To honor Women’s History Month, BAMKO’s SWAG: Women in Business group, which brings together women across all departments at BAMKO for discussion on the challenges we face and the barriers we can break as women in the business world, held a panel discussion on women leadership. For this panel, we welcomed four extraordinary leaders: Nicolette Stepakoff, Bevin Conley, Pam Seidman, and Erin Maroon. These are women who’ve stared down impossible odds, laughed in the face of convention, and found that sweet spot where ‘balance’ isn’t a myth, but a daily practice.
This discussion went beyond sharing accomplishments; our panelists revealed the raw power of authentic leadership, fueled by unwavering resolve. They proved that true success isn’t a distant destination, but a continuous journey of growth, built step by deliberate step.
These incredible women didn’t just climb the ladder; they built their own staircase. And guess what? They’re sharing the blueprints.
Nicolette Stepakoff, Google Workspace Specialist
Nicolette Stepakoff is a dynamic force in the tech consulting world, heading her own firm while specializing as a Google Workspace expert. What sets Nicolette apart is her ability to bridge the gap between technology and people. She excels at communicating the “why” behind change, empowering executives, project leaders, and employees to embrace new systems with confidence.
Her approach is grounded in practicality and empathy, understanding the stress that can accompany change and encouraging a proactive, team-oriented response. “Break the panic cycle: Instead of spiraling, gather your team. Identify the source of stress, prioritize, and tackle it one step at a time,” Nicolette said. “Learn how to name the tension – what’s truly causing it?”
Ultimately, Nicolette champions a holistic view of success, advocating for a life that feels fulfilling on a personal level. “Build a life that feels good to live,” she said. “Success looks different for everybody– know what success looks like to you, and live in those moments when it happens.”
Bevin Conley, CFO of BAMKO
Bevin Conley, BAMKO’s Chief Financial Officer, brings over two decades of financial expertise to the table, coupled with a profound understanding of leadership and team dynamics. Her leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in fostering resilience and preparedness. “Effective leadership isn’t just about results; it’s about fostering a team that supports each other, in both successes and challenges,” said Bevin. “To lead through pressure, you need a team that’s there for each other, no matter what.”
Bevin champions a proactive approach to team connection. Instead of establishing a team that is only connected by the work they do, she advocates for building genuine relationships. “Find a common thread with the people you work with,” she advises. “Even a small shared interest or experience can build a bridge, fostering a sense of connection that strengthens teamwork and collaboration.”
To Bevin, any challenge can be overcome with proper preparation. “I have been in that room where I’m the only woman, surrounded by bankers and lawyers and C-suite professionals,” she says. “I combat feelings of impostor syndrome by always being prepared and learning to be comfortable in my expertise. If you trust that you know the material, the confidence will come.”
Pam Seidman, Founder of BYBBA
Pam Seidman is a visionary entrepreneur and the driving force behind BYBBA (Bring Your Bag Back Around), a company dedicated to combating single-use plastic waste through innovative, multi-purpose bag designs. Pam advocates for strategic energy management, urging individuals to focus on areas where they can make a real impact. “Sometimes, when you’re trying to change the world, you need to adopt a ‘let them’ philosophy,” she said. “We’re not here to reshape others’ perspectives. Save your energy for what matters, for what you can actually make a difference in.”
When it comes to balancing a busy life as a mom and a CEO, Pam emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and managing time effectively. “Balancing family and career is not about choosing one over the other,” said Pam. “It’s about recognizing that life unfolds alongside our professional journeys. Prioritization is key, but it shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. Instead, weave the richness of life into your career narrative. When life shifts, pay close attention. Observe the nuances, learn from others’ experiences, and consult with those who understand your aspirations.”
Pam is also a strong advocate for simple acts of self-care. “Commit to doing something for yourself every day, especially when you feel like you don’t have time for it,” she says. “Even small acts of self-care, like meditation or a quick workout, can make a significant difference in managing stress and maintaining your overall well-being. It’s not a luxury – it’s a necessity.”
Erin Maroon, CEO of Ashlie’s Embrace
Erin Maroon’s story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of personal tragedy. Her life took an unexpected turn when she and her husband experienced the stillbirth of their daughter, Ashlie. This devastating loss became a defining moment, forever altering her personal and professional life.
Erin’s experience led her to become the founder and CEO of Ashlie’s Embrace, a non-profit organization that provides CuddleCots™ to hospitals across the United States. “This experience showed me I was stronger than I ever believed I was,” Erin said. “Life can, and will, change in an instant. The best thing you can do is make sure you have the supportive environment that you need to manage the difficulties life throws at you.”
Beyond her non-profit work, Erin also excels as a sales director, showcasing her ability to navigate the demands of a professional career while passionately pursuing her mission. This was not the career path she had laid out for herself, but she has found incredible success through her resilience. “What you believe you’re meant to do might not be your true purpose, and that’s perfectly alright,” said Erin. “Embrace the fact that your path is individual and doesn’t have to conform to other people’s story. Be the victor, not the victim.”
Ultimately, Erin’s journey is a powerful example of transforming adversity into advocacy. She disagrees with the notion of “faking it till you make it,” advocating instead for perseverance and authenticity. “Don’t fake it ‘til you make it, do things that scare you!” Said Erin. “Do things that are hard, go after goals that you think you don’t deserve, and eventually, it’ll click!”
Their Blueprint to Authentic Success
These four women in leadership painted a vibrant tapestry of modern success. They’ve shown us that leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all model; it’s a dynamic blend of authenticity, resilience, and a deep understanding of human connection. Their stories are a powerful reminder that while the paths we take may diverge, the core principles of genuine self-expression, unwavering determination, and a commitment to lifting others remain constant.
As Women’s History Month comes to a close, let their insights resonate, inspiring us to build our own staircases, embrace our unique journeys, and redefine success on our own terms.
