What if the path to historic leadership isn't about fitting in, but about being so rooted in who you are that you become a force for change?
In this episode of Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors, host Erica Rooney sits down with her friend, Heather Gray, the newly appointed VP and GM of Capitol Broadcasting Company's WRAL-TV and Fox 50. In a historic move, Heather is the first woman and the first person ever to unify the station's broadcast and digital platforms under a single leadership role.
Join them as they discuss Heather's journey through a male-dominated industry, the challenges and unexpected perks of motherhood in a 24/7 news cycle, and the critical importance of curiosity and self-worth in forging your own path to the top.
Inside the Episode:
- Making History: Heather shares what it feels like to be the first woman in a groundbreaking leadership role and the "mantle of responsibility" she feels to the women who follow her.
- Motherhood and Media: A candid conversation about navigating career momentum while raising a family in an industry built on demanding, non-traditional hours.
- The Power of Being "Different": Heather's insights on valuing her unique career path, which was not the "same as what came before," and how this difference became her greatest asset.
- You Are the Value: Heather's journey to becoming "so rooted in who I am" and why she no longer feels the need to prove her worth in the room.
- Raising Your Hand: The core value of curiosity and how asking questions—even when they're not well-received—has been a consistent track record of success.
- The Importance of Local News: A deep dive into why local journalism is a critical source of verified information and how it's adapting to a complex, connected world.
- On Mentorship: The story of a brave colleague who asked Heather to be her mentor and why taking on this role felt like a natural call to action.
If you're looking for inspiration to break through your own glass ceilings by fully owning your story and your unique path, this episode is a powerful guide.
🔗 Resources:
- Connect with Heather Gray and Erica Rooney on LinkedIn.
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