Top 5 Women in Business: Insights from Inspiring Speakers

In the world of business, women are leading the way, breaking barriers, and inspiring others to do the same. These five outstanding speakers—Theresa Payton, Henna Pryor, Denise Hamilton, Colette Carlson, and Jess Ekstrom—have built impactful careers and provide powerful lessons for aspiring and established professionals alike. Let’s take a closer look at their journeys and the key takeaways from their insights.


Theresa Payton: A Trailblazer in Cybersecurity

Bio: As the first female White House Chief Information Officer and a leading cybersecurity expert, Theresa Payton is a pioneer in her field. She’s the CEO of Fortalice Solutions and a bestselling author dedicated to protecting businesses and individuals from cyber threats.

Key Takeaways:

  • Embrace technology as a tool for empowerment, not fear.
  • Proactively manage risks by staying informed and prepared.
  • Leadership is about making confident decisions, even in uncertain times.

Henna Pryor: Elevating Performance with Humor and Authenticity

Bio: Henna Pryor is an executive coach, keynote speaker, and workplace strategist known for her ability to blend humor with actionable advice. She helps professionals overcome self-doubt and unlock their potential through high-performance strategies.

Key Takeaways:

  • Confidence is built through preparation and self-awareness.
  • Leverage humor to create connection and defuse tension.
  • Growth happens outside of your comfort zone—embrace discomfort as part of success.

Denise Hamilton: Championing Diversity and Inclusion

Bio: Denise Hamilton is the founder of WatchHerWork, a multimedia platform that connects women with the resources they need to thrive. As a speaker and advocate, she’s committed to fostering diversity and creating equitable workplaces.

Key Takeaways:

  • Representation matters—seek opportunities to amplify underrepresented voices.
  • Collaboration and mentorship are critical for long-term success.
  • Authentic leadership stems from embracing your unique perspective.

Colette Carlson: Mastering the Art of Connection

Bio: Colette Carlson is a human behavior expert and motivational speaker who helps individuals and organizations improve communication, reduce stress, and build genuine relationships. Her humorous and relatable approach makes her a favorite among business audiences.

Key Takeaways:

  • Meaningful connections drive business success—prioritize relationships.
  • Communication is about listening as much as speaking.
  • Self-care is not selfish—it’s essential for sustainable success.

Jess Ekstrom: Inspiring Purpose and Creativity

Bio: Jess Ekstrom is the founder of Headbands of Hope, a social enterprise that has donated millions of headbands to children with illnesses. As an author and speaker, she encourages others to find purpose and creativity in their work.

Key Takeaways:

  • Purpose-driven work is not only fulfilling but also impactful.
  • Creativity flourishes when you’re willing to take risks and embrace failure.
  • Give back to your community—it’s a key to meaningful success.

Final Thoughts

These five women have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also used their experiences to inspire and empower others. Their insights remind us that success in business is about resilience, authenticity, and a commitment to making a difference.