The Indispensable Art of Seeing Around Corners
Dearreaders,
Welcometoanissuethatcelebratesthepowerofforesight,innovation,andtransformativeleadership.Ina worldconstantlyshiftingandevolving,theabilitytonotjustnavigatechangebuttoproactivelyshapethe futureisthehallmarkoftrulyvisionaryleaders.Thisisthespiritthatdrivesourspecialedition:“The10 MostVisionaryWomenLeadersin2025.”Withinthesepages,wespotlightincrediblewomenwhoarenot justexcellingintheirfieldsbutarefundamentallyrethinkingparadigms,drivingunprecedentedgrowth,and leavinganindeliblemarkontheirindustriesandbeyond.Theirstoriesareatestamenttotheimpactof courage,strategicthinking,andanunwaveringcommitmenttopushingtheboundariesofwhat’spossible.
OurcoverstoryfeaturesMaryBlack,SeniorVicePresidentatPostAcuteSpecialists,aleaderwhose strategicprowesshasyieldedremarkableresults.Maryisatrueinnovator,adeptatinformingand transformingorganizationsthroughstrategy,technology,anddataanalytics.Herabilitytotranslatevisioninto measurablesuccess,particularlywithinthecomplexlandscapeofseniorcareandvalue-basedmodels,is exceptional.Byenergizingvision,conceivingnewstrategies,andfosteringaccountability,shehasdriven extraordinaryoutcomes,includingastaggering300%netincomegrowthandachievingafive-yearplanin justthreeyears.Mary’semphasisonsettingquantifiablegoalsandleveragingdataensuresthatevery initiativedeliverstangibleimprovementsandbuildsmomentumtowardslargerobjectives,makingareal differenceinpatientoutcomes.
Inside,youwillalsofindinspiringprofilesofothervisionarywomenleaderswhoaremakingsignificant contributionsacrossdiversesectors.WeareproudtofeatureKelseyWaldrop,FounderofPotentialOnPoint; DanielaJurado,ExecutiveVicePresidentforNorthAmericaatVTEX;DawnChristine,ChiefExecutive OfficerofDawnChristine,ArchitectPLLC;andDr.MitzeBurnett,FounderandChiefExecutiveOfficerof BurnettTherapeuticServices.
Theircollectivejourneysofferinvaluableinsightsintoleadership,resilience,andthepowerofaclear, forward-lookingvision.Weinviteyoutodelveintotheirstories,learnfromtheirexperiences,andbeinspired bytheirremarkableachievements.Thisissueismorethanjustarecognitionofsuccess;it'sasourceof inspirationforthenextgenerationofleaderspoisedtoshapethefuture.Enjoytheread.
HappyReading!
Pankaj Gholap Project Editor
USALEADERS THE
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Inanerawhereseniorcareisincreasingly recognizedasafundamentalsocietalneed, MaryBlack,SeniorVicePresidentof MarketGrowthandPayorRelationsatPostAcute Specialists,standsoutasavisionaryleader dedicatedtodrivinggrowthandtransformation.With 25yearsofexperienceinhealthcare,Mary’sjourney reflectsherunwaveringcommitmenttoenhancing thequalityoflifeforseniorsthroughclinicalinsight andstrategicinnovationinpost-acutecare.
EarlyFoundationsinHealthcare
Mary’scareerbeganinradiology,whereshehoned herskillsinprecisionandefficiency Workingasa Radiographer,shegainedinvaluablehands-on experiencewithinvariousimagingmodalities.This experiencetaughthertheimportanceofaccuracy, qualitypatientcare,andleadershipskills. Furthermore,shedevelopednewservicelinesand performedherfirstmergerandacquisitionwitha largehealthcaresystem.“Thisfoundationalrole wascrucialindevelopingmyskillsinstrategic positioning,processimprovement,andnavigating thecomplexitiesofmergersandacquisitions,”she recalls.HerworkstartedlocallyinDallas,buther ambitionssoontookhereffortsnationwide.
Eagertofacemorecomplexchallenges,Marypursued adegreeinHealthServicesAdministrationatthe UniversityofTexasSouthwesternMedicalCenter Dallas.Thisacademictrainingprovidedherwitha deeperunderstandingofhealthcaremanagement, equippingherwiththetoolstobuildManagement ServicesOrganizations(MSOs)andfosterstrong networkswithprimarycareandspecialtycare providersthroughstrategicmergersandacquisitions. HerexperienceataBigFourconsultingfirmfurther sharpenedherstrategicvisionskills,allowingherto drivemarketgrowthinitiativesforhealthsystems effectively
AfterearningherMBAfromtheUniversityofDallas, Marytransitionedintobusinessdevelopmentand eventuallyfocusedonAccountableCare Organizations(ACOs)andvalue-basedcare.This pivotalshiftmarkedherentryintopost-acutecareand privateequity,wheresheledstrategicpartnerships aimedatenhancingcaredeliveryandimproving patientoutcomes.CertificationsasaProject ManagementProfessional(PMP)andLeanSixSigma GreenBelt(LSSGB)laterreinforcedherabilityto leadprojectsanddrivegrowth.Today,Mary’sunique blendofclinicalexpertiseandbusinessacumen informsherworkinpost-acutecare,whereshe focusesoninnovativesolutionsforseniorpatients transitioningtoskillednursingfacilities,homehealth, andassistedlivingcenters.
AligningVisionwithMeasurableSuccess
ForMary,astrongvisioninseniorcaremusttranslate intoclear,measurableoutcomes.Throughouther career,shehasemphasizedtheimportanceofaligning strategicinnovationwithoperationalefficiencywithin theframeworkofvalue-basedcare.“Totranslate visionintomeasurablesuccess,particularlyfor seniorcare,Iemphasizesettingspecific, quantifiablegoalsthatresonatewithourmissionto improveoutcomesforseniors,”shestates. Byleveragingdataanalytics,shetracksprogress, identifiesareasforimprovement,andcelebratessmall victoriesthatbuildmomentumtowardlargergoals. Thispractical,numbers-drivenapproachensuresthat everyinitiativesupportscontinuousgrowthandmakes atangibledifferenceinpatientoutcomes.
StrategiesforGrowthatPostAcuteSpecialists
UnderMary’sleadership,PostAcuteSpecialistshas achievedremarkablegrowththroughstrategic initiativesaimedatenhancingpost-acutecarefor seniors.
Cover Story
“Weprioritizedstrengtheningpartnershipswithlocal hospitalsandhealthsystems,skillednursingfacilities (SNFs),andhomehealthagenciestostreamlinepatient transitionsfromacutetopost-acutecare,”she explains.Thiscollaborativeapproachfostersaseamless continuumofcare,ensuringthatseniorsreceivethe supporttheyneedduringcriticalrecoveryperiods.
Maryalsoprioritizedinvestingintelehealthtechnologies, enablingtimelyconsultationsandfollow-upcarethrough virtualplatforms.Thisapproachhassignificantlyreduced hospitalre-admissionsandimprovedpatientsatisfaction. Byimplementingtargetedmarketingstrategiestoreach vulnerablepopulations,shehasraisedawarenessofthe specializedservicesofferedbyPostAcuteSpecialists, ensuringthatthosewhoneedassistancecanaccessit readily
Moreover,Maryhasforgedvitalstrategic partnershipswithprivateequityandventurecapital firmstoraisecapitalandfacilitatemergersand acquisitionsthatexpandtheorganization's capabilities.Thisholisticapproachcombines operationalexcellencewithinnovativeservice delivery,achievingimpressivemilestonesinboth patientsatisfactionandoverallefficiency.
AdvancementsShapingtheFutureofHealthcare
Maryhaswitnessedfirsthandhowadvancements suchasvalue-basedcare,Medicareriskmodels,and remotepatientmonitoringarereshapingthe healthcarelandscape—especiallyforseniors. “Value-basedcareshiftsthefocusfromthe numberofservicesprovidedtothequalityof patientoutcomes,”shenotes.Thisparadigm encourageshealthcareproviderstodelivermore patient-centeredcare,whichisparticularlyessential inpost-acutesettingswherecontinuityandquality arecrucial.
Medicareriskmodelsfurtherincentivizeefficiency, urginghealthsystemstouseresourceswiselywhile maintaininghighstandards.Remotepatient monitoringhasemergedasacriticaltool,enabling continuoustrackingofhealthdataandallowingfor proactiveinterventionsinchronicconditions.“I believetheseadvancementswillleadtoamore integratedhealthcaresystem,wheretechnology suchastelehealth,wearablemonitoring,AI,and dataanalyticsplaysessentialrolesindecisionmaking,”Maryexplains.Inherview,embracing thesetrendsiskeytobuildingafuturewheresenior careisbothcomprehensiveandcompassionate.
FosteringInnovationandEmbracingTechnology
InnovationinseniorcareisattheheartofMary’s work.Shecreatesanenvironmentthatencourages creativityandexperimentation,particularlywhenit comestointegratingnewtechnologies.“Innovation isfosteredbycreatinganenvironmentthat encouragescreativityandexperimentation, especiallywithtechnologytailoredforsenior care,”sheemphasizes.Underherleadership,the organizationhasembracedtelehealthandartificial intelligence(AI)solutionstoimprovepatientcare andoperationalefficiency.AItechnologieshelp analyzepatientdatatoidentifytrendsandtailor treatmentplanstoindividualneeds,whiletheir telehealthservicesbringcomprehensivecaredirectly toseniorsovercomingbarrierstoaccessand providingaconvenient,patient-centeredexperience.
Maryacknowledgesthatnavigatingthe complexitiesofpolicyandmarket growth,especiallyforseniorcare, requiresaproactiveapproach.She staysinformedaboutregulationsand engagesstakeholders—including payersandproviders—toalign organizationalstrategieswithindustry standards.Strongpartnerrelationships arevitalforfavorablecontractsand effective,compliantcaremodelsatPost AcuteSpecialists.Hermarkettrendand policyawarenessallowforrapid adaptation,keepingpatientoutcomes centraltoalldecisions.
KeepingtheTeamAheadof TechnologicalAdvances
Maryrecognizesthattherapidpaceof technologicalchangepresentsboth opportunitiesandchallenges.“To ensureourteamstaysaheadinthe technologicalcapabilitiesrelevantto seniorcare,Iencouragecontinuous learningandprofessional development,”sheexplains.Regular trainingsessionsonemerging technologies,especiallyintelehealth andAIapplications,andwearable technologyareakeypartofthe programatPostAcuteSpecialists.
Shealsopromotesacultureofcuriosity andadaptability,encouragingherstaff tosharenewideasanddiscussbest practicesduringteammeetings. Collaboratingwithtechnologypartners allowsherteamtopilotinnovative solutions,ensuringtheyarealways preparedtointegratethelatest advancementsintotheirdailywork.
TrendsattheIntersectionofAI, Technology,andHealthcare
Lookingahead,MarypredictsthatAI andtechnologywillplaytransformative rolesinhealthcare,particularlyfor seniors.“IforeseeAIenhancingrisk stratificationinthediagnostic accuracyandenablingpersonalized treatmentbyanalyzinglargesetsof patientdatatoidentifytrends,”she asserts.
Cover Story
As we continue to innovate and adapt in postacute care, my ultimate goal remains clear: to ensure that every senior-all patients receive compassionate care, access to specialists, and high-quality care they deserve. By fostering collaboration and embracing new technologies, we can create a future where every transition in care is seamless and every patient feels valued and supported.
Telehealth,alreadyavitaltool,willcontinue toexpand,overcomingbarrierstoaccessfor seniorsandprovidingaconvenient,patientcenteredexperience.Furthermore,wearable technologywillempowerpatientsto monitortheirownhealthinrealtime, enablingearlyinterventionsthatcanprevent complications.Thesetrendsaresetto revolutionizethedeliveryofhealthcare, makingitmoreefficient,personalized,and responsive.
FutureInitiativesforPostAcute Specialists
Assheenvisionsthefuture,Maryexpresses excitementaboutnewinitiativesatPost AcuteSpecialistsaimedatenhancingaccess tocareforseniorsandallpopulations.“We plantoexpandourtelehealthofferings, providinggreateraccesstospecialistsand improvingcarecoordinationforthis population,”shestates.Additionally,sheis exploringstrategicpartnershipswith expandingspecialtycareservicesona nationallevel,aswellascollaboratingwith technologycompaniestointegrateAI-driven solutionsandwearabletechnologyinto clinicalworkflows,whichwillstreamline processesandimproveoperational outcomes.
MaryBlack’sjourneyisnotjustoneof personalachievement;itisatestamenttothe powerofperseverance,knowledge,and teamworkintransformingseniorcareimprovingaccessforall.Herleadership continuestoinspirethosearoundher, drivingmeaningfulchangeinanindustry thatservesoneofsociety’smostvulnerable populations.Asshelookstothefuture, Maryremainscommittedtohermissionof deliveringcompassionate,innovativecareto seniors,ensuringtheylivetheirbestlives withdignityandrespect.
Daniela Jurado vtex.com/en-us Bianca Barbu biancabarbu.com
Burnett www.btsinc.services Dr. Nedaa Al Jasim curlrelax.com
com
postacutespecialists.com Dawn Christine dawnchristine.net
Langdon coologics com Kelsey Waldrop potentialonpoint.com
Principal Architect and Chief Executive Officer
Building an Architectural Practice on Experiential Design and Balanced Leadership
Successinthefieldofarchitecturedemandsa skillfulnavigationbetweenartisticvisionandthe practicalrealitiesofbusinessmanagement.Firms mustnotonlyproducecompellingdesignsbutalsooperate efficiently,manageclientrelationshipseffectively,and adapttoevolvingmarketdemands.DawnChristine, PrincipalArchitectandChiefExecutiveOfficerofDawn Christine,ArchitectPLLC,leadsapracticethat demonstratesaconsciousefforttomasterthisbalance.With overtwodecadesinthefield,includingmorethantenyears leadingherownfirm,Ms.Christinehascultivateda practicespecializinginhigh-designprojectsnotedfor artistryandcreativity,whileimplementingspecific strategiesforoperationalstabilityandgrowth.
Thisanalysiswillreviewtheoriginsofthefirm,its differentiatingdesignphilosophy,Ms.Christine’sleadership approach,keystrategicinitiatives,andhermethodsfor managingtheinherenttensionbetweencreativeexploration andbusinesspragmatism.
TheGenesisoftheFirm:ADriveforDesignAuthority
DawnChristine’sdecisiontoestablishherownpractice stemmedfromadesireforgreatercreativecontroland designleadership.Aftergaining15yearsofexperience workingforanotherfemalearchitectinRaleigh (specifically,MegMcLaurinAIAfrom2002to approximately2012),andaftersittingforherlicensing
exams,shereachedapointwhereshesoughttomakethe primarydesigndecisionsherself.Apivotalconversation occurredwhenherthen-bossindicatedanunwillingnessto delegateprojectdesignleadership.Thiscatalystprompted Ms.Christinetolaunchherownventure.
Shestartedthefirmfromherresidence,initiallyoperating outofthediningroomofher1400-square-foothouse Notably,sheundertookthisentrepreneurialstepasasingle motherraisingthreechildren,acircumstancethat profoundlyinfluencedhersubsequentapproachto leadershipandworkculture.Thisoriginstoryhighlightsa decisivemovetowardsprofessionalautonomydrivenbya clearvisionfordesignexecution.
DefiningtheNiche:The“ExperientialArchitect”
DawnChristine,ArchitectPLLCdistinguishesitself throughaspecificdesignphilosophyMs.Christineterms “experientialarchitecture.”Whileacknowledgingthe importanceofformandfunction–theexternalappearance andpracticalutilityofabuilding–herapproachextends further.Sheemphasizesdesigningfromtheinsideout, focusingonhowindividualsinteractwithandexperiencea spaceemotionallyandpsychologically
“Ithinkaboutarchitecturenotonlyfromtheoutsidebut alsofromtheinside,”sheexplains.“It’saboutcreatingan iconicexperience."Thecoreobjectivemovesbeyond
aestheticsorutilitytoconsiderhowthedesigned environmentcanpositivelyimpactoccupants’mindsets, elevatetheirdailyexperience,andpotentiallyinspire connection,motivation,orpersonalgrowth.This philosophyaimstoimbuethefirm’sprojects–both residentialandcommercial–withadeeperlevelofimpact, providingadistinctvaluepropositionforclientsseeking morethanjustfunctionalstructures.
OperationalPillars:Leadership,StrategicBalance,and DualExpertise
Thefirm’soperationsappeargroundedinseveralkey principleschampionedbyMs.Christine:
· LeadershipStyle:Ms.Christinedescribesherapproach asleadingbyexample,emphasizingawillingnessto undertakeanytasksheasksofherstaff.Shecharacterizes herstyleas“gentlebutfirm.”Thishasfacilitatedmanaging adiverseteam,withpastandpresentcollaborations involvingprofessionalsfromvariousculturalbackgrounds (includingChinese,Hispanic,MiddleEastern,Serbian,and American).Sheactivelyfostersasupportive,“family-like kinship”amongstaff,attributingtheteam’scohesiontothis leadershipapproach.Furthermore,hercommitmentto work-lifebalance,bornfromherownexperiences, translatesintoofferingflexibilitytoheremployees,which sheconsidersasignificantaccomplishmentincreatinga positiveworkenvironment.Heropen-doorpolicyand constantcoordinationwiththeteamunderscoreahands-on leadershippresence.
· BalancingCreativityandStability:Ms.Christine acknowledgestheinherentchallengeinthecreativefields ofbalancinginnovationwithoperationalstability.She identifiesherselfasinherentlycreativebutpossessesa stronginstinctforgaugingappropriatelevelsofrisk.Unlike architectswhomaystagnateduetofearoffailure,she expressesconfidenceinpushingdesignboundarieswhile understandinglimitations.Thisself-awareness,coupled withabeliefinherabilityto“figureitout,”enables calculatedrisk-takingandcontinuousinnovationwithout jeopardizingthefirm’sstability
· ArtistandEngineerDuality:Ms.Christineviewsher abilitytooperateeffectivelyasbothan“artist”andan “engineer”withinthearchitecturalprocessasacore strength.Sheseamlesslyshiftsbetweenconceptualdesign (theartisticvision)andthetechnical,analyticalaspectsof execution.Shebelievesmasteringbothfacetsatahighlevel providesacompetitiveadvantage,allowingthefirmto
pursueambitiouscreativegoalswhilemaintainingthe structuralintegrityandfinancialviabilitynecessaryfor profitableoperation.
StrategicGrowthInitiatives:ExpandingServiceand Reach
DawnChristine,ArchitectPLLCdemonstratesaproactive approachtogrowthandserviceinnovationthroughseveral recentinitiatives:
· VirtualReality(VR)Experience:Thefirmis implementingVRtechnologytoallowclientstoimmerse themselvesinproposeddesignsbeforeconstructionbegins. Ms.Christinehighlightsthebusinessbenefit:VRhelps clientsbetterunderstandthescaleandfeelofaspace, empoweringthemtomakemoreinformeddesigndecisions andpotentiallystreamliningtheapprovalprocess.
· “DesignTalk”YouTubeChannel:Thisinitiative functionsasacontentmarketingandeducationalplatform. Thechannelaimstodemystifythedesignprocessfor potentialclientsbydocumentingcurrentprojects,featuring walkthroughswithbuildersandclients,anddiscussing designprinciples.Italsoshowcasesthefirm’sglobal perspective,usingexampleslikeatriptoNewZealandto illustratehowlandscape,architecture,andcommunity informexperientialdesign.Ms.Christineinvolvesher daughtersinthisproject.
· TheCrossPacificDesignGroup:Thisrepresentsa targetedinternationalexpansioneffort.Identifyingan opportunitybasedonherpersonalaffinityforNewZealand, Ms.Christineestablishedacollaborativegroupinvolvinga networkofarchitects,builders,andengineersinNew Zealand.Thisentityprovidesastreamlinedprocessfor Americanclientswishingtobuildthere,allowingthemto workwithMs.Christine’sUS-basedfirmfordesign,which isthentranslatedtomeetNewZealand’sstandardsand codesbythelocalpartners.
Theseinitiativesindicateastrategicfocusonenhancing clientexperience(VR),buildingbrandauthorityand educatingthemarket(YouTube),andexpandinggeographic reachthroughstructuredcollaboration(CrossPacific).
BuildingCapability:Hands-OnTalentDevelopment
Ms.Christineemploysahands-onapproachtonurturing talentwithinherfirm.Sheactivelyparticipatesindaily operations,providingdirectguidanceandsupporttoher
teamthroughouttheprojectdesignandproductionphases. Regularweeklymeetingsensurealignment,whileher consistentlyopenofficedoorfacilitatescontinuous communicationandproblem-solving.
Mentorshipisdescribedasanactive,ongoingprocess integratedintoprojectwork.Ms.Christineadaptsher guidancetoeachteammember’sspecificneedsand professionalaspirations.Examplesincludeassistinga licensedarchitectfromtheMiddleEastwithnavigatingUS citizenshiprequirements.Herstated“innatesenseof wantingtohelppeople,”extendingeventocheckinginwith unhiredinterviewees,fostersaculturewhereindividual growthisprioritized.Sheinveststimeinunderstanding teammembers’interestsandprovidesopportunitiesfor professionaldevelopment,viewingmentorshipasa cornerstoneofherleadership.
NavigatingChallenges:ResilienceandStrategic Response
Launchingandgrowingthefirmpresentedsignificant challenges,particularlygivenMs.Christine’sinitial circumstancesasasingleparentwithlimitedfinancial resources.Shefacedtheinherentvolatilityofthe architectureindustry,financialuncertainty,operational hurdles(managingworkflow,finances,hiring,finding workspace),andself-doubt.
WhileMs.Christineattributesovercomingtheseobstacles significantlytoherfaithandspiritualguidance(citing specificinspirationslikethesong“WalkonWater”andthe biblicalstoryofMoses),fromabusinessperspective,her actionsdemonstrateconsiderableresilienceandstrategic adaptation.Sheaddressedearlycommunicationissues stemmingfromword-of-mouthreferralsbyimplementing clearercontracts.Shemanagedfinancialpressuresthrough adiligentfocusonoperationalefficiency.Shenavigatedthe unknownsofentrepreneurshipthroughpersistenceand calculatedrisk-taking.Thisperiodunderscoresherabilityto maintainfocusandmakecriticaldecisionsunderpressure.
RecognitionandFoundationalExpertise
Ms.Christine’sworkhasgainedrecognition,including selectionforMarquisWho’sWho,basedonfactorslike position,accomplishments,andprominence.Heracademic backgroundincludesaMasterofArchitecturefromNorth CarolinaStateUniversityandabachelor’sdegreein designarchitecturefromtheUniversityofFlorida.Her
seniorthesisfocusedontheintersectionof architectureandthespatialexperienceof art,providinganearlyfoundationforher “experientialarchitect”philosophy.She alsoholdsLEEDcertificationfromthe USGBCTriangleChapter,indicating expertiseinsustainabledesignprinciples. Notably,Ms.Christineattributesher successsignificantlytoherabilityto effectivelyengagepotentialclientsand secureprojects,underscoringthe importancesheplacesonbusiness developmentskillsinarchitecture.
FutureOutlook:FocusedGrowthand Ambition
Currently,DawnChristineisfocusedon executingexistingcommitments, particularlyongoingdesignprojectsandthe initiativesofTheCrossPacificDesign Group.Sheisactivelynetworkingwith otherarchitectsintheRaleigh-Caryareato buildcollaborativecapacityfortackling larger,morecomplexprojects,witha specificinterestinhigh-risedesigns.
Whiletheprecisetrajectoryoverthenext fivetotenyearsremainsopen,depending onthetractionofcurrentventureslikethe NewZealandcollaborationandthe YouTubechannel,Ms.Christineexpresses optimismaboutthepotentialforsignificant growth.Sheplanstoexpandthefirm’s physicalpresence,particularlyfocusingon growinganofficeinFloridaduetopersonal connections.Herlong-termambition includesworkingoniconic,large-scale modernprojects,citingacityoperahouse asanexample.
Four Poems
That Break Your Heart Open And Stitch It Back Together
Therearepoemsthatdance. Therearepoemsthatdazzle. Andthentherearepoemsthat do somethingelse entirely
Theydon’taskforyourattention—theyreachinandtake it.Quietly.Fiercely.Likeachildtuggingatyoursleeveora memoryyouweren’treadytoremember.
Thesefourpoemsdidthattome.Theymademestopmidstep.Theymademesitdown.Theymademebreathein sharplyandpressahandtomychestthewaywedowhen wordstouchthesacredplacethathasnoname—the intersectionofacheandawe.
Soheretheyare.Fourpoemsaboutmotherhood—aboutthe giving,theholding,thelettinggo.Aboutthebrutal tendernessofraisingandbeingraised.Thesearenotjust poems;theyarewindowsintoroomsyoudidn'tknowyou keptlocked.
1. What Children Say
byKateBaer
Ican’treachmycup,mywaterbottle, thesnackupontheshelf.Ican’tdo it.Iwon’tdoit.Iwouldneverdoit inamillionyears.Youneedtohelp me.Helpmefaster.Doittheway Iaskedyouto.Idon’tlikepizzaor watermelon.Idon’tlikeanythingI likedbefore.Idonotwantit.Ido notneedit.Iwillnevermoveupoff thisfloor.Donothelpme.Donot holdme.Donotsitdownbesidemy bed.I'mnotsleeping.I’mnottired. I’mtooscaredtofallasleep.Youmust holdme.Youmustrockme.Donot leavemeallalone.Iamthirsty.Iam hungry.Iamtootiredtoputmytoys away.Donotbeangry.Donotstart singing.WhereisthebutterflyIdrew? I’mstillhungry.I’mstillplaying.Will youleaveme?Willyoustay?
KateBaercapturesparenthood’smostmaddening, hilarious,humblinghours—thosemomentswhen yourchildiscryingforyounottohelp and tohold themtighter at the same time.It’spoetrythatknows thetrenches—thewaysomelovelookslike exhaustion,likerepeatingyourself1,000times,like stayingevenwhenyou'renotsurehow
2. The Lanyard
byBillyCollins
TheotherdayIwasricochetingslowly offthebluewallsofthisroom, movingasifunderwaterfromtypewritertopiano, frombookshelftoanenvelopelyingonthefloor, whenIfoundmyselfintheLsectionofthedictionary wheremyeyesfelluponthewordlanyard.
NocookienibbledbyaFrenchnovelist couldsendoneintothepastmoresuddenly— apastwhereIsatataworkbenchatacamp byadeepAdirondacklake learninghowtobraidlongthinplasticstrips intoalanyard,agiftformymother.
Ihadneverseenanyoneusealanyard orwearone,ifthat’swhatyoudidwiththem, butthatdidnotkeepmefromcrossing strandoverstrandagainandagain untilIhadmadeaboxy redandwhitelanyardformymother.
Shegavemelifeandmilkfromherbreasts, andIgaveheralanyard. Shenursedmeinmanyasickroom, liftedspoonsofmedicinetomylips, laidcoldface-clothsonmyforehead, andthenledmeoutintotheairylight andtaughtmetowalkandswim, andI,inturn,presentedherwithalanyard. Herearethousandsofmeals,shesaid, andhereisclothingandagoodeducation. Andhereisyourlanyard,Ireplied, whichImadewithalittlehelpfromacounselor
Thispoemisachorusofcontradictions—thedaily negotiationsandemotionalweathersystemsofchildhood. It’sallhere:thesmalltyranniesofsnacktime,theemotional whiplashofbedtime,thedesperateneedforindependence thatcollapsesinstantlyintothedesperateneedforyou.
Hereisabreathingbodyandabeatingheart, stronglegs,bonesandteeth, andtwocleareyestoreadtheworld,shewhispered, andhere,Isaid,isthelanyardImadeatcamp.
Andhere,Iwishtosaytohernow, isasmallergift—nottheworntruth
thatyoucanneverrepayyourmother, buttheruefuladmissionthatwhenshetook thetwo-tonelanyardfrommyhand, Iwasassureasaboycouldbe thatthisuseless,worthlessthingIwove outofboredomwouldbeenoughtomakeuseven.
Ican’treadthisonewithoutlaughing—andthencryingbefore thenextlineends.
BillyCollins,withhissignaturewitandundercutofgrief,takes usthroughthatinevitablerealization: you can never repay your mother. Notwithlanyards.Notwithapoem.Notwithanything.
Youtry,ofcourse.Yougrowup,youbraidyourgratitudeinto smalltokens—plasticcrafts,burnttoastbreakfasts,longdistancecalls.Butsomewheredeepinside,youalwaysknow: shegaveyoutheuniverse,andallyouhaveisstring.
Thispoemisforanyonewho’severlookedbackatchildhood andwinced—atthecluelessofferings,thewell-meantefforts, theunspokenbeliefthatmaybe,justmaybe,thatmacaroni necklace was enough.Untilyouknowbetter.Andlovehereven moreforneverasking.
3. The Committee Weighs In
byAndreaCohen
Itellmymother I’vewontheNobelPrize.
Again?shesays.Which disciplinethistime?
It’salittlegame weplay:Ipretend
I’msomebody,she pretendssheisn’tdead.
Thispoemisforthoseofuswhohavelostamother—or anyonewelovedenoughtoinventfantasiesjusttoheartheir voiceagain.
It’sajoke.It’saprayer.It’salittlegamebetweenadaughter andaghost.ShewinsaNobel.Hermother,fromwherevershe is,raisesasardoniceyebrow— again?
Welaugh.Andthenweremember:thedead neverreallyleaveus.Notwhenwekeepinviting thembackinwithstories,withpoems,with pretendphonecallsaboutimaginaryprizes.
4. Mother, ACradle to Hold Me
byMayaAngelou
Itistrue
Iwascreatedinyou. Itisalsotrue
Thatyouwerecreatedforme. Iownedyourvoice. Itwasshapedandtunedtosootheme. Yourarmsweremolded Intoacradletoholdme,torockme. Thescentofyourbodywastheair Perfumedformetobreathe.
Mother,
Duringthoseearly,dearestdays Ididnotdreamthatyouhad Alargelifewhichincludedme, ForIhadalife Whichwasonlyyou.
Timepassedsteadilyanddrewusapart. Iwasunwilling. IfearedifIletyougo Youwouldleavemeeternally. Yousmiledatmyfears,saying Icouldnotstayinyourlapforever.
Thatonedayyouwouldhavetostand AndwherewouldIbe? Yousmiledagain. Ididnot.
Withoutwarningyouleftme, Butyoureturnedimmediately. Youleftagainandreturned, Iadmit,quickly,
Butreliefdidnotrestwithmeeasily Youleftagain,butagainreturned. Youleftagain,butagainreturned. Eachtimeyoureenteredmyworld Youbroughtassurance. SlowlyIgainedconfidence.
Youthoughtyouknowme, ButIdidknowyou,
Youthoughtyouwerewatchingme, ButIdidholdyousecurelyinmysight, Recordingeverymoment, Memorizingyoursmiles,tracingyourfrowns. Inyourabsence
Irehearsedyou, Thewayyouhadofsinging Onabreeze, Whileasoblay Attherootofyoursong.
Thewayyouposedyourhead
Sothatthelightcouldcaressyourface
Whenyouputyourfingersonmyhand
Andyourhandonmyarm, Iwasblessedwithasenseofhealth, Ofstrengthandverygoodfortune.
Youwerealways theheartofhappinesstome, Bringingnougatsofglee, Sweetsofopenlaughter
Ilovedyouevenduringtheyears Whenyouknewnothing
AndIkneweverything,Ilovedyoustill. Condescendinglyofcourse, Frommyhighperch Ofteenagewisdom. Ispokesharplyofyou,often Becauseyouwereslowtounderstand. Igrewolderand Wasstunnedtofind Howmuchknowledgeyouhadgleaned. Andsoquickly
Mother,Ihavelearnedenoughnow
ToknowIhavelearnednearlynothing. Onthisday
Whenmothersarebeinghonored, Letmethankyou
Thatmyselfishness,ignorance,andmockery Didnotbringyouto Discardmelikeabrokendoll
Whichhadlostitsfavor
Ithankyouthat Youstillfindsomethinginme Tocherish,toadmireandtolove.
Thisone…thisoneisanocean.
MayaAngelou’stributetohermotherisasweeping,cinematic actofreverence—thekindthatspansfrominfancyto adulthoodandbackagain.It'sthestoryofthearmsthatrocked you,thevoicethatsoothedyou,thedisciplinethatshapedyou, andtheforgivenessthatlovedyouevenwhenyouwere unlovable.
Thepoemstretchesthroughtimelikeonlyamothercan:from thedayswhenshewasyourwholeworld,totheyearswhenyou thoughtyouknewbetter,tothemomentyoufinallyunderstood howmuchshetrulyknew
Ifyouhaveamother,hadamother,lostamother, became a mother—thispoemwillmeetyouwhereveryouare.
AFinalWordfromtheHeart
Readingthesepoems,Iwasremindedthat motherhood is a love letter constantly being revised. Thattomother—orbe mothered—istoliveinastateofconstantbecoming.Itis neverfinished.Neverperfect.Butalways,alwayssacred. Ifyourheartfeelstoofullrightnow,takeamoment.Letit swell.Letitache.That’swhatgoodpoemsdo—theyhold spaceforeverythingatonce.
Ithankyou,Mother Iloveyou.
TheNorthAmericanmarketforenterprisedigital
commercepresentsaformidablechallenge.It demandssophisticatedtechnologyplatforms capableofhandlingimmensecomplexity,coupledwith strategicleadershipadeptatnavigatingrapidtechnological shiftsanddiverseclientneedsacrossmultipleindustries. Succeedinginthisenvironmentrequiresnotonlyarobust productofferingbutalsoastuteregionalleadershipcapableof tailoringglobalcapabilitiestolocalmarketdynamicsand drivingcommercialsuccess.
DanielaJuradoservesastheExecutiveVicePresidentfor NorthAmericaatVTEX(NYSE:VTEX),holdingdirect responsibilityforthecompany’sperformanceinthiscritical region.Hermandateencompassesleadingthesales, marketing,andsolutionengineeringfunctions–thecore commercialengineforVTEXintheUSandCanada.Hertask involvesleveragingVTEX’sglobalenterprisecommerce platformtowinmarketshareanddelivermeasurablevaluefor someoftheworld'smostrecognizedbrands,citing partnershipswithcompanieslikeAdidas,Hmart,and Whirlpoolasexamplesofthecaliberofclientssheengages.
ThisanalysisexaminesMs.Jurado’sstrategicapproach,the toolssheemploysfromtheVTEXportfolio,thechallenges shenavigates,andtheleadershipphilosophythatunderpins herdirectionofVTEX'sNorthAmericanoperations.
Jurado’sStrategicToolkit:LeveragingtheVTEX Platform
AkeyresponsibilityforMs.Juradoiseffectivelydeploying VTEX'splatformarchitecturetomeetthevariedneedsof NorthAmericanenterprises.Sheworkswithtwoprimary architecturalapproachesofferedbyVTEX:
1.ComposableArchitecture:Ms.Juradoutilizes theconceptofcomposability–building systemsfrommodular,interchangeable components–toofferclientsmaximum flexibility Thisapproach,whichVTEXterms “PragmaticComposability,”allowsher teamstoguideclientsinintegratingnew technologiesorcapabilitiessequentially, aligningwiththeirimmediatebusiness prioritieswithoutnecessitatingacomplete systemoverhaul.Sherecognizesthevalueof relatedconceptslikeheadlesscommerce (decouplingfrontend/backend)and microservices(small,independentprocesses) withinthisframeworkforclientsprioritizing adaptabilityandinnovation.
2.CompletePlatform:Forclientsrequiring fasterdeployment,reducedcomplexity,or morestandardizedoperations,Ms.Jurado leveragesVTEX’s“Complete”platform.This providesacomprehensivesuiteofrobustoutof-the-boxcapabilities,includingspecific featuresformanagingCustomerCreditand complexB2BOrganizations,allowing businessesto“plugandgo-live”morequickly.
Ms.Jurado’sstrategictaskinvolvesguidingNorth Americanclientstowardthearchitecturalapproach –composable,complete,oroftenapragmaticblend –thatbestsuitstheirspecificbusinessmodel, technicalreadiness,andlong-termobjectives.This requireshersalesandsolutionengineeringteamsto possessadeepunderstandingofboththeclient’s businessandVTEX’stechnologicalcapabilities.
DemonstratingValue:Jurado’sCaseforVTEX inNorthAmerica
InthecompetitiveNorthAmericanmarket, demonstratingatangiblereturnoninvestmentis paramount.Ms.Juradoutilizesdataandcase studiestobuildthebusinesscaseforVTEX.Akey toolinherarsenalistheForresterConsulting “TotalEconomicImpact”(TEI)study commissionedbyVTEX.Shecanpointtoits findings–suchasareported133%ROIwithin threeyearsofmigrationandUS$5.8millionin savingscomparedtolegacyplatforms–as quantitativeevidenceoftheplatform’sfinancial benefits.
Furthermore,shedrawsuponspecificclient successes,relevanttotheindustriesherteams target,toillustratepracticaloutcomes:
· HowMotorolautilizedVTEX’s adaptabilityforfastergloballaunches andachieved20%annuale-commerce growth.
· HowBelcorpgainednecessarybusiness agilitybymigratingfromacumbersome legacysystem(SAPHybris)toVTEX’s flexiblearchitecture.
· HowaB2BcompanylikeBriggs& StrattonleveragedVTEX’scomposable features(VTEXIO)tomodernize operationsandenhancecustomer experience.
PresentingtheseexamplesallowsMs.Jurado andherteamstotranslateplatformfeatures intoconcretebusinessadvantageslike increasedefficiency(developerandmarketing teamsreportedlysawgainsupto50%by yearthreepertheTEIstudy),fasterspeed-tomarket,andimprovedgrowthtrajectories.
NavigatingMarketDynamics:Jurado’s StrategicPerspective
LeadingVTEXinNorthAmericarequires Ms.Juradotoconstantlyassessmarkettrends andadaptherstrategy.Sheidentifiesseveral keyfactorsinfluencingherapproach:
· EconomicPressures:Risingcustomer acquisitioncostsdemandsolutionsthat optimizeperformanceanddemonstrate clearROI–reinforcingtheimportance oftheTEIstudydataandefficiency gains.
· TechnologyIntegration(AI): Recognizingthekeeninterestin ArtificialIntelligence,particularlyfor applicationslikedemandforecasting, Ms.Juradoensuresherteamsare proficientinpositioningtheVTEXData Pipeline.ThisintegratedAIsolution aimstostreamlinedatainfrastructurefor clientsandprovidetailoredinsights, presentingacompetitiveadvantage.
· EnhancedSecurityNeeds:Withgrowingtransaction volumes,Ms.JuradoemphasizestheimportanceofVTEX Shieldasacomprehensivesecurityoffering(includingrealtimemonitoring,vulnerabilityassessmentreadiness,and firewallprotection)toaddressclientconcerns.
· ImmersiveCustomerExperiences:Observingtheriseof livetechnologies,Ms.JuradopositionsVTEXasaplatform readytosupportliveshoppingandconciergecommerce, enablingbrandstobuilddeeperconnectionsanddrive conversionsthroughinnovativechannels.
· OmnichannelComplexity&Data:Ms.Juradofocuseson VTEX'sabilitytofacilitateseamlessomnichannel transformationsandprovidesolutionsthatcentralizecrucial data(inventory,loyalty,sales)formoreinformeddecisionmakingandoperationalefficiency
Herstrategyinvolvesnotjustreactingtothesetrends butproactivelyincorporatingrelevantVTEX innovationsandacquisitions–liketheAI-powered customerservicecapabilitiesgainedthroughthe Weniacquisitionortheenhancedbehavioral predictionmodelsresultingfromtheSynerise investment–intothesolutionsproposedtoNorth Americanclients.High-profileeventslikeVTEX CONNECTNYC(scheduledJan13,2025, featuringSimoneBiles)alsoserveasplatforms underherpurviewtoengageregionalleadersand showcaseVTEX'sthoughtleadership.
TheLeaderHerself:Resilience,Adaptability,and Vision
Ms.Jurado’sleadershipinthedemandingNorth Americanmarketisinformedbyherown professionaljourneywithinVTEXandthe challengesshehasnavigated.Herprogressionfrom leadingtheLatinAmericanPartnerProgramin2015 tolaunchingoperationsinItalyandeventually managingtheentireEMEAregion(70people across7countries)providedherwithinvaluable cross-culturalandoperationalexperience.
Shespeakscandidlyaboutovercomingskepticism encounteredasayoung,Latinwomanleadinga Braziliantechcompany’sexpansioninEurope.Her approachwasnottoshyawaybuttoearnrespect throughdemonstratedexpertiseandthequalityof herinsights–atestamenttoherresilience.She activelylearnsfromsetbacks,utilizingapersonal “debrief”processafterdifficultsituations(like losingsignificantdealsorkeyteammembers)to analyzefailuresandimplementcorrectivemeasures, turningchallengesintoopportunitiesforstrategic refinement.Whileacknowledgingthepotential isolationofseniorroles,shecreditsVTEXCofounderMarianoGomideforprovidingcrucial mentorship.
Herleadershipphilosophyemphasizescorevalues shedeemsessentialfornavigatingtoday'svolatile environment:
· ResilienceandOptimism:Maintaininga positiveoutlookdespiteuncontrollableexternal factors.
· DisciplineandFocus:Leadingbyexampleand inspiringteamsthroughaction.
· Adaptability:Recognizingflexibilityascritical fororganizationalsuccess.
· A“HumanFirst”Approach:Leadingwith compassionandacknowledgingtheintegration ofprofessionalandpersonallives.
TheseprinciplesguidehermanagementoftheNorth Americansales,marketing,andsolutionengineering teamsandshapeherinteractionswithclientsand partners.Hercommitmentextendstofosteringfuture talent,reflectedinherguestlecturingengagementsat USuniversities.
Conclusion:DrivingVTEX’sNorthAmerican Ambition
AsExecutiveVicePresidentforNorthAmerica, DanielaJuradoholdsacriticalpositionwithin VTEX’sglobalstructure.Herleadershipinvolves morethanmanagingregionaloperations;itrequires strategicallyapplyingVTEX’ssophisticatedplatform capabilities–balancingcomposableflexibilitywith out-of-the-boxcompleteness–tomeetthespecific, complexdemandsofNorthAmericanenterprises. Sheleveragesquantitativedata,clientsuccesses,and akeenunderstandingofmarkettrendstobuildthe caseforVTEXwhilenavigatingcompetitive pressuresandeconomicuncertainty.
Herpersonaljourneyunderscoresresilienceand adaptability,qualitiesreflectedinherleadership philosophy.Byfocusingonmeasurableresults, strategicpartnerships,continuousinnovation,anda client-centricapproachinformedbydeepindustry experience,Ms.JuradoworkstosolidifyVTEX’s positionanddriveitscontinuedgrowthinoneofthe world’smostimportantdigitalcommercemarkets. Herlegacygoal–toberememberedforhelping shapethecareersofothers–furtherinformsher commitmenttoimpactfulleadership.
IN THE HEART OF THE STORM
Inaworldoftenoverwhelmedbynoiseand
indifference,storieslikethesesingwithtruth.
April2025markstwoyearssinceSudan,anationonce brimmingwithresilience,wasthrustintoaprolonged anddevastatingwar.Over12.6millionpeoplehavebeen displaced.Theairstillechoeswithloss,andthesilence ofabsentvoiceshangsheavy.Butwithinthatsilence, therearethosewhochoosetospeak,toact,andtocare.
Dr.AsmaElnaeemandDr.HibaAhmedaretwosuch voices—unyieldingandradiantinthemidstof unimaginablechaos.
ANationinRuins,aSystemCollapsed
Sudan’shealthcareinfrastructureliesbroken.Clinics looted.Hospitalsburned.Doctorsandnursesscatteredor silenced.InNorthKordofanalone,theneedis overwhelming.AccordingtotheUnitedNations,
over30millionpeoplerequirehumanitarianassistance, andsexualandgender-basedviolence(SGBV)is escalatingatanalarmingrate.
Inthislandscapeofcollapse,twowomen—armedwith compassionandconviction—arebuildingsanctuariesof healing.
Dr.Asma:
AMother,AMartyrofGrace
ForDr Asma,thewardidn’tjusttakeacountry.Ittookher child.
In2023,shewassevenmonthspregnantwhenviolence torethroughherhometownofGeneina.Sheandherfamily hadnotransport,norefuge—onlyadonkeycartandthe willtosurvive.The25-dayjourneyendedinheartbreak. Withoutmedicalaid,shemiscarried.Butevenamidsther personalloss,Asmachosetorise.
SheacceptedanofferfromtheSudanFamilyPlanning Association(SFPA)toestablishahealthfacilityinthe BlueNileState.Herfamily,nowrelocatedtoEgyptfor safety,remainsphysicallydistant.YetAsma remains—anchoredbyduty,treatingsurvivorsofsexual violence,offeringpost-abortioncare,deliveringdignitykits andcleandeliverysuppliestowomenwhohavenothing.
"One woman lost her baby during the early days of the conflict. She bled in silence, sitting over a hole she dug in her yard, waiting for help that never came. By the time I reached her, it was too late.”
Asthma’svoicedoesn’tquiver.Itholdsthestrengthof everywomanshehasevertreated.
Dr.Hiba:CarryingtheInvisibleLoad
Meanwhile,inthebackground—butneveroutof reach—worksDr.HibaAhmed,the53-year-oldDirector ofEmergencyandHumanitarianInterventionsatSFPA. Herstrengthliesincoordination,inadvocacy,institching togetheratornsystemwiththreadsofwill.
Whenwarerupted,HibafledKhartoumwithherchildren. TheyfoundtemporaryrefugeinEgypt.Thetransitioncame withaprice—educationinterrupted,futuresuncertain.Asa widow,theweightwasheavier.Butshecontinued,ensuring thatmobileclinicsreachedrefugeecamps,thatmidwivesin warzonesreceivedtraining,andthathealthcentersacross 14statescouldofferatleastsomesemblanceofcare.
“We are the only clinic supporting HIV patients in the Umrakuba and Tunaydbah camps. Over 750 people rely on us. But budget cuts are forcing us to close doors we never wanted to shut.”
Herstoryisnotjustaboutlogistics.It'saboutlove—forher country,forherpeople,forthedignityeveryhumanbeing deserves,nomatterhowfragiletheircircumstance.
Hope,HeldTogetherbyWomen
Despitedestructionanddisplacement,SFPA—withthe unwaveringdedicationofprofessionalslikeAsmaand Hiba—continuestoprovide:
· Primaryhealthcareandreproductiveservicesacross 15branchesin14states
· Emergencycontraceptionandpost-abortioncare
· Psychologicalsupportforrapesurvivors
· HIVcounselingandcare
· Mobileclinicsforinternallydisplacedpersons
· Awarenesssessionsongender-basedviolence
Andallofthisisdonewithdwindlingfunds,destroyed facilities,andaworldthathaslargelyturneditseyes elsewhere.
ACalltoPresence,ACalltoWitness
InSudan,warhasstolentoomuch—butithasnot stolenthewilltoheal.
AsmaandHibaarenotjustdoctors.Theyarelifelines. Theyarewhatresiliencelookslikewhenwrappedin maternalgrief,inprofessionalexhaustion,andin sacredcourage.
Theworldmayseenumbers:30millioninneed.8.6 milliondisplaced.3.8millionforcedacrossborders. Butbehindthosenumbersarenames,faces,andstories thatdemandtobeheldwithreverence.
Andifwe,theglobalcommunity,canmeettheir couragewithevenafractionofourown—through awareness,advocacy,andaction—perhapsSudan's nextchapterwillbeoneofrestoration.
Becausegraceisnotafeeling.It’swhatyoudoin thefire.
DR. MITZE BURNETT
Architecting Growth and Quality in Therapeutic Services through Disciplined Leadership
Theprovisionoftherapeuticservices,particularly forindividualsfacingdevelopmentalandmental healthchallenges,demandsarareblendof specializedknowledgeandastutebusinessmanagement. Successinthisfieldrequiresmorethangoodintentions;it necessitatesclearvision,operationalrigor,anddecisive leadership.Dr.MitzeBurnett,theFounderandChief ExecutiveOfficerofBurnettTherapeuticServices (BTS),demonstratesthesequalities.
Overnearlyadecade,shehassystematicallybuiltBTS fromaconceptintoasignificantproviderofApplied BehaviorAnalysis(ABA)andMentalHealthTherapy acrossmultipleCaliforniacounties.TheBTSstoryis instructive,offeringinsightsintohowprincipledleadership canfosterbothmeaningfulimpactandsustainable organizationalgrowthinacomplexhumanservicessector
TheCatalyst:IdentifyingNeed,Foundingthe Enterprise
Effectiveleadersoftenemergefromdirectexperience withintheirfield.Dr.Burnett'sjourneybegannotin managementtheory,butinthepracticalapplicationof behavioralscience.HerworkasaBehaviorConsultant withinanABAagencyprovidedfirsthandinsightintothe needsofindividualswithdevelopmentaldisabilities.She recognizedboththepotentialofABAandtheconcurrent needforintegratedmentalhealthsupport.This understanding,coupledwithacleardrivetoprovide
comprehensivecare,directlyledhertoestablishBurnett TherapeuticServicesin2015.Thedecisionwasnotmerely anexpressionofpassion,butacalculatedmovetofillan identifiedgapinserviceprovision,combiningABA expertisewithbroadermentalhealthservicesunderone operationalroof.
TheOperationalFramework:Services,Structure,and Scope
BurnettTherapeuticServicesoperateswithadefined mission:toprovideevidence-based,effectivecarethat empowersindividualsandfamilies.HeadquarteredinNapa, California,theorganizationdeliversABAandMental HealthTherapyservicestailoredtoindividualswithAutism SpectrumDisorder(ASD),Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD),neurodevelopmentaldisabilities,and variousmentalhealthconditions.
Theserviceportfolioiscomprehensive.BTSprovides individualizedtreatmentplansforchildren,youth,adults, couples,andfamilies.Keyservicecomponentsinclude communicationtraining,adaptiveskill-building,coping skillsdevelopment,familysupportwork,therapeutic counseling,andbehavioraltherapy Theorganization emphasizesafamily-centeredapproach,working collaborativelywithclientsandtheirsupportsystems.BTS hassteadilyexpandeditsoperationalfootprintbeyondNapa County,nowservingcommunitiesinSolano,Sonoma, Sacramento,Fresno,andStanislauscounties.
Thisgeographicexpansionreflectsadeliberatestrategyto makespecializedservicesaccessibletounderserved populations.Furthermore,BTSidentifiedspecific communityneedsandisstrategicallyexpandingits offeringstoincludeAutismandADHDevaluations, OccupationalTherapy,andSpeechandLanguageTherapy, broadeningitscapacityforcomprehensivesupport.
LeadershipPrinciples:CalculatedRiskandStrategic ResourceAllocation
Dr.Burnettapproachesleadershipwithacleardecisionmakingframework,particularlyregardingrisk.She employsastraightforwardassessment:Howwillapotential risk-benefitclients,andhowwillitbenefitstaff?Ifacareful evaluationdeterminesthatthepotentialadvantagesfor currentandfutureclientssufficientlyoutweighthebusiness risks,sheproceeds,albeitwithcautionandcontinuous monitoring.Thisframeworkensuresthatgrowthinitiatives remainalignedwiththecoremissionofservicedelivery.
Furthermore,Dr.Burnettviewsfinancialgainsnotasan endgoal,butasaresourceforreinvestment.Profitsare strategicallyallocatedbackintotheorganizationtoenhance servicequalityandimprovetheworkenvironmentfor employees.Thisreinvestmentstrategysupports infrastructure,training,andresourcesthatdirectlybenefit clients.Simultaneously,itfostersprofessionaldevelopment opportunitiesforstaff,particularlythoseaspiringto leadershiproleswithinBTS.Thisdualfocus–clientbenefit andstaffsupport–underpinstheorganization'soperational philosophyandcontributestoitsstabilityandcapacityfor growth.
MaintainingStandards:QualityAssuranceinan ExpandingOrganization
Rapidgrowthpresentsasignificantchallengeforany serviceorganization:maintainingqualitycontrol.Dr Burnettrecognizedthisearly.BTSaddressesthischallenge throughrobustinternalstructuresandacommitmentto continuousimprovement.Sheestablishedstrongclinical leadershiproles,entrustingkeyoperationaloversightto experiencedprofessionalslikeVPofClinicalOperations, AmyMontanez,andDirectorofClientServices,Melissa Holbrook.TheirexpertiseinAutismandABAanchorsthe clinicaldepartments,ensuringadherencetobestpractices andhighstandardsofcareevenastheorganizationscales.
Beyondformalstructure,Dr.Burnettcultivatesaculture centeredonprofessionalgrowthandsharedknowledge.
BTSactivelyencouragesteammemberstoattendrelevant industryconferences,shareresearchfindings,andbuild professionalpartnerships.Thisemphasisoncontinuous learningkeepstheteaminformedaboutadvancementsin thefield.Mentorshipandteamworkareintegral componentsoftheorganizationalculture,creatingan environmentwherestaffcandevelopskillsandlearn collaboratively.Thisinternalecosystemsupportsthe consistentdeliveryofhigh-qualitycareacrossallservice areas.
CrisisManagement:NavigatingthePandemicwith ClarityandCare
TheCOVID-19pandemicpresentedanunprecedented operationaltestforBTS,demandingimmediateactionto protectbothclientsandstaffwhileensuringthecontinuity
ofessentialservices.Dr.Burnettrespondeddecisively.She quicklyassembledaspecializedadvisoryteamcomprisinga physician,anursepractitioner,anAutismconsultant,andan attorney.Thisexpertgroupdevelopedcomprehensivesafety protocolsgroundedinpublichealthguidanceandtailoredto thespecificneedsofBTS'sclientpopulationandservice deliverymodels.
Critically,BTSofferedfamiliesflexibility.Clientscould choosetheirpreferredmethodofservicedelivery–telehealthorin-person.Forthoseoptingforin-person services,BTSimplementedstrictsafetymeasures.These includeddailyhealthchecksandadherencetoestablished protocolsforbothstaffandfamilies.Simultaneously,BTS accelerateditsadoptionoftechnology Theorganization rapidlytransitionedmanyfunctionstosecure,HIPAAcompliantcloud-basedapplications.Thisswifttechnological adaptationenabledtheeffectivedeliveryoftelehealth services,overcominglogisticalbarriersliketraveland scheduling,andensuringclientscouldcontinuetherapywith minimaldisruption.Dr.Burnett'sleadershipduringthis perioddemonstratedadaptability,clearcommunication,and anunwaveringcommitmenttoclientandstaffwell-being.
StrategicAdvancement:Innovation,Partnerships,and IndustryEngagement
Dr.BurnettensuresBTSremainsrelevantandforwardthinkingthroughactiveengagementwithinnovationand industrydevelopments.Theorganizationparticipatesinpilot programsandformsstrategicpartnershipstoexplorenew servicemodelsandaddressemergingneedswithinthe communitiesitserves.Anotableexampleisthe2022 collaborationwithCatalightCareServicesonthe"Chat" pilotprogram.Thisinitiativeofferedvaluablesupportfor Kaisermembersfocusingondevelopmentalmilestonesand communicationskills,providingaflexibleoptionfor familieswhomightnotrequiretraditionalABAtherapybut couldbenefitfromtargetedsupport.BTS'sinvolvementin multiplepilotprogramsdemonstratesaproactiveapproach toservicediversification.
Furthermore,BTSactivelyparticipatesinthebroader industrydialogue.Forthreeconsecutiveyears,the organizationhassponsoredtheAutismInvestorSummit. Thisinvolvementreflectsacommitmentnotonlytoservice deliverybutalsotoshapingthefuturelandscapeofautism servicesandadvocatingforpoliciesthatbenefitindividuals withmentalhealthanddevelopmentaldisabilities.This strategicengagementpositionsBTSasacontributortothe field'sadvancement.
CurrentStandingandFutureCourse
Today,BurnettTherapeuticServicesemploysadiverse teamofprofessionals,rangingfromBehaviorTechnicians deliveringdirectclientservicestoBoardCertifiedBehavior Analystsoverseeingtreatmentplans.Theorganization successfullyservesthousandsacrossitsmulti-county servicearea.Asignificantmilestonewastheplanned openingofanewclinicinModesto,California;basedon theoriginaltimelineofNovember2024,thisfacilityshould nowbeoperational[asofApril2025],furtherextendingthe organization'sreach.Theoverarchinggoalremainsclear:to continueexpandingaccessible,high-qualitymentalhealth andAutism/ABAservicestofamiliesthroughoutCalifornia.
Conclusion:LeadershipastheCornerstoneof TherapeuticSuccess
The trajectory of Burne Therapeu c Services under Dr. Mitze Burne offers valuable instruc on in leadership. Her success stems not from a single ini a ve, but from the consistent applica on of core principles: strategic vision rooted in field experience, disciplined opera onal management, calculated risk assessment focused on stakeholder benefit, proac ve crisis management, and a commitment to quality through strong internal structures and con nuous learning. Dr. Burne has demonstrated that building a successful therapeu c service organiza on requires both clinical understanding and sound business prac ce. Her leadership provides a clear model for how to effec vely manage growth while staying true to a mission centered on human well-being. The results achieved by BTS serve as compelling evidence of her effec veness.
THE BRAVE ONES 5 Women Leading the Fight Against Sexual Violence
in Conict
Becausesilenceisnotstrength.And stories,whentoldbravely,become power.
EveryyearonJune19th,theworld pausestorecognizethe International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.It’snotjust anotherawarenessday—it’sa reckoning.Areminderthatintheheart ofwar,women’sbodiesaretoooften usedasbattlefields.Thatrapeand sexualviolencearen’t“byproducts”of war—theyareweapons.
AtWomenforWomen International,we’vestoodbeside survivorsfordecades.We’vesatin circlewithwomenwhocarrystories intheirbones—storiesofloss,of terror,ofstaggeringresilience.And here’sthetruth:sexualviolencein conflictisn’tinevitable.It’sachoice madebysystems,andsystemscanbe changed.
Acrosstheglobe,womenarerising. Notwithpolishedspeechesor politicalspin,butwithtruth-telling, grassrootshealing,andrelentless advocacy Theyaretheonesholding justiceinonehandandcompassionin theother Theyarebreakingshame witheverybreath.
Herearefiveofthem.Andyou shouldknowtheirnames.
1.NadiaMurad:FromSurvivorto NobelLaureate
“Iwasnottheonlyonewhosuffered, andIwillnotbethelast,unless somethingisdone.”
NadiaMuradwas21whenISISturnedherlifeintoash. Kidnapped,enslaved,brutalized—sheenduredwhatno oneshould.ButNadiadidn’tstaysilent.Shewalkedoutof theshadowsandspokehertruth,againandagain,untilthe worldcouldnolongerlookaway
NowaNobelPeacePrizewinnerandthefounderof Nadia’s Initiative,she’sworkingtorebuildcommunities tornapartbygenocideandtoholdperpetratorsaccountable. Hercourageredefinessurvival—notjustenduring,but reclaiming.Notjusthealing,butleading.
2.JulienneLusenge:TheVoiceThatWouldNotBe Quiet
Beforeshewasaninternationallyrecognizedactivist, JulienneLusengewasaradiojournalistintheDemocratic RepublicoftheCongo.Whenwarcameandwomen’s storiesofrapeandtraumastartedfloodingherstudio,she didn’tjustreportthem—shecarriedthem.Amplifiedthem. Foughtforthem.
Julienneco-foundedSOFEPADI,agrassrootsorganization thatsupportssurvivors,provideslegalaid,andinsistson accountability.ShealsolaunchedtheFundforCongolese Women,nurturinglocalwomen’sleadership.Julienne doesn’tjustfightforjustice—shebuildsthemicrophone forotherstospeakinto.
3.CarenOmanga:JusticeWithaScholar’sSoul
Youmightnotseeherinviralheadlines—butCaren Omanga'sworkrunsdeep.She’sanactivist,ascholar,a Kenyanadvocatewhosefightforjusticehappensin courtrooms,classrooms,andcommunityhallsacrossAfrica.
Withabackgroundininternationallawandtransitional justice,Carenhasshapedsurvivor-centeredpoliciesthat ripplefarbeyondlegalreform.Herworkreimagineswhat justice could looklike:notjustpunishment,buthealing. Notjustresponse,butprevention.
Sheremindsusthatsystemschangewhenwechangehow welisten.
4.ZainabBangura:FromCivilWartotheUnited Nations
Therearepeoplewhotalkaboutchange,andthenthereare peoplelikeZainabBangura—whocarryitontheirback acrossbordersandintobrokenrooms.
ZainabisaformerMinisterinSierraLeoneanda formerSpecialRepresentativeoftheUNSecretaryGeneralonSexualViolenceinConflict.She’swalked intowarzoneswherewomen’sbodieswereusedlike currency—andwalkedoutcarryingtestimoniestothe highestlevelsofpower
Sheledthechargebehind UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict,pressinggovernmentsand militariestofacethetruth.Herlegacyisclear:dignity doesn'tbelongtothepowerful—itbelongstothe survivors.
5.SisterAngeliqueNamaika:TheQuietRebelwitha Rosary
Intheconflict-riddencornersoftheCongo,Sister AngeliqueNamaikaisalight—nottheblindingkind, butthekindyoufollowhome.
ACatholicnunandthefounderofthe Centre for the Rehabilitation of Women and Children,shehashelped thousandsofsurvivorsrebuildtheirlives.Notwithpity, butwithpower—throughvocationaltraining, counseling,shelter,andbelief.
SisterAngeliquedoesn’tneedapplause.Herrevolution happensindailybread,quietrooms,andrestoredselfworth.Sheisfaithinmotion.Sheiswhatlovelookslike whenitrefusestogiveup.
ThisisWhatCourageLooksLike
Thesefivewomenarenotjustadvocates.Theyare architectsofnewrealities.
Inaworldwhererapeisusedasatacticofwar—where shame,stigma,andsilencestillsilencetoomany—they choosesomethingradical:tospeak.Toact.Tolove louderthanviolence.
Andsocanwe.
Onthis International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict,let’sdomorethanpost.Let’sbear witness.Let’sfundsurvivor-ledorganizations.Let’scall forlawsthatprotect,notpunish.Let’sbelievewomen. Let’screateaworldwherenoonehastobebravejustto survive.
Becausejusticeisn’tadream.It’sadecision.
Seniorexecutivesoperatingwithinlarge, complexorganizationsfacedistinctchallenges, particularlyduringperiodsofsignificantcareer transition–assumingnewleadershiproles,navigating organizationalshifts,orcontemplatingmajorcareer pivots.Thesemomentsdemandmorethangeneric advice;theyrequirenuancedstrategiccounsel,objective perspective,andeffectivetoolsfornavigatinghighstakesenvironments.Identifyingandaccessing coachingequippedtoaddressthesespecificsenior-level needsremainsakeyconsiderationforindividualsand theorganizationstheylead.
KelseyWaldrop,FounderofPotentialOnPointand anICF(InternationalCoachingFederation)certified ExecutiveCoach,positionsherpracticetomeetthis specificdemand.Herapproachdrawsdirectlyfromover twodecadesspentasastrategicadvisorandthought partnertoleaderswithinmajorglobalcorporations.In thatcapacity,shedesignedandimplementedlarge-scale changeandtransformationinitiativesfocusedontalent optimization,leadershipdevelopment,andinnovation–strategiesintendedtocreategrowthandcompetitive advantageforFortune500-levelorganizations.
PotentialOnPointrepresentsadeliberatepivot, applyingthesesophisticatedcorporatetransformation strategiesandframeworks–oftenrepresenting significantorganizationalinvestments–tothecontext ofindividualexecutivecoaching.Overacoaching careerspanningmorethan15years,Ms.Waldrophas adaptedthesemethodologiestoempowerseniorleaders navigatingpivotalcareerandlifetransitions.
TheFoundation:TranslatingCorporateStrategyto IndividualSuccess
Ms.Waldrop’sextensivebackgroundinvolvedworking directlywithleadershipteamsoncomplex organizationalchallenges.Thisexperienceprovided deepinsightintothedynamicsofchange,theleversof influence,theimportanceofstrategicalignment,andthe requirementsforeffectiveleadershipatthehighest levels.Shegainedpracticalexperienceindesigning actionableplansthatyieldedmeasurableresultsinterms ofgrowthandinnovationwithinlargesystems.
ThetransitiontofoundingPotentialOnPointinvolved repurposingthisknowledgebase.Thefirm’sgenesis wasinfluencedbyMs.Waldrop’sownexperiences navigatingcareershifts,includingsinglemotherhood followingdivorceandaroleelimination.Theseevents crystallizedherrecognitionofagapinthecoaching market:alackofspecializedsupportforexecutives facingsimilarhigh-stakesinflectionpoints,
Applying Corporate Transformation Strategy to Executive Coaching
distinctfromstandardleadershipdevelopmentorskillbuildingprograms.Shesawanopportunitytoofferaservice groundedintherigorous,results-orienteddisciplinesof corporatechangemanagement.
TheServiceProposition:PotentialOnPointDefined
PotentialOnPointaimstoprovidemorethanconventional coaching.Itsmissionistoequipambitiousleaderswith concretestrategiesderivedfromproventransformation playbookstoacceleratetheircareersandachievesignificant goalsduringperiodsoftransition.Thefirm’snamereflects thisdualfocus.“Potential,”asMs.Waldropnotes,isa powerfulbutoftenunrealizedforce.“OnPoint”signifiesthe applicationofdiscipline,focus,clarity,andprecisionrequired totranslatethatpotentialintotangible,meaningful achievements.Thenameitselfsuggestsacommitmentto exactnessandstrategicalignmentinthecoachingprocess.
Methodology:FusingBusinessFrameworkswith CoachingPractice
ThecoremethodologyofPotentialOnPointinvolves integratingMs.Waldrop’sdeepunderstandingofcorporate transformationframeworkswithcertifiedexecutivecoaching techniques.Thisfusionaimstoprovideclientswith:
· StrategicSparring:Aconfidential,high-trustenvironment whereseniorleaderscanpressure-testideas,refinestrategic thinking,andsharpendecision-makingcapabilitiesrelevant tocomplexsituations.
· TransitionNavigation:Specificguidanceonmanagingthe unspokenexpectations,evolvingpowerdynamics,and strategicrecalibrationsinherentinneworexpandedleadership roles.Thegoalisnotjustmeetingexpectationsbutredefining them.
· ImpactMaximization:Equippingleaderstofunctionas “forcemultipliers”withintheirorganizations,moving beyondfunctionalcompetencetodrivesignificantstrategic impact.
Thisapproachdeliberatelytargetschallengesspecifictothe seniorexecutivelevel,whichMs.Waldropcontendsareless aboutfundamentalskillgapsandmoreaboutnavigating momentsthatdefineleadershiplegaciesandbroad organizationalimpact.
TargetClienteleandStatedValueProposition
PotentialOnPointreportscoachingover500executives globally Thefirmexplicitlyidentifiesthekeyfactorsdriving clientselection,providinginsightintoitsperceivedvalue:
1.CertaintyofROI:Clientsseekassurancethattheir investmentincoachingwillyieldtangiblereturnsintheir careertrajectoryorleadershipeffectiveness.
2.PeerTrustandRecommendation:Potentialclientsvalue thatotherseniorleadershavetrustedandrecommendedMs. Waldrop’sservices.
3.UnderstandingofUniqueChallenges:Clientsrequirea coachwhocomprehendsthespecificpressuresand complexitiesofseniorexecutiveroles.
4.InnovativeApproach:Clientslookforamethodology distinctfrompreviouscoachingexperiences,potentially offeringnewperspectivesortools.
5.AspirationforSignificantResults:Clientsengage PotentialOnPointwithacleardesiretoachievesubstantially more(“MORE”)intheircareersandlives.
Thisclientprofileunderscoresademandforhigh-impact coachinggroundedindemonstrableexpertiseanddelivering measurableoutcomes.
CorePrinciplesforEffectiveLeadership(Waldrop’s Framework)
Ms.Waldropemphasizesseveralkeyleadershipqualitiesshe believesareessentialfornavigatingtoday'scomplexbusiness environment.Theseprinciplesinformhercoachingframework:
· Self-Awareness:Positionedasthefoundationforeffective leadership.Understandingone’sstrengthsandleadership identityenablesintentional,high-impactdecisions,fosters executivepresenceandemotionalintelligence,andbuildsthe trustnecessarytoinspirefollowershipandmanagehighstakesdynamics.
· StrategicAgility:Definednotjustasreactingto change,butproactivelyleadingthroughit.This involvesmaintainingfocusamidstdisruption, continuouslyevolvingstrategies,integrating humancapabilitieswithemergingtechnologies likeAI,andcultivatingorganizationalresilience andinnovation.Theaimistoturncomplexity intoacompetitiveadvantage.
· RelationshipFocus:Assertingthatsustainable successreliesheavilyontrust.Leaderswho prioritizebuildingstrongrelationshipscreatethe conditionsnecessaryforeffectiveexecution, innovation,andlong-termimpact.Strategic networkingandcultivatingauthentic connections before theyareneededare presentedascriticalfornavigatingsuccessful careertransitionslikepromotions,newroles,or boardappointments.
Embeddingtheseprincipleswithinthecoaching engagementaimstoequipleadersnotjustfor immediatechallengesbutforsustained effectiveness.
SupportingPlatformsandStrategicTool Integration
Ms.Waldroputilizesadditionalplatformsand toolstosupporthermissionandenhanceher coachingpractice:
· Podcast(“LaidOff.LifeOn!”):Thisservesas abroadercommunicationchannel,making executive-levelcareerandleadershipinsights accessiblebeyondherdirectclientele.It functionstochallengeconventionalthinking, shareactionablestrategies,andbuildbrand visibility.ItalsoallowsMs.Waldroptoshare aspectsofherownprofessionaljourney, potentiallybuildingconnectionswithawider audience.
· ArtificialIntelligence(AI)Integration:Ms. WaldropactivelyincorporatesAItoolsintoher coachingpractice.ShestatesAIallowsherto deliverdeeperinsightsandcreatemore personalizedcoachingexperiencesbyequipping leaderswithtailoredstrategiesalignedwiththeir specificgoalsandchallenges.Importantly,she alsocoachesleadersonadoptingaproductive relationshipwithAI,viewingitasapartnerfor amplifyingstrengthsratherthanathreat,while maintainingafocusonethicalconsiderations andemotionalintelligenceinleadership.
OperationalPhilosophy: IntentionalImpact
Ms.Waldropdescribesher approachtomanaginghervarious roles(coach,speaker,podcast host)asoneofstrategic alignmentratherthanmere multitasking.Guidedbya“No Regrets”philosophy, shemakesintentionalchoices aboutcommitments,focusingon activitiesthatalignwithher valuesandcontribute meaningfullytoheroverarching missionofcreatingimpact.This suggestsadisciplinedapproachto timeandresourceallocation focusedonpurposefulwork.
FuturePerspectiveon LeadershipCoaching
Lookingahead,Ms.Waldrop envisionscoachingbecoming increasinglyintegraltothe practiceofleadershipitself, suggestingthateffectivefuture leaderswillnotonlyreceive coachingbutwillactivelyemploy coachingskillsindeveloping theirownteams.Herperspective emphasizestheenduring importanceofauthenticity, emotionalintelligence,anda human-firstapproach,particularly amidstrapidtechnological change.Buildingrobustnetworks basedontrustandfostering sharedsuccessarehighlightedas keyelementsofimpactful,futurefocusedleadership.Herstated legacygoalreinforcesthis: empoweringindividualsto recognizeandactualizetheir potential,transformingperceived impossibilitiesintoadvantages, anddefiningsuccessontheirown termswithconfidence.
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