Women Who Lead

Hosted by Cumulus Media Detroit, WJR

Business Arts

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Aug 2026

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About the show

760 WJR’s “Women Who Lead” spotlights female leaders from throughout the Great Lakes region who are influencing our communities in positive ways. Join your hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas Ewald for inspiring stories of women from all backgrounds and fields … business leaders, small business owners, community organizers, civil servants, volunteers, and more. Learn how these women are leaning in and pushing the world forward with their positive contributions!

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55 recent

August 15, 202638 min

Women Who Lead ~ Aug. 15, 2026

Aug. 18, 2026 ~ Host Ann Thomas highlights three women—Franka Arcangeli, Iris Frase, and Melissa Coolier—who are making a positive impact in their respective fields of mental health, professional motorsports, and outdoor wellness. These women share their motivations for creating accessible resources and supportive communities to help other women prioritize their well-being. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 18, 202638 min

Women Who Lead ~ July 18, 2026

July 18, 2026 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas Ewald talk to WJR's Jamie Edmonds, who shares her emotional experience completing chemotherapy and her ongoing efforts to support others through her podcast. Then, Dawn Magretta discusses the importance of lifelong learning and adapting to new technology within the evolving fields of marketing and philanthropy. Finally, Carol Anne Fausone reflects on her distinguished military career and current commitment to securing disability benefits for fellow veterans. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 20, 202638 min

Women Who Lead ~ June 20, 2026

June 20, 2026 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas Ewald welcome three prominent women leaders. First, Julie Ishak, nursing executive at University of Michigan Health, talks about nursing and her role. Next, Denise Brooks-Williams, COO of Henry Ford Health, discusses a major development project in Detroit. Finally, Athina Papas, president of the Greektown Neighborhood Partnership, shares details on the Greektown streetscape project and offers advice to aspiring women leaders. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 16, 202638 min

Women Who Lead ~ May 16, 2026

May 16, 2026 ~ Ann Thomas introduces Dr. Nancy O’Reilly, an international philanthropist, author, and advocate for women’s empowerment, who discusses her work with Women Connect for Good and her dedication to gender equity. She shares her personal journey and her passion for helping women understand their power and build supportive relationships. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 18, 202639 min

Women Who Lead ~ April 18, 2026

April 18, 2026 ~ Host Ann Thomas introduces Kristin Falconer, founder of Trailer Events, who shares her journey in event planning and property restoration, including her unique kitchen and restroom trailers. Later, Thomas speaks with Christine Kinal, CEO of Haven of Oakland County, who discusses her personal journey and Haven’s services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Finally, Thomas interviews Mary Buchzeiger, CEO of Lucerne International, who recounts her career in the automotive industry and the creation of Lucerne Global Solutions, a foreign trade zone service. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 21, 202638 min

Women Who Lead ~ March 21, 2026

March 21, 2026 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas-Ewald highlight two 2026 Women Who Lead honorees: Andrea Nicolella, co-owner of Nino Salvagio’s, and Dr. Suzy Siegle, president and CEO of Walsh College. Andrea Nicolella discusses the family business, its growth, and a new collaboration with Schoolcraft College, emphasizing the importance of employee happiness and hands-on learning. Dr. Susie Siegel shares her passion for education, the value of practical degrees, and her perspective on integrating AI ethically and responsibly into business and education. Plus, the hosts explore Michigan Rosie Day and its role in bringing women into the manufacturing industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 21, 202637 min

Women Who Lead ~ Feb. 21, 2026

Feb. 21, 2026 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas Ewald highlight three women leaders in Michigan. Renee Fluker discusses the Midnight Golf program, which helps high school seniors with college preparation and life skills. Jen Brummitt shares her journey as CEO of Gazelle Sports, emphasizing customer experience and community involvement, while Vanessa Denha-Garmo introduces her new book on communication styles and leadership. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

December 27, 202537 min

Women Who Lead ~ Dec. 27, 2025

Dec. 27, 2025 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas Ewald introduce six honorees from this year’s “Women Who Lead” class, highlighting their work in various sectors. Sharman Davenport and Laura Hewatt discuss their roles at Turning Point and The Guidance Center, respectively, focusing on support for survivors of abuse and mental health services. Megan Spanitz and Krista Tanner share insights into their leadership roles at the University of Michigan Credit Union and ITC Holdings Corp, emphasizing community involvement and industry challenges, while Carrie Doehman and Megan Spanitz from Little Guide Detroit and the Detroit Regional Chamber discuss their organizations’ impact on community engagement and regional development. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

November 22, 202537 min

Women Who Lead ~ Nov. 22, 2025

Nov. 22, 2025 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luann Thomas Ewald welcome six Women Who Lead honorees to the show to discuss their careers. Dr. Sonya Hassan Duggan works to solve Michigan’s maternal and infant health crisis. Karen Arndt-Doski shares how her company, IF Metalworks, gives back to the community and mentors young women. Miki Maynard discusses the current state and future of the automotive industry and tariffs. Carol Zuniga, CEO of Higira Health, talks about mental health care and the impact of social media. Kelly Walgamott highlights the importance of Michigan’s tourism industry and the Pure Michigan campaign. Dr. Ora Pescovitz, President of Oakland University, emphasizes the value of higher education, adaptability, and resilience in one’s career. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

September 27, 202538 min

Women Who Lead ~ Sept. 27, 2025

Sept. 27, 2025 ~ Hosts Ann Thomas and Luanne Thomas Ewald talk to Women Who Lead nominees Kerry Doman and Krista Tanner, along with exploring the Women Rock Science event on Oct. 8. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.