Changemaker Interviews
Catherine Holt: A Champion for DEI, Resilience, and Women’s Leadership
Catherine Holt has dedicated her life to creating a world where equity, belonging, and women’s leadership are not aspirations but realities. With over 35 years of experience spanning political, advocacy, and global policy initiatives, Catherine—known affectionately as Cathy—has worked tirelessly to empower women as agents of transformation, advocate for marginalized communities, and challenge systemic inequities.
A Life Shaped by Advocacy and Resilience
Cathy’s journey began at a time when advocating for women’s empowerment was both unconventional and fraught with challenges. From navigating the biases of the 1970s to chairing Planned Parenthood in the 1990s, where she faced threats and hostility, Cathy’s unwavering commitment to fairness and justice defined her path. Her early experiences as a feminist shaped her belief in living with integrity and using her privileges to uplift others.
In 2003, her advocacy took on a deeply personal dimension. When her 18-year-old daughter suffered a debilitating stroke, Cathy became a fierce advocate for equitable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Balancing her daughter’s recovery, personal grief, and professional challenges, Cathy embodied resilience, transforming adversity into a catalyst for change. “I had to fight for her and for us,” she recalls. “I had to do it alone, but I learned that strength comes from staying true to your values.”
Building Communities of Belonging
Recognizing the intersectionality of barriers to advancement, Cathy co-founded DEI Consultants, LLC in 2018 with a focus on dismantling systemic inequities. Partnering with an African American Vietnam veteran specializing in race, culture, and reconciliation, she crafted innovative approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Together, they blend their unique perspectives to address cultural, organizational, and systemic challenges.
From boardrooms to local communities, Cathy’s work emphasizes fostering environments where diverse voices can thrive. “True leadership,” she asserts, “is about creating spaces where everyone feels valued and can contribute their unique strengths.”
Mentoring Women to Lead Boldly
Cathy’s passion for empowering women transcends her professional work. As a former adjunct professor of Women and Gender Studies and a certified trainer in bystander-to-upstander programs, she equips women with the tools to confront inequities and lead with authenticity. Whether mentoring grassroots activists or coaching emerging leaders, Cathy inspires women to embrace their strengths, amplify their voices, and step into their power.
One of Cathy’s dreams is to cultivate a global movement of women leaders. “Their approach to leadership—centered on empathy, collaboration, and fairness—is what the world needs now more than ever,” she says. Through her forthcoming book on women’s leadership, she seeks to further this mission, empowering women to navigate challenges and lead transformative change.
Living with Integrity and Purpose
For Cathy, values are at the heart of every decision. Guided by principles of honesty, respect, and authenticity, she believes in honoring each person’s humanity. Her philosophy of fostering growth through self-reflection and critical thinking has been the foundation of her work. “Every voice matters,” Cathy emphasizes. “By embracing lived experiences without judgment, we can create a more inclusive, equitable future.”
Despite facing setbacks—personal and professional—Cathy views failure as an opportunity for growth. Drawing inspiration from her mother’s wisdom and Michael Jordan’s famous quote about persistence, she sees resilience as the hallmark of leadership. “It’s about getting back up, dusting yourself off, and moving forward,” she says.
A Vision for the Future
As Cathy continues to speak, write, and advocate, her vision remains clear: a world where women lead boldly, communities foster belonging, and barriers to equity are dismantled. “I will not be silenced,” she declares. “My purpose is to create spaces for marginalized voices to participate fully in the world.”
Through DEI Consultants and her personal advocacy, Cathy is not just leading change—she’s building a legacy. Her work inspires others to embrace their values, rise to challenges, and lead with authenticity and courage.
To learn more about Catherine Holt’s work or connect with her, visit Catherine-Holt.com.
Grab Cathy’s Free Leadership Reflection Guide here.
About Catherine Holt:
Cathy Holt is an elite International speaker and author promoting women as change agents. For more than 35 years she has worked energetically for gender equality and center-staging women in leadership and decision-making roles. She has mentored grassroots and community-based women throughout the globe to awaken their inner leader, speak their truth and transform themselves and their communities. Whether she is speaking at UN meetings, teaching courses on women and gender studies, advocating for women’s issues in the political arena, or connecting with women, she passionately shares her experiences, skills, and strategies of navigating the challenges of leading as women.
Connect with Cathy:
Contact: cathy@catherine-holt.com
Website: Catherine-Holt.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-holt-hts
Facebook: www.facebook.com/catherine.holt.56/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathyhts/
Website: deiconsultants.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063537702470
Changemaker Interviews
Dominika Staniewicz: Transforming Lives Through Neuroscience and Brain Health
Dominika Staniewicz is more than a speaker or trainer—she is a catalyst for transformation. With nearly two decades of experience on international stages, Dominika blends charisma, deep scientific knowledge, and actionable strategies to inspire individuals and organizations to achieve lasting change.
As a Dual Elite Neuroencoding Specialist, Corporate Trainer, and Brain Health Coach, Dominika champions neuroscience-based approaches to personal and professional growth. Her groundbreaking book, The Magic of Dreaming Big, Acting Small, and Achieving Success, became a #1 Kindle New Release, solidifying her reputation as a thought leader in the field of neuroscience and brain health
A Career Rooted in Expertise
Dominika’s journey has been one of relentless pursuit of knowledge and impact. She holds multiple degrees, including an M.S. in Sociology and dual B.A.s, and has accumulated over 5,000 hours of corporate training experience. She has collaborated with some of the world’s leading companies, including Google, Boeing, Zara, and Nielsen, providing training that fuses neuroscience with practical solutions.
As a founding member of the Neuroencoding Institute, Dominika combines her academic and professional expertise with insights gained from training under renowned figures like Dr. Daniel Amen. Her coaching techniques focus on rewiring the brain, empowering individuals to break free from limitations, and fostering sustainable growth.
Influencing Leaders and Organizations
Dominika’s influence extends beyond corporate boardrooms. She has advised global leaders, including the Polish president, and played a key role in shaping national labor negotiations. As a Shadow Cabinet Member at the prestigious Business Center Club, she provided market analyses and predictions that shaped economic and labor policies in Poland.
Her achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the esteemed Woman Entrepreneur of the Year award. Despite her impressive credentials, Dominika remains refreshingly down-to-earth, dedicated to creating real, actionable change.
Neuroscience Meets Inspiration
Dominika’s approach to coaching and training is rooted in neuroscience, offering innovative solutions to challenges like stress, burnout, and mental health issues. “The brain is an organ, and its health determines our ability to make crucial decisions,” she explains. Her work highlights how improving brain health can enhance personal and organizational outcomes, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Her passion for transformation is evident in her speaking engagements, where she has shared stages with luminaries like Les Brown, Sean Callagy, and Joseph McClendon III. Whether addressing European Union forums or corporate conferences, Dominika captivates audiences with her unique blend of energy and expertise.
Balancing Impact and Fulfillment
Beyond her professional life, Dominika is a devoted mother to twin daughters, exemplifying how success need not come at the expense of personal fulfillment. She advocates for a process-oriented approach to growth, focusing on small, sustainable changes that lead to holistic happiness and authentic management styles.
Her goal is clear: to expand her impact by training other coaches and offering more corporate programs. “Collaboration is not optional; it’s mandatory,” she says, emphasizing the importance of building teams to achieve lasting success.
A Vision for the Future
Dominika envisions a future where neuroscience becomes mainstream, transforming how individuals and organizations approach growth and productivity. By offering cutting-edge training and coaching, she aims to equip leaders with the skills to manage their brains, enhance their lives, and improve workplace outcomes without stress or burnout.
Dominika Staniewicz is redefining success—blending science, strategy, and inspiration to empower individuals and organizations alike. To learn more about her work or to connect with her, visit YourBrainCoachd.com or follow her on social media:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YourBrainCoachD
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourbraincoachd/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yourbraincoachd
- Website: https://yourbraincoachd.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominikastaniewicz/
Dominika Staniewicz is proof that with the right tools and mindset, life’s obstacles can become steppingstones to extraordinary achievements.
About Dominika:
Dominika Staniewicz is a dynamic speaker with nearly two decades of experience on international stages. A Dual Elite Neuroencoding Specialist and Brain Health Coach, she is the celebrated author of the #1 Kindle New Release, The Magic of Dreaming Big, Acting Small, and Achieving Success. A founding member of the Neuroencoding Institute, Dominika has advised leaders, including the Polish president, and shaped national labor policies. She’s trained by Dr. Daniel Amen, collaborated with top global companies like Google and Boeing, and has 5000+ hours of corporate training experience. A devoted mother of twin daughters, Dominika inspires with charisma and expertise.
Transform Your Workplace Culture with Neuroscience-Based Training: https://yourbraincoachd.com/corporate-coaching/
Changemaker Interviews
Anthony Frisina: Advocating for a More Inclusive and Accessible World
Anthony Frisina’s life is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the power of lived experiences. Born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, Anthony has never let challenges define his path. Instead, he has built a career dedicated to accessibility and inclusion, leaving an indelible mark on his community and beyond.
A Leader in Accessibility
A graduate of Mohawk College with multiple certifications, Anthony has leveraged his education and personal insights to lead initiatives that challenge perceptions and create meaningful change. He contributes his expertise as a professional at both Mohawk College and McMaster University, influencing inclusive practices within academia.
Anthony’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. As the founder of Above & Beyond, a movement that advocates for universal accessibility, Anthony is a highly sought-after speaker, consultant, TV and podcast host, and author. His biography, Above & Beyond – Anthony Frisina, chronicles his journey and is a source of inspiration for many.
Advocacy in Action
Anthony’s advocacy is rooted in the belief that attitude-based barriers are often the biggest challenges people with disabilities face. “Perception is not reality,” he explains. Through his work, Anthony hopes today’s barriers become tomorrow’s freedoms.
Anthony serves as a board member for multiple non-profit organizations, including representing the disability community on the All Abilities Allstars board, Rygiel, Hamilton Accessible Sports Council, Sport Hamilton, PATH Employment, Mohawk Sports Park, and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre as a cheerleader with children with disabilities.
Above & Beyond: A Media Platform for Change
Anthony’s foray into media began with an application to appear on Cable 14’s The Showcase. This initial opportunity grew into the creation of Above & Beyond TV, now in its sixth season. The show celebrates allyship, collaboration, and inclusion within and beyond the disability community.
Anthony also co-hosts Above & Beyond – The Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast, with his co-host Maddy Dever, where they discuss the nuances of accessibility and the steps needed to foster a more inclusive society. His media projects amplify voices from diverse backgrounds and highlight the importance of breaking down barriers.
Re-envisioning EDI
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion had always been the status quo. But what about Access, Accessibility, or even Action? Take the beginning letter of each word, Anthony reformed I.D.E.A. – Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility transforming the conversation into action and creating an I.D.E.A. of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility, being more forthright to be inclusive from the start rather than a false gratitude for what people with disabilities are given and the empowerment for what we deserve.
Recognitions and Distinctions
Anthony’s dedication to advocacy has earned him numerous accolades, including:
- The Order of Hamilton (2020)
- Alumni of Distinction (2013)
- Amity Goodwill Award (1997)
- Rick Hansen Relay Medal Bearer and Difference Maker (2011)
- Torch Bearer for the Pan Am Games (2015)
These honors reflect not only his achievements but also his unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive world.
Building a Legacy
Anthony’s mission is deeply personal: to leave behind a society that is more accessible and inclusive than the one he was born into. He envisions a world where individuals with disabilities are respected for their autonomy, agency, and dignity, and where accessibility is not just a requirement but a celebrated standard.
Since the passing of his mom in 2016, who was his biggest fan, the focus has been reinvigorated and the work he continues to do remains in her honour.
By drawing on his lived experiences and those of others, Anthony continues to grow and build initiatives that prioritize authenticity and inclusion. His work inspires individuals and organizations to go beyond compliance, fostering a world where accessibility becomes the norm.
To learn more about Anthony Frisina’s work and advocacy, visit his website or follow him on social media:
- Facebook: @AboveAndBeyond.AnthonyFrisina
- X: @Abovebeyond4u
- Instagram: @AboveAndBeyondMedia
Anthony Frisina is not just breaking barriers—he’s building bridges for future generations.
About Anthony Frisina:
Anthony Frisina was born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and has never allowed these challenges to limit his ambitions or impact. A graduate of Mohawk College with multiple certifications, Anthony has established himself as a leader in the fields of accessibility and inclusion. He continues contributing his expertise at Mohawk College and McMaster University.
Anthony is a highly sought-after speaker, consultant, TV and podcast host, and author. His dedication to advocacy is evident in his extensive volunteer work with numerous non-profit organizations and his representation of the disability community for multiple non-profit organizations, including representing the disability community on the All Abilities Allstars board, Rygiel, Hamilton Accessible Sports Council, Sport Hamilton, PATH Employment, Mohawk Sports Park, and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre as a cheerleader with children with disabilities.
Changemaker Interviews
Dr. Karen J. Taylor: Revolutionizing Physical Therapy for Runners
Dr. Karen J. Taylor is not just a physical therapist—she is a game-changer for endurance runners. As the founder of Invictus Smart Performance, a mobile physical therapy practice serving Georgia’s Clayton, Fayette, and Henry counties, Karen specializes in helping runners optimize their performance, prevent injuries, and achieve their goals. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to keep runners on their feet and moving toward success.
From Personal Passion to Professional Excellence
Inspired by her own background in high school cross-country and track and field, Karen built her career on a foundation of expertise and dedication. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Mississippi, a Master of Athletic Training from the University of Arkansas, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from South College in Knoxville, TN.
Karen’s certifications include:
- Certified Running Gait Analyst (Levels 1 & 2)
- Certified Walking Gait Analyst (Level 1)
- Certified Endurance Running Coach
- Dry Needling Specialist (Spinal Manipulation Institute)
- IASTM Practitioner (HawkGrips)
With years of experience as an athletic trainer and physical therapist in high school, collegiate, and outpatient clinical settings, Karen now focuses exclusively on endurance runners. Her expertise enables her to provide evidence-based care tailored to the unique physical demands of the sport.
Redefining Physical Therapy for Runners
At Invictus Smart Performance, Karen delivers personalized care free from the constraints of traditional insurance models. This out-of-network approach allows her to prioritize quality over quantity, offering one-on-one sessions designed to address each runner’s specific needs.
“I want to redefine what physical therapy can be for runners,” Karen explains. “It’s not just about treating injuries—it’s about empowering athletes with the knowledge and tools they need to stay healthy and perform at their best.”
Her services include running gait analysis, injury prevention strategies, and performance optimization plans. By focusing on both the physical and mental aspects of running, Karen creates a holistic care model that fosters resilience and self-belief in her clients.
A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience
Karen’s journey to becoming a physical therapist was anything but easy. Navigating the challenges of pursuing her doctorate during the COVID-19 pandemic required adaptability and determination. While her program was already hybrid with a virtual didactic portion, Karen had to adapt to gaining hands-on skills and completing clinical rotations under the strict CDC guidelines for face-to-face interactions.
This resilience was inspired in large part by her late grandmother, Elizabeth Taylor, the first Black nurse in her hometown. “She instilled in us the value of education, resilience, and self-belief,” Karen shares. One of her grandmother’s favorite sayings, “Taylor’s are smarter than the average,” is both a personal mantra and an integral part of the foundation of Invictus Smart Performance. The “Smart” in Invictus Smart Performance is both an acronym for Sports Medicine And Rehabilitation Therapy and a tribute to her grandmother’s legacy.
Addressing Industry Challenges
Karen is no stranger to the challenges of the healthcare industry. From rising deductibles to decreasing reimbursements, traditional clinics often prioritize patient volume over individualized care. Karen’s mobile practice directly addresses these issues, offering a model that emphasizes personalized attention and superior outcomes.
“Patients deserve to feel heard and supported,” Karen emphasizes. “By stepping outside the traditional clinic model, I can ensure they receive the care they need without compromise.”
Building a Community of Empowered Runners
Karen’s ultimate goal is to become the go-to provider for runners in her local community. Beyond helping individual athletes, she hopes to inspire other physical therapists to pursue their passions and elevate the standard of care across the profession.
“I want to create a space where runners feel understood and supported, whether they’re training for their first 5K or their tenth marathon,” she says. “My mission is to redefine physical therapy as a partnership focused on long-term health and performance.”
Looking Ahead
As Karen continues to grow Invictus Smart Performance, she remains dedicated to expanding her impact through education and innovation. By staying current with the latest research and refining her techniques, she ensures that every runner she works with receives the highest quality care.
To learn more about Dr. Karen J. Taylor and Invictus Smart Performance, visit www.InvictusSmartPerformance.com or follow her on Instagram:
Personal: @drkarenjtaylor
Business: @invictus.smartpt
Dr. Karen J. Taylor is transforming the world of physical therapy—one runner at a time.
About Dr. Karen J. Taylor:
Dr. Karen J. Taylor is a fitness-forward physical therapist specializing in treating endurance runners. As a Certified Running Gait Analyst (Levels 1 & 2), Certified Walking Gait Analyst (Level 1), and Certified Endurance Run Coach, her focus is on optimizing performance and preventing injuries. She is the founder of Invictus Smart Performance, a mobile physical therapy practice serving Clayton, Fayette, and Henry counties in Georgia. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Mississippi, a Master of Athletic Training from the University of Arkansas, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from South College – Knoxville.
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