PIONEERS at WORK!

Ellen Miller
  • 5.0 (13)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED DAILY

Pioneers at Work! is the podcast for trailblazing leaders, innovators, and visionaries who are reshaping industries and driving change. Hosted by Ellen Miller, Founder and CEO of MPowered, this series dives deep into the journeys of extraordinary individuals who are breaking barriers, redefining success, and building a better future. Through inspiring conversations, actionable insights, and transformative stories, Pioneers at Work! empowers leaders at every level to embrace their potential, lead with impact, and navigate the complexities of today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or someone aspiring to make a difference, this podcast is your guide to unlocking fresh perspectives and pioneering new paths. Join us as we explore what it means to lead boldly, innovate courageously, and create lasting change.

  1. Lead Where You Are: How Amy Marston is Revolutionizing Trade Industry Recruitment

    07/01/2025

    Lead Where You Are: How Amy Marston is Revolutionizing Trade Industry Recruitment

    What happens when a 24-year corporate veteran spots a critical gap in workforce development and decides to tackle it head-on? Amy Marston, founder of Edison Public Relations, brings passion and purpose to addressing one of today's most pressing economic challenges—the skilled labor shortage. Amy's journey begins with a powerful realization from her own experience: most young people simply don't know what career options exist beyond the handful of traditional professions they've been exposed to. After spending decades in the energy sector watching retirement-ready workers leave without adequate replacement pipelines, she launched her PR firm specifically to help trade industries, contractors, and educational institutions attract talent by telling their authentic stories. Throughout our conversation, Amy illuminates a surprisingly overlooked truth—trade businesses across Maine (and beyond) have remarkable stories worth telling. Many are generational operations with decades of economic impact who "think absolutely nothing of it because it's literally all they know." By highlighting their legacy, values, and the opportunities they provide, Amy helps these organizations not only build their brand but also attract employees who might never have considered these career paths. What stands out is Amy's practical approach to workforce development. She advocates getting employers into classrooms as early as middle school, offering hands-on experiences that students will excitedly share with parents. "All students want to know is how much money they'll make," she notes pragmatically, acknowledging that many would be surprised by the earning potential in skilled trades. For companies uncertain how to begin this outreach, she offers straightforward advice: "Pick up the phone, look up the website... More times than not, you're going to get a very emphatic yes." Amy's leadership philosophy—"lead where you are"—emerges as perhaps her most compelling leadership insight. Drawing from years of being "the lowest-ranked person at the table," she discovered that leadership isn't about titles but about seizing opportunities to make decisions when no one else will. This mindset ultimately empowered her entrepreneurial leap and continues guiding her approach to creating meaningful impact. Ready to close your organization's skills gap or tell your company's unique story? Connect with Amy at EdisonPublicRelations.com and join the movement to build sustainable workforce pipelines for the future. This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    26 min
  2. Forging Your Leadership Path with Heather Labbe

    05/06/2025

    Forging Your Leadership Path with Heather Labbe

    In this episode of Pioneers at Work, Ellen Miller interviews Heather Labbe, the Executive Director of the Travis Mills Foundation. Heather shares her journey from a finance background to leading a nonprofit that supports veterans with critical injuries. She discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, offers practical advice about mentorship, and encourages listeners to be bold in seeking guidance and the value of building authentic relationships. Heather emphasizes the need for aspiring leaders to be bold and recognize their worth, encouraging others to seek mentorship and support within their communities. The conversation concludes with Heather highlighting inspiring pioneers in her life and how they have shaped her leadership journey. This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    32 min
  3. Decision-Making Decoded - Cheryl Strauss-Einhorn

    03/05/2025

    Decision-Making Decoded - Cheryl Strauss-Einhorn

    Decision-making isn't just a skill; it's a vital aspect of leadership. In this enlightening conversation with Cheryl Strauss-Einhorn, we explore the intricacies of the decision-making process and how the AREA Method can transform your approach to critical choices. - Cheryl shares her journey from journalism to decision sciences   - Discussion on the developed AREA Method and its importance   - Exploration of how cognitive biases impact decision-making   - Insights into strategic decision-making and critical concepts   - The need for a systematic framework to adapt to technological changes   - Engaging teams and fostering a culture of collaborative decisions   Empower your decision-making skills by visiting areamethod.com to learn more about the Area Method and Cheryl's resources. This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    27 min
  4. Empowering Recovery: Carolyn Delaney's Journey from IT Leader to Inspirational Magazine Founder

    02/12/2025

    Empowering Recovery: Carolyn Delaney's Journey from IT Leader to Inspirational Magazine Founder

    Carolyn Delaney’s inspiring journey led her to create Journey Magazine, a publication that amplifies stories of recovery and educates communities on addiction. The episode emphasizes the importance of open conversations, community support, and accessible resources in overcoming stigma surrounding addiction. • Introduction to Carolyn Delaney and her recovery journey  • Genesis of Journey Magazine as a vehicle for hope  • Expanding reach to those affected by addiction  • Highlighting the ripple effect of shared stories  • The importance of education in dismantling stigma  • Encouraging community engagement and conversation  • Collaboration as a driving force behind success  • The introduction of the free online course, "Recovery Basics"  • Final thoughts on empathy and personal responsibility This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    37 min
  5. Navigating Executive Career Advancement: Strategies and Insights from Debra Boggs

    05/21/2024

    Navigating Executive Career Advancement: Strategies and Insights from Debra Boggs

    Unlock the secrets to executive success as Debra Boggs, CEO of D&S Executive Career Management, shares her expertise on career elevation for top-tier professionals. Our enlightening discussion traverses the path from crafting laser-focused job search strategies to the nuances of executive resumes and LinkedIn profiles, tailored for those aiming for VP, C-level, or board positions. Debra's insights promise to equip you with the necessary tools to navigate the complex landscape of leadership roles, ensuring your career journey is as strategic and impactful as your leadership style. This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    40 min

  6. 05/03/2024

    Empowering Leadership: Joey Lee Miranda on Fostering Diversity, Delegation, and Women's Growth in Business

    Prepare to be inspired by Joey Lee Miranda's transformative take on leadership as she joins us, bringing a treasure trove of experience from her journey through the energy and environmental fields. Joey's unique perspective illuminates the delicate balance between efficient delegation and the art of nurturing emerging talent within a team. As we unpack her transition from marketing to becoming a partner in her law firm, we're gifted with her insights on diversity's crucial role in fostering innovation and equity in the workplace. This episode is rich with strategies for motivating teams and the long-term advantages of entrusting responsibilities to others. We explore how letting go of tasks doesn't just streamline operations; it catalyzes career and personal growth for everyone involved. Joey candidly shares the significance of recognizing efforts, especially in volunteer settings like NEWIEE, and how such expressions of gratitude cement high morale and loyalty among team members. We round out our thought-provoking discussion by highlighting the groundbreaking impact women leaders have in reshaping the business landscape. From enhancing financial performance to serving as beacons for future generations, their influence is undeniable. Joey leaves us with potent advice for women blazing trails in male-dominated sectors, emphasizing the power of voice and presence. Special thanks are also given to Ellen for her remarkable work with NEWIEE's Maine chapter, exemplifying the dynamic team spirit that propels women in business to excel. This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    33 min
  7. Business Networking and Building Relationships

    03/29/2024

    Business Networking and Building Relationships

    During this episode, we will delve into the dynamic world of business networking with a trailblazer known for her ability to cultivate meaningful connections from leveraging mutual acquaintances, participating in conferences, trade shows, and local chambers. Making shares insights on how networking is about fostering genuine relationships that fuel personal and professional growth. This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    40 min
  8. Episode 19 - Familia Culture - Lusnail Haberberger

    01/09/2024

    Episode 19 - Familia Culture - Lusnail Haberberger

    Lusnail Haberberger, CEO of LUZCO Technologies, shares her pioneering journey from a solopreneur to a CEO with over 100 employees.  She also describes the  familia culture that shapes and differentiates her organization.  This episode if brought to you by MPowered, an Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company building people and teams that get things done. Sign up for the Power to Pivot newsletter at www.mpoweredus.com.

    30 min
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Pioneers at Work! is the podcast for trailblazing leaders, innovators, and visionaries who are reshaping industries and driving change. Hosted by Ellen Miller, Founder and CEO of MPowered, this series dives deep into the journeys of extraordinary individuals who are breaking barriers, redefining success, and building a better future. Through inspiring conversations, actionable insights, and transformative stories, Pioneers at Work! empowers leaders at every level to embrace their potential, lead with impact, and navigate the complexities of today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or someone aspiring to make a difference, this podcast is your guide to unlocking fresh perspectives and pioneering new paths. Join us as we explore what it means to lead boldly, innovate courageously, and create lasting change.

Information

  • Creator
    Ellen Miller
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 PIONEERS at WORK!
  • Show Website
    PIONEERS at WORK!