An Interview with Katrina McGhee
Photos courtesy of Umoja Turner
Throughout history, women have often looked to other women they look up to in an effort to model themselves after that person/those people. As of right now, popular culture is littered with women who claim to be the saving grace for their fellow femmes. With a rather large amount of women attempting to be the feminist figure that society needs, it is important that this generation seeks role models with merit, grace, and representation. The youth of today deserve to look up to someone who will not look down upon them with indignity or judgement, rather those who illuminate the way should cast a brilliant of light of charity and goodwill.
Katrina McGhee embodies all the qualities that a female role model should have. She is not the overexposed pop star that we see too often, but rather is the woman beside other powerful women. McGhee has dedicated her entire livelihood to making women feel empowered and able to recognize their own personal abilities. McGhee equips those with the tools necessary to see one’s capability and act upon it. Katrina McGhee is the powerhouse beside other female powerhouses.
Katrina has built up her resume as the former EVP & CMO of Komen and was the Director of Marketing at American Heart Association. She was at the top of the corporate world for 20 years, exploring the nonprofit industrial complex and, in the process, understanding her own complexities. After those 20 years, she left the nonprofit and corporate world to dedicate her life to empowering others.
And, with her new course, “Be Bold. Be Brilliant. Be YOU.” recently launching, she is continuing to blaze a trail of female empowerment today.
Free to Dream had the opportunity to talk to Ms. McGhee about her future endeavors and how we can empower ourselves.
What Inspired You to Create the 100-Mile Challenge?
The 100-Mile Challenge began as the brainchild of one of our Loving on Me tribe members, Torie Miles. She was looking for a way to boost her fitness efforts, so she challenged me and a few of her friends to join her in trying to walk 100 miles in a month. There were only a few of us that first year, but it was so much fun we decided to make it an annual event. Now in its third year hundreds of people from around the country have joined the fun, as a great way to get off the couch and get moving.
How do You Stay Motivated? (On the challenge)
Everyone in the challenge encourages each other. We have an awesome Facebook event where we post our progress and celebrate each other’s successes. The best part of the challenge is that no one has to do it alone.
Can you Tell Us What Someone Can Expect When Enrolling in the Academy?
The Loving on Me Academy was designed for women leaders who are passionate about making a difference. Our goal is to equip you with the skills you need to lead, inspire and succeed with excellence. When you enroll in one of our courses you’re guaranteed three things. First, every course includes both principles and practical application. We provide information you can use right now to immediately amplify your impact. Second, our courses are content rich but concise. We know you’re super busy, so we create videos that are long enough to deliver valuable information but short enough to hold your attention. Finally, we continue to provide support long after your course is finished. When you enroll in Loving on Me Academy you become part of a tribe of empowered women who empower others. Through our social communities, blog, and workshops we continue to offer learning and networking opportunities to support you on your journey.
What is the Most Rewarding Part About the Work You Do?
For the last two decades I’ve been passionate about mentoring and promoting women leaders. I get so excited to see smart, ambitious young women achieve their career goals while making a difference in our world. The most rewarding part of my work is to be living my dream while helping someone else achieve theirs.
How do You Feel Your Personal Growth as a Person Has Affected Your Career Decisions?
My career path has always been driven by both personal and professional growth. As my thinking evolves on issues such as balance, success, and fulfillment, the ideals I try to embody as a part of my life’s work also change. The wonderful thing is as our thinking shifts so too does our perception of the opportunities around us. It’s amazing how life serves up new possibilities in every season.
If You Could Say Something to Yourself 10 Years Ago, What Would You Say to Your Past Self?
Trust your gut. Follow your passions, and your purpose will be revealed. Don’t worry so much about what you’re supposed to be doing. Just work on what’s in front of you, and be yourself. You are Enough.
What Can High School to College Aged-Students Do Now in Order to Build Both Themselves and Their Career?
First and foremost I’d say get to know the real you. Explore your interests, try new things so that you identify hidden talents, and most importantly pay attention to what sparks your heart. Read about the lives of those you admire – both the good moments and the struggles, and identify people a little further along the journey that you can learn from. They can become wonderful mentors in discovering the path that is right for you.
Do you have any advice for our followers?
Make up your mind to pursue the life you most want to live. Be clear about your priorities in every season. If you’re not sure what yours are take our free course – 5 Steps to Get in the Driver’s Seat of Your Life – and discover what’s most important to you, and how to achieve it.
