InfluenceHER Podcast by The Baker Agency

What happens when you leave the fast-paced corporate world to build something bigger than yourself? The Baker Agency founder and CEO, Megan Baker, sits down with Nicole Waters, founder of Amplify Women Tampa Bay, community advocate and executive director of St. Petersburg's EDGE District. Nicole shares her journey from Mercedes-Benz in Miami to becoming one of Tampa Bay's most influential communit...

What does it look like to build a business, raise four daughters and create a community centered around supporting women? In this episode of InfluenceHER, The Baker Agency Founder and CEO Megan Baker speaks with Catherine Hover, founder and CEO of Palette Community, a coworking and membership community focused on supporting women in business and life. Catherine reflects on how Palette Community ha...

In this episode of InfluenceHER, The Baker Agency founder and CEO, Megan Baker, speaks with Ashleigh Lindsay, founder and CEO of Digitally Grounded, a marketing and branding firm that helps businesses grow with purpose and authenticity. Lindsay discusses her path into entrepreneurship, the meaning behind “Digitally Grounded” and how she works with clients to turn ideas into practical strategies. S...

Megan Baker talks with Jennifer Lawrence, founder and CEO of the SEAT Center in Schenectady, about empowering underrepresented young adults to build skills, find careers and create a “seat at the table.” Jennifer shares her journey, the challenges young people face, how YouthBuild Schenectady supports them and inspiring stories that show the lasting impact of opportunity and inclusion.

Sujata Chaudhry, founder and CEO of Tangible Development, is a global educator, mom and leader in diversity, equity and inclusion. In our latest episode, she shares how growing up across cultures shaped her worldview, what inspired her to build a career in DEI and the moments where her work has made a real impact. Sujata also reflects on stepping down as CEO, what her next chapter holds and how sh...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, Megan Baker talks with Kelly Reilly Marx, founder of Grace Stables and child welfare advocate. Kelly shares how her lifelong love of horses shaped her leadership, the inspiration behind Grace Stables and lessons in resilience, patience and strength from both her work with children and her equestrian journey.

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker welcomes Brittany Kearney, founder and managing partner of Kearney Law in Tampa, Florida. Kearney shares what led her into the legal profession and the decision to launch her own firm, along with the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. The conversation explores how Kearney Law’s wide-ranging practice areas are unified by a client-first phil...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sat down with Teddy Foster, Director of Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. Teddy’s story begins in Fishkill, New York, where early family challenges shaped her grit, compassion and unshakable determination. From a high-achieving childhood to a long chapter in the corporate world, Teddy ultimately found her calling in community develop...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sits down with Terri Balliet—child welfare leader, nonprofit innovator and candidate for St. Petersburg City Council. From her early work as a case manager to launching the internationally recognized CALL program, Terri has dedicated her career to protecting children, strengthening families and building safer communities. Now, as head of the Childr...

On this episode of InfluenceHER, host Megan Baker sits down with Julie McBride—former Syracuse standout, international pro and now head coach of Hoosac Prep’s girls varsity basketball team. Julie shares her remarkable journey from competing on courts around the world to leading and inspiring the next generation of athletes. She reflects on lessons from her 15-year professional career, the challeng...

On this episode of InfluenceHER , host Megan Baker sits down with Maria Brady, entrepreneur, author and Certified Energy Codes Coach, whose story is a testament to the power of positivity and purpose. After facing a life-threatening cancer diagnosis, Maria transformed her journey into a mission to help others embrace joy, launching ichosehappy.live and an inspirational gift line. Tune in as Maria...

In this heartfelt episode of InfluenceHER, we welcome Mary Colwell, attorney and co-founder of the Colwell Law Group in Upstate New York. Mary shares her powerful story of navigating unimaginable grief after the loss of her husband, Kevin Colwell, while continuing to lead her firm with courage and purpose. Her journey is a moving testament to love, resilience, and the unwavering strength of women...

When Meaghan Smith became a caregiver to her husband at a young age, her life changed in ways she never expected. Now an author, she shares her deeply personal journey through caregiving, grief and ultimately, the rediscovery of love. Her journey offers a moving reminder that even in our darkest moments, healing and new beginnings are possible.

Jerilee Beaudoin is the newly appointed President and CEO of Sunmark Credit Union, who brings over 34 years of experience in the financial services industry. She sat down with Megan Baker in the studio to share her inspiring journey to the top, the evolution of the industry, and how her leadership style has been shaped by both experience and education. This episode is a conversation full of leader...

Jenna Bosi has devoted her career to creating safe spaces for children, women, and families in need. Based in Pittsburgh, Pa., she is the founder of 412 Foster Project and brings over ten years of experience in acute mental health, child welfare, and nonprofit management. After working in child welfare, Jenna left her full-time position to launch 412 Foster Project with the goal of bridging gaps i...

Deshanna C. Wiggins is an Albany native with a passion for service. As the CEO of the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce, Deshanna is dedicated to empowering and supporting minority-owned small businesses. Since taking the helm, Deshanna has helped grow the Chamber to over 100 members. In this episode, she sits down with Megan Baker to discuss her journey back home, her wealth of experience and how...

It’s been an incredible year for our podcast, filled with inspiring stories and remarkable guests. We’re so grateful to everyone who shared their journeys and insights with us. Take a look back at the highlights from our 2024 episodes featuring Kimberly Adams Russell, Allianna Moximchalk, Monica Kurzejeski, Jackie Zumba, Priya Winston, Dr. Sandra Braham, Francine Apy, Terese LaVallee, Elisa Caro a...

Christian Hardigree has served as the regional chancellor of the University of South Florida’s St. Petersburg campus since May 2022. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, she is deeply committed to fostering strong community connections. During her first fall semester at USF, Hurricane Ian struck, and she seized the moment to establish protocols for handling natural disasters, incl...

November is National Adoption Month! As the founder of SoulFilling, Francine Apy works with families as an Adoptive Parent Coach, where she uses her own experience to serve as a resource and sounding board to anyone interested in adoption. She joined Megan Baker to discuss how she aspires to be a beacon of hope for anyone on an adoption journey. Join SoulFilling in several local events to celebrat...

In anticipation of Children's Grief Awareness Month this November, we are welcoming Terese LaVallee, Director of the Highmark Caring Place on this month's episode! She joined Megan Baker in Pittsburgh to discuss the meaningful impact that the Caring Place has on children and adults suffering from grief.

With over 20 years of nonprofit experience, Dr. Sandra Braham strives to connect people with the services they need to succeed. She joined Megan Baker in St. Petersburg to discuss how her past experiences and the support of others led her to her calling in the human services field.

Dr. Priya Winston works every day to break down barriers for youth and young adults with Autism and other learning differences. She joined Megan Baker in our studio to discuss her story and the importance of being a role model to those she inspires.

Jackie Zumba is the Founder and Owner of Jackie Z style company. She has used her personal experiences and hardships to drive her success from a young age. She joined Megan Baker in St. Petersburg to discuss what drives her and how to continually evolve in the trending marketplace.

Jennifer Goldstock is a nurse practitioner with SynRG integrative health and wellness. She is helping women from all walks of life live a healthier lifestyle and she brings her own experiences to the forefront. Jennifer joined Megan Baker in our studio to discuss a topic in women's health that is a mystery to many, menopause.

Elisa Caro understands the importance of communications – whether it is working with clients to establish customizable telecom solutions or helping to mold the next generation of business leaders. Elisa sat down with Megan Baker in Saint Petersburg, Florida to discuss how she uses her experience to mentor the next generation and shares some advice for young professionals.