Q: What do you do?

I work at Rambler Sparkling Water, based in Austin, Texas - the tastiest sparkling water to boot! As the Brand Manager, I work closely with our agency partners/vendors/internal teams on different projects from digital marketing advertising to event activations and everything in between.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

My mom. She’s a Vietnamese refugee who came to America with nothing. She learned a new language in a foreign land and navigated the hurdles of being a business owner with my dad while taking care of her family. Cooking all family meals, bookkeeping for the business and making sure we were all set up for success. She’s a powerhouse inside of a 4 feet 10 inch petite frame.

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

I feel most elevated when I get to see a project through from start to finish.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

Journaling helps me put all of my thoughts onto pen and paper … and yes, I still use pen and paper. I also love to get outside and enjoy nature with a hike or a simple walk around the park. It makes me feel grounded - literally and figuratively - there’s something about fresh air and movement.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

Comfort is everything, especially when you’re working/attending an event. I’m all about a multi-functional shoe, and I just got these Taos sneakers. The heel folds down for when you’re on the go, the color-way fits my style and they’re comfy.

Q: What do you do?

I work for I Live Here I Give Here. From helping people find their philanthropic passion to training them for nonprofit board service, I get to inspire Central Texans to give back in a variety of ways. rojects.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

Lady Bird Johnson. She was a strong Texas female, author, activist and advisor. She built a legacy around her passion for protecting the environment which is demonstrated through her highway beautification programs and The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a center created to inspire the conservation of native plants through its internationally recognized sustainable gardens, education and outreach programs, and research projects.

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

When I catch my son impromptuly offering to help someone in need or demonstrating charters of kindness, compassion, and thoughtfulness. It's so rewarding (and assuring) to see that he is becoming a positive contributing member of our community.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

Prioritization. Years of professional experience have taught me that I have to take care of myself in order to do the best I can at my job. Taking time to care for my physical and mental wellbeing runs the gamut from taking daily multivitamins, eating healthy foods, walking my dog, and spending time with family and friends.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

My Frye boots. As a born and raised Texan, I LOVE cowboy boots. This particular pair was purchased decades ago and is light brown with bright orange on the inside. I still wear them today.

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Q: What do you do?

I have the honor of helping to bring awareness and understanding to the Four Hands brand. As VP of Marketing, my role is to ask the right questions and listen well. I am fortunate to be surrounded by an immensely talented group of designers, creative directors, product developers, customer relations, merchandisers, and logistics professionals - each providing a unique perspective that contributes to our brand’s story. Plus, we have the most incredible roster of customers this industry has to offer. My role is really the easiest of the crew. I try to capture all their goodness, bottle it up and reflect it back into the world.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

There are so many women whose lens on life I would love to experience. I would have loved to spend a day as Ruth Bader Ginsburg to learn the art of graceful tenacity and get a glimpse into that brilliant mind. I would love to experience my grandmother’s spirit, the way she so quietly and gently commanded a room and led her family. I’d love to know the wit, poetry and unapologetic nature of Virginia Wolf. And, I’d really love to spend a day as my daughter to experience her empathy, warmth and the plight that comes with being a teenage girl today so that I may be stronger for her.

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

I’ve felt my most elevated when I’ve seen my children elevated. It’s astonishing to watch a child be at their most vulnerable, under extreme pressure and rise. I’ve watched them face their peers, barriers in front of them and the judgement of adults and choose to move forward despite. I’m elevated in those moments because I know I’ve put some pretty fantastic humans into our world.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

Accepting my role at Four Hands was an intentional move towards balance and wellbeing. There is a value here for one’s life outside of work and a true respect of one’s time. I have felt a significant improvement in stress, sleep and quality time with my family since joining the Four Hands team. My dogs are also very grateful for the new role as they receive far more walks – a truly therapeutic experience for us all.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

My Vince platform clogs. They are a perfect combination of elegant design, a little funky edge and a gorgeous, soft camel leather.

Q: What do you do?

I am the Chief Investment Officer for Silver Ventures, which is a Growth Equity firm located in San Antonio, Texas. I work with a team of highly talented people to build transformative food and hospitality companies.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was a staunch advocate for justice and equality. She serves as a reminder of the impact that an individual can have on society and an inspiration for the power of a woman’s use of her voice and talents to fight for causes in which she believes.

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

I have been fortunate to have achieved many professional milestones, but I have felt most elevated in witnessing and cheering on my two children, both in their early twenties, as they create their own opportunities for happy and productive lives.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

I'm appreciative for the chance to seamlessly blend work and life. Being able to live within walking distance of our office has enabled me to fully immerse myself in the vibrant community of the Historic Pearl neighborhood and enjoy the results of our collective efforts.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

Marc Fisher boots. The vibrant colors bring me joy, and the added bonus is that they are comfortable too!

Q: What do you do?

I help people create memories and celebrate everyday moments with Ice, Custard and Happiness!

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

Pink! A fellow Philly girl, she’s a confident boss lady who is always herself (the flying around stadiums would be cool, too!).

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

On stage speaking to a 700+ person audience. It’s terrifying and exhilarating!

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

Setting boundaries and good prioritization helps me be at my best for myself and others.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

Keds slip-on sneakers! I own more pairs than I should admit.

Q: What do you do?

I lead the commercial team at Pacific Hospitality Group, a hotel ownership and management company that runs independent and branded hotels. My team oversees all sales, marketing, branding, revenue management and distribution.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

That’s a tough question! I want to say Ruth Bader Ginsberg because she is fellow New Yorker who made a real impact in our world, but for more current times I would pick Taylor Swift. And, as a mom of two girls who admire her, that would blow their minds!

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

When my team is happy.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

Being around my people, my family and nature.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

Tough question! Probably my Air Force ones. I can wear them with anything, and they keep me moving!

Q: What do you do?

I work at Silver Ventures as the Vice President of Human Capital leading the People and Culture Team.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

I would choose Rigoberta Menchu. She is a Guatemalan human rights activists and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992. She has dedicated her life to promoting Indigenous rights internationally. She is a demonstration of no matter where you come from, you can transform lives and achieve greatness regardless of the circumstances.

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

I feel most elevated when I coach and lead team members to achieve things they didn’t know were possible.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

It is about being present in the moment. Whether it is at work or home, with a colleague or with my children; making myself available and taking it all in. I practice meditation and mindfulness.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

My metallic pink concert boots – when I put them on I know I’m going to have a good time.

Q: What do you do?

I'm fortunate to work at milk + honey, building this amazing brand and company.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She championed gender equality, women's rights, and individual liberties her entire life. She was discriminated against for the majority of her career and was resilient, strong and respectable every step of the way. I can only imagine what she went through and have the utmost respect for her.

Q: When have you felt the most elevated?

A: I think genuine appreciation, respect and communication from co-workers ultimately means the most. I have been lucky enough to work with a lot of amazing women who lift each other up vs. see one another as competition and that is truly the most rewarding environment.

Q: How do you balance your work demands and your wellbeing?

A: I think this is something that I have to be intentional about every day. Ultimately, my family is the most important thing to me and prioritizing that space in my life is what really matters. As long as I can do that, I know that business ebbs and flows - there are busy periods and there are slower times to catch your breath. I know now to listen to my intuition and if I'm starting to feel less creative or passionate, I need to carve out more time for myself.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My Birks. I've had them for years and wear them year-round (yes, I'm that girl who wears socks and Birks in the winter).

Q: What do you do?

A: Oversee a small collection of upscale hotels and resorts with a main focus on brand development and content strategy across all channels.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Julia Child. Those who know me would agree that kitchen is my second home. Julia was a self-starter with determination, creative vision and no fear in an industry mainly dominated by men at the executive level.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: This topic can be answered from so many angles. I came to this country with $100 in my pocket and managed to build a beautiful life. All you need is to find an opportunity, grab it and keep your eye on the ball. This topic is still work in progress and varies per industry and what part of the world we live in. We still have some ways to go.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: Creativity whether it’s work or a hobby, travel and my family … that’s all I need to find my zen and self-accomplishment.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: I tend to be a homebody so if I am not barefoot, you will find me walking in fuzzy warm booties rain or shine. With age comes comfort, I would say.

Q: What do you do?

A: I lead a team of talented and thoughtful individuals to sell and market Texas’ best-tasting sparkling water to the nation.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Tina Fey has been a leading advocate for equal pay for women in the entertainment business for years now. Most recently in her speech at the Variety's Power of Women luncheon, she said, “I made a vow to myself to not accept that privilege of being the only woman in the room, and to use any power I had to create opportunity for others.” She is righteous, brilliant, and a darn funny human being.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: The more we talk about it AND lead by example, the more progress we will see.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: A family hike with our Bernedoodle, Sergio, always does the trick. I also love a good acupuncture sesh.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: I’m a slip-on vans kind of girl. The brighter, the better. Lately, I’ve been getting reacquainted with an old pair of purple tie-dyed slip-on vans.

Q: What do you do?

A: I get the pleasure of leading an amazing brand that serves smiles every day.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Dolly Parton. She is always genuinely authentic, happy and has a kind word for everyone. And Wow – she sure can rock those heels.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: I am thrilled to see the shift in education to Embrace Equity, as outlined in the International Women’s Day website. Equal opportunity isn’t enough, we’ve been trying that for decades. Each individual has different needs and one-size doesn’t fit all. I am glad that the education has shifted to equity vs. equality.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: I elevate my self-worth by remembering that we are our own worst critic, and quiet that voice in my head, sometimes she over thinks things.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My favorite pair of shoes are my walking shoes. They can keep going for a lot of miles, they are solid and practical. I like to think they are a lot like me.

Q: What do you do?

A: I serve as the lead of the Gold Futures Challenge, an annual grants program that awards ten prizes ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 to AAPI-serving organizations that ensure the community is Seen, Heard, Empowered, and United. I also foster and support the building of national partnerships at AAF.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: I would love to walk in the shoes of Gabriella Silang, a Filipino revolutionary known for her role as the female leader of the Ilocano independence movement from Spain.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: Achieving gender equality can only be done as a collective. It can't primarily be women and gender expansive folks working towards this.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: Singing karaoke of course!

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My favorite shoes are my Converse! Classic low tops, black and white.

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Q: What do you do?

A: I am a co-founder of Porter Teleo. We design and create original hand painted wallcoverings and textiles. As an entrepreneur, I have the opportunity to wear many hats from designing new patterns to analyzing data for strategic planning. It is always engaging and rewarding work.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Anna Wintour – even to walk in her shoes just for a morning so I could choose an outfit from her closet would be incredible…but to experience the pace, knowledge, and instinct that goes into creating the fashion world’s guidebook each month would be fascinating.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: Head down, plow forward.   Don’t waste energy on what you can’t control, but instead make sure you are creating an environment  that represents the balance you know to be right.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: Unabashed self-care

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: Hmm…depends on the season.  As we wrap up winter in the Midwest, I have been wearing a pair of Gianvito Rossi shearling trimmed ankle boots on the regular, but I am looking forward to making the switch to sandals in the next months.

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Q: What do you do?

A: Katie Taleb, Vice President, Customer Experience Marketing for Four Hands, which is the leading global designer and wholesaler of trendsetting lifestyle home furnishings. I lead a team responsible for the customer journey across our marketing landscape, driving marketing programs that elevate our products and support our acquisition, onboarding, retention and re-engagement efforts while providing our customers with a best-in-class experience.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: I would choose Michelle Obama. I saw her speak once and she was an inspiration – I might have teared up a little! She is such a great role model, especially to the younger generation who I really think need strong female leaders to look up to and feel inspired by. Her theme surrounding that the self is always growing and changing is one that really resonates with me – I believe it is important to learn from everything you do – whether it was considered a success or failure – as long as you are learning, you are evolving and growing.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: I believe in the power of collaboration and that we accomplish more when we work together so I like to encourage everyone to speak up and share ideas – regardless of who you are. I find when people feel like they are being heard, there is so much better collaboration that happens and then everyone feels invested in the outcome. On the home front, I have an amazing husband who was raised by a very strong woman who taught him to cook, sew and clean (he is better at sewing than I am!) so there is a very good balance across our household and there are no gender specific chores.
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Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: Whenever I need a pick me up, I take it to the basics and play with my dog. There is nothing like the love of a dog to make you happy.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: I have a pair of red Rothy’s that I love. They are comfortable, washable and I love the pop of color because everything else I own is black or gray!

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Q: What do you do?

A: I grow brands and create brand strategy. I also teach campaigns and how growing brand image makes or breaks the brand.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Michelle Obama. Loved her memoir, Becoming. She's an A++ model for all women. She has grace & poise and is a woman all can admire.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: If you're a women & too hard, you're aggressive. If you're too soft, you won't have the gravitas to hold a room. You have to have conviction and full understanding of what you're talking about; don't be afraid to be yourself.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: Vitamin D. Running. A lot of running; I just finished a half marathon. A lot of podcasts & books. I love inspirational writers.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My cowboy boots: Old West.

Q: What do you do?

A: I created a clothing line, handmade, comfortable, vibrant, resort inspired dresses and tops from first sketch to the last stitch, and established a boutique in 2007 in New York City.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: I believe that there are so many admirable women. Most of them are not famous or even recognized. Some of them are at home taking care of multiple children, juggling jobs, worrying about a healthy meal for all. Furthermore, there are so many women who have incredible talent, ideas, contributions that can never surface because they may have been born on the wrong side of the world.

Nonetheless, one fabulous lady comes to mind: Elsa Schiaparelli. She was regarded as Coco Chanel’s rival, although most people only remember Coco. (Mostly thanks to Karl Lagerfeld who kept her company and licensed products alive through the 80s and 90s). Contrary to Coco’s way of designing comfortable and chic looks for all, Elsa designed unusual looks such as a skirt with an enormous random shrimp on it. Or a blazer with sequins on one sleeve only depicting the long hair of a woman. She liked to “shock” her audience. She was best friends with Salvador Dali, who also created the unusual. She seems like a person who spoke her mind, stood up for her beliefs and wasn’t afraid to express shocking and surprising looks.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: My own surroundings are quite stable with gender equality. Nonetheless I realize that the world has a long way to go. I wish to empower both genders to speak their mind, to learn what exactly is “equality.” To educate oneself before committing and to make smart choices. On the flip side, to know that equality must come with equal effort, integrity, hard work, and clear communication.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: Exercise!

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: Perhaps it’s always been flip flops, but at my old age it’s become Cloudsteppers.

Q: What do you do?

A: I help people get from sick to well quicklier by designing and marketing diagnostic tools that can be used by anyone.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Maria Montessori who was a truly versatile, intelligent, and progressive woman. Not only was she the first woman to attend medical school in Italy but she was a visionary when it comes to children’s education. Her educational method that builds on the way children learn naturally is still progressive more than 100 years later.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: We have come a long way towards achieving gender equality. If women support each other, we point out areas of inequality, and we raise our children by leading by example, I am sure it’s achievable.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: My 3 children are my key source of joy and happiness. What could be better than unconditional love paired with brutal honestly and toilet humor?! Otherwise put me on a boat or into the sea and I will be happy.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: I am water person - bare foot or diving fins!

Q: What do you do?

A: I serve those in need through second-hand fashion #KeepAustinClothed

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: The woman I would pick is Michelle Obama. Her grace and ability to connect and see others is so powerful. She is so uplifting with her powerful speaking ability.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: My point of view of achieving gender equality in the workplace is allowing each woman her voice. Giving women a safe place and the opportunities to step in new roles/positions.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: I elevate my self-worth or mood by listening to worship music or a sermon. This can instantly boost my mood if I’m feeling down this turns it around. When I’m feeling good, this keeps my spirits up.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My favorite pair of shoes are my White Reebok shoes (Cardi B) edition. While I prefer my chanclas most of the time, I pull them out when I need to step out comfortably & stylish. I feel fresh & confident!

Q: What do you do?

A: I’m an independent filmmaker.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Gloria Steinem. I have a black & white photo of her I bought online, to inspire me.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: I agree with those who have pointed out there will be greater gender equality when more women are in leadership positions (and can hire and promote women).

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: I "journalspeak" (a word coined by therapist Nicole Sachs, who has a podcast called The Cure for Chronic Pain; the idea is that, when writing a journal entry, you pour out your rawest feelings without censoring yourself, then delete the document so no one sees it. She likens it to coughing up phlegm, the stuff that's making you feel bad. You always feel better after you get it out.)

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My favorite pair of shoes is my New Balance tennis shoes. I'm ready to do all my favorite activities when I'm wearing them--take a long walk, shoot scenes, work out, etc.

Q: What do you do?

A: I create places and experiences that transform San Antonio and make it the place to be.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Ann Richards. I was relatively young when she served as governor of TX, but I remember her confidence & quick wit. As I've grown in my role as a woman in business, I've come to realize what a strong example & leader she has been for all women. She helped to pave the way for all of us and did it without conforming to expectations. She had an amazing style & charm that endeared her to many.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: Achieving gender equality starts with women truly supporting each other & mentoring the next generation of women leaders. I find incredible strength in the groups of women that I do life with. We are vulnerable & honest about struggles, celebrate successes and hold each other accountable. We need more of this type of support & honesty to show each other that we are in this together and have incredible power.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: I keep a gratefulness journal, and I add to it every morning. I run and work out several times a week. I am a bit of a podcast junky, and I seek out positive content that I can listen to on a regular basis. I’m always looking for new ideas and thoughts that I can incorporate in my life.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: I have a great pair of zebra print heels. They are fun, and I always get a ton of compliments.

Q: What do you do?

A: The mission of New Schools for Baton Rouge is to ensure that every child in Baton Rouge has access to an excellent education.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: I would've loved to walk on Ada Lovelace's shoes for the day. She was a brilliant mathematician whose contributions allowed us to have the technology we have today. She was the one to envision a future where a modern computer can translate everything into a digital form. Ada Lovelace is the first computer programmer of our time - at a time when women had hardly a chance in education.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: It is extremely important for me to work for a company that prioritizes diversity and inclusion and hire vendors with diverse backgrounds. I believe we need to continue to pave the way for the future generation to have equal opportunities and we have a longer way to go. I want to see a world where women and men are treated and paid equally.

In my work, I believe that education is one of the keys to unlock every child's potential and all children deserve an excellent education no matter their zip code or background.

If there was a mantra to live by, it would be: Never settle for less and always ask for what you are worth for. A no today might be a yes tomorrow -- keep on moving!

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: In the mornings, I always like to go on a walk and write in my gratitude journal. As of late, I've been celebrating the small wins or shoutouts from the team by taking a screenshot, putting them in my virtual folder or journal and go back to them when I'm feeling doubtful. This helps me remember that we all have good days and bad days and to give yourself some grace.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My favorite pairs of shoes of all time would be Brooks Running Launch 8 because I love running half marathons across the US and exploring the world. On the other hand, when I go on dates, I love to wear Blush Suede Ankle Strap Heels - so comfortable and sexy at the same time.

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Q: What do you do?

A: I help people communicate with confidence and improve lives by improving communication.

Q: If you could "walk in her shoes for a day," who would you pick?

A: Shirley Chisholm, the 1st Black woman in Congress and the 1st woman and Black person to seek nomination for president from a major party. Her journey and impact are incredibly inspiring. She once said, "I want to be remembered as a woman…who dared to be a catalyst of change." I find this outlook motivating, and I am deeply intrigued to know what it was like for her to deliver on this challenge as a Black woman in the 60s & beyond.

Q: What's your point of view on achieving gender equality in your work and/or life?

A: It is long overdue, and I look forward to the day that it is a reality. In the meantime, it is on us all to bring equality to fruition. Every action and inaction have an impact on making progress or impeding it. I am inspired by change-makers such as Brittany Packnett Cunningham and Brene Brown. I take lessons from these leaders and put them into practice daily as I work to do my part.

Q: How do you elevate your self-worth or your mood?

A: A few years back, my friends and I started a GroupMe chain dedicated to self-care. We discuss everything from dry brushing to therapy as means of unlocking our best selves. We help each other overcome challenges and provide encouragement. Having a village has been highly impactful for me and has kept me lifted while navigating my career, motherhood, and a breast cancer journey that I am happy to be on the other side of.

Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes?

A: My Pyer Moss Reeboks are my favorite shoes at the moment. They elevate whatever I am wearing and are a form of wearable art. Additionally, they are extremely comfortable, which is a top priority these days.