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[ January 31, 2025 by Amanda Farris 0 Comments ]

Revealed – Sara Malo’s Secret Sauce To Success

Sara Malo shares her secret to success in this exclusive interview, revealing key strategies and insights behind her achievements.
The Fellowship of Penny Calling Penny

Published on: Jan 31, 2025
Updated on: Jan 31, 2025
Interview with Sara Malo

Have you ever met someone who seems to juggle everything effortlessly?

If not, prepare yourselves for a journey into the depths of intelligence and the limitless possibilities of one’s aspirations.

Meet Sara Malo – A woman of remarkable drive and determination. 

Living in a rural town in Western Massachusetts with her two awesome kids – Molly and Shane (heartbeat of her world).

Molly, at 18, is rocking her senior year of high school, while Shane, at 16, is making his mark in his junior year. 

Apart from her children, one of the things that truly lights up Sara’s world is her love for sports.

Sara herself puts it beautifully: Running and hiking are activities I absolutely adore. I have two dogs, and together we venture deep into the woods, often to catch a breathtaking sunrise. It’s a joy I cherish to the fullest.

But what sets her apart is her creative side – she’s an inspired blogger! Through her writing, she not only expresses herself but also inspires others along the way.

Sara says: “My belief in self-branding and authenticity isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a way of life for me. It’s what makes me stand out in a crowd and leaves a lasting impact on everyone I meet.

Continuing on Sara Malo’s journey, Sara’s career journey is nothing short of incredible!

Cutting teeth in the digital realm and the vibrant world of marketing events for over two decades.

She explained. ‘My expertise revolves around building relationships, driving sales, and nurturing client success.’

But here’s where it gets interesting. Sara doesn’t just stop at marketing; she’s got a whole lot more going on.

Inspired by her own experiences, she recognized the need for a supportive community that empowered women in the male-dominated field of technology.

‘The absence of a supportive community for women in tech was a glaring omission,’ recalled the founder, her voice resonating with determination. ‘We were not feminists by any means, but we recognized the need for a platform where women could uplift and inspire one another.’

And Drum Rolls, Here comes the LINKUNITE.

In 2019, alongside her visionary business partner, Amanda Farris, she co-founded LinkUnite – A Women’s Forum.

LinkUnite isn’t just a professional network. It’s a vibrant ecosystem where women could share knowledge, forge connections, and pursue their dreams with unwavering confidence. 

Both Sara and Amanda’s unwavering belief in the power of mentorship propelled her to launch a groundbreaking program that paired aspiring mentees with industry leaders.

‘Our mentorship program has been a transformative force,’ she beamed. ‘We’ve seen mentees grow in confidence, expand their professional horizons, and achieve remarkable milestones.’

“Branding the organization and gaining recognition proved to be an uphill battle,” Sara recalls. ‘We believed in our mission, and we were determined to make LinkUnite a force for good in the industry,’ she asserted.

‘What sets LinkUnite apart,’ Sara emphasized, ‘is our unwavering belief in self-branding. We encourage our members to embrace their authenticity and leverage it as a powerful tool for success.’

As the organization grew, so too did its impact. LinkUnite became a catalyst for job placement, providing opportunities for women to break into the field and advance their careers.

‘Our goal is to make a tangible difference in the lives of women,’ Sara explained. ‘By giving back to the industry, we ensure its continued growth and prosperity.’

“As President/COO of LinkUnite, I dedicated myself to creating a transformative experience for its members. From organizing  workshops to hosting networking events, and providing invaluable mentorship to aspiring professionals.

In addition to her leadership role at LinkUnite, Sara held several other prominent positions. She served as VP of Partnerships at Lead Generation World, the organization behind the prestigious Contact.io Event, AFFY Gala Event, and Elevate. Through these platforms, she played a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s landscape and connecting businesses with innovative solutions.

As the interview drew to a close, she brought up how she maintains balance in her overall life, and how it has shaped her life.

‘Finances have been a constant concern, especially as my children approach college age,’ she confided. ‘But I’ve learned the importance of budgeting, prioritizing expenses, and seeking support from my family and community.’

When asked about handling unexpected expenses during challenging times, she shared, “Unfortunately, at first, I didn’t have a system in place. As a single mom caring for a home and three vehicles, unexpected expenses always come. I have used a credit card and savings to help pay for things. I try to live within my means, but when I have unexpected expenses, I find ways to bring more money in to pay for everything. Sounds crazy, but I believe in manifestation. I’ve had some low spots where finances were a huge burden. Stressing over this wasn’t helping, so I tried to find ways to manifest change. Luckily for me, this has worked in my favor! Positivity and believing in yourself is great karma.”

To dive deeper into her budgeting journey, I asked her to share a specific example of her budgeting method, and she explained, “I use a Budget Journal. I break this down into individual weeks and by month. I try to foresee things like car insurance (paying for three cars right now) and monthly and yearly bills. I know some months I have commission dollars coming in to help offset things, and I do my best not to spend money that isn’t needed. I have tried to download different apps for financial help, but after I download them, I forget they’re there. My journal is my go-to!”

Prioritizing Expenses: Could you share an example of how you prioritise expenses during a challenging time? For instance, cutting back on eating out or finding affordable entertainment options for your children?

We definitely find ways to cut back. If I know we have some larger bills coming, especially during tax season, we try to eat our meals at home, avoid Amazon, and plan our meals. Not to venture out too much and waste gas money. This is easier to do in winter because it’s cold and the roads are lousy. We also have a beautiful lot with a fireplace we built and a finished basement, so our friends often come here, which saves money as well. My friends and I are considering rotating dinners where we each cook one night a week which I love! We then share the meal we made with the other families. This saves time and money!

Did you explore ways to reduce your fixed expenses, such as negotiating lower rates with cable or phone companies?

YES! I actually try to review our cell phone bill, Comcast cable bill, and other monthly bills that I have on auto withdrawal every 3 months. Other monthly charges the kids and I have include Apple Music, Netflix, Hulu, etc. I keep it to a minimum. These auto-withdrawal subscriptions can creep up on you fast if you are not paying attention.

How did you find affordable alternatives for things you still needed? Did you utilize coupons, shop at discount stores, or participate in community events for free entertainment?

We do a lot of volunteering in the community, so we definitely participate in free events. Paying attention to coupons or Amazon Prime Day also helps to save money. We live a fast-paced lifestyle, so coupons can be tough for us, but we pay attention to free shipping or sales our favorite stores have, especially during the holiday months.

I believe that balance is essential, both in life and in business.

Through the trials and triumphs of motherhood and entrepreneurship, the founder has gained invaluable lessons. She has discovered the power of perseverance, the importance of seeking support, and the boundless capacity of women to achieve their dreams.

As a single mother, she had always faced the daunting task of managing her finances on a single income.

Years ago, an unexpected divorce forced her to tap into her retirement savings, leaving her with a significant financial burden. Undeterred, she pivoted her career, taking on multiple jobs and working tirelessly to provide for her two children.

As Sara navigated the challenges of being a single parent and a breadwinner, she discovered a hidden strength within herself. 

“I became more frugal, cutting back on unnecessary expenses and actively seeking ways to maximize my income,” Sara recounts. 

Maximizing Income: You mentioned actively seeking ways to increase your income. Did you take on freelance work, learn new skills, or find other creative ways to boost your income streams?

I am always seeking ways to increase my income. A few years back, I had an affiliate program I was using where I drove some sales. I have a large network, being in the industry for 20+ years, so leaning on colleagues for freelance work or building someone’s website who is local are always things I am up for doing. My goal someday would be to speak publicly and continue to help women grow their businesses, especially Single Moms!

Through her resilience and determination, Sara slowly began to rebuild her financial security. She started a small investment portfolio, investing any extra funds she could spare.

Over time, Sara’s financial progress filled her with pride. She had faced adversity head-on and emerged as a financially responsible and independent woman. Despite the financial setbacks she had encountered, she remained optimistic about her future.

Being a single mother has taught me the true meaning of perseverance,’ Sara shared in the interview. ‘I’ve learned that with hard work and a positive attitude, anything is possible.’

Being a single mom has its challenges,’ Sara admits, ‘but it has also taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be both a successful businesswoman and a loving mother.’

When asking about Retirement and the plan ahead, she excitedly says, ‘As a single parent, we do whatever it takes to make things work one day at a time,’Retirement may not be a typical goal for someone in my situation, but I am determined to create a stable financial foundation for myself and my children.’

For Sara, financial success was not just about numbers in a bank account. It was about providing a secure and fulfilling life for her family. She taught her children the value of hard work and the importance of managing money wisely.

To other women and moms who were also juggling multiple responsibilities, Sara offered words of encouragement. ‘Take one day at a time,’ she advised. ‘Be kind to yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Remember, you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to.’

As Sara reminisced about the time gone by, she spoke softly, reflecting on her incredible journey. She realized that she had not only forged a successful career but had also left behind a legacy of empowerment for women in technology. 

Her unwavering spirit and strong belief in the power of connection had inspired countless others to chase their dreams and leave a meaningful mark on the world.

Her story is a reminder that diving into life with excitement and a “go-getter” attitude can lead to a fulfilling journey packed with happiness and success.

Follow Sara Malo here to stay updated on her incredible work, and don’t forget to share one uplifting takeaway from the interview. Let’s show our support!

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[ January 21, 2025 by Amanda Farris 0 Comments ]

Meet Amanda Farris

We were lucky to catch up with Amanda Farris recently and have shared our conversation below.

Amanda, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

Finding my purpose has been about connecting deeply with the world around me and striving to make a positive impact. I believe that small gestures, like a simple smile, can start a chain reaction of kindness and positivity. This idea is at the heart of LinkUnite, where we aim to foster an environment filled with support, growth, and creativity. We want our organization to be a place where positivity flows freely from every member and leader.

I am driven by the belief that everyone has untapped potential. It’s about helping to reveal that potential, allowing people to grow and illuminate their own paths. At LinkUnite, we support each other and celebrate our successes together. It’s about creating a community where everyone feels they have someone to back them up and shine a light on their strengths, especially during challenging times. This approach is not just about personal fulfillment but about building a supportive and inspiring community.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

At the heart of what I do, both personally and professionally, is a dedication to fostering positivity and community. I lead LinkUnite with my partner Sara Malo, an organization committed to supporting individuals in their personal and professional growth. We focus on creating an environment where everyone can thrive, fostering creativity, love, and connectivity. This ethos permeates every aspect of our activities, from small gatherings to large-scale events.

What excites me most about our work is seeing the tangible impact of our community. When individuals feel supported and valued, they achieve incredible things, and that’s a daily inspiration. Our members become leaders, not only within our community but also in their respective fields, spreading the principles of support and positivity wherever they go.

Regarding new developments, we are currently expanding our reach by hosting more frequent virtual meetings and live events, making our resources more accessible to a broader audience. We’re also excited about upcoming collaborative projects that blend creativity with community support, including new workshops and monthly series of monthly meetups that explore the intersection of creativity and personal development.

Our brand is about more than just events and meetings; it’s about building a legacy of empowerment and connection. It’s for anyone eager to make a difference in their life and the lives of others. We’re here to light that path, and we invite everyone to join us in this journey of growth and positivity.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Reflecting on my journey, three things have been particularly impactful: my curiosity, my efforts in building community, and my exploration of how spiritual values can coexist with business goals.

My curiosity has always driven me to keep learning and evolving. It’s about constantly questioning and adapting, which has helped me stay flexible and open to new possibilities. Building a strong community has also been essential. It’s not just about gathering people—it’s about creating a supportive space where everyone feels connected and valued. This sense of community has enriched my life immensely and has been a cornerstone of my work.

Blending the spiritual with the practical aspects of business has helped me create a more holistic approach to entrepreneurship. It’s about ensuring that our work is meaningful and that it respects and reflects our deeper values. Alan Watts captured this beautifully when he said, “This is the real secret of life—to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play.” This perspective has influenced how I approach my work, infusing it with joy and turning professional pursuits into a form of play.

For those starting their own paths, remember to stay grounded and supportive. Keep in touch with where you came from and always carry a sense of gratitude for what you have. These attitudes will help you build strong relationships and a supportive network that will be invaluable as you move forward.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

If you’re interested in partnering with LinkUnite, there are several ways we can work together to promote community, support, and growth, and we’re always open to new ideas as well:

Corporate Partnerships: We welcome organizations eager to support our mission, whether through resource contributions to our events, both online and in-person, or by co-hosting events to enhance our impact.

Event Support: We’re looking for partners to help enrich our diverse events through logistical, financial, or content support. Contributions could include providing speakers, content, or funding.

Mentorship Program: There’s an opportunity for your experienced leaders to guide emerging professionals by joining our mentorship program, aligning with your corporate social responsibility goals.

Internship Opportunities through the LINK Program: Partnering for internships allows your organization to bring fresh perspectives to your team while supporting the educational and professional development of our members.

Content Collaboration: We’re also keen to collaborate on creating digital and in-person content, such as webinar series, workshops, or articles, which can foster knowledge sharing and innovation.

We value collaboration and are open to exploring other ways to work together that may not be listed here. If you have ideas or want to discuss potential partnerships, please reach out. Working together, we can make a meaningful impact in the community and beyond.

Contact Info:

Read More Here:

https://boldjourney.com/meet-amanda-farris/

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[ December 30, 2024 by Amanda Farris 0 Comments ]

LinkUnite Wraps Up a Monumental 2024: Bigger Plans Ahead for 2025

LinkUnite Wraps Up a Monumental 2024: Bigger Plans Ahead for 2025

Empowering Women, Strengthening Partnerships, and Building a Brighter Future

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Dec. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As 2024 comes to a close, LinkUnite is proud to reflect on another year of growth and unwavering support for its members and partners. From dynamic mentorship programs to exclusive events and meaningful collaborations, LinkUnite continues to be a driving force in championing women in business.

We’re already buzzing about 2025! We’re rolling out an enhanced membership package packed with even more value and opportunities. And get ready for LinkUnite V – it’s shaping up to be our most epic event yet. We’ll spill the details on the location and dates soon, and trust us, it’s going to be unforgettable.

“2024 was a testament to the power of connection, collaboration, and community,” said Amanda Farris, CEO of LinkUnite. “We’ve seen women rise to new heights, and collaborate on new opportunities, supported by a network that believes in their potential. In 2025, we’re taking it even further – bigger events, stronger partnerships, and more opportunities for our members to thrive and grow their network.”

“We are especially grateful for the incredible partnership we’ve built with IntegriShield this year,” said Sara Malo, President of LinkUnite. “Their support, and the dedication of Gayla Huber and Ashleigh Arnaud, has played a vital role in our success. It’s partnerships like these that remind us of the strength and potential of our growing network. We are excited to continue building on these connections as we head into 2025.”

A special moment in LinkUnite’s journey will take place at Lead Generation World on Monday, January 6, 2025, when Gayla Huber will officially pass the torch as the First Lady of LinkUnite. This transition celebrates Gayla’s monumental impact and her role as a driving force in our mission. We’ll also welcome the next First Lady of LinkUnite, kicking off a new chapter that’s all about strength, legacy, and forward momentum. Learn more about the First Lady of LinkUnite.

Interested in joining our network of women leaders and innovators? Membership for 2025 is now open. Apply here and find out more.

Our success this year couldn’t have happened without our corporate members and partners. Their support has been a game changer, opening new doors and helping our community thrive. Dive into more about our corporate partners and see how you can connect: Learn more here.

“As 2025 nears, we’re more committed than ever to our work and mission. With new perks, bigger events, and stronger partnerships, we’re all set to take things to the next level. Stay tuned!”

About IntegriShield

Designed to protect companies’ reputations and brand recognition, IntegriShield monitors, tracks and enforces all applicable regulations to assure that our clients engage in consistent and compliant marketing activities. Located in Kansas City, IntegriShield launched in 2012 to provide cutting-edge compliance and remediation services to a diverse array of businesses. Since then, the IntegriShield team has been evolving and honing our technology to simplify workflow, streamline remediation, and track brand compliance across the web, through email monitor servicing, and audio monitoring. For more information about IntegriShield please visit their website here.

About LinkUnite

LinkUnite is an organization dedicated to empowering women in the business world through mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. With a focus on creating meaningful connections and fostering career growth, LinkUnite is committed to providing resources and support to help women thrive in their personal and professional lives. For more information about the LinkUnite mentorship program or to learn how to get involved, please visit our website here.

For media inquiries or more information on LinkUnite’s 2025 membership and upcoming events, please contact:

Amanda Farris

Founder & CEO – LinkUnite

Email: Amanda@linkinite.live

Website: www.linkunite.live

Sara Malo

President & COO – LinkUnite

Email: Sara@linkinite.live

Website: www.linkunite.live

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/linkunite-wraps-up-a-monumental-2024-bigger-plans-ahead-for-2025-302338553.html

SOURCE LinkUnite, LLC

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[ November 20, 2024 by Amanda Farris 0 Comments ]

Lessons from Digital Marketing Career Missteps

https://www.bdwjb.com/s2e4-lessons-from-career-missteps-sara-malo-taryn-stoddard-and-kali-ashford-speak-out/

Today, we’re breaking new ground with not one, but three incredible guests – Taryn Stoddard, Kali Ashford, and Sara Malo.

All trailblazers in their own right, they share their unique experiences and insights from navigating the challenging waters of male-dominated industries.

This episode explores the spectrum of their professional journeys.

We’ll touch on the importance of boundaries, the evolving dynamics of gender roles in the workplace, and how collective support has helped these women carve out spaces of their own.

Plus, we’ll discuss innovative initiatives like LinkUnite, a community that aims to elevate female representation in the performance marketing industry.

Join host Jim Banks as he reflects on his own career challenges, while engaging with our guests about the lessons they’ve learned from their past, the technical hurdles they’ve overcome, and their visions for a more inclusive future.

Whether you’re curious about the nuances of urban networking, keen on understanding the balance between chivalry and modern professional conduct, or looking for inspiration on supporting young talent, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

So, let’s get into it.

 

I have one small favour to ask, would you please visit this link and follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on.

If you prefer video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube and subscribe to receive notifications for future episodes.

Important Notes

This is Digital Marketing Stories on Bad Decisions with Jim Banks, the weekly podcast for digital marketers who want to learn from the best.

New episodes are released every Wednesday at 2PM GMT where you’ll get digital marketing stories and anecdotes along with bad decisions and success stories from digital marketing guests who’ve been there and done that in many of the disciplines that make up the discipline of digital marketing.

The podcast has been been powered by Captivate and all the ums, and ers have been removed using Descript to make your listening more enjoyable.

Some of the snappy titles, introductions, transcripts were created using AI Magic via Castmagic

Disclaimer: some of the links on the show notes of my podcast are affiliate links.

If you click and buy from any of these links, I may receive a commission as a result of your action.

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[ October 10, 2024 by Amanda Farris 0 Comments ]

LinkUnite Mentorship Program Celebrates Expansion with Several New Mentor-Mentee Pairings and Internship Launches

LinkUnite Mentorship Program Celebrates Expansion with Several New Mentor-Mentee Pairings and Internship Launches

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — LinkUnite is proud to announce the continued growth of its mentorship program with the introduction of several new mentor-mentee pairings. This initiative, designed to foster career growth, skill development, and community building among professionals, has now expanded to include individuals from all tiers of the industry. With a range of expertise and backgrounds represented, the program is providing unparalleled opportunities for professionals to collaborate, learn, and thrive.

LinkUnite’s mentorship program pairs seasoned leaders with rising stars, fostering personal and professional development through tailored guidance and support. The program’s goal is to create a vibrant, inclusive community where knowledge sharing and career advancement go hand in hand. In addition to the mentorship pairings, LinkUnite has launched a new internship program, providing hands-on experience to the next generation of industry talent. Interns are given the opportunity to work alongside professionals in their desired fields, gaining the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

“As our mentorship program continues to grow, we are thrilled to see the impact it is having on both mentors and mentees,” said Sara Malo, President/COO of LinkUnite. “With the addition of our new internship initiative, we’re ensuring that younger generations across all levels of experience can find meaningful opportunities to develop their careers.”

“Being a senior in college now, I feel much more confident in myself to be able to manage my time, collaborate with peers, and create the most effective marketing for customers,” said Jonathan Murphy, LinkUnite Intern at IntegriShield. “This has created a great foundation for skills that are extremely important for success in the future!”

“Jon was a huge help with our social media marketing and blogs,” said Ashleigh Arnaud, Vice President of IntegriShield. “He brought a lot of creativity to the table and was really thorough with researching, which made our posts much more engaging. He was great at meeting deadlines and his attention to detail helped make our blogs super informative and well-organized.”

The newest mentor-mentee pairings reflect the diversity and commitment of the LinkUnite community. Each pairing represents a unique journey, where professionals from various sectors of the industry are able to collaborate, support each other, and work toward shared goals.

About IntegriShield

Designed to protect companies’ reputations and brand recognition, IntegriShield monitors, tracks and enforces all applicable regulations to assure that our clients engage in consistent and compliant marketing activities. Located in Kansas City, IntegriShield launched in 2012 to provide cutting-edge compliance and remediation services to a diverse array of businesses. Since then, the IntegriShield team has been evolving and honing our technology to simplify workflow, streamline remediation, and track brand compliance across the web, through email monitor servicing, and audio monitoring. For more information about IntegriShield please visit their website here.

About LinkUnite

LinkUnite is an organization dedicated to empowering women in the business world through mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. With a focus on creating meaningful connections and fostering career growth, LinkUnite is committed to providing resources and support to help women thrive in their personal and professional lives. For more information about the LinkUnite mentorship program or to learn how to get involved, please visit our website here.

Stay connected and follow LinkUnite events here. Subscribe to our YouTube and follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date!

For further information, please contact:

Amanda Farris

Founder & CEO – LinkUnite

Email: Amanda@linkinite.live

Website: www.linkunite.live

Sara Malo

President & COO – LinkUnite

Website: www.linkunite.live

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/linkunite-mentorship-program-celebrates-expansion-with-several-new-mentor-mentee-pairings-and-internship-launches-302272249.html

SOURCE LinkUnite, LLC

News
[ September 11, 2024 by Amanda Farris 0 Comments ]

Lead Prosper Proudly Participates in LinkUnite Round Table at Contact.io

 

Lead Prosper Proudly Participates in LinkUnite Round Table at Contact.io

1 min read
Lead Prosper is grateful to have recently participated in a round table event organized by LinkUnite, a network committed to supporting women in marketing. The event brought together women from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences, offer support, and learn from one another at Contact.io in Denver, Colorado.

Jackie Akey Lead Prosper's Head of Customer Success

Jackie Akey, Lead Prosper’s Head of Customer Success, led a discussion focused on the theme of “Resiliency.” During the session, women shared personal stories of overcoming obstacles, handling crises, and navigating uncertainty in both their personal and professional lives. These candid conversations encouraged openness and fostered a supportive environment where everyone felt empowered to speak up and connect.

Jackie Akey Lead Prosper's Head of Customer Success

The round table was more than just a discussion—it became a platform for meaningful collaboration. Women learned from one another, shared valuable insights, and found common ground through their experiences. This exchange of ideas not only created a sense of community but also led to personal and professional growth for all involved.

Lead Prosper is proud to have been part of such a transformative experience and remains committed to supporting women in marketing and lead generation. We look forward to continuing our partnership with LinkUnite and participating in future events that foster growth, connection, and empowerment.

https://leadprosper.io/news/lead-prosper-proudly-participates-in-linkunite-round-table-at-contact-io