All About the Girls

Kat Lutze: Owner and Founder of Alley Kat's Curiosity Shoppe

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0600

All About the Girl host Jenny Craig-Brown sits down with Kat Lutze, founder and owner of Alley Kat's Curiosity Shoppe, a community-driven retail space that features local artists, curators, and small business owners! A Valparaiso native, Kat started her entrepreneurial journey in 2014 after purchasing the remaining inventory of a lampshade factory. What began as online and local resale quickly evolved into something much bigger. Jenny and Kat explore all this and so much more in this month's episode of AATG, along with a special announcement from Jenny!

Biography:

Kat Lutze is the owner and creative force behind Alley Kat’s Curiosity Shoppe, a community-driven retail space in Valparaiso, Indiana that features local artists, curators, and small business owners.

A Valparaiso native, Kat started her entrepreneurial journey in 2014 after purchasing the remaining inventory of a lampshade factory. What began as online and local resale quickly evolved into something much bigger. By reinvesting her profits through auctions and outlets, she built a thriving resale business rooted in accessibility and quality secondhand goods for her community.

In 2016, Kat launched a membership program designed not just to rent space to vendors — but to mentor, support, and grow small businesses from the inside out. Today, Alley Kat’s has grown from just 10 members to nearly 50, operating out of a building she purchased in 2018. Unlike traditional vendor malls, Kat’s model centers on the people behind the products, offering mentorship, marketing support, and a true small business community.

With a background in theater and film and a degree in Arts Administration from Augsburg College, Kat blends artistic vision with business strategy — helping creatives turn passion into sustainable success.

Deeply committed to Valparaiso, she also hosts free community events including Kids Day Scavenger Hunts, reading programs, and interactive activities designed to bring people together.

When she’s not working at the Shoppe, you can find Kat reading a good book, playing board games with friends, hiking at the dunes, or developing her newest venture, “Unplugged Events,” a startup encouraging people to disconnect from their phones and reconnect in real life.

Kat believes that small businesses thrive when people feel seen, supported, and connected — and she’s building spaces where exactly that can happen.

GreatNews.Life & Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

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GreatNewsLife looks to form positive, online communities centered around the idea that, given the option, viewers prefer to see all the good things going on in their community, as opposed to negative news. Here you’ll find exclusively positive, hyper-local stories, features, and news touting everything exceptional about the communities that make up Northwest Indiana. We invite you to partake in the Region’s only source for all-positive news, all the time. Watch it. Love it. Share it.

Sherina Gonzalez - Director of Development for A Rosie Place for Children

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0600

All About the Girls host Jenny Craig-Brown sits down with Sherina Gonzalez! Sherina is a passionate leader, problem solver, and big-picture thinker who believes in the power of purpose, connection, and courageous growth. She currently serves as the Director of Development for A Rosie Place for Children in South Bend. A Rosie Place is Indiana’s only specialty children's hospital that offers respite to families of medically fragile children by hosting magical sleepovers for them at no cost.
Known for her authenticity and heart for people, Sherina brings a unique blend of faith, resilience, and strategic vision to everything she does. Her personal journey fuels her mission to help others grow in business, relationships, and life. Above all, Sherina believes we are never too broken, too late, or too far gone to become who we were created to be.
When she’s not working or dreaming up what’s next, you’ll find Sherina traveling, taking spontaneous road trips, tackling fitness challenges, getting lost in a good book, or spoiling her 10-year-old black lab, Asia.

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Tevlyn Schwerd: Founder of Coash Clothing Co.

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0600

Welcome to another year of All About the Girls! Kicking it all off, Jenny sits down with Tevlyn Schwerd, founder of Coash Clothing Co.! From her journey through the worlds of ballet and fashion to family and the foundation of her business, Jenny and Tevyln leave no stone unturned in this season premiere of AATG.

All About the Guest:
Tevlyn Schwerd, Creative Director of Coash Clothing Co. and a Valparaiso native, discovered her passion for fashion at a young age. After graduating from Valparaiso High School, she studied Apparel Merchandising at Indiana University, with a focus on Fashion Design and Costume Construction Technology. She then built her career in New York City, gaining experience with designers including James Coviello, Anna Sui, and 3.1 Phillip Lim, working in knitwear design, production, and sourcing, and participating in New York Fashion Week while traveling internationally to explore fabric markets.

After returning home following a kidney donation to her brother, Tevlyn brought her creative expertise back to Northwest Indiana, helping develop the clothing department at the Bargain Barn before co-founding Coash Clothing Co. Today, her women’s apparel brand, rooted in creativity, resilience, and community, is available locally at Little Bear Traders and Woolens in St. John, Indiana, and online at coash-clothing-co-8235.myshopify.com/cart.

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Julie Wendorf: Director of Crown Point Community Library and President of the Indiana Library Federation

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0600

All About the Girls Host and GreatNews.Life Executive Director Jenny Craig-Brown is joined by Director of Crown Point Community Library and President of the Indiana Library Federation, Julie Wendorf! This episode gives an inside perspective on all things library, touching on everything from the struggles of increasing restrictions to the joy that comes from creating a positive impact across the community, as well as how Julie's life-long passion led her to where she is today.

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Tasha Eizinger: Host of 'Diary of a Dreamer' Podcast, Author of 'The Little Shot' Series, Public Speaker

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Podcasts collide! All About the Girls host Jenny Craig-Brown sits down with Diary of a Dreamer podcast host, author of 'The Little Shot' series, and public speaker, Tasha Eizinger! In this whirlwind episode, the two cover an array of topics, ranging from how Tasha began her journey as a writer and upcoming projects to advice on how to chase your own dreams.

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Nada Lena Nasserdeen: Founder and CEO of 'Rise Up For You' and Certified Coach

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0500

All About the Girls host, Jenny Craig-Brown sits down virtually with CEO and founder of Rise Up For You, Nada Lena Nasserdeen! In this exclusive episode, Jenny dives into the journey that led Nada to where she is today. From how she maintains a good balance between her life and her business to a few tips that anyone can do to help them reach their full-potential, this episode of AATG has it all!

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Stephanie Murphy: Executive Director of St. Joseph County Public Library

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Join All About the Girls host Jenny Craig-Brown as she sits down with the executive director of the St. Joseph County Public Library, Stephanie Murphy! No stone is left unturned in this exciting episode, covering everything from struggles and motivations to all of the amazing opportunities you can find at your local library.

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Aayliah Stewart: Founder of ASW Foundation INC and Gary Violence Prevention Coordinator

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Join host Jenny Craig-Brown as she talks with Aaliyah Stewart, founder of ASW Foundation INC and director of Violence Prevention for the City of Gary's police department and mayor's office. From what inspired her to make change in her community and how she found her path in life to the importance of family, Jenny dives into everything that has guided Aaliyah to where she is today.

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Jillian Speece: Visionary musician and award-winning filmmaker dedicated to unity and transformation

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Join host Jenny Craig-Brown as she talks with Jillian Speece is a visionary musician and award-winning filmmaker devoted to unity and transformation. As one half of indie-folk duo The Bergamot, she creates art that inspires healing and connection.

She co-directed the acclaimed documentary State of the Unity, chronicling a journey to all 50 states during the 2016 election, where thousands wrote messages of hope on their “Unity Car.” The film received national distribution, was featured in Variety, and earned 20 awards across 36 film festivals.

In 2016, Jillian founded Wild Wondrous Women, a global sisterhood focused on nature, healing, and soul-deep connection. She has led annual retreats since 2018, offering women space to reconnect and awaken their inner wild.

Featured in People, Women’s Day, and Variety, Jillian is known for her heart-driven storytelling and lasting impact.

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Kyla Webb: Performer, Vocalist, & Theatrical Storyteller

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0500

Kyla Webb is a passionate musician and performer based in Michigan City. She is the lead vocalist of Skirt, a band that fuses country, funk, and jazz to create a distinct sound. Influenced early by The Beatles, blues, and Dolly Parton, Webb began playing guitar, banjo, and mandolin while honing her vocal and songwriting skills.

A graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a theater degree, Webb has toured nationally as a silent film actor and clown under her alter ego, Sammy Tramp. Her performances blend classic vaudeville charm with modern storytelling, captivating audiences in burlesque and cabaret venues across the country.

In addition to music and theater, Webb works as a freelance bartender and designer, creating posters for local businesses. She enjoys spending time in nature and attending concerts with her wife, drawing inspiration from the creative spirit and authenticity of the Michigan City community.

Her artistic versatility and dedication to uplifting local culture make her a standout in the Northwest Indiana arts scene.

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Mary Smith: Chief Operating Officer of Fours Winds Casinos

Tue, 06 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Join host Jenny Craig-Brown as she talks with Mary Smith, Chief Operating Officer of Fours Winds Casinos. They talk about her rise in leadership roles within the business, becoming the first female executive to hold this position. Mary holds a degree from Indiana University in South Bend and brings extensive experience and deep knowledge of the organization to her role. She is honored to serve her tribe and looks forward to leading Four Winds Casinos into the future.

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Tricia Hall: Senior Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy at NorthShore Health Centers

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Join us today as host, Jenny Craig-Brown interviews Tricia Hall. Tricia is a Senior Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy in the healthcare industry. She brings expertise in strategic marketing planning, brand development, and team leadership, backed by an MS in Marketing from SNHU. With 20 years of experience in marketing and nonprofit management, she offers a well-rounded perspective on the Northwest Indiana community. As an active community member, YMCA board member, and self-employed farm business owner, Tricia is deeply committed to making a positive impact. Her passion for community work drives her to use her experience and skills to enhance the quality of life for others.

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The Lady Lifers: Special International Women’s Day Episode

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0600

For this special episode of All About the Girls, we’re celebrating International Women’s Day by bringing together the powerhouse women behind GreatNews.Life! Instead of our usual one-on-one spotlight, we’re shaking things up with a collection of inspiring mini-interviews featuring Ashley Spargo, Aubrey Thomson, Lauren Grasham, Kami Tupiak, Shelby Prouty, and Monika Krcoski—the incredible Lady Lifers who help make GreatNews.Life the go-to source for uplifting news.

From managing operations and crafting powerful stories to building relationships and keeping everything running smoothly, these six women are at the heart of spreading positivity in our communities. We’ll dive into what their passions are, how they made it to their current role, and what it means to be part of a team dedicated to good news.

Join us for this empowering, insightful, and fun conversation as we celebrate the women who make GreatNews.Life shine!

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Dr. Regina Beard: Founder of VicTory 4 Kidz & VicTory at Home

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Dr. Regina Beard is a passionate advocate for youth education and healthcare career exploration. As the founder of VicTory 4 Kidz, she provides underprivileged students with resources, scholarships, and hands-on experiences to pursue careers in nursing and healthcare. Grounded in faith and service, she leads summer camps, career days, and scholarship fundraisers, impacting thousands across Indiana and Chicagoland.

A registered nurse with a doctorate, Dr. Beard launched VicTory Training in 2014 to offer affordable nursing aide training and consulting. Inspired by caring for her father during his battle with brain cancer, she expanded VicTory 4 Kidz into a community-driven initiative. Through partnerships with colleges, sponsors, and leaders, she empowers future healthcare professionals.

Dr. Beard credits her success to her dedicated team, sponsors like Legacy Foundation and Valparaiso University, and her PR strategist, Dr. Nakita Davis. She champions collabora

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Marci Taylor: Manager at WSMK Radio, Owner of We Bossy Productions, Host of WWBU Podcast

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Marci Taylor, known on-air as Taylor Hayes on WNIL 107.5FM, brings over two decades of expertise in the radio industry. Starting as a receptionist, she navigated her way through multiple roles, gaining valuable broadcasting and voiceover experience along the way.

Today, Marci serves as the General Manager of WSMK/WNIL, where she continues to make an impact in the media world.

She’s also the dynamic host of "A Journey With Women Who Boss Up" and the visionary CEO behind We Bossy Productions. https://www.wwbossup.com/ https://open.spotify.com/show/55W8CI85fJE8hC6bisjr4t

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Dr. Janet Seabrook: CEO of Community HealthNet & City of Gary Health Commissioner

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Dr. Janet Seabrook, a Charleston native raised in Gary, Indiana, is a trailblazer in community healthcare and a passionate advocate for accessible medical services. With degrees in Biology, Medicine, and an MBA, she has led Community HealthNet since 1996, expanding its reach across Lake County, Indiana, and championing affordable healthcare for all. Recognized as a 2018 Influential Woman, Dr. Seabrook is also a dynamic speaker on health education and wellness. Beyond her professional achievements, she shares her life with her husband, Dr. Augustine Izah, and their two children.

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Mary Cooper: Real Estate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty Harbour Country, Co-Owner/Marketing at Krush Volleyball Club

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

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Deann Patena: President & CEO of the Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Deann is the President/CEO of the Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce of 5 years. Prior to her role with the Chamber Deann served in the hospitality business for over 30 years. She was the Director of Sales & Marketing with the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, Director of Sales with the Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa and the Director of Meeting and Event Sales with Fair Oaks Farms.

Her transition to the Chamber in January 2020 was smooth as she had served on the Chamber board since 2012 and was the current Chairman.

Deann located from Indianapolis to Northwest Indiana in August of 1998 and has a passion for NWI and its continued growth. She lives in Crown Point and enjoys spending time with her friends, golfing, avid sports fan, but loves the Cubs, Colts and ND Football and walking her dog Lincoln but her biggest passion is her 20-year-old daughter, Claire, a full time student with Arizona State University currently doing an internship in Ireland for her fall semester.

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Amber Pulford: Market President for Everwise Credit Union in South Bend & Elkhart

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Amber Pulford is the Market President for Everwise Credit Union in South Bend and Elkhart. She is passionate about making a positive impact in her community and currently serves on the executive board for the Potawatomi Zoo. She is also the President of South Bend Rotary and sits on the district team for Rotary 6540 as the Public Image Chair.

Amber is active in volunteer work and works with Junior Achievement to inspire the next generation. She also serves on the dinner committee for the History Museum and the event committee for the Logan Center.

Amber and her husband Michael have two children. Their daughter Emmy, and their son Max. In her downtime, She is often found in the kitchen cooking up culinary delights or having fun with her hula hoop.

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Sami Welter: Owner of Ella Jayms

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0500

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Dr. Lynette Stokes: President at South Suburban College

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Having worked in public service for nearly 30 years, Dr. Lynette Stokes has served as an advocate of youth in the child welfare system, taught elementary and community college education, and worked for equal rights organizations. On October 1, 2018, Dr. Stokes was named President of South Suburban College. She now has the distinction of being the first African-American female President in the college’s 91year rich history. In this role as CEO of the institution, Dr. Stokes has assumed responsibility for providing leadership in setting directions for curricular and organizational change designed for the betterment and improvement of the total educational program of the College. She joined the college in June 2013 as the Vice President of Academic Services and prior to that she spent nearly 12 years at the City Colleges of Chicago improving the quality of education by promoting pedagogical and andragogical techniques and strategies that support academic excellence for all students.

During her seven-year tenure with Ada S. McKinley Foster Care, Dr. Stokes prepared over 200 families to receive a foster home license, authored the training curriculum for more than 500 families and developed multi-faceted workshops to assist nearly 200 children with the transition into independent living. Dr. Stokes is well acquainted with the foster care system. She lived in seven different foster homes as a child and is an example of one who through resiliency and an intact ability to succeed, has overcome many obstacles.

Wanting to fulfill her desire to make a positive impact on the education of adult learners, Dr. Stokes returned to school and in 2004 earned her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Organizational Change at Roosevelt University. This academic credentialing, coupled with the skills she gained while working at the then Operation PUSH, Community Mental Health Council and Ada S. McKinley Community Services, provided the foundation to propel her career into higher education as Dean of Adult Education and Dean of Instruction at City Colleges of Chicago. In the latter role, Dr. Stokes provided instructional leadership and guidance for more than150 full- and part-time faculty, two associate deans, 32 academic tutors and 15 administrative and support staff.

In addition to serving as a presenter for several professional development events in Higher Education and Child Welfare, Dr. Stokes is the 2005 recipient of Roosevelt University’s Most Outstanding Dissertation of the Year; the 2009 recipient of the Kathy Osterman Award for Outstanding Supervisor given to public service employees in the City of Chicago; 2014 recipient of the Chicago Defender’s Women of Excellence Award; in 2018 she was honored with the Egretha Education Award for Excellence in Education and the Illinois Committee on Black Concerns in Higher Education (ICBCHE) Trailblazer Award; in 2020 Dr. Stokes was awarded the MLK Excellence i

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Stephanie Dorsey: Owner & CEO of Willow Blooms, Senior Director of Finance for Towne Park

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Stephanie Dorsey is the CEO and owner of Willow Blooms in Highland, Indiana. She is an experienced professional in sports, food, beverage and hospitality industries, previously working for organizations such as the Cleveland Indians baseball team. She acquired her Masters degree in Business Administration from Cleveland State University.

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Alyssa Gawlinski: President of the Board of Directors for Fighting Pretty, Area Manager at Finishing Chicago, Committee Chair for NWIIWA, Board Member & Coach for Girls on the Run

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Alyssa Gawlinski is a dynamic and results-oriented business development, events, sales, and marketing leader with a deep-rooted connection to her hometown of Northwest Indiana (NWI). With a keen eye for finding innovative solutions to drive brand awareness and achieve business objectives, Alyssa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every project she undertakes.

Born and raised in NWI, Alyssa's journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to collaborate effectively with clients, vendors, and teams to deliver outstanding results. Recognized as a trusted advisor by leadership, Alyssa is often called upon for her empathetic approach to strategy sessions and her skillful project management.

Alyssa takes pride in her ability to infuse levity into challenging situations, brightening people's days while maintaining a sharp focus on meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. Her CliftonStrengths™—Achiever, Maximizer, Relator, Input, and Intellection—underscore her dedication to continuous improvement and relationship-building.

Throughout her career, Alyssa has demonstrated her prowess in marketing, event planning, business development, and leadership roles. Her experience spans over tenure in the commercial real estate industry. In her current role at Finishing Chicago, she facilitates connections between clients and skilled professionals in painting, decorating, and drywall finishing.

During her time at REjournals, Alyssa's influence and responsibilities grew exponentially, culminating in her promotion to Managing Director of National Events & Marketing. In this role, she spearheaded the creation and implementation of hundreds of annual events and marketing campaigns, fostering client relationships and driving revenue growth.

Alyssa's track record of success is underscored by her ability to manage diverse tasks in fast-paced environments while maintaining a focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Her proficiency in areas such as project management, budget management, and community outreach has earned her accolades and recognition throughout her career.

In addition to her professional achievements, Alyssa is deeply committed to giving back to her community. As the President of the Board of Directors for Fighting Pretty, she supports women battling cancer, while her involvement with organizations like the Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association and Girls on the Run reflects her dedication to professional development and youth empowerment.

Alyssa holds a Bachelor of General Studies from Indiana University and a Women in Leadership Certificate from the University of Notre Dame.

When Alyssa isn't busy building connections or tackling projects, you'll often find her enjoying quality time with her loved ones, diving into the latest addition to her book collection, checking off adventures from her bucket list, spoiling her dog Charlie, plan

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Michaline Tomich: CEO, Executive Creative Director of MixDesign, Host and Creative Lead for The Design Barn

Tue, 07 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Michaline (also known as Micki) is the Founder and President of mixdesign, a Branding and Experience Design company located between Chicago and Indianapolis in Hebron, Indiana. She enjoys leading a talented creative brand experience team and assisting clients with brand development, story growth and project master planning.

The mixdesign team serves many great clients in the edutainment, municipalities, non profit and their favorite... Agriculture Industries. Our most recent list of Agriculture Industry partnerships include the likes of Undeniably Dairy, Dairy Management Inc, The Creamery of Beaver Utah, Texas Farm Bureau, Dairy Max, Inc , Indiana State Fair and Fair Oaks Farms among others.

21 years of leading a multi-talented design-build team has molded her into a skilled creative session and brand audit leader. Michaline continues to seek friendly, mutually respectful relationships with Agriculture and Edutainment Folks, open minded Project Developers and, of course, talented creatives.

Additionally, mixdesign is housed in The Design Barn an experience and event venue also in Hebron, Indiana. Their team hosts a multitude of local private events but more importantly have setup an experience space ideal for corporate retreats and Agriculture Story brainstorming session. She is currently working on a kids book “There’s a farm in your fridge” and is excited to help tell the story of Agriculture.

She looks forward to helping you “yes, and…” your story to life!

When she is not at work you can find Micki at home on her hobby farm with husband Jared and their two boys.

The Tomichs raise Scottish Highland beef cattle and an uncountable number of other animals

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Michelle Andres and Felicia Kuschel: Group7even and Parity Apparel

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Michelle Andres is the founder and CEO of the award-winning marketing agency, 'Group7even'.

Felicia Kuschel is the VP of Client Services at Group7even. She is also the co-founder of Parity Apparel

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Deanna Grimes: Inside Sales Rep, Marathon Runner, Coach, Beer Aficionado, Mother, Daughter

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Deanna Grimes is a full time working mom and runner from Northwest Indiana by way of Cincinnati, Ohio. She’s an inside sales rep, youth running coach, timing assistant for locally based Tempo Run Timing and avid runner. After college her long time partner Jason and herself landed in Northwest Indiana. A couple years later she found herself immersed in the local running community. She has completed 37 full marathons in 31 states. She has an ultimate goal of all 50 states. She currently coaches local youth through the Calumet Region Striders running club and can be found on Northwest Indiana trails training for her next race, cheering on her favorite sports teams or at her favorite craft breweries in the region.

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life

Aida Haigh: Manager of Strategy and Risk at NiSource, Chemical Engineer, Mother and Daughter

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Aida Haigh is currently serving as the manager, strategy and risk at NiSource (Nipsco) with previous employments at US Steel and Arcelor-Mittal as a Process Engineer. She attended IU Northwest and the University of Illinois where she received a Bachelor's of Science in Chemical Engineering and was a lecturer at Purdue University Northwest, and is currently on the board of directors for NWIIWA (Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association).
https://nwiiwa.org/

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life

Jenny Craig-Brown (WHAT!?) The flip the script interview! Host & Founder of the All About the Girls event & podcast, Executive Director of GreatNews.Life, aunt, wife, and lover of the outdoors

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Jenny Craig-Brown leads the Lifers as the Executive Director at GreatNews.Life. As the Founder and Host of the popular podcast and event, "All About the Girls," Jenny is committed to building a community that celebrates and uplifts women.

A proud native of Northwest Indiana, Jenny's roots are embedded in the region where she was born and raised. Her passion for the outdoors is evident in her love for hiking, Spartan racing and kayaking. Beyond her professional pursuits, Jenny enjoys moments spent with her nieces and nephew, time with her husband of 10+ years and traveling with friends.

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Janelle Golly: Clinic Director at Valparaiso Ivy Rehab, Doctor, Physical Therapist, Valpo Native, Community Member, and Wife

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0600

Janelle Golly is the clinical director at Valparaiso Ivy Rehab. She attended Indiana University Northwest to receive her bachelor’s degree in biology before going on to earn her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Northwestern University Feinberg
School of Medicine in 2019.

After graduating, she began working in the outpatient orthopedic setting where she treats a variety of diagnoses with the use of manual techniques, therapeutic exercise, and evidenced-based practices to help patients achieve their rehabilitation goals.

Having dealt with her own sports-related injuries, she understands the importance of utilizing task-specific interventions and patient education to develop an effective plan of care for each individual’s rehab journey.

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Denise Koebcke: President & CEO of The Caring Place, licensed educator, author, consultant, and international presenter.

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 02:00:00 -0600

Denise is the President and CEO of The Caring Place, a licensed educator, author, consultant, and international presenter. She has provided ongoing training and strategic planning in school districts and non-profits from Indiana to New Brunswick, Canada. Twice inducted into the Northwest Indiana Society of Innovators, Denise has been honored with several community impact awards and has presented at many national conferences. Denise is also a contributing author to the 2012 Handbook of Pro-Social Education.

Denise has a BA in Education from Purdue University, an MS in Media and Technology from Indiana State, and trained in educational leadership with Dr. Richard Manatt from Iowa State.

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Anne Herbert, Britney Bynum, and Cheryl D. - Breast Cancer Survivor Storytelling

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0500

This episode features Anne Herbert, Britney Bynum, and Cheryl D.

Cheryl D. -
Cheryl D. is a beauty enthusiast, speaker, transformation coach, author, and philanthropist. She founded Cindy’s Girl Foundation. This foundation serves as a young and energetic global platform founded with the ambition for the empowerment of women and children where life experiences, training, leadership skills, and various resources are shared to help make positive choices and lead them back on their feet.

Britney Bynum -
Britney Bynum, BSN, RN, is a passionate and dedicated nurse with over 16 years of healthcare experience. Britney earned her degree in nursing from Indiana University Northwest in 2014. She has various medical expertise, including acute care, long-term care, medical-surgical, and rehabilitation. Britney has held prominent positions in healthcare as a charge nurse, unit manager, nurse educator, MDS coordinator, and Director of Nursing. Britney is enrolled in college to obtain her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) master’s degree.

Anne Herbert:
A message from Anne:
On April 25, 2017 I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer that had spread to my lymph nodes, lungs, bones and liver. A double mastectomy on August 29, 2017 led to me being in remission almost 6 years.

Prior to being diagnosed with breast cancer I was a 15 years volunteer for the American Red Cross, 10 years volunteer for the SS Monica and Luke Catholic Church soup kitchen, and other organizations. Until recently I was a 7 year Trustee for the Hammond Public Library and Board Member for Hammond Academy of Science and Technology (HAST) charter school.

My words of encouragement are, get your mammograms, keep a positive attitude and breast cancer is not necessarily a death sentence.

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Dr. Sha-Ron Jackson-Johnson and Dr. Anastasia K Siatras: Women's Health Episode

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0500

This episode features Dr. Sha-Ron Jackson-Johnson, MD and general surgery specialist at Indiana Surgical Associates, as well as Dr. Anastasia K Siatras, DO and a specialist in diagnostic radiology at Methodist Hospitals.

Dr. Jackson-Johnson is a native of rural Helena, Arkansas and a proud alumnus of Xavier University of New Orleans, Louisiana. She graduated with honors from Meharry Medical College and was selected for membership in Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her General Surgery residency at the University of Cincinnati and served as Chief Resident from 2013-2014. During her surgical training, Dr. Jackson-Johnson worked as a research fellow at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles where she studied physiologic mechanisms of lung injury and repair in transgenic mouse models. She has presented her basic science and clinical research at national meetings and has authored several abstracts and manuscripts. Following completion of surgical residency, Dr. Jackson-Johnson joined the surgical faculty of the University of Cincinnati where she worked closely with the City of Cincinnati Health Department to provide surgical services to medically underserved patient populations. Dr. Jackson-Johnson is a member of the American College of Surgeons and the Society of Black Academic Surgeons. In the fall of 2016, she enthusiastically joined Indiana Surgical Associates. Dr. Jackson-Johnson offers expertise in broad based General Surgery, including advanced laparoscopic procedures. She maintains robust interest in the elimination of health care disparities, recruitment and retention of women and minorities in surgical specialties and the provision of excellent medical student education.

Dr. Siatras is an alumnus from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University. Early on in her career, Dr. Siatrist knew that radiology was a fit for her. Eveyrday, Dr. Siatras embraces every patient interaction that makes her work meaningful. She strives to instill hope in all of her patients. When she isn't working, she values the time that she gets to spend with her family. Siatras believes in putting the best of herself into the world through the things she is passionate about, and encourages others to do the same.

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Dr. Amy McCormack: President at Calumet College of Saint Joseph, lifelong teacher and learner

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0500

This episode features Dr. Amy McCormack, the current President at Calumet College of St. Joseph. A Frankfort, Indiana native, Dr. McCormack received her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Accounting from Indiana University, her MBA in Finance and Marketing Concentrations from Dominican University, and her Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Higher Education/Higher Education Administration from University of Pennsylvania. After spending 26 years as the Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration at Dominican University, she was inaugurated as the first female President and 7th President of Calumet College of St. Joseph in 2017.

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Dr. Marvi Bikak: board-certified pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine specialist

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

This episode features Dr. Marvi Bikak, a physician with Northwest Health who specializes in pulmonology, critical care and sleep medicine. She completed her medical training at Indiana University in Indianapolis and Rush University in Chicago. She came to Northwest Indiana just a few months ago and has already developed a busy practice and great reputation. Her office, Northwest Medical Group - Pulmonary and Critical Care, is located in La Porte.

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Sherri Ziller: President and CEO at Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, lifelong teacher and mother

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0500

This episode features Sherri Ziller, President and CEO at Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority. Sherri, a lifelong resident of Northwest Indiana, was named President and Chief Executive Officer of the RDA in 2021. Previously she was the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, responsible for day-to-day operations, strategic planning and fiscal management. Ziller has been with the RDA since its inception in the spring of 2006 and provides leadership to their efforts to maximize the economic development and redevelopment potential throughout the region, increase job creation and develop greater connectivity to Chicago to promote new economic growth statewide. She holds a Master’s degree in Education and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from Purdue University Calumet. Sherri is actively involved in the community, featuring as a speaker and author for various organizations and events around the region.

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Jessica Hubbard: Director of Marketing at Indiana ER & Hospital, avid runner that will try anything at least once

Sun, 07 May 2023 05:00:00 -0500

This episode features Jessica Hubbard, Director of Marketing at Indiana ER & Hospital in Hammond, Indiana. Jessica was born and raised in Crown Point, Indiana where she resides with her 15 year old daughter. She graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Communications Marketing.

Jessica is a sucker for sunrises/sunsets at any beach she can gain access to, and loves to travel and attend concerts. You'll often find her at Wrigley Field in the summer to take in some Cubs baseball. Jessica is an avid runner that completed her first half marathon in April. Her weaknesses are Lululemon and Starbucks, and she has absolutely no shame in that. Jessica will try anything at least feel once, and enjoys making people feel welcome. She is the type of person who will do anything to brighten up somebody's day.

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Erica Hemphill: Owner of 10-56 Brewing & Love You Baby Photography, former EMT and cancer survivor

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Erica (DeRuntz) Hemphill is a successful entrepreneur, photographer, and brewer. She was born and raised in Knox, Indiana, by her hardworking parents, Bob and Donna DeRuntz, Erica enjoyed a fun-filled childhood with her twin brother, Bob, and older sister, Desiree.

Erica graduated from Ball State University with a degree in Social Work. She started working as a photographer in the fire service, documenting structure fires and vehicle accidents. Later, Erica decided to become more involved and joined the EMT school and the fire academy, serving her community on the ambulance and fire engine.

Despite her love for photography, Erica decided to take on a new challenge and pursue her passion for brewing. Together with her husband, Mike, they started homebrewing in 2013, which led to the establishment of 10-56 Brewing. Erica also officially launched Love You Baby Photography, to provide daily newborn photo sessions to new families.

In 2017, after Mike's retirement from the Indiana State Police, they purchased their current location, a former lumberyard, on highway 35 in Knox. They opened their 10-56 Brewing taproom to the public in July 2018, offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and a variety of beers on tap.

In 2022, Erica faced a new challenge when diagnosed with breast cancer. She documented her journey on Facebook on a page named The EEP, Erica's Excellent Progress Page. Despite her health struggles, Erica continued to manage the brewery's administrative, staffing, and legal needs while Mike carried the ball. Erica is now cancer-free and back to doing what she loves, making memories for families in hospitals and running the brewery.

When Erica is not working, she enjoys spending time on the back of her motorcycle with Mike, cooking at home, and cuddling with their dogs while watching a movie.

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Leann Sego: Owner of Creme de la Crop, passionate farmer, beauty line creator, former interior designer and ongoing community support guru

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 02:00:00 -0600

This episode features Leann Sego

In 2002 Creme de la Crop was founded by Interior Designer Leann Sego on her family’s seventy-acre farm. The operation started by growing organic produce known for its beauty and flavor. That passion for farming continues through the Community Supported Agriculture Program.

Nineteen years into the operation, Leann decided it was time to offer more and developed product lines that she was thrilled to put her designer stamp on. Her extensive product line is all made in-house, with the finest ingredients available. The Creme de la Crop line consists of Skincare, Haircare, Handcrafted Candles, and Artisan Soap. She proudly shares with you that which they love.

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Dana Frank: Marketing Director at HRM Group (better known as Tomato Bar Pizza, Ricochet Tacos, and Blockhead Beerworks), lover of podcasts and punk shows

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0600

This episode features Dana Frank Marketing Director at HRM Group and lover of podcasts and punk shows.

After working in the corporate nonprofit world for 13 years, Dana Frank joined Heritage Restaurant Management Group in 2021 as the group’s Marketing Director. HRM Group is better known individually as Tomato Bar Pizza, Ricochet Tacos, and Blockhead Beerworks. If you’re unfamiliar with these neighborhood favorites, visit linktr.ee/beerpizzatacos!

Dana originally hales from Evergreen Park, IL where she grew up in the house her grandfather was born in, and also attended school from pre-k to college. Dana graduated from Saint Xavier University in 2015 (yes, they have a Chicago address; no, you will not convince her it’s in Chicago. Check a map!) with a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design. While attending school, Dana continued to work several jobs leaving her with over 8 years of experience in both the hospitality and marketing fields, making her a great fit for HRM!

Dana currently lives in the Miller Beach neighborhood of Gary, IN with her husband, stepson, Great Pyrenees, and 3 cats. She enjoys listening to podcasts, going to punk shows in Chicago, eating great food with great people, and going to the beach during the summer.

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Katie Ridinger: Youth Enrichment Director at Valpo Parks, Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, & future pickleball expert

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0600

This episode features Katie Ridinger. Katie, Youth Enrichment Director at Valpo Parks, has been involved in youth development work for over 20 years. Her proudest accomplishment was her service as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine from 2013-2016. Katie has an undergraduate degree in broadcasting and a master’s degree in Intercultural Youth and Family Development. She enjoys playing pickleball, line dancing and putting together jigsaw puzzles.

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Liz Boyna: Corporate Communications Manager, mom, volunteer & community advocate

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0600

This episode features Liz Boyna who comes to us from Chicago, IL, where she lives with her husband and daughter, Maeve. After spending time in both hospitality and higher education, Liz made the transition to work for her family’s business, and is now the Corporate Communications Manager at the American Licorice Company. She enjoys working with her team to make things better for people at the company and in the community, and hopes this will inspire her young daughter should she choose to become a part of generation six at American Licorice.

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Lisa Franko: Director of Development at Housing Opportunities, Mother, and Proud Community member

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0600

This episode features Lisa Franko, Director of Development for Housing Opportunities, Inc. She has been part of the team for over 6 years. Starting out in the Development Department in 2015, she was promoted to the Director of Development in 2019. Lisa is a lifelong Northwest Indiana resident and grew up in Southern La Porte County farming with her family and her father instilled into her at a very young age; “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” (Wintson Churchill)

She recently completed course work and obtained her CFRM through the IUPUI Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She is a proud mom of three children and two stepchildren. Her oldest son resides in Nashville TN and works in the entertainment industry, her stepson resides in Valparaiso, her stepdaughter is studying Construction Management at Purdue University, her oldest daughter is working in medical billing at a local firm, and the youngest is the glue that holds the family together. Lisa resides in Valparaiso with her amazing husband Bob along with their sweet dog Ellie and Boo Kitty the cat.

Housing Opportunities: https://hoi.help/

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Diana Anderson: Comcast’s Vice President of Customer Experience for the Greater Chicago Region, Wife of a Navy Veteran, friend and mentor to many

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0500

This episode features Diana Anderson who serves as the Vice President of Customer Experience for Comcast’s Greater Chicago Region, which includes Northwest Indiana, Central and Northern Illinois and Southwest Michigan. Her primary goal in her role is to ensure that customers have the best possible experience with Comcast products and services, and when interacting with company employees.

Prior to her current role, Anderson served as Regional Director of Comcast University, an internal group within the company that oversees a vast array of employee education and training. Prior to joining Comcast, Anderson served in roles at Walgreens and at the Naval Service Training Command in Great Lakes, IL.

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Dr. Stella Kyung: Cardiologist, Mother, and Healthy Life Advocate

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0500

This episode features Dr. Stella Kyung, a cardiologist from Northwest Health. We dive into the topic of cardiology and how to keep your body healthy. She also gave information about her history, her family, and how she really handles it all.

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

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Itxel Carlos: Thomas Kia Sales Team Member, Mother, First-Generation Latina

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0500

This episode features Itxel Carlos: Mother, First-Generation Latina, and Thomas Kia Sales Team Member discussing how to keep it real, how to be yourself, and how to make it in the tough world of auto sales especially as a feamle.

Thomas Kia
Thomas Kia Facebook

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Sarah Metzger: Vegan foodie, educator, podcaster and lifestyle influencer

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 05:00:00 -0500

This episode features Sarah Metzger, podcast host of the What's on your Plate podcast, owner of Lelulo's vegan eats and treats, and educator within the vegan community.

Lelulo's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lelulosvegan
Whats on your Plate Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bvKXaLsUg62r6GmAedcma
Lelulo's Website: https://lelulosvegan.com/

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Natalie Mahlmann: Valparaiso Police Dept. administrative team member, GreatNews.Life Financial Director, Mom, & our community's friend

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0500

This episode features Natalie Mahlmann who serves our community in many ways. She is the Administrative Assistant for the Valparaiso Police, Financial Director at GreatNews.Life, and is a founding member of the GreatNews.Life team with her husband & Founder, Chris Mahlmann. Natalie is known to be one of the kindest community members we have here in the region. Get to know her here!

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

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Jamie Cruz: 2022 Boys & Girls Clubs Indiana Youth of the Year, dance team creator, and student

Sun, 01 May 2022 09:00:00 -0500

This Episode of All About the Girls features Jamie Cruz, 2022 Boys & Girls Clubs Indiana Youth of the Year. Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana member since 6, Jamie has been strongly impacted by and impactful in her Lake Station Club location. Jamie, 17, participated in the Junior Staff workplace learning program and created the Code Blue Dance Team for girls at the Lake Station Club. A junior at River Forest High School, Jamie hopes to work in law and is working hard to ensure a strong future for herself.

Learn more about Jamie, the hard work she has already put in and all she hopes to accomplish in this fun episode!

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

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Ellen Kapitan: South Shore Roller Derby skater & president, friend and strong community member

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Ellen Kapitan serves as President of the South Shore Roller Derby and is skater "El Kapitan" she is a skilled derby skater with many ties to the community including CASA, Shirley Heinze Land Trust, and work with the solid waste district for Porter County. She shares on all things roller derby, how anyone can get involved, and all about her background and how she got to where she is today. Learn more: southshorerollerderby.org

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

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Sgt. Kelly Mickey: Female Police officer, Region Rat, and a proud part of the LGBTQ+ community

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Kelly Mickey is the Sgt. of Community Affairs for the City of Hammond Police Department and has over 23 years of experience on Hammond PD. In this exciting interview Kelly talks about being a female police officer, a Region Rat, a part of the LGBTQ+ community, and how YOU can become a police officer!

The Hammond Police Department is hiring now until March 11th. For more information on joining the Hammond PD:

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Dr. Vanessa Allen McCloud: Loving mother of six, President & CEO Urban League of NWI, & community leader

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0600

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Amy Blaker: Passionate Volunteer, VP of Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels of NWI, & Client Service Manager

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0600

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

This Episode features Amy Blaker Born and raised in Lake County Indiana, Amy Blaker is a proud life-long resident of the Region. As far back as she can remember, Amy has always had a strong interest in politics and government. She has a background in campaign work from the local to the federal level and previously worked for the Indiana State Democratic Party and Congressman Pete Visclosky. She is dedicated to serving the community through her volunteer work with the Munster Junior Woman's Clubs, Vice President of the Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels of NWI, as well as serving on other various boards. She is currently employed as a Client Service Manager with Lochmueller Group, which allows her to continue her strong commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in NWI.

Amy resides in Winfield with her most beloved rescue companions and over 270 pairs of absolutely fabulous shoes.

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Janice Rodriguez: Chicago-based entrepreneur, Writer, Comedian

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0600

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

This episode features Janice Rodriguez. Janice V. Rodriguez, (first name rhymes with Denise), is a Chicago-based entrepreneur, writer, and comedian. In the ‘before times’ as a founder of a boutique national brand ambassador staffing agency, she led the growth of a successful small business for 15 consecutive years. In late 2016, Janice, a self-proclaimed workaholic, decided to strike a better work/life balance by allowing herself the time to do the one thing she always wanted to try - standup comedy. Five years later, Janice regularly performs at Chicagoland area showcases and comedy clubs and during the pandemic, for national audiences online.

She has performed at comedy clubs Zanies, Improv, The Drop (South Bend), Laugh Factory, Comedy Shrine and Jackie Knights (St. Augustine, FL). Janice has also graced the stages of several well-known comedy festivals such as Chicago Women's Funny Festival, SheDot (Toronto), Lady Laughs (Madison) and LaughFest (Grand Rapids). Janice is also a founder and producer of Las Locas Comedy, a comedy showcase that features Latina/Latinx comedic talent and other favorite ‘locas’ of any background. Las Locas Comedy, selected as a Chicago Reader ‘Recommended Event’, is now currently producing a new show at the world famous Laugh Factory in Chicago called Chingona Comedy Hour. In addition to standup comedy, Janice is also the host and producer of two podcasts, Defending Indiana and Las Locas Life. Janice always aims to bring a fresh perspective to topics related to her culture, Indiana upbringing and her professional and personal lives.

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Colleen Brennan: Stand-up Comedian, Second City Graduate, Indiana Born and Raised

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0600

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

This episode features Colleen Brennan. Colleen Brennan is a Chicago based stand-up comedian, actor, writer (Wisecrackin’), producer (Momedians of Momedy and Back Room Comedy @ aliveOne), podcast host (Defending Indiana) and mother. A graduate of the Conservatory Program at The Second City, Colleen also received training in stand-up comedy at The Second City and Feminine Comique. Described as a polished performer, Colleen’s unique, observational angle as a married, visibly stable mother highlights the hilarious details about life as a human.

Colleen has performed in festivals, theaters, clubs and shows all over the Midwest such as: Snubfest 2016 (*Winner – Audience Favorite), Lady Laughs Festival (Madison, WI), The Laugh Factory, Zanies Rosemont Tuesday Ten, The Lincoln Lodge, The Foundation Room at the House of Blues, The Comedy Shrine, Tomfoolery Fun Club, The Kates, The Little Theater at Saint Mary’s College, The Acorn Theater and The Annoyance Theater. She has been a guest on WGN’s “Pretty Late with Patti Vasquez” and WCIU’s “The Jam”. Colleen also appears regularly in her car driving her children all around Chicago.

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Courtney Smith: Attorney, Practice Owner, Outgoing, Woman Empowerment

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0500

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

This episode features Courtney Smith from Smith Legal Group. Courtney was born and raised in Valparaiso, Indiana. Courtney sits on the Shared Ethics Advisory Commission as Vice President and is the representative for Porter County. She also sits on the Advisory Board for Thorgren Tool & Molding, Co. Inc. in Valparaiso. She is a graduate of Purdue University with a liberal arts degree, and furthered her education at Valparaiso University with a degree in education, German, and a minor in English. Courtney taught high school German and English in Lake County, Indiana, for seven years before beginning her law school education at Valparaiso University Law School.

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Maya Kommineni: Cardiologist, Health Enthusiast, and more!

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the All About The Girls The Podcast our host Jenny Craig-Brown got a chance to sit down with Maya Kommineni and learn all about her background, family, and more!

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Bonus Episode 3: Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Join Jenny Craig-Brown as she gets the chance to sit down with Indiana Secretary of State Holli Sullivan on this hybrid episode of Leadership Life and All About The Girls. We get to learn all about Holli's background, careers, and many more!

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Ivy Ford: Roller skating, Guitar Slinging, Blues Kitten

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Ivy Ford is entertaining and leaves her mark wherever she goes. Through musicianship and finesse she commands a magical energy like no other. She plays several instruments but didn't pick up the guitar until turning 20 and took to it like fish to water. Kickstarting her career, opening for Buddy Guy, she continues to raise the bar for the blues industry. With new opportunities on the rise, Ivy Ford doesn't mind if a patron may not be privy to her at first, because she guarantees they'll never forget her.

She's a red lipstick wearing and guitar slinging 'Youngblood of the Blues and more'

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Ashley Dickinson: Healthcare dedication Northwest Health CEO, and new mother

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0500

Ashley Dickinson is Chief Executive Officer for Northwest Health which includes the three hospitals located in Valparaiso, La Porte and Knox as well Northwest Medical Group, Northwest Health Occupational Medicine, Northwest Health Urgent Cares, Northwest Health Emergency Medical Services and several other entities.

Prior to serving as CEO for the entire Northwest Health system, Ashley was the CEO for Northwest Health - La Porte and Northwest Health – Starke hospitals and before that was the Chief Operating Officer at Northwest Health – Porter.

Ashley holds master’s degrees in Health Administration and Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Oklahoma State University. She is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Since joining Northwest Health in 2014, Ashley has overseen the planning, construction and opening of the new Northwest Health – La Porte hospital that opened in 2020, recruited more than 70 new providers to the region, expanded the Northwest Health – Valparaiso campus, and earned several national designations for the hospitals most recently, accredited Chest Pain Center, Primary Stroke Center and accredited Cardiac EP services at Northwest Health – La Porte.

During her early career Ashley was an executive at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville, Missouri. Throughout her career she has supported work to enhance quality, safety and service for patients.

Ashley lives in La Porte County with her husband Patrick and their son.

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Chelsea Whittington: Gary Native, PR Consulting, Avid Volunteer, Who You Whitt

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0500

Chelsea (Stalling) Whittington is a native of Gary, IN and proud graduate of West Side High School (salutatorian), Howard University (B.A. Broadcast Journalism, Magna Cum Laude) and Purdue University (M.A. Organizational Communications, Summa Cum Laude).

Her career in Public Relations and Communications spans more than 25 years having worked for the Peace Corps Recruiting Office in Arlington, VA, the Office of Congressman Charles Rangel (D-NY), JWA Boys and Girls Club, Lake Area United Way, Horseshoe and Trump Casinos, the Gary Community School Corporation, and Johnson Publishing Company, publisher of Ebony and Jet Magazines.

In 2009, Chelsea joined the executive team at U.S. Cellular Corporation as Communications Manager. There, she managed 4 of the company’s public relations firms while promoting the brand of the nation’s sixth largest wireless phone company.

From January 2012 – July 2015, Chelsea served in the administration of Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson, the City of Gary’s first female mayor and the State of Indiana’s only female African-American mayor. As Director of Communications, Chelsea oversaw media relations, crisis communications, special events, branding and marketing for her hometown.

In the fall of 2015 to spring 2019, Chelsea was employed by the Chicago Urban League where she served as Director of External Affairs and Special Events. She continues to serve as an adjunct professor at Indiana University Northwest and Indiana Wesleyan University teaching courses in Communications, Social Networking and Special Event Planning.

Since 2015, Chelsea has operated her own PR Consulting firm, C WHITT, where she develops public relations and social media strategies for clients as well as presents workshops and trainings on social media and public speaking. In spring 2019, she made the big leap into full-time entrepreneurship while expanding her clientele to service small businesses, non-profit organizations and governmental agencies.

A long-time member of the Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, Chelsea sings in the choir, is a member of the G.E.E.K Squad and serves as a church hostess. She volunteers for the J.W.A. Boys and Girls Club, Sojourner Truth House, is a member of the Black Public Relations Society of Chicago, the iHeart Media Local Advisory Board and NBC 5 Chicago’s Community Outreach Board.

Whittington resides in Gary with her husband Terrell and their lovable dog Deuce.

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Elizabeth Adcock: Mother, Senior Specialist at CAPTRUST, Pianist, Passionate about Duneland YMCA

Sun, 02 May 2021 05:00:00 -0500

Elizabeth Adcock, Senior Specialist at CAPTRUST beginning in the summer of 2020 when Lakeside Wealth Management joined. At Lakeside, Elizabeth was the Director of Strategic Development, has over 15 years of experience in the finance industry. She began her career at Lakeside Wealth Management in 2010 in operations and client services. Prior to joining the Lakeside team, Elizabeth spent three years as a leading Sales Specialist for Unicous Marketing. Elizabeth has twin kindergarten daughters Madeline and Emelia and her husband Aaron has 4 children, 14 year old twin girls, and 15 and 18 year old boys.

Personal Accolades

• Duneland Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award - 2019

• Named to the NWI Times 20 Under 40 Class for 2019

• Executive Board Vice President for the Duneland Family YMCA

• Co-Chair for the Chairman’s Round Table – Duneland Family YMCA since 2016

• Rebuilding Together Duneland Volunteer

• United Way Day of Caring Volunteer

• Former Committee chair for Duneland YMCA’s Dancing Like the Stars

• Former Secretary of the Board of Executive Directors for the Duneland YMCA

• Paul Harris Rotarian Award Winner - 2014

• Valparaiso Leadership Graduate - 2010

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Bonus Episode 2: Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Meet the Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year of Greater Northwest Indiana through this special interview with Jenny Craig-Brown! Get a glimpse at each girl's life outside of the club, what it means to be a leader, their future plans, and the people in their lives that inspire them. Make sure to catch their unfiltered responses to the rapid fire questions at the end of the show!

Madelyn is the Valparaiso Youth of the Year! She has a passion for music and plays both the piano and cello. "Music is on of the most important things to me and I truly believe that it is the greatest way to form connections with each other and create a deep understanding of oneself."

Bailey is the Duneland Club representative for the 2021 Youth of the Year! She is an avid runner who gives back to her community and participates in many service projects through her Club

Andriana is the East Chicago Club representative for the 2021 Youth of the Year! She has been accepted to Tennessee State and dreams of opening a shelter for people in abusive relationships.

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Lt. Gov Suzanne Crouch: Honorable Public Servant, Hoosier, & Loving Mother

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0600

Get an inside look into Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch's life, goals, and passions via her interview with Jenny Craig-Brown. The lifestyle of the Lieutenant Governor is impressively fast-paced and highly impactful. Everyday Crouch cherishes each moment and urges those around her to do so as well since, "Life is like a book, some chapters we get to write and some are written for us."

Born and raised in Indiana, Crouch has dedicated her life to making a difference. "We are here for such a short period of time, that if we can't make a difference and if we can't impact people's lives and improve them, then why are we here?" is something that Crouch lives by every single day.

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Bonus Episode: Lady Lifers Carry the Torch of Positivity Forward

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0600

Get to know Kayti Grable and Stephanie Swearington in this month's bonus episode to kick off Women's History Month. Host Jenny Craig-Brown, will be leading GreatNews.Life alongside managers Stephanie Swearington, who will serve as the Director of Operations and Human Resources, and Kayti Grable, who will serve as the Editorial Director.

The three form a female management team; a collective powerhouse that will use its complementary skills to lead the Lifer team into a new era of positive news. Tune in to learn more about GreatNews.Life's outstanding leadership team as they fulfill Founder Chris Mahlmann's dream of shining light on local heroes, and sharing the great news unfolding in Northwest Indiana every day.

To read more about the exciting, positive changes happening at GreatNews.Life read our article here: https://nwi.life/article/built-to-last-lady-lifers-take-lead-driving-great-news-forward/

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Traci Brubaker: Risk-Taker, Sales Consultant, Loving Aunt

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 23:00:00 -0600

In this month's episode of All About The Girls, Jenny Craig-Brown interviews Sales Consultant Traci Brubaker. Many steps led Traci to her final destination of helping others purchase cars. When she decided to take the leap of faith from an hourly position straight to commission, it was extremely scary.

Having been able to help many people over the almost 10 years with Team Automotive Group, she has learned that there are plenty of good people in the Automotive industry that really want to help. She strives to help others make the very best decisions for themselves, their family, and their children. She takes pride in her role of taking all of the pieces of the puzzle to try to figure out the best situation.

Traci Brubaker is currently living in Valparaiso and she loves the hometown feeling. She has 9 nieces and nephews and they are the apple of her eye. Currently, she attends Gracepoint Church and is growing stronger in her faith everyday.

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Buffy Adams: Passionate Fundraiser, LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate, Devoted Missionary

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0600

This month's episode of All About The Girls, Jenny Craig-Brown sits down with Buffy Adams, Director of Development for St. Jude's House. Buffy shares her experiences in marketing, communications and fundraising executive in both corporate and the not-for-profit sectors provides her with unique perspectives from diverse industries that include consumer products, healthcare, technology, finance, entertainment, youth programming/services, professional athletics, concerts, movies, television and higher education.

Whether gambling next to “Princess Leia's mom” at an AMC junket, almost snowboarding off a mountain in Austria, being a missionary in Central America, being held at the Ukraine border smuggling digital Bibles into Russia, living and working in DC on 9/11, raising $3 million in nine months for Indiana’s LGBTQ+ youth, or being a part of a dedicated team working to empower families to live a life free of abuse while bringing attention to the public health emergency of domestic violence, Buffy is determined to leave a meaningful mark on the world in which she lives.

The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life

Jenn Brown: Marketing Consultant, Avid Communicator, and Devoted Mother

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 23:00:00 -0600

GreatNews.Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

This episode features Jenn Brown, a marketing consultant for CAPTRUST, one of the country's leading independent advisory firms. With over 15 years of experience inside the marketing world. Jenn focuses on content and communication strategies for CAPTRUST along with Sales Enablement and Relationship Management. Outside of the office, Jenn loves being in nature (but only in the summer) and spending quality time with her husband, Russ, and three sons, Ryley, Easten, and Theo. She is also a dog mother to her two pups, Nala and Neeko.

The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life

Erin Parker: English & Journalism Educator, Indiana Teacher Leader, Loving Aunt, Educational Program Developer with Dr. Brene Brown

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0600

This episode features Erin Parker, an 11 year highschool English/Journalism Educator. She has been chosen as an Indiana Teacher Leader and now mentor. As a lover of education, Erin has also worked with Dr. Brene Brown on two different occasions in her quest to bring her work into education. As an avid reader, writer, and travelor, Erin loves fawning over a beautiful sunset at Lake Michigan. Among 2018 Good Life Recipient and Young LaPortean of the Year, Erin's greatest honor is her role as a loving aunt.

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Candace Arvin: wife, mom, General Insurance Services team member, and traveler of the world

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0500

Life and Podcast Host Jenny Craig-Brown have transformed the All About the Girls annual event into a podcast! These monthly episodes feature incredible women giving the audience all the insight about what makes them happy, successful, and motivational. New episodes launch on Sundays to make sure to start your week on a positive note!

This episode features Candace Arvin, a former Lifer turned insurance rep and family gal with a long history in sales, a thirst for travel and a community based company, General Insurance Services, behind her. Candace dives into all things personal and how she manages family, fun and a career.

The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life

Robin Rock: Radio Personality on Middays at 93.9 LITE FM & Radio Personality Middays at iHeartMedia Inc, Community Member, Runner, Cyclist

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0500

This episode features Robin Rock, Radio Personality on Middays at 93.9 LITE FM & Radio Personality Middays at iHeartMedia Inc. Robin is a devoted runner and cyclist, dedicated mother, and a strong community member.

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Denise Carpenter: All Around Incredible Volunteer, Community Member, and NorthShore Health Centers Team Member

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0500

This episode features Denise Carpenter, the Communication and Engagement Manager at NorthShore Health Centers who started The Jim G. Carpenter Foundation with her family and so much more! Listen now to learn all about her and get in a few laughs along the way!

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Donna Flanagin: Owner of Flanagin’s Bulk Mail Service & Fairy Gladmother to the Flanagin Fairies

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0500

This episode features Donna Flanagin, owner and operator of Flanagin’s Bulk Mail Service. Donna is an avid fan, follower and influencer of Disney and has completed several classes at the Disney Institute in Orlando, Florida. Donna is the creator of the Flanagin Fairies, a group of fairies that spread joy and love throughout the entire community and gives countless hours to the community ongoing.

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Blair Milo: Indiana's first Secretary for Career Connections and Talent

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0500

This episode features Blair Milo who currently serves as the State of Indiana's first Secretary for Career Connections and Talent. Milo also served as Mayor of La Porte, Indiana after being first elected in 2011 and reelected in 2015. In early 2017 Mayor Milo was named “Elected Official of the Year” by the Indiana Parks and Recreation Association. Secretary Milo served as a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy. Blair Milo was born and raised in La Porte, Indiana and graduated from La Porte High School.

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All About the Girls: Pilot Episode

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 11:00:00 -0500

The All About the Girls Podcast is brought to you by GreatNews.Life