Women with Voices "LIVE YOUR WHY, UNSTOPPBLE 2025" Summit

Women with Voices "LIVE YOUR WHY, UNSTOPPABLE 2025" Summit

"Live Your Why, UNSTOPPABLE Summit 2025"! Join Women with Voices at Zenia Omaha for an empowering summit that brings together local powerhouse community leaders and dynamic women ready to discover their purpose and unleash their full potential.

Prepare to be inspired by compelling keynote speakers, dive deep into transformative breakout sessions, and engage in thought-provoking discussions that will challenge and uplift you. This is your opportunity to connect with like-minded women, embrace your "why," and become genuinely UNSTOPPABLE. Don't miss this incredible chance to grow, shop, and thrive. We can’t wait to see you there

Sandy Spady Keynote Speaker:

Founder of Women with Voices/ Power Up Leadership Coaching/Public Speaker

With an extensive background as a change maker, entrepreneur, thought leader, and visionary, Sandy masterfully connects with audiences, leaving an indelible impact. Her profound understanding of conquering fear and embracing unique talents fuels Sandy's passion for guiding individuals toward unlocking their true potential. Through her guidance, she provides a clear vision, nurturing dreams and desires into reality.

Within Omaha's vibrant business landscape, Sandy is a prominent figure, leveraging her extensive network to coach and collaborate with professionals. With over 35 years of multifaceted experience spanning sales, team building, media television, print and radio sales, PR, and nonprofit ventures, Sandy is the astute Founder and CEO of Power Up Leadership Coaching & Consulting. Her visionary leadership has also birthed Women with Voices, a powerful networking group empowering women to share stories and triumphs. Sandy's remarkable contributions haven't gone unnoticed. She's been honored with prestigious awards like the 50/50 Award in 2021 and the esteemed Phenomenal Woman Inspiration Award in 2023. Her expertise and influence have been showcased in eminent publications, including Strictly Business Magazine, Midlands Business Journal, Sister Speaker Spotlight Feature, Authority Magazine, BOLD Magazine, and The Daily Record.

Sandy's entrepreneurial spirit manifests in the form of the talk show Power Up KPAO. Through this platform, she brings together community leaders and inspirational individuals, amplifying their impact and fostering a culture of change.Katie joined ACCESSbank in 2016. She has worked in various capacities, including business development and sales in consumer and commercial banking, banking operations, and leadership. Katie is the Executive Vice President responsible for overseeing all functions of Consumer Banking, including Personal and Executive Banking, Mortgage Lending, and Consumer Underwriting, as well as the Marketing Department. Beyond her professional achievements, Katie is engaged in community service. She serves on the Board of Directors as secretary for Angels Among Us, president of Suburban Rotary of Omaha, and is a member of Leadership Omaha, Class 46.

Katie Henry Opening Keynote Speaker:

Katie Henry Excutive Vice President of ACCESS Bank.

Katie joined ACCESS bank in 2016. She has worked in various capacities, including business development and sales in consumer and commercial banking, banking operations, and leadership. Katie is the Executive Vice President responsible for overseeing all functions of Consumer Banking, including Personal and Executive Banking, Mortgage Lending, and Consumer Underwriting, as well as the Marketing Department. Beyond her professional achievements, Katie is engaged in community service. She serves on the Board of Directors as secretary for Angels Among Us, president of Suburban Rotary of Omaha, and is a member of Leadership Omaha, Class 46.

Kristi Anderson: Leadership Panel Speaker:

Kristi Andersen Communications, LLC

Kristi brings a unique skillset in both communications and commercial real estate.

In addition to being a well-respected public relations expert with more than 25 years of communications experience, Kristi is a successful commercial real estate broker who was ranked among the top five brokers at CBRE in 2023.

Highly networked and very familiar with commercial real estate through her previous news media roles and as the former spokesperson and Director of Communication for the Metropolitan Entertainment & Convention Authority (MECA). Kristi has developed a comprehensive command of the Omaha market. Her extensive experience with communication and her market knowledge provide Kristi’s clients with both trust and confidence at the negotiation table.

Kristi began her career as a television journalist, working in newsrooms nationwide and covering everything from presidential campaigns to Hurricane Katrina.

She left the news industry to serve as the Nebraska Press Secretary for United States Senator Mike Johanns.

Before starting her communications consulting business and real estate career, Kristi was the Director of Communications at MECA. In this role, she was the company spokesperson and handled all internal and external communications for MECA, Charles Schwab Field, and CHI Health Center Omaha. Kristi has played key roles in communications, event management, and publicity for nationally televised events such as the Olympic Swim Trials, NCAA College World Series, and world championship boxing.

Giving back to her community is very important to Kristi. She serves on many local boards, including the Girl Scouts, DREAM, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Kristi is also a proud wife of 19 years to Ryan and mother to two teenagers Gavin and Finley.

Dina Becirovic Leadership Panel Speaker:

Dina BecirovicChief Executive OfficerThe Bloc, Inc

Dina is a distinguished leader and CEO of The Bloc Inc., where she has shaped the organization’s strategic vision and success. As a founding board member and Chief Operating Officer until January 2024, she was pivotal in expanding community outreach and securing crucial funding. Since transitioning to CEO in January 2024, Dina has focused on driving strategic development and organizational growth. Her extensive operations, HR, and educational leadership background enhance her ability to tackle complex challenges and promote inclusive, collaborative environments. Currently pursuing a doctorate in Entrepreneurial & Educational Leadership at Johns Hopkins University, Dina combines advanced academic insights with her extensive leadership experience. Her strategic development and continuous improvement expertise position her as a transformative force in the non-profit and educational sectors.

Taylor Johnson Leadership Panel Speaker:

Taylor Johnson WOWT Weekend Evening Anchor/Reporter

Taylor Johnson is a journalist with a passion for service. In November 2022, she joined 6 News WOWT as a weekend anchor and reporter.

Since moving to Omaha, Taylor has been very active in the community, serving on the board of directors for the Midlands African Chamber and the leadership board of the Nebraska Arthritis Association.

She's also emceed several events for organizations, including the Urban League of Nebraska, Susan G. Komen, EPIC for Girls, and many more.

Before her move to the Husker state, Taylor employed her dynamic storytelling abilities as a reporter at KCTV5 News in Kansas City. There, she had the opportunity to cover a vast array of news, from separate visits from President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden to all the excitement behind the Kansas City Chiefs. She also served as weekend evening anchor and reporter at WTWO in Terre Haute, Ind.

Taylor got her start in broadcast news as a digital content producer at ABC13 News in Lynchburg, Va., where she produced several segments online and helped the team win an Associated Press award for best website.

Originally from Prince George’s County in Maryland, Taylor spent her younger years exploring neighboring Washington, D.C., where she learned a vast amount of cultural and American history.

Taylor is a proud Terp with a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Maryland in College Park. She is also passionate about sharing her wisdom with up-and-coming journalists through mentorship.

Andrea ‘Andee’ Hoig Leadership Panel Speaker:

Andrea ‘Andee’ Hoig

CEO/Publisher

Midlands Business Journal & ALH Publications, Inc.

For close to 40 years, Andee Hoig has been making a difference in publishing and media in the Omaha metro area. For the first three decades, Andee dedicated her expertise and passion to capturing the philanthropic spirit and community goodwill across Omaha and Council Bluffs and their surrounding regions. Through her leadership and commitment—and in the very early days, her photography skills—the endeavors of thousands of individuals and organizations striving for positive change were shared with the community. Over the years, metroMAGAZINE coverage showcased not only the people making a difference, but also the activities that raised millions of dollars for the nonprofits they represented.

In 2020, Andee stepped into the role of CEO and publisher of Midlands Business Journal, a respected weekly newspaper founded by her father in 1975. Guided by his legacy, Andee has brought renewed vigor to this esteemed publication, furthering its mission to amplify the voices of local businesses and shine a light on entrepreneurs, business leaders, and change-makers.

Andee’s ALH Publications team has a steadfast dedication to producing media that fosters positive community impact. Its publications and digital and broadcast media serve as conduits to connect individuals, businesses, and charitable causes, enriching the landscape of philanthropy and nurturing connections that foster the spirit of community.

Beyond her journalistic endeavors, Andee is a seasoned public speaker who shares the wisdom of her unique media leadership experience with corporate and private audiences, going beyond conventional topics to delve into the world of philanthropy and community engagement. Her enthusiasm for holistic well-being infuses her presentations, inspiring listeners to embrace wellness in all aspects of life.

In an era marked by transformation and resilience, Andee not only upholds her father’s publishing legacy but enhances it with her own distinctive style. She conveys optimism to her community and beyond and empowers others to effect change in their sphere of influence.

Megan Hale Break-out Speaker:

Scaling Strategist for Social EntrepreneursFounder of DreamMoney™

Megan is a soulful business strategist and money mentor for women and femme coaches, consultants, helpers, and healers who are here to change the world with their wisdom and be intentional agents of social change. She expertly guides her clients to distill their unique brilliance into transformational offers that deliver their work, develop values-driven sales strategies prioritizing relationships, and step into the financial leadership their businesses need to thrive.

As a former psychotherapist, she knows firsthand the importance of developing a heart-driven strategy and savvy financial wisdom to drive sustainable growth and meaningful impact. At the core of her work is her DreamMoney™ Method—a holistic financial framework explicitly designed for soulful business owners to build more money mastery while also providing the tools you need to design a custom business that can intentionally fund your dreams.

She's big on helping you ground down your definition of wealth, learn the practical and soulful skills that build financial confidence, and develop an aligned business strategy that holistically supports your business, your life, and your energy! Learn more at meganhale.co.

Susan Corpus Entrepreneurship Panel Speaker:

Susan and her husband, Dr. Ralph Corpuz, own Corpuz Family Dentistry. When not wearing a marketing hat, Susan enjoys speaking to various groups about the Five Love Languages. She has spoken to over 1500 wives, couples, teachers, and business colleagues. She has been on KVSS, 102.7, sharing her favorite topics, such as the Five Love Languages. She graduated from Creighton in 1988 and received her Master’s in Counseling in 1992.

Her goal is to introduce you to the Five Love Languages in leadership, teach you about the leadership love tank and why it matters, identify ways to speak the languages and share the importance of the five languages. She will identify ways that knowing the five Love Languages can help you in your life, personally and professionally.

The number one reason people switch jobs is because they don’t feel appreciated or that they matter. The Five Love Languages for Leaders is a great way to make sure everyone on your team feels like they DO matter. Our work suffers when our tanks are not full, and we feel defeated and criticized. However, when we are affirmed in the way we prefer, we excel. As leaders, we need to lead by example, and what better way than to apply and use the five love languages? Our team members are all different, and becoming aware of how they best receive affirmation and affirming them accordingly will bless the team and the ripple effect, which will be endless. When we take the time to learn the languages and ask the right questions, our team members will feel more appreciative and listened to. You will also learn the love languages of those most important to you, and you will know how to fill up their tank quickly and be able to keep it full. You will also understand what punctures the tank and how to avoid it. Learning love languages will help you grow in self-awareness and communicate more effectively with those who matter most to you and those you work with.

Natalie Micale Entrepreneurship Panel Speaker:

Natalie Micale

Founder & CEO of Oh Hello

Tory Burch Fellow 2023

Natalie Micale is a dynamic founder who fully commits to every endeavor—whether she's steering her company as the CEO of Oh Hello Agency or diving into a Tory Burch fellowship. Her strategic mindset is a key reason why so many brands and entrepreneurs turn to Oh Hello for their growth needs.

A proud Latina entrepreneur, Natalie began her career as a TV anchor and reporter in the Midwest, gaining unique insights into what truly engages an audience. Transitioning from television to the agency world, her role as Head of Business Development at Evol Empire deepened her understanding of the ROI companies expect from their agencies.

These experiences have fueled the remarkable evolution of Oh Hello from a brand innovation lab to a thriving creative digital firm. With a dedicated team of 20, Oh Hello continues to craft impactful brands that drive industry growth. Natalie’s blend of strategic acumen and humor—her favorite celebrity being Lucille Ball, a pioneer known for her memorable and groundbreaking work—ensures that clients receive both the expertise and the personable touch they need.

Dulce Sherman Leadership Panel Speaker:

Dulce M. Sherman, M.A.Owner and Chief Executive Advisor

Dulce is the Owner and Chief Executive Advisor of Sherman Executive Consulting, which provides expert Human Resources, Interim Leadership, and operations solutions to local nonprofits and businesses. She has over 30 years of Human Resources Leadership experience in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.

Dulce has a bachelor’s degree in human resources management, a master’s degree in management from Bellevue University, and an organizational development graduate-level certificate from the Fielding Graduate Institute. She is a senior certified professional by the Society for Human Resources Management, a graduate of the Inclusive Communities Lead Diversity program, and the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Nonprofit Executive Institute. Dulce is a contracted faculty member of the Inclusive Communities Transformational Leadership program, a Women’s Fund Replenish trainer, and certified in Emergenetics for adults/youth. She is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Dulce is a first-generation Latina born to immigrant parents from Mexico. She was raised in a small town in Nebraska. Her father was a minister and plant worker at Eaton Corporation. Her mother, who was most of her life a stay-at-home mother, did not speak English, finish school, or learn how to drive. Her parents taught her the importance of being a Latina, working hard, and helping all communities. Despite the family living in poverty, her parents instilled in her the importance of believing in hope, “Esperanza,” for a better future.

Sherman has dedicated her life to serving on several nonprofit boards. She serves on the Internship Advisory Council for UNO at Omaha and is an advisory board member for The Bloc of Nebraska. In the past, she was the board president for the Latino Center of the Midlands and a former board member for Girls, Inc. of Omaha, Millard Public Schools Foundation, and Heartland Workers Center. As a past civic engagement leader, she held several elected officer positions at the local and state level. In 2020, she was a state delegate and co-coalitions director for the national Presidential campaign, winning the CD2 blue dot. Dulce has presented at the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Young Professional’s Summit, CODE conference and planning committee, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Diversity Conference, DOT Highway Safety Conference, UNO OLLAS program, and the Latino Center of the Midlands Youth Summit.

Reflective of her community work, Dulce is a 50 over 50 Nonprofit award recipient, WCA (Women’s Center for Advancement) Tribute to Women Honoree, Women on a Mission for Change, Women of Color Nebraska Caucus, and a Bob Kerrey Volunteer award for her exceptional volunteerism.

Julie Hockney Entrepreneurship Panel Speaker:

Julie hockney|president / JH Interior Design

“A true visionary, Julie Hockney started her interior design business in her basement when her firstborn was eight weeks old and has grown into a successful firm with 15 employees and a branch in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. While increasing the interior design firm, Julie was dabbling in floral design for clients and saw a need for an event floral business. She started Bouquet, a floral design studio, in 2014. Bouquet is now a full-service floral studio handling everyday occasions, community events, and more than 75 weddings last year. In 2022, Julie expanded the retail side of her business, The Studio by JH, into a beautiful 2000-square-foot space in Clocktower Village. At the same time, she opened The Winery & Deli next door with a business partner. The restaurant reimagines a longtime Omaha favorite in the exact location.

Outside of her businesses, she consults with Heart Ministry Center on their social enterprise floral shop, Fresh Floral. She has served on the boards of Metropolitan Community College and ASID (American Society of Interior Designers). She is also active in the Nebraska Chapter of Entrepreneurs’ Organization, serving as marketing/communication chair and membership chair, and will soon be the organization’s first female president. She is married to local musician Rob Hockney, and they have two children.

While free time isn’t something Julie is too familiar with, she tries to sneak in some travel, workouts, and, of course, her friends whenever she can.”

Jessica Coffey & Amber R. Serrano-Wiley Break-out Speakers:

Meet the Co-Founders of CravingReal: Amber & Jessica

Life is messy...

Amber and Jessica know this all too well. As women juggling 5001 balls in the air, trying to keep their shit together with fake smiles plastered on their faces, they realized something: enough is enough. It's time to stop pretending and start being real. Amber and Jessica invite you to join a conversation where you can show up as your authentic self. This isn't a stuffy TED Talk with fancy PowerPoints and endless droning. Instead, it’s a safe space for honest, sometimes tragic, often complex stories and an open invitation for you to be genuine. You'll walk away expecting more from yourself and everyone around you!

Amber Serrano-Wiley

Imagine if "Cheers" were a person—that’s Amber. She's a natural connector with a magnetic personality who gets things done. For her, God comes first, family second, and then everything else. Amber is a devoted wife and mom to a lively little boy, a Parent Ambassador for the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative, and a Co-Founder of CravingReal.

Jessica

Jessica is a leader forged through life's toughest trials. She has a servant leader's heart, an infectious smile, and an energy that lights up any room. Her deep love for God and welcoming nature make her someone people are naturally drawn to. As a single mom to four beautiful girls – three here and one angel in heaven – Jessica brings a powerful and unique perspective to CravingReal.

Together, Jessica and Amber created the first MomsRising beacon in Nebraska. They tackle the critical issues facing women, mothers, and families by educating the public and mobilizing grassroots actions to:

Bring women’s and mothers' voices directly to our leaders.

Amplify women’s issues in the national dialogue and media.

Accelerate grassroots impact at state capitols and Capitol Hill.

Hold corporations accountable for fair treatment of women and mothers and ensure product safety.

Stay connected with Amber and Jessica through social media, their podcast, CravingReal.com, or even bat signals—they respond to all!

The MC The MC Shannon Bingham:

Shannon Bingham, Mrs. Midwest Intentional 2024, co-owner of the Nationally recognized Seven Salon., Mrs. Midwest Intentional 2024, co-owner of the Nationally recognized Seven Salon.

A local Omaha business owner for almost 20 years, an award-winning philanthropist, vice chair of a DHHS board, published cosmetologist and photographer, international traveling educator, wife, mom, and the current reigning Mrs Midwest International, Shannon Bingham is a strong voice for organizations across the metro and the Midwest. She has helped to raise awareness for causes dear to her along with those organizations that have positively impacted her family. She is an adoptive mother and has become a strong advocate and voice for adoptive families in the community.

Julie Shrader Entrepreneurship Panel Speaker:

Julie A. ShraderFounder/CEOInnocence Freed

Julie Shrader is the founder and CEO of Innocence Freed, a new anti-trafficking NGO based in Nebraska. Julie has spent the last 12 years as the Founder and CEO of Rejuvenating Women, which has since been renamed Restored Wings. During these years, Julie has worked with hundreds of trafficking survivors, families, and parents and has loved being an advocate. As Julie led Restored Wings, she was blessed to meet many incredible people who had been trafficked and to hear their stories. Julie had a vision in 2021 to start an on-site animal therapy residential program for trafficked children. In August of 2023, after 3 years of raising funds and searching for the right property, the children’s ranch was purchased by RW. After much preparation and volunteer time spent preparing the property, house parents were hired. They came from Washington and planned to move to Nebraska and start their new journey on April 1, 2024. Once trained, the ranch was ready to open for trafficked girls. The goal was mid to late May of 2024 to begin housing trafficked girls.

Tashiara Wilson Entrepreneurship Panel Speaker:

CEO OF True Purpose and Owner of Kochava Coffee: Entrepreneurship Panel Speaker

Tashiara was raised in Kansas City, MO, but her heart led her to Omaha, NE, over eight years ago. Alongside her husband Tyrece, she founded True Purpose, a nonprofit organization with a powerful vision: to see individuals in their community thrive. Driven by this vision, they established Kochava Coffee, a newly minted coffee shop located at 1901 Howard St. in Omaha. The coffee shop serves delicious brews and acts as a hub for community connection. Tashiara wears the hat of a serial entrepreneur. Currently, she's deeply involved in several projects across the city. One of these projects is the Summit Square townhomes development in Council Bluffs, IA. This initiative aims to create affordable housing options for moderate-income individuals and families. By doing so, Tashiara hopes to foster environments where everyone can reach their full potential. Her commitment to community development extends beyond housing. Tashiara has served on boards that directly impact youth and young women, advocating for their empowerment and leadership. In her free time, Tashiara enjoys traveling with her husband, Tyrece Wilson, whom she's been married to for a decade. Their three children—Avery (16), Savannah (9), and Charlotte (3)- add joy and adventure to their family.

Tashiara's story exemplifies the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and community engagement. Her work leaves a lasting impact on the lives of those around her.

Host or Publisher Sandy Auen Spady