Women2Women Summer 2016

SUMMER 2016

MAGAZINE

LEAN IN CIRCLES Making Connections

Balancing Work, Life, Play -

for Couples Who Work Together

The Value of Vacations

Sunday, October 16

R E A D I N G H O S P I TA L

ROAD RUN H A L F M A R AT H O N

5K Run • 1–Mile Fun Run/Fitness Walk

EXPERIENCE DOWNTOWN READING’S PREMIER HALF MARATHON, 5K AND 1-MILE FITNESS COURSE! The Friends of Reading Hospital are excited to offer a one-of-akind running experience with the 2016 Reading Hospital Road Run on Sunday, October 16! Participants will enjoy a beautiful scenic course in the city of Reading and Lower Alsace. Additionally, half marathon runners will traverse Mount Penn and sprint past the historic Pagoda as they race for cash prizes and glory!

To register, view course maps, or to find hotel and parking information, visit www.RHroadrun.com.

All proceeds benefit programs funded by The Friends of Reading Hospital including HeartSAFE Berks County.

Contents SUMMER 2016

MAGAZINE

Karen Marsdale, Senior Editor • Danielle Antos, Editor Kristin Golden Mancuso, Associate Editor 201 Penn Street • Suite 501 • Reading, PA 19601 berkswomen2women.com • 610.376.6766

Women2Women Advisory Council Margarita Caicedo, Karen Collins, Valerie Downing, Vicki Ebner, Toni Eckert, Kim Hippert-Eversgerd, Delphia Howze, Bethany Kirkner, Karen Marsdale, Kim Musko, Julia Nickey, Mary Jean Noon, Chiara Renninger, Connie Skipper, Alison Snyder, Tricia Szurgot, Vanessa Wanshop Women2Women, managed by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, encourages women to create connections, gain knowledge, open doors and build strategic alliances, and much more. Our goal is to create more women leaders in Berks County by providing a forum where women from diverse backgrounds can learn, share ideas and mentor each other.

Membership is free and open to all women of Berks County.

Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Women2Know

wORK2LIFE

6 Anne Chubb Takes Increasing

Role in Reading Eagle’s Media Management

30 Balancing Work, Life and Play

for Couples Who Co-Own Businesses

9 Meet the 2016 Athena Award Recipient P. Sue Perrotty

Stay connected: BerksWomen2Women.com Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women Title Investors Penn State Health St. Joseph Wells Fargo Platinum Investors Alvernia University BB&T Boscov’s Department Store, Inc. Penske Truck Leasing Reading Eagle Company Reading Health System Santander Bank Schneider Electric Gold Investors BCTV Baker Tilly Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store Berks County Bar Association Berks County Living Carpenter Technology Corporation Comfort Keepers East Penn Manufacturing Fulton Bank Herbein+Company Highmark BlueShield Lords & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa M&T Bank Meridian Bank National Penn Peritech Home Health Associates, Inc. Reading Dermatology Associates RKL LLP (Reinsel Kuntz Lesher LLP) Sweet Street Tompkins VIST Bank Wyomissing Hair Studio VA Productions The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

For Advertising Opportunities: call 610.685.0914 Ext. 1 Read W2W Magazine Online at BerksWomen2Women.com

Launches Emerging Leaders United

34

ON THE COVER: Lean In Circles

10 Women in Libations 14 Attracting Young Readers

Growth2Go To join: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org

32 United Way of Berks County

18

The Human Aspect of Leadership in Business

20

The Importance of Mentoring

22

The Importance of Buy-Sell Agreements in Partnerships

27

10 Things You Missed at the 5th Annual Women’s Expo

Health2Wellness 38 Vitamin Supplements: Fact or Fiction 42 You and Your Kidneys...For Women 44 The Value of Vacations

28 The Power of Making Connections

In Every Issue 5 23 47

Women2Women Magazine EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Danielle Antos

Editor’s Desk

Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry

W2W Events

Tracie Barrett

Idea Exchange

Sweet Street

Tracy Hoffmann Sara Braun Radaoui Hoffmann Publishing Group

Kristin Golden Mancuso KGM Marketing LLC

© 2016 All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

Women2Women Magazine is published quarterly by Hoffmann Publishing Group, Reading, PA • HoffmannPublishing.com • 610.685.0914 Graphic Designer: Kim Lewis On the Cover: (Left to right, seated): Diane Hitt, President – East Coast

Erosion Blankets; Nina Bohn, President – Illuminate Strategies, LLC; Lenette Wells, Principal – Entech Engineering, Inc.; and Joni Naugle, President – Naugle & Associates, LLC. (Left to right, standing): Lynn Brown, President – LLB Network Consultants, LLC; Tammy Dahms, Group Sales & Marketing Manager – Santander Arena; and Sarah Finney, Complaint Quality Engineer – Alcon Research, Ltd. Cover & Select photos by: Dave Zerbe Studio of Photography

Wendy Kershner Axia Marketing

Kristin Kramer

Wilson School District, Wilson Education Foundation

Britany LaMana Loomis Company

Karen Marsdale

Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Julia Nickey Penn State Health St. Joseph

Connie Skipper

Berks County Intermediate Unit

Melissa Varone Like us at Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women

Reading Public Museum

s

4 Women2Women Summer 2016

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ou may have heard about the Women2Women Lean In Circles – part of the Leadership Development Initiatives through Women2Women. But what exactly is a Lean In Circle? What happens at the monthly meetings? How do the Circles benefit the women involved?

We define a Lean In Circle as a professionally facilitated group of women who come together monthly to learn, grow and support each other in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust. Our Lean In Circles have been a huge success and we want to bring that opportunity to more women in Berks. We currently have four groups, comprising 50 women from many different companies and backgrounds.

In this issue, we wanted to focus on several women who are involved in the program and ask them to share with us how their Circle has impacted them professionally and personally. Read about how women are learning and developing using this non-traditional method. Many have advanced in their careers, overcome challenges in their personal lives or have learned that they are not alone in the situations they face on a daily basis. As a Lean In Circle participant myself, I can attest to the importance of having a group of women who are experienced in many situations and can offer support to challenges that we all face.

As you consider your own growth and development strategy, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Our mission is to grow more leaders in Berks County, and what better way to help accomplish this goal than by learning, connecting and developing together?

Lean In Circle alum Ann Chubb, Chief Operating Officer at the Reading Eagle, shares her story of how she has climbed up the ranks at The Reading Eagle, and the importance of mentors in her life. She also shares with us the exciting world of media management and how this is an increasing role for many women in the industry. Connie Andrews, Senior Director of Marketing at the Reading Eagle tells us how they engage millennials and reach younger readers in our technology-filled world.

Speaking of reaching young people, in the article entitled “The Importance of Mentoring,” you’ll hear about a mentoring relationship that has blossomed from the Chamber’s Young Leadership Conference back in March. A simple lunch has turned into a vital relationship for all involved. You will also read about the importance of making connections in the article “Speaking Up and Helping Out,” by connecting expert Nancy Dunleavy.

Dave Zerbe Studio of Photography

Editor’s Desk

Danielle Antos Editor, Women2Women Magazine

Do you find yourself eating Director of Marketing & Communications at Greater Reading Chamber better and thinking more about of Commerce & Industry how to enjoy a healthier lifestyle in the summer? Part of healthy choices is the mysterious world of vitamins and supplements. We take a look at vitamin myths and facts in this issue. What are the benefits of different supplements, what’s recommended for daily use and what are the dangers of taking too much? Check out the article on page 38 for some great information that will help you navigate the vitamin world for yourself. We also continue our discussion on the Top Ten Threats to Women’s Health with an article on Kidney Disease.

And just because fall is right around the corner…check out the 2016-2017 Women2Women Event Brochure included in this issue.

Mark your calendars and be sure to attend all the great programming we have in store for you! (It’s a pull-out, so hang it up in a visible place and refer to it often – and share with your friends!)

There are so many opportunities for growth and development, great stories from phenomenal women and inspiration, you will want to attend every event All the best,

Danielle Antos

Get Your Own Copy of Women2Women Magazine

Pick one up at any of the locations below while supplies last, or view it online at berkswomen2women.com BOYERTOWN: • Dancing Tree Creations DOUGLASSVILLE: • Lord & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa • My Dad’s Flooring EXETER: • Lord & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa • The Spine & Wellness Center • Martin Appliance FLEETWOOD: • Lord & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa • Simmeria Café and Bistro HAMBURG: • Necessities New & Used Furniture • Gallery of Hamburg

KUTZTOWN: • Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts • Sorrelli Jewelry MORGANTOWN: • Weaver’s Orchard, Inc. OLEY: • Evelyn & Harriette’s READING: • Goggleworks Center for the Arts • Judy’s on Cherry • Double Tree Hotel ROBESONIA: • The Shoppes at Randler’s Village SINKING SPRING: • Charlotte Shoppe • Hair on The Avenue • Lord & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa

SHILLINGTON: • Goodwill Fashion Store TEMPLE: • Riverview Nursery & Garden Center WERNERSVILLE: • Five & Divine WEST READING: • The Compleat Baldwin Brass Center • It’s A Gift! The Woman’s Exchange of Reading • Jan Rae WYOMISSING: • Chamber of Commerce Center for Business Excellence • Wyomissing Hair Studio • Courtyard by Marriott • Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store

berkswomen2women.com 5

Community & Business Profiles, Insights & Highlights

Anne Chubb Takes Increasing Role in Reading Eagle’s Media Management

By Susan Shelly

A

nne Chubb has spent nearly her entire career with the Reading Eagle Company, currently serving as its chief operating officer (COO). As she’s worked her way up the company ladder, she’s learned the importance of persistence, patience, and giving back. Anne Chubb lives by the philosophy of the Golden Rule, and works hard to be kind, respectful, and selfless.

Chubb’s career in media began with a college internship with the newspaper’s advertising department during the 1980s. After graduating, she worked for a few years in broadcast media and retail before returning to the Reading Eagle Company as a retail advertising sales representative. She moved into advertising management in the early 1990s and held various positions with the company. “Through all of those changes it was essential to build strong management teams to support our efforts along the way,” Chubb said.

6 Women2Women Summer 2016

“

My newest position as Chief Operating Officer of the Reading Eagle Company allows me to use my education, experience, and skills to help lead a group of talented and dedicated employees to produce the best products and services to fit our customers’ wants and needs.

”

When Peter Barbey took over as the company’s President and CEO in 2012, Chubb transitioned into product development and marketing, and was named executive director of advertising and marketing in 2015. She was promoted to COO the following year. “Women have been working their way more and more into media management,” Chubb noted. “My newest position as Chief Operating Officer of the Reading Eagle Company allows me to use my education, experience, and skills to help lead a group of talented and dedicated employees to produce the best products and services to fit our customers’ wants and needs.”

Create Your Own Fairy Garden

Career Encouragement Chubb received career encouragement early in life from her father, William Simmons, who was a professor at Temple University in Philadelphia. “He encouraged all of his six children to further their education, which we did,” Chubb explained.

“He was my advisor.”

She credits her mother, Dorothy, with exemplifying emotional intelligence by relating positively to others. “She was practicing that long before it became known as a competency within the workplace,” Chubb said. “My loving parents gave me the tools and encouragement that has helped me grow personally and professionally.”

“We have the Largest Selection of Fairy Garden Merchandise in Berks County!”

-Diane Salks

Experiences Chubb also credited some significant mentors and experiences for helping her achieve success in the workplace. She was mentored during her internship at the Reading Eagle Company

by Walter Woolwine, who was the retail advertising manager at the time. She gained another somewhat unlikely mentor in 1995 when she began participating with other Reading Eagle employees in the Y.E.S. Mentor Program in conjunction with the Reading School District. She was partnered with 10-year-old Travis Branch, then a fifth-grader at Lauer’s Park Elementary School, forming a bond that continues today.

2 01 5

Women2Women She also credits her participation in the Women2Women Lean In Circle. The goal of this program, managed by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, is to grow more women leaders in Berks County. Ann credits her Circle with helping to increase her confidence while connecting with other women in senior management positions. “I connected with other business mentors and leaders within the community, and was able to share my own professional experiences with the group, as well as learn from those who had different and broader experiences than me,” Chubb recalled. “We all played the roles of mentors and mentees.”

Continued on page 8

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“Some 20 years later we remain friends and have become mentors to each other, both personally and professionally,” Chubb said.

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Women2Know

Chubb’s Mantra: Thought by thought and action by action , our true character is defined and our destiny determined.

Advice to Women Chubb’s advice to other women is to focus on strengthening skills that are necessary for positions that you seek, and to not be overly concerned about having to prove yourself. “Anticipate obstacles, and decide whether you need to work through them or be prepared to make a change,” she advised.

Because professionals – both women and men – who juggle work with home and personal responsibilities face many challenges, it’s important to stay connected with others and be able to share your thoughts and concerns. “Time and energy are always on our wish lists,” Chubb said. “Schedule a date with a friend that you trust and share your thoughts and be there to listen. It’s an awesome feeling.” She also advised women should find a balance between work and down time; find time to spend with family and friends.

Chubb is working on that balance herself, looking to schedule more vacation time with her husband, Ken. She loves spending time with her daughter, Kelly, son-in-law, Scott, and 10-month-old granddaughter, Riley. Recalling the support she received from her parents, Chubb worked hard to guide Kelly as she was growing up. “I tried to guide and support her through her education and professional years, and now I’m looking forward to watching her do the same thing for Riley,” Chubb said.

As she continues in her long and successful career with the Reading Eagle Company, Chubb tries to keep a phrase that’s hung on her office wall foremost in her mind: Thought by thought and action by action, our true character is defined and our destiny determined.

“That phrase helps to keep me grounded, so I think about it often,” Chubb said. “I guess you could say it’s my mantra.”

Hope Is Here

HealthSouth Reading Rehabilitation Hospital At HealthSouth, never before has knowledge, technology and teamwork merged so completely to inspire those facing personal journeys of rehabilitation after an illness, injury or surgery. HealthSouth is committed to making a difference for patients and families by developing personalized programs that target patient goals, overcome challenges and embrace progress with refreshing optimism.

With HealthSouth by your side, there is hope to reach your goals and get back home, expanding a horizon full of possibilities. For some, it’s the first glimmer of light. For others, it’s a powerful reminder that with HealthSouth, hope for renewed independence is never far away.

A Higher Level of Care®

1623 Morgantown Road • Reading, PA 19607 610 796-6000 healthsouthreading.com 8 Women2Women Summer 2016

©2013:HealthSouth Corporation:598027

Women2Know

Meet the 2016 Athena Award Recipient P. SUE PERROTTY

T

“We trusted the LASIK experts. And our doctors were awesome!”

— ACTUAL LASIK PATIENTS

he 2016 Athena® Leadership Award was presented at the 5th Annual Women2Women Spring Renewal Expo on April 26th.

Sue Perrotty retired from banking in 2002 after a 27-year career in the industry, most recently as executive vice president and head of global operations for First Union Corporation, as a member of the Office of the Chairman in Charlotte, N.C.

Following retirement from banking, Sue served as Chief of Staff to First Lady of Pennsylvania Judge Marjorie Rendell from 2003 through 2007. Sue is the CEO and Owner of AFM Financial Services and BAC Services and currently serves as an independent consultant to several small businesses and entrepreneurs in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area. She also serves on several Boards for American Realty Capital related entities.

Sue currently serves as Investment Committee Chair for the Berks County Community Foundation Board, sits on the Board of Philadelphia Hospitality and was named Emerita Trustee in October 2015, in addition to being Chair of the Development Committee for the Girl Scouts of Eastern PA Board. In the past she has served on the Boards of both PAL of Reading and PAL of Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute, GPUAC, Our City Reading, Caron Foundation Philadelphia Advisory Board, Pennsylvania Stage Company, the Church Capital Value Trust family of mutual funds, Chair of the Olivet Boys and Girls Club Community Advisory Board and GSEP’s 2012 Take the Lead Committee.

Thinking about LASIK? Insist on the LASIK experts.

Dr. Adam Altman and Dr. Jonathan Primack have a combined 36 years of LASIK experience and are the area’s only Board-Certified and Cornea Fellowship-Trained LASIK specialists. They are also the most experienced in Berks County with Bladeless Custom LASIK —performed in the on-site laser suite in their Wyomissing surgery center. That’s experience you can trust. So if you’re thinking about LASIK, insist on Drs. Altman and Primack at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania.

Call 610-378-8500 for a FREE evaluation.

Learn more at LASIKdoneRight.com.

She has received numerous awards for community leadership and professional accomplishments including the Pa. 50 Best Women in Business, the Franciscan Award from Alvernia University, the Albright College Distinguished Alumni Award, the Women of Distinction award from the March of Dimes, Take the Lead Award from the Girl Scouts, and the 2006 Champion of Youth Award from Olivet Boys & Girls Club. In 2009 she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Law Degree from Albright College.

She is a 1975 graduate of Albright College with a BS in Economics and currently resides in Reading, with her husband, Craig, and son, Nicholas. Congratulations Sue!

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Women2Know

Women in Libations

T

By Kristin Kramer, Public Information & WEF Director, Wilson School District

he rich history of our region includes that of breweries and wineries. This tradition continues today where throughout Berks and our neighboring county you can tour several locally owned and operated wineries and breweries. While it may sound glamourous to work in one of these industries, it’s not all about imbibing and socializing. It takes dedication and hard work! We hear from three local women who have made a career in the world of libations.

For the Love of Wine

What stemmed from her husband’s hobby has now become a full-time job for Tracy Smith, co-owner and event organizer for Ridgewood Winery, LLC in Birdsboro. Her husband Bill loved the physics and chemistry of creating wines. Winemaking was also in Tracy’s family’s roots. “Growing up, my sister and I picked grapes for our grandfather. We didn’t know they were for wine,” Tracy shared. “In our family, when you are of drinking age, grandpa would give you a jug of who knows what kind of homemade wine,” she said. “My husband was determined to duplicate my grandfather’s recipes.”

William Smith and Tracy Smith

By continued trial and error, Bill began perfecting the art of wine making! “As people would come over to our house, Bill would ask for their input about the wine whether it was too sweet or too dry.”

What is the most challenging aspect?

In 2008, Bill entered an amateur winemaking competition and won grand champion. In 2009, his wine had the same results.

“The judges told him, ‘You are not amateur.’ Offers were made to buy his recipes. We had a decision whether or not to sell or go commercial on our own.” Tracy and Bill chose the latter, and dove into the full-time world of wine making.

Advice for working with your spouse:

The Smith’s purchased Ridgewood Farmstead and in 2014 they received their license and opened their winery. Tracy left behind the corporate world working at Vanguard Investments in Malvern. “I retired in October of last year and I haven’t looked back,” she said.

In their business, Bill makes the wine and takes care of federal and state regulations. Tracy handles the marketing, staffing, building care and events, which includes coordinating private parties and weddings at the winery. Tracy shared more insight into her role at Ridgewood:

What is the best part about your job?

I love meeting new people and coordinating events. I also love the history of the house, which is a Nationally Registered Historic Site and was a stop on the Underground Railroad.

10 Women2Women Summer 2016

Trying to keep product on the shelf – it is good problem that our wine is selling well, but it is still a problem and working with your spouse brings challenges. It is tough to have a work-life balance. We try not to talk about business when we are at home.

Don’t over step your boundaries and realize and respect each other strengths. I don’t tell him how to make wine and he tries not to tell me how to manage the other aspects of our business.

What is something you think people might not know or realize about working in the wine industry?

That it is actually a job working long hours and we don’t get to drink wine all day.

Ridgewood Winery, LLC

2039 Philadelphia Ave, Birdsboro 484-509-0100 | ridgewoodwinery.com Hours: Thursdays & Fridays: 4:30-8pm; Saturdays: 12-8pm; Sundays 12-6pm.

Creating a New Niche in Wine Andrea Folino was a real estate agent and interior designer. She already had a working relationship with her husband Marco, who builds homes. While attending an interior design conference in New York City, she stumbled upon a magazine with a story about a husband and wife who opened a vineyard and winery. “It sparked an idea and I said to Marco, ‘I want to do this!’”

The Folino family had 54 acres in Kutztown that Andrea’s fatherin-law had purchased in 2000. The plan was to build homes on the property. Unfortunately, due to township and environmental regulations, the development was not able to proceed. Instead, something else came to fruition – Folino Estate Vineyard & Winery.

Andrea and Marco contacted a vineyard consultant who tested the land – and the results were positive. “Initially we considered selling the grapes. The more we thought about it, we decided to invest in the winery business,” explains Andrea.

The Folinos enjoyed visiting wineries in Berks and beyond. Andrea realized there was a void in the marketplace. “My husband grew up in the restaurant industry, and we wanted to set ourselves apart from other wineries, so we added a restaurant.” When planning their wedding in 2010, they visited a winery in New Jersey. Thinking back on that experience inspired Andrea to also add event space to their winery.

In the spring of 2014, they planted 3,000 vines. They broke ground in 2015 and that spring they planted another 8,000 vines.

The winery and restaurant officially opened to the public in November 2015.

Marco and Andrea’s roles in their business overlap. “Initially I was going to handle the gift shop, sales and marketing. Marco was going to serve more as the general manager and oversee staff. But there are so many aspects to the business. If a server doesn’t show up, I am taking orders. If the dishwasher is sick, Marco is washing dishes. We just step in to ensure everything runs smoothly.”

So who makes your wine? We were fortunate to

have met an amazing wine maker from Adams County, Michael Vorauer. He is the perfect fit for us! We knew the area calls for sweet wine, but we wanted to accommodate varying pallets.

We focus on old-world European styles. We started with five wines and now we have close to 20 and we continue to expand. Our signature wine is a bold red blend called Lorenzo Forte. Lorenzo is our son’s name and forte means “strong.”

Continued on page 12

berkswomen2women.com 11

Women2Know What is the best part about your job?

The creative aspect of the industry from the labels on the bottles to the actual recipes. I typically create the recipe for our sangria of the month. We also offer mixed drinks that incorporate wine. In the winter, we had a red wine hot chocolate. I also love hosting the weddings and see the bride as she walks down the aisle. It is very rewarding to be able to provide a venue for a couple’s special day!

Most challenging part of your business? This place is my heart and

soul. When people leave unhappy and I read about it later on social media, I take that very hard. I am open to constructive criticism to improve our business. If I don’t have the opportunity to improve the experience for someone before they leave, and learn about it later, that is difficult for me.

When did you realize this venture was a success?

One day, I arrived in the afternoon and I noticed license plates from Virginia, New Jersey and New York. It was so exciting! I love the opportunity to meet all these guests. We have a unique business model which is attracting visitors.

Folino Estate Vineyard & Winery

340 Old Route 22, Kutztown 484-452-3633 | folinoestate.com Hours: Wednesdays & Thursdays: 11am-8pm; Fridays & Saturdays: 11am-9pm; Sundays: 10am-5pm

Andrea Folino

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All in the Family!

Berks’ resident Wendy Yuengling has a familiar family last name. It is that of our country’s oldest brewery. Wendy’s great, great, great grandfather David G. Yuengling emigrated from Germany and settled in Pottsville where in 1829 he established Eagle Brewery. In 1873, the name changed to D.G. Yuengling & Son when David’s son Frederick became a partner. “Growing up, I really didn’t think seriously about a career at the brewery. When I was young, my dad didn’t work for the family business.” He owned a beer distributorship in town so I spent my early years there.” Her father Dick Yuengling bought the brewery in 1985 and she spent her high school and college summers working there.

Wendy attended Lehigh University in Bethlehem where she received a B.S. in Marketing. She began her career in market research at a firm in Fairfield, NJ. She took an advertising position in Baltimore. “I learned a tremendous amount working for other companies,” said Wendy. She worked there for several years before she decided to move back to Pennsylvania. Having had the chance to pursue her own career path and gain experience working in other industries, she decided to join the family business in 2004.

Wendy currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer of Yuengling Brewery and is involved with finance, human resources, IT, and sales and marketing.

What is your perspective as a woman working in the brewing industry, which seems to be male-dominated?

I honestly don’t think twice about it. I’m one of four daughters that are part of the sixth generation. We work side-by-side mostly male counterparts, but we work just as hard and we really aren’t treated any differently. It’s great to see more women entering the beer business, and in many ways, they’re very effective at selling and managing in this industry.

What is the best part about your job?

Since it’s a family business, it really doesn’t feel like a job. My sisters and I have an incredible opportunity to be a part of a long-standing family business, and to keep it strong and growing beyond the sixth generation. We all have a tremendous amount of pride and respect for what the people in the organization have done over the years to get us to this point as well as respect for my dad and our ancestors who kept the business going and in the family for 187 years. They survived though some very challenging times. That puts everything we now do in perspective. It challenges me to see the bigger picture and ensure a long-term view of the business.

Dad and sisters in front of the old brewery (Left to Right: Jennifer, Sheryl, Dick, Wendy and Debbie).

What is the most challenging?

Our industry is pretty dynamic and changing rapidly with the increase in competition, and also consolidation and regulation. We now compete with over 4,200 breweries in the U.S., compared to around 100 when my dad bought the business in 1985. Trends continue to change, and consumers are very well educated about the variety of beers. Our story as America’s Oldest Brewery resonates with drinkers young and old. We are an American success story that is built on quality and tradition. We’re still very deeply rooted in PA, and we’re committed to remaining an American-owned and family-operated brewery. I think that authenticity is important to people.

Yuengling Brewery

501 Mahantongo St, Pottsville 570-628-4890 | yuengling.com Gift Shop Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-4pm; Saturdays: 10am-3pm. Call for tour times.

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Women2Know

Attracting Young Readers

T perspective.

Women in Media Connie Andrews, Sr. Director of Marketing Compiled by Women2Women Magazine

14 Women2Women Summer 2016

he Reading Eagle is evolving the methods they use to reach and engage readers. Connie Andrews, Senior Director of Marketing, shares her

1) The Reading Eagle has been the source for news in Berks County forever!

As younger news consumers enter the market, how do you reach them?

Promoting literacy is one of the primary missions of Reading Eagle Company. We welcome and encourage readers of any age to look at our newspaper. For readers between the ages of 4 through 9 years old, we publish The Mini Page every Monday. The Mini Page is themed each week with a topic of interest to young readers. Subscribers tell us that they sit with their children or grandchildren and do The Mini Page together.

Teachers often are looking for non-fiction reading for their students. The Reading Eagle is a great source for non-fiction reading and it provides students with civic awareness.

Through the Reading Eagle’s Newspaper in Education Program, teachers can obtain newspapers for their students at no cost.

Thanks to sponsorships by area businesses and individual donations by Reading Eagle subscribers, we are able to place an average of 3,400 newspapers into area K-12 classrooms each school day.

Voices is a section for teens that is published every Tuesday in the Reading Eagle.

The stories are written by area students in grades 9 through 12. Stacie Jones is the editor.

The publication gives high school students a voice in the community. The teens tackle tough subjects such as the environment and topics that can be fun such as getting ready for the prom.

To give our high school students even more of a voice in the community, WEEU 830 AM, a division of Reading Eagle Company, hosts a show every Saturday at 10 a.m. called “Radio Voices.” On that show, host Nick Lawrence leads a discussion with a panel of area high school students.

Our specialized products for students help introduce young readers to our daily newspaper. After high school, it is our hope that our young readers move from the student products to the main newspaper. To capture that younger audience, Page 2 of our Life section is designed to present entertainment news and features in a quick, fun way. The daily page includes a column called My 2¢. The column is written by our millennial news reporters. Our young writers address topics in a light, often entertaining way. Although fun, most times the columns have a poignant message delivered from a young person’s point of view.

The Weekend section, published on Thursdays, is another way we encourage young readers to engage with our newspaper.

The section highlights the area’s weekend activities. Weekend contains news and advertising of great places to go and eat in Berks County.

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2) Do you conduct research to understand readers’ interests?

If so, through what methods?

The Reading Eagle realizes that the needs and interests of our readers shift based on changes in the economy and current technology trends. We assess the interests of our readers by using both small-scale and large-scale methods. Before launching a new product or moving coverage into a new area, the Reading Eagle often will conduct focus groups to engage the community. The groups are comprised of about two dozen individuals, many of them community leaders.

For a more extensive and scientific look at the Berks County area, the Reading Eagle will contract the services of a professional market research firm.

Continued on page 16 berkswomen2women.com 15

Women2Know 3) What efforts, actions and steps do you (and Reading Eagle) take to stay relevant?

We stay relevant by continuing to provide a quality news product, whether that news is delivered in print, on readingeagle.com or our mobile app. We are a credible source for news and advertising information in our community. News and advertising are the core products of Reading Eagle. While our delivery methods may change as technology changes, the quality of our news and advertising is what keeps us relevant and in demand.

For the past four years, the Reading Eagle newsroom won the Sweepstakes Award, meaning it achieved the highest point total among newspapers of its size in the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association’s Keystone Press Awards.

The Reading Eagle was the recipient of the prestigious Inland Press Association Community leadership Award in 2013 and 2014.

Our advertising and marketing departments also share in the awards spotlight. At the 2016 Interstate Advertising Managers Association (IAMA) Tearsheet Competition, the Reading Eagle brought back 11 awards. That was more than any other newspaper recognized at the IAMA conference.

4) How do you ensure you reach readers who want the latest news NOW? We use technology to extend our news reach to those who prefer staying updated on the go. Breaking news can be found on readingeagle.com along with other features, such as news videos.

We have a mobile app and maintain a presence on the popular social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

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16 Women2Women Summer 2016

Readers can sign up for the Reading Eagle Top Stories e-newsletter – a daily email that includes links to the day’s top stories. For instant updates on traffic and breaking news, readers can sign up for email alerts. The news is delivered right to the person’s inbox.

OnTap is our daily e-newsletter that is geared toward entertainment topics and events in our area.

For our subscribers who leave town for business or vacation but want to stay up to date on Berks County happenings, we have the Reading Eagle e-edition. The e-edition is an exact replica of the printed newspaper and can be accessed anywhere.

Even though we live in this age of electronic devices and social media, residents of Berks County continue to support our printed newspaper. Our printed newspaper remains our strongest asset.

5) Our readers are interested to know what impact, if any, the 2015 acquisition of the Village Voice – another news legend – will have on the Reading Eagle’s strategy or thoughts about how to broaden the reach of the paper. Can you elaborate on this?

Reading Eagle Company is owned by members of its founding family. Peter D. Barbey is one of those members. He is Reading Eagle Company’s president and chief executive officer.

Barbey’s investment company, Black Walnut Holdings, purchased the Village Voice in New York City. Reading Eagle Company did not acquire, nor does it own the Village Voice. The relationship between the Reading Eagle and Village Voice is that of a client/customer. That partnership will serve to strengthen both newspapers financially.

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Reading Eagle Company has taken steps in the past few years to expand into areas beyond Berks County. We have expanded news coverage and advertising efforts in Pottstown and the TriCounty region.

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Growth2Go /

Finance, Mentoring & Education

The Human Aspect of Leadership in Business

A

By Elaine McDevitt, CEO, The Rose Corporation

recent article by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) states that nearly every industry across the country is suffering from a leadership crisis. Having people in lead positions who are not properly trained can be disastrous for employees and the organization.

Enter Dr. Nora Maidansky. Having earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Drexel University, Dr. Maidansky worked in senior technical and consulting positions in the computer and communications industries for over 20 years. Throughout that time, she became more and more interested in the “human side” of the highly technical work environment. So much so, that she went back to school earning her Master of Arts in Psychology and Doctor of Psychology degrees from Widener University. She hung her shingle and began work in the field of psychology, giving the name The Human Aspect to her practice.

18 Women2Women Summer 2016

According to Dr. Maidansky, one of the most difficult barriers for new leaders is understanding that knowing what needs to be accomplished and having the authority to do it is not enough. “The main issue for many leaders is how to get the people to do what they want them to do,” she said. To address this important area of business leadership,

Dr. Maidansky uses executive assessment, coaching, and team development approaches.

Executive Assessment for pre-hire purposes goes far beyond resumes, basic interviews, and references. Hiring senior level leaders can be costly yet we all know that a bad hire only costs more and delays the company from moving forward.

Dr. Maidansky uses custom assessment batteries which include in-depth interviews and standardized tests to assist organizations in executive selection. This approach creates a more objective selection process, improves

1

the match between candidates’ personalities and organizational needs, increases job satisfaction and retention and reduces ramp up time. Executive assessment can also be used to identify employees with high leadership potential and to evaluate key personnel for strengths and developmental needs. And it can provide insight needed for successful executive coaching.

Dr. Maidansky considers Executive Coaching to be one of the most powerful approaches for developing talent. Using a structured but individually tailored plan focused on the client’s needs, this kind of one-on-one coaching helps to bring leaders’ strengths into the foreground and teach them to manage their shortcomings.

“My approach is to, first and foremost, help them achieve insight into their personality and behavior,” she said. “Once they do, it does not cease to amaze me how quickly they can make a change. I am only there to support and provide feedback.”

2

Growth2Go What are the general costs of your work to employers and how do companies measure What type of positions do you their return on investment? work with to develop most?

“The coaching is effective because unlike area are using individual development and classroom learning, the client is coached leadership skills training to improve culture, in his or her own workplace setting and in employee morale and retention. the context of his or her current position.

It provides an opportunity to try out and further modify new behaviors based on how well they fit his or her environment,” explained Dr. Maidansky.

In smaller companies I work mostly with Team Development helps team the C-suite executives, such as presidents members to understanding and appre- and CEOs. The funny thing about CEOs is ciate team strengths, clarify member that they are usually happy with themselves roles, reduce unnecessary conflict, understand and think the cause is elsewhere! In large group dynamics, improve cohesiveness in corporations and non-profits, I have worked decision making, and bring alignment of with vice-presidents, directors, and senior individual and organizational goals. managers.

3

What makes a great leader?

It is having a skill to get others to adapt their goals and work hard toward those goals.

Great leaders take the time to understand others’ perspective and can control their own emotions in order to communicate in ways that will not create a negative impact.

What advice can you offer to those who are looking for a higher level position?

ROI can be measured in higher productivity, improved employee morale, reduced turnover, improved retention, or perhaps higher company rating on Glassdoor reviews.

I provide a range of services at varying costs.

An engagement can run anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tenths of thousands, depending on the time commitment and number of participants. A typical pre-hire assessment for a senior management position is around $6,500.

What kind of feedback do you get after the testing or train- What surprises you ing is complete from both most about individuals in employers and the individleadership positions? uals with whom you work?

Some clients are really impressed with an insight they get from the assessment part of the program. Others are amazed how their own behavior change can permeate down and affect the behavior of their subordinates.

The bosses have reported noticeable positive difference in the coachee’s behavior even before the coaching is complete.

I was surprised to learn how many companies were started here in Berks County and how many people simply go out and create great companies out of nothing but hard work and desire to do so.

Higher level positions demand not only more business and technical skills, but also better interpersonal, intrapersonal, and leadership skills. Individuals in these positions are often challenged with delegation of responsibilities and holding people accountable, self-control and patience, non-defensiveness I help the team members to connect team and listening skills. To do well, one has to have and individual goals, communicate better, the courage to face his or her shortcomings create more synergy and more reliance on and willingness to address them. their teammates.

How do you affect change with teams?

How are companies using these types of services in our area?

Many companies in our area struggle to find a qualified workforce. One way to fill open positions is to hold on to people you already have, i.e. reduce turnover. In many ways, employee retention is all about company culture. And the culture is created by the company leaders. The companies in our

Dr. Nora A. Maidansky Business Management Consultant The Human Aspect LLC 4 Park Plaza 204A Wyomissing, PA 19610 Phone: 484-706-9491 www.humanaspectllc.com

berkswomen2women.com 19

Growth2Go

THE

By Jennifer Seelig, First Priority Bank

Importance OF Mentoring

By Jennifer Seelig, Customer Relations Manager, First Priority Bank

I

n a professional setting, most women understand how important and necessary it is to have a mentor.

Without one, you are travelling up a river without a paddle or a life jacket. You can have different mentors in your life, serving difference purposes. You can have one for professional situations and one for your personal life. You never know when someone is going to take on this role in your life, but sometimes you become lucky enough that they are placed right in front of you! In addition, if you are looking for a mentor, don’t be shy… ask someone who you admire or who has set great examples for you. You may be surprised how thrilled they would be to take on this role. Mentors can help you navigate difficult work situations or help you leverage your skills to gain a promotion. Mentors can also work as advocates (sponsors) to help boost you to the next level in your career.

Mentoring relationships are also very important for young people. Influencing

20 Women2Women Summer 2016

young people to stay in school, exposing them to the different career paths available or just having conversations with them about the importance of building relationships can make a huge difference in their lives. During the Greater Reading Chamber’s Leadership Conference in March, I was exposed to this very situation.

I happened to be volunteering as a lunch mentor at the Leadership Conference and by chance sat with Toni Miller, Senior Executive Vice President, CFO, Chief Administrative Officer at Boscov’s Department Stores. As lunch mentors, we sat at a table with two young ladies, Yomari and Miryadi, both from Reading High School. Our table was very conversational; we chatted about school, hobbies, summer plans and the like. We also talked about how important it is to do what you say you are going to do. Following through on commitments and promises that you make is not only important personally, but will help immensely in the workplace as well.

We got on the subject of the Prom and the girls spoke casually about the possibility of going, and how they didn’t have or need dates, but that it might be fun to attend. We decided to invite them for a fun evening of shopping and dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Reading (the girls had mentioned that they had never been there). Toni insisted this would happen, and she told the girls that she never goes back on a promise. She even made us “pinky swear” that we would all go together!

As I often say, “If you’re going to talk the talk, then you better walk the walk,” and Toni surely did just that. At the end of the luncheon, email addresses were exchanged, and at this point I was just honored to be at the table, seeing the look of disbelief on the girls’ faces. I couldn’t wait to be a part of this experience!

One Saturday in May, we all met at Boscov’s, bringing back memories to me of when I was in high school, on the hunt for prom dresses! The fashion show began in the dressing room, and when the

giggling stopped and final decisions were made, it was time to shop for shoes and accessories. We then headed to the DoubleTree. After dinner, we had a photo session in the lobby, and we even got a “selfie” lesson from the girls! Fast forward a few weeks, and it was finally Prom night. Toni and I were both invited to see them off for the evening. We watched her get pictures taken and saw the joy on the faces of her mother and brother as they looked at their sister so beautifully and elegantly dressed for her big night.

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This experience has taught me that if you have the opportunity to touch someone’s life in a positive manner, even in the slightest capacity, you can make a big difference. In Toni’s case, it was important for her to be a mentor for the young women so that their future is as bright as possible, and to inspire them to become mentors themselves in the future.

As for me, I believe mentoring at any age is important.

Being a positive, energetic, and honest role model will help to develop the skill set young people need to be successful not only at school and in their future professions, but in life as well.

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berkswomen2women.com 21

Growth2Go

The Importance of

Buy-Sell Agreements in Partnerships

By Brittany LaMana, Account Executive, The Loomis Company

C

ongratulations! You have the sign out, the lights on, and the doors open for your new business. The customers are coming in and the cash flow is starting. It looks like that idea you had to go into business for yourself (or with a partner) is going to be a success!

But, in the blink of an eye, it could all change: a debilitating sickness, accident, or unexpected death could occur. What happens to the business now? Would it survive? Who would run it? Does a new partner step in your place? What happens when creditors start calling to collect on your loans?

CPA

Insurance Professional

The CPA uses several accounting methods to determine the actual value of your business.

Things that are used are: good will; cash flow; receipts; debts; buildings; vehicles; equipment.

This helps with the IRS and binds the family members to these values. Re-evaluate every year to make sure your plans are still fulfilled.

Your insurance professional will make recommendations for the type of insurance to be used as the funding vehicle to provide cash at the time it is needed most. Review every year to ensure it is in line with the current value of the business.

Attorney

Family

The most important part of this whole The attorney draws up a legal document on process is to involve your family. Let them how to transfer the business to a partner, know what is going on every step of the agreed to by the owners as well as family way. This will help eliminate surprises. members. This binds everyone to the actions You didn’t plan for the business to fail, set forth in the business will. The business Below is a schematic showing how a but you failed to set up a succession plan will states how things are distributed or typical partnership would use life insurance or business will. By taking the time in the transferred based on death, disability, or to fund a buy-sell agreement. There are early stages of growing your business to retirement and the actions to be taken. It other options for different types of busidiscuss your hopes and fears about what also will take emotions out of the equation ness entities, so contact your professional happens next with family and professional because everything was agreed upon in advisors for their recommendations. advisors, you can start building a buy-sell advance. Review every year to ensure it is still plan. By having these discussions, every- in line with the current value of the business. one knows your wishes and what is to happen to the business if something were to happen to the business’s most important asset – you!

Nondeductible Life Insurance Premiums Succession planning alleviates the stress of making business Partner A decisions away from of your $250,000 Life Insurance Policy Insured: Partner B family when they need it the Owner: Partner A Cross Purchase Buy-Sell most. Here’s how the plan Insurance Beneficiary: Partner A Agreement works: Company ($500,000 Partnership) Nondeductible Life Insurance Premiums

Partner B $250,000 Life Insurance Policy Insured: Partner A Owner: Partner B Beneficiary: Partner B

22 Women2Women Summer 2016

2016

2017

HAPPENINGS Women2Women, managed by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, encourages women to create connections, gain knowledge, open doors and build strategic alliances, and much more. Our goal is to create more women leaders in Berks County by providing a forum where women from diverse backgrounds can learn, share ideas and mentor each other.

To join Women2Women, email: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org Plus, stay connected at: BerksWomen2Women.com • Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women • Linkedin: Berks Women2Women Group

LAUNCH EVENT!

Women2Women is pleased to partner with Berks Women in Crisis (BWIC) in presenting our Keynote Speaker, Elizabeth Smart!

Keynote Speaker, Elizabeth Smart Date: Thursday, October 6, 2016 Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location: The Crowne Plaza Reading Cost: $50/person (includes heavy hors d’oeuvres) The abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time. Surviving, and now thriving as an advocate, Elizabeth show us that it is possible not only to overcome extreme adversity and take control of your future, but also to light the way for others.

Elizabeth was abducted on June 5, 2002. Her captors proceeded to control her by threatening to kill her and her family if she tried to escape. Fortunately, after being held prisoner for nine months, the police safely returned Elizabeth to her family on March 12, 2003. Through this traumatic experience, she has become an advocate for change related to child abduction, recovery programs and national legislation. Elizabeth triumphantly testified before her captor and the world about the very private nightmare she suffered during her abduction, which led to conviction.

Elizabeth is currently involved in the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, and she has helped promote the national AMBER Alert, the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act, and other safety legislation to help prevent abductions.

Elizabeth’s abduction and recovery has motivated and continues to motivate parents, law enforcement and leaders worldwide to focus on children’s safety. She uses her story to emphasize the importance of everyday people in finding missing children and the belief that there is always hope and we can never stop searching for each and every missing child. Elizabeth’s past and present are a powerful testament to the fact that that it is possible to overcome extreme adversity and take control of your future.

berkswomen2women.com 23

Women2Know Speaker Series Women2Know is a speaker series featuring notable inspiring women who want to share their life lessons and stories of hope and triumph. We invite you to register for any or all of our Women2Know events as unique networking opportunities, while gaining insight from these dynamic women.

P. Sue Perrotty Date: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 Location: Crowne Plaza Reading Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Cost: $22/person Sue Perrotty retired from banking in 2002 after a 27-year career in the industry, most recently as executive vice president and head of global operations for First Union Corp., as a member of the Office of the Chairman in Charlotte, N.C.

Constance Morrison CEO of Home Health Care Management, Inc. Date: Tuesday, December 6, 2016 Location: Stokesay Castle Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Cost: $22/person Constance has been the President and CEO of Home Health Care Management, Inc. since July 2015. HHCM is the parent organization to Advantage Home Care, Berks VNA, and Pottstown VNA. Morrison has created a new strategic plan that involves increasing already high quality ratings and building better relationships within the community.

As a veteran and an accomplished professional in the home and health care field, Morrison has a proven record of growth and positive change in home health organizations.

For nearly 22 years, Morrison proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserve as a physician assistant, retiring in July 2011.

Following retirement from banking, Sue served as Chief of Staff to First Lady of Pennsylvania Judge Marjorie Rendell from 2003 through 2007. Sue is the CEO and Owner of AFM Financial Services and BAC Services and currently serves as an independent consultant to several small businesses and entrepreneurs in the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area. She also serves on several Boards for American Realty Capital related entities.

She has received numerous awards for community leadership and professional accomplishments including the PA 50 Best Women in Business, the Franciscan Award from Alvernia University, the Albright College Distinguished Alumni Award, the Women of Distinction award from the March of Dimes, Take the Lead Award from the Girl Scouts, and the 2006 Champion of Youth Award from Olivet Boys & Girls Club. In 2009 she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Law Degree from Albright College. She was also the 2016 Athena Award winner in Berks County.

The Honorable Marjorie O. Rendell Date: Tuesday, June 6, 2017 Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location: The Doubletree by Hilton Cost: $22/person Midge Rendell is a federal judge in the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Philadelphia. She practiced as an attorney for 20 years as a partner at the Philadelphia firm of Duane, Morris & Heckscher, where she focused her practice on bankruptcy and commercial litigation. In 1994, she was appointed

by President Bill Clinton and confirmed by the Senate to serve as a judge for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

In 1997, she was once again nominated

by President Clinton and confirmed by the Senate, this time for the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. She assumed senior status on July 1, 2015, but continues to manage a full caseload. In 1993, Rendell founded Avenue of the Arts, Inc., and was a founding member of The Board of Directors of The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Rendell served as the First Lady of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania during her husband Ed Rendell’s tenure as governor from 2003 to 2011.

LEAN IN CIRCLES: WANT TO UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL? JOIN A LEAN IN CIRCLE!

A Lean In Circle is comprised of 12 to 14 women coming together to learn, grow and support each other in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.

Each Circle is led by a skilled facilitator. Companies are embracing Lean In Circles for their employees as they see a need to offer an innovative model for leadership development for promising employees. Finding peer engagement and mentoring, at times, is more relevant than traditional formalized classroom training and an effective alternative method of cultivating leaders.

“I have gained so much more from my Lean In Circle than just the materials we covered from the website. While we are learning about leadership skills, we are building friendships, getting support and coaching from the group, and receiving positive reinforcement and validation. We have also found networking opportunities with each other which can help us further develop our businesses and organizations. I feel so much more comfortable as a leader in my firm than I was 10 months ago, and I credit that to my active participation and engagement with my Lean In Circle.” - Circle Participant Applications are available by visiting www.berkswomen2women.com or contacting Kim Musko, Member Services Manager, at kmusko@greaterreadingchamber.org. Circles will begin in October. Cost to join is $500 and consists of ten 2-hour monthly sessions.

24 Women2Women Summer 2016

Path2Personal Development Series Path2Personal Development (P2D) has a personal development focus and is comprised of a series of programs throughout the year that are interactive and provide a place for women to connect, collaborate and support each other in a relaxed environment.

Work/Life Balance: Is it a Myth?

Deborah Bevvino, PhD, NP, Reading Health System Can a woman really balance the world of work and domestic responsibilities?

Probably not. New terms such as work life flow and work life rhythm have been used to describe this impossible feat. We can, however, create an internal balance that can nourish both the work world and our personal lives.

Implementing small changes can have dramatic effects. Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but backwards and in high heels. ~ Faith Whittlessey

Date: Wednesday, November 2, 2016 Location: Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m. Networking; 5:15–6:30 p.m. Program Cost: Free

It’s Not too late, Late-Bloomers!

Felicia Fisher, Esq., Founder of the Black Buggy Baking Company BYOB (Being Your Own Boss – that is!)

Felicia Fisher, founder of the Black Buggy Baking Company in Oley, invites you to BYOB - Be Your Own Boss! Not your everyday situation, Felicia decided to put her 13-year NYC law career on hold to pursue a different passion – baking!

Now she’s telling all in an exclusive presentation that is sure to leave you feeling empowered. Felicia’s BYOB presentation will feature her tried and true tips and tricks to breaking out of the box and branching out on your own, using your skillset to be successful, and owning your decision to be your own boss.

Date: Wednesday, January 11, 2017 Location: Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m. Networking; 5:15–6:30 p.m. Program Cost: Free

De Mujer a Mujer ESTABLECIENDO CONEXIONES

Part of our Latina Women2Women Initiative. Each month, we feature a different speaker who will share her inspiring story, accomplishes and challenges. All attendees will receive FREE admission to Caliente!* This adult program is for women only; all women are welcome to attend! Must be present by 5:45 p.m. to receive ticket to enter Caliente. *Must be 21 to enter!

Mentoring as a Life Philosophy Pat Schuster, General Manager at Polychem Systems, Div. of Brentwood Industries, Inc. Pat’s career spans several decades and she has a plethora of leadership success.

She was the most senior leader at one of Reading’s most successful enterprises – AT&T. She currently runs a division at Brentwood Industries. Throughout her career, Pat has mentored countless women and men. Hear from this icon and what she really thinks is important in life and in business.

Date: Wednesday, March 8, 2017 Location: Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m. Networking; 5:15– 6:30 p.m. Program Cost: Free

He Said-She Said: Gender Differences in the Workplace PART II Regina Rinehimer, Financial Advisor, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Tom Minick, Associate Vice President of Advancement at Alvernia University There is no denying that gender stereotypes still exist. While these stereotypes are often exaggerated, research shows gender characteristics do exist and influence the workplace. These differences don’t have to be negative, they can be a positive force for business. Hear from two professionals that have successfully navigated and harnessed the power of these differences. Join Regina Rinehimer and Tom Minick for this interesting discussion and gain tools that will help you navigate your own situations.

Date: Wednesday, May 10, 2017 Location: Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m. Networking; 5:15–6:30 p.m. Program Cost: Free

Upcoming Speakers: Thursday, September 8th: Nancy Fonseca, M.S.W, Penn State Health- St. Joseph Thursday, October 13th: Karissa Rodriguez, Esq., Berks District Attorney’s Office Thursday, November 10th: Perla Vinasco, COO and Paralegal, Kenneth M. Kitay & Assoc.

Date: 2nd Thursday of every month, Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: The Crowne Plaza Reading berkswomen2women.com 25

Growth2Go Leadership Series - For Education and Preparation Growth2Go is a professional “Lunch & Learn” series designed for women by women who want to share ways to help you succeed in a competitive world. Lunch is included with these educational sessions.

Masters of the Work-Life Balance

Have you ever wondered how some women seem to “do it all,” whether it’s having several jobs, juggling kids’ schedules, or taking care of aging parents? Do you find yourself wondering about their tricks or magical powers?

Join our panel discussion with four successful women who’ve mastered the balance and they’ll let you in on their secrets!

Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2016 Location: The Inn at Reading Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Cost: $22/person

Developing Emotional Intelligence for Success!

Joni Naugle, President Naugle Associates, LLC In today’s challenging business environment, you can’t survive on your IQ (Intelligence Quotient) alone. Developing your EQ is equally, if not more, important for career success. Join us to learn more about EQ, what it is, why it’s important for your success and what you can do to improve your own emotional intelligence. Joni specializes in Leadership and Company Culture.

Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2017 Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Reading Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Cost: $22/person

How To Get Paid What You’re Worth Ali Grusha

Physician Liaison Penn State Health – St. Joseph

Maria Radwanski, RN MSN CRRN Owner, Chief Operating Officer and Corporate Vice-President of Health Calls Home Health Agency

Attorney Alexa S. Antanavage

The Honorable Eleni Dimitriou Geishauser

Partner, Antanavage Farbiarz, PLLC

Adrean Turner, Owner of Turner Coaching, Training and Consulting, LLC Maybe you know what you should be getting paid, but do you know how to actually make it happen? Join Adrean Turner as she shares tips on how to research your salary, make a compelling pitch, negotiate a raise, and craft a career that’s ideal for you in a new or current position. Adrean, “The Career Fulfillment Expert,” is a Certified Career Coach, Business Consultant and Professional Development Trainer.

Date: Tuesday, March 14, 2017 Location: The Inn at Reading Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Cost: $22/person

Attorney and Berks County Judge

Why Are They Like That?

Relating to Difficult People

Save the Date!

Spring Renewal Expo Tuesday, April 25, 2017 The Crowne Plaza Reading

26 Women2Women Summer 2016

Carol Cool, Author and Speaker People can be so frustrating. Why does that guy have to keep talking when you would rather just get started solving the problem? Why does she seem unwilling to take a chance on a new idea? Discover through a fun look at Winnie-the-Pooh personality types why they and other coworkers (and you!) respond the way they do. Turn that knowledge into power to work well together and achieve results. Carol assists people in discovering their own uniqueness and finding balance by living authentically. She is also the author of Finding Balance in the Circus of Life.

Date: Tuesday, May 23, 2017 Location: Stokesay Castle Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Cost: $22/person

10 Things You Missed at the

5th Annual Women’s Expo

Compiled by Sara Radaoui, Media Relations Manager, Hoffmann Publishing and Julia Nickey, Director, Patient and Organizational Engagement, Penn State Health – St. Joseph

1

Laughing and crying as inspirational keynote speaker Linda Cliatt-Wayman shared the importance of taking time for yourself – even it’s for only 1 hour a day, at 4:30AM, on a treadmill – so you can take care of everything around you…your job, family, friends, volunteer work, mentoring, or whatever else you have going on.

2

Being in the presence of 390 fabulous attendees, 47 awesome vendors, six non-profit organizations, 16 buzz-worthy session presenters, one inspirational keynote speaker, and one deserving Athena honoree!

3

Learning that anxiety disorders increase as we get older and knowing when to “see someone” from Krista Schenkel, D.O. Family Medicine Physician, Penn State Health – St. Joseph.

4

Taking note as Sue Perrotty, ATHENA Award recipient, shared how important it is to have “sponsors” or supporters in order for trail blazing initiatives in the workplace to be successful.

5

Seeing the fabulous clothes Boscov’s has to offer for any occasion during the Fashion Show, and the sassy models that walked the runway.

6

Hearing the beautiful voice of Hannah Phillips, Music Therapist, Sweet Sound Music Therapy.

7

Preparing for predators on the street, in your house, or anywhere with situational awareness instructed by Tony Sabanos and Lee Barto of MPower Self Defense.

8

Walking away from “Sexy Skin through the Ages – a Holistic Approach” with a one-pager on how to care for your skin through food intake from your 20s to 60s and beyond from Ann Wellock, RD, LDN, Reading Health System.

9

Getting tips on getting “back in the game” after time away from the workforce from Paige Lamparella, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, and Mary Ellen Wells, Alvernia University. Bottom line, keep connected with past co-workers or clients and stay the track on when you want to work.

10

Hanging out at the “after-party” a couple steps away at Goodnites Lounge with all the cool ladies who stuck around! berkswomen2women.com 27

Growth2Go

The Power of Making

Connections M

By Nancy Dunleavy, President, Founder & CEO, Dunleavy & Associates

ost people have things that keep them up at night.

Problems that need to be solved. Seemingly insurmountable obstacles that need to be climbed, averted or tackled. Whatever your obstacle may be, sometimes the solution is just an ‘ask’ away.

Perhaps people don’t ask for help because they feel this will be perceived as a weakness. On the contrary, asking for help and providing help to those around us, makes us ALL stronger.

Women, especially, need to learn this lesson. Ladies, if we can follow one another into a restroom to powder our noses, why can’t we ask each other for what we need?! There is a certain quote from Madeline Albright, which just about sums it all up. “There is a special place in hell for women who do not help other women.”

Let’s start speaking UP and helping OUT! Women2Women is an organization that has become dear to my heart. I have had the opportunity to speak to this group of women twice. And neither time disappointed! The first was in November of 2014 and I spoke about the power of being a connector. The second time I spoke to this group was almost exactly a year later and I spoke about...being a connector!

I am not a one trick pony and truly did tell the organizers that I had other things I could talk about. “Are you sure?” I asked. I mean, really, did their audience want to hear the same thing TWICE? They assured me they did and I acquiesced. And am I glad they did! Some amazing connections came from both of my speaking engagements with this dynamic group of women.

So many amazing connections were made both years in a row. And, true to the connectors that these women are, they couldn’t wait to tell me about them! And since I have a captive audience, I’m going to tell you about three of the different connections that were made.

28 Women2Women Summer 2016

Mary’s Shelter Connection In attendance both years was Regina Rinehimer who served on the board of Mary’s Shelter, a non-profit devoted to helping women and their children with a safe place to live. The organization had acquired a large building that was formerly a Marine and Naval training facility but when the organization was finally able to occupy the building, they needed all sorts of help to get the place up and running. So, when Regina attended my connector event, she had a thousand things on her mind.

And she did not hesitate to exercise her ‘ask’ muscle when it came time to do so.

When Regina walked out of the room that day she had $200-300 that was spontaneously and generously donated by members in attendance – it seems that she had, in effect, launched a campaign to spread the word about something that was so dear to her heart.

A woman in attendance offered her local weekly TV show as a ‘commercial’ of sorts for the shelter. When Regina appeared on the show, she was able to announce to the community what Mary’s Shelter was about to embark on. In addition to the TV show, an employee from a local business offered to make Mary’s Shelter its Christmas charity that year. This business held clothing and food drives, among other things.

Girls on the Run, Berks County Connection Another success story that came out of this group of women comes from Kim Rivera, Executive Director of Girls on the Run, Berks County. Kim’s chapter of Girls on the Run was in need of volunteers for a 5K event in which they were participating.

She made the ask when she had the floor and had several people express interest in volunteering, others committed to spread the word in their organizations. From her initial ask, Kim still has a team of two sisters that continue to volunteer.

The bottom line is this; Regina, Kim and Dee would have been

able to eventually spread the word about their individual endeavors.

But if they hadn’t stepped up when they had the floor, it would have been much slower going. When we are more conscious about trying to make connections we can recognize the opportunities that have been right in front of our faces. It really is so simple; you just have to ask.

American Cancer Society Connection Probably one of the most exciting connections to come from the 2015 Women2Women event involved Dee Mathis with the American Cancer Society. This was the 4th year that she was involved with a Santa letter writing campaign at Christmas to benefit Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society. Dee needed quite a few volunteers for this project to write letters, ‘Santas’ to call children and even people to dress up like Santa to give these children a special Christmas treat.

Dee got up when the time came to exercise her ask muscle and because of this, received an outpouring of support that she could never have imagined. That day, she walked away with the business cards of 20 people who showed interest in the letter writing campaign. When the night of the event came, around 25 volunteers showed up to write letters, many coming because Dee exercised her ‘ask’ muscle. A total of 233 letters were written that night. But I think it’s safe to say that the power of these connections will endure for years to come.

Nancy Dunleavy is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, connector and now author of “Exercise Your Ask Muscle.”

For more info on Nancy’s work visit www.matchingmissions.com, or to share a success story (or “ask”) email her at: ExerciseYourAskMuscle@gmail.com. berkswomen2women.com 29

Work2Life /

Balancing Work, Life and Play for Couples Who Co-Own Businesses Tracy Hoffmann, Hoffmann Publishing

Much has been written about how married couples should manage the work/life balance when being co-owners and business partners. When married couples work together, it’s no longer just managing another employee or manager; there are far larger consequences if you don’t get it right. And, despite all the advice about navigating the work/ life partnership, it really boils down to knowing what fits best for each couple based on their unique personalities.

30 Women2Women Summer 2016

Balancing Life, Work & Family

S

o we decided to talk to one local couple, Tom and Deb Kearse, owners of Kohl Building Products, to find out how they manage the work/life/play balance.

How do you avoid conflicts at work?

The answer, they chimed in unison, is defining managerial roles. “Having distinctly different job titles and responsibilities is of paramount importance,” stated Deb. Identifying their individual strengths and weaknesses helped the Kearses structure their work roles to avoid overstepping. They consult one another regarding top-level management decisions but ultimately defer to the partner who has oversight for the final decision.

“There will always be life and work issues that are challenging,” mentioned Tom, “and, as couples, you may not always totally agree, but you need to move forward with (the decision), working collaboratively to reach the best outcome.”

Work2Life What are the pressures of being together 24 hours a day?

“Our situation may be more unique than others,” said Deb. “Kohl is a supplier of building materials to professional remodelers, builders and homeowners. We have nine locations throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland, and Tom and I travel to each one regularly, and often separately.

Additionally, we have the advantage of having worked together for nearly 30 years before being married in 2006.”

Their unique roles within the company mean that Deb may be doing vendor and supplier demo days or client ‘lunch & learns’ in any of the locations while Tom may be working at the corporate office or with managers or clients at another location on the same day.

“With nine locations, dozens of trucks and industrial equipment, nearly 160 employees, hundreds of ongoing projects and delivery deadlines, and thousands of products, there’s always something to address that requires our personal attention,” echoed Tom. “We consider business decisions carefully. Every single one will impact both the business and the 160 families who depend on Kohl Building Products.”

How do you keep the business pressures from consuming your after-work time?

“Only a fool would tell you that he or she avoids work discussions after hours,” quipped Tom. “We decided from the onset of our married life to allow either one of us to call a “time out” when a home discussion is stalemated, needs more information or gets emotional.”

“Our work allows us to have a comfortable life; we acknowledge that there may be times we need to discuss work-related issues. We just agree to keep the discussion brief and address anything that needs immediate attention. Then we delegate

it to the appropriate manager within our company, and resume our evening or weekend,” said Deb. Both stress that clear communications and chains of command alleviate much of the pressure. And call a “time out” to keep a balance of work and home life.

How do you keep an even keel with the life portion?

“We have many good friends and family members and have found that they help to keep us grounded,” answered Deb. “And we’re active in our communities because we’ve been blessed; we lend our time and talents to organizations that we support.”

Deb and Tom are very active in community non-profits, and have served or continue to serve in leadership and advisory positions with the Greater Reading Chamber, Caron Foundation, Berks Nature, Penn State Berks Advisory Board, Penn State Ecological Sciences and Management Alumni Board, Berks Home Builders Association, Pennsylvania Builders Association, National Association of Home Builders, 20 other local home builder associations and six remodeler councils.

They are often found attending various daytime, evening and weekend events, together or separately as schedules permit.

“This schedule can be very busy but I believe it provides greater focus for us to make our together-time special,” acknowledged Tom.

What are the highlights of your special together-time?

“Tom and I are huge Penn State fans,” beamed Deb. “We met at Penn State Mont Alto in 1970 and became friends immediately. It only took him 36 years to marry me, but I digress.”

When at home in Berks, they enjoy getting together with their many and varied friends and their grown children. They love to travel both personally for business events and customer trips.

“Part of our business model is to reward customers for their business and loyalty,” notes Tom. “Deb organizes a Customer Incentive Program that includes an outstanding ‘Partner’ trip each year. These have become trips to great destinations.

We’ll be joined by many customers, most become more than just customers; they have become close friends and join us as part of the Kohl Family.”

Both concur that their time spent with friends, family and community provide much of the food for their souls.

As life partners, what are the essentials to a good mate in a work/ life/play scenario?

“Tom,” said Deb, tongue in cheek. “He’s a good partner because he listens, he’s smart and he’s very handy. He can fix almost anything, and he cooks, cleans and irons his own shirts.”

Laughing, Tom replied, “Deb has been my soulmate. I cannot believe that from our first introduction in 1970, so much time has passed. Even harder to believe that this June we celebrated 10 years of marriage. In a good way it seems like it’s been longer. Deb is compassionate, intelligent, and incredibly loyal, and she helps me see my blind spots. Her faith in God and our marriage helps us in everything we do.”

Penn State football season is big for Tom and Deb. They attend nearly every home game and often are joined by friends and the legions of tailgating fans, many that they’ve grown to know over the years. They also decompress at their cabin in upstate PA, hosting friends throughout the year. berkswomen2women.com 31

Work2Life

United Way of Berks County Launches

Emerging Leaders United

By Paula Barron, Senior Vice President, Community Banking Manager Tompkins VIST Bank

U

nited Way of Berks County helps people in need, addresses our county’s critical issues and makes our community a better place for everyone. Over the years they have successfully implemented many programs related to education, health, income/financial stability and safety net services for the people right here in Berks County. Under the direction of Tammy White, President of United Way of Berks County, they do a terrific job connecting people to make a lasting impact in our communities.

32 Women2Women Summer 2016

The United Way staff and volunteers take time to do a complete analysis before they embark on any new initiatives. Their newest plan involves identifying and connecting with the next generation of leaders here in Berks County. Not just potential leaders from the business community, but leaders in education, manufacturing, health care and more. During last year’s United Way campaign, Penske Truck Leasing Co. and UGI Energy Services, two strong United Way company supporters, agreed to serve as pilot companies for a soft launch for this new program the United Way believes will greatly benefit the community overall.

At the Annual Dinner held in April, the United Way launched Emerging Leaders United (ELU). United Way’s Emerging Leaders are young individuals under the age of 45 who are seeking experiences to make our community a better place while furthering their own personal growth. The initiative’s kick off was a huge success with many individuals posting ELU pictures on social media and tweeting about the program launch.

Why the focus on the next generation of leaders? “Current leaders see great potential in the next generation,” states Tammy White. “At United Way of Berks County we want to collaborate with our community, business partners, and the educational sector to find creative ways to empower more young people to contribute and address the challenges and opportunities we face here in our community,” she said. “We have seen some great successes in other communities and knew we had the right partners to make it a success in Berks County.”

According to Sheila Tulli, United Way staff member and ELU champion, the group is already 190 people strong after only launching two months ago! Sheila says, “This group is willing to get involved at the grass roots level. They welcome the opportunity to literally get their hands dirty to make a difference today, with the aspiration that their collective effort will create an even brighter future for Berks County.”

ELU offers several benefits to its members: •

Social events – the ability to expand their contacts and network with other emerging leaders in a fun, casual atmosphere.

•

Volunteer opportunities – opportunities exist for individuals, groups and families ranging from working with children and seniors to neighborhood improvement projects.

•

Personal development – leverage skills and resources to enhance their self-awareness as leaders, learn new skills, and also have the opportunity to practice those skills right here in our community.

Who wouldn’t jump at the opportunity to network with a passionate group of young people who are creating a lasting impact in their communities? Sounds like fun with a purpose! Angela DeLong, Marketing Manager at UGI Energy Services, one of the pilot companies, heard about ELU at work. Upon hearing about the program, her initial thought was “finally!” Finally, there was an organized and easy way to volunteer with the United Way partner agencies.

Julia Shaw, Compliance Representative with Penske Truck Leasing Co., also a pilot organization, jumped right in when she learned about Emerging Leaders United. She participated in a ‘Day of Caring’ event where she and others cleaned up the pool at Olivet Boy’s and Girl Club on Clinton Street in Reading.

That day conveniently ended with a social hour at 3rd & Spruce Café. Julia also participated in an ELU event with Reading Recreation Commission Berks Area Mountain Biking Association to help clean up Mineral Spring Park, and she participated in two personal development seminars, a leadership seminar, and a networking seminar. Julia has been a tremendous advocate for ELU. According to Angela DeLong, her favorite event she has participated in was the holiday party for children at Berks

Women in Crisis. “Seeing all of our colleagues decked out in their festive (and ugly) holiday sweaters, making crafts, assisting Santa’s gift distribution, and trying to keep those gingerbread houses from falling apart – that was a real blast!”

In addition to the community service opportunities, the program offers unique personal development opportunities. The ELU program allows young people to develop personally and professionally, therefore enhancing their budding leadership skills among new and old friends. The United Way publishes the names of ELU members in their annual report so that leaders at the organizations in which the members work will know they are committed to enhancing themselves and creating lasting change in Berks County.

Angela DeLong says, “I have already benefited on a personal level through the satisfaction of being able to give back, even in my own small way. From a professional standpoint, ELU can be an excellent affinity group – like-minded individuals with whom I can network.

It’s inspirational to know that you are helping to set an example for the next generation.”

Getting involved with ELU is simple: Please visit uwberks.org to learn more and sign up.

KAREN H. COOK

berkswomen2women.com 33

Work2Life

LEAN IN CIRC

By Wendy Kershner, Axia Marketing

34 Women2Women Summer 2016

CLES

M

ost women want to connect, engage, participate, and contribute in the work place. And often it’s a question of how and when, coupled with challenges in carving out the time and making themselves a priority in order to thrive in their careers. The Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s Women2Women Lean In Circles help women do that in their professional roles with positive impact in their personal lives.

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, by Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, was published in 2013. Immediately causing a media swirl, it triggered passionate and enthusiastic dialogue about the different ways men and women are treated in the work environment and what opportunities are available to women.

Supported by an immense amount of gender studies research— from the best and the brightest including Stanford, Harvard and the University of Virginia—distilled to its essence, Lean In underscores the power of peer support, encouraging women to ‘sit at the table,’ seek challenges, take risks, and pursue goals with gusto. The message to working women is to literally lean in to their potential and change the conversation from what you can’t do to what you can do.

Working with Karen Marsdale, Interim President & CEO of the Chamber, Julia Klein, CEO of C. H. Briggs Company, was an early proponent of offering ‘Lean In Circles’ in the Berks County business community. “The Circles encourage women to make an investment in themselves. Our world needs every single ounce of talent we have and that means having everyone at the table for a shared approach to making things better.” Karen agrees and sees the best aspect of the Lean In Circles is that they “address the community need for more leaders and more critical thinkers.”

As a follow-up to the best-selling book, Sandberg created a foundation to help give organizations like the Chamber and individual women the tools to tap into women-to-women peer support. The non-profit LeanIn.org promotes peer discussion groups and provides educational resources plus structured program modules. Lean In Circles use a combination of specific curriculum with study guides and exploration sessions to promote learning from best practices as well as learning from other women in business. Seasoned facilitators guide the circles and create a confidential environment of trust and support.

Videos are accessed online for review before the educational sessions; outlines are provided for presenting work challenges in the exploration sessions. The blend is uniquely powerful, as one of the facilitators, Lynn Brown, highlights, “it builds professional confidence, and helps participants to learn how to be influential with those around them using a range of different tools and techniques.”

Continued on page 36

berkswomen2women.com 35

Work2Life Participant Tammy Dahms, Group Sales & Marketing Manager, with Santander Arena, describes “the educational sessions are about what you do in your job; the exploration sessions are very varied so I’m not left wanting anything.”

Although women join Lean In Circles for different reasons, most are familiar with Sheryl Sandberg’s book. For some, leadership development and peer support is a new experience. Others are also participating in coaching, mentoring, mastermind groups, and industry roundtables. The end goals are similar—to foster growth and learning, to help with transitions and adjusting, and to network with other professionals. Some of the individual comments range from “I just decided it was time to do something for me,” to “at first I wasn’t sure about joining because as a business leader, I’m so busy that I tend not to take care of my own personal development,” to “I was looking forward to connecting with other business mentors and leaders within the community.”

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36 Women2Women Summer 2016

The Chamber currently offers four Lean In Circles and plans to offer five Circles in 2017. The groups meet for two hours per month for 10 months, October through July. The initial pilot Circle was led by facilitator Joni Naugle in 2014, and three inaugural Circles were offered in 2015. There are typically 12 women in each group, and every participant and ‘circle alum’ is unanimous in praising the program and recommending it to other women. Being part of a Circle is energizing and inspiring—each group gets the benefit of the best thinking of talented women. Some of the Circles are determined by position level and depth of experience.

Joni defines the value and success of the Circles as the dynamic between the peers — “you can help others and others can help you.”

The discussions at each session are confidential, and every woman is empowered to make the right choice for themselves and to be accountable for moving forward in their careers.

The Lean In themes run through all the sessions— encouraging women to sit at the table, seek challenges, take risks, and pursue goals with gusto. For Sarah Finney, Compliant Quality Engineer, Alcon Research, the messages “ring true and clear through all the sessions—it’s about leaning in and leaning back, and when to do each one.” Lenette Wells, Principal, Entech Engineering, echoes that feeling and appreciates the ‘go for it’ and ‘you can do it’ encouragement from her peers. “It’s about how to have the conversations that move things forward; it’s about framing the situation. It’s also about being self-aware and to manage the extent that you can get your point across in a better way—which is about me managing myself better.”

Lenette had a work situation come up and wondered who she could ask about it. She ultimately reached out to someone from her Circle who had briefly talked about a similar situation. They got together, and it was enormously helpful to have someone to bounce ideas off of. And, the impact of Lean In came full circle when Tammy Bateman described a peer relationship with a male co-worker that significantly improved through applying some of the Lean In exercises. When a new opportunity came up where she’d

be working for that peer, she took it. And if that had happened earlier, before the Lean In Circle, she probably wouldn’t have taken the opportunity.

The outcomes from being part of a circle are all positive. Diane Hitt, President, East Coast Erosion Blankets, shared that “I joined to see how I can improve, and I was impressed with the comradery that developed and have formed great friendships.”

Nina Bohn, Founder & President, Illuminate Strategies, says she’s had some amazing learning and growth experiences, and “I gave the book to my daughter who’s graduating from Juniata, and right now I’m wrapping books as gifts for my daughter’s friends so they’re all ahead of the game.” Lynn Brown adds “I’m impressed with how much women value this, and in some ways it has impacted all aspects of their lives because it’s a holistic approach. I’m impressed with the process—it’s a strong one that can work for anyone.”

Overall, the power of peer support for working women is invaluable. We need to keep encouraging all women to sit at the table and change the conversation from what you can’t do to what you can do. How could ‘leaning in’ make a difference to you?

Join a Lean In Circle!

Circles form in October and meet 2 hours each month for 10 months, October through July Cost to participate - $500 per person.

For additional details, please contact the Chamber: 610.376.6766.

Lean In Circle Info Session Monday, August 1, 2016, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

The Chamber’s Center for Business Excellence, 49 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing FREE! Registration is Required – visit www.berkswomen2women.com or contact the Chamber at 610-376-6766.

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berkswomen2women.com 37

Health2 Wellness

Mental, Spiritual, Physical Health & Wellness

Vitamin Supplements Fact or Fiction

By Laura Hunter, MD Reading Health Physician Network – Women’s Health

By Jill Zelinsky, RD, LDN Assistant Director Nutrition Services Reading Health System

H

ealthcare providers are often asked by patients if they should be taking vitamins. The answer to this question is not always simple and should be based on the patient’s diet as well as the unique healthcare issues of that patient. Vitamins are nutrients that are involved in growth, development and good health. People must get vitamins from their diets because our bodies cannot make most of them. For adults with a balanced diet, there is no strong evidence that taking multivitamins is either helpful or harmful. However, many people do not or cannot eat a balanced diet. Less fruits and vegetables result in less vitamins consumed.

Scenarios where intake may be lacking: • Skipped meals • Fast food “super sizing” • Greater use of frozen or packaged convenience foods • Health conditions that change body’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients

Multivitamins provide 50 to 200 percent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamins in a daily dose. This dose is often enough to meet our needs. Vitamins pills and powders do not give us the other healthy items provided from food. Fiber which promotes colon health or antioxidants to help prevent cancers or heart disease are examples.

What vitamins or supplements should you consider taking if you are not eating a well-balanced diet and which ones are harmful?

There are 13 vitamins. These include vitamin A, 8 B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble vitamins and they can be stored in the body.

For this reason fat soluble vitamins can build up and become toxic.

Vitamin B (actually a series of eight related vitamins) and C are soluble in water and we have limited ability to store these vitamins.

Water soluble vitamins can generally be tolerated at high doses, with toxicity occurring at doses hundreds of times the recommended daily allowance (RDA).

Laura Hunter, MD, works with patients to identify healthy food choices.

38 Women2Women Summer 2016

Jill Zelinsky, RD, LDN, discusses daily nutrition with community member Emily Manwiller.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is imperative for normal vision and immune system function. It is especially important for pregnant and breastfeeding women for normal fetal development. Excess intake can actually cause birth defects. Vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of preventable childhood blindness. Excessive intake of vitamin A is a risk factor for bone fractures in women and may increase the risk of lung cancer in men who smoke or are exposed to asbestos and may increase your risk for heart disease. It is readily available in our diets and many foods are fortified with Vitamin A. Bottom line – Don’t take it unless advised by a physician.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B is a series of eight vitamins including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B7 (Biotin), B9 (Folic acid), and B12 (cobalamins). B12 is the only B vitamin that is stored in significant amounts in the body. Deficiency in any of these vitamins can cause disease and because they are water soluble it is difficult to cause harm from taking these vitamins. For instance, deficiency in Vitamin B12 makes it difficult for your body to make new red blood cells and may also cause your nervous system not to function properly. Deficiency in folic acid has been associated with birth defects in pregnant women. All women of childbearing age should take a folic acid supplement if considering getting pregnant. Niacin lowers triglycerides and lowering triglycerides lowers risk for heart disease and stroke – the leading causes of death in women.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant – it neutralizes free radicals in your body that can cause damage to your cells or even your DNA. Vitamin C is most famous for its role in prevention of scurvy. Contrary to popular belief there is limited evidence that Vitamin C helps you get over a cold.

Vitamin C may have a minor role in preventing the common cold, specifically for persons involved in high-intensity physical activity in extreme cold climates. Vitamin C does not prevent cancer, lower rates of heart disease or stroke. Doses 10-25 times the RDA may increase your risk for kidney stones.

Bottom line – take this if you do not eat citrus fruits but only RDA doses.

Continued on page 40

Bottom line – there is no harm in taking these and great benefits for those who do not eat a wellbalanced diet.

berkswomen2women.com 39

Health2Wellness Vitamin E Vitamin E is another antioxidant vitamin.

There is no evidence that Vitamin E lowers rates of heart disease, stroke, dementia, cataracts, macular degeneration (the leading cause of blindness in the elderly) or cancer. This concern arises from studies where Vitamin E supplements were given to patients with chronic diseases and it is unclear if a similar result would be found in healthier people. Vitamin E may cause increased bleeding times when taken with blood thinners.

Bottom line – it is not helpful unless your doctor tells you to take this for a specific indication. Certain chemotherapy regimens may be the best reason you might need to supplement vitamin E.

40 Women2Women Summer 2016

Vitamin D Vitamin D can be made in your skin from exposure to the sun. Vitamin D allows us to absorb calcium. Without sufficient D we develop diseases like rickets (which causes bone deformities) or osteoporosis.

Vitamin D may cause elevated levels of blood calcium at doses as low as 4000 units/ day (recommended upper limit) in some people. This may adversely affect the way your muscles contract and how your heart beats. Vitamin D is extremely important for post-menopausal women to prevent bone loss and it also lowers risk for falling which may lead to fractures. We currently recommend supplements of 600-800 units/ day for postmenopausal women.

Bottom line – it is probably a good idea to supplement your diet with Vitamin D3 600-800 units/day especially if you do not spend time in the sun, have kidney or liver disease or are menopausal.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is made by the bacteria in the intestine and is essential for forming blood proteins that allow us to stop bleeding once we start. It is also important in forming proteins that are involved in bone formation.

Signs of deficiency are easy bleeding or easy bruising or blood in your stool. Vitamin K deficiency is rare in healthy adults. Use of certain drugs or prolonged fasting can lead to Vitamin K deficiency as well as certain diseases like cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease and liver failure. Excess intake of Vitamin A or E will inhibit the absorption of Vitamin K. Bottom line – you do not need vitamin K supplementation unless you are told by your doctor that you have a medical condition that would make it necessary.

Commonly Used Supplements VITAMIN

FOOD SOURCES

A

Sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, mango, spinach, papaya, red peppers, fortified breakfast cereals.

B COMPLEX

Enriched and fortified grains, green leafy vegetables, milk and dairy foods, protein foods, and some fortified foods.

THIAMINE-B1

Whole grains and enriched grain products such as bread, pasta, tortillas, fortified cereals, pork and liver.

RIBOFLAVIN-B2

Milk, yogurt and other dairy foods, liver, enriched grain products such as bread, pasta, tortillas, and fortified cereals.

NIACIN-B3

Protein such as chicken, turkey, fish, beef, peanut butter and legumes. Enriched and fortified grain products.

PANTOTHENIC ACID-B5

Meat, poultry, fish, whole grain cereals and legumes.

PYRIDOXINE-B6

Chicken, fish, pork, liver, kidney, whole grains, nuts and legumes.

BIOTIN-B7

Eggs, liver, yeast breads and cereals.

FOLIC ACID-B9

Leafy vegetables like spinach, fruits, legumes such as navy beans and fortified or enriched cereals and grains.

COBALAMIN-B12

Animal products like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, milk and other dairy foods. Some fortified foods.

VITAMIN C

Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, berries, peppers, tomatoes, peppers.

VITAMIN D

Fortified milk, cheese, fortified cereals.

VITAMIN E

Vegetable oils, margarine, salad dressing, nuts and seeds.

VITAMIN K

Green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.

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Health2Wellness Follow “Life’s Simple 7” from the American Heart Association to help keep your kidneys healthy: 1. Manage Blood Pressure 2. Control Cholesterol 3. Reduce Blood Sugar 4. Get Active 5. Eat Better 6. Lose Weight 7. Stop Smoking

You and your kidneys. for women…

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By Trudy Demko, MD Chief, Section of Nephrology, Reading Health System

ew of us think about our kidney health; however, kidney disorders are on the rise, particularly in women.

The Centers for Disease Control has identified kidney disease as the 9th leading cause of death in women.

Due to epidemic increases in diabetes, hypertension and metabolic syndrome (pre diabetes), the kidneys have become innocent bystanders in diseases of the heart, high blood pressure and diabetic syndromes.

Certainly, we see hereditary kidney disorders, but this is only a small portion of the kidney issues most of us will experience. Our lifestyle and longevity are predictors of the likelihood of whether we may develop problems with our kidneys. Kidney dysfunction is often silent, although if you have had a kidney stone, you will beg to differ.

42 Women2Women Summer 2016

Who gets kidney stones?

Any of us are susceptible to stone disease and there is a small genetic predisposition. The factors that make us most susceptible to stone disease are those things that constitute the “metabolic syndrome.” Metabolic syndrome is the precursor to diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Typically we see metabolic syndrome in the overweight, inactive adult. The number of people who now have metabolic syndrome has climbed to 34% of all adults.

While the passage of a kidney stone has been described as painful as or worse than childbirth, without the wonderful result of a baby, the formation of immobile stones causes no symptoms or discomfort. Stones typically only cause pain when they are on the move. It is not recommended that we screen everybody for stone disease, but once one stone has been found, there is a greater than 50% chance you will grow more. Prevention is key! Fortunately, the kidney stone diet demands little more than following a heart healthy low sodium diet. With the addition of increased water intake the risk of forming additional kidney stones plummets. The added bonus of a new diet and lifestyle is weight loss, improved energy levels and a longer life!

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Chronic kidney disease is failure of the kidneys to function at a normal level, and is a slowly progressive disease. Early in kidney disease the kidney function is fairly normal but the kidney filter malfunctions and excess proteins leak into the urine causing edema, or swelling of the ankles. This leak then leads to kidney scarring and progressive kidney failure in the future if not identified and treated.

It has become much more prevalent, particularly in the hospitalized and the elderly. It is also quite silent, until it has progressed to near end stage for most. However, it is easy to screen for CKD and prevent it. A simple routine renal panel and urinalysis in those at risk for kidney disease gives an unequivocal answer as to whether kidney disease is present or not.

Women tend to be diagnosed with CKD at a decreased rate than their male counterparts. They have CKD, but it is not targeted by their health care provider. The reasons are unclear. Knowledge of one’s health risks and talking with your health care providers is the best way to determine if you are at risk or have kidney disease.

Ask your provider the following questions: Is my bloodwork, or urinalysis abnormal? Is this new or chronic? What can I do to decrease the progress of kidney disease? Explore your patient portals, on line charts and doctor visit summaries. Risk factors can be decreased and CKD can be stabilized with attention to some basic, and fortunately, simple factors.

Trudy M. Demko, MD Chief, Section of Nephrology Reading Health System

Who typically develops CKD? Genetic predisposition constitutes a small percentage of chronic diseases of the kidneys. Diabetes and high blood pressure, which are the end result of the metabolic syndrome, are the most frequent causes of kidney disease and failure. Women are now found to have a higher prevalence of kidney failure due to longevity, and perhaps under diagnosed kidney disease as compared to men.

Men who have kidney disease tend to develop end stage kidney disease or dialysis more often than women.

Can CKD be prevented?

There are some high risk behaviors and lifestyles that increase the risk for kidney disease. The high risk behaviors of poor dietary choices and inactivity lead to diabetes and hypertension as we age. We are seeing more diabetes in young adults and CKD is also being seen at younger ages. Women have been known to self-medicate with over the counter pain medications, laxatives and diuretics which are all harmful to the kidneys when used over a long term.

What are the stages of CKD? The disease stages refers to the 5 stages of chronic kidney disease beginning with mild abnormalities in the urine in stages 1 and 2, progressing to gradually weaker kidney strength in stages 3 and 4, culminating in stage 5D which is the final result of chronic kidney disease, or dialysis. Thankfully, most of us never see end stage kidney failure or dialysis. There is a 3.6% life time risk for End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), more predominantly in those over the age of 70. However, the life time risk of stage 3 kidney disease is 59%. Stage 3 kidney disease represents a 50% decrease from normal kidney strength, and even though there may not be overt symptoms of kidney failure seen at this stage, there is increasing high blood pressure and a high risk of medical complications when taking medications or experiencing medical illnesses.

1.

Heart Disease 2. Cancer 3 .

Stroke 4. COPD

(Emphysema & chronic bronchitis) 5. Alzheimer’s 6. Diabetes

7.

Kidney Disease

8.

Blood Poisoning-Septicemia 9.

Anxiety Disorders/Depression 10. Osteoporosis List compiled from Everyday Health, Fox News, Office on Women’s Health, Del Mar Times and Hopkins Medicine.

berkswomen2women.com 43

Health2Wellness

The Value of Vacations

By Kristin Golden Mancuso, KGM Marketing LLC Photo Credit: Kristin Golden Mancuso

A

Google search of the phrase, “benefits of vacation,” yields 88,900,000 results. Impressive. Most of us are guilty… it’s hard to break away. Sometimes taking a vacation feels more stressful than not taking one at all – and even the planning can cause stress.

Health benefits

There’s no question that work can cause stress. “Chronic stress takes its toll in part on our body’s ability to resist infection, maintain vital functions, and even ability to avoid injury,” says Susan Krauss Whitbourne, Ph.D. from the UMass Amherst. [3]

If we do take time off, we often take short breaks, not the full length allowed with our vacation policies. In fact, in the U.S. in 2014, workers only took 51% of the number of vacation days they were allowed and 15% of people took no time off at all. [1]

Whitbourne states that when you’re stressed and tired, you are more likely to become ill, your body does not perform as well, and you’re more likely to have an accident. Sleep is impacted, digestion is disrupted, and even scarier, genetic material in the cells of your body may start to change.

We have a million excuses: we’re too busy; we want to advance our careers; we want to appear dedicated; we’re worried about job security or how we are perceived by our colleagues; our children are in activities and sports that they cannot miss; we can’t afford it; there’s too much to do at home. The list never ends.

The bottom line, we must take measures to reduce and manage stress. The good news is that taking a break from stress can reverse most of these health risks.

Let’s be honest, most of us live lives that are so full of activities and obligations, it makes our heads spin. We all need vacations!

Benefits of taking a vacation – there’s actual proof Vacation isn’t an indulgence; it plays an important role in our lives. The benefits that result are measurable.

44 Women2Women Summer 2016

Vacations offer a chance for your body to turn off the stress systems, to recuperate and to repair. Research has shown that people on holiday immediately feel healthier, have less physical complaints and even have a reduction in cholesterol levels on their return. [4]

Vacations make you happier

It may seem obvious, but research has found that after taking a vacation, workers are more likely to be in a good mood and to have higher levels of energy [6]. Better yet, people who come back from vacation are more satisfied with their lives in general when they return [7]. Doesn’t a calmer, energized, happier “you” sound like a good outcome?

Improve family connection

Vacations also lead to improved connections with your traveling companions. An international group of researchers led by Purdue University’s Xinran Lehto concluded that family vacations contribute positively to family bonding, communication and solidarity.

Lehto found that shared family memories and time spent together isolated from ordinary everyday activities (school, work, etc.) help to promote these positive ties. Worth noting, Lehto’s research revealed that although family vacations can have their own share of stress, the benefits outweigh the risks, even in families that are not particularly close. [5]

So, you’ve taken a vacation, but you can’t stop thinking about work With each hour that passes, you can visualize your emails piling up. Perhaps, for you, the smartest thing to do is to plan a half hour visit each day to check in – through either a call to the office or a scan of your email. But don’t let that feeling distract from your fun, the peace of mind that comes from a vacation will give you the renewed energy to tackle that mountain of email with more enthusiasm and efficiency.

What can actually happen to us if we don’t take vacations?

If we know that stress can cause health issues, anxiety, sleep and digestion issues, it’s safe to assume that those negative effects will affect your daily attitude, mood and quality of work.

Presenting yourself as an over-achiever may backfire!

Employers should also worry about burnout. If your employee or colleague never takes the break they need, how will they maintain the pace? Eventually, they will run out of steam, blaming the circumstances of their role. As a result, your business may suffer – lost days, workers’ compensation claims and decreased retention rates. [8] The onus is on managers to encourage your team to take the time away from work they need to restore, refresh and reenergize. The results will be well worth it.

In addition, that post-vacation mentality reduces conflict and tension in the workplace. Tony Schwartz is the founder of The Energy Project, an organization that aims to increase both productivity and well-being at work. As he was starting his business, Schwartz noticed that “the intensity of demand had begun to wear [my employees] down, too, and it showed up in a collective tendency to be more emotionally reactive — shorter and sharper — and more willing to settle for an easy Continued on page 46

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solution rather than do the hard work necessary to get the best result.” [8] Schwartz’s experience demonstrates how vital vacation time can be. He suggests that people use every vacation day they have. [8]

What if you absolutely cannot take a vacation?

For some of us, this is reality, but don’t worry! We can plan mini “vacations” or a “staycation” in our daily life that can provide similar benefits. We just may have to make a concerted effort to change our daily habits to achieve vacation-like benefits.

Take short breaks while you work The human body can work for intense periods of focus for roughly 90 minutes. After that, our natural rhythms try to force us to take a break. Many times, we are guilty of continuing our tasks. Ten minutes is all we need to refresh our mind. [8]

Plan 1-2 hours in the evening to completely unplug Experts say, not only does this give us a chance to take a break from the stressful urgency of the digital world, but it also allows us to reconnect with our families, fully focus on a great book, or rest our minds from work-centric world. In doing so, our minds approach the next day’s work challenges with more creativity and better problem solving ability. [9]

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Play a game or plan a new outing with friends Variety in activity gives our mind a chance to reset. By taking on a new challenge, taking on a physical challenge and sharing in that adventure with friends or family, we build a better connection, which as we discussed before creates stability and connectivity in our personal lives.

The bottom line? We need to take breaks – every day Even short breaks in the evening can be beneficial. Researchers from Kansas State University found that although we may try to avoid it, we really do need down time after work to mentally recharge for the next day.

“Competition in the workplace is getting fierce,” says Kansas researcher YoungAh Park. “If there are any unpleasant text messages or emails from work-related people – such as a boss, co-worker, clients, customers or contractors – you may be more likely to ruminate about work-related issues or worries. When people are really under stress their psychological and physical resources are drained, so they are less likely to self-regulate hostile behaviors and provide sufficient support for their spouse.” Park added that, “[i]f working couples don’t recuperate from their job stress while at home they would be likely to fall into a spiral of lost resources.” [11] More good news, stepping away from work responsibility benefits those around us as well – and can improve our connection to our loved ones. In a 2009 study, Canadian researchers Joudrey and Wallace reported that “active leisure pursuits (such as golf ) and taking vacations helped to buffer or ameliorate the job stress” among a sample of almost 900 lawyers working in highly stressful work settings. [2] Isn’t that refreshing news?

The ultimate lesson: taking breaks from work, whether they be brief or lengthy, will make a difference in our happiness, behavior and responses – imagine what a few days off can provide.

[1] Glassdoor, Q1 2014 Employment Confidence Survey. 2014.

[2] Human Relations Leisure as a coping resource: A test of the job demand-control-support model Allan D. Joudrey and Jean E. Wallace. February 2009 vol. 62no. 2 pp.

195-217 [3] PSYCHOLOGY TODAY, Fulfillment at Any Age, The importance of vacations to our physical and mental health, Susan Krauss Whitbourne Ph.D. Jun 22, 2010 [4] Fritz, C. and S. Sonnentag, Recovery, well-being, and performance-related outcomes: the role of workload and vacation experiences. Journal of Applied Psychology, 2006. 91(4): p. 936.

[5] Family vacation activities and family cohesion. Lehto, X. Y.; Lin YiChin; Chen, Y.; Choi SooJin. Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing 2012 Vol. 29 No. 8 pp. 835-840 [6] de Bloom, J., et al., Effects of vacation from work on health and well-being: Lots of fun, quickly gone. Work & Stress, 2010. 24(2): p. 196-216.

[7] Strauss-Blasche, G., C. Ekmekcioglu, and W. Marktl, Moderating effects of vacation on reactions to work and domestic stress. Leisure Sciences, 2002. 24(2): p. 237-249.

8] FORBES, The Best Reason Ever To Take A Two Week Vacation, Work in Progress Career talk for women, Kristi Hedges, JUN 25, 2013 [9] FORBES, Feeling Overconnected? 5 Reasons To Unplug From Technology After Work, Alice G. Walton, FEB 6, 2013 [11] Park, Y., Fritz, C., & Jex, S. M. (2015, March 24). Daily cyber incivility and distress: The moderating roles of resources at work and home. Journal of Management. Advance online publication. doi:10.1177/0149206315576796 [12] THE PIP, The importance and benefits of going on vacation, 31 JULY 2015

3. Girl Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Success,

Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur

by Alwill Leyba Cara

READING LIST 2015 Survey Results indicated that our readers are seeking personal enrichment resources. The following list of books was compiled and recommended by the Women2Women Magazine Editorial Committee. Submit your recommendations for future reading lists to dantos@greaterreadingchamber.org.

1. Presence – Bringing Your BOLDEST SELF to Your BIGGEST CHALLENGES

by Amy Cuddy Harvard psychologist and TED star Amy Cuddy reveals how to unleash your boldest self to heighten your confidence, influence others, and perform at your peak.

2. Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead

by Sheryl Sanberg In response to Sheryl’s 2010 TEDTalk on the ways women are held back— and the way we hold ourselves back— viewers around the world shared their own stories of struggle and success.

This overwhelming response inspired Sheryl to write this book. In Lean In, she shares her personal stories, uses research to shine a light on gender differences, and offers practical advice to help women achieve their goals.

It seems as though a growing group women entrepreneurs all around the world has discovered the secret to success and happiness in both their lives and careers.

It’s almost as though there is a hidden, underground world of power playing females who have all cracked a magical code: they think positively, they support one another, and they truly believe they can have it all – and you can, too.

4.

Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find – and Keep – Love

by Amir Levine We rely on science to tell us everything from what to eat to when and how long to exercise, but what about relationships? Is there a scientific explanation for why some people seem to navigate relationships effortlessly, while others struggle? According to psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Amir Levine and Rachel Heller, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

5.

The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance – What Women Should Know

by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

Named in TIME Magazine’s Best Negotiation Books for 2015, The Confidence Code was written by the authors of Womenomics. They interviewed successful women in a range of fields including sports, politics and business – and discovered that many, even the most successful, lack confidence. The authors investigate whether men really have more confidence than women. They find that confidence trumps competence at work. And confidence can be learned. berkswomen2women.com 47

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