Tate Sherman of Kentucky Eagle, Inc.
2440 Innovation Dr. • Lexington, KY • 859.252.3434 • KyEagle.net
The spirit of leadership is in Tate Sherman’s blood. Her grandfather, O.A. Bakhaus, moved to Kentucky during the depression to start a new life for his family. “Because of one man from Oklahoma with a vision and a drive, for 70 years Kentucky Eagle has been able to give back to our community, support our community and provide jobs to 160 Kentucky families,” Tate says.
Upon graduating with a business degree from Ole Miss in 2003 (you’ll often hear her shout, “Hotty Toddy!”), she took a job with Anheuser-Busch, which gave her a unique perspective on the industry. She moved back to Lexington and became the third generation of Bakhaus-family leadership at Kentucky Eagle; she is currently the company’s Vice President.
“To build my foundation of knowledge of our business, a personal development plan was created to make sure I developed the skills necessary to run a business,” she says. She had mentors in each of the departments she worked with, including her mother, Owner and President Ann Bakhaus. From working on delivery trucks to managing sales, she learned how to run the business from the ground up–and became the first on the team to earn her fork lift operator’s license in heels. “All of my mentors were hard on me and I appreciated that because I knew they had my best interest at heart and I knew they wanted to see me be successful.”
Tate has been excited to see the industry change. “Women in key roles within the beer industry have increased dramatically over the last fifteen years, which is a major change from when my mom started in the business, but there still is a lot of improvement to be made in this area for women. I honestly have not had a problem working in that environment,” she says. “The men I work beside at our company treat me as an equal member of the team; they look at me as someone who adds different talents and perspectives to the team, which are welcomed.”
Tate wants the next generation to think of Lexington as a promising place to start their careers. “A lot of young adults leave Lexington and move to what they think are bigger and better cities, but Lexington is amazing!” She adds, “It’s a great, safe city that offers anyone the ability to have any career that they choose. Basically, the key to growing your career is staying in Lexington and doing your thing!”
Erin Hershey Serrate, Selina Shepherd and Erin Fulkerson Hall of Community Trust Wealth & Trust Management
100 E. Vine St. Ste. 501 • Lexington • 859.389.5300•ctbi.com/wtm
Erin Serrate has worked in the investment advisory industry for 14 years and has spent the last nine years focused on wealth and trust management. “Being able to play a significant role in helping my clients find solutions, achieve their goals and create a legacy for their families is my motivation,” she says. When it comes to work/life balance, Erin notes, “It’s a challenge that requires continually prioritizing where I spend my time and focusing on what is most important and where the greatest need is at any moment.”
Erin’s greatest inspiration is her mother. Despite having MS for nearly 40 years, and being wheelchair bound, Erin’s mom has never succumbed to her circumstances and still believes she can accomplish whatever she puts her mind to. “I have found it’s best to surround yoursealf with people you admire and have the qualities you aspire to possess,” Erin says. “Be intentional about spending time with them and learning from them.”
Assistant Vice President and Relationship Officer, Selina Shepherd, has 26 years of experience in the banking industry, with the last eight years in wealth management, trust and estate services.
The private wealth area of banking has been the most unique and rewarding experience in Selina’s career path because she says she is able to build relationships with clients that help develop and administer their family legacy.
Family is very important to Selina; she credits her daughters for inspiring her every day to work hard. “I want to encourage them to pursue their dreams as they go through life. I am still working on having a good balance, but I think finding harmony with family, work, and social events is a struggle for a lot of women, especially working mothers.”
Selina has found Lexington to offer many opportunities for women to start or expand their careers. She encourages all women, including her daughters, to stay motivated, work hard, continue to learn and always be willing to challenge yourself. “As I have learned, it is very rewarding to be in a career that you enjoy,” she says.
Erin Fulkerson Hall, Vice President and Relationship Officer at Community Trust Wealth & Trust Management, has extensive experience in the estate planning, estate administration and corporate transaction fields.
As Erin explains, coffee and a phenomenal village of support are what allow her to balance family, work and social obligations. “As the speech goes, having a successful career and a family takes a village,” Erin says. “My children, Eleanor, 5, and Briggs, 3, are my biggest motivators and my secret weapon is my village: my husband, parents, sister, in-laws and babysitter, who allow me to have the best of both worlds.”
Amy Sherrow & Tess Bechel of Peoples Exchange Bank
901 Richmond Rd. • Lexington • 859.269.0235 • pebank.com
Tess Bechel has performed several different roles during her 13 years in the financial industry. While Tess didn’t set out in banking thinking that it would be the career she fell in love with, it quickly became a lifelong career path that she is passionate about.
“Each of the positions came with different challenges, but what I enjoyed most about each one was getting to work with customers face to face every day,” she says. “I have met so many great people along the way and I really embrace the challenges and the opportunities to continue to learn and grow year after year.”
As Tess explains, she’s able to give 100 percent at work because she has a supportive employer as well as a great support system at home.
“Once the work day is complete, I am able to leave work at work and go home and enjoy my family,” she says. “That balance has not always come easily to me, but I have gotten much better at it over the years. It helps that my children are my inspiration to work hard every day. I enjoy working hard to provide for them, and hope to model a great work ethic for them in hopes that they will aspire to do great things.”
Amy Sherrow began her career as a part-time teller with a local bank while she attended the University of Kentucky. During this time, she was offered a management position at the bank and accepted. She spent the next several years progressing through the retail management ranks while also finishing her master degrees.
“I knew I wanted to pursue a more in-depth relationship management position, particularly on the credit side, so I accepted a position as a commercial lender at Peoples Exchange Bank,” she says. “In my current position, I am able to help commercial clients achieve their financial goals while working for a community bank that really cares about its customers.”
Amy comes from a family of strong-willed women, who she credits for molding her into the woman she is today. Amy’s mother’s strength and authenticity and her grandmother’s self-less work ethic, have showed Amy the importance of working hard and building relationships along the way.
“I believe that the relationships we maintain in life will always be the most important and rewarding thing that we will ever achieve,” she says. “Therefore, I focus on pouring into the people around me–at work, home and socially–as well as myself. At the end of the day, investing in these relationships, while taking time for me, equals success.”
Gwen Riley of GreenBox Heating & Air, Plumbing & Remodeling
1060 W. High St. • Lexington • 859.278.0281 • GreenBoxAir.com
Gwen Riley, President and Founder of GreenBox had served in the heating, air conditioning, and plumbing industry for 16 years before she felt called to start GreenBox in 2010. She wanted to create a company that served the industry differently. “I believe everyone deserves great service at a fair price. In particular, I wanted women to feel they have someone they can trust for home solution needs. I wanted to create a company that offers peace of mind for all home owners when it comes to home repairs,” she says. “At GreenBox, we take time to know our customers because to us, it’s all about relationships. We want our customers to know we care about them.”
Gwen says that GreenBox operates under a people-centric model and strives to create an environment where employees can thrive. In addition to weekly technical and customer service classes, GreenBox offers a variety of personal development classes. These classes include financial education, healthy eating and weight loss and leadership. They conduct a company meeting monthly devoted to personal development.
Gwen Riley also believes that business owners have a responsibility to give back to the community they serve. GreenBox’s 12 Months of Giving recognizes a different local non-profit each month. They provide commercial TV spots, social media posts, promote volunteer opportunities and provide financial support.
“I’m also passionate about preserving history. We are who we are because of those that came before us,” Gwen states. GreenBox acquired Coleman Smith Heating & Air which started as Cranfill Frey in the 1920s. GreenBox has expanded into a 38,000 sq ft historical Lexington building. This historically restored building is now a state-of-the-art facility with energy efficient upgrades, locally sourced natural materials, advanced automation technology, indoor air quality products and a water filtration system. “This building was redesigned by the GreenBox family FOR the GreenBox family,” she says. Walls include motivational quotes and mission, vision, and value statements. It includes a workout facility, coffee bar, and advanced product training zones for staff. This space was designed with a growth mindset and incorporates innovative products and gives opportunity for individuals to thrive, and to service their customers.
“When you understand that failure isn’t a permanent condition, but a learning opportunity, then you set yourself up for amazing potential. We’re excited for the future and a continued effort in serving our customers and giving back to our community,” says Gwen Riley, President & Founder.
Liza van Dissel & Amy Mellinger of Fortune Realty Company
900 Beasley St. Ste. 110 • Lexington • 859.293.1111 • FortuneRealty.com
Principal Broker and Co-Owner of Fortune Realty Amy Mellinger began managing the development and leasing for Fortune Realty’s sister company, Fortune Business Centre, as a Property Manager in 1999. Her passion is rooted in solving client needs.
As Finance Director for Paul Miller Ford and then property manager and principal broker for Fortune Realty, Amy has developed strategic real estate solutions for her clients, including overseeing development projects, portfolio management, sales and leasing.
Amy strives to be as intentional as possible with her free time, enjoying relaxing at Lake Cumberland with her family. She is very philanthropic in the Lexington community, serving on a number of committees. “I’ve met incredible people I may have never known, while investing time in philanthropies that are important to me,” she says. “You can learn from each other while serving others.”
The most inspirational “Leading Lady” in Amy’s life is her mother. “My mom has modeled an incredible work ethic, has a servant’s heart for others, and fueled my passion for design and construction, which routinely helps me in my career today.”
Amy attributes her success to the incredible team she has surrounded herself with at Fortune Realty. Liza van Dissel joined the Fortune team after moving back home from out West where she was the head wrangler at a destination ranch in Jackson Hole.
“Having a developer as a parent, I guess you can say my career started at quite a young age,” Liza says. “I started walking and crawling through buildings, and later on gained knowledge of funding and floor plans.”
As Liza continues to grow in her career, her best advice to other working women is to “find your passion and seek out a mentor. Kentucky is known for strong women,” Liza says. “There is a bounty of thoughtful, fierce, exemplary and inspiring women in Lexington. My mom, Holly Wiedemann, has been a wonderful role model for me. She and all of the empowering ladies in her book club have been major influences in my life!”
“One of the first ‘Leading Ladies’ I ever met said, ‘There is no such thing as being high maintenance, only well maintained,’ which I’ve translated into my daily life by sweating regularly, eating well and surrounding myself in good company! So far, it’s working,” Liza says.
The most rewarding part of the job for these ladies is working with clients. “We love learning about each client’s business model and helping them achieve their goals, whether it be for investment opportunities, sales, leasing or finding a new space,” says Amy and Liza.
Cathy Cornett-Wilson of Rector Hayden Realtors
1099 Duval St. Ste. 250 • Lexington • 859.983.0734• CathyCornett.rhr.com
As a Kentucky native and University of Kentucky graduate, Cathy Cornett-Wilson began her real estate career in 2002. She’s been selling real estate with Rector Hayden Realtors ever since.
“I have worked for the same company since the beginning, which is now more than 15 years. I love what I do, which I think is what inspires me to work hard every day,” she says.
Cathy takes great pride in helping her clients achieve their goals and says it is her most utmost concern and motivation. While Cathy is the first to admit that balancing her work, family and social obligations is an ongoing battle, she credits having a very supportive family, one that understands the demands within the real estate industry, as her secret weapon.
“I know it is an old cliché, but trying to getting everything done in a day is still my biggest challenge,” she says. “It seems the older you get the harder that is to do, but thanks to my determination, I have a tendency to be goal-oriented and love to see things through until the end.”
Cathy’s determination is a quality that she has found works great in real estate. She believes that by being persistent and working hard, one can do anything they set their mind to. This mindset is one that she takes great pride in. If there is ever a time that she finds herself doubting an outcome or questioning herself, Cathy says she finds inspiration in a ring her sister gave her for her birthday that is engraved with a quote by R.S. Grey that says “She believed she could, so she did.”
There have been many strong women in Cathy’s life, both professionally and personally, but she says her mom is her biggest inspiration.
“I have been so fortunate to be surrounded by many strong women in real estate—women that are ethical, honest and great role models, but I will always be inspired by my mother. Although she didn’t work outside of our home, my mom instilled hard work, honesty and compassion in us. These traits will stay with me forever, whether in my business or personal life.”
Diane Verhalen of Alliance Financial Planning
525 Darby Creek #29 • Lexington • 859.977.6006 • AllianceFP.net
Diane Verhalen, CFP™, owner of Alliance Financial Planning, has been in the financial industry since 2003, but has been an independent advisor with the same company since 2006. She started her own independent firm in 2014 after being affiliated with other independent advisors and agents in larger groups.
“My industry is predominantly male, so as a woman, I feel that some people discount me right from the start,” she says. “That drove me to be as educated as I could be within my industry, so holding the Certified Financial Planner designation sets me apart.”
Diane lets her clients needs dictate the plan of action. She leads with a written plan that gives every client a personalized assessment of their goals, and together, they work and monitor the progress. “I like to have a positive impact on people by helping them reach their financial goals and dreams,” she says.
As a working woman, Diane encourages other women through her volunteer work with Dress for Success and The Junior League of Lexington. She knows that consistency and hard work pay off, so she hopes to inspire others to never give up on their personal and professional dreams.
Brooke Whalen of Brooke Whalen Insurance
1795 Alysheba Way #1103 • Lexington • 859.885.0232 •BrookeWhalenInsurance.com
Brooke Whalen, a lifelong resident of Lexington and graduate of the University of Kentucky, is the owner of an independent insurance agency, Brooke Whalen Insurance – Erie Insurance.
Inspired by her family, faith and helping individuals in the community, Brooke opened her own business as a working mom of three.
“My wonderful husband, Kenny, and beautiful children, Emma, Hunter, and Reese, are my number one priority,” Brooke says. “Being a working mom can be stressful, but it helps to stay focused, set priorities and be organized.”
For Brooke, being in a male dominating industry has pushed her harder to differentiate herself from her competitors. She is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of her client’s needs, making sure they are fully protected, providing outstanding service and personally treats them as if they were family.
“There is nothing better than owning my own business,” she says. “It is hard work, but so rewarding. Without the support of my husband, family and clients, I would not be where I am today.”
Liz Fowler of Bluegrass Care Navigators
2312 Alexandria Dr. • Lexington, KY • 859.296.6810 • [email protected]
Liz Fowler’s first work experiences were in a large hospital system, yet because of her family, the hospice philosophy came naturally for her. As president and CEO of Bluegrass Care Navigators for the last 4 years, Liz has spent most of her 30-year career working in healthcare.
“I learned at an early age we cared for our own at home,” she says. “In the 1980’s, hospice was new to the U.S. healthcare system, so I was fortunate to be part of the movement early on. Through the years, as the need for community based healthcare has grown, I’ve had the opportunity to start up and provide leadership for a variety of health care services that help individuals spend more time at home when they are ill.”
Liz frequently reminds herself that there is always time to do what is most important. If she stays focused on her priorities, balance follows. Also, she says that balancing work and family is easier when you love what you do.
“When someone is seriously ill, it’s very intimate to be present with them. It is also very rewarding to help a person with their suffering, whether it’s physical, spiritual, social or emotional” she says. “For me, working in hospice has helped me to keep perspective on what is important in my daily life. I try not to ‘sweat the small stuff.’”
Liz continues to be inspired by the women and men who are hospice caregivers. For Liz, there is no better reward than helping someone navigate a difficult time or a new experience. She says that hospice caregivers embrace this experience and help patients and families live life to the fullest every day.
“Whether they are professionals, family members or friends—they are my heroes,” she says. “Taking care of a beloved is really, really, hard and intimate work. There is only one chance to do it right. Done well, it is meaningful and life-changing.”
Lauren West of Peplum
824 Euclid Ave. #103 • Lexington • 859.269.0009 • PeplumLexington.com
Lauren West began her career in public relations and marketing, including working as the marketing director for a restaurant group for many years. After a failed business partnership in 2016, she became motivated to open Peplum.
Lauren describes herself as a girl’s girl and wants every woman to love herself. She believe that amazing things happen when women support and encourage each other.
“Peplum isn’t about selling clothes, instead its purpose is to make every woman that walks through our doors feel beautiful and confident,” Lauren says. “When a woman feels good about herself, it changes their entire outlook on life. The power for good that lies within a positive, kind and confident woman is endless. At Peplum, we try to do our part to bring that out in every woman we meet.”
Lauren credits her success to her amazing support system. Lauren’s mom, Diane Henson, is her business partner, and as Lauren explained, Peplum would not have come so far without her family and friends.
“My mom does a lot of work behind the scenes and is such a great sounding board,” Lauren says.” My husband has supported and encouraged Peplum since inception—opening a boutique was actually his idea. He has really stepped up to help at home since I spend most of my time at the store. My two sisters and numerous girlfriends also give me feedback on business ideas, and even work at the store when I can’t be there, so it is a blessing to have them in my corner.”
Lauren is also motivated by other female business owners in the community. She has been very impressed with Lexington’s network of successful female entrepreneurs. Instead of looking at other females or businesses as competition, Lauren thinks of them as a resource. As she says, cutting another woman down, or being cutthroat towards another business, serves zero purpose. She believes there is power in positivity and optimism leads to success.
Renee Nimtz of Commonwealth Plastic Surgery
715 Shaker Dr. Ste.100 • Lexington 859.277.9435 • www.CommonwealthPlastics.com
Renee Nimtz brings a unique background to Commonwealth Plastic Surgery after teaching college writing for 16 years. “So much of what I do relies on good communication skills and educating patients about plastic surgery,” Renee says. Her knack for writing has led her to write Commonwealth Plastic Surgery’s blog, The Plastic Professor, which launches this month.
“It’s really exciting to write about a topic I am passionate about! I enjoy giving patients the inside scoop on procedures and treatments that they might not get from their consultation with a surgeon or researching online,” she reveals. “Patients find so much conflicting information online, we developed our Commonwealth Plastic Surgery blog to offer honest, clear advice to eliminate confusion.” Dr. Nimtz and Renee consult together on interesting issues, topics and treatment approaches within plastic surgery. Their collective experience as the surgeon and patient care coordinator feeds the blog topics and how best to educate their patients.
Prior to working with her husband, Renee ran her own business where she consulted for a large educational software company in the San Francisco Bay Area. As a consultant, she offered instructional webinars across the globe and produced online training videos. “It is interesting to see where my prior professional experience has provided background for the tasks I am doing in our plastic surgery business,” Renee says. “I learned a wealth of skills from my consulting work that has allowed us to improve the access patients have to Dr. Nimtz and the values of our practice,” which comes through in the way she has carefully branded their company. “We’re a family business. Dr. Nimtz and I care for our patients dearly. We want them to look good, and we want them to enjoy their experience with our team.”
Life is hectic running a business while raising 6 kids and managing a small farm. In addition to running Commonwealth Plastic Surgery, Renee volunteers several hours a week as President over her church’s Primary for children ages 18 months to 11 years who reside all over Kentucky—from Lexington to Corbin—including heading up their Cub Scout program where Dr. Nimtz is a local Cub Master. In the wee hours of the morning, you’ll also find Renee on a spin bike at SweatLex studio where she teaches cycle. “I’d love for you all to come in and meet Dr. Nimtz and our fabulous employees, check out our blog or sign up to ride with me on the bike!”
Keely Rock of PNC Bank
301 E. Main St. Ste. 300 • Lexington • 859.281.5246 • pnc.com
Keely Rock’s love of horses brought her from the west coast to the bluegrass to study at Midway College. Keely started her career in the equine veterinary industry before she became a client advisor for PNC Bank.
“I was able to travel to equine practices all over the country, and develop relationships with equine vets and their teams, but traveling 270 days out of the year was tough on our family,” Keely says. “Through determination and connections with some firms in Lexington, I started my next career in the financial industry with MetLife, then PNC Private Banking, and now PNC Wealth Management.”
Keely admits that most days she’s thankful to get out of the house on time with her son in tow. She prides herself on doing the best for her family, friends, clients and the community.
“My clients really inspire me,” she says. “I am very lucky because it does not feel like a job when I get to work with people I deeply care about,” Keely says. “My team at PNC drives me every day to be better and my family truly inspires me. My son and my husband are my best cheerleaders.”
Katie James of Teal Tractor CSA
3844 Military Pike • Lexington • 440.591.1440 • TealTractor.com
Katie James, graphic and web designer and local farmer, is inspired to work hard every day because of the positive impact her work has on the community. She works full-time as a designer and farmer, but has found a balance between the two.
When Katie moved to Lexington, she volunteered with the Fayette County Farm Bureau (FCFB). For more than 35 years, FCFB has had a farm equipment consignment auction in the spring that raises money for scholarships available to Fayette County high school seniors.
“Through participating in this event, and many others, I’ve found support and empowerment from numerous women that work hard to make a difference and positively impact their community,” Katie says. “These women are humble, passionate, and tough as nails, and their example has inspired me to do the same.”
A lot of friends and mentors have encouraged and helped Katie along the way, but she says her family has made a lot of sacrifices to see her succeed.
“I owe my success to my family,” she says. “Knowing I have made them proud drives me forward.”
Lindsay Combs Jones of Floyd’s 99 Cuts, Color, Shaves
124 Malabu Dr. Ste. 150 • Lexington • 859.551.3470 • FloydsBarbershop.com
Lindsay Combs Jones lived in Los Angeles in her twenties and worked in television development before joining an international brand in their marketing and brand management departments. After visiting a Floyd’s in her neighborhood, Lindsay fell in love with the brand. When Lindsay moved back to Kentucky, she was determined to open a Floyd’s in Lexington.
As owner/operator of the Lexington Floyd’s 99 Cuts, Color, Shaves, Lindsay tries to combine her work, family and social life as much as possible. Floyd’s is not your typical shop, in fact, Floyd’s offers a full menu of services for both men and women. Luckily for Lindsay, Floyd’s is also a unique hangout, which makes work more like a fun, social engagement. Plus, as Lindsay explained, Floyd’s has its own radio station, so work often feels like a dance party.
“Working hard is very rewarding for me and with the help and support of my family, I’ve learned to make certain things a priority,” she says. “I also try not to over-stress about things that are out of my control, which reminds me that every day is a gift.”
When Lindsay moved back from Los Angeles, she worried that Lexington was too small to house her dreams. She quickly learned that she was very wrong, and says she’s thrilled to be part of such an exciting time in the growth of Lexington and to be in a supportive community of entrepreneurial women.
“We are truly putting Lexington on the map,” she says. “Women who manage to provide for their family and still be actively involved in their children’s lives, are so inspiring to me.”
As a business owner, Lindsay has learned that her strong work ethic and time management skills are her secret weapon.
“Nothing feels better at the end of the day than knowing you really took the bull by the proverbial horns,” she says. “Time management is key in keeping a balanced life, but dry shampoo still gives me 30 extra minutes of sleep.”
Camellia Shirazi and Fariba Shirazi of Wellward Regenerative Medicine
101 N. Eagle Creek Dr. • Lexington • 859.275-4878 • WellwardMed.com
Dr. Camellia Shirazi began her medical career in anesthesiology where she focused on the physiology and biochemistry of the body. Her interests quickly evolved into the chemistry of the brain and how mood affects body function. Ultimately, she found her calling in psychiatry. She is a pioneer in this field and was one of the founders of the practice that is now Wellward Regenerative Medicine. The practice is unique in that it seeks sustainable, whole-health approaches to pain, changing the quality of life for their patients.
“I am inspired by helping others to overcome their challenges and make their life more tolerable,” she explains. That belief is reflected in everything Wellward does. They aim to address the source of pain through a comprehensive approach. “Our goal is to get you back to pursuing your life goals. At Wellward, we take an integrated approach to healing and address the whole person… whatever hurts.”
Her sister, Fariba Shirazi, helps make that goal a reality by treating the mind as a vital piece of the healing process for the body. As a certified life coach and Reiki practitioner, she wants everyone to be their best, authentic self.
“It is very important not to compare yourselves with others, as we are all complete and perfect individuals, having in mind that there is always room to grow,” she says. “Keep your spirit high. Be happy with yourself; be kind to yourself.”
“My success stems from love and care for others, but also myself; without love and care for myself, I cannot be of any help to others,” she says. She is inspired by authentic, humane, strong, wise women. She co-authored the book Who’s Going to Stop Us Now?, which shares the life stories of 15 unstoppable women.
“The future is created by new ideas. We are fearless in setting aside what doesn’t work to find new ideas that do.”
Sarah Woodworth of Monkee’s of Lexington
116 Clay Ave. • Lexington • 859.253.0427 • MonkeesofLexington.com
From teaching high school English, to stay at home mom, to Director of Sales Development for Matilda Jane Clothing, Sarah Woodworth “test drove” multiple careers prior to opening Monkee’s of Lexington, an upscale women’s boutique on Clay Avenue.
Although balancing family and work is always a challenge, Sarah is grateful to finally get to do what she loves.
“I have always wanted to own my own boutique,” Sarah says. “My parents taught me you have to have a passion for what you do to stay motivated and be successful. My family, and the sacrifices they’re making to let me work outside the home, motivates me every day. Sometimes I think I’m not balancing family and work very well, but the longer I’ve had the store, the more I’ve realized that everything is just fine without me in it every day.”
She’s thankful for all her amazing managers and employees, who love the store like she does, allowing her to spend time with her husband and children. As a working mom, Sarah has surrounded herself with other women who are also entrepreneurs and small business owners, trying to juggle raising children and growing their businesses.
“Comradery is so important! I’m thankful for my girlfriends who have started their own businesses while raising a family. They get it,” she says.
As the shopping scene in Lexington continues to grow, Sarah has come to realize that the competition isn’t a detriment, but rather further inspiration to grow and
succeed.
“Through the years, I’ve learned that competition is positive for all of us,” she says. “There are so many amazing, established boutiques in Lexington that are owned by intelligent and talented women. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by it all, but I’ve learned the competition actually inspires me to work harder.”
Kaelyn Query of LexEffect Events + Management
203 West Second St. • Lexington • 859.230.5365 • LexEffectKY.com
Kaelyn Query, founder and president of LexEffect Events + Management, started the business at the age of 14, on accident. In her 16 years of being in the event planning industry, Kaelyn has worked and learned about every part of the food, beverage, hospitality and entertainment industry.
“The company was named LexEffect in 2013 when the business was growing beyond a ‘side hustle,’” Kaelyn says. “Today, we own and operate events across the country as well as own and/or operate five venues in central Kentucky.”
Kaelyn says her biggest challenge as a young female business owner is that sometimes people think they don’t have to take her as seriously, but she has learned from every mistake and is always motivated to work harder than the person next to her.
“Sometimes you have to be the first one there and the last one to leave,” she says, “It doesn’t feel like work though because our clients are the best and we love what we do.”
Abby Vaughn of Unified Trust Company
2353 Alexandria Dr. Ste. 100 • Lexington • 859.514.3345 • UnifiedTrust.com
Abby Vaughn, AIF® has been in the financial industry for more than 30 years. She started her career in Prestonsburg, Ky., and her career background has been diverse ever since. She’s worked for a Fortune 500 company, the largest global wealth management firm and now a fiduciary firm.
“Unified Trust Company truly focuses on the best interest of the client from both a wealth and retirement planning perspective,” she says. “My inspiration for working are the people I work for, the clients. What drives me is helping my clients achieve their financial goals by always putting their best interest first.”
One of Abby’s biggest challenges in the industry is that people often feel overwhelmed when it comes to their finances and can be immobilized when it comes to making a move. Abby wants clients to consider the true value of service with a goal driven approach.
“I surround myself with people I believe in and trust, and I pass that trust onto my clients. Trust is the foundation to success,” Abby says. “My clients can trust that I will be there, in constant communication and working to exceed their expectations. I value my close relationships with them and try to exceed their expectations.”
Kim Davis of Patient Choice Ultrasound and Thermography
152 W. Tiverton Way Ste. 120 • Lexington • 859.554.7360 •PatientChoiceUltrasound.com
Kim Davis began her imaging career as a Radiologic Technologist student in 1976 at the University of Kentucky, but spent most of spare time in the ultrasound lab learning the new and exciting technology of diagnostic ultrasound.
Shortly after graduating, she received a call from a leading radiologist in the field, Dr. Andrew Fried. “Dr. Fried knew of a hospital needing a sonographer in Elizabethtown, Ky., and recommended me for the position,” says Kim. “At that time, there weren’t any ultrasound schools, but the hospital would send me to wherever I needed to be trained—I went to courses in Florida, St. Louis, Cleveland and Canada. This started my love affair with this technology.”
As an ultrasonographer, Kim is a medical professional who uses equipment that produces sound waves of high frequency for non-invasive diagnostic procedures. Kim learned anatomy with pathologists during autopsies and was often invited into the operating room to observe surgical cases. In 1979, she became registered in both abdominal and ob/gyn ultrasound.
Then Kim went on to Frankfort, Ky. to become the Director of Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine and Cat Scan Department at Frankfort Regional Medical Center. She then added adult echocardiography to her skill set and earned her Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) in 1988. She has also earned her vascular registry in 2013 and will obtain her breast registry in 2018.
Kim saw a need for change, especially with the high cost of healthcare and it’s lack of transparency. Unable to truthfully answer her patients’ question “will my insurance pay for this?”, Kim saw an alternative. Patient Choice Ultrasound and Thermography eliminated the need for insurance with the exception of Medicare, and reduced the overall cost, which includes the interpretation fee, making it totally transparent from the start.
As owner and technical director at Patient Choice Ultrasound and Thermography, Kim is passionate about her career in diagnostic ultrasound. She brings experience, knowledge, compassion and professionalism to her patients. She strives to offer services with less hassle, more transparency and an overall wonderful experience.
Kim lost her beloved brother and business partner, Jim, in 2017. “As I move forward without him in business, I honor him by empowering patients with a choice in their healthcare, both conventional and alternative,” she says. “I think to succeed you must have integrity, passion, resilience, flexibility and throw the clock out the window.”
Jennifer Fuson of Lexington Women’s Health
1720 Nicholasville Rd. Ste. 702 • Lexington • 859.264.881 • lexingtonwomens.com
Over two decades, Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist Dr. Jennifer Fuson has provided care to thousands of Kentucky families. She started Lexington Women’s Health Obstetrics, Gynecology and Midwifery in 2007, but prior to that she was with a large OB/GYN group practice for nearly 10 years.
“At Lexington Women’s Heath, we have more than 40 employees that I rely on immensely—they are the backbone of our practice,” she says. “From the first engagement, either online, by phone or in person, each individual represents Lexington Women’s Health. I want our patients, and our employees, to see someone that demonstrates hard work and commitment to getting it right.”
As Dr. Fuson explained, the demands of running a medical practice are tremendous. With patient care as her first priority, she has learned that much of the office work needs to be done before or after hours.
“I must mind everything that goes into the health of the practice from quality, service, marketing and finance,” she says. “I find that utilizing early mornings dramatically improves my efficiency. My husband makes time to handle the morning routine at home, allowing me to get out of the house early. Mornings are quiet, so I can contemplate and that is when my creative thinking happens. I prep for the patient care of the day by doing chart reviews prior to patient arrivals, this also dramatically improves my ability to be thorough and keep up with the ever expanding documentation required.”
Thanks to the support of Dr. Fuson’s partners and staff, she is able to keep family weekends free to travel with her son’s soccer team. Dr. Fuson will be the first to tell you that her partners allow her the ability to take those call weekends at other times, which is invaluable to her family.
“In my experience, opportunities do not present when you have free time and resources, often just the opposite. There are business opportunities that are easier, more profitable or allow more free time, but I’ve learned that if it is not my expertise or passion, I will never be satisfied. I continue to be inspired by all women who find their passion and make a life around it.”
Brenda Bragonier of Kentucky Bank
339 Main St. • Paris • 859.988.1373 • kybank.com
Brenda Bragonier, Senior Vice President and Director of Marketing and the Customer Service Center for Kentucky Bank, says that her workplace believes in putting the local community first.
“Creating stronger communities is very important to us at Kentucky Bank,” she explains. “Our strong communities lead to thriving businesses, schools and families, from which we all benefit.”
Kentucky Bank has a history that dates back to 1851. Headquartered in Paris, KY, the banking institution now has 17 offices located in 11 cities throughout the state. According to their company profile, Kentucky Bank is a community bank at heart, aiming to deliver premier customer service and financial performance.
Since 1979, Brenda has worked with Kentucky Bank, which has been named among the Best Places to Work in Kentucky from 2012 -2018. “My career with Kentucky Bank in Marketing and Customer Service has been a great experience. Marketing is involved with every aspect of the bank and our communities,” she says. “Understanding what people need and telling Kentucky Bank’s story has been very rewarding.” She admits that finding a balance between her career and personal life can be difficult for her, as it is for everyone. “Most people are challenged by how to fit everything into the day. Priorities and balance tend to change over the course of a career depending on work and family pressures at the time,” she explains.
Her biggest challenge, however, was to believe in herself and push herself to do more than she ever thought she could achieve. “I wish there were a secret to pass along, but I have found that the path to success is seldom easy. The only way I know to succeed is simply through hard work and perseverance,” she advises. “There are countless women throughout history that have exhibited strength, grace and creativity while managing complex situations. Adopting those traits has helped me succeed.”
Brenda says that the future is looking bright for Kentucky’s Leading Ladies. “I am really excited about the career opportunities available now for women in the Bluegrass,” she says. “Mentor and help other women succeed: help them find their path.”
Ranada Riley of Johnny Carino’s
2333 Sir Barton Way • Lexington • 859.264.1049 • Carinos.com
Ranada Riley, Executive General Manager at Johnny Carino’s, started her career in the hospitality business with a local Italian restaurant in 1997.
“I’ve been in the hospitality industry ever since. I have worked my way up the ladder to become an Executive Chef/Restaurateur as well as an Executive General Manager,” she says. “My goal is to make dining out not just about the food, but the experience.”
Coming from a diverse background, Ranada has also been inspired to pave a better path for women pursuing a career in the hospitality industry. She says that her secret ingredient to success is her staff. While Ranada has been in the hospitality industry for many years, she says she still finds herself learning something new almost daily.
“We have an arsenal of some real rock stars—I cannot thank my staff enough,” she says. “My advice for other working women, including women on my staff, is to never miss an opportunity to network and build relationships in the community, particularly with women in and outside of your field. Also, never lose sight of your goals. And when you achieve those goals, set more.”
Dana Back-Pack of Fairway Independent Mortgage
505 Wellington Way Ste. 110 • Lexington • 859.621.0169 • KYmortgageNINJA.com
Dana Back-Pack has been in the mortgage industry since 2001. She takes great pride in having a stellar reputation and always keeping her clients’ best interests at heart.
“I’ve been the go-to lender of choice for thousands of homeowners and realtors throughout central Kentucky,” she says. “It’s extremely rewarding helping my clients achieve their dreams of homeownership.”
In 2014, Dana partnered with Fairway Independent Mortgage as Branch Manager to open their first location in Kentucky, which has now grown to 12 offices in six cities. She has also earned a well-deserved nickname as the
#KYMortgageNINJA.
“I love what I do,” Dana says. “One of the greatest aspects of my job is when I see the impact a home loan can have in the lives of my clients. I love that each day is different because there’s always a new challenge and new people to work with.”
Dana has found the proper balance between her work and personal life by keeping her core values intact and letting them guide the way. She also credits having an incredibly supportive team, fun friends and a loving husband who keep her grounded.
Johanna Ellison, Taft McKinstry and Susan Kennedy of Fowler Bell
300 West Vine St. • Lexington • 859.252.6700• FowlerLaw.com
Fowler Bell’s female attorneys, Johanna Ellison, Taft McKinstry and Susan Kennedy, are inspired by the pursuit of excellence to meet the needs of their clients and business clients. These three female attorneys recognize that it is not only a privilege, but also a pleasure to meet the challenges and solve problems for people; be it Workers’ Compensation Defense Law; Bankruptcy Law such as a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing or a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, Commercial Transaction, or Commercial Litigation; or Family Law matters such as divorce or custody and
time-sharing family matters.
Fowler Bell PLLC, as it is currently known, was formed in 1897 as Breathitt & Fowler. Today the firm is a respected leader in commercial, bankruptcy and litigation law known for finding practical solutions to complex matters through “person to person” legal services. The firm has evolved into a premier law firm in bankruptcy and creditors’ rights due in part to the current leadership, tenacity, and professionalism of Taft McKinstry the current Managing Member.
“Fowler Bell PLLC hired me for the position of attorney in 1972 when, to my knowledge, I became the fifth female to practice law in Fayette County,” says Taft. “In 1972, ‘women were not supposed to be attorneys.’ Fowler Bell gave me the opportunity to prove otherwise.”
All three of Fowler Bell’s female attorneys agree that avoiding over-scheduling, and getting enough rest and sleep, are challenges for both working women and men today.
“I make time in my schedule for work and personal life because I want to,” says Johanna. “My legal career makes me proud, but that’s not the only important facet of my life. I want my children to see that their mom is hard-working and a family plus career is possible. I also want them to remember that I was, and I am, there for them. Having that goal in my mind makes balance easier.”
Susan, the firm’s family law attorney, didn’t realize how much her work inspired her until some health issues required her to take some time off.
“Sometimes you don’t realize how much you enjoy what you do until you can’t do it,” Susan says. “Taft inspires all of us at the firm to be our best. She has been a strong woman in the legal community who has led the way for the rest of us. I am also inspired and amazed by the younger women attorneys, like Johanna Ellison—their energy helps give me energy!”
Taft, who paved the way for female attorneys in Fayette County more than 40 years ago, passes this advice along: “Be professional at all times, so dress professional, act professional, and form a network of other professionals in your chosen field as a basis for brainstorming and referrals. Get out there and get to be known.”
Holly Goeing of The Prissy Peach Boutique
882 E. High St. • Lexington • 859.382.7611 • ShopThePeach.com
When Owner Holly Goeing decided to open a women’s fashion boutique, her top priority was making a full-service shop with a savvy fashion team dedicated to impeccable service. “Our customer service is second to none,” Holly says. “I am quite the stickler when it comes to personal attention to our customers. I want each customer to feel welcomed, relaxed and leave our boutique with a smile on their face and feeling confident that they have purchased an outfit that will make them feel beautiful.”
Something unique about The Prissy Peach is that it serves a variety of tastes, sizes and budgets from brands that can’t be found elsewhere. That’s no mistake. “I personally love all fashion styles. My store is a reflection of my taste.” She thinks it’s important to be different. She says, “Set yourself apart from the competition! I put every effort into finding unique brands that are exclusive to our store. Our stylists and I attend numerous markets throughout the year in search of new designers.”
She adds, “Our customers love the fact that they can come in and shop with their daughters or their mothers in the same location and each walk out with the perfect item. It’s difficult to find a boutique that offers the selection we offer.”
They are proud to have two Central Kentucky brick and mortar locations, including one on Main Street in Winchester, and an online shop. With that success naturally comes some challenges. “I have a hectic schedule. Between two stores, two kids and a busy husband, I can’t say that I have mastered the balancing act,” Holly says. “Time management is an everyday struggle for me.”
She is motivated to succeed by her children. She says, “I want teach them work ethic. I want my children to realize that you have to put forth the effort for it to pay off. Don’t just sit back and wait for things to happen. Get out there, work hard and make it happen!”
She knows that the road for a business owner is not an easy one. She advises, “Be prepared to hustle! Owning a business is not for the faint at heart. It takes hard work and dedication to reach success.”