How Identity Has Influenced a Managing Partner At Zepol Media Partners' Career
Early in the career, the managing partner experienced having their ideas "tossed because of who" they were, a frustration that fueled a commitment to assertiveness. This experience informs their current leadership style, focusing on championing others' ideas and creating an "equitable workplace for everybody," leveraging their identity to foster inclusivity.
Executive/Leadership, Overcoming Challenges, Workplace Challenges, Resilience, Mentorship
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
MaryAnne Talbott
Managing Partner
Zepol Media Partners, LLC
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
none
Creative Writing, Journalism, Film, Media Arts, Visual Arts
Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Creative
Honors Student, Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. MaryAnne's early career experience as the highest ranking woman in a newsroom, facing challenges such as having her ideas overlooked due to her gender.
2. Her evolution from feeling frustrated by having her ideas dismissed to becoming more assertive and vocal in advocating for herself.
3. Her commitment to using her experiences to champion others and create a more equitable and welcoming workplace for everyone, regardless of their background or identity
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
When I was 27 years old, I was the highest-ranking woman in the newsroom. I would go to meetings and often be the only woman there, or the youngest person in the room.
It's interesting to have your ideas talked over, and frustrating to have them dismissed because of who you are. I think that frustration was annoying. As I got older, I became more assertive and better able to make my point.
What's helped me is that I carry that experience with me. So when I'm working with people whose identities might put them at a disadvantage, I try hard to champion their ideas, amplify their voices, and ensure the workplace is equitable for everyone there.
I believe you can leverage your own identity to make the entire workplace more welcoming and equitable. And that's what I hope for everybody.
Advizer Personal Links
zepolmedia.com, alamosacitizen.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryanne-talbott