The OWA Unplugged retreat was everything I hoped for and so much more. As someone very new to the optical industry, I wasn’t sure what to expect but hearing from so many inspiring women and having the space to connect with them on a deeper, more personal level, was truly transformative. What stood out most throughout the weekend was the genuine connections. I found myself forming friendships with women from all different walks of life, each with their own stories, strengths, and perspectives. Despite being new to this space, I felt welcomed, supported, and encouraged in ways I never anticipated. I’m leaving the retreat with a new sisterhood in my corner, not only cheering me on professionally but supporting me personally. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the incredible things that happen when women truly lift each other up. -Molly Ryan View the full hi-res gallery from the OWA Unplugged Retreat The Optical Women’s Association’s Unplugged Retreat was a meaningful experience, taking the closeness and camaraderie that makes our industry special to the next level. It was clear from the weekend’s opening activities that careful planning had gone into the itinerary, ensuring that our time together was a perfect mix of personal reflection, building connections, and lighthearted fun. From a professional perspective, the retreat offered an opportunity to meet and strengthen relationships with talented women across the vision community. On a personal level, bonds solidified through vulnerable moments and laughter over line dancing will translate to lasting friendships and a sense of belonging at future industry events.  Attendees represented many different generations, and the sharing of both professional and personal wisdom from women in all stages of life was so valuable. I left Arizona feeling a deeper connection to the industry we love and to the women who make it fabulous. -Cydney Hartner View the full hi-res gallery from the OWA Unplugged Retreat The OWA UNPLUGGED Retreat in Scottsdale this year offered something truly rare in our always-on world: a few days without phones, photos, or digital noise. In that intentional quiet, connection took on a different meaning. As women in eye care, we arrived hoping to network — but in letting go of the distractions, many of us found something deeper. From sunrise yoga and fireside conversations to story-telling bracelet crafting and moonlit line dancing by the pool, each moment reminded us that leadership begins from within. For me, the retreat created space to hear my own thoughts again — a reconnection I didn’t realize I needed. The laughter felt lighter, the conversations ran deeper, and the calm was something no signal can deliver. Unplugging didn’t distance us; it grounded us. It brought us back to purpose, presence, and people — the heart of why we lead and the reason communities like OWA matter so deeply. -Katie Chu View the full hi-res gallery from the OWA Unplugged Retreat A weekend to truly unplug with women in the industry — sharing experiences, stories, and meaningful conversations. The OWA Unplugged Retreat brings key initiatives to life in a three-day event that has traveled from California to South Carolina and, this year, to beautiful Arizona. It was a time to sit by the fire and talk freely, learn fun facts about one another, line dance, and enjoy moments that strengthen genuine connection. We woke up on a gorgeous Saturday morning to yoga by the pool, setting the tone for a weekend that left us inspired and eager for what's ahead. Over the last three years, the retreat has allowed me to build deep relationships with women who have contributed to my personal and professional growth. Whether gathered around the fire pit or sharing stories over dinner, the conversations are authentic, uplifting, and memorable. If you are a member, I encourage you to attend the retreat and experience the power of connecting with women in our industry. And if you are not yet a member, I invite you to join the OWA so you can be part of a community that leads, inspires, and supports. -Janna Neal,   Connection and Enrichment Committee Co-Chair

The OWA works hard to provide useful and relevant content and events for our members — listening to the industry is vital to our success and we greatly appreciate your input. Please take a minute or two to complete this short and simple survey. Thank you in advance for your feedback! Thank you so much for taking the time to help us improve the OWA, we look forward to continuing to bring you great content and events!

The ClearVision-Adira Grant, founded in 2024 in partnership with the Optical Women’s Association, has quickly become a defining program supporting women’s growth and advancement across the optical industry. “The foundational role of my mother Mimi Friedfeld, as a founding member of the OWA, underscores ClearVision's deep-rooted commitment to supporting women in the optical industry,” David Friedfeld, co-owner and president of ClearVision, said. “This collaboration with the OWA through the ClearVision-Adira Grants, as well as our Platinum Sponsorship of the organization, reflects a legacy of empowerment and our shared mission with the OWA to champion women's achievements and potential in our field. We look forward to the positive impact these grants will have." This year’s grant recognizes two winners whose work reflects the program’s spirit of service and innovation: Tiffany Rosell, Owner of Sweet View Optical, and Aubri St. Clair, Owner of The Aubtician. Both women represent the next generation of leaders shaping the future of independent optical care. Funded by ClearVision Optical in alignment with the launch of its women’s brand, Adira, the ClearVision-Adira Grant awards two $2,000 grants each round—two rounds in its inaugural year of 2024 and one round in 2025—supporting women across every stage of their careers. Founded as a partnership between ClearVision and the OWA, the program invites members to submit 300-word personal essays responding to prompts about their greatest challenges, biggest dreams, and the skills or support they need to grow. All essays are anonymized during voting, ensuring fairness as OWA members select the winners. “[The ClearVision-Adira Grant] helped me grow not just as a professional, but also as a leader and advocate in the industry ,” Judy Quinones, a team lead licensed optician at LensCrafters and past winner, said, “with even more commitment to mentoring future opticians and helping grow the profession." Each year, the essays submitted paint a vivid picture of ambition and momentum in the field. Many applicants seek advanced training—whether mastering clinical specialties, strengthening leadership abilities, or pursuing long-delayed education. Their stories reflect a drive to push themselves further within an industry that continues to innovate rapidly. Entrepreneurship also runs strongly through the submissions. Applicants describe ambitions to build or expand businesses—from independent optical boutiques to consulting practices, custom frame studios, and health-forward services that tie wellness to patient care. These ventures are often driven by a desire for autonomy and the opportunity to create something that reflects their values, creativity, and commitment to community. “I applied for the grant because I wanted to start raising more dementia awareness for everyone,” Karen Michaelson, owner of KARE Consulting LLC and Eyes on Dementia, as well as a previous winner, shared. “ The Adira Grant gave me the last push to make it happen. " A deep sense of service threads through many essays. Some applicants focus on accessibility—improving vision care for children with disabilities, supporting low-income students, or increasing awareness around conditions such as concussions or dementia within the optical field. Others reflect on their own burnout or caregiving responsibilities and seek healthier balance to sustain themselves while continuing to support others. “ I am so grateful and honored to have the support of the OWA and ClearVision to make my dream of helping my non-verbal patients communicate effectively with fitting and dispensing their eyewear ,” Danielle Crull, owner of A Child’s Eyes and a past winner, said. “I truly believe this technology will help them express not only their needs, but also their personality. I do hope that we make a world more accessible to these awesome little human beings.” In these stories the purpose of the ClearVision-Adira Grant becomes unmistakable. It is not simply an investment in coursework, equipment, or training; it is an investment in the women who keep the optical industry moving forward. As the program continues to grow, so does the community it empowers—a network of women transforming their own futures and, in the process, the future of optical care itself.

Being a working mom means every trip I take is packed with more than just presentations and deadlines—it’s filled with purpose, pride, and the reminder of why I do it all. I love what I do—collaborating with smart, driven people, helping our team win, and feeling the energy that comes from making an impact. My work challenges me, fulfills me, and lets me grow into the kind of woman and mom I want my kids to see. Every time I wave goodbye, there’s that tug in my chest, a reminder that my heart doesn’t quite fit in a carry-on. Can anyone of you relate? If so, you’re not alone. And over the years, I’ve discovered simple, heartfelt ways to make those work trips still feel connected, comforting, and even a bit magical for our family: Surprise notes: Before heading out, I make a sticky note and place it by their bed, breakfast spot, or in their lunchbox. Little notes have become tradition around our house—even my 2nd grader will surprise me with a note in my suitcase while I’m away. Group text messages: We have a running group chat of selfies and inside jokes—anything that makes them feel close even from miles away. Comfort item: Give them a blanket or stuffed animal "from Mom” to cuddle with while you’re gone. It’s simple, but it helps with those "I miss you” moments. Matching bracelets: Taylor Swift isn’t the only one handing out friendship bracelets. We make bracelets and wear as a reminder that "I’m with you,” even when I’m not physically there. FaceTime handshakes: Do you have a special handshake? I do with each one of my children. It's hilarious but it's so worth the laugh and special moment. Easing back in: On your first night home, I like to spend a little one-on-one time with each child to reconnect and celebrate being back together. Loving what you do career-wise doesn’t mean you love your kids any less. When you light up talking about your team’s successful month, ace a presentation, or come home proud of what you accomplished, your kids see that joy. They see what it looks like to build a life filled with purpose and passion—and that’s one of the greatest examples we can give them. To every working mom reading this: you’re amazing. You’re showing your kids that it’s possible to chase big dreams and love deeply at home. Next time you pack your bags, remember you’re not just leaving . You’re also leading . Written by Andrea Miller (Ohrtman)

The Individual Contributor program provides the opportunity for ANY individual to support the OWA and its mission of enhancing and promoting the leadership role of women in the optical industry through networking, education, and peer support. ​ Support from Individual Contributors directly funds the OWA Leadership Scholarship , an award granted to a board-nominated OWA member who has shown exemplary volunteer service in helping the OWA reach its goals. The recipient of this award will be granted an esteemed leadership experience (seminar, conference, workshop, etc.), including airfare, hotel, and registration. Thank you to our 2025 Individual Contributors—learn more about them and why they support the OWA: Jamie Shyer Co-CEO, COO / Zyloware Eyewear Why I Support the OWA: I believe as industry leaders it is our responsibility to make both professional and personal investments to the growth of our industry. I know my annual contribution as an OWA Individual Contributor goes directly to programs to support our current and future leaders, which includes many of my team members as well. Without a doubt this is money well spent! Deb Bulken VP of Sales, Eastern Region / EssilorLuxottica Why I Support the OWA: I am committed to doing my part to create as many opportunities as possible for woman to excel and live their best lives. Being an Individual Contributor is one way of investing in the future of our industry by supporting our deserving members leadership journey. Howard Purcell President & CEO / New England College of Optometry Why I Support the OWA: I have had the honor and privilege of working with some incredible leaders and innovators, many of whom are women. I have also observed the unique difficulties and challenges many women face in the workplace. It is clear to me the OWA is doing important and much-needed work to celebrate the current and future contributions of women in the optical industry while focusing on its mission of supporting and promoting the professional development of women involved in all facets of the optical industry. Liz Friedfeld Head of Business Development / ClearVision Optical Why I Support the OWA: The OWA is an amazing organization filled with passionate individuals dedicated to helping women succeed through personal development, networking, and mentorship. By donating to the individual contributors' fund, I am choosing to directly influence the advancement of women through scholarship and help provide the skills they deem most valuable. This program benefits the individual and our landscape: establishing more opportunities, more thought leaders, more role models, and more movement towards true gender equity. I'm thrilled to contribute. Lorie L. Lippiatt, OD OWA Immediate Past-President Why I Support the OWA: I contribute to the Individual Contributor program as I choose to support the OWA with an additional level of support. This support directly aligns with the mission statement of supporting the leadership role of women in the Optical Industry by providing Leadership Scholarship Awards to deserving women in the Industry. Matthew MacDonald President / EyeMed Why I Support the OWA: The OWA's commitment to supporting, developing, and celebrating women continues to be such a positive beacon in the optical industry. What truly captivated me is how the OWA balances celebrating the incredible women leaders in the optical industry while also challenging the status quo to create an even brighter future. Through their members, they provide networking, education, and peer support to thousands of women each year. As an individual contributor, I am proud to support the OWA and honor the talents, passion, and diversity of the women empowering amazing eyecare. Megan Molony OWA President, CEO / Europa Eyewear Why I Support the OWA: The OWA does so much to honor, develop, empower and promote the women of our industry. The IC program allows me to support these efforts individually, above and beyond the support that my company provides. Talia Bruno Sr. Director of National Accounts / Essilor Instruments Why I Support the OWA: When women become leaders, they bring talents, new views, alongside structural and cultural diversity to the companies they work for, resulting in more successful solutions. My contribution to the IC program allows me to empower our future leaders by investing in seminars, conferences, mentoring, and workshops. When supporting this program, we are directly ensuring women's long term career growth and providing companies with the next generation of rising talent. Learn more about how you can support an award that provides a professional mentoring opportunity to reward those who have volunteered their time and efforts to help the OWA reach its goals, and to promote the founding principles of the organization: to connect, inspire, and lead future leaders.

Founded in 1997, the OWA has years  of content from our members! If you haven't logged in  recently, here's a preview of what you're missing! One Minute Inspirations Member only content, must be logged in to read Helping Employees Adapt to Change Written by member  Audrey Pavia, October 11, 2011 We all face change more often than not. Staff changes, downsizing, reorganizing and cost cutting are most common especially today amongst a fiercely economic environment. No industry is exempt. Read more "Humanness" Through Creativity Written by member Carla D'Angelo , October 15, 2014   In a world where talks of AI and its implementation are increasingly dominant, the opportunity for us to share our unique "humanness" is through our creativity. As I prepare to send my son to university to study engineering, I cannot help but wonder what type of a world he will enter for his career. Read more The All-Powerful Handwritten Note Written by member  Rachel Meyer, EdD, CPO, November 16, 2015 Do you remember the last time you received a handwritten note? What about the last time you wrote and physically mailed a handwritten note or thank you card? I learned of the enjoyment of receiving mail like many of you did, getting birthday cards or pen pal letters in elementary school. Read more The Value of Values Written by member  Jennifer Trakhtenberg, November 1, 2018 I often receive comments from visitors noting how much we focus on making our environment fun and lively, and on giving back to the community. Those things are all authentic, but they aren't done for the sake of being "nice." Read more The Gift of a "Thank You" Written by member   Carol Wilbur, November 15, 2020 Almost from the time we learned to write, my mother made sure all of us kids acknowledged our birthday and Christmas presents with a handwritten "thank you" note. I have to admit that this task went on my "put off as long as possible" list for many years, right up there with eating the spinach on my plate . . . . Read more Find Your Voice Written by member Erika Plank, September 15, 2022 A few months ago, I went through an exercise that had me reflect on the best pieces of advice I've received in my career. For me, one of the these came from a senior leader as I was starting my leadership journey: "Find your voice." Read more Blog Articles The Modern Manager: “Tik Tok University” Written by member Mikki Collins, October 28, 2022 When most people think of Tiktok, they think of silly dances and lip syncing videos. The app gained rapid popularity amid COVID shutdowns in 2020 as billions of people joined the platform. Tik Tok has not only revolutionized social media, but it has revolutionized the way we communicate, learn, and talk about real life situations. Read more Coping With Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Written by member Lindsay Romah, October 27, 2023 Many may find they experience a change in mood and energy levels as the days grow shorter and the temperature goes lower. This seasonal affective disorder (also referred to as seasonal depression) is appropriately abbreviated, SAD! Loss of daylight during the winter months can trigger feelings of sadness, lethargy, and a lack of motivation. Read more Tips On Hiring The Perfect Team Member Written by member Tracy Neal, November 10, 2023 Hiring the perfect team member can be a time-consuming and daunting task that can significantly impact your company’s success. Let’s look at some strategies to help identify and hire the ideal candidate for your team. Read more Working As A Millennial Written by member Tracey Esser, November 1, 2024 As I sit in my office, juggling branding initiatives and brainstorming new marketing ideas, an early career moment comes to mind. An old boss once told me I’d never reach a high level role until much later in life.   Read more Mentorship Matters: Building Meaningful Connections for Career Advancement Written by member Jill Saxon, OD, FAAO, November 8, 2024 In optometry, it can feel like the path to career advancement is mostly about gaining technical expertise. But the truth is, those skills are just one part of the equation. For women in optical fields, having a mentor can be one of the most powerful tools to help foster both personal and professional growth.   Read more Podcast Leadership Insight and Strategies Guest members Cathy Firman and Kylie Matya , October 26, 2021 Join two of OWA’s 2020 Leadership Scholars in this month’s podcast to hear impactful moments from their professional development experiences and how they work to support the OWA’s mission of helping to connect, inspire, and lead in the optical field.   Listen Communication Skills in Consultative Sales Guest member Amy Hendrick , October 25, 2022 Her 15 years experience in the optical industry began at a LASIK surgery center, where she found passion in educating patients on the surgery process, easing their fears and facilitating their life changing surgery. Listen Michelle Skinner, VSP Vision Guest member Michelle Skinner, October 31, 2023 Michelle outlines her ‘Three C’s’ approach to leadership and explains how to use this approach to navigate change, foster growth and plan for the future in uncertain times. Listen Sophia Pray Guest member Sophia Pray, September 23, 2024 Sophia is contagiously happy, oh so colorful and calling her an eyewear enthusiast would be an understatement. In this episode, we discuss the importance of continued learning and being your authentic self, "It is important to invest in yourself and push yourself to greatness." Listen If you're looking for more great OWA content, visit the Members Only section  to browse the archives.

Frame board management is one of the most effective ways for ECPs to increase profitability while still delivering exceptional patient care. A frame board isn’t just a display of eyewear; it’s a strategic sales tool. When managed well, it can improve cash flow, reduce overhead costs, boost capture rates, and enhance the patient experience. Carrying too much inventory ties up valuable cash flow, even if the frames were purchased at a deal that seemed too good to pass up on. If the product doesn’t sell through, that deal becomes costly. The key is maintaining a mix of brands, styles, and price points that match patient demand while keeping financial efficiency in mind. Board management also reduces the need for excessive understock. Think of every frame as a $100 bill, you don’t want those bills sitting in trays under your board, you want them in your pocket! Another way to visualize it: your frame board is an apartment building. Every frame is a tenant, and each one must "pay rent” by selling. Be sure to regularly track frame turn rates by brand, and leverage both your sales reps’ expertise and your opticians’ understanding of patient preferences to curate the ideal assortment for your practice. This strategy also minimizes costly returns, which come with hidden expenses like labor, shipping, and insurance. A curated selection tailored to your patients’ style and budget makes it more likely they’ll purchase from your practice instead of elsewhere. A higher capture rate means more revenue per patient, without investing in extra marketing expenses. Satisfied patients are also more likely to stay loyal and recommend your practice; referrals cost you nothing but deliver tremendous value. In summary, by viewing your frame boards as a retail tool rather than just a display, you can maximize capture rates, optimize inventory investments, and strengthen patient loyalty. In today’s climate of tightening reimbursements, the optical dispensary remains one of the most reliable opportunities for long-term revenue growth. Article written by  Lindsay Romah

Connection Series Luncheon At the recent Vision Expo in Las Vegas, I had the privilege of attending the OWA’s Connection Series—Spark Sessions: Women Who Light the Fire—an event that truly lived up to its name. The sessions featured three dynamic 10-minute Lightning Talks, each aligned with one of the OWA’s guiding pillars: Connect, Inspire, and Lead. Emceed by Erinn Morgan, founder of Insight Media Group and Envision Communication, the afternoon brought together women from across the optical industry for meaningful conversation and thought-provoking takeaways. Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz opened with Inspire, reflecting on how authenticity and influence can drive real-world impact. She shared her personal journey of staying true to herself, including the honor of having a Barbie inspired by her as a frontline worker during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Melissa Barnett followed with Connect, emphasizing the power of cultivating genuine relationships to advance both professionally and personally. She offered practical strategies for living intentionally and creating meaningful connections in business and community life. Closing the series, Sue Downes, CEO and Co-Founder of MyEyeDoctor, embodied Lead . Through a candid Q&A, she shared lessons learned throughout her career—demonstrating how clarity, courage, and vision has shaped her into a powerhouse leader in the optical industry. The experience was made even richer by interactive brainstorming sessions after each talk, giving attendees space to share insights and spark new ideas both at their tables and on the screen. By the end, the room was alive with energy—a collective sense of empowerment and possibility. This Connection Series was a powerful reminder that when women come together to share, listen, and lift each other up, the result is more than inspiration—it’s momentum. I left feeling reconnected, re-energized, and ready to light my own fire. -Cathy Firman Watch the full Connection Series—Spark Sessions: Women Who Light the Fire video here: View the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEW 2025 here Her Story: A Celebration of Strength at Vision Expo West The Optical Women’s Association launched a deeply moving initiative at Vision Expo West called Her Story. This event drew an incredible turnout from across the industry. The event spotlighted the purpose and heart behind Her Story —a new OWA movement created to support women in optical who are currently facing or have previously faced a cancer diagnosis. This powerful program fosters connection, empowerment, community, and a helping hand when it’s needed most. Inspired by the legacy of Claudia Garza-Robinson—whose strength, positivity, and love for optical continue to shine through Her Story —the event honored women who embody resilience and compassion in the face of adversity. The highlight of the evening was recognizing Jenny Wiley, Director of Member Experience at PECAA, as this year’s Her Story Hero . Jenny, who is courageously battling cancer, continues to radiate light, kindness, and strength, selflessly uplifting others even amid her own challenges. Attendees also enjoyed the Frames of Strength showcase, where frame companies presented designs symbolizing empowerment and resilience. Members voted on their favorite, with Match Eyewear earning top honors for its Vanni style—representing the beauty of rebuilding and finding grace through life’s challenges. The Her Story event served as a touching reminder of the power of community, the strength of women supporting women, and the enduring light that shines even in life’s hardest moments. -Katie Lauver BID$ & BEV$ As always, OWA’s annual Bid$ & Bev$ networking event was filled with excitement, energy, and connection! It was such a blast catching up with fellow OWA members, especially finally meeting in person some of the amazing women we’ve only seen on Zoom this past year! With drinks in hand, we bid on an incredible lineup of raffle items, from luxury eyewear and travel experiences to exclusive industry swag and more. Watching people win those prizes is half the fun—it’s like a kid walking into a candy shop, except this time it’s adults winning… and really, when do adults ever win anything anymore? It was an evening full of fun, laughter, and connections! Until next time! -Sarah Lee View the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEW 2025 here Silmo At Silmo Paris, I had the honor of being a greeter simply marked with a beautiful silk pink flower pin for “Seeing Beyond: The Power of Women in Optical Innovation,” an inspiring global event that was eloquently facilitated by Nancy Gries, chair of the OWA International Expansion Committee (IEC).  Opening the event was Silmo President, Amélie Morel. The panel was a powerhouse of dynamic, trailblazing women whose insights shattered ceilings and sparked connection. Olga Prenat (Essilor-Luxottica), Kivilcim Erdogan (Bausch & Lomb), and Atissa Tadjadod (Silhouette). Hearing the international twist on the future was truly eye opening of what is to come. Not only technology and offerings but what women are doing to change the future of how all of it will be done. The experience of networking, sharing stories, and weaving common threads with women across borders was nothing short of transformative. Fun fact:  In Paris OWA is playfully pronounced "Oh Ah”, catchy, chic, and totally unforgettable. Oui, oui! -Karen Michaelson View the full hi-res gallery of photos from Silmo 2025 here Thank you to all who attended OWA events at Vision Expo West and Silmo — we will see you in 2026!

The Communications and Website Committee  is spicing up the OWA Connects  blog with a quarterly 'Wrong Answers Only' series. We asked members of the blog-managing committee for their response to, " What Kind of Questions/Comments Should you Post in Optical Social Groups? " — but you guessed it, wrong  answers only! Quick disclaimer: these quotes are in no way intended to provide medical advice, and are strictly for your entertainment! Do you have your own 'wrong answer'? Add it to the list by commenting below! Thoughts on breaking patients’ glasses so they HAVE to get a new pair ?? 😈 🤭 🤷🏽‍♀️ -Kendra Katchko Can I put my glasses in the dishwasher for a deep clean? Asking for a friend. -Sarah Lee Saturday Selfies with something funny in the reflection of your lenses 😅 - Megan Smart, ABOC What frame shapes should I recommend for Virgos vs. Aries? Any good resources on matching star signs to lens coatings? -Ari Avila I'm not a fan of touching my eyes. Is it ok to remove my contact lenses with tweezers? -Katie Lauver I found these frames at the gas station for $5. Can I just pop my prescription in? -Trac ey Esser Can anyone help me find out what this frame is (but it’s a totally pixelated and blurry picture of the frame)? -Lindsay Romah Can I microwave my frames to adjust the fit myself? -Madalyn Moeller I am looking for new ways to punk patients when they arrive late to appointments – soliciting suggestions. -Jennifer Trakhtenberg Which tint makes your dog invisible to squirrels? -Tracy Neal I happen to lease a (pick an optical chain) and I pick up a lease at a competitor down the street, can I take my records with me? -Anonymous What do the numbers on your glasses prescription actually mean? -Kelly Cai Look at how ugly these frames are that we just sold. You won’t believe what we charged for them. -Courtney Myers My reading prescription is a +2.00, but they’re out of that prescription in pre-made readers. Can I just buy 2 pairs of +1.00 readers and stack them on top of each other? -Nicole Joli My prescription expired in 2009, but vibes are still strong. -A yanna Wade Let us know your Wrong Answer  to   What Kind of Questions/Comments Should you Post in Optical Social Groups?  by commenting below!

Dear Me: At this stage in life and career, I thought you’d be past a few things. I thought confidence would replace nerves, efficiency would replace perfectionism and wisdom would replace the need for multiple notebooks, planners and what looks like stock in post-it notes. Spoiler alert : It hasn’t. You still re-read important emails at least 10 times. Yes, you might still catch something on the 11 th , after it’s already been sent. You still feel that little flutter before a big presentation, even when you know the material backwards and forwards. You still wear your 'marketing hat' everywhere you go; rewriting taglines on billboards in your head, side-eyeing fonts on signage (all signage, let’s be honest) and critiquing commercials like it’s your own personal sport. But here’s the truth…these quirks aren’t weaknesses. They’re proof you care. That over-editing? It’s why your message comes through crystal clear. That nervous energy? It means you’re invested in the outcome. That constant analyzing? It’s what keeps your ideas sharp. The post-it notes, the many notebooks, and calendars may look messy, but they’re proof your creativity and detail side are in fact meeting in the middle. So maybe you haven’t outgrown these things and maybe you never will. Nor do you really need to. They’re not signs you’re unpolished; they’re signs you’re passionate about what you do. That’s a quality worth keeping at every stage of your career. Being human, quirks and all, is exactly what makes you effective and the marketer you are today. Signed, Me (the one who will still check this blog post makes sense 15 times before I actually hit send). 😊 Written by: Tracey Esser

Networking can feel intimidating—it sometimes seems forced, transactional, or like you’re supposed to 'work the room' and collect as many business cards (or virtual cards these days) as you can. But the truth is, the best connections usually come from small, genuine moments: a thoughtful conversation, a quick note of encouragement, or an introduction that brings two people together. That’s what real networking is about—building relationships that last. We asked a few OWA members to share their best tips, and their advice all circles back to the same theme: be genuine, stay curious, and remember that networking is really just people connecting with people. Genuine Connections That Stick Reagan Colpitts emphasizes that the heart of networking lies in authenticity: Be Genuine in Your Approach Don’t think of networking as a numbers game - focus on smaller, deeper connections where real trust can form. Focus on Giving Share opportunities, connect others, and offer insights. The more value you provide, the more natural it becomes for opportunities to flow back to you. Share Your Story Memorably When introducing yourself, avoid generic job titles. Instead, use a simple story or example that makes what you do easy to remember. Take Initiative and Spread Positivity Dibby Bartlett reminds us that networking doesn’t have to be intimidating - sometimes it just takes courage and kindness: Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out Even if you’ve never met someone, take the first step. More often than not, people are open to new connections. Send Notes of Encouragement A quick email, text, or handwritten note recognizing someone’s achievement can go a long way. Everyone appreciates a thoughtful “atta-girl.” Connect Good People with Good People By bringing kind, talented individuals together, you’ll not only grow your own network but also foster a stronger community. Curiosity and Trust as Cornerstones Nancy Gries highlights that strong networks are rooted in genuine interest and reliability: Be Curious, Not Just Prepared Go beyond your talking points - ask open-ended questions and truly listen to others. Quality Over Quantity A handful of meaningful, aligned connections will serve you far better than a stack of business cards. Build Trust First Reliability and integrity make people want to collaborate with you. Trust transforms a connection into a lasting partnership. Keep It Simple and Keep It Going Danielle Martin’s advice focuses on action and consistency in your networking efforts: Add Value to Your Network Networking is a two-way street. Offer support, share knowledge, and help others make connections. Keep the Conversation Going Don’t let connections end at “nice to meet you.” Stay in touch by following up and engaging over time. Don’t Overthink It The scariest part is taking the first step. Once you do, you’ll find that most people are eager to connect and collaborate. At the end of the day, networking is really just about people having real conversations, showing up with curiosity, and being kind. It’s about the relationships that actually stick and grow over time. Little things—like sharing your story, sending a note, or connecting two good people—are what make the biggest difference. The next time you attend an event, strike up a conversation or try a few of these tips. Message an OWA member who has interest in a Coffee Connection—sometimes one small conversation could turn into a lasting connection. Written by Sarah Lee

Earning recognition for your drive, discipline, and deep commitment to excellence is impressive. You have likely built a meaningful career by outworking, outthinking, and enduring to achieve results. For many, success has come through extra hours, relentless resourcefulness, and the kind of elbow grease that consistently outperforms peers. We have advanced our careers with the instilled premise that to accelerate, one must pay their dues, find innovative solutions, and deliver with consistency. Over time, those efforts, the late nights, the strategic rewrites, the quick-thinking ideas—became our signature. They shaped how we were perceived by others and how we defined ourselves, taking pride in making it happen. However, here is the friction: In today’s rapidly shifting world of work, what got us here may no longer get us there. Candidly, that challenge will necessitate a uniquely different skill set and approach! Incorporating AI and automation into how we work is no longer optional, it’s imperative. And yet for many high achievers, that transition feels deeply uncomfortable. It can seem like a shortcut, or worse, like cheating to rely on a system to do the research, writing, or heavy lifting that we once labored through ourselves. Letting go of effort as identity feels unsteady and disorienting. The good news? We can call on that same grit and channel it differently for exponentially greater impact. Adapting quickly and enthusiastically will define what you can accomplish next, and it’s  uncapped. Energized by tackling a thought puzzle and inspired by great workplace opportunities, we can seize the moment as a progressive leader and tour guide in this dynamic, evolving space. The boldest move we can make is to first intentionally challenge our own approach. It may feel counterintuitive to 'break up' with the habits that got us this far. But by doing so, we open ourselves to a new kind of excellence—one that’s efficient, innovative, and fully future-ready. Here are some meaningful mindset shifts and practical habits that can help: Seek New Thought Leaders to Expand Your Thinking Make space for voices outside your usual sphere through articles, posts, social groups, and podcasts. Follow thinkers who are leaning into ethical AI, productivity transformation, or emerging technologies in various functions and  different industries. Fresh inputs lead to new pathways. Interact with AI Like You're Mentoring an Intern Don’t expect perfection. Similar to working with an emerging team member, guide the tool, give context, and iterate. Treat it as part of your professional talent bench. Treat the Tool as a Thought Partner or Coach Use AI to surface questions, objections, reactions, and risks you haven’t considered. Let it help you see around corners to blind spots you didn’t even know were there. Build a Daily Practice Any time you think, "This is taking longer than it should,” pause and ask, “Could AI help with this?” The habit of self-inquiry is what makes adoption stick. Reframe the Shortcut Narrative This isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about elevating results. Reclaim efficiency as a leadership trait, not a compromise. Audit Your Time and Assign It Value Look closely at your calendar and track where AI has freed up time. Then consciously reallocate it toward strategy, mentorship, philanthropy, or innovation. Find Your Culture Champions Surround yourself with others successfully experimenting and adopting. It’s easier and more fun to learn together and be nudged in the right direction. Plus, it creates focus and accountability. Start the Conversation Name your usage out loud: "I used AI to jump-start this outline…” or “This framework came from a few prompts I tested…” You’ll signal openness and invite others into the experimenting sandbox. Take Pride in Efficiency, Not Just Effort Outcomes matter more than output. The most effective  leaders today are those who know when  to seek help rather than trying to muscle through it alone. Use AI as a 6-Hat Thinking Partner Use the tool to test decisions through various  lenses, such as those of a customer, critic, cheerleader, champion, and more. It helps stretch your thinking beyond your initial instincts. Change the Language, Change the Mindset Intentional references shift how we perceive its value. Call it a thought partner, a ghostwriter, a collaborator, a different lens. Words frame beliefs, and beliefs shape behavior. Dream Bigger with “What If” Prompts Try starting with, "I wonder if I could…” or "I wish there was a way to…” Let AI help you chase the ideas that once felt too complex or too far-fetched. Let AI Be Your Co-Author Use it daily to conceptualize ideas, draft concepts, and refine your language. You are still steering the car; incorporate as a turbo boost. The Future Belongs to the Curious —Introducing technology into the equation doesn’t mean abandoning your standards or losing your edge. It means redefining what excellence looks like in a new era. For ambitious, high-performing professionals who have earned every inch of progress, embracing AI doesn’t diminish your value—it multiplies it. Let’s lead curiously, courageously, and with that same zest for impact that got us here in the first place. It’s time to break up with old habits and level up, together. Written by Jennifer Trakhtenberg