Woman of the Week ~ Rachel Wrenn

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Rachel Wrenn

My Current Job/Company: Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies, Trinity Lutheran Seminary (Capital University)

My Work: I am an Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies at Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Capital University. I inspire students to love the Bible, wrestle with their faith, and see the ways that they can lead in the Church and the world.

My Passion: Teaching, writing, the Bible, and my family

My Family: Tim (amazing pastor, father, and husband), Sophie (joyful spitfire, 9), Charlie (smart, sweet, and energetic – 7)

My Hero or Heroes: Women who break ground and men who break expectations

My Escape: Walks in the forest, snuggling my kitties on the couch, the beach with my family

My Pet Peeve: Bad communication that could be avoided

My Indulgence: Chocolate and young adult novels

My Roots: Nomadic. My heart was divided among several places and communities, but I love the perspective it gave me.

My Future: I’m just getting started!

My Favorite Quote: “History would be far different if we did not tend to hear God most clearly when we think God is telling us exactly what we want to hear.” – Renita Weems

My Favorite Accessory: Scarves, fun earrings

My Advice to Young Women: You are stronger than you think you are. Trust yourself, and verify that trust with the people who love you. Find someone to pray for you, and find someone for whom you can pray, so that you don’t get stuck in the muck of your own concerns.

How I Balance it All: On my best balancing days, I journal, I stay grounded in my values, I listen to my family, I tend to what my body is telling me, and I spend time outside, no matter the weather.

Woman of the Week ~ Jordyn Kemats

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Jordyn Kemats

My Current Job/Company: Executive Vice President, Director of Sales Strategy & Marketing for S&T Bank

My Work: My work presents new challenges each day that keep me sharp, challenged, and growing. I have an opportunity to encourage, mentor, and develop a team who wants to win and that’s half the battle (can do attitude!). I am more connected to business lines than ever before in my career and able to see how all pieces and parts fit together toward a profitable company that can sustain results. I believe in the power of community banks to provide real, life-changing solutions to people across all life stages to help them pursue dreams, achieve goals, and provide a bright future for their businesses, themselves, and their loved ones.

My Passion: More People. More Awesome. More Often.

My Family: Mark (Supportive Husband), Malakai (Future Engineer- 11), Shiloh (Free Spirit that our family needs! – 8)

My Hero or Heroes: My parents. (Roger & Lorrie Taylor – married 43 years) They live only a mile from us now and have seen me thru the best and worst moments of my life.

My Escape: Maui, otherwise known as my ‘happy place’ (any time of year, as many times as possible).

My Pet Peeve: Negativity and complaining without suggestions for improvement.

My Indulgence: Cabernet Sauvignon & Godiva truffles. (Can I have 2 indulgences since they represent a critical ‘pairing’?)

My Roots: Parents who cared deeply. Surrounded by family, both immediate and extended. Excellent educational opportunities. Friendships that endure. Simple, supportive, foundational, and active.

My Future: Hope-filled

My Quote on life: “Free yourself to be yourself if only you could see yourself.” (Iris, U2)

My Favorite Accessory: Lipstick

My Advice to Young Women: Invest in relationships with people! Make time to have casual conversations with as many people as you can, ask about their families, their weekend, their purpose, their real lives. You’ll have much more rewarding work relationships, achieve greater collaboration, and enjoy celebrating success even more… because it will all be with PEOPLE you know (not just colleagues or coworkers)!

How I Do it All: Very carefully (ha ha). Planning, organizing, managing the calendar relentlessly, and cooking on Fri/Sat/Sun to avoid any meal prep during the week to take additional stress off my plate. Also I hired someone to clean my house about a year ago and it was the best investment in myself and my family I’ve made in a long time… have been able to reinvest 10-12 hours a month in family time, self-care, and relationships.

Woman of the Week ~ Carley Gueli

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Carley Gueli

My Current Job/Company: Director of Human Resources / Schoedinger Funeral & Cremation Service

My Work: All things HR, problem solving, and helping passionate people excel in what they do.

My Passion: Family, friends, and animals.

My Family: My husband Cody who is incredibly supportive of my ambitions, and our fur children Apollo (German Shepard) and Mittens (cat).

My Hero or Heroes: My parents.

My Escape: Time with my husband near clear water or in the mountains.

My Pet Peeve: Repeating myself.

My Indulgence: Shopping for new clothes and candy.

My Roots: Small-town girl

My Future: Full of fun, challenge, and new adventures

My Favorite Quote: “Become the kind of leader people would follow voluntarily, even if you had no title or position” – Brian Tracy

My Favorite Accessory: Earrings and my apple watch.

My Advice to Young Women: Find a great mentor now, and surround yourself with people that support your dreams.

How I Do it All: My outlook calendar and the support of amazing family, friends, and mentors.

Woman of the Week ~ Shelley Backs

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Shelley Backs

My Current Job/Company: Development Office, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium & The Wilds

My Work: I am honored to work for the Zoo and The Wilds. In my work, I meet wonderful people every day and get to inspire philanthropy in community members throughout our beautiful city… and beyond! I love what I do and feel energized each day by the people I work with.

My Passion: My family, especially my husband Andy and our dog Ajax; all wildlife; and my wonderful friends!

My Family: Andy (husband and favorite person) and fur-baby AJax

My Hero or Heroes: My Mom and Dad for raising three wonderful girls and pushing us all to succeed.

My Escape: Lakeside, Ohio. We have been going there as a family since I was little. It is my most favorite place to visit to unwind and recharge the batteries. It is extra special to me because my husband proposed to me there!

My Pet Peeve: Unfinished tasks

My Indulgence: A fresh manicure and a yummy meal at a local restaurant.

My Roots: Compassionate, driven, and down-to-earth.

My Future: A lifelong learner, I look to the future with promise and possibility.

My Quote on Life: “Teamwork makes the dream work!”

My Favorite Accessory: A really good book!

My Advice to Young Women: Always look for new ways to learn, whether through a mentor, a new class at the local college, or through your friends over a good cup of coffee (or wine ).

How I Do it All: I am an excellent multi-tasker and list maker. I try to complete the hardest tasks first (because they are usually the tasks I like least) and then everything else seems a little less daunting.

Woman of the Week ~ Amy Gordon

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Amy Gordon

My Current Job/Company: AVP, Marketing Systems & Projects – Corporate One Federal Credit Union

My Work: I’ve been part of the credit union industry for 35 years, 25 of those with my current employer. I’m fortunate that my company has invested in and encouraged my growth and success over the years, empowering me to utilize my talents, to continually learn and grow, and to be an effective coach to my team.

My Passion: Currently my biggest passion is my grandchildren.

My Family: We have 3 sons, 2 daughters-in-law and 6 grandkids

My Hero or Heroes: My parents. They are the source of instilling and developing the core values that have enabled the successes in my life.

My Escape: I am most at peace on a tropical beach. Sun, sand, sea, salt air, palm trees…pure tranquility.

My Pet Peeve: Dishonesty and perpetual negativity

My Indulgence: Wine, dark chocolate, comfort shows, and traveling the world.

My Roots: I was raised to live by the golden rule, respect your elders/authority, and to always use manners. Our family is humble, honest, loving, and a sense of humor is highly regarded.

My Future: My future is the boundless path on which I’ll continue to strive toward my dreams and goals.

My Quote on Life: Sometimes you have to let go of who you were in order to become who you are destined to be.

My Favorite Accessory: My mother’s ring that houses my children’s birthstones.

My Advice to Young Women: Believe in yourself, always strive to grow and learn, and seek out coaches that see your value and can help you hone in on your own potential. You will run into all sorts of people with challenging personalities or questionable work ethics, don’t let them deter you or hold you back.

How I Do it All: I am highly detail oriented by nature which enables me to be organized and efficient in all aspects of my life. I also have a great support system to provide encouragement and support when needed.

Woman of the Week ~ Lisa Houser

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Lisa Houser

My Current Job/Company: Benefits Manager, OCLC, Inc.

My Work: Health, Wellness and Retirement benefit plans. There’s nothing better to me than showing employees they’re valued by investing in their overall health, wellbeing, and financial future.

My Passion: My faith, my family, and nerding-out on benefits compliance.

My Family: My sons Harrison (6), Grant (4), and my pup Winnie (9 months).

My Hero or Heroes: My parents. (Tracey and Randy Willaman, married 42 years) They are an important part of my life.

My Escape: Netflix documentaries and “true crime” podcasts.

My Pet Peeve: Negative attitudes.

My Indulgence: Peppermint mochas and sleeping in.

My Roots: Loved, happy, active. My family (parents, little brother and little sister) made me one of the lucky ones!

My Future: Bright.

My Quote on Life: “The key to being happy is knowing you have the power to choose what to accept and what to let go.” – Dodinsky

My Favorite Accessory: My smile.

My Advice to Young Women: Don’t worry about being wrong or making mistakes. Work towards ongoing growth and not perfection.

How I Do it All: I don’t – it takes a village! I have a great support system and prioritize having an organized calendar.

Woman of the Week ~ Jennifer Cannizzaro

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Jennifer Cannizzaro

My Current Job/Company: Head of Enterprise Marketing at WHOOP

My Work: I am a leader and strategist who builds teams, accelerates growth, and delights customers with exceptional products and experiences. I believe autonomy, authenticity, and respect enable teams and individuals to thrive.

My Passion: My family, running/fitness, reading.

My Family: John (amazing husband), Juliana (daughter – 1 year old!)

My Hero or Heroes: My sister who has modeled success and paved the way for me from day 0. My best friend Chelsea who unabashedly follows her dreams and can be trusted with my greatest vulnerabilities. My book club – the most fantastic and inspirational group of women and moms.

My Escape: Traveling the world to explore new landscapes, cultures, and cuisines. The change of scenery allows me to refresh, disconnect, and appreciate a new perspective.

Pet Peeve: Dishonesty and arrogance

My Indulgence: My mom’s homemade carrot cake.

My Roots: Hardworking, colorful, and humble. Exploring new horizons. Self-reliant. Ready to rise to the occasion, whatever it may be.

My Future: Adventurous but grounded. Always growing and learning.

My Favorite Quote: “We can stop asking what the world wants from us and instead ask ourselves what we want for our world” – Glennon Doyle

My Accessory: My WHOOP!

My Advice to Young Women: Be true to yourself and keep asking questions. We’re all still trying to figure things out, and your definition of success and happiness matters most.

How I Balance it All: Ask for what you need to be happy, healthy, and successful at work and at home – asking for help is smart and resourceful, not a sign of weakness. No one knows what you need better than you do, and life is a negotiation!

Woman of the Week ~Magdalena Tyrpien

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Magdalena Tyrpien

My Current Job/Company: Vice President, Head of Business Development for Forge Biologics

My Work: I am very passionate about the industry I work in. Being able to be a part of helping individuals with rare diseases, and developing lifesaving therapies is humbling. Additionally, empowering future women to find their voice in a male dominated industry- really motivates me.

My Passion: Empowering others, and seeing people thrive.

My Family: My wife (the creative spirit that challenges me to think outside the box everyday) and our dog, Stefan(the Yorkie)

My Hero or Heroes: The numerous women, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ advocates who paved the way before us.

My Escape: Swing dancing, piano, Broadway, and our upstate Catskills house which we are currently renovating!

Pet Peeve: Ignorance.

My Indulgence: An elderflower cocktail at a 1920’s big band event.

My Roots: Positive, confident and humble

My Future: Has been written on paper, but can always change. Flexibility helps me evolve.

My Favorite Quote: “Always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what you believe in.” — Hillary Clinton

My Accessory: A good Chapstick!

My Advice to Young Women: Don’t be afraid to network, there is so much to be gained from relationships you build. The people you connect and build these lasting relationships with can empower you, and help you grow in so many ways.

How I Balance it All: I have a very organized “to-do” list notes section on my iPhone, and put everything in my calendar. Also, I sleep 8 hours and love a good iced latte.

Woman of the Week ~ Kendra Prescott

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Kendra Prescott

My Current Job/Company: Licensed Professional Counselor, Consultant, and Coach/Lead Horse Leadership Development and Primal Counsel

My Work: It is an honor to serve others in multiple capacities, meeting each person and their needs uniquely. I am passionate about utilizing the available tools and gifts we have within us, and around us, to support and enrich our personal and professional work. I believe that for those that are seeking, solutions are accessible and can create the pathways that lead us to our goals, ultimately creating the life that we want.

My Passion: Helping others. My daughter, my family, myself, and the larger, global community.

My Family: Carleigh, my strong, wise, and beautiful teenage daughter. James W. Prescott, my father, mentor, and a leader for humanity. My beloved pets and my cherished friends.

My Hero or Heroes: Anyone who survives difficulty and continues the hard work of being human.

My Escape: The ocean, the woods, the quiet when it can be found.

Pet Peeve: Lack of grace for others. I love the quote, “Be kind always, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” Rev. John Watson (pen name, Ian Maclaren)

My Indulgence: Good food and time outdoors.

My Roots: Seeking truth. Nature. Nurture. Creating more love in the world.

My Future: Meaningful.

My Favorite Quote: Well, I already shared one! But, here’s another, “It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” J. Krishnamurti

My Accessory: A horse.

My Advice to Young Women: Build a relationship with yourself, then you will know better how you want to relate to others.

How I Balance it All: With self-compassion. If I want to be there for others I have to take care of myself first, starting with gentleness.

Woman of the Week ~ Priyam Khan

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Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name: Priyam Khan

My Current Job/Company: Director of Community & Legislative Strategies, CelebrateOne, Mayor’s Office, City of Columbus

My Work: My mission is to create healthy communities by achieving equity in social and economic policies, programs, and practices impacting all residents.

My Passion: Public Service, civic engagement and creating memorable experiences with family and friends.

My Family: Faraz (my biggest fan, best friend and husband), Zela (my sweet 2 year old beagle girl)

My Hero or Heroes: My parents who have always been my guiding light, biggest role models of resilience and courage, and instilled the values of hard work and determination in me.

My Escape: Traveling with many spontaneous adventures.

Pet Peeve: Negative energy and wasting time.

My Indulgence: Pizza

My Roots: Indian American, humble, happy, and a village of supportive family and friends.

My Future: Purpose-driven, progress-obsessed (at my own pace, defined by intention and passion), and surrounded by people I love and admire.

My Favorite Quote: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou

My Accessory: Smile and diamonds.

My Advice to Young Women: Strive to love the life you live. Surround yourself with people you respect and deserve your magic. Seek many mentors. Always negotiate. Mindset impacts everything-keep it positive!

How I Balance it All: Scheduling, prioritizing, asking for advice, and spending time on the things that give me energy (workouts, healthy foods and vacations are a must!).