In this episode of Journeys to Leadership, we explore the journey of Jennifer Dorian, President and CEO of WABE, Atlanta’s NPR and PBS affiliate. From her early beginnings at Pizza Hut and Coca-Cola to her dynamic leadership at Turner Broadcasting, where she launched the award-winning streaming platform, Filmstruck, Jennifer reflects on her path to success. She emphasizes the importance of embracing change, advocating for innovation, and cultivating resilience. Through her leadership at WABE, she amplifies Atlanta's diverse cultural and media landscape, striving to inform, inspire, and empower the community.

In this deeply moving episode of Journeys to Leadership, acclaimed poet Tina Chang opens up about the heartbreak of losing her father at a young age and how that profound loss became the foundation of her first poetry collection. With raw honesty, Tina recounts her struggles with language, being separated from her mother, and navigating life as an outsider—experiences that shaped her voice as a writer and a leader. Now the first female Poet Laureate of Brooklyn and Director of Creative Writing at Binghamton University, Tina shares her ongoing battle with self-doubt, the pressures of leadership, and how embracing vulnerability has been her greatest strength. Her journey is a testament to the power of art, resilience, and finding beauty in life’s darkest moments. This episode offers hope and inspiration for anyone seeking to turn pain into purpose.

In this captivating episode of Journeys to Leadership, Mary Pat Matheson, CEO of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, shares her incredible journey from her adventurous childhood to leading one of the nation's top botanical gardens. Discover how serendipity, resilience, and calculated risks led her to transform the Atlanta Botanical Garden into a world-class destination, spearheading a groundbreaking expansion with sustainability at its core. Mary Pat reveals the power of mentorship, the importance of connecting people to nature, and the essential role leadership plays in tackling global challenges like biodiversity and climate change. Tune in for an inspiring story of bold innovation and visionary leadership.

On this episode of Journeys to Leadership, join President Zak as she delves into the remarkable leadership journey of Jennifer Grant Warner, the President and CEO of the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Jennifer shares her unique path from a small-town upbringing to leading one of Atlanta's premier science institutions. Learn how she has transformed the museum’s programming, guided it through the pandemic, and spearheaded innovative STEM initiatives, all while staying rooted in empathy, curiosity, and community impact.

If you’re passionate about leadership, nonprofit management, or the intersection of science and education, this episode is for you. Jennifer’s insights on taking informed risks, evolving organizational strategies, and fostering a culture of innovation provide invaluable lessons for leaders at all levels.

In this episode of Journeys to Leadership, Agnes Scott College president Leocadia Zak interviews Penny Rogers Collins, a trailblazing IT executive and advocate for women in STEAM. Penny reflects on her unlikely path from a single mother struggling to make ends meet to becoming a highly respected leader in technology. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of learning. She shares how she found her footing in tech, one library visit at a time, driven by a commitment to self-improvement and an unyielding belief in her potential.

Throughout the episode, Penny emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community. She discusses her passion for supporting women and girls in STEAM and how she has dedicated her career to lifting others, including creating a program for single mothers to pursue careers in cybersecurity. Her candid reflections offer invaluable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and the power of continuous learning. Tune in for a compelling conversation that shows how perseverance through adversity can create extraordinary success.

In this compelling episode of Journeys to Leadership, President Leocadia Zak sits down with Veronica Maldonado-Torres, President and CEO of the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. From aspiring recording artist to influential business leader, Veronica shares her transformative journey of self-discovery and resilience. Learn how she navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship, championed small businesses, and advocated for minority communities in the corporate world.

Veronica’s story is one of perseverance, She offers powerful insights on embracing your “jolt moments” — those pivotal times that redefine your path. Whether it’s overcoming personal setbacks or challenging societal inequities, Veronica’s message is clear: true success comes from leading with purpose and authenticity. Tune in to explore how Veronica’s strategic vision and commitment to empowering others have made her a driving force in Atlanta’s business community.

In this inspiring episode of Journeys to Leadership, Agnes Scott College President Leocadia Zak sits down with Carol Tomé, the current CEO of UPS. Carol shares her remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Jackson, Wyoming, to becoming one of the most respected leaders in global logistics. Tune in to hear Carol's thoughts on risk-taking, leading with authenticity, and the importance of developing future leaders. From her early career in finance to her transformative years at Home Depot and UPS, Carol's story is one of resilience, purpose, and unwavering commitment to creating value, having fun, and kicking ass.

In this powerful episode of Journeys to Leadership, President Zak sits down with Jen Hidinger-Kendrick, co-founder and Chief Gratitude Officer of Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit organization providing emergency assistance to food service workers. Jen shares her inspiring story of perseverance, community building, and how she turned personal tragedy into a beacon of hope. Jen’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and leadership with purpose.