Join us for an empowering conversation with some of Austin’s top female business leaders as they share what it really takes to rise, thrive, and lead in today’s competitive landscape. This inspiring discussion will explore visibility, growth, resilience, and the realities of breaking systemic barriers, while highlighting authentic leadership journeys, real-world lessons on building and scaling, and guidance for the next generation of female leaders.

Deadline to register is Friday, February 6 at 3pm.

Moderator: Betsy Blanks,VP Business Operations at Austin Woman Magazine
Betsy runs the day-to-day operations of the company, implementing new processes and strategies for uplifting the voice of women across Austin.  Prior to joining Austin Woman, she ran operations for a mental health tech startup focused on providing accessible, trama-informed care to Black and Brown youth. Her career has largely been focused in the equity space, particularly in mental healthcare and education, and her work at the Center for School Behavioral Health was recognized at the national level. Betsy considers herself to officially be a Texan, as she left her small town in Kansas to attend rice University, and other than a brief stint away, has been here ever since.  When not working and attending events on behalf of Austin Woman, you can find her hanging out with her husband, toddler and dogs, hiking the Greenbelt or listening to live music. 

Panelist: Caren Kelleher, Founder and CEO of Gold Rush Vinyl/Co-Owner of the iconic Waterloo Records
Gold Rush Vinyl , Austin's record pressing plant that's recognized by Fast Company as one of the "Most Innovative Companies" in music. Prior to moving to Austin Caren led Music App Partnerships at Google Play, helping developers like Spotify, YouTube and Shazam grow their businesses on the Android platform. She was originally recruited to Google to launch Google Music after working at Songkick, Paste Magazine and as an independent band manager.  She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and has served on several nonprofit boards, including the Recording Academy. For her leadership and community impact she was named "Best CEO of 2023" by Austin Business Journal and named to Forbes Next 1000 leaders on reshaping American small business.

Panelist: Christy Dedear, Local Sales Manager at Univision Austin
Christy Dedear is the Local Sales Manager for Univision Austin, where she leads a team of five sellers delivering integrated TV, radio, and digital solutions across Univision Austin’s two radio stations, two television stations, ViX, and Univision NOW. A lifelong Austinite with more than three decades in local media, Christy began her career in 1988 with LBJ Broadcasting, advancing from receptionist into promotions, commercial production, and eventually sales at Austin’s first alternative rock station, 107.7 KNACK, an experience that helped shape her long standing success as a seller and strategist. Following KNACK’s acquisition by 101X, she built a distinguished career as a Senior Account Executive, partnering with major brands and local startups alike. Christy is known for her deep market knowledge, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to developing talent. Outside of work, she is a proud mother of three, a devoted Nani, and shares life with her partner of 16 years, along with two bonus children currently attending college in Edinburgh, Scotland.

This luncheon is sponsored by

To RSVP and purchase your ticket through the secure checkout, click on the REGISTER NOW button. 

Please note luncheon pricing has been updated to account for rising event costs.
Reminder all net proceeds continue to benefit the AWM Austin Scholarship Fund.

Board Member: $30
           Member: $40
   Non-Member: $45
          Walk-ins: $50

Late registration rate of $40 goes into effect for all attendees on Monday the week of the event. If seats are available, Non-RSVPs will also be charged $50 at the door.

*NO SHOWS WILL BE BILLED*