aesthetician at SSM Health Aesthetic Center in Middleton. “My patients’ concerns around first impressions vary from preparing for an upcoming job interview, going back to school, entering the dating scene, having or attending a wedding, focusing on anti-aging and prevention or simply preparing their skin or body to be more visible during the summer months.”
“THERE IS NO BETTER INVESTMENT THAT ONE CAN MAKE THAN IN THEIR SKIN HEALTH.”
–Genevieve Schultz, medical aesthetician at SSM Health Aesthetic Center in Middleton.
Schultz says her first step is designing a home skin care regimen for patients that is customized to their skin type and overall skin health goals and catered to their lifestyle.
Schultz currently works with two professional skin care lines: Dermalogica, which was researched and developed by the International Dermal Institute, and Environ, a South African physician-only skin care system that was founded by one of the world’s leading authorities on the use of vitamin A in skin care.
Schultz designs skin treatments around hyperpigmentation (brown spots), sun damage, teen and adult acne, antiaging and skin firming treatments, and permanent hair reduction of the face and body. She uses a combination of chemical exfoliation and different modes of technology in the treatment room to enhance these treatments and procedures.
MEET OUR NON-INVASIVE SKIN HEALTH AND ENHANCEMENT TEAM
RELAX RENEW refresh
Our team of highly-qualified professionals is here to help you be your own kind of beautiful. This testimonial from our patient is what keeps us striving to bring your best skin forward:
I started my skin care journey believing the false claims that the over-the-counter products promised. After experiencing the frustration of not seeing the desired results, I knew I needed to seek the advice of a medical professional.
I first sought out treatment advice from Genevieve Schultz at the SSM Health Aesthetic Center. She assured me that my goal of naturallooking, progressive results could be accomplished. After receiving a series of IPL photo facials and a customized home care regimen, my skin had a radiance and tone that I haven’t seen in a long time!
It was then recommended that I meet with Physicians Assistants Amber Reynolds and Kierstyn Block. I put my trust in these educated professionals and received Botox and fillers to smooth the crow’s feet around my eyes and improve the aging lines around my mouth. These fantastic treatments produced a natural appearance that admirers constantly compliment.
With age comes wisdom and I have become very “skin wise” thanks to the skin experts at the SSM Health Aesthetic Center.
– Margaret S.
Physician Assistant Amber Reynolds, Medical Aesthetician Genevieve Schultz and Physician Assistant Kierstyn Block
smile.
A new smile that gives you confidence can be yours more easily than you might think, and change your life more than you'd ever imagine . ”
imagin
Jay Hazen DDS Dentistry for Madison
See Kelly’s new smile at : asmilecanchangealife.com
“I think we often take for granted that our skin extends beyond our neck [and], therefore, tend to be less concerned about how that feels or looks,” Schultz says. “In our office, not only do we have skin care products available for the face but a wide variety of products to treat the skin on the body.”
The Environ Body Range includes a collection of products that contain rich vitamins and antioxidants to enhance the appearance and overall health of the skin. A favorite this summer has been the Body Profile, which Schultz says is a very effective and unique formulation that contains Myriceline, which is involved in the metabolic process of fat storage. When used topically can be helpful in eliminating and preventing cellulite.
“If used correctly, this product delivers results by firming and remodeling the skin, leaving the texture healthier and smoother,” Schultz says. “It can impact first impressions as it can dramatically improve the texture and tone of the skin in the areas of the buttocks, thighs, stomach and upper arms”
Schultz says she always reminds clients that exercise and a healthy diet are also part of keeping one’s skin looking healthy and youthful.
“There is no better investment that one can make than in their skin health,” Schultz says. “Our philosophy is designed entirely around helping our patients empower their confidence to know when they leave our clinic they will continue to make long-lasting first impressions in their lives.”
TREATMENTS FOR YOUTHFUL LOOKING SKIN
There’s a wide variety of options available to those looking for additional help in putting their best self forward, says Dr. Kevin Robertson, founder of Robertson Cosmetic Center in Middleton.
“Beyond beauty, our first impressions immediately create expectations for social skills, academic performance, financial success and even personality traits,” Robertson says. “People who make more favorable first impressions are deemed healthier and more vital.”
Some cosmetic procedures can enhance what comes naturally.
“Today patients are good at recognizing the cosmetic procedures that are most likely to improve first impressions. However, they don’t see them as a whole; they tend to address them as individual treatments.”
The individual treatments focus on professional makeup, physician prescribed skin care, skin resurfacing options and clinic-based injectables.
“This allows us to deliver significantly better results for skin tightening, age spot clearance, wrinkle reduction, and pore minimization,” Robertson says.
Skin resurfacing includes a whole palette of chemical peels, intense pulse light treatments, fractionated laser resurfacing, conventional laser resurfacing or even combinations to further enhance the restoration of youthful skin. Robertson says the best injectables are muscle-relaxing injections like Botox and Dysport, and soft tissue filler injections.
“PEOPLE
–Dr. Kevin Robertson, founder of Robertson Cosmetic Center in
Middleton.
“Luckily the cosmetic provider world should now know that less is clearly more,” he says. “A light touch using multiple modalities provides our most natural, subconsciously powerful, and most valuable intervention when considering influences on first impressions.”
SENSATIONAL SMILES
If the prospect of showing your teeth in public can wipe the smile off your face, it might be time for a little dental TLC. Today, millions of people every year are improving their smiles (and their selfesteem) thanks to cosmetic dentists.
“What do your teeth say about you?” asks dentist Dr. Jay Hazen, owner of Dentistry for Madison. If you don’t care for the answer to that question, Hazen says modern dentistry can help. From cosmetic procedures to partial or full-mouth reconstruction to gen -
eral dentistry, a variety of treatments can improve smiles. Hazen’s team can dramatically lighten dark, stained teeth by using dental office-based whitening procedures, which tend to give the best results. Crooked or crowded teeth that are shaped well can easily be improved using clear liners that are worn in a series and gently move teeth to a better position over time. It’s also easier to keep straighter teeth clean and gums healthy, Hazen says.
“Having teeth that are aligned and fit together properly has many benefits. Many people with crooked teeth have excessive wear on those teeth and may lose those teeth early due to fractures or trauma,” Hazen says.
Chipped teeth also can be bonded with composite to improve their shape and color, a less costly way to dramatically help improve one’s smile.
Hazen’s team also helps with other issues as well, such as treating people who clench or grind their teeth, which can even cause tooth fractures and may lead to jaw pain. Plus, flat, worn teeth may make a person appear older than they are.
“Something as simple as a splint or bite guard can protect teeth from this very distracting habit,” Hazen says.
It’s important to remember, he says, that nowadays we are living longer and keeping our teeth most, if not all, of our life. As a result, our teeth are often wearing out before we are done with them.
Taking extra care, and visiting a cosmetic dentistry professional when needed, can go a long way toward making sure our teeth are healthy, strong and making good first impressions for a lifetime.
For over a century, we have worked side-by-side with our clients to navigate the complex legal issues affecting their lives. We know the best counsel comes with a wide lens and the perspective to see all your available options. We invite you to get to know Boardman & Clark. Together, we can chart the best path forward. 1 8 81
Recently, the BRAVA team posed a thought-provoking question: “WHAT MAKES A COMPANY A GREAT PLACE TO WORK?”
Between a survey, interviews with experts and chats with local businesses, we found our answers.
BY SHELBY DEERING PHOTOGRAPHED BY HILLARY SCHAVE
MORE THAN JUST A JOB
THERE’S AN UNDENIABLE FACT in today’s world—our work lives and our personal lives are intertwined. The stresses of work can carry over to home, and vice versa. Responsibilities abound. And it’s not as simple as compartmentalizing your job apart from your life. We’re all human. Our concerns, worries and everyday tasks ebb and flow between our personal and professional existences.
A workplace that “gets” those intrinsic things about people is paramount to keeping employees happy. Benefits, a pleasant atmosphere, flexibility— there are several moving parts involved when creating a “great” place to work.
So, we cast our net to discover those must-have components of an ideal workplace, wrapping in the insights of three local HR experts and a few local companies with exemplary workplaces, benefits and opportunities as well as BRAVA readers’ thoughts gathered from a recent survey.
Whether you’re content or considering a change, the bottom line is that these findings are empowering, especially to women who tend to experience added frustrations, double standards and a lack of equality in the workplace. We hope that you will use this as a starting point to consider what you need and what your company offers, and to not only advocate for yourself, but for other women, too.
LEAVE TIME
here are many reasons why it’s important for employees to have access to leave, whether it’s paid or unpaid—vacations, sick time, maternity and paternity leave, bereavement, adoption.
Coreyne Woodman-Holoubek is a vice president of contracted leadership and president of DisruptHR Madison/Milwaukee, an idea forum to invigorate the HR field. Her experiences, particularly around leave, motivated Woodman-Holoubek to move on from her previous employer, which led to her current role.
She says, “I watched my female peers in high-level positions and the experiences they had during their pregnancies and after their very short 12 weeks of Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) mandated maternity leave in which they only received 60 percent of their usual salary, which was capped at the maximum amount. My peers saved up their vacation time over the year and used it on top of their FMLA and short-term disability (STD) to support themselves and their families, supplementing the salary being lost during leave.”
She notes that unfortunately, the U.S. is at the bottom of industrialized countries in terms of the funded parental leave that is provided. Woodman-Holoubek also believes that the “short term disability” associated with maternity leave carries stigma.
“In my mind, alluding to pregnancy and maternity as ‘a disability’ in our workplace only furthers the inequality and the uphill battle women face in the world of work.”
So, what’s the solution? Woodman-Holoubek applauds “forward-thinking organizations” that are “starting to fund maternity leave outside of the state and federal FMLA-mandated and STD-funded leave.”
Janet Johnson, COO and VP of sales and marketing at The QTI Group, says that some cutting-edge companies are doing away with vacation and sick time altogether, and reflects on the positives of that.
“Work when you need to work and be off when you need to be off,” she says. “Meet your goals. Deliver on your responsibilities. Trust your team, and a good outcome will happen.”
BRAVA READERS SAY
BENEFITS THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO THEM (IN ORDER OF IMPORTANCE) OUTSIDE OF LEAVE AND RETIREMENT
APPROACHABLE MANAGEMENT
ANNUAL RAISES & SALARY ADJUSTMENTS
PAY EQUALITY
FLEX OR COMP TIME
STRUCTURE FOR GIVING/ACCEPTING FEEDBACK, COLLABORATIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT
EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT, CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY
GRIEVANCE POLICIES & STRUCTURES
MERIT PAY
BONUSES, OVERTIME PAY
DEFINED COMPENSATION SCHEDULE
BRAVA READERS SAY THEIR CURRENT BENEFITS INCLUDE (MOST TO LEAST OFFERED) IN ADDTION TO LEAVE AND RETIREMENT
EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT
APPROACHABLE MANAGEMENT
COLLABORATIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT
FLEX OR COMP TIME
STRUCTURE FOR GIVING/ACCEPTING FEEDBACK
ANNUAL RAISES AND SALARY ADJUSTMENTS
BONUSES
GRIEVANCE POLICIES & STRUCTURES
CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY
MERIT PAY
DEFINED COMPENSATION SCHEDULE
PAY EQUALITY
OVERTIME PAY
WISCONSIN ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH:
Paid Leave for New Moms
IT’S NOT EVERY DAY that a nonprofit can provide three months of paid leave to new mothers. But at the Wisconsin Alliance for Women’s Health, they’ve made it a priority.
Sara Finger, the founder and executive director of the nonprofit which employs five paid staff, says, “Our vision is that every woman in Wisconsin—at every age and every stage of life—is able to reach her optimal health, safety and economic security.”
This advocacy carries over to the nonprofit’s employees as well, offering maternity leave with pay.
Finger explains, “We don’t believe someone’s financial security should be compromised when they take some time away to care for themselves, a newborn or another loved one. We value the wellbeing of our staff and support structuring our workplace in a healthy way that leads to employee satisfaction and work-life balance.”
Policy Director Mike Murray says, “As the staff person who is responsible for promoting paid family and medical leave public policies, it is incredibly powerful to be able to show that WAWH ‘walks the walk.’”
Chelsea Aeschbach, PATCH program development manager, recently went on maternity leave and is very grateful for it.
She says, “I have been able to create a positive connection and emotional bond with my son, physically recover from the birthing process and emotionally and mentally adjust to a major life event. We thankfully have not had to sacrifice our income as part of the process. Instead, we’ve been able to enjoy this precious time. I have felt empowered to be a mom without the constraints of time or finances.”
Amy Olejniczak, associate director, echoes this, saying, “We’ve been able to grow our family without fear of instability and without pressure to choose between nurturing my newborn and rushing back to work. I truly don’t ever want to work anywhere else.”
AMY OLEJNICZAK, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, WISCONSIN ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH AND NEW MOM
PAY EQUITY
qual pay is a hot-button issue in today’s society. And it should be [see gender pay gap sidebar]. Johnson puts it simply, saying, “It is best for organizations to have a compensation strategy that reflects consistent practices regardless of gender.”
“Many women don’t feel empowered in the workplace,” says Laura S. Gmeinder, president of Laura Gmeinder Coaching & Consulting and a DisruptHR organizer.
Although Woodman-Holoubek says that “great workplaces are those organizations that are equitable and transparent in their benefits,” there’s still much work to be done. In the meantime, the experts recommend being your own advocate.
Gmeinder says, “While women are making gains in the board room and in leadership positions, many even at the highest levels in their company still struggle to move past impostor syndrome and to advocate for their best interests. [Companies should offer] professional development focused on building up and harnessing a woman’s inner leader.”
ADVANCEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
rofessional development aids in helping an employee to feel well-rounded, more knowledgeable and it can better place her on the path toward advancement. Gmeinder says, “For those motivated by growth, companies should make sure to find development opportunities with a clear path for career advancement or skill attainment.”
Gmeinder believes that a workplace is great when it focuses on helping employees to feel whole and confident, which is something women can struggle with.
She says, “A great workplace is one where the leadership team focuses on developing employees by providing and supporting professional development: creating a coaching culture and provide ongoing feedback. It’s important to create a culture focused on continuous improvement. What does that look like? Offering learning opportunities tailored to your employees and including an educational assistance plan as part of your benefits package.”
GENDER PAY GAP
IT STILL EXISTS, BUT IT’S NARROWING, ESPECIALLY FOR YOUNGER WORKERS
$1 WHITE MAN
80¢ WHITE WOMAN
63¢ BLACK WOMAN
54¢ LATINA
Source: American Association of University Women, 2017
ALLIANT ENERGY:
A
Network for Women
ALLIANT ISN’T JUST SUPPLYING ENERGY solutions throughout the Midwest—it’s creating a palpable energy among its female employees as well through an impactful women’s group.
Paula Steinhorst, strategic project manager and team lead, serves as the chair for the Wisconsin chapter of the Women’s Network. Open to all employees, the group focuses on helping women develop in their careers and make personal and professional on-the-job connections along the way.
With over 700 employees at the Madison office, the network creates an environment where female employees can bridge gaps, especially women who otherwise may not have other chances to meet due to working in varying departments and locations. It also provides ways to harness knowledge.
Steinhorst says, “The Women’s Network allows members to learn topics that can help them build leadership and soft skills. It gives members the opportunity to network and connect with fellow employees and our leadership team [comprised of] company executives.”
The group upholds Alliant Energy’s values.
“Respect is one of our core values,” says Steinhorst. “Alliant Energy continues to build the kind of workplace where women can lean in without getting pushed back. Our Information Technology Services department has women in 40 percent of leadership positions, including the two senior managers.”
Tammy Bartels, joint facilities coordinator, has benefited from the group socially.
She says, “I work in a department of two, so getting to know other employees was challenging. I’ve made new friends, folks I can say hello to in the halls. I can also ask for guidance or direction when needed.”
Steinhorst’s life has also been enriched through Alliant’s inclusive workplace.
“As a woman and a minority, Alliant has offered me many opportunities during my 20 years of working here. I am glad to work for a company whose leadership team and executives support and care for their employees.”
PAULA STEINHORST, STRATEGIC PROJECT MANAGER (FRONT LEFT) AND TOMMY BARTLELS (MIDDLE, THIRD FROM RIGHT) WITH ALLIANT ENERGY WOMEN’S NETWORK
Focus on Wellness
IT’S SIMPLE: a healthier employee is a happier employee. Promega Madison leaders have not only embraced this idea—they’ve run with it.
With over 850 employees on its local campus, it’s no surprise that the genetics pioneer puts health on the top of the list. Onsite, you’ll find an on-site wellness clinic, which is free to all employees. Physical therapy. Acupuncture. Reiki. Emotional and social intelligence programs. Bikes. A garden managed by a culinary team. They even have something called “Third Spaces,” which are “softer” work areas that allow staff to work in a fresh environment for clear minds. There’s an on-site Perennial Yoga studio that holds prenatal yoga classes. And the offerings go on and on.
Heather S. Gerard, Promega’s intellectual property manager, says, “What is not to love?” adding, “The offerings allow the opportunity to meet others in the company. Playing volleyball or attending a group fitness class can help build relationships, both work and personal.”
Darbie Miller, director of HR organizational development, says that “the number of benefits offered on-site helps promote work-life balance to balance the demands of home with work without sacrificing wellness,” something that women can particularly relate to.
What it comes down to is that wellness at work promotes a balanced life at home, and Promega is nurturing that for all its employees. PROMEGA:
BRAVA READERS SAY WORK SCHEDULE PREFERENCES
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING
TELECOMMUTING
SUMMER HOURS
JOB SHARING
HEATHER S. GERARD, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGER AT PROMEGA
BENEFITS
enefits not only attract employees to a company; they encourage them to stay. Great workplaces are “transparent in their benefits” says WoodmanHoloubek.
Although many companies offer an array of benefits, Woodman-Holoubek believes there is room for improvement.
“Organizations need to work on providing employees benefits and perks that are a reflection of the modern-day ‘synchronicity’ of work and life. Benefits need to be based more on life stages, and not seniority.”
One trend that Johnson has noticed is dual benefits—leave time and work-life balance options—for both women and men, to address the stages in their lives as new parents.
“We are seeing more and more organizations offer dual benefits to both women and men, as there are many fathers that take on family needs and balance work and family.”
WELLBEING
ellbeing is frequently something that’s cast by the wayside for women, in the interest of fulfilling their responsibilities at home and at work. Many progressive workplaces have embraced fostering healthier employees through extensive programming.
Gmeinder says, “Forward-thinking companies are trying to encourage wellness in the workplace, whether they bring in speakers, have organized walks or enhance work environments, like for example installing standing desks or onsite workout facilities.”
Woodman-Holoubek thinks companies can go even further in their basic wellness offerings.
“I have visited a number of companies in Madison that are now offering on-site athletics, meditations and yoga during the lunch hour and breaks for whole-body wellness and stress reduction.”
The bottom line is: In order to cultivate employees who are content, even at peace, workplaces should embrace the idea that their employees aren’t just employees—they’re whole people.
Gmeinder sums up this idea, saying, “A key element of a great workplace is one where employees don’t have to leave their hearts at the door.”
AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE:
A Diverse Board
AMERICAN FAMILY IS A COMPANY that’s proved to be innovative—its DreamBank space located on the Capitol Square is an example of this, a place where entrepreneurial spirits and families can learn and grow. This dedication to betterment can also be witnessed through its corporate board of directors. Recently, American Family was recognized as “W” Winning Company by national organization 2020 Women on Boards, for its commitment to increasing the percentage of women of its board.
Jessie Stauffacher, chief operating officer, says that the board’s diversity is a strength.
“We believe our board of directors is a source of competitive advantage for us. Not only does our board provide good corporate governance, but they also provide leadership for our strategic plans and corporate vision. They are able to do this through their strong diversity of thought. Our board members have various backgrounds, experiences and personalities which ensures a balanced perspective. While we strive to have gender and racial diversity, we also strive to have diversity in experiences and expertise.”
The 13-member board, which is currently on an active search for new members, is representative of the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
“It’s critical to have diverse experiences and perspectives for effective decision-making,” says Stauffacher. “Diverse perspectives enable us to better identify business opportunities and risks, ask the tough questions and innovate. Our customers benefit when our board is able to make thoughtful decisions to formulate and achieve our company’s strategy. We will continue to do more to expand the diversity of our board.”
Stauffacher says, “We encourage employees to be their true, authentic selves at work, where they can take risks and feel supported. That’s one reason we’ve got such a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.”
AMERICAN FAMILY BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PHOTO BY SHAWN HARPER
WORKING THE DREAM
AND THE ENTREPRENEURIAL STRUGGLE
By Sagashus Levingston and Amy Gannon
Photographed by Hillary Schave
Entrepreneurship—it captures the imagination of people across race, class and gender, and, for many, it’s a pathway to the American Dream.
But for some groups, particularly women of color, grabbing onto that dream still has its limitations.
Women own 38 percent of all businesses, a five-fold increase since 2007, according to the 2016 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report. The number of minority-women-owned firms also increased, by three times that of all women-owned firms, the report says; in fact, they are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs.
And, according to Forbes, businesses owned by black women generate $44 billion in revenue a year.
The real revelation, however, comes in learning about how little funding black women receive for their startups. In the tech field, for example, a Project DIANE report disclosed that from 2012 to 2014 black women in tech had received only .2 percent of all venture funding. On average, white men received $1.3 million, compared to the $36,000 startup funding black women received.
The glaring question is this: When black and Latina women are pursuing entrepreneurship at a higher rate than any other group, why is their funding so hard to come by?
Exploring the role of identity in the entrepreneurial process is one way to help us understand this trend. Often, when people think “entrepreneur,” what comes to mind is someone who’s male and white—indeed, the person, the data shows, who gets the most financial backing. But what happens to those of us who don’t fit that image?
Our identities shape the experience of starting and running a business, and our life experiences are shaped by the intersections of those different identities. How we experience being a woman depends on whether we are black or white. How we experience our race or ethnic identity depends on whether we are male or female. How we experience motherhood depends on whether we are middle class or working class. All the identities we bring to our entrepreneurial efforts intersect in meaningful ways.
The way we cultivate, legitimize and support entrepreneurs should consider the intersections of those many identities, as well. Startups happen within the context of a life, not the other way around. To truly support business efforts, it’s important that the support considers the ways in which whole lives intersect with entrepreneurship. The stories of three budding entrepreneurs—Shirmiel Duncan, Jelissa Edwards and Jasmine Banks— tell us why and help us consider how.
Who has a right to be an entrepreneur?
RESPONDING TO A NEED
TO A NEED
At its heart, entrepreneurship is about solving problems and creating new opportunities. Many successful entrepreneurs hatch their ideas based on problems they are personally experiencing and then realize they are not alone. By solving their own problem, they help others. It is “necessity entrepreneurship” and “survival entrepreneurship.”
Meet Shirmiel Duncan. She is 34, married, and a mother of five. Duncan is interested in starting her own childcare business. “I came to entrepreneurship because there was a need,” she says. “With my family size, it isn’t feasible for me to be in the workplace. Being your own boss, you get to set your own hours. You get to bend your schedule the way that you need it. The most recent example of this was my son needing neurological testing. He has a lot of special needs that working a regular 40-hour-a-week job does not allow me to attend to in the way they need to be attended. As the owner of my own business, if I need to, I can drop everything to meet that need as opposed to having to put in for time off,” she says.
For Duncan, entrepreneurship is intricately tied to her role as a mother. It is a pathway that allows her to be both a present parent and a partner who is co-providing for her family. As she explores this option, she finds herself getting lost in the process.
The first problem she faces is completing her business plan. As it seems, she is doing the work, but the expectations about the final outcome are not transparent. She recalls her experience with a potential funder. “In the beginning, what they were asking me was challenging, but I rose to the challenge. This is going to be my third or fourth time submitting a plan. There is always something I have to ‘tweak,” says Duncan.
The second problem is accessibility. From her perspective, the authorities who can give her permission to move on to the next level are unavailable. “Someone in the organization told me to send my plan to her. But she didn’t get back to me,” says Duncan. “I feel like I’ve been pushed to the side.”
The lacking reconnection with Duncan is about something bigger than providing a good service or support. It delays her venture. “The business plan dictates my ability to get the money in order to secure a facility,” says Duncan.
Although she wants to resist the thought, she can’t help but wonder if her race is an obstacle. “It feels like a black thing, but sometimes you can’t be sure. In our society, we hear about black people being pushed aside every day, and then it happens to you. You see the difference in their body language when they talk to you, and you see the difference in their treatment of you,” says Duncan. “But I feel that if I were white, I would have my facility already, and we would be past this part,” she says, frustrated. It’s hard not to consider this, when you consider the funding gaps the data shows.
She also thinks about whether or not doing “women’s work,” namely what is perceived as black women’s work, presents another problem—that the kind of business she wants to start invites dismissal. “I’ve said to myself before that maybe I’m not taken seriously because I want to own a daycare. But as long as there is a need, I will pursue it. We’re the ones that take care of everybody’s babies. I don’t know if society is looking at childcare as a black woman’s easy way out, but for some of us, being there and taking care of other people’s children is a passion. Being a childcare provider is important because we help shape the future of kids. I take that seriously. Society doesn’t realize the importance of the need of childcare,” she says.
Recognizing that people may not take her business plan seriously because they see her business as glorified babysitting, she finds herself stuck, unsure and floundering to gain legitimacy. As a community, what can we do to help women like Duncan succeed?
SHIRMIEL DUNCAN, CHILDCARE ENTREPRENEUR, WITH FAMILY.
BUILDING THE VENTURE
Entrepreneurs develop products all the time. But products are not businesses. Marketing, channels for delivery, packaging plans and connections make up a business. Building this machinery often requires a set of skills, experiences and support that were not needed to create the product. Being an “untraditional” entrepreneur can compound the difficulty of attaining these things.
Meet Jelissa Edwards. She is 26, a single mother of two and an author who has completed her first book, “Loyal to the Game: Fighting for What’s Mine.”
“Five years from now, I want to be a best-selling author who, eventually, wants to start her own publishing company. I want to give voice to people who haven’t had one because that was me. My voice is in my book,” says Edwards.
As she works to fulfill this vision, she finds mothering can be a barrier in entrepreneurial spaces. “Often, when I meet with people, I have to bring my children with me. I’ve been in meetings with people where the other person was uncomfortable because my children were there,” says Edwards. “My son has a disability, and sometimes needed my attention. I was there, taking notes, doing the best I could. But the person was impatient and cut the meeting short. She said we can resume it later, and we never did. That was very discouraging. The sad thing is she was another woman with kids,” she says.
But that wasn’t her first experience with feeling cut off or dismissed. “Before I got with the publishing company I’m with now, we didn’t get a response. People [in general] were too busy to give me advice. A part of me don’t know how to feel. Am I being brushed off? I’m looking for resources. And I need help. But help is really hard to find. It scares me. It makes me think I may never get to where I want to be,” says Edwards.
Her story begs the question: Who has a right to be an entrepreneur? And what parts of oneself does she have to amputate to enter that space? It’s no secret that entrepreneurship is often a male-dominated arena. But even when women are in positions of power, it is not uncommon for the status quo to be maintained. Women are often gatekeepers of practices that may go against our own best interests. Although Edwards’ story speaks to the challenges faced by a young, single, African-American mother, the issues she faces are women’s issues. Our culture may be shifting to encourage more men to increase their responsibility at home, but women are still the primary caregivers for children. When we work to create entrepreneurial models that consider women like Edwards, we create viable options for mothers across the board.
JELISSA EDWARDS, ENTREPRENEURIAL AUTHOR
Five years from now, I want to be a bestselling author who, eventually, wants to start her own publishing company. I want to give voice to people who haven’t had one because that was me. My voice is in my book.
- Jelissa Edwards
”
EveryGETTING FUNDING
business needs funding to launch and grow. While this may seem straightforward, it really isn’t. Entrepreneurs have to develop a strategy that addresses how much money they need, at what points in time, and from what sources. They often struggle with, or overlook, this strategic step. When they do take it into account, they learn quickly that raising money is damn hard. While it is hard for everyone, it is definitely more challenging for some. The wealth gap between black and white members of this country is significant, for many historical and current reasons, and study after study demonstrates that there is racial bias in financial lending. In the black community, this is common knowledge.
Jasmine Banks, 48, single, mother of one and grandmother of two, is the founder and CEO of Perfect Imperfections, a natural body care line. Discovering entrepreneurship in mid-life, she is conservative about the kinds of financial risks she is willing to take. At almost 50, the stakes can be too high.
“There is no way on God’s green earth, as a single mother, I would be able to quit my job and pursue my dream. Knowing credit the way that I do, there is no way I can ask for a small business loan. I don’t have the credit. Even if I had the credit, I couldn’t afford to repay the loan because I don’t make enough to pay the bank,” says Banks.
“While participating in a program, I asked the question: ‘Can you start a business without going into debt?’ And the banker looked at me like I was crazy. But I don’t have a cushion. I don’t have anything but my house. It’s not that I’m not invested. I don’t want to take risks I can’t come back from,” she says.
Banks recognizes that she is too mature to be living the poetic life of a starving artist. She understands that the days of taking the kinds of risks that can land her without a home are behind her. Yet, needing to avoid the possibility of losing her home does not change the fact that owning her own business should be a realistic option. “This is my dream. I literally want to be able to do something I enjoy. I want to be able to wake up and create,” Banks says.
This was not always the plan. “I came to entrepreneurship by accident,” she says. “My mom passed away from cervical cancer. She was diagnosed in June and passed away in November. It was so traumatic for me. I started to think about things we mindlessly use: deodorant, toothpaste, etc. The words or ingredients I couldn’t understand I started looking up. A lot of the side ef-
JASMINE BANKS, NATURAL BODY CARE PRODUCTS ENTREPRENEUR
While participating in a program, I asked the question: ‘Can you start a business without going into debt?’ And the banker looked at me like I was crazy. But I don’t have a cushion. I don’t have anything but my house. It’s not that I’m not invested. I don’t want to take risks I can’t come back from.
”
- JASMINE BANKS
fects were negative. And they would say those negative effects were in small doses. And I started thinking that if we have been using these items over time, they’ve now become huge doses. So I started with soap. It was the first thing I made. And then I made a sugar scrub for my daughter’s baby shower. I made a sugar scrub for everyone who RSVP’d. People started to ask me how much I sell my scrub for. Enough people asked me, and I started thinking maybe I should sell it. I got together a bunch of girlfriends, and we put together a craft fair. And I pretty much sold out of my item. Had someone not asked, ‘How much are you selling this for?,’ I never would’ve started my own business.”
Becoming an entrepreneur might have been accidental, but the products Banks creates are very intentional. Often, they are inspired by her customers’ feedback. Scented whipped body butter, candles, and lotion bars are some of the client-inspired items now included in her lineup.
Creating with her customers in mind is not just about smart expansion, it’s about solving problems. She recalls an encounter with a woman at one of her shows. “She showed me her hands and showed me how cracked they were and said she needed [a lotion bar] for them. And I told her, ‘Now you got me excited because I have to think about how to make something that you can carry around with you.’ So I created a lotion bar that I put in deodorant tubes.”
The financial barriers that make it difficult for Banks to pursue her dream full time have an impact on not just her, but on the people who benefit from her product. While some of her creations may enter the houses of folks who shop at Whole Foods or Macy’s, often, people who feel uncomfortable in those spaces purchase from her, too. For many, Banks is their introduction to healthier body care alternatives. For others, she may be their only option. What can financial institutions do, or what can we do as a community, to help Banks scale her business and serve her community without losing her home? How can we create solutions that consider gender, race, class and age?
ENTREPRENEUERSHIP INCLUDES
IDENTITY WORK
The story that entrepreneurship is about self-sacrifice, hard work and pulling oneself up by the bootstraps is only one narrative. For many, entrepreneurship is about community, collaboration, better parenting and so much more. It’s about escaping domestic abuse. It’s about overcoming invisibility. It’s about being recognized as legitimate.
None of this discounts the importance of hard work. But what we must ask ourselves is this: In what ways are we requiring members of our society to work harder? In what ways are we promoting a process that for people who identify as woman, mother, black, mature, single, etc., becomes an insurmountable set of barriers?
We must ask ourselves: How do we as a society impede all our successes by doing this? More importantly, how do our own identities benefit from a system that slows others down?
As Madison strives to become a startup city, looking deeply at how we provide support for entrepreneurs—all entrepreneurs— is crucial. Many of our programs are designed and delivered in ways that—intentionally or unintentionally—shut out people with diverse experiences and needs. When this happens, we miss out on fully realizing the potential that exists in our communities—the creativity and innovation we need to prosper. Moving away from the one-size-fits-all model and developing new and compelling approaches to fostering entrepreneurship puts us ahead of the startup game. It makes us innovators and problem solvers in ways so much of our country has not begun to consider. It requires belief in how much more we can gain from a broader, fuller embrace.
Whether you’re hosting a large business meeting or a festive celebration with superb cuisine, you want an inspired location. As the only AAA Four Diamond Hotel in the region, we offer absolutely everything you need to host a magnificent event, including a backdrop of breathtaking water views. In Madison, this is the place.
EATS
RURAL INDULGENCE
Kick back on the prairie with a home-cooked meal at Campo di Bella, a farm and winery nestled in the foothills of Mount Horeb.
Read more about the farm’s weekly culinary events in this month’s SAVOR, p.48.
FARM FRESH
BY RACHEL WERNER
TRELLISED VINES AND LITTLE LAMBS appear on the horizon on a stroll down the unpaved drive at Campo di Bella—a family-owned and operated farm and winery on the crest of the southern hills flanking Mount Horeb. Owners Mary Ann and Marc Bellazzini first began cultivating their land in 2009 and by 2015, had overhauled their country abode into a picturesque, urban escape for city folk craving an authentic and unique dining experience.
“The initial inspiration for our farm-to-table dinners came from a response to a question posed to CSA members: ‘What else can we offer you each year?’,” recalls Mary Ann. “We initially started off-site in Cross Plains and then moved closer to home in downtown Mount
Horeb for seasonal dinners. When we decided to build the winehouse, we thought it was a perfect time to bring everything ‘on farm’.”
That choice left visitors clamoring for more, so to meet increased demand, the Bellazzini family now offers an a la carte dinner menu on Friday evenings almost year-round, in addition to hosting private events and multi-course Saturday communal meals—complete with wine tastings, highlighted by their signature varietal Fossil Rock Red—during the summer and fall.
“We grow vegetables, fruits, grapes, plus raise heritage breed pork and lamb, which allows us to harvest and cook as much of the food off the farm as we can,” Mary Ann says. “And if you don’t mind the possible triple threat—weather, darkness and rural roads—we are always here on those evenings with a good glass of wine and a great bowl of food.” campodibella.org.
10229 Sharp Road, Mount Horeb.
PHOTOGRAPHED
EATS
AUGUST
PERFORMING ARTS
2 | 7 P.M.
CONCERTS ON THE SQUARE— “BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH”
Concert highlights include Suppe’s “Poet and Peasant Overture,” Dvorák’s Slavonic Dance” Op. 46 No. 4 in F major along with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 during this season’s finale. Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, Madison. wisconsinchamberorchestra.org.
4 | 6:30 P.M.
“A CONVERSATION WITH ASHES”
Written, produced and performed by Cassandra Marzette, this drama investigates the stigma of a life challenged by mental illness, love and spirituality. Bartell Theatre, Madison. bartelltheatre.org.
10-13 | TIMES VARY “RAGTIME”
This tale of early 20th-century America tells the story of three families in pursuit of the American Dream. Middleton Players, Middleton. middletonplayers.com.
11-19 | TIMES VARY
“THE MELANCHOLY PLAY“
Watch a humorous interpretation of an illness: major depression. Depression is serious. Recovery can be disastrous. Or wonderful.
Bartell Theatre, Madison. bartelltheatre.org.
17-19 | TIMES VARY
“FROM AWKWARD SPACES: THE STORY OF THE BARTELL & THE JOURNEY TO PERMANENCE”
An original play about the Bartell Theatre’s history which depicts how six local theater groups united there to create a permanent performance space. Bartell Theatre, Madison. bartelltheatre.org.
1-31 | 8 P.M.
“CAPTURED” PHOTO GALLERY
“Captured” is a series of photographs taken of youth inside the Dane County Juvenile Detention Center. The photos create a visual narrative documenting what racial disparity looks like in present-day Dane County.
Overture Center Gallery II, Madison. overture.org.
4-5 | TIMES VARY
SUGAR MAPLE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Performances, workshops and jam sessions rock this two-day outdoor music festival in a lively celebration of traditional music and dance. Lake Farm County Park, Madison. sugarmaplefest.org.
23 | 7:30 P.M.
BLIND PILOT & GREGORY ALAN ISAKOV
Blind Pilot is a Portland, Oregon-based sextet. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Gregory Alan Isakov has been traveling all his life and uses music to tell his story. Overture Center, Madison. overture.org.
24 | 6 P.M.
FACES OF INCARCERATION— “MILWAUKEE 53206” SCREENING
The film “Milwaukee 53206” is a onehour documentary that chronicles the lives of those affected by incarceration in America’s most incarcerated ZIP code. Overture Center, Madison. overture.org.
30 | 7:30 P.M.
BONNIE RAITT—DIG IN DEEP TOUR 2017
With her 20th album “Dig In Deep,” Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Bonnie Raitt comes out swinging.
Overture Center, Madison. overture.org.
1 | 9 A.M.
YOUTH BEEKEEPING WORKSHOP
Don beekeeping gear and get a close up look at hives and honeybee biology. Then make your own beeswax lip balm and fresh ice cream!
Pack a picnic for your page-turner and head to the gardens for this special summer concert with children’s singersongwriter Ken Lonnquist. Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Madison. olbrich.org.
FAMILY
TAKE TIME TO LEARN, CONNECT AND GROW THROUGH THIS DYNAMIC LUNCHEON SERIES
AUGUST 31, 2017
WHY YOU NEED A DREAM TEAM: AND HOW TO BUILD ONE
with Megan Watt
Do you ever wonder why “successful people” accomplish greatness? Because they surround themselves with supporters to help them reach their goals!
Join us to:
• Learn about the 6 key members of a Dream TeamCheerleader, Industry Insider, Momentum Mover, Connector, Outlier and Rising Star.
• Identify who is already playing these roles for you
• Learn how to fill the gaps and leverage your team to reach your goals
Megan Watt is an innovative speaker, facilitator and career coach who inspires people to take new action in their lives. Megan is chief dream maker of Madison’s Dream Catalyst Lab, where the mission is to inspire others to dream big and tenaciously go after those “Someday Goals” - today!
Jam out to live tunes by The Rhapsody Trio during this eccentric and educational program that also includes poetry, games, trivia and animals. Monona Terrace, Madison. mononaterrace.com.
10-11 | TIMES VARY
“THE LION KING, JR.”
It’s the circle of life! Join Simba and the animal kingdom as he finds courage to take his place on Pride Rock. Overture Center, Madison. ctmtheater.org.
11 | 6 P.M.
PACK’N THE PARK
Enjoy games, food and an outdoor flick post-sunset. McKee Farms Park, Fitchburg. fitchburgchamber.com.
26 | 9:30 A.M.
R.E.A.D. TO THE DOGS
Help your child get back-to-school ready with the help of a furry, four-legged friend. As your child reads to an attentive canine, you’ll see tails wag and confidence rise. DreamBank, Madison. dreamfearlessly.com/dreambank/events.
26 | 11 A.M.
SASSY COW ICE CREAM SOCIAL
3 | TIMES VARY
TROY FARM PIZZA NIGHTS
Nibble on farm-to-table pizzas baked ready-to order as ingredients grown in Troy Community Gardens are deliciously fired over an outdoor oven for a fresh feast. Troy Farm, Madison. communitygroundworks.org.
6 | 3 P.M.
YUM YUM FEST
Hosted by the Madison Area Chefs Network, the 4th annual event is an eclectic mix of food and beverages prepared by 24 restaurants in Dane County . Central Park, Madison. yumyumfest.org.
13 | 10 A.M.
22ND ANNUAL VINTAGE CELEBRATION
Enjoy a day at Botham Vineyards filled with vintage cars, picnicking on the green and outdoor wine service. Botham Vineyards, Barneveld. bothamvineyards.com.
Enjoy Sassy Cow ice cream and meet the dairy farm’s cows and calves on a leisurely wagon ride. Sassy Cow Creamery, Columbus. sassycowcreamery.com.
4-6 | TIMES VARY SOIL SISTERS
Partake in farm-to-table feasts, farm tours and more than 20 culinary events and activities, all led by farming women. Locations vary, Green County. soilsisters. wixsite.com/soilsisters.
4 | 8 P.M.
JOURNEY INTO DARKNESS NIGHT HIKE
Bring the family to explore the darkening world for sounds of the night and learn something new along the way.
Kettle Moraine State Park, Campbellsport. eeinwisconsin.org.
SAVOR
JAUNT
10 | 3:30 P.M.
BART STARR PLAZA TAILGATE PARTY
The party begins three-and-a-half hours before kickoff with tailgate foods and an ‘All You Can Drink” beer, wine and soda bar. Bart Starr Plaza, Green Bay. bartstarrplazatailgateparty.com.
17 | 8 A.M.
13TH ANNUAL BEYOND DESIGN BIKE TOUR
In support of REAP Food Group and Groundwork Milwaukee, Eppstein Uhen Architects hosts a fun day of biking along a scenic Wisconsin route. Starting and ending at The Concord House in Sullivan, choose from 20- to 100-mile courses and end with a meal and a networking event. The Concord House, Sullivan. bdbt.kintera.org.
25-27 | TIMES VARY RIDE ACROSS WISCONSIN
Cycle from the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, traversing 175 miles across the state in one or two days. Locations vary. wisconsinbikefed.org.
THRIVE
3-6 | TIMES VARY 2017 REEBOK CROSSFIT GAMES
The toughest athletes across the nation compete for the title of “Fittest on Earth.” Whether participating, cheering for a friend or merely checking out the competition, this is one sweat fest where you want a front-row seat.
Alliant Energy Center, Madison. alliantenergycenter.com.
10 | 7 P.M. DESIGN NIGHT OUT
Local artists and designers convene in a relaxed and inspiring environment to do what they do best: create! A design topic is presented and an artistic outlet is opened as participants innovate, chat and connect.
Monona Terrace, Madison. mononaterrace.com.
17-24 | TIMES VARY FORWARD FEST
Be inspired by other entrepreneurs to make business dreams a reality during this eight-day event loaded with seminars, networking and interactive programming. Locations vary, Madison. forwardfest.org.
17 | 6:15 P.M.
DREAM BIG: SHIFT:
Join Kimberly Zahasky of Blue River Chiropractic and The Professional Optimist as she takes you through a journey of the mind that will lead to a better life. Learn how to take what life has given you and use it to create something beautiful. DreamBank, Madison. dreamfearlessly. com/dreambank/events.
19 | 7:45 A.M.
MADISON MINI-MARATHON
A half-marathon, 5K and Kids’ Run provide a tour of Madison for runners of every age. And after crossing the finish line, relax to live music at the 14th Mile Post-Race Party on the Union Terrace. Locations vary, Madison. madisonminimarathon.com
19 | 10 A.M.
AGORA ART FAIR
Classic architecture and a stunning landscape provide the perfect setting for this vibrant event. Local and regional artists of nearly every medium showcase their finest works as live music, food and drink vendors and a Children’s Art Yard accentuate the fair. Fitchburg Center, Fitchburg. agoraartfair.com.
21 | 5:30 P.M.
ART + MASS
Sonja Thomsen and physicist Wesley Smith offer a dialogue on art as a lens and tool for exploring and documenting new discoveries in particle physics. MMoCA, Madison. mmoca.org/ARTplus.
25-27 | TIMES VARY
GOOD NEIGHBOR FEST
Enjoy a 5K run/walk, a diaper dash, dunk tank and family-friendly performances during this weekend long festival. Locations vary, Middleton. goodneighborfestival.com.
31 | 6:15 P.M.
DREAM BIG: YOU ARE MORE THAN ENOUGH WITH SHOANA CACHELLE
Empower yourself to find balance in your life, overcome your fears and reclaim your personal power as entrepreneur and philanthropist Shoana Cachelle shares 10 proclamations that allow you to fully live your truth. DreamBank, Madison. dreamfearlessly.com/dreambank/events.
Engineering
(608)
Girl Scouts of Wisconsin, Badgerland Council gsbadgerland.org (608) 237-1158
Kids Express Learning Center kidsexpress.com (608) 845-3245
Kindermusik
MusicalPathways.net (608) 576-6688
Madison Community Montessori School
MadisonCommunityMontessori.org (608) 827-MCMS
MSCR mscr.org (608) 204-3000
Preschool of the Arts PreschooloftheArts.com (608) 233-1707
Walbridge School
Walbridgeschool.org (608) 833-1338
The law firm of von Briesen & Roper, s.c. cares passionately about our profession, our clients and our community. Committed to
Because
MADISON DEVELOPMENT CORP. LORRIE KEATING HEINEMANN, NEW PRESIDENT, ENSURES THERE’S A PATH TO HELP ENTREPRENEURS GET AHEAD.
BY AMY PFLUGSHAUPT NBC 15 NEWS ANCHOR
“WE ALWAYS THOUGHT WOMEN WERE IN CHARGE.”
– Lorrie Keating Heinemann, president, Wisconsin Development Corp.
THE NUMBER OF WOMEN-OWNED businesses is on the rise nationwide, according to the National Association of Women Business Owners, growing oneand-a-half times as much as the national average between 1997 and 2014.
As of 2016, more than nine million women are majority owners of companies across the nation. But in the eyes of Lorrie Keating Heinemann, new president and CEO of the Madison Development Corp., there’s always room for growth.
The agency is a nonprofit providing high-quality affordable housing and financing for hard-to-finance businesses with a focus on empowering women and minorities.
Since 1977, Madison Development Corp. has funded more than 400 companies including Union Cab, Willy Street Coop and PerBlue Entertainment. It has also funded 40 companies through a venture debt fund. Right now, 18 of the agency’s 52 current loans—almost 35 percent—are to women-owned businesses.
Heinemann knows all too well the struggle it takes to be a woman entrepreneur. “I know how hard it was for me to raise money out there,” Heinemann says. “It’s all about giving women this path to entrepreneurship and financing is a critical component. I just feel like when I started my own business, that path wasn’t there. So I’ve been passionate about making sure that path is there for other people.”
Heinemann’s resume is proof there’s a place for women in high-profile positions. From 2003 to 2011, Heinemann was
AUGUST NONPROFIT EVENTS
12 | 8:30 A.M.
OUTRUN ASTHMA!
Participate as a family in the kids’ race or the 5K run to raise money for Madison’s annual asthma camp created to educate under-served elementary children about their asthma, nutrition and exercise. Lot 60, UW-Madison Campus, Madison. outrunasthma.wix.com.
20 | 3 P.M.
MAKESHIFT FESTIVAL
Celebrate the creativity of the visual and culinary arts while appreciating the rich history of Madison’s public spaces during this Madison Parks Foundation community fundraiser. Olbrich Park, Madison. makeshiftfestival.com.
the secretary of the state Department of Financial Institutions under then-Gov. Jim Doyle. She’s currently a member of the Wisconsin Technology Council’s board of directors and co-founded the council’s Wisconsin Angel Network. She recently served as BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation’s vice president. But these positions weren’t handed to her. “I’ve typically been the first woman in every finance job I’ve ever taken,” she says. From a young age, Heinemann had strong support from women who pushed a common theme–education. “My grandmother was the valedictorian at Waunakee High School in 1912. She focused on empowering her daughters with education. My mother graduated in 1939 from the School of Commerce at the UW. And she empowered 12 kids—eight of them are women.” Heinemann jokes that because of that upbringing, “We always thought women were in charge.” Now, she’s doing the same with her four daughters. Her advice to women is exactly the same: Educate yourself. “Take the time to really understand the industry you want to get into. Read the journals, talk to people, get the technical knowledge and then get out there and network with the people who you admire,” Heinemann advises. “Networking is so important in moving forward and opening those doors.”
Learn more about how Madison Development Corp. can help you start your dream business at mdcorp.org.
27 | 11 A.M.
OPTIMISM WALK
Walk to raise funds and awareness of Parkinson’s disease and support the American Parkinson Disease Association’s dual purpose: to ease the burden of caretakers and find a cure. Warner Park, Madison. apdaparkinson.donordrive.com.
Join the movement that saves lives, one step at a time. Enjoy a beautiful morning at the ballpark with your family at the 2017 Madison Heart Walk! Walk with your family, community and the American Heart Association. Donations go toward the American Heart Association’s groundbreaking and life-saving research. Cardiovascular disease takes the lives of one in four Dane County residents every year. You can change that. Join a Heart Walk team at work or with your family. Bring your kids to the Madison Mallards Stadium on September 16 and enjoy plenty of family-friendly and heart-healthy activities!
Saturday, September 16th 8:00 a.m. Festivities Begin | 9:30 a.m. Walk Begins Madison Mallards Stadium, Madison www.MadisonWIHeartWalk.org
2017 Madison Heart Walk
BRAVA NIGHT OUT
JUNE 7 | THE EDGEWATER HOTEL & SPA
More than 75 women participated in a foundation training class led by Dr. Suzanne Alexander and fitness pro Danielle Valvassori. Attendees stretched and mingled on The Edgewater Hotel plaza overlooking Lake Mendota, while sipping complimentary smoothies and sparkling wine. A tour of the Edgewater Spa at sunset concluded this relaxing evening.
SUSAN G. KOMEN FOOTBALL 101
JUNE 14 | CAMP RANDALL
Over 300 women teamed up with the UW-Madison football coaches, wives and players at the eighth Susan G. Komen Football 101 clinic. Over $54,000 was raised—and over $200,000 since the event’s inception—to fund local programs for women and families facing a life-altering breast cancer diagnosis.
A FLORAL FINISH | Frolic among the blooms and pick a bucketful to take home at Mad Lizzie’s Flower Farm. Located in Cross Plains, the farm operates a roadside stand and on-site events throughout the growing season—a tempting reason to squeeze in one last jaunt before summer’s end. madlizzies.com.
JOIN BRAVA FOR THIS ACTION-ORIENTED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP SERIES
SEPTEMBER 27, 2017
INTRAPRENEURSHIP: POWER ENTREPRENEURIAL THINKING WITHIN YOUR ORGANIZATION
with THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES™
Join Megan Boswell and Corrine Neil to learn how to apply an entrepreneurial mindset to your role in your organization—and become an INTRAPRENEUR ! Through collaborative discussions, hands-on activities and guided instruction, you’ll learn:
• How entrepreneurial thinking sparks creativity, fixes problems, builds collaborations and gets things done effectively and efficiently.
• How to chart a course for implementing these strategies in easy and practical ways and make an impact.
THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES™ is an online platform that links and lifts women entrepreneurs, consultants and freelancers by building community and creating an ecosystem for businesses and independents to connect and collaborate on a project-by-project basis. Together Megan and Corrine have 45 years of experience working in corporate environments and as independent consultants.
Registration & Networking | 8-8:45 am • Workshop | 8:45-11:45 am Madison Museum of Contemporary Art | $59 per Workshop
