In an inspiring convergence of leadership, the Women and Men Leadership Conference, held on August 8-9, 2024, brought together some of the most influential voices in business, athletics, community development, and beyond. Organized by DRC Ventures and Elysian, the conference celebrated diversity and inclusivity in leadership, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between women and men across various sectors.
Day 1: A Kickoff to Connection
The event began with an intimate kickoff on August 8 at a private residence in Nashville, setting the stage for the two-day conference. This gathering, attended by speakers and participants alike, created an atmosphere of collaboration and connection that carried into the next day. Reflecting on the personal nature of the event, Anita Zucker, keynote speaker and business leader, explained, “I think that events like this are phenomenal because it’s kind of small… what’s nice about it is everybody gets to know each other, and if you have one particular person that you really want to talk to after you’ve heard them speak, it’s very easy to get to that person to find out what you need or what can help you.”
Day 2: Leaders Take the Stage
On August 9, the main conference took place, featuring thought-provoking panels and discussions that offered attendees the opportunity to learn from a wide range of accomplished leaders. The day kicked off with a powerful keynote speech by Zucker, whose insights into leadership, philanthropy, and community engagement set a tone of inspiration for the rest of the event.
Following Zucker’s keynote, the first panel showcased a distinguished group of women leaders. Lori Taylor, founder and CEO of Rev Media Marketing LLC and Galactic Legacy Labs LLC, shared her experiences navigating the rapidly evolving world of media and technology. Katherine O’Neil, CEO of Spartanburg One, offered valuable perspectives on leadership in education, while Dawn Ellerbe, senior associate athletic director at Vanderbilt University, spoke passionately about breaking barriers in the world of sports administration. These leaders were joined by Jenn Hildebrandt, CEO of Fearless Entrepreneur, and Renae Eichholz, founder and president of Prevision Practice Management, who shared their insights into healthcare leadership and empowering business owners.
Mentorship and Empowerment: A Central Theme
One of the highlights of the conference was the second panel, which focused on the importance of mentorship and empowerment in leadership. Led by Dr. Christina Rahm, founder and CEO of DRC Ventures, the panel explored how mentorship has shaped the careers of successful women and continues to drive their professional and personal growth. Dr. Rahm explained in an interview, “I feel like that’s how the world needs to grow. If we look at life like we’re family, we might be able to make a different, you know, more of a change for the positive instead of acting like we’re all so important or we’re better than someone else or there’s someone less than us.”
Speakers like Jessica Word, CEO of Word & Brown General Agency, and Dr. Alveda King, founder and president of Speak for Life, added their voices to this discussion, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship in fostering leadership across industries. The session featured diverse perspectives from Carmel Fauci, Director of NFP Insurance, Grace Nicholson, investment advisor and founder of Akamai Advisors, and Tammy Kovar, founder and CEO of Biological Tree Services. Together, they shared stories of overcoming challenges and creating opportunities for others.
Collaboration Across Genders
A refreshing element of the conference was the focus on men in leadership roles and their support for women leaders. This segment, featuring a dynamic group of male leaders, emphasized the importance of mutual support across gender lines in professional environments. Participants appreciated the holistic view of leadership that showcased the benefits of working together toward common goals, regardless of gender.
As Dr. Rahm continued in the interview, “We are all imperfect pieces to a perfect puzzle. Each person has a unique role to play, and when we come together, we can create something truly powerful.” This sentiment resonated throughout the conference, as attendees engaged in lively discussions and collaborative networking sessions between panels.
A Legacy of Leadership
As the conference drew to a close, the atmosphere buzzed with the energy of new connections and shared wisdom. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, empowered by the diverse perspectives and personal stories shared over the two days. The event underscored the importance of mentorship, diversity, and collaboration in leadership, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The Women and Men Leadership Conference, presented by DRC Ventures and Elysian, proved to be a powerful platform for fostering dialogue, celebrating leaders, and inspiring future collaborations. As one participant put it, “This event wasn’t just about listening—it was about learning, connecting, and growing together.”
