Grace, Grit & Sarcasm

Women over 50 are just getting started.

Leadership isn’t about having a title—it’s about being the person others can count on when things become challenging. Every day, I have the privilege of supporting customers across three distribution centers while leading a team that works behind the scenes to keep restaurants supplied and businesses running. Success isn’t measured by how many problems we avoid; it’s measured by how we respond when those problems inevitably arise.

I’ve learned that leadership begins with communication. Whether I’m helping resolve a customer issue, coordinating with transportation and warehouse teams, or supporting my employees through unexpected challenges, people deserve honesty, transparency, and timely information. Customers may not always like the answer, but they appreciate knowing someone is listening, taking ownership, and working toward a solution.

One of the most rewarding parts of my current role has been mentoring a new Customer Service Manager. Watching someone grow in confidence, develop their own leadership style, and build relationships with their team reminds me that leadership isn’t about creating followers—it’s about developing future leaders. Sharing my experiences, offering guidance, and encouraging independent decision-making has reinforced that the greatest impact a leader can have is helping someone else realize their potential.

My leadership philosophy is built on trust, collaboration, and empowerment. I believe the best ideas come from listening to the people doing the work every day. When employees feel heard, supported, and trusted, they become more engaged, provide better service, and create stronger relationships with our customers.

Customer service is often viewed as solving problems, but I believe it’s really about building relationships. Every interaction is an opportunity to earn trust—not only with our customers but also with our teams. For me, leadership means serving others, removing obstacles, communicating with purpose, and creating an environment where people feel valued and empowered to succeed.

The opportunity to lead my team and help others grow has inspired me to continue growing as a leader myself. Seeing the impact that coaching, mentoring, and empowering others can have on both individuals and organizations is the reason I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership after completing my bachelor’s degree. I want to deepen my understanding of leadership so I can better develop future leaders, build stronger teams, and create workplaces where people feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.

At the end of the day, if my team feels supported, my customers know they have someone advocating for them, and I’ve helped another leader grow, then I know I’ve made a meaningful difference. My goal has never been simply to manage people—it’s to leave every team stronger than I found it.